EP3491846B1 - Hearing aid and hearing aid device - Google Patents

Hearing aid and hearing aid device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP3491846B1
EP3491846B1 EP17719511.2A EP17719511A EP3491846B1 EP 3491846 B1 EP3491846 B1 EP 3491846B1 EP 17719511 A EP17719511 A EP 17719511A EP 3491846 B1 EP3491846 B1 EP 3491846B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
hearing aid
housing
antenna element
antenna
hearing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP17719511.2A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP3491846A1 (en
Inventor
Hans Adel
Birgit KÜFNER-SCHWERDTNER
Jürgen Reithinger
Benjamin Schmidt
Erwin Singer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Sivantos Pte Ltd
Original Assignee
Sivantos Pte Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sivantos Pte Ltd filed Critical Sivantos Pte Ltd
Publication of EP3491846A1 publication Critical patent/EP3491846A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3491846B1 publication Critical patent/EP3491846B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/55—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using an external connection, either wireless or wired
    • H04R25/554—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using an external connection, either wireless or wired using a wireless connection, e.g. between microphone and amplifier or using Tcoils
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/60—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles
    • H04R25/602—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles of batteries
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/65—Housing parts, e.g. shells, tips or moulds, or their manufacture
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2225/51—Aspects of antennas or their circuitry in or for hearing aids
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2460/00—Details of hearing devices, i.e. of ear- or headphones covered by H04R1/10 or H04R5/033 but not provided for in any of their subgroups, or of hearing aids covered by H04R25/00 but not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2460/17—Hearing device specific tools used for storing or handling hearing devices or parts thereof, e.g. placement in the ear, replacement of cerumen barriers, repair, cleaning hearing devices

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a hearing aid, in particular an in-the-ear hearing device, with a housing with a transmitting and / or receiving unit for electromagnetic waves arranged therein, which is coupled to an antenna element.
  • the invention further relates to a binaural hearing aid device in particular with two such hearing aids.
  • Hearing aids are portable hearing aids that are used to care for hearing impaired or hearing impaired people.
  • different types of hearing aids such as behind-the-ear hearing aids (BTE) and hearing aids with an external handset (RIC: receiver in the canal) and in-the-ear hearing aids (ITE) are available
  • BTE behind-the-ear hearing aids
  • RIC receiver in the canal
  • ITE in-the-ear hearing aids
  • Example also provided concha hearing aids or channel hearing aids (ITE: In-The-Ear, CIC: Completely-In-Channel, IIC: Invisible-In-The-Channel).
  • the hearing aids listed by way of example are worn on the outer ear or in the auditory canal of a hearing aid user.
  • Bone conduction hearing aids, implantable or vibrotactile hearing aids are also available on the market. The damaged hearing is stimulated either mechanically or electrically.
  • Such hearing aids or hearing aids basically have an input transducer, an amplifier and an output transducer as essential (hearing aid) components.
  • the input transducer is usually an acoustoelectric transducer, such as a microphone, and / or an electromagnetic receiver, for example an induction coil or a (radio frequency, RF) antenna.
  • the output transducer is mostly an electro-acoustic transducer, for example a miniature loudspeaker (handset), or an electromechanical one Transducers, such as a bone conduction receiver, realized.
  • the amplifier is usually integrated in a signal processing device. Power is usually supplied by a battery or a rechargeable battery.
  • Hearing aids of this type also have, for example, an antenna element as an RF antenna, by means of which the hearing aid can be coupled in terms of signal technology, for example to an operating element (remote control) and / or to a further hearing aid.
  • the same antenna element is used for sending and receiving data for reasons of space.
  • a so-called binaural hearing aid device two such hearing aids or hearing aid devices are worn by a user, a wireless signal connection being established between the antenna elements of the hearing aids during operation.
  • wireless data possibly also large amounts of data, are exchanged or transmitted between the hearing aid on the right and left ear.
  • the exchanged data and information enable the hearing aids to be adapted particularly effectively to a respective acoustic situation. In particular, this enables a particularly authentic surround sound for the user and improves speech understanding, even in noisy environments.
  • Hearing aids are preferably designed to be particularly space-saving and compact, so that they can be worn visually as inconspicuously by a hearing aid user.
  • increasingly smaller hearing aids are produced which have an increasingly higher wearing comfort and are therefore hardly perceived by a user when worn on or in an ear.
  • ITE hearing aids which are usually custom-made and deep in an auditory canal or ear canal of the hearing aid user sit in.
  • Such hearing aids are preferably of such a compact design that they are arranged in the ear canal in an essentially invisible manner when worn.
  • grip elements in the form of pull-out threads or brackets are conceivable, which are firmly coupled to the housing of the hearing aid and are easily grasped by a hearing aid user.
  • grip elements are generally arranged on a housing surface on the outside, such as a faceplate, of the housing when it is in the wearing state, so that they can be easily gripped by a hearing aid user if required.
  • the pull-out threads and stirrups usually only serve the purpose of simply pulling the ITE hearing aid out of the ear.
  • an ITE hearing aid device with a housing with a transmitting and receiving unit arranged therein.
  • the transmitting and receiving unit is coupled to an antenna element which is at least partially integrated in a handle element of the housing.
  • a BTE hearing aid with a housing part arranged in the ear.
  • the housing part worn in the ear in this case has an antenna element which at least partially protrudes from the auditory canal and is combined, for example, with a pull-out thread as the grip element.
  • the US 2010/0020994 A1 describes an ITE hearing aid device with an antenna element integrated in a grip element for wireless signal communication.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a particularly suitable hearing aid.
  • the invention is also based on the object of specifying a hearing aid device equipped with two hearing aid devices of this type.
  • the object is achieved according to the invention with the features of claim 1 and with regard to the hearing aid device with the features of claim 4.
  • Advantageous refinements and developments are the subject of the respective subclaims.
  • the hearing aid according to the invention is in particular as an in-the-ear hearing aid (ITE hearing aid), for example as a channel hearing aid (ITE: In-The-Ear, CIC: Completely-In-Channel, IIC: Invisible-In-The- Channel).
  • ITE hearing aid for example as a channel hearing aid (ITE: In-The-Ear, CIC: Completely-In-Channel, IIC: Invisible-In-The- Channel).
  • ITE In-The-Ear
  • CIC Completely-In-Channel
  • IIC Invisible-In-The- Channel
  • the hearing aid also referred to below as the hearing aid, has a shell-like housing for accommodating electrical and electronic hearing aid components.
  • the hearing aid components here comprise a transmitting and / or receiving unit for electromagnetic waves.
  • electromagnetic waves are to be understood in particular as radio signals, also referred to as RF signals.
  • the transmitting and / or receiving unit is assigned an antenna element for sending and / or receiving the RF signals, this means that the transmitting and / or receiving unit is coupled to the antenna element at least in terms of signal technology.
  • a handle element (handle part) is arranged on a housing surface of the housing that faces outwards when in a worn state, for example on a faceplate (cover, upper shell) that closes the housing, which can be easily gripped by a hearing aid user when in the worn state.
  • the grip element is suitably mechanically fixedly coupled to the housing and / or the housing surface. With the handle element, the hearing aid can thus be easily pulled out or removed in the wearing state.
  • the antenna element is at least partially integrated into the handle element. Due to the functional integration of the antenna element and the grip element, a particularly suitable hearing aid device is realized. Furthermore, due to the at least partial arrangement of the antenna element outside of the case their performance and effectiveness improved.
  • the grip element is therefore not only used to pull the hearing aid device out or out of an auditory canal or ear canal, but also has a further function with regard to the operation of the hearing aid device due to the integrated antenna element.
  • the antenna element is at least partially arranged outside the housing, thereby saving installation space inside the housing. This makes it possible to make the hearing aid more compact, which on the one hand increases the wearing comfort of the hearing aid.
  • the hearing aid can thus be used particularly optically inconspicuously within an ear canal (auditory canal).
  • the housing of the hearing aid is preferably individually adapted to the ear canal or the auditory canal of the (hearing aid) user.
  • the housing is custom-made for the respective user. Since the antenna element is at least partially arranged outside the housing, design restrictions of the antenna element compared to a complete arrangement of the antenna element within the housing are avoided. As a result, this is advantageously transferred to additional freedom in the design and implementation of the antenna element, so that a comparatively large number of antenna structures is made possible for the hearing aid device. Furthermore, greater freedom with regard to dimensioning the antenna length is thus made possible.
  • the hearing aid comprises, as hearing aid components, for example an input converter and an amplifier as a signal processing device and an output converter.
  • the transmitter and / or receiver unit is functionally suitable and set up for generating and / or evaluating RF signals that can be sent or received by means of the antenna element.
  • the transmitting and / or receiving unit has, for example, electronic components for adapting to the antenna element, for example for adapting the power or a resistance adjustment.
  • the transmitting and / or receiving unit and the antenna element are preferably designed together as a transceiver, that is to say as a transceiver or a transceiver, of the hearing aid, for the wireless transmission and reception of (radio) signals and data.
  • the transmission range of the transceiver unit is 10 m, for example.
  • a range is to be understood here in particular as the signal range, that is to say a distance from the respective communication or signal connection, which may exist at most between a transmitter and a receiver, so that communication between them is still possible.
  • the antenna element is preferably designed as a radio frequency antenna (RF antenna) or as an RF resonator, for example for a 2.4 GHz Bluetooth transmission using an ISM frequency band (ISM: Industrial, Scientific and Medical).
  • RF antenna radio frequency antenna
  • ISM Industrial, Scientific and Medical
  • the antenna element is thus suitable and set up to receive or record and send or emit electromagnetic radio waves.
  • the hearing aid device When worn, the hearing aid device is preferably arranged essentially completely, but at least partially, in an ear canal or auditory canal of the user.
  • the antenna element and / or the transmitting and / or receiving unit are preferably suitable and set up for correcting attenuations and / or detuning of the RF signals based on the user's head.
  • the handle element is designed, for example, like a bow or loop.
  • the grip element is designed as an elongated pull-out thread (pull wire, pull-off string), for example, which protrudes approximately vertically from the housing surface or faceplate. Due to the approximately vertical orientation of the antenna element, a particularly suitable alignment and positioning in the wearing state is realized, as a result of which radiation losses due to weakening and / or detuning of the RF signals result from the user's head can be advantageously reduced. This subsequently transfers particularly advantageously to the signal quality of a wireless signal connection in the case of a binaural version of the hearing aid devices.
  • the antenna element is designed as a wire integrated in the handle element, in particular in the pull-out thread.
  • the wire extends in particular along a longitudinal direction of the grip element. This enables a particularly inexpensive hearing aid.
  • the antenna element can be designed, for example, as a monopole antenna, the length of the antenna element being adaptable to the wavelength of the RF signals to be sent and / or received.
  • the grip element is made at least in sections from an electrically non-conductive material.
  • the antenna element does not extend over the entire length of the pull-out thread. This is particularly advantageous in an embodiment of the antenna element as a monopole antenna, since the length of the pull-out thread typically required is greater than the desired antenna length for receiving the RF signals.
  • the antenna element is designed as a dipole antenna with a first dipole arm integrated in the handle element and with a second dipole arm arranged in the housing.
  • the second dipole arm is integrated in the housing surface or faceplate of the housing. A practical antenna element for the hearing aid device is thereby realized.
  • the first and second dipole arms of the antenna element are arranged essentially perpendicular to one another. This is particularly desirable when the second dipole arm is integrated into the housing surface.
  • the antenna element is designed as an F-shaped antenna with a transmission and / or reception area integrated into the handle element as a vertical F-leg, on which two contact arms inside the housing as a horizontal F-leg are coupled.
  • the antenna element is in this case in particular designed as an inverted F antenna. This results in a particularly advantageous antenna structure for the antenna element integrated in the handle element.
  • An H-shaped version (h antenna) is also conceivable, for example.
  • an additional or further aspect of the invention provides that the antenna element is coupled to an internal battery, in particular by means of at least one contact arm.
  • the battery is accommodated in a battery compartment of the housing, for example. Due to the coupling, the battery is essentially included in the antenna element.
  • the battery suitably forms a counterweight (opposite pole) or a mass to an antenna element. This enables a particularly useful and space-saving counterweight of the antenna element.
  • the antenna element is coupled to a metallized housing surface of the housing, in particular by means of at least one contact arm.
  • the housing surface is in particular a housing inner wall of the housing, which is metallized at least in sections or regions, and thus can be used as a ground plane inside the housing for contacting the antenna element. This metallization thus increases an available ground area of the internal ground potential, and thus the counterweight of the antenna element.
  • two hearing aids according to the invention are used for a binaural hearing aid device in particular.
  • the hearing aids are in operation by means of their antenna elements in a wireless signal connection.
  • the respective antenna elements act both as transmitting and receiving antennas.
  • a binaural hearing aid device 2 is shown schematically in a wearing state on a head 4 of a user.
  • the hearing aid device 2 comprises two hearing aid devices 6, which in the wearing state are each essentially completely seated within an ear canal or auditory canal of a left or right ear 8, not shown in any more detail.
  • the hearing aids 6 each have an antenna element 10, by means of which the hearing aids 6 are coupled bidirectionally during operation by means of a wireless radio or signal connection 12.
  • FIG. 2 Individually illustrated hearing aid 6 has an elongated handle element 14 in the form of a pull-out thread for easier removal or removal from the ear canal.
  • the grip element 14 is mechanical firmly coupled to a housing 16 of the hearing aid 6.
  • the grip element 14 is arranged on a housing surface 18, in particular a faceplate, of the housing 16 on the outside when it is worn.
  • the antenna element 10 is at least partially integrated in the handle element 14 or is formed integrally therewith.
  • the grip element and the antenna element 10 are designed as a common component.
  • the antenna element 10 extends at least partially outside the housing 16 and stands approximately vertically, in particular in the region of the faceplate 18.
  • Hearing aid 6 shown schematically in section is designed as an ITE hearing aid.
  • the hearing aid device 6 comprises a housing shell 20 which is individually adapted to an auditory canal of a hearing device user and which is closed by means of the lid-like faceplate 18.
  • Hearing aid components in the form of a microphone 22, a signal processing unit 24, a receiver 26 and a transmitting and receiving unit 28 for electromagnetic waves are arranged in the housing 16 of the hearing aid 6 formed by the housing shell 20 and the faceplate 18.
  • the hearing aid components are supplied with electrical energy by means of a battery 30.
  • the battery 30 is suitably installed in a battery compartment 32 ( Fig. 4 ) of the housing 16 used.
  • the battery compartment 32 is provided with a flap 34 ( Fig. 2 ) locked.
  • the antenna element 10 is designed as a wire integrated in the grip element 14 or as an integrated line.
  • the wire in this case extends in particular along a longitudinal direction of the grip element 14. This enables a particularly inexpensive hearing aid device.
  • the antenna element 10 is designed as a monopole antenna, the feed-side antenna end of which is led to the transmitting and receiving unit 28. The opposite free end of the antenna element 10 is guided and integrated in the handle element 14.
  • the antenna element 10 is signal-technically coupled to the transmitting and receiving unit 28 as a transceiver of the hearing aid device 6 and is suitable and set up, for example, for a wireless 2.4 GHz Bluetooth signal transmission in an ISM frequency band.
  • the grip element 14 is made at least in sections from an electrically non-conductive material. In other words, the antenna element 10 does not extend over the entire length of the grip element 14.
  • the antenna element 10 is designed as an inverted F antenna.
  • the hearing aid components 22, 24, 26 and 28 are in the Fig. 4 not shown in detail.
  • the antenna element 10 points in Fig. 4 a vertical F-leg 36 designed as a transmission and reception area, which is integrated in the grip element 14.
  • the transmission and reception area 36 in this case in particular forms the handle element 14 itself.
  • the transmission and reception area 36 and the handle element 14 are in particular monolithic, that is to say in one piece or in one piece.
  • the transmission and reception area 36 essentially forms the housing-outside section of the antenna element 10.
  • the transmission and reception area 36 is guided to two housing-internal contact arms as horizontal F-legs 38a, 38b.
  • the contact arm 38a is connected to the feed line in FIG Fig.
  • Transmitter and receiver unit 28 is connected, the second contact arm 38b being connected to a ground potential as a short-circuit connection.
  • the contact arm 38b is coupled, in particular, to the battery 30 inside the housing. Through the coupling is the battery 30 is essentially included in the antenna element 10.
  • the battery 30 forms a counterweight (opposite pole) or a mass to the antenna element 10 configured as an F antenna.
  • the antenna element 10, or its contact arm 38b is coupled to a metallized housing surface 40 of the housing 16.
  • the housing surface 40 is in particular a housing inner wall of the housing, which is metallized at least in sections or regions, and thus can be used as a ground plane inside the housing for contacting the antenna element 10.
  • the antenna element 10 is designed as a dipole antenna with a first dipole arm 42 integrated into the grip element 14 and with a second dipole arm 44 arranged in the housing 16.
  • the dipole arm 44 is integrated in particular in the material of the faceplate 18.
  • the dipole arms 42 and 44 of the antenna element 10 are arranged essentially perpendicular to one another.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Neurosurgery (AREA)
  • Otolaryngology (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Headphones And Earphones (AREA)
  • Support Of Aerials (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Hörhilfegerät, insbesondere ein In-dem-Ohr-Hörgerät, mit einem Gehäuse mit einer darin angeordneten Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit für elektromagnetische Wellen, welche mit einem Antennenelement gekoppelt ist. Die Erfindung betrifft weiterhin eine insbesondere binaurale Hörhilfevorrichtung mit zwei derartigen Hörgeräten.The invention relates to a hearing aid, in particular an in-the-ear hearing device, with a housing with a transmitting and / or receiving unit for electromagnetic waves arranged therein, which is coupled to an antenna element. The invention further relates to a binaural hearing aid device in particular with two such hearing aids.

Hörhilfegeräte sind tragbare Hörgeräte, die zur Versorgung von Schwerhörenden oder Hörgeschädigten dienen. Um den zahlreichen individuellen Bedürfnissen entgegenzukommen, werden unterschiedliche Bauformen von Hörhilfegeräten wie Hinter-dem-Ohr-Hörgeräte (HdO) und Hörgeräte mit einem externen Hörer (RIC: receiver in the canal) sowie In-dem-Ohr-Hörgeräte (IdO), zum Beispiel auch Concha-Hörgeräte oder Kanal-Hörgeräte (ITE: In-The-Ear, CIC: Completely-In-Channel, IIC: Invisible-In-The-Channel), bereitgestellt. Die beispielhaft aufgeführten Hörgeräte werden am Außenohr oder im Gehörgang eines Hörhilfegerätenutzers getragen. Darüber hinaus stehen auf dem Markt aber auch Knochenleitungshörhilfen, implantierbare oder vibrotaktile Hörhilfen zur Verfügung. Dabei erfolgt die Stimulation des geschädigten Gehörs entweder mechanisch oder elektrisch.Hearing aids are portable hearing aids that are used to care for hearing impaired or hearing impaired people. In order to meet the numerous individual needs, different types of hearing aids such as behind-the-ear hearing aids (BTE) and hearing aids with an external handset (RIC: receiver in the canal) and in-the-ear hearing aids (ITE) are available Example also provided concha hearing aids or channel hearing aids (ITE: In-The-Ear, CIC: Completely-In-Channel, IIC: Invisible-In-The-Channel). The hearing aids listed by way of example are worn on the outer ear or in the auditory canal of a hearing aid user. Bone conduction hearing aids, implantable or vibrotactile hearing aids are also available on the market. The damaged hearing is stimulated either mechanically or electrically.

Derartige Hörhilfegeräte beziehungsweise Hörgeräte besitzen prinzipiell als wesentliche (Hörgeräte-)Komponenten einen Eingangswandler, einen Verstärker und einen Ausgangswandler. Der Eingangswandler ist in der Regel ein akustoelektrischer Wandler, wie beispielsweise ein Mikrofon, und/oder ein elektromagnetischer Empfänger, zum Beispiel eine Induktionsspule oder eine (Radiofrequenz-, RF-)Antenne. Der Ausgangswandler ist meist als ein elektro-akustischer Wandler, zum Beispiel als ein Miniaturlautsprecher (Hörer), oder als ein elektromechanischer Wandler, wie beispielsweise ein Knochenleitungshörer, realisiert. Der Verstärker ist üblicherweise in eine Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung integriert. Die Energieversorgung erfolgt üblicherweise durch eine Batterie oder einen aufladbaren Akkumulator.Such hearing aids or hearing aids basically have an input transducer, an amplifier and an output transducer as essential (hearing aid) components. The input transducer is usually an acoustoelectric transducer, such as a microphone, and / or an electromagnetic receiver, for example an induction coil or a (radio frequency, RF) antenna. The output transducer is mostly an electro-acoustic transducer, for example a miniature loudspeaker (handset), or an electromechanical one Transducers, such as a bone conduction receiver, realized. The amplifier is usually integrated in a signal processing device. Power is usually supplied by a battery or a rechargeable battery.

Derartige Hörgeräte weisen weiterhin beispielsweise ein Antennenelement als RF-Antenne auf, mittels welchen das Hörgerät signaltechnisch beispielsweise mit einem Bedienelement (Fernbedienung) und/oder mit einem weiteren Hörgerät koppelbar ist. In der Regel wird aus Platzgründen dasselbe Antennenelement für das Senden und das Empfangen von Daten verwendet.Hearing aids of this type also have, for example, an antenna element as an RF antenna, by means of which the hearing aid can be coupled in terms of signal technology, for example to an operating element (remote control) and / or to a further hearing aid. As a rule, the same antenna element is used for sending and receiving data for reasons of space.

Bei einer sogenannten binauralen Hörhilfevorrichtung werden zwei derartige Hörgeräte beziehungsweise Hörhilfegeräte von einem Benutzer getragen, wobei zwischen den Antennenelementen der Hörgeräte im Betrieb eine drahtlose Signalverbindung besteht. Im Betrieb werden hierbei drahtlos Daten, gegebenenfalls auch große Datenmengen, zwischen dem Hörgerät am rechten und linken Ohr ausgetauscht beziehungsweise übertragen. Die ausgetauschten Daten und Informationen ermöglichen eine besonders effektive Anpassung der Hörgeräte an eine jeweilige akustische Situation. Insbesondere wird hierdurch ein besonders authentischer Raumklang für den Benutzer ermöglicht sowie das Sprachverständis, auch in lauten Umgebungen, verbessert.In a so-called binaural hearing aid device, two such hearing aids or hearing aid devices are worn by a user, a wireless signal connection being established between the antenna elements of the hearing aids during operation. During operation, wireless data, possibly also large amounts of data, are exchanged or transmitted between the hearing aid on the right and left ear. The exchanged data and information enable the hearing aids to be adapted particularly effectively to a respective acoustic situation. In particular, this enables a particularly authentic surround sound for the user and improves speech understanding, even in noisy environments.

Hörgeräte sind vorzugsweise besonders platzsparend und kompakt ausgeführt, sodass sie optisch möglichst unscheinbar von einem Hörgerätenutzer getragen werden können. Dadurch werden zunehmend kleinere Hörgeräte hergestellt, welche einen zunehmend höheren Tragekomfort aufweisen, und somit von einem Benutzer bei einem Tragen an oder in einem Ohr kaum wahrgenommen werden. Aufgrund des dadurch reduzierten Bauraums ist es jedoch zunehmend schwieriger konventionelle Antennenelemente zur drahtlosen Signalübertragung in derartigen Hörgeräten unterzubringen und/oder einzubauen.Hearing aids are preferably designed to be particularly space-saving and compact, so that they can be worn visually as inconspicuously by a hearing aid user. As a result, increasingly smaller hearing aids are produced which have an increasingly higher wearing comfort and are therefore hardly perceived by a user when worn on or in an ear. Because of the reduced installation space as a result, however, it is increasingly difficult to accommodate and / or install conventional antenna elements for wireless signal transmission in such hearing aids.

Diese Problematik tritt insbesondere bei IdO-Hörgeräten auf, welche in der Regel maßgefertigt und tief in einem Gehörgang beziehungsweise Ohrkanal des Hörgerätebenutzers einsitzen. Solche Hörgeräte sind vorzugsweise derart bauraumkompakt ausgestaltet, dass sie im Tragezustand im Wesentlichen optisch unsichtbar im Ohrkanal angeordnet sind. Zur erleichterten Entnahme beziehungsweise zum Herausziehen von IdO-Hörgeräten aus dem Ohrkanal sind hierbei Griffelemente in Form von Ausziehfäden oder Bügeln denkbar, welche fest mit dem Gehäuse des Hörgeräts gekoppelt und von einem Hörgerätebenutzer einfach greifbar sind. Derartige Griffelemente sind in der Regel an einer im Tragezustand außenseitigen Gehäusefläche, wie beispielsweise einer Faceplate, des Gehäuses angeordnet, sodass sie von einem Hörgerätebenutzer bei Bedarf einfach greifbar sind. Die Ausziehfäden und Bügel dienen hierbei üblicherweise lediglich dem Zweck des vereinfachten Herausziehens des IdO-Hörgeräts aus dem Ohr.This problem occurs in particular with ITE hearing aids, which are usually custom-made and deep in an auditory canal or ear canal of the hearing aid user sit in. Such hearing aids are preferably of such a compact design that they are arranged in the ear canal in an essentially invisible manner when worn. To facilitate removal or removal of ITE hearing aids from the ear canal, grip elements in the form of pull-out threads or brackets are conceivable, which are firmly coupled to the housing of the hearing aid and are easily grasped by a hearing aid user. Such grip elements are generally arranged on a housing surface on the outside, such as a faceplate, of the housing when it is in the wearing state, so that they can be easily gripped by a hearing aid user if required. The pull-out threads and stirrups usually only serve the purpose of simply pulling the ITE hearing aid out of the ear.

In der DE 696 37 454 T2 ist ein IdO-Hörhilfegerät mit einem Gehäuse mit einer darin angeordneten Sende- und Empfangseinheit beschrieben. Die Sende- und Empfangseinheit ist mit einem Antennenelement gekoppelt, welches zumindest teilweise in ein Griffelement des Gehäuses integriert ist.In the DE 696 37 454 T2 describes an ITE hearing aid device with a housing with a transmitting and receiving unit arranged therein. The transmitting and receiving unit is coupled to an antenna element which is at least partially integrated in a handle element of the housing.

In der US 2005/0168396 A1 ist ein IdO-Hörhilfegerät beschrieben, bei welchem ein Antennenelement nahe einer Faceplate eines Gehäuses angeordnet ist. Das Antennenelement ist hierbei in ein Griffelement der Faceplate integriert.In the US 2005/0168396 A1 describes an ITE hearing aid in which an antenna element is arranged near a faceplate of a housing. The antenna element is integrated in a handle element of the faceplate.

In der US 2015/0289067 A1 ist ein HdO-Hörhilfegerät mit einem in dem Ohr angeordneten Gehäuseteil beschrieben. Das im Ohr getragene Gehäuseteil weist hierbei ein Antennenelement auf, welches zumindest teilweise aus dem Gehörgang hinausragt, und beispielsweise mit einem Ausziehfaden als Griffelement kombiniert ist.In the US 2015/0289067 A1 describes a BTE hearing aid with a housing part arranged in the ear. The housing part worn in the ear in this case has an antenna element which at least partially protrudes from the auditory canal and is combined, for example, with a pull-out thread as the grip element.

Die US 2010/0020994 A1 beschreibt ein IdO-Hörhilfegerät mit einem in ein Griffelement integrierten Antennenelement zur drahtlosen Signalkommunikation.The US 2010/0020994 A1 describes an ITE hearing aid device with an antenna element integrated in a grip element for wireless signal communication.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein besonders geeignetes Hörhilfegerät anzugeben. Der Erfindung liegt weiterhin die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine mit zwei derartigen Hörhilfegeräten ausgestattete Hörhilfevorrichtung anzugeben.The invention has for its object to provide a particularly suitable hearing aid. The invention is also based on the object of specifying a hearing aid device equipped with two hearing aid devices of this type.

Hinsichtlich des Hörhilfegeräts wird die Aufgabe mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 und hinsichtlich der Hörhilfevorrichtung mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 4 erfindungsgemäß gelöst. Vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen und Weiterbildungen sind Gegenstand der jeweiligen Unteransprüche.With regard to the hearing aid device, the object is achieved according to the invention with the features of claim 1 and with regard to the hearing aid device with the features of claim 4. Advantageous refinements and developments are the subject of the respective subclaims.

Das erfindungsgemäße Hörhilfegerät ist insbesondere als ein In-dem Ohr-Hörgerät (IdO-Hörgerät), beispielsweise als ein Kanal-Hörgerät (ITE: In-The-Ear, CIC: Completely-In-Channel, IIC: Invisible-In-The-Channel), ausgeführt. Das nachfolgend auch als Hörgerät bezeichnete Hörhilfegerät weist ein schalenartiges Gehäuse zur Aufnahme von elektrischen und elektronischen Hörgerätekomponenten auf.The hearing aid according to the invention is in particular as an in-the-ear hearing aid (ITE hearing aid), for example as a channel hearing aid (ITE: In-The-Ear, CIC: Completely-In-Channel, IIC: Invisible-In-The- Channel). The hearing aid, also referred to below as the hearing aid, has a shell-like housing for accommodating electrical and electronic hearing aid components.

Die Hörgerätekomponenten umfassen hierbei eine Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit für elektromagnetische Wellen. Unter elektromagnetischen Wellen sind nachfolgend insbesondere Funksignale, auch als RF-Signale bezeichnet, zu verstehen. Der Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit ist ein Antennenelement zum Versenden und/oder Empfangen der RF-Signale zugeordnet, dies bedeutet, dass die Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit zumindest signaltechnisch mit dem Antennenelement gekoppelt ist.The hearing aid components here comprise a transmitting and / or receiving unit for electromagnetic waves. In the following, electromagnetic waves are to be understood in particular as radio signals, also referred to as RF signals. The transmitting and / or receiving unit is assigned an antenna element for sending and / or receiving the RF signals, this means that the transmitting and / or receiving unit is coupled to the antenna element at least in terms of signal technology.

An einer in einem Tragezustand nach außen gerichteten Gehäusefläche des Gehäuses, beispielsweise an einer das Gehäuse deckelartig verschließenden Faceplate (Abdeckung, Oberschale), ist ein Griffelement (Griffteil) angeordnet, welches im Tragezustand von einem Hörhilfegerätebenutzer leicht greifbar ist. Das Griffelement ist geeigneterweise mechanisch fest mit dem Gehäuse und/oder der Gehäusefläche gekoppelt. Mit dem Griffelement ist das Hörhilfegerät somit im Tragezustand einfach herausziehbar beziehungsweise entnehmbar. Erfindungsgemäß ist hierbei vorgesehen, dass das Antennenelement zumindest abschnittsweise in das Griffelement integriert ist. Durch die Funktionsintegration des Antennenelements und des Griffelements ist ein besonders geeignetes Hörhilfegerät realisiert. Weiterhin wird aufgrund der zumindest teilweisen Anordnung des Antennenelements außerhalb des Gehäuses deren Leistung und Effektivität verbessert.A handle element (handle part) is arranged on a housing surface of the housing that faces outwards when in a worn state, for example on a faceplate (cover, upper shell) that closes the housing, which can be easily gripped by a hearing aid user when in the worn state. The grip element is suitably mechanically fixedly coupled to the housing and / or the housing surface. With the handle element, the hearing aid can thus be easily pulled out or removed in the wearing state. It is provided according to the invention that the antenna element is at least partially integrated into the handle element. Due to the functional integration of the antenna element and the grip element, a particularly suitable hearing aid device is realized. Furthermore, due to the at least partial arrangement of the antenna element outside of the case their performance and effectiveness improved.

Im Gegensatz zum Stand der Technik dient das Griffelement somit nicht lediglich einem Herausziehen oder Entnehmen des Hörhilfegeräts aus einem Gehörgang beziehungsweise Ohrkanal, sondern weist durch das integrierte Antennenelement eine weitere Funktion hinsichtlich des Betriebs des Hörhilfegeräts auf. Durch die Integration des Antennenelements in das Griffelement ist das Antennenelement zumindest teilweise außerhalb des Gehäuses angeordnet, wodurch Bauraum innerhalb des Gehäuses eingespart wird. Dadurch ist es möglich das Hörhilfegerät bauraumkompakter auszuführen, wodurch einerseits der Tragekomfort des Hörhilfegeräts erhöht wird. Andererseits ist das Hörhilfegerät somit besonders optisch unscheinbar innerhalb eines Ohrkanals (Gehörgang) einsetzbar.In contrast to the prior art, the grip element is therefore not only used to pull the hearing aid device out or out of an auditory canal or ear canal, but also has a further function with regard to the operation of the hearing aid device due to the integrated antenna element. By integrating the antenna element into the handle element, the antenna element is at least partially arranged outside the housing, thereby saving installation space inside the housing. This makes it possible to make the hearing aid more compact, which on the one hand increases the wearing comfort of the hearing aid. On the other hand, the hearing aid can thus be used particularly optically inconspicuously within an ear canal (auditory canal).

Das Gehäuse des Hörhilfegeräts ist vorzugsweise individuell an den Ohrkanal beziehungsweise den Gehörgang des (Hörhilfegeräte-)Benutzers angepasst. Mit anderen Worten ist das Gehäuse für den jeweiligen Benutzer maßgefertigt. Da das Antennenelement zumindest teilweise außerhalb des Gehäuses angeordnet ist, werden konstruktive Einschränkungen des Antennenelements im Vergleich zu einer vollständigen Anordnung des Antennenelements innerhalb des Gehäuses vermieden. Dies überträgt sich in der Folge vorteilhaft auf zusätzliche Freiheiten in der Ausgestaltung und Ausführung des Antennenelements, sodass eine vergleichsweise große Anzahl an Antennenstrukturen für das Hörhilfegerät ermöglicht wird. Des Weiteren sind somit größere Freiheiten hinsichtlich einer Dimensionierung der Antennenlänge ermöglicht.The housing of the hearing aid is preferably individually adapted to the ear canal or the auditory canal of the (hearing aid) user. In other words, the housing is custom-made for the respective user. Since the antenna element is at least partially arranged outside the housing, design restrictions of the antenna element compared to a complete arrangement of the antenna element within the housing are avoided. As a result, this is advantageously transferred to additional freedom in the design and implementation of the antenna element, so that a comparatively large number of antenna structures is made possible for the hearing aid device. Furthermore, greater freedom with regard to dimensioning the antenna length is thus made possible.

Das Hörhilfegerät umfasst als Hörgerätekomponenten beispielsweise einen Eingangswandler und einen Verstärker als Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung sowie einen Ausgangswandler. Die Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit ist funktionsgemäß zur Erzeugung und/oder Auswertung von mittels des Antennenelements versendbarer beziehungsweise empfangbarer RF-Signale geeignet und eingerichtet. Die Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit weist hierzu beispielsweise elektronische Bauteile zur Anpassung an das Antennenelement, beispielsweise zur Leistungsanpassung oder einer Widerstandsanpassung, auf. Die Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit und das Antennenelement sind zusammen vorzugsweise als ein Transceiver, also als ein Sendeempfänger oder eine Sende-Empfangseinheit, des Hörhilfegeräts, zum drahtlosen Senden und Empfangen von (Funk-)Signalen und Daten, ausgebildet.The hearing aid comprises, as hearing aid components, for example an input converter and an amplifier as a signal processing device and an output converter. The transmitter and / or receiver unit is functionally suitable and set up for generating and / or evaluating RF signals that can be sent or received by means of the antenna element. For this purpose, the transmitting and / or receiving unit has, for example, electronic components for adapting to the antenna element, for example for adapting the power or a resistance adjustment. The transmitting and / or receiving unit and the antenna element are preferably designed together as a transceiver, that is to say as a transceiver or a transceiver, of the hearing aid, for the wireless transmission and reception of (radio) signals and data.

Die Sendereichweite der Sende-Empfangseinheit beträgt beispielsweise 10 m. Unter einer Reichweite ist hierbei insbesondere die Signalreichweite zu verstehen, also eine Entfernung der jeweiligen Kommunikations- oder Signalverbindung, welche maximal zwischen einem Sender und einem Empfänger bestehen darf, so dass noch eine Kommunikation zwischen diesen möglich ist.The transmission range of the transceiver unit is 10 m, for example. A range is to be understood here in particular as the signal range, that is to say a distance from the respective communication or signal connection, which may exist at most between a transmitter and a receiver, so that communication between them is still possible.

Das Antennenelement ist vorzugsweise als eine Radiofrequenzantenne (RF-Antenne) beziehungsweise als ein RF-Resonator ausgebildet, beispielsweise für eine 2.4 GHz Bluetooth-Übertragung mittels eines ISM-Frequenzbands (ISM: Industrial, Scientific and Medical). Das Antennenelement ist somit dazu geeignet und eingerichtet elektromagnetische Funkwellen zu empfangen beziehungsweise aufzunehmen und zu versenden beziehungsweise abzugeben.The antenna element is preferably designed as a radio frequency antenna (RF antenna) or as an RF resonator, for example for a 2.4 GHz Bluetooth transmission using an ISM frequency band (ISM: Industrial, Scientific and Medical). The antenna element is thus suitable and set up to receive or record and send or emit electromagnetic radio waves.

Im Tragezustand ist das Hörhilfegerät vorzugsweise im Wesentlichen vollständig, jedoch zumindest teilweise, in einem Ohrkanal beziehungsweise Gehörgang des Benutzers angeordnet. Vorzugsweise sind das Antennenelement und/oder die Sende- und/oder Empfangseinheit hierbei zur Korrektur von Abschwächungen und/oder Verstimmungen der RF-Signale aufgrund des Kopfes des Benutzers geeignet und eingerichtet.When worn, the hearing aid device is preferably arranged essentially completely, but at least partially, in an ear canal or auditory canal of the user. The antenna element and / or the transmitting and / or receiving unit are preferably suitable and set up for correcting attenuations and / or detuning of the RF signals based on the user's head.

Das Griffelement ist beispielsweise bügel- oder schlaufenartig ausgestaltet. In einer vorteilhaften Ausführung ist das Griffelement jedoch als ein beispielsweise länglicher Ausziehfaden (Zugdraht, Pull-off string) ausgebildet, welcher der Gehäusefläche oder Faceplate etwa senkrecht emporsteht. Durch die etwa senkrechte Orientierung des Antennenelements ist eine besonders geeignete Ausrichtung und Positionierung im Tragezustand realisiert, wodurch Strahlungsverluste aufgrund von Abschwächungen und/oder Verstimmungen der RF-Signale durch den Kopf des Benutzers vorteilhaft reduziert werden. Dies überträgt sich in der Folge insbesondere vorteilhaft auf die Signalqualität einer drahtlosen Signalverbindung bei einer binauralen Ausführung der Hörhilfegeräte.The handle element is designed, for example, like a bow or loop. In an advantageous embodiment, however, the grip element is designed as an elongated pull-out thread (pull wire, pull-off string), for example, which protrudes approximately vertically from the housing surface or faceplate. Due to the approximately vertical orientation of the antenna element, a particularly suitable alignment and positioning in the wearing state is realized, as a result of which radiation losses due to weakening and / or detuning of the RF signals result from the user's head can be advantageously reduced. This subsequently transfers particularly advantageously to the signal quality of a wireless signal connection in the case of a binaural version of the hearing aid devices.

In einer konstruktiv einfachen Weiterbildung ist das Antennenelement als ein in das Griffelement, insbesondere in den Ausziehfaden, integrierter Draht ausgeführt. Der Draht erstreckt sich hierbei insbesondere entlang einer Längsrichtung des Griffelements. Dadurch ist ein besonders kostengünstiges Hörhilfegerät ermöglicht.In a structurally simple development, the antenna element is designed as a wire integrated in the handle element, in particular in the pull-out thread. The wire extends in particular along a longitudinal direction of the grip element. This enables a particularly inexpensive hearing aid.

Das Antennenelement kann in einer Ausgestaltung, die nicht unter den Anspruchswortlaut fällt, beispielsweise als eine Monopolantenne ausgeführt sein, wobei die Länge des Antennenelements entsprechend an die zu versendende und/oder zu empfangende Wellenlänge der RF-Signale anpassbar ist.In an embodiment which does not fall under the wording of the claim, the antenna element can be designed, for example, as a monopole antenna, the length of the antenna element being adaptable to the wavelength of the RF signals to be sent and / or received.

In einer zweckmäßigen Ausgestaltung ist das Griffelement zumindest abschnittsweise aus einem elektrisch nicht leitfähigen Material gefertigt. Mit anderen Worten erstreckt sich das Antennenelement nicht über die komplette Länge des Ausziehfadens. Dies ist insbesondere in einer Ausgestaltungsform des Antennenelements als Monopolantenne vorteilhaft, da die typischerweise benötigte Länge des Ausziehfadens größer ist, als die gewünschte Antennenlänge zum Empfang der RF-Signale.In an expedient embodiment, the grip element is made at least in sections from an electrically non-conductive material. In other words, the antenna element does not extend over the entire length of the pull-out thread. This is particularly advantageous in an embodiment of the antenna element as a monopole antenna, since the length of the pull-out thread typically required is greater than the desired antenna length for receiving the RF signals.

Das Antennenelement ist als eine Dipolantenne mit einem in das Griffelement integrierten ersten Dipolarm und mit einem in dem Gehäuse angeordneten zweiten Dipolarm ausgeführt. Der zweite Dipolarm ist in die Gehäusefläche beziehungsweise Faceplate des Gehäuses integriert. Dadurch ist ein zweckmäßiges Antennenelement für das Hörhilfegerät realisiert.The antenna element is designed as a dipole antenna with a first dipole arm integrated in the handle element and with a second dipole arm arranged in the housing. The second dipole arm is integrated in the housing surface or faceplate of the housing. A practical antenna element for the hearing aid device is thereby realized.

Der erste und zweite Dipolarm des Antennenelements sind im Wesentlichen senkrecht zueinander angeordnet. Dies ist insbesondere bei einer Integration des zweiten Dipolarms in die Gehäusefläche wünschenswert.The first and second dipole arms of the antenna element are arranged essentially perpendicular to one another. This is particularly desirable when the second dipole arm is integrated into the housing surface.

In einer alternativen Ausführung, die nicht unter den Anspruchswortlaut fällt, ist das Antennenelement als eine F-förmige Antenne mit einem in das Griffelement integrierten Sende- und/oder Empfangsbereich als vertikalen F-Schenkel ausgeführt, an welchen zwei gehäuseinterne Kontaktarme als horizontale F-Schenkel gekoppelt sind. Das Antennenelement ist hierbei insbesondere als eine invertierte F-Antenne ausgebildet. Dadurch ist eine besonders vorteilhafte Antennenstruktur für das in das Griffelement integrierte Antennenelement realisiert. Ebenso denkbar ist beispielsweise auch eine h-förmige Ausführung (h-Antenne).In an alternative embodiment, which does not fall under the wording of the claim, the antenna element is designed as an F-shaped antenna with a transmission and / or reception area integrated into the handle element as a vertical F-leg, on which two contact arms inside the housing as a horizontal F-leg are coupled. The antenna element is in this case in particular designed as an inverted F antenna. This results in a particularly advantageous antenna structure for the antenna element integrated in the handle element. An H-shaped version (h antenna) is also conceivable, for example.

Ein zusätzlicher oder weiterer Aspekt der Erfindung sieht vor, dass das Antennenelement, insbesondere mittels mindestens eines Kontaktarms, an eine gehäuseinterne Batterie gekoppelt ist. Die Batterie ist hierbei beispielsweise in einem Batteriefach des Gehäuses aufgenommen. Durch die Kopplung ist die Batterie im Wesentlichen in das Antennenelement einbezogen. Die Batterie bildet hierbei geeigneterweise ein Gegengewicht (Gegenpol) beziehungsweise eine Masse zu einem Antennenelement. Dadurch ist ein besonders zweckmäßiges und bauraumkompaktes Gegengewicht des Antennenelements ermöglicht.An additional or further aspect of the invention provides that the antenna element is coupled to an internal battery, in particular by means of at least one contact arm. The battery is accommodated in a battery compartment of the housing, for example. Due to the coupling, the battery is essentially included in the antenna element. The battery suitably forms a counterweight (opposite pole) or a mass to an antenna element. This enables a particularly useful and space-saving counterweight of the antenna element.

Zusätzlich oder alternativ ist es ebenso denkbar, dass das Antennenelement, insbesondere mittels mindestens eines Kontaktarms, an eine metallisierte Gehäusefläche des Gehäuses gekoppelt ist. Die Gehäusefläche ist hierbei insbesondere eine Gehäuseinnenwand des Gehäuses, welche zumindest abschnitts- oder bereichsweise metallisiert ist, und somit als gehäuseinterne Massefläche (ground plane) zur Kontaktierung des Antennenelements nutzbar ist. Diese Metallisierung vergrößert somit eine zur Verfügung stehende Massefläche des gehäuseinternen Groundpotentials, und somit das Gegengewicht des Antennenelements.Additionally or alternatively, it is also conceivable that the antenna element is coupled to a metallized housing surface of the housing, in particular by means of at least one contact arm. The housing surface is in particular a housing inner wall of the housing, which is metallized at least in sections or regions, and thus can be used as a ground plane inside the housing for contacting the antenna element. This metallization thus increases an available ground area of the internal ground potential, and thus the counterweight of the antenna element.

In einer bevorzugten Anwendung werden zwei erfindungsgemäße Hörhilfegeräte für eine insbesondere binaurale Hörhilfevorrichtung verwendet. Die Hörhilfegeräte stehen hierbei im Betrieb mittels deren Antennenelemente in einer drahtlosen Signalverbindung. Mit anderen Worten ist zwischen den Hörhilfegeräten eine Signal- oder Kommunikationsverbindung zur drahtlosen Signalübertragung hergestellt. Die jeweiligen Antennenelemente wirken hierbei sowohl als Sende- als auch als Empfangsantennen.In a preferred application, two hearing aids according to the invention are used for a binaural hearing aid device in particular. The hearing aids are in operation by means of their antenna elements in a wireless signal connection. In other words, there is a signal between the hearing aids. or communication link for wireless signal transmission established. The respective antenna elements act both as transmitting and receiving antennas.

Nachfolgend sind Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung anhand einer Zeichnung näher erläutert. Darin zeigen in schematischen und vereinfachten Darstellungen:

Fig. 1
eine binaurale Hörhilfevorrichtung mit zwei Hörhilfegeräten in einem Tragezustand,
Fig. 2
perspektivisch eines der Hörhilfegeräte mit einem kombinierten Griffelement und Antennenelement,
Fig. 3
einen Schnitt des Hörhilfegeräts mit einem als Monopolantenne ausgebildeten Antennenelement,
Fig. 4
einen Schnitt des Hörhilfegeräts mit einem als invertierte F-Antenne ausgebildeten Antennenelement, und
Fig. 5
einen Schnitt des Hörhilfegeräts in einer erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform mit einer Dipolantenne als Antennenelement.
Exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to a drawing. It shows in schematic and simplified representations:
Fig. 1
a binaural hearing aid device with two hearing aid devices in a wearing state,
Fig. 2
in perspective one of the hearing aids with a combined grip element and antenna element,
Fig. 3
2 shows a section of the hearing aid device with an antenna element designed as a monopole antenna,
Fig. 4
a section of the hearing aid with an antenna element designed as an inverted F antenna, and
Fig. 5
a section of the hearing aid in an embodiment according to the invention with a dipole antenna as the antenna element.

Einander entsprechende Teile und Größen sind in allen Figuren stets mit den gleichen Bezugszeichen versehen.Corresponding parts and sizes are always provided with the same reference symbols in all figures.

In der Fig. 1 ist schematisch eine binaurale Hörhilfevorrichtung 2 in einem Tragezustand an einem Kopf 4 eines Benutzers gezeigt. Die Hörhilfevorrichtung 2 umfasst zwei Hörhilfegeräte 6, welche im Tragezustand jeweils im Wesentlichen vollständig innerhalb eines nicht näher dargestellten Ohrkanals beziehungsweise Gehörgangs eines linken beziehungsweise rechten Ohrs 8 einsitzen. Die Hörhilfegeräte 6 weisen jeweils ein Antennenelement 10 auf, mittels welchen die Hörhilfegeräte 6 im Betrieb bidirektional mittels einer drahtlosen Funk- beziehungsweise Signalverbindung 12 signaltechnisch gekoppelt sind.In the Fig. 1 a binaural hearing aid device 2 is shown schematically in a wearing state on a head 4 of a user. The hearing aid device 2 comprises two hearing aid devices 6, which in the wearing state are each essentially completely seated within an ear canal or auditory canal of a left or right ear 8, not shown in any more detail. The hearing aids 6 each have an antenna element 10, by means of which the hearing aids 6 are coupled bidirectionally during operation by means of a wireless radio or signal connection 12.

Das in Fig. 2 einzeln dargestellte Hörhilfegerät 6 weist zur erleichterten Entnahme beziehungsweise zum Herausziehen aus dem Ohrkanal ein längliches Griffelement 14 in Form eines Ausziehfadens auf. Das Griffelement 14 ist hierbei mechanisch fest mit einem Gehäuse 16 des Hörhilfegeräts 6 gekoppelt. Zum vereinfachten Greifen durch den Benutzers ist das Griffelement 14 an einer im Tragezustand außenseitigen Gehäusefläche 18, insbesondere einer Faceplate, des Gehäuses 16 angeordnet. Erfindungsgemäß ist das Antennenelement 10 hierbei zumindest teilweise in das Griffelement 14 integriert beziehungsweise integral mit diesem ausgebildet. Mit anderen Worten sind das Griffelement und das Antennenelement 10 als ein gemeinsames Bauteil ausgeführt. Dadurch erstreckt sich das Antennenelement 10 zumindest teilweise außerhalb des Gehäuses 16, und steht diesem insbesondere im Bereich der Faceplate 18 etwa senkrecht empor.This in Fig. 2 Individually illustrated hearing aid 6 has an elongated handle element 14 in the form of a pull-out thread for easier removal or removal from the ear canal. The grip element 14 is mechanical firmly coupled to a housing 16 of the hearing aid 6. For simplified gripping by the user, the grip element 14 is arranged on a housing surface 18, in particular a faceplate, of the housing 16 on the outside when it is worn. According to the invention, the antenna element 10 is at least partially integrated in the handle element 14 or is formed integrally therewith. In other words, the grip element and the antenna element 10 are designed as a common component. As a result, the antenna element 10 extends at least partially outside the housing 16 and stands approximately vertically, in particular in the region of the faceplate 18.

Das in der Fig. 3 im Schnitt schematisch gezeigte Hörhilfegerät 6 ist als ein IdO-Hörgerät ausgeführt. Das Hörhilfegerät 6 umfasst eine individuell an einen Gehörgang eines Hörgerätebenutzers angepasste Gehäuseschale 20, welche mittels der deckelartigen Faceplate 18 verschlossen ist. In dem durch die Gehäuseschale 20 und der Faceplate 18 gebildeten Gehäuse 16 des Hörhilfegeräts 6 sind Hörgerätekomponenten in Form eines Mikrofons 22, einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit 24, eines Hörers 26 und einer Sende- und Empfangseinheit 28 für elektromagnetische Wellen angeordnet. Die Hörgerätekomponenten werden mittels einer Batterie 30 mit elektrischer Energie versorgt.That in the Fig. 3 Hearing aid 6 shown schematically in section is designed as an ITE hearing aid. The hearing aid device 6 comprises a housing shell 20 which is individually adapted to an auditory canal of a hearing device user and which is closed by means of the lid-like faceplate 18. Hearing aid components in the form of a microphone 22, a signal processing unit 24, a receiver 26 and a transmitting and receiving unit 28 for electromagnetic waves are arranged in the housing 16 of the hearing aid 6 formed by the housing shell 20 and the faceplate 18. The hearing aid components are supplied with electrical energy by means of a battery 30.

Die Batterie 30 ist im Montagezustand geeigneterweise in einem Batteriefach 32 (Fig. 4) des Gehäuses 16 eingesetzt. Das Batteriefach 32 ist mit einer deckelseitigen Klappe 34 (Fig. 2) verschlossen.The battery 30 is suitably installed in a battery compartment 32 ( Fig. 4 ) of the housing 16 used. The battery compartment 32 is provided with a flap 34 ( Fig. 2 ) locked.

In Fig. 3 ist das Antennenelement 10 als ein in das Griffelement 14 integrierter Draht beziehungsweise als eine integrierte Leitung ausgeführt. Der Draht erstreckt sich hierbei insbesondere entlang einer Längsrichtung des Griffelements 14. Dadurch ist ein besonders kostengünstiges Hörhilfegerät ermöglicht. Das Antennenelement 10 ist hierbei als eine Monopolantenne ausgeführt, deren einspeiseseitiges Antennenende an die Sende- und Empfangseinheit 28 geführt ist. Das gegenüberliegende Freiende des Antennenelements 10 ist in das Griffelement 14 geführt und integriert.In Fig. 3 the antenna element 10 is designed as a wire integrated in the grip element 14 or as an integrated line. The wire in this case extends in particular along a longitudinal direction of the grip element 14. This enables a particularly inexpensive hearing aid device. The antenna element 10 is designed as a monopole antenna, the feed-side antenna end of which is led to the transmitting and receiving unit 28. The opposite free end of the antenna element 10 is guided and integrated in the handle element 14.

Im Montagezustand ist das Antennenelement 10 mit der Sende- und Empfangseinheit 28 signaltechnisch als ein Transceiver des Hörhilfegeräts 6 gekoppelt und beispielsweise für eine drahtlose 2.4 GHz Bluetooth-Signalübertragung in einem ISM-Frequenzband geeignet und eingerichtet.In the assembled state, the antenna element 10 is signal-technically coupled to the transmitting and receiving unit 28 as a transceiver of the hearing aid device 6 and is suitable and set up, for example, for a wireless 2.4 GHz Bluetooth signal transmission in an ISM frequency band.

Wie in der Schnittdarstellung der Fig. 3 vergleichsweise deutlich ersichtlich ist, ist das Griffelement 14 zumindest abschnittsweise aus einem elektrisch nicht leitfähigen Material gefertigt. Mit anderen Worten erstreckt sich das Antennenelement 10 nicht über die komplette Länge des Griffelements 14.As in the sectional view of the Fig. 3 can be seen comparatively clearly, the grip element 14 is made at least in sections from an electrically non-conductive material. In other words, the antenna element 10 does not extend over the entire length of the grip element 14.

Anhand der Figuren 4 und 5 sind zwei weitere Beispiele des Antennenelements 10 näher erläutert.Based on Figures 4 and 5 two further examples of the antenna element 10 are explained in more detail.

In Fig. 4 ist das Antennenelement 10 als eine invertierte F-Antenne ausgeführt. Die Hörgerätekomponenten 22, 24, 26 und 28 sind in der Fig. 4 nicht näher dargestellt.In Fig. 4 the antenna element 10 is designed as an inverted F antenna. The hearing aid components 22, 24, 26 and 28 are in the Fig. 4 not shown in detail.

Das Antennenelement 10 weist in Fig. 4 einen als Sende- und Empfangsbereich ausgebildeten vertikalen F-Schenkel 36, welcher in das Griffelement 14 integriert ist. Der Sende- und Empfangsbereich 36 bildet hierbei insbesondere das Griffelement 14 selbst. Mit anderen Worten sind der Sende- und Empfangsbereich 36 das Griffelement 14 insbesondere monolithisch, also einteilig oder einstückig, miteinander ausgeführt. Der Sende- und Empfangsbereich 36 bildet im Wesentlichen den gehäuseaußenseitigen Abschnitt des Antennenelements 10. Gehäuseinnenseitig, also im Inneren des Gehäuses 16, ist der Sende- und Empfangsbereich 36 an zwei gehäuseinterne Kontaktarme als horizontale F-Schenkel 38a, 38b geführt. Hierbei ist beispielsweise der Kontaktarm 38a als Einspeiseleitung an die in Fig. 4 nicht gezeigte Sende- und Empfangseinheit 28 angeschlossen, wobei der zweite Kontaktarm 38b als eine Kurzschlussverbindung an ein Massepotential geführt ist. In Fig. 4 ist der Kontaktarm 38b hierzu insbesondere an die gehäuseinterne Batterie 30 gekoppelt. Durch die Kopplung ist die Batterie 30 im Wesentlichen in das Antennenelement 10 einbezogen. Die Batterie 30 bildet hierbei ein Gegengewicht (Gegenpol) beziehungsweise eine Masse zu dem als F-Antenne ausgestalteten Antennenelement 10.The antenna element 10 points in Fig. 4 a vertical F-leg 36 designed as a transmission and reception area, which is integrated in the grip element 14. The transmission and reception area 36 in this case in particular forms the handle element 14 itself. In other words, the transmission and reception area 36 and the handle element 14 are in particular monolithic, that is to say in one piece or in one piece. The transmission and reception area 36 essentially forms the housing-outside section of the antenna element 10. On the inside of the housing, that is to say inside the housing 16, the transmission and reception area 36 is guided to two housing-internal contact arms as horizontal F-legs 38a, 38b. Here, for example, the contact arm 38a is connected to the feed line in FIG Fig. 4 Transmitter and receiver unit 28, not shown, is connected, the second contact arm 38b being connected to a ground potential as a short-circuit connection. In Fig. 4 For this purpose, the contact arm 38b is coupled, in particular, to the battery 30 inside the housing. Through the coupling is the battery 30 is essentially included in the antenna element 10. The battery 30 forms a counterweight (opposite pole) or a mass to the antenna element 10 configured as an F antenna.

In einer zusätzlichen oder alternativen Ausgestaltung ist es beispielsweise denkbar, dass das Antennenelement 10, beziehungsweise dessen Kontaktarm 38b, an eine metallisierte Gehäusefläche 40 des Gehäuses 16 gekoppelt ist. Die Gehäusefläche 40 ist hierbei insbesondere eine Gehäuseinnenwand des Gehäuses, welche zumindest abschnitts- oder bereichsweise metallisiert ist, und somit als gehäuseinterne Massefläche (ground plane) zur Kontaktierung des Antennenelements 10 nutzbar ist.In an additional or alternative embodiment, it is conceivable, for example, that the antenna element 10, or its contact arm 38b, is coupled to a metallized housing surface 40 of the housing 16. The housing surface 40 is in particular a housing inner wall of the housing, which is metallized at least in sections or regions, and thus can be used as a ground plane inside the housing for contacting the antenna element 10.

In dem erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsbeispiel der Fig. 5 ist das Antennenelement 10 als eine Dipolantenne mit einem in das Griffelement 14 integrierten ersten Dipolarm 42 und mit einem in dem Gehäuse 16 angeordneten zweiten Dipolarm 44 ausgeführt. Der Dipolarm 44 ist hierbei insbesondere in das Material der Faceplate 18 integriert. Die Dipolarme 42 und 44 des Antennenelements 10 sind im Wesentlichen senkrecht zueinander angeordnet.In the embodiment of the invention Fig. 5 the antenna element 10 is designed as a dipole antenna with a first dipole arm 42 integrated into the grip element 14 and with a second dipole arm 44 arranged in the housing 16. The dipole arm 44 is integrated in particular in the material of the faceplate 18. The dipole arms 42 and 44 of the antenna element 10 are arranged essentially perpendicular to one another.

BezugszeichenlisteReference symbol list

22nd
HörhilfevorrichtungHearing aid
44th
Kopfhead
66
HörhilfegerätHearing aid
88th
Ohrear
1010th
AntennenelementAntenna element
1212
SignalverbindungSignal connection
1414
GriffelementGrip element
1616
Gehäusecasing
1818th
Gehäusefläche/FaceplateHousing area / faceplate
2020th
GehäuseschaleHousing shell
2222
Mikrofonmicrophone
2424th
SignalverarbeitungseinrichtungSignal processing device
2626
HörerListener
2828
Sende- und EmpfangseinheitSending and receiving unit
3030th
Batteriebattery
3232
BatteriefachBattery compartment
3434
Klappeflap
3636
F-Schenkel/Sende- und EmpfangsbereichF-leg / transmission and reception area
38a, 38b38a, 38b
F-Schenkel/KontaktarmF-leg / contact arm
4040
GehäuseflächeHousing area
42, 4442, 44
DipolarmLow dipole

Claims (4)

  1. Hearing aid (6) with a housing (16), and with a transmitting and/or receiving unit (28) for electromagnetic waves which is arranged in the housing (16) and which is coupled to an antenna element (10), wherein a grip element (14) is arranged on a housing face (18) of the housing (16), which housing face (18) is directed outwards when the hearing aid is being worn, and wherein the antenna element (10) is integrated at least in part in the grip element (14), characterized in that
    - the antenna element (10) is configured as a dipole antenna, with a first dipole arm (42) integrated in the grip element (14) and with a second dipole arm (44) integrated in the housing face (18), and
    - the first and second dipole arms (42, 44) of the antenna element (10) are arranged substantially perpendicularly to each other.
  2. Hearing aid (6) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the grip element (14) is designed as a pull-out thread protruding approximately perpendicularly from the housing face (18).
  3. Hearing aid (6) according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the grip element (14) is produced at least in part from an electrically nonconductive material.
  4. Hearing aid device (2) with two hearing aids (6) according to one of Claims 1 to 3, wherein the hearing aids (6) are in wireless signal connection (12) by way of their antenna elements (10).
EP17719511.2A 2016-08-01 2017-04-07 Hearing aid and hearing aid device Active EP3491846B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP16182230 2016-08-01
PCT/EP2017/058440 WO2018024377A1 (en) 2016-08-01 2017-04-07 Hearing aid apparatus and hearing aid device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3491846A1 EP3491846A1 (en) 2019-06-05
EP3491846B1 true EP3491846B1 (en) 2020-06-10

Family

ID=56615850

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP17719511.2A Active EP3491846B1 (en) 2016-08-01 2017-04-07 Hearing aid and hearing aid device

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US10735873B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3491846B1 (en)
CN (1) CN109845295B (en)
DK (1) DK3491846T3 (en)
WO (1) WO2018024377A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102020209124A1 (en) 2020-07-21 2022-01-27 Sivantos Pte. Ltd. ITE hearing aid

Families Citing this family (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3531718B1 (en) 2018-02-21 2022-01-19 Oticon A/s Hearing aid device having an antenna
EP3629600A1 (en) * 2018-09-28 2020-04-01 GN Hearing A/S Hearing device with antenna extending from the hearing device
DK3629599T3 (en) * 2018-09-28 2022-01-10 Gn Hearing As HEARING DEVICE WHICH INCLUDES A LOOP ANTENNA
DE102020201480A1 (en) 2020-02-06 2021-08-12 Sivantos Pte. Ltd. Hearing aid
EP3909499A1 (en) * 2020-05-15 2021-11-17 Innovius B.V. A wearable monitoring and assistance system
CN112448131B (en) * 2020-11-12 2022-12-13 厦门亿联网络技术股份有限公司 Antenna structure and radio base station
DE102021201909A1 (en) * 2021-03-01 2022-09-01 Sivantos Pte. Ltd. Hearing aid, antenna for a hearing aid and method for manufacturing a hearing aid
CN116888978A (en) * 2021-10-14 2023-10-13 恩尼奥·潘内拉 Audio transmission device for sports ground

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5721783A (en) 1995-06-07 1998-02-24 Anderson; James C. Hearing aid with wireless remote processor
US7256747B2 (en) * 2004-01-30 2007-08-14 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Method and apparatus for a wireless hearing aid antenna
US20100020994A1 (en) * 2004-10-28 2010-01-28 Christensen Craig L Antenna integrated with retrieval component of hearing aid
US20140023216A1 (en) * 2012-07-17 2014-01-23 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Hearing assistance device with wireless communication for on- and off- body accessories
US9485592B2 (en) * 2012-12-04 2016-11-01 Sonova Ag Hearing instrument comprising two antennas
US9237404B2 (en) * 2012-12-28 2016-01-12 Gn Resound A/S Dipole antenna for a hearing aid
DK3110174T3 (en) * 2015-06-24 2021-04-12 Oticon As HEARING DEVICE INCLUDING ANTENNA UNIT AND SHIELDED TRANSMISSION LINE

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
None *

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102020209124A1 (en) 2020-07-21 2022-01-27 Sivantos Pte. Ltd. ITE hearing aid
US11553292B2 (en) 2020-07-21 2023-01-10 Sivantos Pte. Ltd. In-the-ear hearing device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20190166437A1 (en) 2019-05-30
US10735873B2 (en) 2020-08-04
WO2018024377A1 (en) 2018-02-08
EP3491846A1 (en) 2019-06-05
DK3491846T3 (en) 2020-09-14
CN109845295A (en) 2019-06-04
CN109845295B (en) 2021-07-06

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP3491846B1 (en) Hearing aid and hearing aid device
EP2811761B1 (en) Antenna device for hearing instruments
EP2894880B1 (en) Antenna device for hearing instruments
DE102013204681B4 (en) Binaural hearing instrument and earpiece
DE102008015263A1 (en) Hearing system with subband signal exchange and corresponding method
EP2023665B1 (en) Hearing aid with adjustable sound emission device
EP2007172B1 (en) Sound emitting pipes with 2 component design
DE102016222323A1 (en) Hearing aid with electronics frame and integrated antenna
WO2017153020A1 (en) Hearing aid comprising an rf antenna
EP3567672B1 (en) Hearing aid with integrated antenna and electronics frame
EP2003930A2 (en) Hearing aid with connecting piece attached to case frame
DE102016207844A1 (en) hearing Aid
DE102007007800B3 (en) Hearing device with receiver compensation coil
EP1993323A1 (en) Earpiece for a hearing aid with bayonet fixing
EP2180725B1 (en) Hearing aid with oscillation decoupled earpiece
EP2043387A1 (en) Acoustic tube for a hearing procedure
EP3484179B1 (en) Hearing aid
WO2018024392A1 (en) Hearing aid comprising an rf antenna
EP3419312B1 (en) Hearing aid
EP3809723A1 (en) Hearing instrument
DE102017220187A1 (en) hearing aid
EP3739906A1 (en) Hearing instrument
EP4054208A1 (en) Hearing aid, anntena for a hearing aid and method for producing a hearing aid
DE102017208445A1 (en) hearing
DE102019204500A1 (en) Hearing aid

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: UNKNOWN

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE

PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20190110

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

DAV Request for validation of the european patent (deleted)
DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: GRANT OF PATENT IS INTENDED

INTG Intention to grant announced

Effective date: 20200103

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE PATENT HAS BEEN GRANTED

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: REF

Ref document number: 1280126

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20200615

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R096

Ref document number: 502017005659

Country of ref document: DE

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: GERMAN

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: E. BLUM AND CO. AG PATENT- UND MARKENANWAELTE , CH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DK

Ref legal event code: T3

Effective date: 20200908

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: LT

Ref legal event code: MG4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: NO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200910

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200911

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: MP

Effective date: 20200610

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200910

Ref country code: RS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: HR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: AL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SM

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201012

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201010

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 502017005659

Country of ref document: DE

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20210311

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210407

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: BE

Ref legal event code: MM

Effective date: 20210430

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20201010

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20210430

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: AT

Ref legal event code: MM01

Ref document number: 1280126

Country of ref document: AT

Kind code of ref document: T

Effective date: 20220407

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO

Effective date: 20170407

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20220407

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20230417

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: DK

Payment date: 20230419

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20230418

Year of fee payment: 7

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20230502

Year of fee payment: 7

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20230420

Year of fee payment: 7

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20200610