| Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
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| 20120121099 | AID TEST SYSTEM - This disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for diagnosing operation errors in hearing assistance devices, including but not limited to hearing aids. The hearing assistance device includes a microphone and a receiver. In various approaches, a housing is configured to hold the hearing assistance device and to provide a controlled acoustic environment between the microphone and receiver. A lid is configured to cover an opening in the housing to seal the housing from external sounds, in various approaches. In some examples, the hearing assistance device is configured to detect placement of the lid on the housing from within the housing and, once placement is detected, output acoustic signals through the receiver and compare resulting microphone input to baseline parameters to diagnose calibration errors. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120121094 | WIRELESS SYSTEM FOR HEARING COMMUNICATION DEVICES PROVIDING WIRELESS STEREO RECEPTION MODES - The present subject matter relates to the wireless stereo reception of first and second audio information by wireless hearing communication devices. One type of device which may employ the present subject matter is a hearing assistance device, such as a hearing aid. Various forms and protocols of signal transmission are employed in varying embodiments. The present subject matter includes various communication modes such as eavesdropping modes and relaying modes. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120087528 | ADJUSTMENT AND CLEANING TOOL FOR A HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE - A hearing aid kit includes a standard fit, completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid and a hearing aid tool set. The CIC hearing aid is for extended use and includes a core module inserted into a sleeve. The core module and the sleeve each include various features providing for a minimum overall size, ease of insertion, removal, and cleaning, and enhanced sound transmission. The tool set is configured to be stored and carried in a single piece and provides for adjustment and cleaning of the CIC hearing aid. Open ear fits and occlusive ear fits are possible using different sleeves. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120087527 | STANDARD FIT HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE WITH REMOVABLE SLEEVE - A hearing aid kit includes a standard fit, completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid and a hearing aid tool set. The CIC hearing aid is for extended use and includes a core module inserted into a sleeve. The core module and the sleeve each include various features providing for a minimum overall size, ease of insertion, removal, and cleaning, and enhanced sound transmission. The tool set is configured to be stored and carried in a single piece and provides for adjustment and cleaning of the CIC hearing aid. Open ear fits and occlusive ear fits are possible using different sleeves. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120087526 | HOUSING FOR A STANDARD FIT HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE - A hearing aid kit includes a standard fit, completely-in-canal (CIC) hearing aid and a hearing aid tool set. The CIC hearing aid is for extended use and includes a core module inserted into a sleeve. The core module and the sleeve each include various features providing for a minimum overall size, ease of insertion, removal, and cleaning, and enhanced sound transmission. The tool set is configured to be stored and carried in a single piece and provides for adjustment and cleaning of the CIC hearing aid. Open ear fits and occlusive ear fits are possible using different sleeves. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120087524 | SYSTEM FOR USING MULTIPLE HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE PROGRAMMERS - This disclosure relates to fitting and adjusting hearing assistance devices, including but not limited to hearing aids, using multiple programmers. A method is provided for using multiple programmers for hearing assistance devices. The method includes automatically detecting the programmers using fitting software on a personal computer. The method also includes communicating with each of the programmers simultaneously using the software to automatically detect hearing assistance devices compatible with the software. In certain variations if hearing assistance devices are detected on more than one programmer, a user is prompted to select a programmer. In certain variations, if hearing assistance devices are detected on one programmer, a fitting session is initiated for the detected hearing assistance devices. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120014549 | RECEIVER-IN-CANAL HEARING DEVICE CABLE CONNECTIONS - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for hearing assistance devices, including, but not limited to connections for receiver-in-canal hearing devices. In various embodiments, a hearing device includes a hearing device component adapted to rest on or behind the ear and hearing assistance electronics disposed in the component. A first connector portion is disposed in the component, the first connector portion electrically connected to the hearing assistance electronics. A second connector portion is adapted to conform to a portion of the component and to electrically and physically connect a cable to the first connector portion. In various embodiments, at least one of the first connector portion and the second connector portion employ scratch pads for contacts. The first connector portion is top loading, in an embodiment. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20110249847 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR EARLY AUDIO FEEDBACK CANCELLATION FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for improved feedback cancellation for hearing assistance devices. In various embodiments the present acoustic feedback cancellation system is configured to identify the onset of acoustic feedback. This early detection is accomplished in a variety of ways, including detection of an exponential rise in a periodic signal which is associated with early acoustic feedback. The present system is very rapid and so it can operate when the conditions surrounding the hearing aid change quickly. It also is useful to not impose feedback cancellation to longer notes that will “fool” less sophisticated acoustic feedback cancellers into thinking the sound is feedback. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249846 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR ALLOCATING FEEDBACK CANCELLATION RESOURCES FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for allocating feedback cancellation resources for improved acoustic feedback cancellation for hearing assistance devices. In various embodiments, a hearing assistance device includes a microphone and a processor configured to receive signals from the microphone and process them according to a plurality of processing blocks. The processor is adapted to include an event detector that can provide detection of an event and an output to adjust one or more processing blocks of the overall process to more efficiently use resources of the processor for the event detected, in various embodiments. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249844 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR IMPROVED NOISE REDUCTION FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for improved noise reduction for hearing assistance devices. In various embodiments, a hearing assistance device includes a microphone and a processor configured to receive signals from the microphone. The processor is configured to perform noise reduction which adjusts maximum gain reduction as a function of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and which reduces the strength of its maximum gain reduction for intermediate signal-to-noise ratio levels to reduce speech distortion. In various embodiments, the hearing assistance device includes a memory configured to log noise reduction data for user environments. Also provided are methods to further adjust the noise reduction based on the logged information. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249842 | RANGE CONTROL FOR WIRELESS HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE SYSTEMS - Disclosed herein, among other things, are apparatus and methods for wireless hearing assistance devices and in particular to a controllable range control for wireless hearing assistance device systems. An advertisement is used to allow the receiver to quickly receive streaming information, thus conserving power. In various embodiments, a system for communications with a hearing assistance device includes a wireless streaming device having a range control. The range control is configured to provide a first range for an advertisement transmission and a second range for a streaming information transmission. The first range is less than the second range, in various embodiments. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249841 | SYSTEM FOR PROGRAMMING SPECIAL FUNCTION BUTTONS FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE APPLICATIONS - Disclosed herein, among other things, are apparatus and methods to provide improved control of hearing assistance devices and hearing assistance applications. The present apparatus and method can be deployed on a hearing aid, a device in communication with the hearing aid, or on both. In one embodiment a programmable control, including, but not limited to a button or switch or sensor or microphone is adapted to provide control of the function or settings of the hearing aid. In one embodiment, a programmable control for a device including, but not limited to a button or switch or sensor or microphone is adapted to provide wireless control of the function or settings of the hearing aid. In various embodiments, a programmable control for the hearing aid and a programmable control of the device are used to provide wireless control of the function or settings of the hearing aid. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249837 | HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE WITH PROGRAMMABLE DIRECT AUDIO INPUT PORT - Disclosed herein, among other things, are apparatus and methods to detect signals connected to a direct audio input port of a hearing assistance device. According to one embodiment, a hearing assistance device includes a processor and a direct audio input (DAI) port including a signal line connected to the processor. The DAI port is configured to connect to an external device, and the processor is programmed to detect audio signals of interest on the signal line and to process the audio signals of interest when detected as programmed. Other embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110249836 | CONTROL OF LOW POWER OR STANDBY MODES OF A HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE - Disclosed herein, among other things, are apparatus and methods to provide improved control of hearing aids and hearing aid applications. In one embodiment, a hearing assistance device includes a microphone, a receiver for playing sound to a wearer, a processor connected to the microphone and the receiver, and a radio connected to the processor. The processor is adapted to enter a low power or standby mode upon receipt of a predetermined command from one or more of the microphone or the radio. The processor is further adapted to exit a low power or standby mode upon receipt of a predetermined command from one or more of the microphone or the radio. Other embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. | 10-13-2011 |
| 20110195676 | EXTERNAL EAR CANAL VOICE DETECTION - Ear-level full duplex audio communication systems each include one or two ear attachment devices, such as in-the-ear (ITE) or behind-the-ear (BTE) devices, that wirelessly communicates to a remote device such as a computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a cellular phone, a walkie talkie, or a language translator. When used as a hearing aid, such a system allows a hearing impaired individual to communicate with or through the remote device, such as to talk to another person through a cellular phone. When being used as an ear piece wirelessly extended from the remote device, such system allows an individual with normal hearing to privately communicate with or through the remote device without the need of holding the device or wearing any device wired to the remote device. Each ear attachment device includes a voice operated exchange (VOX), housed within the device, to preserve energy and hence, maximize the period between battery replacement or recharges. The VOX also gates various sounds detected by the system to control possible echoes and ringing. | 08-11-2011 |
| 20110182452 | FOREIGN MATERIAL MITIGATION FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE COMPONENTS - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for mitigating foreign material buildup for hearing assistance device components. The present subject matter includes coating of at least one surface of a hearing assistance device, such as a hearing aid, with an omniphobic coating, a hydrophilic coating, or a combination of omniphobic and hydrophilic coatings designed to reduce the unwanted effects of wax, moisture and other foreign materials. In various embodiments at least one surface of a receiver with a wax trap or waxceptor in a receiver tube is coated with an omniphobic coating. In various embodiments the present subject matter includes an internal barrier disposed near a receiver in the receiver tube in addition to the wax trap or waxceptor. In various embodiments the internal barrier is coated with an omniphobic coating. In various embodiments at least one surface includes a hydrophilic coating. | 07-28-2011 |
| 20110158442 | NOISE REDUCTION SYSTEM FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein is a system for binaural noise reduction for hearing assistance devices using information generated at a first hearing assistance device and information received from a second hearing assistance device. In various embodiments, the present subject matter provides a gain measurement for noise reduction using information from a second hearing assistance device that is transferred at a lower bit rate or bandwidth by the use of coding for further quantization of the information to reduce the amount of information needed to make a gain calculation at the first hearing assistance device. The present subject matter can be used for hearing aids with wireless or wired connections. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110154261 | USER INTERFACE WITH RIBBON USAGE FOR HEARING AID FITTING SYSTEMS - The present subject matter relates generally to an improved user interface for input and output of information used in fitting systems for hearing aids. In an embodiment the system includes displaying, on a display device, a graphical user interface, wherein the graphical user interface includes a ribbon showing one or more functional category associated with fitting the hearing aid to the wearer, the graphical user interface adapted to display response data of the hearing aid according to data inputted into the one or more functional categories, wherein the data inputted comprises settings data for the one or more functional categories. The system further includes updating the data displayed on the display device in response to receiving changed data inputted into the one or more functional categories of the ribbon. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110150255 | FM RADIO SYSTEM FOR DIGITAL AND ANALOG COMMUNICATIONS FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - The present disclosure relates to the wireless communication of analog and digital information using a modulator adapted to communicate analog information in an analog mode and to communicate digital information in a digital mode using frequency modulated transmissions. A demodulator adapted to receive the modulated information is provided. The present subject matter can be used with hearing assistance devices to communicate voice and data information. Applications of the system include communications with assistive listening devices, hearing aids, and other hearing assistance devices. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110150254 | LOW POWER INTERMITTENT MESSAGING FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - The present subject matter includes a system for communications between a transmitter and a receiver. In various embodiments, the system uses a sleep interval to allow the receiver to go to sleep between wake up times to “sniff” for transmissions from the transmitter. In one variation, the system repeats a transmission for at least a duration of a wake interval. In various embodiments, a receive channel is changed if a signal is not received at a prior channel selection. In various embodiments, the transmission is determined by detection of an event. In various embodiments, the event is an ear-to-ear event. In various embodiments, the receiver and transmitter are in opposite hearing aids adapted to be worn by one wearer. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110150252 | LOW POWER INTERMITTENT MESSAGING FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - The present subject matter includes a system for communications between a transmitter and a receiver. In various embodiments, the system uses a sleep interval to allow the receiver to go to sleep between wake up times to “sniff” for transmissions from the transmitter. The system adjusts the length of the preamble of the transmitted signal or a repetition of packets to allow the receiver to detect a transmitted signal based on drift in the clocks of the system. In various embodiments, a receive channel is changed if a signal is not received at a prior channel selection. In various embodiments, the transmission is determined by detection of an event. In various embodiments, the event is an ear-to-ear event. In various embodiments, the receiver and transmitter are in opposite hearing aids adapted to be worn by one wearer. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110150251 | LOW POWER INTERMITTENT MESSAGING FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - The present subject matter includes a system for communications between a transmitter and a receiver. In various embodiments, the system uses a sleep interval to allow the receiver to go to sleep between wake up times to “sniff” for transmissions from the transmitter. The system adjusts the length of the preamble of the transmitted signal to allow the receiver to detect a transmitted signal based on drift in the clocks of the system. In various embodiments, a receive channel is changed if a signal is not received at a prior channel selection. In various embodiments, the transmission is determined by detection of an event. In various embodiments, the event is an ear-to-ear event. In various embodiments, the receiver and transmitter are in opposite hearing aids adapted to be worn by one wearer. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110150232 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TESTING BINAURAL HEARING AID FUNCTION - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for identifying one or more defective hearing aids. The present system provides a dichotic sound to the wearer that can be used to sense whether the aids are properly operating. Different types of dichotic sounds can be presented within the scope of the present subject matter. In various applications a Huggins pitch, a binaural edge pitch, a binaural coherence edge pitch, a Fourcin pitch or a dichotic repetition pitch is used for the dichotic sound. The pitch may be a pure-tone or complex-tone pitch. Various pure-tone frequencies and complex-tone fundamental frequencies may be used and may be customized for a particular application. In various applications, a dichotic sound is formed using left and right sounds each of which includes a noise and a desired signal component. The present system can be realized in a variety of implementations. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110150231 | ACOUSTIC FEEDBACK EVENT MONITORING SYSTEM FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - The present disclosure relates to tracking of acoustic feedback events of a hearing assistance device, such as a hearing aid. Information about the acoustic feedback events is stored for analysis. Such information is useful for programming acoustic feedback cancellers and other parameters of a hearing assistance device. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110137656 | SOUND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM FOR HEARING AIDS - A hearing aid includes a sound classification module to classify environmental sound sensed by a microphone. The sound classification module executes an advanced sound classification algorithm. The hearing aid then processes the sound according to the classification. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110116667 | METHOD AND APPARATUS TO REDUCE ENTRAINMENT-RELATED ARTIFACTS FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS - A system providing method and apparatus to detect occurrence of an entrainment artifact and address it. The system analyzing a feedback canceller filter for certain characteristics that are associated with an entrained filter. When an entrained filter is detected, the feedback canceller filter is reset to a good filter that ideally represents the current approximate external acoustic feedback path without the characteristics of the entraining signal. | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110098551 | MEASUREMENT OF SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL AND PHASE AT EARDRUM BY SENSING EARDRUM VIBRATION - A hearing assistance device for measuring sound pressure at a tympanic membrane of a user's ear, the device comprising a housing adapted to be worn at least partially in an ear canal of the user a laser source coupled to the housing and adapted to project a beam of laser energy at the tympanic membrane a sensor for receiving reflected laser energy directed at the tympanic membrane, and a processor connected to the sensor and adapted to estimate the sound pressure level and phase at the tympanic membrane from a signal generated from the sensor. Additional examples provide a hearing device for measuring sound pressure at the tympanic membrane using ultrasonic signals. Further examples provide a hearing device for measuring sound pressure at the tympanic membrane using magnetic sources and sensors. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110091059 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BEHIND-THE-EAR HEARING AID WITH CAPACITIVE SENSOR - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for a behind-the-ear hearing aid with a capacitive sensor. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110091058 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IN-THE-EAR HEARING AID WITH CAPACITIVE SENSOR - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for an in-the-ear hearing aid with a capacitive sensor. The present subject matter includes various approaches to improved control of an in-the-ear (ITE) hearing aid with capacitive sensors. In various embodiments, the capacitive sensor serves as a capacitive switch or a plurality of capacitive switches that can be used together to support or perform one or more functions. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110091049 | OUTPUT PHASE MODULATION ENTRAINMENT CONTAINMENT FOR DIGITAL FILTERS - Method and apparatus for entrainment containment in digital filters using output phase modulation. Phase change is gradually introduced into the acoustic feedback canceller loop to avoid entrainment of the feedback canceller filter. Various embodiments employing different output phase modulation approaches are set forth and time and frequency domain examples are provided. Additional method and apparatus can be found in the specification and as provided by the attached claims and their equivalents. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110090837 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM FOR WIRELESS AUDIO DEVICES - The present subject matter provides a system for wireless communications between one or more wireless audio devices and other electronics for providing a rich set of streaming audio, control, programming and enhanced hearing functions. | 04-21-2011 |
| 20110085687 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR USING TEXT MESSAGES TO DISTRIBUTE RING TONES TO ADJUST HEARING AIDS - The present subject matter relates generally to methods and apparatus for using text messages to distribute ring tones to adjust and fit hearing assistance devices. In an embodiment, a text message is programmed including information regarding a hearing assistance device adjustment for a wearer. The text message identifies a ring tone playback sequence associated with the adjustment, and is sent to a cellular telephone via a text messaging network. When the ring tone playback sequence is played on the cellular telephone, the hearing assistance device senses the sequence and makes the programmed adjustment. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110075870 | RADIO WITH MEMS DEVICE FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein, among other things, are methods and apparatus for wireless electronics using a MEMS device for a hearing assistance device. The present application relates to a hearing assistance device configured to be worn by a wearer, including: a housing for electronics of the hearing assistance device, including wireless electronics, the wireless electronics including one or more MEMS devices; and a hearing assistance processor adapted to process signals for the wearer of the hearing assistance device. In various embodiments, the one or more MEMS devices include a plurality of MEMS resonators In various embodiments, the hearing assistance device includes one or more microphones and the hearing assistance processor is adapted to perform hearing aid signal processing of signals received from the one or more microphones. In various embodiments, the processed signals produce a signal to be played by the receiver. Different configurations and approaches are provided. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110055120 | GENETIC ALGORITHMS WITH ROBUST RANK ESTIMATION FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein, among other things, is a method for fitting a hearing assistance device for a user using a genetic algorithm. Stimulus pairs are presented to the user using a computer, the stimulus pairs adapted to provide contrasting options for selection from a set of stimuli stored in the computer. Inputs are received from the user entered into the computer, including preference judgments of the user. A score is calculated for each stimulus of the pair using the computer to execute a rank agreement function to maximize agreement between scores and the preference judgments. A set of genes is selected based on the scores, where the set of genes correspond to hearing assistance device parameters. The set of genes is operated on with a genetic algorithm using the assigned scores to obtain a child set of genes. The child set is used to provide parameter values during fitting. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110044485 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AN INSULATED ELECTROMAGNETIC SHIELD FOR USE IN HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - The present subject matter of the invention relates generally to the management of electromagnetic fields in hearing assistance devices, such as hearing aids, and in particular to an insulated electromagnetic shield design for hearing assistance devices. The present disclosure includes various embodiments for electromagnetic shielding of a receiver using a magnetic shield that is electrically insulated from the receiver casing and electronics. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110044483 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SPECIALIZED GESTURE SENSING FOR FITTING HEARING AIDS - The present subject matter relates generally to method and apparatus for sensing gestures for fitting hearing aids. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20110044482 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TAGGING PATIENT SESSIONS FOR FITTING HEARING AIDS - The present subject matter relates generally to the method and apparatus for storing tags during a fitting session. The tags may be used to store information useful for an audiologist, a manufacturer of hearing aids, and a manufacturer of fitting software. The software adapted to provide searching based on tags. The software able to provide pre-programmed tags for use by the user. In various applications the software programmable to automatically generate tags upon occurrence of one or more conditions. | 02-24-2011 |
| 20100322447 | MICROPHONE ASSEMBLY COMPRISING MAGNETICALLY ACTIVATABLE ELEMENT FOR SIGNAL SWITCHING AND FIELD INDICATION - A microphone assembly comprising a transducer for receiving sound and outputting a corresponding control signal. The assembly also comprises means for detecting a magnetic field and outputting a signal relating to the field. A hearing aid comprising the assembly has a processor receiving the control signal and selecting between the microphone signal and a signal relating to the magnetic field, such as a signal received from a telephone hand set or a telecoil. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100312533 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MATHEMATICALLY CHARACTERIZING EAR CANAL GEOMETRY - The present subject matter provides apparatus and methods for physically fitting a hearing assistance device, including mathematically characterizing a person's ear canal. The apparatus includes a housing adapted to be mechanically coupled to the person in proximity to the person's outer ear. An ultrasonic transducer array is located within at least a portion of the housing. The apparatus includes electronics within the housing, the electronics adapted to control the transducer array to alternate between transmitting and receiving ultrasonic energy. In various embodiments, a processor is adapted to characterize geometry of the ear canal using information from the ultrasonic transducer array obtained from scans of the ear canal. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100284557 | FREQUENCY TRANSLATION BY HIGH-FREQUENCY SPECTRAL ENVELOPE WARPING IN HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein, among other things, is a system for frequency translation by high-frequency spectral envelope warping in hearing assistance devices. The present subject matter relates to improved speech intelligibility in a hearing assistance device using frequency translation by high-frequency spectral envelope warping. The system described herein implements an algorithm for performing frequency translation in an audio signal processing device for the purpose of improving perceived sound quality and speech intelligibility in an audio signal when presented using a system having reduced bandwidth relative to the original signal, or when presented to a hearing-impaired listener sensitive to only a reduced range of acoustic frequencies. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100271373 | FITTING SYSTEM WITH INTELLIGENT VISUAL TOOLS - A fitting system with intelligent visual tools may included calculating a response curve of a hearing assistance device, wherein the response curve indicating sound level pressure level compared to frequency. Additionally it may include, displaying, on a display device, the response curve and displaying concurrently with the response curve, a visual cue, wherein the visual cue represents data including at least one of: gain of the response curve, a comparison between a target response curve and the response curve, and a comparison between binaural response curve. | 10-28-2010 |
| 20100260364 | HEARING ASSISTANCE SYSTEM WITH OWN VOICE DETECTION - An example of an apparatus configured to be worn by a person who has an ear and an ear canal includes a first microphone adapted to be worn about the ear of the person, and a second microphone adapted to be worn at a different location than the first microphone. The apparatus includes a sound processor adapted to process signals from the first microphone to produce a processed sound signal, a receiver adapted to convert the processed sound signal into an audible signal to the wearer of the hearing assistance device, and a voice detector to detect the voice of the wearer. The voice detector includes an adaptive filter to receive signals from the first microphone and the second microphone. | 10-14-2010 |
| 20100246869 | SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC FITTING USING REAL EAR MEASUREMENT - According to a method embodiment for performing a real ear measurement (REM), a stimulus signal is transformed into a frequency domain stimulus signal with a plurality of frequency ranges. The frequency domain stimulus signal is amplified with a desired gain for each of the plurality of frequency ranges to provide an amplified stimulus signal. The amplified stimulus signal is transformed into the acoustic signal in the ear canal, which is detected to provide a detected acoustic signal, and the detected acoustic signal is transformed into a frequency domain detected signal with the plurality of frequency ranges. A sound level for the plurality of frequency ranges is measured. The desired gain for the frequency ranges is automatically adjusted based on the measured sound levels and the desired sound pressure levels for the plurality of frequency ranges. The method can be performed within a hearing assistance apparatus. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100202642 | METHOD TO ESTIMATE THE SOUND PRESSURE LEVEL AT EARDRUM USING MEASUREMENTS AWAY FROM THE EARDRUM - A method for measuring sound pressure at a tympanic membrane of a wearer's ear including a high frequency range with a hearing assistance device. The hearing assistance device comprises a processor connected to a sensor in the ear canal. The device provides a measure of the sound pressure level at the tympanic membrane of the wearer using a null frequency and a null Q measured at a distant position away from the tympanic membrane. The method does not require a precise knowledge of the ear canal, nor does it require an elaborate calibration step. In various embodiments, the present approach works at low and high frequencies. | 08-12-2010 |
| 20100173599 | AUTOMATIC GAIN CONTROL WITH OUT OF BAND BLOCKING SIGNAL COMPENSATION - One embodiment of the present subject matter includes a method of receiving an input signal. The method, in various embodiments, includes detecting a peak of the input signal and detecting an envelope of the input signal. In various embodiments, the peak and envelope are used to identify out-of-band blocking signals and to adjust gain control. The method also includes comparing the peak to a first threshold Tp and comparing the envelope to a second threshold Te. In the method, if the peak is above the first threshold and the envelope is below the second threshold, then ignoring the input signal. If the envelope is above the second threshold, the method includes applying automatic gain control to decode information encoded in the input signal. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100172531 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE MICROPHONES - One embodiment of the present subject matter includes an apparatus, including: a microphone to convert sound into a signal; and an electrically adjustable shutter including conductive polymer, the shutter in acoustic communication with the microphone and configured to provide an adjustable acoustic resistance to the microphone. Variations include conductive traces adapted to apply an electric signal to the conductive polymer. In some embodiments a diaphragm in acoustic communication with the shutter configured to detect acoustic energy is included. The present subject matter also provides methods including, but not limited to a method for operating a microphone in a hearing assistance device, including measuring acoustic energy detected by a diaphragm in acoustic communication with a shutter via a conduit, and controllably adjusting an acoustic resistance of the shutter with an electric signal to change directionality of the microphone. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100172529 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING USER ACTIVITIES FROM WITHIN A HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE USING A VIBRATION SENSOR - The present subject matter relates to method and apparatus for detecting user activities within a hearing assistance device, and among other things, apparatus including a microphone for reception of sound and to generate a sound signal; an electret vibration sensor adapted to measure mechanical vibration and to produce a vibration signal; a signal processor, connected to the microphone and in communication with the electret vibration sensor, the signal processor adapted to process the sound signal and to process the vibration signal; and a housing adapted to house the signal processor. Variations provide a housing, microphone, and receiver in different configurations. In some variations wireless electronics are included and are used to communicate different signals. In some examples, the design is embodied in a variety of hearing aid configurations. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100172524 | HEARING AIDS AND METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR AUDIO FITTING THEREOF - A field ready, unsupervised-use ready, method and apparatus for audio fitting a hearing aid is described in a hand held configuration having paired comparisons (hearing selections) stored in and derivable from a memory therein. The paired comparisons are presented one at a time to a user and a preferred selection for each paired comparison is made by a select indicator after the user toggles back and forth between the selections for as many times necessary in determining their preferences. A genetic algorithm converges all the preferences upon a single solution. Crossover and mutation genetic algorithm operators operate on a linear range of indexes representative of parametric values of the pairs. A fully integrated hearing aid having all the above described features incorporated therein is also presented. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100172523 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DETECTING USER ACTIVITIES FROM WITHIN A HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE USING A VIBRATION SENSOR - The present subject matter relates to method and apparatus for processing sound by a hearing assistance device. In one example, the present subject matter is an apparatus for processing sound for a hearing assistance device, comprising: a microphone adapted for reception of the sound and to create a sound signal relating to the sound; a transducer that produces an output voltage related to motion; a signal processor, connected to the microphone and the transducer, the signal processor adapted to process the sound signal and the output voltage, the signal processor performing a vibration detection algorithm adapted to adjust hearing assistance device settings for a detected activity; and a housing adapted to house the signal processor. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100172507 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASUREMENT OF GAIN MARGIN OF A HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE - Method and apparatus for determination of gain margin of a hearing assistance device under test. In varying examples, the impulse response for multiple levels can be taken and used to arrive at a gain margin. The method and apparatus, in various examples, process critical portions of the resulting data for efficient processing and to increase accuracy of measurements. The method and apparatus performing a plurality of measurements to determine impulse responses and to derive gain margin as a function of frequency therefrom. The present subject matter includes principles which may are adapted for use within a hearing assistance device using a single white noise stimulus, according to one example. The principles set forth herein can be applied to occluding and non-occluding hearing device embodiments. Additional method and apparatus can be found in the specification and as provided by the attached claims and their equivalents. | 07-08-2010 |
| 20100158293 | PARALLEL ANTENNAS FOR STANDARD FIT HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - An embodiment of a hearing assistance device comprises a housing, a power source, a radio circuit, an antenna and a transmission line. The radio circuit is within the housing and electrically connected to the power source. The antenna has an aperture, and the radio circuit is at least substantially within the aperture. The transmission line electrically connects to the antenna to the radio circuit. Various antenna embodiments include a flex circuit antenna. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100142738 | REMOTE CONTROL OF HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus of communicating instructions to a hearing assistance device, such as a hearing aid. In various embodiments instructions are formed using tones sent to the hearing assistance device. The instructions can be used to control the operation of the hearing assistance device. The signals may include dual tone multifunction signals or other nonstandard signals. Various detection processes are provided which include but are not limited to using a modified complex Goertzel algorithm to detect tones. The remote device can be a standard device or can be modified to provide the proper signals. The following techniques can be applied to hearing assistance devices including, but not limited to completely-in-the-canal devices, in-the-canal devices, behind-the-ear devices, receiver-in-canal devices, and implanted devices, such as cochlear implants. | 06-10-2010 |
| 20100135513 | RADIO FREQUENCY SHIELDING FOR RECEIVERS WITHIN HEARING AIDS AND LISTENING DEVICES - Method and apparatus are disclosed for reducing or eliminating the interference produced by a receiver in a listening device, such as a hearing aid. The method and apparatus of the invention involves placing an electrically conductive shield around the receiver. Such a shield helps suppress the electromagnetic signals emitted by the receiver, thereby reducing or eliminating the interference from the receiver. The shield is a passive shield and may be one or more wires that are wound around the receiver and shorted together, or it may be an electrically conductive mesh, jacket, sleeve, or the like, that is placed around the receiver. The shield is then connected either to one of the input terminals of the receiver, or to a system ground of the receiver. | 06-03-2010 |
| 20100124346 | MODULAR CONNECTION ASSEMBLY FOR A HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE - The present subject matter relates to an improved connection assembly for hearing assistance devices. The improved connection assembly provides a connection system that is reliable, straightforward to manufacture, and easy to use. The present connection assembly provides a rapid replacement option for the cable and/or the receiver or other electronics connected to the cable. The present subject matter provides for a connection assembly that can be extended to provide connections for a variety of applications which are not limited to a speaker (receiver) in the ear. Sensors and new configurations of component placement are supported using the present assembly, including, but not limited to telecoils, and GMR or TMR sensors. Various electromagnetic interference issues are addressed. In some examples a shielded set of wires are included. In some examples a twisted pair of wires is included. Various combinations of wires for different applications are supported with the present connector system. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100103404 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A SINGLE POINT SCANNER - The present subject matter include methods and apparatus for creating three dimensional digitized models of at least one ear impression, the apparatus comprising a frame, a linear axis mounted to the frame, the linear axis having an axis of motion, a first spindle axis mounted to the frame, the spindle axis having an axis of rotation, wherein the axis of rotation of the first spindle axis is parallel to the axis of motion of the linear axis, a first scanner mounted to the linear axis, the scanner includes a laser for projecting a narrowly localized spot of laser light at a target mounted on the first spindle axis and a sensor array for receiving at least a portion of the laser light reflected from the target and a controller configured to communicate with the first scanner. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100074461 | ANTENNAS FOR HEARING AIDS - An antenna configured in a hybrid circuit provides a compact design for a hearing aid to communicate wirelessly with a system external to the hearing aid. In an embodiment, an antenna includes metallic traces in a hybrid circuit that is configured for use in a hearing aid. The antenna includes contacts in the hybrid circuit to couple the metallic traces to electronic devices in the hybrid circuit. In an embodiment, the metallic traces form a planar coil design having a number of turns of the coil in a substrate in the hybrid circuit. In another embodiment, the metallic traces are included in a flex circuit on a substrate in the hybrid circuit. An antenna configured in a hybrid circuit allows for use in a completely-in-the-canal hearing aid. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100054512 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION LINKS FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Various system embodiments comprise a plurality of devices adapted to wirelessly communicate with each other. The plurality of devices includes a battery-operated hearing assistance device adapted to be worn by a person. The hearing aid device includes a signal processing circuitry connected to a microphone and a receiver. At least one of the plurality of devices includes a link quality management device adapted to assess a link quality for a first wireless communication channel, provide channel metrics indicative of the assessed quality for the first wireless communication channel, and adjust wireless communication over the first wireless communication channel using the channel metrics for the first wireless communication channel. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100034410 | HEARING AID ADAPTED FOR EMBEDDED ELECTRONICS - A hearing aid comprising a microphone, a receiver, hearing aid electronics coupled to the microphone and the receiver, and conductive traces overlaying an insulator, the conductive traces configured to interconnect the hearing aid electronics and to follow non-planar contours of the insulator. Examples are provided wherein the insulator includes a hearing aid housing. | 02-11-2010 |
| 20090323992 | MICROPHONE PLACEMENT IN HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES TO PROVIDE CONTROLLED DIRECTIVITY - The present disclosure includes various methods and apparatus for controlling directionality of a hearing assistance device including a pair of directional microphones. In various examples, the hearing assistance device includes a pair of directional microphones and an omnidirectional microphone. In various examples, the hearing assistance device includes a directional microphone and an omnidirectional microphone. In examples with multiple directional microphones, various angles can be employed. For example, in some applications the first directional axis can be about ninety degrees offset of the second directional axis. The microphones are aligned with an intended direction of reception in some embodiments. In some examples the microphones are not aligned with an intended direction of reception. Other variations are possible without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090316922 | SYSTEM FOR MEASURING MAXIMUM STABLE GAIN IN HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - This disclosure relates to measurement of maximum stable gain of a hearing assistance device, including but not limited to hearing aids, as a function of frequency. In various approaches an adaptive filter with a variable step size is used to determine maximum stable gain as a function of frequency. In various approaches, the determination is done in process steps performed by the hearing assistance device. In various approaches, the determination is done in process steps performed by the hearing assistance device and by a host computer. | 12-24-2009 |
| 20090306517 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MATHEMATICALLY CHARACTERIZING EAR CANAL GEOMETRY - The present subject matter provides apparatus and methods for physically fitting a hearing assistance device, including mathematically characterizing a person's ear canal. The apparatus includes an expandable balloon for positioning in the ear canal, the balloon including a hollow interior channel. A flexible catheter extends through the interior portion of the balloon, and the flexible catheter includes a track. A platform is movably coupled to the track. An ultrasonic transducer and a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensor are coupled to the platform. The ultrasonic transducer scans the ear canal and the MEMS sensor senses motion and position of the transducer. According to various embodiments, a mathematical representation of the ear canal is adapted to be computed using information from the transducer and sensor. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090296944 | COMPRESSION AND MIXING FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - This application relates to a system for compression and mixing for hearing assistance devices by application of compression to individual sound sources before mixing, according to one example. Variations of the present system using surround sound provide separate signals from a surround sound synthesizer which are compressed prior to mixing of the signals. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090290739 | MIXING OF IN-THE-EAR MICROPHONE AND OUTSIDE-THE-EAR MICROPHONE SIGNALS TO ENHANCE SPATIAL PERCEPTION - This document provides a hearing assistance device for playing processed sound inside a wearer's ear canal, the hearing assistance device comprising a first housing, signal processing electronics disposed at least partially within the first housing, a first microphone connected to the first housing, the first microphone adapted for reception of sound, a second microphone configured to receive sound from inside the wearer's ear canal when the hearing assistance device is worn and in use and microphone mixing electronics in communication with the signal processing electronics and in communication with the first microphone and the second microphone, the microphone mixing electronics adapted to combine low frequency information from the first microphone and high frequency information from the second microphone to produce a composite audio signal. | 11-26-2009 |
| 20090279726 | GENETIC ALGORITHMS WITH SUBJECTIVE INPUT FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein, among other things, is an apparatus for fitting a hearing assistance device using a genetic algorithm. The apparatus includes a first population of a plurality of parent sets representing at least one device parameter. A first pair from the parent sets is presented with assistance of the hearing assistance device, the first pair comprising a first and second set. A user selects a preference between the first and second sets. A child set is determined by operating on at least one set of the plurality of parent sets. The child set can include a crossover of the at least one parent set, where the crossover includes an arithmetic or geometrical operation to parameter values of the parent set, or a mutation of the at least one parent set, where the mutation includes replacing a lowest ranked parameter value in the parent set with a randomly generated parameter value. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090252365 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MICROPHONES SHARING A COMMON ACOUSTIC VOLUME - The present subject matter provides method and apparatus for improved microphones sharing an acoustic volume. Some embodiments are useful for hearing assistance devices. Examples of an improved microphone module offering omnidirectional and directional microphone capsules are provided. Different mounting and interconnection embodiments are provided. Different electrical connector embodiments are discussed. Improvements in space and performance, and other efficiencies, are provided by the teachings set forth herein. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090245560 | REAL EAR MEASUREMENT ADAPTOR WITH INTERNAL SOUND CONDUIT - Methods and apparatus for a hearing assistance device housing for use in real ear measurements. The methods and apparatus for configuration of a hearing assistance device using an apparatus including an opening to receive a sound tube for real ear measurements and providing an opening for connection of a sound hook to a housing of the hearing assistance device. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090245552 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC DETECTION AND ATTENUATION OF PERIODIC ACOUSTIC FEEDBACK - A method for processing signals including an input, an output and a signal processor, comprising detecting a first periodic signal received at an input, adjusting frequency or phase of the first periodic signal in response to detecting the first periodic signal, comparing an amplitude of the first periodic signal before adjusting the frequency or phase to the amplitude after adjusting the frequency or phase to produce a first amplitude change and determining whether the first periodic signal is an acoustic feedback signal based on the first amplitude change. Apparatus including signal processing electronics to receive an input signal from a microphone and programmed to provide phase or frequency changes to signals in a processing channel and to detect periodic feedback signals based on the changes of signals in the processing channel, and a speaker. Variations include feedback reduction or cancellation systems and phase or frequency adjustment systems. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090245525 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REAL-EAR MEASUREMENTS FOR RECEIVER-IN-CANAL DEVICES - The present subject matter provides method and apparatus for real ear measurement using a hearing assistance device fitted with a cover to provide real ear sounds to a microphone of the device. The present subject matter includes a hearing assistance device cover for use in measuring coupler response and real ear coupler difference for improved real ear measurement and fitting. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090196444 | ANTENNA USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE CONDUCTORS FOR AN AUDIO TRANSDUCER - A hearing assistance device to provide sound to the ear of a user, the device comprising a housing, hearing assistance electronics enclosed in the housing, an acoustic transducer adapted to be worn in the ear, a cable assembly adapted to connect the acoustic transducer to the hearing assistance electronics, a wireless communications receiver connected to the hearing assistance electronics, and an antenna comprising one or more conductors forming at least a portion of the cable assembly. | 08-06-2009 |
| 20090154741 | SYSTEM FOR CUSTOMIZING HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICES - Disclosed herein, among other things, is a system for customizing a hearing assistance device for a wearer. According to various embodiments, data corresponding to the wearer's acoustic environment is logged using the hearing assistance device. In various embodiments, the hearing assistance device is fitted by an adaptive fitting process controlled by the wearer, the adaptive fitting process having access to the data logged by the hearing assistance device to customize settings of the hearing assistance device for the wearer. In an embodiment, data related to fitting the hearing assistance device is sent via a network connection to a location accessible by the wearer's audiologist and/or device manufacturer. The sent data is used to create an interactive database, and the database is used for fitting hearing assistance devices for one or more wearers, in various embodiments. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090116657 | SIMULATED SURROUND SOUND HEARING AID FITTING SYSTEM - This application relates to a system for fitting a hearing aid by testing the hearing aid patient with a three-dimensional sound field having one or more localized sound sources. In one embodiment, a signal processing system employing head-related transfer functions is used to produce audio signals that simulate a three-dimensional sound field when a sound source driven by such audio signals is coupled directly to one or both ears. By transmitting the audio signals produced by the signal processing system to the hearing aid by means of a wired or wireless connection, the hearing aid itself may be used as the sound source. | 05-07-2009 |
| 20090097683 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE USING MEMS SENSORS - The present subject application relates to hearing assistance systems and in particular to a method and apparatus for detecting user activities from within a hearing assistance system using micro electro-mechanical structure sensors. Such benefits include the reduction of the ampclusion effect and other excessive sound pressure buildup in the residual air volume of the ear canal for a person wearing a hearing assistance device with an earmold. | 04-16-2009 |
| 20090074218 | System for Hearing Assistance Device Including Receiver in the Canal - The present subject matter includes a hearing assistance device connection system for a user having an ear canal comprising a housing, electronics disposed in the housing, a cable electrically connected to the receiver and at least one conductive silicone component to electrically connect the electronics to the receiver. | 03-19-2009 |
| 20090016554 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MODULAR HEARING AID - A method and apparatus for a modular hearing aid for a user having a hearing canal, including a microphone connected to signal processing electronics and a power supply, a housing shaped for use in at least a portion of the hearing canal and including at least one opening and a microphone hood detachably connected to the opening in the housing, wherein the microphone hood includes one or more external ports linked to an internal port such that air may flow between the one or more external ports and the internal port. In various examples, a microphone housing is adapted to mount to the housing and to fit within the at least one access port, and to connect to the microphone, the signal processing electronics and the power supply. In one variant, the apparatus includes a receiver connected to the signal processing electronics, and a fastener as a unitary connector of the cover and microphone housing to the housing. Other variations are presented herein. | 01-15-2009 |
| 20080310660 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE USING SUPERHYDROPHOBIC COATINGS - The present subject matter includes methods and apparatus for coating of hearing assistance devices with superhydrophobic coatings designed to reduce the foregoing unwanted effects of wax, moisture and other unwanted materials. In some embodiments a superhydrophobic nanocoating is used to resist accumulation of wax, moisture and other unwanted materials near a transducer of a hearing assistance device, including, but not limited to hearing aids. | 12-18-2008 |
| 20080304685 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MODULAR HEARING AID - A method and apparatus for a modular hearing aid for a user having a hearing canal, including a housing adapted to fit within at least a portion of the hearing canal, and having at least one access port, a cover adapted for at least partially covering the at least one access port, and signal processing electronics connected to a microphone and a power supply. In various examples, a microphone housing is adapted to mount to the housing and to fit within the at least one access port, and to connect to the microphone, the signal processing electronics and the power supply. In one variant, the apparatus includes a receiver connected to the signal processing electronics, and a fastener as a unitary connector of the cover and microphone housing to the housing. Other variations are presented herein. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080304684 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A HEARING ASSISTANCE SYSTEM WITH ADAPTIVE BULK DELAY - A hearing assistance system having adjustable bulk delay for cancellation of a time varying acoustic feedback path. The hearing assistance system including an FIR filter, coefficient update module, and delay rules module for programmable adaptive filtering. The hearing assistance system adjustable for continuous bulk delay adjustments. The hearing assistance system providing a number of coefficient update routines, including, but not limited to an LMS coefficient update process and a normalized LMS coefficient update process. | 12-11-2008 |
| 20080292126 | HEARING ASSISTANCE DEVICE WITH CAPACITIVE SWITCH - Disclosed herein, among other things, is a hearing assistance device apparatus with a capacitive switch. According to various embodiments, the apparatus includes a BTE housing, hearing assistance electronics housed in the housing and a capacitive switch connected to the hearing assistance electronics and adapted to detect a wearer when the BTE housing is worn. | 11-27-2008 |
| 20080260191 | EXTERNAL EAR CANAL VOICE DETECTION - Ear-level full duplex audio communication systems each include one or two ear attachment devices, such as in-the-ear (ITE) or behind-the-ear (BTE) devices, that wirelessly communicates to a remote device such as a computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a cellular phone, a walkie talkie, or a language translator. When used as a hearing aid, such a system allows a hearing impaired individual to communicate with or through the remote device, such as to talk to another person through a cellular phone. When being used as an ear piece wirelessly extended from the remote device, such system allows an individual with normal hearing to privately communicate with or through the remote device without the need of holding the device or wearing any device wired to the remote device. Each ear attachment device includes a voice operated exchange (VOX), housed within the device, to preserve energy and hence, maximize the period between battery replacement or recharges. The VOX also gates various sounds detected by the system to control possible echoes and ringing. | 10-23-2008 |
