EP1489884A2 - Method for operating an acoustic prosthesis and acoustic prosthesis with a microphone system wherin different directional characteristics are selectable - Google Patents

Method for operating an acoustic prosthesis and acoustic prosthesis with a microphone system wherin different directional characteristics are selectable Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1489884A2
EP1489884A2 EP04013165A EP04013165A EP1489884A2 EP 1489884 A2 EP1489884 A2 EP 1489884A2 EP 04013165 A EP04013165 A EP 04013165A EP 04013165 A EP04013165 A EP 04013165A EP 1489884 A2 EP1489884 A2 EP 1489884A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
microphone
signal
signal level
directional
signals
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Granted
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EP04013165A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1489884B1 (en
EP1489884A3 (en
Inventor
Eghart Fischer
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Sivantos GmbH
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Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH
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    • 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
    • H04R25/43—Electronic input selection or mixing based on input signal analysis, e.g. mixing or selection between microphone and telecoil or between microphones with different directivity characteristics
    • 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
    • H04R25/40—Arrangements for obtaining a desired directivity characteristic
    • H04R25/407—Circuits for combining signals of a plurality of transducers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2410/00—Microphones
    • H04R2410/01—Noise reduction using microphones having different directional characteristics

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for operating a hearing aid with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter, the microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, of which Microphone signals go out and the directional characteristics different Have order, and being the directional characteristic the microphone system during operation of the hearing aid is changeable.
  • the invention further relates to a Hearing aid for performing the method.
  • Classification devices are found in modern hearing aids of listening situations use. Depending on the listening situation the transmission parameters of the hearing aid are automatic varied.
  • the classification can include influence have on the operation of noise suppression algorithms as well as the microphone system. For example selected depending on the recognized hearing situation (switched discretely or continuously blended) between one omnidirectional polar pattern (polar pattern zero order) and a clear directivity of the microphone system (Polar pattern of first or higher order).
  • Gradient microphones are used to generate the directional characteristic used or multiple omnidirectional microphones electrically interconnected.
  • Such microphone systems show a frequency-dependent transmission behavior in which a there is a clear drop to low frequencies.
  • the noise behavior of the microphones is frequency-independent and slightly compared to an omnidirectional microphone strengthened. To achieve a natural sound impression the high-pass frequency response of the microphone system can be compensated for by amplifying the low frequencies.
  • the noise present in the low frequency range is thereby also reinforced and, under certain circumstances, clear and disturbing audible, while soft noises are masked by the noise.
  • a hearing aid with a Signal processing unit and at least two microphones the different to form directional microphone systems Order can be interconnected, the directional microphone systems in turn in the frequency of that of the Microphones emitted microphone signals depending on the weighting are interconnectable. Depending on the result the cutoff frequency between adjacent Frequency bands where a different Weighting of the microphone signals is provided become.
  • a hearing aid with directional microphone system is known from EP 0 942 627 A2 with a signal processing device, a handset and several microphones known, the output signals for Generation of an individual directional microphone characteristic via Delay devices and the signal processing device Can be interconnected in different weightings are.
  • the preferred one Reception direction (main direction) in adaptation to one present hearing situation can be adjusted individually.
  • the directional microphone signal Microphones will be in the range of low signal frequencies Amplitude amplified and the microphone signal of the omnidirectional Microphones adjusted. To generate one if possible linear frequency response is in the directional microphone signal path Microphones provided an equalizer, the microphone signal in the lower frequency range. Both that Microphone signal of the omnidirectional microphone as well The directional microphone microphone signal is finally a switching unit fed. In a first switch position the switchover unit is the omnidirectional microphone and in a second switch position of the switchover unit Directional microphone connected to a hearing aid amplifier. The switching unit can depend on the signal level automatically switch a microphone signal.
  • a disadvantage of the known hearing aids with a directional microphone system is that when switching between different Directional characteristics of the microphone system or with a quick transition from a directional characteristic to a different level jump and thus artifacts become.
  • the object of the present invention is in a hearing aid Artifacts from rapid changes in the directional characteristic to avoid the microphone system.
  • the microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, of which Microphone signals go out and the directional characteristics different Have order, and being the directional characteristic the microphone system during operation of the hearing aid is changeable, solved in that at least a microphone unit the signal level of the microphone unit outgoing microphone signal the signal level of a Reference signal is adjusted.
  • the task is also carried out with a hearing aid of the method with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter, the Microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, from which emit microphone signals and the directional characteristics have different order, and being the directional characteristic the microphone system during the operation of the Hearing aid is changeable, solved by means of adjustment the signal level of at least one from a microphone unit outgoing microphone signal to the signal level of a Reference signal.
  • the hearing aid according to the invention comprises a microphone system with at least two microphones for directional characteristics zero and first order. Preferably however, there are more than two microphones, so that directional characteristics of second and higher order possible are.
  • the hearing aid device further comprises a signal processing unit for processing and frequency dependent Amplification of the microphone signal generated by the microphone system.
  • the signal is usually output by an acoustic signal Output signal using a handset. But there are also known other types of output converters, e.g. vibrations produce.
  • a microphone unit with a directional characteristic first order can for example through a single gradient microphone or the electrical Connection of two omnidirectional microphones implemented become.
  • first order directional microphones is a theoretical one achievable maximum value of the directive index (DI) of 6 dB (hypercardioid).
  • DI directive index
  • Directional microphones second and higher order have DI values of 10 dB and more, for example for better speech intelligibility are advantageous.
  • a hearing aid contains a microphone system with three omnidirectional microphones, for example can be based on this by suitable connection of the microphones at the same time microphone units with directional characteristics zero to second order can be realized.
  • a single omnidirectional microphone provides one Microphone unit represents zero order. Is with two omnidirectional Microphones delay the microphone signal of a microphone, inverted and to the microphone signal of the other microphone added, this creates a first-order microphone unit. Again, with two first order microphone units the microphone signal of a microphone unit is delayed, inverted and the microphone signal of the second microphone unit added first order, this results in a microphone unit with second order polar pattern. Leave this way itself - depending on the number of omnidirectional microphones - Realize microphone units of any order.
  • a microphone system comprises different microphone units Order, so there can be between different directional characteristics can be switched, e.g. by switching on or off one or more microphones. Furthermore, a suitable electrical connection of the microphone units also any mixed forms between the directional characteristics different order are generated. For this, the Microphone signals of the microphone units weighted differently and added before being in the signal processing unit of the hearing aid are processed and amplified. So a continuous, smooth transition between different directional characteristics can be realized, thereby avoiding annoying artifacts when switching to let.
  • the hearing aid according to the invention advantageously takes place an approximation of the signal levels of that of microphone units microphone signals originating in different orders. Thereby it becomes possible to switch between the microphone signals or when processing several Microphone signals the weighting of the individual microphone signals to change quickly without making level jumps and thus associated artifacts.
  • a sudden one Changing the directional characteristic can e.g. by switching caused by another hearing program. It can the program change can both be triggered manually as well due to an automatic situation detection by the Hearing aid done.
  • a quick change in the directional characteristic takes place especially when the hearing aid recognizes suddenly occurring noise.
  • the reference signal is e.g. the signal level an omnidirectional microphone.
  • the Signal level from the different microphone units outgoing microphone signals become the signal level of the reference signal equalized.
  • the microphone signal to be processed is used usually first divided into frequency bands.
  • the output signals of each Microphones divided into individual frequency bands.
  • the microphone signals in the individual frequency bands for the generation of microphone units with directional characteristics different order interconnected.
  • Another Embodiment of the invention provides that initially Microphone units are provided that are related differentiate their directional characteristics to subsequently the output signals of these microphone units in frequency bands to divide.
  • both the weights the microphone signals of different microphone units in a frequency band as well as the weights of a microphone unit outgoing microphone signals in different Frequency bands can be set independently of one another.
  • at a hearing aid according to the invention can standardize the signal level then also in the individual frequency bands respectively.
  • the procedure is basically the same as in the previously described adjustment of the signal levels that originating from different microphone units Microphone signals. The only difference is that that alignment doesn't span the full range of the acoustic input signal takes place, but only on a frequency band is restricted.
  • the adjustment is preferably carried out then parallel in all frequency bands in which the input signal to be processed is divided.
  • the invention can be used with all known hearing aid types be used with a directional microphone system, for example hearing aids worn behind the ear, in which Ear portable hearing aids, implantable hearing aids or pocket hearing aids.
  • the hearing aid according to the invention also part of a plurality of devices for Care of a hearing aid system that is comprehensive for the hearing impaired be, e.g. Part of a hearing aid system with two worn on the head Hearing aids for binaural care or part a hearing aid system consisting of a wearable on the head Device and a processor unit that can be worn on the body.
  • Figure 1 shows the simplified block diagram of a hearing aid with two omnidirectional microphones 1 and 2.
  • Die Microphone signals generated by microphones 1 and 2 are initially Signal preprocessing units 3 and 4 supplied. In this can be, for example, a preamplification and A / D conversion the electrical output signals of the microphones.
  • Signal preprocessing units 3 and 4 supplied. In this can be, for example, a preamplification and A / D conversion the electrical output signals of the microphones.
  • By delaying and inverting that of the omnidirectional Microphone 2 generated microphone signal in the Circuit unit 5 and subsequent summation with that of microphone signal R0 outgoing to microphone 1 in the summer 6 emerges from the microphones 1 and 2 a directional microphone unit 1,2 with directional characteristic of first order, off which produces the microphone signal R1.
  • a multiplier calculates the signal level of the microphone signal emanating from the omnidirectional microphone 1 R0 the signal level from the microphones 1 and 2 formed directional microphone unit 1, 2 aligns.
  • the Multiplication of the microphone signal emanating from the microphone 1 R0 with the calculated factor takes place in a multiplier 10.
  • the factor is calculated from the quotient of the signal level of the directional microphone 1, 2 generate Microphone signal R1 in the counter and the signal level of the by the omnidirectional microphone 1 generate microphone signal R0 in Denominator.
  • the microphone signal R1 the microphone unit 1, 2 formed from the microphones 1 and 2 and the microphone signal multiplied by the calculated factor R0 of the omnidirectional microphone 1 in the weighting unit 11 differently weighted and summed.
  • the sum of the weights always results in 1.
  • the hearing aid shown has the advantage that with this by shifting the weights in the weighting unit 11 or a hard switch quickly between different Directional characteristics can be changed, without any level jumps and associated audible Distortion caused by changing the directional characteristic are caused.
  • FIG. 2 Another exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2. Also with this is a microphone system with two omnidirectional Microphones 21 and 22 available.
  • each one Signal preprocessing of the microphone signal in question e.g. a pre-amplification and A / D conversion
  • the circuit unit 25 becomes the microphone signal generated by the microphone 22 delayed and inverted and in the summer 26 to that Microphone signal R0 'of the microphone 21 added, resulting in the microphone signal R1 'emerges.
  • the omnidirectional microphone 21 Microphone signal R0 'as well as that of the directional Microphone unit 21, 22 generated microphone signal R1 'available.
  • the microphone signals are now divided into frequency bands, being to improve clarity in the embodiment only one division into two frequency bands takes place, whereas in practice a division common in eight and more frequency bands for hearing aids is.
  • the microphone signal R0 ' is omnidirectional Microphones 21 of a filter bank 27 and the microphone signal R1 'of the directional microphone unit 21, 22 one Filter bank 28 supplied.
  • the microphone signals go out of the filter bank 27 R0A 'and R0B' and from the filter bank 28 the Microphone signals R1A 'and R1B'.
  • the outputs of the filter banks 27 and 28 are each with a level detector 29, 30, 31, 32 connected.
  • the signal levels of the relevant microphone signals R0A ', R0B 'or R1A', R1B 'determined in the respective frequency band are adjusted in the respective frequency band.
  • the respective frequency band results for the respective frequency band to approximate required factor from the quotient of the signal level of the Microphone signal R1A 'or R1B' of the directional microphone 21, 22 in the counter and the signal level of the microphone signal R0A 'or R0B' of the omnidirectional microphone 21 in the denominator. Circuit units are used to determine the approximation factor 33 and 34 available.
  • Frequency band adjusted (standardized) microphone signals are signal processing units 37 and 38, respectively supplied, in which the microphone signals weighted differently and be summed or in which between the different Microphone signals is switched.
  • Advantageous can also in the signal processing units 37 and 38 frequency-dependent processing and amplification of the microphone signals to compensate for the individual's hearing loss Hearing aid wearer.
  • the output signal of a signal processing unit 40 is supplied, in which, for example, a signal amplification and D / A conversion takes place.
  • the electrical output signal is converted into an acoustic output signal in a handset 41st
  • a hearing aid with a microphone system should Switch between different directional characteristics resulting artifacts can be avoided.
  • the invention provides for this before that of microphone units with directional characteristics microphone signals in different order be adjusted to their signal levels. Switching or Crossfading then always takes place between microphone signals same signal level, so that by switching or crossfading there are no level jumps.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Neurosurgery (AREA)
  • Otolaryngology (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Circuit For Audible Band Transducer (AREA)

Abstract

The hearing aid has a microphone system (1,2), a signal processing unit (12) and an output transducer (13), whereby the microphone system has at least two microphone units from which microphone signals (R0,R1) emanate and that have directional characteristics of different order and that vary in operation. The method involves regulating the signal level of at least one microphone unit's output microphone signal to the signal level of a reference signal. An independent claim is also included for the following: (a) a hearing aid for implementing the inventive method.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Betrieb eines Hörhilfegerätes mit einem Mikrofonsystem, einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit und einem Ausgangswandler, wobei das Mikrofonsystem wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, und wobei die Richtcharakteristik des Mikrofonsystems während des Betriebes des Hörhilfegerätes veränderbar ist. Ferner betrifft die Erfindung ein Hörhilfegerät zur Durchführung des Verfahrens.The invention relates to a method for operating a hearing aid with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter, the microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, of which Microphone signals go out and the directional characteristics different Have order, and being the directional characteristic the microphone system during operation of the hearing aid is changeable. The invention further relates to a Hearing aid for performing the method.

In modernen Hörhilfegeräten finden Einrichtungen zur Klassifikation von Hörsituationen Verwendung. Je nach Hörsituation werden die Übertragungsparameter des Hörhilfegerätes automatisch variiert. Dabei kann die Klassifikation u.a. Einfluss haben auf die Wirkungsweise von Störgeräuschunterdrückungsalgörithmen als auch auf das Mikrofonsystem. So wird beispielsweise je nach erkannter Hörsituation gewählt (diskret umgeschaltet bzw. kontinuierlich übergeblendet) zwischen einer omnidirektionalen Richtcharakteristik (Richtcharakteristik nullter Ordnung) und einer deutlichen Richtwirkung des Mikrofonsystems (Richtcharakteristik erster oder höherer Ordnung). Zur Erzeugung der Richtcharakteristik werden Gradientenmikrofone verwendet oder mehrere omnidirektionale Mikrofone elektrisch miteinander verschaltet. Derartige Mikrofonsysteme zeigen ein frequenzabhängiges Übertragungsverhalten, bei dem ein deutlicher Abfall zu tiefen Frequenzen zu verzeichnen ist. Das Rauschverhalten der Mikrofone ist dagegen frequenzunabhängig und gegenüber einem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon geringfügig verstärkt. Zum Erreichen eines natürlichen Klangeindrucks muss der Hochpassfrequenzgang des Mikrofonsystems durch Verstärkung der tiefen Frequenzen ausgeglichen werden. Classification devices are found in modern hearing aids of listening situations use. Depending on the listening situation the transmission parameters of the hearing aid are automatic varied. The classification can include influence have on the operation of noise suppression algorithms as well as the microphone system. For example selected depending on the recognized hearing situation (switched discretely or continuously blended) between one omnidirectional polar pattern (polar pattern zero order) and a clear directivity of the microphone system (Polar pattern of first or higher order). Gradient microphones are used to generate the directional characteristic used or multiple omnidirectional microphones electrically interconnected. Such microphone systems show a frequency-dependent transmission behavior in which a there is a clear drop to low frequencies. In contrast, the noise behavior of the microphones is frequency-independent and slightly compared to an omnidirectional microphone strengthened. To achieve a natural sound impression the high-pass frequency response of the microphone system can be compensated for by amplifying the low frequencies.

Dabei wird das im tiefen Frequenzbereich vorhandene Rauschen ebenfalls verstärkt und unter Umständen deutlich und störend hörbar, während leise Geräusche vom Rauschen verdeckt werden.The noise present in the low frequency range is thereby also reinforced and, under certain circumstances, clear and disturbing audible, while soft noises are masked by the noise.

Aus der DE 198 49 739 A1 ist ein Hörgerät mit wenigstens zwei Mikrofonen zur Bildung eines Richtmikrofonsystems bekannt. Um eine unerwünschte Verfälschung der Richtmikrofoncharakteristik durch nicht aufeinander abgestimmte Mikrofone zu vermeiden, werden Kennwerte der Signale beider Mikrofone über ein Vergleichselement, ein Regelelement und ein Stellelement erfasst und bei Abweichung einander angeglichen.DE 198 49 739 A1 describes a hearing aid with at least two Microphones known to form a directional microphone system. Around an undesirable distortion of the directional microphone characteristics by avoiding mismatched microphones, are characteristic values of the signals of both microphones Comparative element, a control element and a control element detected and aligned with each other in the event of deviation

Aus der WO 00/76268 A2 ist ein Hörhilfegerät bekannt mit einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit und mindestens zwei Mikrofonen, die zur Bildung von Richtmikrofonsystemen unterschiedlicher Ordnung miteinander verschaltbar sind, wobei die Richtmikrofonsysteme ihrerseits in von der Frequenz der von den Mikrofonen abgegebenen Mikrofonsignale abhängiger Gewichtung miteinander verschaltbar sind. In Abhängigkeit des Ergebnisses einer Signalanalyse kann die Grenzfrequenz zwischen benachbarten Frequenzbändern, bei denen eine unterschiedliche Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale vorgesehen ist, eingestellt werden.From WO 00/76268 A2 a hearing aid with a Signal processing unit and at least two microphones, the different to form directional microphone systems Order can be interconnected, the directional microphone systems in turn in the frequency of that of the Microphones emitted microphone signals depending on the weighting are interconnectable. Depending on the result the cutoff frequency between adjacent Frequency bands where a different Weighting of the microphone signals is provided become.

Aus der EP 0 942 627 A2 ist ein Hörgerät mit Richtmikrofon-System mit einer Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung, einem Hörer und mehreren Mikrofonen bekannt, deren Ausgangssignale zur Erzeugung einer individuellen Richtmikrofoncharakteristik über Verzögerungseinrichtungen und die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung in unterschiedlicher Gewichtung miteinander verschaltbar sind. Bei dem Richtmikrofon-System kann die bevorzugte Empfangsrichtung (Hauptrichtung) in Anpassung an eine vorliegende Hörsituation individuell eingestellt werden.A hearing aid with directional microphone system is known from EP 0 942 627 A2 with a signal processing device, a handset and several microphones known, the output signals for Generation of an individual directional microphone characteristic via Delay devices and the signal processing device Can be interconnected in different weightings are. In the directional microphone system, the preferred one Reception direction (main direction) in adaptation to one present hearing situation can be adjusted individually.

Aus der US 5,524,056 ist ein Hörgerät mit einem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon und einem direktionalen Mikrofon erster oder höherer Ordnung bekannt. Das Mikrofonsignal des direktionalen Mikrofons wird im Bereich niedriger Signalfrequenzen in seiner Amplitude verstärkt und dem Mikrofonsignal des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons angeglichen. Zur Erzeugung eines möglichst linearen Frequenzgangs ist in dem Mikrofonsignalpfad des direktionalen Mikrofons ein Equalizer vorgesehen, der das Mikrofonsignal im unteren Frequenzbereich anhebt. Sowohl das Mikrofonsignal des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons als auch das Mikrofonsignal des direktionalen Mikrofons sind schließlich einer Umschalteinheit zugeführt. In einer ersten Schaltstellung der Umschalteinheit ist das omnidirektionale Mikrofon und in einer zweiten Schaltstellung der Umschalteinheit das direktionale Mikrofon mit einem Hörgeräte-Verstärker verbunden. Die Umschalteinheit kann in Abhängigkeit des Signalpegels eines Mikrofonsignals automatisch umschalten.From US 5,524,056 is a hearing aid with an omnidirectional Microphone and a directional microphone first or higher order known. The directional microphone signal Microphones will be in the range of low signal frequencies Amplitude amplified and the microphone signal of the omnidirectional Microphones adjusted. To generate one if possible linear frequency response is in the directional microphone signal path Microphones provided an equalizer, the microphone signal in the lower frequency range. Both that Microphone signal of the omnidirectional microphone as well The directional microphone microphone signal is finally a switching unit fed. In a first switch position the switchover unit is the omnidirectional microphone and in a second switch position of the switchover unit Directional microphone connected to a hearing aid amplifier. The switching unit can depend on the signal level automatically switch a microphone signal.

Nachteilig bei den bekannten Hörhilfegeräten mit einem Richtmikrofonsystem ist, dass beim Umschalten zwischen unterschiedlichen Richtcharakteristiken des Mikrofonsvstems bzw. bei einem schnellen Übergang von einer Richtcharakteristik auf eine andere Pegelsprünge und damit Artefakte hervorgerufen werden.A disadvantage of the known hearing aids with a directional microphone system is that when switching between different Directional characteristics of the microphone system or with a quick transition from a directional characteristic to a different level jump and thus artifacts become.

Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung ist es, bei einem Hörhilfegerät Artefakte bei schnellen Änderungen der Richtcharakteristik des Mikrofonsystems zu vermeiden.The object of the present invention is in a hearing aid Artifacts from rapid changes in the directional characteristic to avoid the microphone system.

Diese Aufgabe wird bei einem Verfahren zum Betrieb eines Hörhilfegerätes mit einem Mikrofonsystem, einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit und einem Ausgangswandler, wobei das Mikrofonsystem wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, und wobei die Richtcharakteristik des Mikrofonsystems während des Betriebes des Hörhilfegerätes veränderbar ist, dadurch gelöst, dass bei wenigstens einer Mikrofoneinheit der Signalpegel des von der Mikrofoneinheit ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals dem Signalpegel eines Referenzsignals angeglichen wird. This object is achieved in a method for operating a hearing aid with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter, the microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, of which Microphone signals go out and the directional characteristics different Have order, and being the directional characteristic the microphone system during operation of the hearing aid is changeable, solved in that at least a microphone unit the signal level of the microphone unit outgoing microphone signal the signal level of a Reference signal is adjusted.

Ferner wird die Aufgabe bei einem Hörhilfegerät zur Durchführung des Verfahrens mit einem Mikrofonsystem, einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit und einem Ausgangswandler, wobei das Mikrofonsystem wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, und wobei die Richtcharakteristik des Mikrofonsystems während des Betriebes des Hörhilfegerätes veränderbar ist, gelöst durch Mittel zur Angleichung des Signalpegels wenigstens eines von einer Mikrofoneinheit ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals an den Signalpegel eines Referenzsignals.The task is also carried out with a hearing aid of the method with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter, the Microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, from which emit microphone signals and the directional characteristics have different order, and being the directional characteristic the microphone system during the operation of the Hearing aid is changeable, solved by means of adjustment the signal level of at least one from a microphone unit outgoing microphone signal to the signal level of a Reference signal.

Das erfindungsgemäße Hörhilfegerät umfasst ein Mikrofonsystem mit mindestens zwei Mikrofonen, um Richtcharakteristiken nullter und erster Ordnung realisieren zu können. Vorzugsweise sind jedoch mehr als zwei Mikrofone vorhanden, so dass auch Richtcharakteristiken zweiter und höherer Ordnung möglich sind. Weiterhin umfasst das Hörhilfegerät eine Signalverarbeitungseinheit zur Verarbeitung und frequenzabhängigen Verstärkung des von dem Mikrofonsystem erzeugten Mikrofonsignals. Die Signalausgabe erfolgt üblicherweise durch ein akustisches Ausgangssignal mittels eines Hörers. Es sind aber auch andere Arten von Ausgangswandlern bekannt, die z.B. Vibrationen erzeugen.The hearing aid according to the invention comprises a microphone system with at least two microphones for directional characteristics zero and first order. Preferably however, there are more than two microphones, so that directional characteristics of second and higher order possible are. The hearing aid device further comprises a signal processing unit for processing and frequency dependent Amplification of the microphone signal generated by the microphone system. The signal is usually output by an acoustic signal Output signal using a handset. But there are also known other types of output converters, e.g. vibrations produce.

Als Richtcharakteristik nullter Ordnung im Sinne der Erfindung ist eine omnidirektionale Richtcharakteristik zu verstehen, die beispielsweise von einem einzelnen, nicht mit weiteren Mikrofonen verschalteten omnidirektionalen Mikrofon hervorgeht. Eine Mikrofoneinheit mit einer Richtcharakteristik erster Ordnung (Richtmikrofon erster Ordnung) kann beispielsweise durch ein einzelnes Gradientenmikrofon oder die elektrische Verschaltung zweier omnidirektionaler Mikrofone realisiert werden. Mit Richtmikrofonen erster Ordnung ist ein theoretisch erreichbarer Maximalwert des Direktiviti-Index (DI) von 6 dB (Hyperniere) zu erreichen. In der Praxis erhält man am KEMAR (einer Standardforschungspuppe) bei optimaler Lage der Mikrofone und bestem Abgleich der von den Mikrofonen erzeugten Signale DI-Werte von 4-4,5 dB. Richtmikrofone zweiter und höherer Ordnung weisen DI-Werte von 10 dB und mehr auf, die beispielsweise für eine bessere Sprachverständlichkeit vorteilhaft sind. Enthält ein Hörhilfegerät ein Mikrofonsystem mit beispielsweise drei omnidirektionalen Mikrofonen, so können auf dieser Basis durch geeignete Verschaltung der Mikrofone gleichzeitig Mikrofoneinheiten mit Richtcharakteristiken nullter bis zweiter Ordnung realisiert werden.As a zero-order directional characteristic in the sense of the invention is an omnidirectional polar pattern to understand for example by a single person, not by others Microphones interconnected omnidirectional microphone emerges. A microphone unit with a directional characteristic first order (first order directional microphone) can for example through a single gradient microphone or the electrical Connection of two omnidirectional microphones implemented become. With first order directional microphones is a theoretical one achievable maximum value of the directive index (DI) of 6 dB (hypercardioid). In practice you get at KEMAR (a standard research manikin) in an optimal location of the microphones and the best matching of those generated by the microphones Signals DI values of 4-4.5 dB. Directional microphones second and higher order have DI values of 10 dB and more, for example for better speech intelligibility are advantageous. A hearing aid contains a microphone system with three omnidirectional microphones, for example can be based on this by suitable connection of the microphones at the same time microphone units with directional characteristics zero to second order can be realized.

Ein einzelnes omnidirektionales Mikrofon stellt für sich eine Mikrofoneinheit nullter Ordnung dar. Wird bei zwei omnidirektionalen Mikrofonen das Mikrofonsignal eines Mikrofons verzögert, invertiert und zu dem Mikrofonsignal des anderen Mikrofons addiert, so entsteht eine Mikrofoneinheit erster Ordnung. Wird wiederum bei zwei Mikrofoneinheiten erster Ordnung das Mikrofonsignal einer Mikrofoneinheit verzögert, invertiert und zu dem Mikrofonsignal der zweiten Mikrofoneinheit erster Ordnung addiert, so ergibt sich eine Mikrofoneinheit mit Richtcharakteristik zweiter Ordnung. Auf diese Weise lassen sich - abhängig von der Anzahl omnidirektionaler Mikrofone - Mikrofoneinheiten beliebiger Ordnung realisieren.A single omnidirectional microphone provides one Microphone unit represents zero order. Is with two omnidirectional Microphones delay the microphone signal of a microphone, inverted and to the microphone signal of the other microphone added, this creates a first-order microphone unit. Again, with two first order microphone units the microphone signal of a microphone unit is delayed, inverted and the microphone signal of the second microphone unit added first order, this results in a microphone unit with second order polar pattern. Leave this way itself - depending on the number of omnidirectional microphones - Realize microphone units of any order.

Umfasst ein Mikrofonsystem Mikrofoneinheiten unterschiedlicher Ordnung, so kann zwischen unterschiedlichen Richtcharakteristiken umgeschaltet werden, z.B. durch An- oder Ausschalten eines oder mehrerer Mikrofone. Weiterhin können durch eine geeignete elektrische Verschaltung der Mikrofoneinheiten auch beliebige Mischformen zwischen den Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung erzeugt werden. Hierzu werden die Mikrofonsignale der Mikrofoneinheiten unterschiedlich gewichtet und addiert, bevor sie in der Signalverarbeitungseinheit des Hörhilfegerätes weiter verarbeitet und verstärkt werden. So kann ein kontinuierlicher, gleitender Übergang zwischen unterschiedlichen Richtcharakteristiken realisiert werden, wodurch sich störende Artefakte beim Umschalten vermeiden lassen.A microphone system comprises different microphone units Order, so there can be between different directional characteristics can be switched, e.g. by switching on or off one or more microphones. Furthermore, a suitable electrical connection of the microphone units also any mixed forms between the directional characteristics different order are generated. For this, the Microphone signals of the microphone units weighted differently and added before being in the signal processing unit of the hearing aid are processed and amplified. So a continuous, smooth transition between different directional characteristics can be realized, thereby avoiding annoying artifacts when switching to let.

Häufig ist jedoch ein allmählicher Übergang zwischen unterschiedlichen Richtcharakteristiken nicht sinnvoll, z.B. wenn auf plötzlich einsetzenden Störlärm reagiert werden soll. Um diesen zu unterdrücken, muss entweder "hart" umgeschaltet oder sehr schnell übergeblendet werden. Dadurch werden bei herkömmlichen Hörhilfegeräten störende Artefakte erzeugt.Often, however, there is a gradual transition between different ones Polar patterns do not make sense, e.g. if to react to sudden noise. Around To suppress this must either be switched "hard" or are blended very quickly. This will help conventional hearing aids generates disruptive artifacts.

Bei dem Hörhilfegerät gemäß der Erfindung erfolgt vorteilhaft eine Angleichung der Signalpegel der von Mikrofoneinheiten unterschiedlicher Ordnung ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale. Dadurch wird es möglich, zwischen den Mikrofonsignalen umzuschalten bzw. bei der gleichzeitigen Verarbeitung mehrerer Mikrofonsignale die Gewichtung der einzelnen Mikrofonsignale schnell zu ändern, ohne dass dabei Pegelsprünge und damit verbundene Artefakte hervorgerufen werden. Ein plötzlicher Wechsel der Richtcharakteristik kann z.B. durch das Umschalten auf ein anderes Hörprogramm verursacht werden. Dabei kann der Programmwechsel sowohl manuell ausgelöst werden als auch aufgrund einer automatischen Situationserkennung durch das Hörhilfegerät erfolgen. Eine schnelle Veränderung der Richtcharakteristik erfolgt insbesondere dann, wenn das Hörhilfegerät plötzlich auftretenden Störlärm erkennt. Wird beispielsweise in der Hörsituation "Gespräch" plötzlich einsetzender Störlärm von der Seite oder von hinten durch das omnidirektionale Mikrofon erfasst, so wird auf das nach vorne gerichtete direktionale Mikrofon umgeschaltet bzw. das Gewicht des von dem direktionalen Mikrofon ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals gegenüber dem Gewicht des von dem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals erhöht.The hearing aid according to the invention advantageously takes place an approximation of the signal levels of that of microphone units microphone signals originating in different orders. Thereby it becomes possible to switch between the microphone signals or when processing several Microphone signals the weighting of the individual microphone signals to change quickly without making level jumps and thus associated artifacts. A sudden one Changing the directional characteristic can e.g. by switching caused by another hearing program. It can the program change can both be triggered manually as well due to an automatic situation detection by the Hearing aid done. A quick change in the directional characteristic takes place especially when the hearing aid recognizes suddenly occurring noise. For example in the "conversation" listening situation suddenly begins Noise from the side or from behind through the omnidirectional Microphone is detected, so it is directed towards the front directional microphone switched or the weight the microphone signal emanating from the directional microphone versus the weight of that from the omnidirectional microphone outgoing microphone signal increased.

Um bei einem Hörhilfegerät gemäß der Erfindung Pegelsprünge beim Umschalten bzw. bei einem schnellen Wechsel der Richtcharakteristik zu vermeiden, werden die Signalpegel der von Mikrofoneinheiten unterschiedlicher Ordnung ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale normiert. Als Referenzsignal dient z.B. der Signalpegel eines omnidirektionalen Mikrofons. Vorzugsweise wird jedoch der Signalpegel eines direktionalen Mikrofons und insbesondere der Signalpegel des direktionalen Mikrofons mit der größten Richtwirkung als Referenzsignal herangezogen. Die Signalpegel der von den unterschiedlichen Mikrofoneinheiten ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale werden dem Signalpegel des Referenzsignals angeglichen. Beim Umschalten zwischen unterschiedlichen Mikrofoneinheiten bzw. einer Veränderung der Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale, wobei die Summe der Gewichte vorzugsweise stets 1 ergibt, erfolgt so immer ein Übergang zwischen Mikrofonsignalen mit gleichem Signalpegel. Durch eine Veränderung der Richtcharakteristik verursachte Pegelsprünge und daraus resultierende Umschaltartefakte werden somit verhindert.To level changes in a hearing aid according to the invention when switching or when the directional characteristic changes quickly to avoid the signal levels of the from Microphone units of different order outgoing microphone signals normalized. The reference signal is e.g. the signal level an omnidirectional microphone. Preferably however the signal level of a directional microphone and in particular the signal level of the directional microphone with the greatest directivity used as a reference signal. The Signal level from the different microphone units outgoing microphone signals become the signal level of the reference signal equalized. When switching between different Microphone units or a change in weighting of the microphone signals, the sum of the weights preferably always results in 1, so there is always a transition between microphone signals with the same signal level. By a Changes in the directional characteristic caused level jumps and resulting switching artifacts are thus prevented.

Bei modernen Hörhilfegeräten wird das zu verarbeitende Mikrofonsignal üblicherweise zunächst in Frecruenzbänder unterteilt. Im Zusammenhang mit der Erfindung werden bei einer Ausführungsform zunächst die Ausgangssignale der einzelnen Mikrofone in einzelne Frequenzbänder unterteilt. Anschließend werden die Mikrofonsignale in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern zur Erzeugung von Mikrofoneinheiten mit Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung miteinander verschaltet. Eine andere Ausführungsform der Erfindung sieht vor, dass zunächst Mikrofoneinheiten bereitgestellt werden, die sich hinsichtlich ihrer Richtcharakteristik unterscheiden, um anschließend die Ausgangssignale dieser Mikrofoneinheiten in Frequenzbänder zu unterteilen. Auch die von der Frequenz abhängige, unterschiedliche Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale der Mikrofoneinheiten unterschiedlicher Ordnung oder das Umschalten zwischen unterschiedlichen Ordnungen erfolgt dann vorteilhaft in diesen Frequenzbändern, wobei vorzugsweise sowohl die Gewichte der Mikrofonsignale unterschiedlicher Mikrofoneinheiten in einem Frequenzband als auch die Gewichte der von einer Mikrofoneinheit ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale in unterschiedlichen Frequenzbändern unabhängig voneinander einstellbar sind. Bei einem Hörhilfegerät gemäß der Erfindung kann die Normierung der Signalpegel dann auch in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern erfolgen. Die Vorgehensweise ist dabei prinzipiell die gleiche wie bei der zuvor beschriebenen Angleichung der Signalpegel der von unterschiedlichen Mikrofoneinheiten ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale. Ein Unterschied besteht lediglich darin, dass die Angleichung nicht über die gesamte Bandbreite des akustischen Eingangssignals erfolgt, sondern lediglich auf ein Frequenzband beschränkt ist. Vorzugsweise erfolgt die Angleichung dann parallel in allen Frequenzbändern, in die das zu verarbeitende Eingangssignal aufgeteilt ist.In modern hearing aids, the microphone signal to be processed is used usually first divided into frequency bands. In connection with the invention at a Embodiment first the output signals of each Microphones divided into individual frequency bands. Subsequently the microphone signals in the individual frequency bands for the generation of microphone units with directional characteristics different order interconnected. Another Embodiment of the invention provides that initially Microphone units are provided that are related differentiate their directional characteristics to subsequently the output signals of these microphone units in frequency bands to divide. Also the different ones depending on the frequency Weighting the microphone signals of the microphone units different order or switching between different orders then advantageously takes place in these frequency bands, preferably both the weights the microphone signals of different microphone units in a frequency band as well as the weights of a microphone unit outgoing microphone signals in different Frequency bands can be set independently of one another. at a hearing aid according to the invention can standardize the signal level then also in the individual frequency bands respectively. The procedure is basically the same as in the previously described adjustment of the signal levels that originating from different microphone units Microphone signals. The only difference is that that alignment doesn't span the full range of the acoustic input signal takes place, but only on a frequency band is restricted. The adjustment is preferably carried out then parallel in all frequency bands in which the input signal to be processed is divided.

Die Erfindung kann bei allen bekannten Hörhilfegeräte-Typen mit einem Richtmikrofonsystem angewendet werden, beispielsweise bei hinter dem Ohr tragbaren Hörhilfegeräten, in dem Ohr tragbaren Hörhilfegeräten, implantierbaren Hörhilfegeräten oder Taschenhörhilfegeräten. Weiterhin kann das Hörhilfegerät gemäß der Erfindung auch Teil eines mehrere Geräte zur Versorgung eines Schwerhörigen umfassenden Hörgerätesystems sein, z.B. Teil eines Hörgerätesystems mit zwei am Kopf getragenen Hörhilfegeräten zur binauralen Versorgung oder Teil eines Hörgerätesystem, bestehend aus einem am Kopf tragbaren Gerät und einer am Körper tragbaren Prozessoreinheit.The invention can be used with all known hearing aid types be used with a directional microphone system, for example hearing aids worn behind the ear, in which Ear portable hearing aids, implantable hearing aids or pocket hearing aids. Furthermore, the hearing aid according to the invention also part of a plurality of devices for Care of a hearing aid system that is comprehensive for the hearing impaired be, e.g. Part of a hearing aid system with two worn on the head Hearing aids for binaural care or part a hearing aid system consisting of a wearable on the head Device and a processor unit that can be worn on the body.

Weitere Einzelheiten und Vorteile der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen.
Es zeigen:

  • Figur 1 das Blockschaltbild eines Hörhilfegerätes mit einem Mikrofonsystem, bei dem eine Angleichung des Signalpegels der von Mikrofoneinheiten mit Richtcharakteristik unterschiedlicher Ordnung erzeugten Mikrofonsignale vorgesehen ist,
  • Figur 2 das Blockschaltbild eines Hörhilfegerätes, bei dem gegenüber dem Hörhilfegerät gemäß Figur 1 zusätzlich die Aufteilung der Mikrofonsignale in Frequenzbänder (Kanäle) vorgesehen ist.
    • Further details and advantages of the invention result from the following description of exemplary embodiments.
    Show it:
  • FIG. 1 shows the block diagram of a hearing aid with a microphone system, in which the signal level of the microphone signals generated by microphone units with directional characteristics of different orders is matched,
  • FIG. 2 shows the block diagram of a hearing aid device, in which, compared to the hearing aid device according to FIG. 1, the microphone signals are additionally divided into frequency bands (channels).

    • Figur 1 zeigt das vereinfachte Blockschaltbild eines Hörhilfegerätes mit zwei omnidirektionalen Mikrofonen 1 und 2. Die von den Mikrofonen 1 und 2 erzeugten Mikrofonsignale sind zunächst Signalvorverarbeitungseinheiten 3 und 4 zugeführt. In diesen kann beispielsweise eine Vorverstärkung und A/D-Wandlung der elektrischen Ausgangssignale der Mikrofone erfolgen. Durch Verzögerung und Invertierung des von dem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon 2 erzeugten Mikrofonsignals in der Schaltungseinheit 5 und anschließende Summation mit dem von dem Mikrofon 1 ausgehenden Mikrofonsignal R0 in dem Summierer 6 entsteht aus den Mikrofonen 1 und 2 eine direktionale Mikrofoneinheit 1,2 mit Richtcharakteristik erster Ordnung, aus der das Mikrofonsignal R1 hervorgeht. Gemäß der Erfindung befinden sich in den Mikrofonsignalpfaden des Mikrofons 1 und der aus den Mikrofonen 1 und 2 gebildeten Mikrofoneinheit 1, 2 Pegeldetektoren 7 bzw. 8, mittels derer die Signalpegel der jeweiligen Mikrofonsignale R0 bzw. R1 bestimmt werden können. Aus den so ermittelten Signalpegeln wird in der Schaltungseinheit 9 ein Multiplikator errechnet, der den Signalpegel des von dem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon 1 ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals R0 dem Signalpegel der aus den Mikrofonen 1 und 2 gebildeten direktionalen Mikrofoneinheit 1, 2 angleicht. Die Multiplikation des von dem Mikrofon 1 ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals R0 mit dem errechneten Faktor erfolgt in einem Multiplizierer 10. Zur Angleichung der beiden Mikrofonsignale R0 und R1 errechnet sich der Faktor aus dem Quotienten des Signalpegels des von dem direktionalen Mikrofon 1, 2 erzeugen Mikrofonsignals R1 im Zähler und dem Signalpegel des von dem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon 1 erzeugen Mikrofonsignals R0 im Nenner. In Abhängigkeit des eingestellten Hörprogramms bzw. der jeweiligen Umgebungssituation wird das Mikrofonsignal R1 der aus den Mikrofonen 1 und 2 gebildeten Mikrofoneinheit 1,2 und das mit dem errechneten Faktor multiplizierten Mikrofonsignal R0 des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons 1 in der Gewichtungseinheit 11 unterschiedlich gewichtet und summiert. Vorzugsweise ergibt dabei die Summe der Gewichte stets 1. Durch die Angleichung (Normierung) der Mikrofonsignale R0 und R1 gemäß der Erfindung kann nun eine schnelle Änderung der Richtcharakteristik erfolgen, ohne dass hierdurch Pegelsprünge und damit störbare Artefakte erzeugt werden. Schließlich ist das Ausgangssignal der Gewichtungseinheit 11 zur Weiterverarbeitung und frequenzabhängigen Verstärkung einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit 12 zugeführt. Anschließend wird das verarbeitete Signal durch einen Hörer 13 in ein akustisches Signal zurück gewandelt und in einen Gehörgang eines Hörgeräteträgers abgegeben.Figure 1 shows the simplified block diagram of a hearing aid with two omnidirectional microphones 1 and 2. Die Microphone signals generated by microphones 1 and 2 are initially Signal preprocessing units 3 and 4 supplied. In this can be, for example, a preamplification and A / D conversion the electrical output signals of the microphones. By delaying and inverting that of the omnidirectional Microphone 2 generated microphone signal in the Circuit unit 5 and subsequent summation with that of microphone signal R0 outgoing to microphone 1 in the summer 6 emerges from the microphones 1 and 2 a directional microphone unit 1,2 with directional characteristic of first order, off which produces the microphone signal R1. According to the invention in the microphone signal paths of the microphone 1 and the microphone unit 1 formed from the microphones 1 and 2, 2 level detectors 7 and 8, by means of which the signal levels of the respective microphone signals R0 or R1 can be determined. The signal levels determined in this way become in the circuit unit 9 a multiplier calculates the signal level of the microphone signal emanating from the omnidirectional microphone 1 R0 the signal level from the microphones 1 and 2 formed directional microphone unit 1, 2 aligns. The Multiplication of the microphone signal emanating from the microphone 1 R0 with the calculated factor takes place in a multiplier 10. To match the two microphone signals R0 and R1 the factor is calculated from the quotient of the signal level of the directional microphone 1, 2 generate Microphone signal R1 in the counter and the signal level of the by the omnidirectional microphone 1 generate microphone signal R0 in Denominator. Depending on the set hearing program or the respective environmental situation becomes the microphone signal R1 the microphone unit 1, 2 formed from the microphones 1 and 2 and the microphone signal multiplied by the calculated factor R0 of the omnidirectional microphone 1 in the weighting unit 11 differently weighted and summed. Preferably the sum of the weights always results in 1. By the adjustment (normalization) of the microphone signals R0 and R1 According to the invention, a quick change of the Directional characteristics occur without this causing level jumps and thus generate annoying artifacts. Finally is the output signal of the weighting unit 11 for further processing and frequency-dependent amplification of a signal processing unit 12 fed. Then the processed Signal through a receiver 13 into an acoustic signal converted back and into an auditory canal of a hearing aid wearer issued.

    Das gezeigte Hörhilfegerät bietet den Vorteil, dass bei diesem durch eine Verschiebung der Gewichte in der Gewichtungseinheit 11 bzw. ein hartes Umschalten schnell zwischen unterschiedlichen Richtcharakteristiken gewechselt werden kann, ohne dass hierbei Pegelsprünge und damit verbundene hörbare Verzerrungen durch die Veränderung der Richtcharakteristik hervorgerufen werden.The hearing aid shown has the advantage that with this by shifting the weights in the weighting unit 11 or a hard switch quickly between different Directional characteristics can be changed, without any level jumps and associated audible Distortion caused by changing the directional characteristic are caused.

    Ein anderes Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung zeigt Figur 2. Auch bei diesem ist ein Mikrofonsystem mit zwei omnidirektionalen Mikrofonen 21 und 22 vorhanden. In den beiden Signalvorverarbeitungseinheiten 23 und 24 erfolgt jeweils eine Signalvorverarbeitung des betreffenden Mikrofonsignals, z.B. eine Vorverstärkung und A/D-Wandlung, und in der Schaltungseinheit 25 wird das von dem Mikrofon 22 erzeugte Mikrofonsignal verzögert und invertiert und in dem Summierer 26 zu dem Mikrofonsignal R0' des Mikrofons 21 addiert, woraus das Mikrofonsignal R1' hervorgeht. Damit stehen zur Weiterverarbeitung sowohl das von dem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon 21 ausgehende Mikrofonsignal R0' als auch das von der direktionalen Mikrofoneinheit 21, 22 erzeugte Mikrofonsignal R1' zur Verfügung. Anders als in dem vorausgehenden Ausführungsbeispiel werden die Mikrofonsignale nun jedoch in Frequenzbänder aufgeteilt, wobei zur Verbesserung der Übersichtlichkeit im Ausführungsbeispiel nur eine Aufteilung in jeweils zwei Frequenzbänder erfolgt, wohingegen in der Praxis eine Aufteilung in acht und mehr Frequenzbänder bei Hörhilfegeräten üblich ist. Zur Aufteilung ist das Mikrofonsignal R0' des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons 21 einer Filterbank 27 und das Mikrofonsignal R1' der direktionalen Mikrofoneinheit 21, 22 einer Filterbank 28 zugeführt. Aus der Filterbank 27 gehen die Mikrofonsignale R0A' sowie R0B' und aus der Filterbank 28 die Mikrofonsignale R1A' sowie R1B' hervor. Die Ausgänge der Filterbänke 27 und 28 sind jeweils mit einem Pegeldetektor 29, 30, 31, 32 verbunden. In den Pegeldetektoren 29, 30, 31, 32 werden die Signalpegel der betreffenden Mikrofonsignale R0A', R0B' bzw. R1A', R1B' in dem jeweiligen Frequenzband ermittelt. Anschließend wird der Signalpegel des Mikrofonsignals R0' des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons 21 dem Signalpegel des Mikrofonsignals R1' der direktionalen Mikrofoneinheit 21, 22 in dem jeweiligen Frequenzband angeglichen. Auch hierbei ergibt sich für das jeweilige Frequenzband der zur Angleichung erforderliche Faktor aus dem Quotienten des Signalpegels des Mikrofonsignals R1A' bzw. R1B' des direktionalen Mikrofons 21, 22 im Zähler und des Signalpegels des Mikrofonsignals R0A' bzw. R0B' des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons 21 im Nenner. Zur Ermittlung des Angleichungsfaktors sind Schaltungseinheiten 33 und 34 vorhanden. Die Multiplikation des jeweiligen Mikrofonsignals R0A' bzw. R0B' mit dem errechneten Faktor erfolgt dann in dem Multiplizierer 35 bzw. 36. Die für das jeweilige Frequenzband angeglichenen (normierten) Mikrofonsignale sind schließlich Signalverarbeitungseinheiten 37 bzw. 38 zugeführt, in denen die Mikrofonsignale unterschiedlich gewichtet und summiert werden bzw. in denen zwischen den unterschiedlichen Mikrofonsignalen umgeschaltet wird. Vorteilhaft kann in den Signalverarbeitungseinheiten 37 und 38 auch eine frequenzabhängige Weiterverarbeitung und Verstärkung der Mikrofonsignale zum Ausgleich des individuellen Hörverlustes eines Hörgeräteträgers erfolgen. Schließlich werden die getrennten Frequenzkanäle in dem Summierer 39 wieder zusammengeführt, dessen Ausgangssignal einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit 40 zugeführt ist, in der beispielsweise eine Signalendverstärkung und D/A-Wandlung erfolgt. Auch in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel erfolgt eine Umwandlung des elektrischen Ausgangssignals in ein akustisches Ausgangssignal in einem Hörer 41.Another exemplary embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 2. Also with this is a microphone system with two omnidirectional Microphones 21 and 22 available. In the two signal preprocessing units 23 and 24 each one Signal preprocessing of the microphone signal in question, e.g. a pre-amplification and A / D conversion, and in the circuit unit 25 becomes the microphone signal generated by the microphone 22 delayed and inverted and in the summer 26 to that Microphone signal R0 'of the microphone 21 added, resulting in the microphone signal R1 'emerges. With that stand for further processing both that emanating from the omnidirectional microphone 21 Microphone signal R0 'as well as that of the directional Microphone unit 21, 22 generated microphone signal R1 'available. Different from the previous embodiment the microphone signals are now divided into frequency bands, being to improve clarity in the embodiment only one division into two frequency bands takes place, whereas in practice a division common in eight and more frequency bands for hearing aids is. For the division, the microphone signal R0 'is omnidirectional Microphones 21 of a filter bank 27 and the microphone signal R1 'of the directional microphone unit 21, 22 one Filter bank 28 supplied. The microphone signals go out of the filter bank 27 R0A 'and R0B' and from the filter bank 28 the Microphone signals R1A 'and R1B'. The outputs of the filter banks 27 and 28 are each with a level detector 29, 30, 31, 32 connected. In the level detectors 29, 30, 31, 32 the signal levels of the relevant microphone signals R0A ', R0B 'or R1A', R1B 'determined in the respective frequency band. Then the signal level of the microphone signal R0 'of the omnidirectional microphone 21 the signal level of the Microphone signal R1 'of the directional microphone unit 21, 22 adjusted in the respective frequency band. Here too results for the respective frequency band to approximate required factor from the quotient of the signal level of the Microphone signal R1A 'or R1B' of the directional microphone 21, 22 in the counter and the signal level of the microphone signal R0A 'or R0B' of the omnidirectional microphone 21 in the denominator. Circuit units are used to determine the approximation factor 33 and 34 available. The multiplication of the respective Microphone signal R0A 'or R0B' with the calculated factor then in multipliers 35 and 36, respectively Frequency band adjusted (standardized) microphone signals are signal processing units 37 and 38, respectively supplied, in which the microphone signals weighted differently and be summed or in which between the different Microphone signals is switched. Advantageous can also in the signal processing units 37 and 38 frequency-dependent processing and amplification of the microphone signals to compensate for the individual's hearing loss Hearing aid wearer. Eventually the separate ones Frequency channels merged again in summer 39, the output signal of a signal processing unit 40 is supplied, in which, for example, a signal amplification and D / A conversion takes place. Also in this embodiment the electrical output signal is converted into an acoustic output signal in a handset 41st

    Zusammenfassend wird festgehalten:In summary it is stated:

    Bei einem Hörhilfegerät mit einem Mikrofonsystem sollen beim Umschalten zwischen unterschiedlichen Richtcharakteristiken entstehende Artefakte vermieden werden. Hierzu sieht die Erfindung vor, dass von Mikrofoneinheiten mit Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung ausgehende Mikrofonsignale in ihren Signalpegeln angeglichen werden. Das Umschalten bzw. Überblenden erfolgt dann stets zwischen Mikrofonsignalen mit gleichem Signalpegel, so dass durch das Umschalten bzw. Überblenden keine Pegelsprünge entstehen.In a hearing aid with a microphone system should Switch between different directional characteristics resulting artifacts can be avoided. The invention provides for this before that of microphone units with directional characteristics microphone signals in different order be adjusted to their signal levels. Switching or Crossfading then always takes place between microphone signals same signal level, so that by switching or crossfading there are no level jumps.

    Claims (11)

    Verfahren zum Betrieb eines Hörhilfegerätes mit einem Mikrofonsystem (1, 2; 21, 22), einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit (12, 40) und einem Ausgangswandler (13, 41), wobei das Mikrofonsystem (1, 2; 21, 22) wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1; R0', R1') ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, und wobei die Richtcharakteristik des Mikrofonsystems (1, 2; 21, 22) während des Betriebes des Hörhilfegerätes veränderbar ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass bei wenigstens einer Mikrofoneinheit (1; 21) der Signalpegel des von der Mikrofoneinheit (1; 21) ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals (R0; R0') dem Signalpegel eines Referenzsignals angeglichen wird.Method for operating a hearing aid device with a microphone system (1, 2; 21, 22), a signal processing unit (12, 40) and an output converter (13, 41), the microphone system (1, 2; 21, 22) comprising at least two microphone units ( (1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)), from which microphone signals (R0, R1; R0 ', R1') originate and which have directional characteristics of different orders, and wherein the directional characteristic of the microphone system (1, 2 ; 21, 22) can be changed during operation of the hearing aid, characterized in that in the case of at least one microphone unit (1; 21) the signal level of the microphone signal (R0; R0 ') emanating from the microphone unit (1; 21) is matched to the signal level of a reference signal becomes. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Signalpegel des Referenzsignals aus dem Signalpegel des Mikrofonsignals (R1; R1') einer der Mikrofoneinheiten (1, 2; 21, 22) hervorgeht oder diesem entspricht.Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the signal level of the reference signal is derived from the signal level of the microphone signal (R1; R1 ') of one of the microphone units (1, 2; 21, 22) or corresponds to this. Verfahren nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Signalpegel des Referenzsignals aus dem Signalpegel eines omnidirektionalen Mikrofons (1; 21) hervorgeht oder diesem entspricht.Method according to claim 2, characterized in that the signal level of the reference signal is derived from or corresponds to the signal level of an omnidirectional microphone (1; 21). Verfahren nach Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Signalpegel des Referenzsignals aus dem Signalpegel einer direktionalen Mikrofoneinheit (1, 2; 21, 22) hervorgeht oder diesem entspricht.A method according to claim 2, characterized in that the signal level of the reference signal from the signal level of a directional microphone unit (1, 2; 21, 22) emerges or corresponds to this. Verfahren nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Signalpegel des Referenzsignals aus dem Signalpegel der direktionalen Mikrofoneinheit (1, 2; 21, 22) mit der größtmöglichen mit dem Mikrofonsystem (1, 2; 21, 22) erreichbaren Ordnung der Richtcharakteristik hervorgeht oder diesem entspricht.A method according to claim 4, characterized in that the signal level of the reference signal is derived from the signal level of the directional microphone unit (1, 2; 21, 22) with the greatest possible order of the directional characteristic that can be achieved with the microphone system (1, 2; 21, 22) equivalent. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Signalpegel der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1; R0', R1') der Mikrofoneinheiten ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) jeweils dem Signalpegel des Referenzsignals angeglichen werden und die Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1; R0', R1') der Mikrofoneinheiten ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) unterschiedlich gewichtet und summiert werden.Method according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the signal levels of the microphone signals (R0, R1; R0 ', R1') of the microphone units ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) each correspond to the signal level of the reference signal are adjusted and the microphone signals (R0, R1; R0 ', R1') of the microphone units ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) are weighted and summed differently. Verfahren nach Anspruch 6, wobei die Summe der Gewichte stets eins beträgt.The method of claim 6, wherein the sum of the weights is always one. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Signalpegel der von den Mikrofoneinheiten ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) unterschiedlicher Ordnung ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1; R0', R1') ermittelt werden, wobei eines der Mikrofonsignale (R1; R1') als Referenzsignal verwendet wird und wobei Faktoren bestimmt werden, so dass die Mikrofonsignale (R0; R0') der Mikrofoneinheiten (1; 21) durch Multiplikation mit dem jeweiligen Faktor in ihrem Signalpegel mit dem Signalpegel des Referenzsignals in Übereinstimmung gebracht werden.Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the signal levels of the microphone signals (R0, R1; R0 ', R1' emanating from the microphone units ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) of different orders. ) are determined, one of the microphone signals (R1; R1 ') being used as the reference signal and factors being determined so that the microphone signals (R0; R0') of the microphone units (1; 21) are multiplied by the respective factor in their signal level are brought into agreement with the signal level of the reference signal. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die von den Mikrofoneinheiten ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1; R0', R1') in mehrere Frequenzbänder eingeteilt werden und bei wenigstens einer Mikrofoneinheit (1; 21) in wenigstens einem Frequenzband der Signalpegel des von der Mikrofoneinheit (1; 21) ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals (R0; R0') dem Signalpegel eines Referenzsignals angeglichen wird. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the microphone signals (R0, R1; R0 ', R1') emanating from the microphone units ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) come into several frequency bands be divided and in at least one microphone unit (1; 21) the signal level of the microphone signal (R0; R0 ') emanating from the microphone unit (1; 21) is adjusted to the signal level of a reference signal in at least one frequency band. Hörhilfegerät zur Durchführung des Verfahrens nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 9, mit einem Mikrofonsystem (1, 2; 21, 22), einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit (12, 40) und einem Ausgangswandler (13, 41), wobei das Mikrofonsystem (1, 2; 21, 22) wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1; R0', R1') ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, und wobei die Richtcharakteristik des Mikrofonsystems (1, 2; 21, 22) während des Betriebes des Hörhilfegerätes veränderbar ist, gekennzeichnet durch Mittel zur Angleichung des Signalpegels wenigstens eines von einer Mikrofoneinheit ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals (R0, R1; R0', R1') an den Signalpegel eines Referenzsignals.Hearing aid for carrying out the method according to one of claims 1 to 9, with a microphone system (1, 2; 21, 22), a signal processing unit (12, 40) and an output converter (13, 41), the microphone system (1, 2; 21, 22) comprises at least two microphone units ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) from which microphone signals (R0, R1; R0 ', R1') originate and which have directional characteristics of different orders, and wherein the directional characteristic of the microphone system (1, 2; 21, 22) can be changed during operation of the hearing aid, characterized by means for adjusting the signal level of at least one of a microphone unit ((1; 1, 2), (21; 21, 22)) outgoing microphone signal (R0, R1; R0 ', R1') to the signal level of a reference signal. Hörhilfegerät nach Anspruch 10, gekennzeichnet durch den Mikrofoneinheiten ((1; 1. 2). (21: 21. 22)) nachgeschaltete Pegelmesseinrichtungen ((7, 8; 29, 30, 31, 32) sowie wenigstens eine Schaltungseinheit (9; 33, 34) zum Ermitteln eines Faktors sowie wenigstens einen Multiplizierer (10; 35, 36) zur Multiplikation eines Mikrofonsignals (R0; ROA', ROB') mit dem Faktor.Hearing aid according to claim 10, characterized by the microphone units ((1; 1.2). (21: 21.22)) downstream level measuring devices ((7, 8; 29, 30, 31, 32) and at least one circuit unit (9; 33 , 34) for determining a factor and at least one multiplier (10; 35, 36) for multiplying a microphone signal (R0; ROA ', ROB') by the factor.
    EP04013165A 2003-06-20 2004-06-03 Method for operating an hearing aid device and hearing aid device with a microphone system wherein different directional characteristics are selectable Expired - Lifetime EP1489884B1 (en)

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    EP1489884A3 (en) 2007-04-18
    CN1575042B (en) 2010-09-29
    US20050025325A1 (en) 2005-02-03
    AU2004202688B2 (en) 2007-04-05
    AU2004202688A1 (en) 2005-01-13
    DK1489884T3 (en) 2013-03-18
    US7340073B2 (en) 2008-03-04
    CN1575042A (en) 2005-02-02
    DE10327890A1 (en) 2005-01-20

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