KR102080100B1 - Hearing assistant apparatus and charging apparatus therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a charging device capable of safely charging power to extend the usage time of a hearing aid device. The hearing aid device of the present invention comprises: a communication unit having an antenna to perform wireless communication, and receiving data from an electronic communication device; a power supply unit for receiving power from a charging device to supply usage voltage; an input unit for obtaining an input from a user to apply the same to the communication unit or the power supply unit; a first microphone for obtaining external sound for a voice amplification function; a second microphone for obtaining external sound for a phone call; a speaker for performing sound emission; a switch for receiving an electrical signal related to reproduction of a file or for the phone call from the communication unit or an electrical signal related to voice amplification from a data processor, and applying the same to the speaker; and a data processor for performing a sound amplification function for the external sound from the first microphone by control of the communication unit to generate the electrical signal related to the voice amplification so as to apply the same to the switch. The communication unit applies a function terminating command for the voice amplification function to the data processor to stop the voice amplification function when receiving data from an electronic communication device, and applies a function performing command for the voice amplification function to the data processor to perform the voice amplification function when not receiving data from the electronic communication device.

Description

Hearing aids and charging devices therefor {HEARING ASSISTANT APPARATUS AND CHARGING APPARATUS THEREFOR}

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a hearing aid device and a charging device therefor, and more particularly, to a hearing aid device capable of communicating with a communication terminal (or an electronic communication device) and to charging power for extending the use time of the hearing aid device. It relates to a charging device that can be.

In general, a hearing impaired person refers to a person who has a hearing impairment, that is, a hearing impairment that is difficult to understand in everyday conversation. And the like.

Types of hearing loss include prenegative hearing loss, sensitive hearing loss, and mixed hearing loss. It is classified based on the degree of damage to bone and airway due to hearing loss due to high sound, hearing loss due to high fever and drug side effects.

Therefore, the hearing impaired people with hearing impairment is not able to make the daily life naturally, a hearing aid that is a device that can sufficiently compensate for the degree of hearing loss, hearing aids by hearing amplification or audible sound depending on the degree of hearing loss It is a device that allows the phosphorus to hear words more clearly, and helps to sound more like natural sounds.

In general, a hearing aid is a handset that collects and outputs audible and ambient sounds as an electrical signal, an amplifier that receives and outputs a signal from the handset, and amplifies and amplifies the signal. And a battery for powering the handset and the handset, the handset and the amplifier. Types of hearing aids include box-type, earring-type, eyeglass-type, and ear-type, and recently, the ear-type is further developed, and a tympanic type that can be inserted deep into the ear has been added.

There is a need for hearing aids capable of playing various files and making phone calls. There is also a need for a device for safety in the charging process of hearing aids.

Republic of Korea Patent Registration No. 10-1760753 "Hearing Aid Device that informs the status of the wearer"

An object of the present invention is to provide a listening aid device capable of communicating with a communication terminal (or an electronic communication device), and a charging device capable of safely performing power charging for extending the use time of the listening aid device.

The charging device for a hearing aid device of the present invention includes an antenna and performs wireless communication, a communication unit for receiving a data related to the reproduction of a file, a telephone call, or a fitting setting from an electronic communication device, and a power supply from the charging device. A first power supply for supplying a used voltage, an input for acquiring an input from a user and being applied to a communication unit or a first power supply, a first microphone for acquiring external sound for a voice amplification function, and a telephone call A second microphone for acquiring external sound, a speaker for performing sound emission, and an electric signal related to reproduction of a file from a communication unit or an electric signal for a phone call or amplification of a voice from a data processor. Sound for external sound from the first microphone under control of the first switch and the communication unit A case having an upper surface of a receiving space for inserting and seating a hearing aid comprising a data processor configured to perform an amplification function to generate an electrical signal related to speech amplification and apply it to a first switch, and to open and close the receiving space of the case. And a lid including a cap, a second power supply configured to receive power from an external commercial power source, to charge and supply power for use, and a contact terminal electrically connected to the first power supply of the listening aid in the accommodation space. A supply unit for receiving power supply and supplying power to the connection unit under control of the processor, a sensing unit for sensing the strength of the magnetic field from the magnetic body, and mounted in the accommodation space to detect that the hearing aid is seated in the accommodation space. Between the second switch, the detection signal from the second switch, the hearing aid and the On the basis of the strength of the magnetic field sensed by the sensing unit, and electrically connected, to control a supply consists of a processor for performing and stopping of use of the power connection.

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In addition, the sensing unit is mounted to the case, it is preferable that the distance between the sensing unit and the magnetic material is variable according to the opening and closing state of the lid.

The present invention has the effect that it is possible to safely perform the power charging to extend the use time of the hearing aid device capable of communicating with the communication terminal (or electronic communication device).

In addition, the present invention has an effect of improving the convenience of the user by selectively performing the voice amplification function on the basis of the communication state with the communication terminal (or the electronic communication device).

1 is a block diagram of a hearing aid device and a listening system using the same according to the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a charging device for the listening aid of FIG. 1.
3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating separation and coupling of the first and second listening aids and the charging device.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the embodiments and drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments, it should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the embodiments of the present invention. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar components.

In this document, expressions such as "have", "may have", "include", or "may include" include the presence of a corresponding feature (e.g., numerical, functional, operational, or component such as a component). Does not exclude the presence of additional features.

In this document, expressions such as "A or B", "at least one of A or / and B", or "one or more of A or / and B" may include all possible combinations of items listed together. . For example, "A or B", "at least one of A and B", or "at least one of A or B" includes (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, Or (3) both of cases including at least one A and at least one B.

Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second," as used herein, may modify various components, regardless of order and / or importance, and may modify one component to another. It is used to distinguish a component and does not limit the components. For example, the first user device and the second user device may indicate different user devices regardless of the order or importance. For example, without departing from the scope of rights described herein, the first component may be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component may be referred to as the first component.

One component (such as a first component) is "(functionally or communicatively) coupled with / to" to another component (such as a second component) or " When referred to as "connected to," it is to be understood that any component may be directly connected to the other component or may be connected through another component (e.g., a third component). On the other hand, when a component (e.g., a first component) is said to be "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), the component and the It may be understood that no other component (eg, a third component) exists between the other components.

The expression "configured to" used in this document is, for example, "suitable for", "having the capacity to" depending on the situation. It may be used interchangeably with "designed to", "adapted to", "made to", or "capable of". The term "configured to" may not necessarily mean only "specifically designed to" in hardware. Instead, in some situations, the expression “device configured to” may mean that the device “can” along with other devices or components. For example, the phrase “processor configured (or set up) to perform A, B, and C” may execute a dedicated processor (eg, an embedded processor) or one or more software programs stored on a memory device to perform the operation. By doing so, it may mean a general-purpose processor (for example, a CPU or an application processor) capable of performing the corresponding operations.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the scope of other embodiments. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Among the terms used in this document, the terms defined in the general dictionary may be interpreted as having the same or similar meaning as the meaning in the context of the related art, and unless it is clearly defined in this document, in an ideal or excessively formal meaning. Not interpreted. In some cases, even if terms are defined in the specification, they may not be interpreted to exclude embodiments of the present disclosure.

1 is a block diagram of a hearing aid device and a listening system using the same according to the present invention.

The first and second listening aids 10 and 20 of the present invention are composed of the same components, and each of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 is independently of the electronic communication device 30. Wireless communication can be performed. The first and second listening aids 10 and 20 have cases that can be inserted into the ear canal or into the ear canal so that at least a portion (eg, a speaker) is inserted into the ear canal of the user or positioned in front of the ear canal. . The mechanical structures of the first and second listening aids 10, 20 are described in FIGS. 3A and 3B.

First, the first listening aid 10 has an antenna and includes a communication unit 11 for performing wireless communication, and an input unit 12 for obtaining input from a user and applying the input from the user to the communication unit 11 and / or the power unit 19. ), A first microphone 13 for acquiring external sound for a voice amplification function, a second microphone 14 for acquiring external sound for a phone call, a voice amplified electric signal, a reproduced electric signal of a file And a speaker 15 that receives at least one or more of electrical signals for a telephone call to perform sound emission, and a reproduced electrical signal of a file from the communication unit 11 and an electrical signal and data processor 19 for a telephone call. A switch 16 for receiving at least one electrical signal from the voice amplified electrical signal from the switch 16 and applying the power to the speaker 15 and a power supply unit electrically connected to the charging device 100 of FIG. 17) And a data processor 19 for controlling the first microphone 13 and the switch 16 described above and performing at least one of a voice amplification function and a fitting setting function through communication with the communication unit 11. .

First, the communication unit 11 is a communication module including an antenna to communicate with the electronic communication device 30. For example, the communication unit 11 transmits and receives data in a communication method such as HFP, HSP, AVRCP, A2DP, SBC, APTX, and performs coding and decoding functions. The communication unit 11 and the data processor 19 may communicate in a UART manner.

In addition, the communication unit 11 acquires a communication connection input (for example, a pairing input) from the input unit 12 to perform a pairing operation with the electronic communication device 30 and a communication connection operation, thereby performing electronic communication. Maintains communication with the device 30. In addition, the communication unit 11 applies a function end command for the voice amplification function by the data processor 19 to the data processor 19 in a state in which communication with the electronic communication device 30 is possible.

Also, The communication unit 11 receives data related to reproduction of a file from the electronic communication device 30 in the state in which communication with the electronic communication device 30 is possible, applies the data to the switch 16, and emits the sound through the speaker 15. In addition, in order to perform a phone call function, the communication unit 11 obtains an external sound from the second microphone 14 in a state capable of communicating with the electronic communication device 30 and transmits the external sound to the electronic communication device 30 through an antenna. In addition, the data related to the telephone call transmitted from the electronic communication device 30 is received and applied to the switch 16 so as to be emitted as a sound through the speaker 15. In addition, the communication unit 11 is the electronic communication device 30 ), The fitting setting data is received from the electronic communication device 30 and transmitted to the data processor 19 so that the data processor 19 performs the fitting setting.

In addition, the function of the voice amplification function by the data processor 19 in the communication end state (or the communication interruption state) with the electronic communication device 30 is terminated by the communication termination by the electronic communication device 30. An execution command is applied to the data processor 19 so that the voice amplification function is performed. In the following, it is explained in more detail.

The input unit 12 may be implemented in various ways such as a button type or a touch input. The input unit 12 obtains a power on / off input, a communication connection input from a user, and applies the input to the power unit 17 and / or the communication unit 11.

Each of the power on / off inputs from the user is an input for power supply and power off of the power supply unit.

The communication connection input corresponds to a pairing input for the communication unit 11 to communicate with the electronic communication device 30. The communication unit 11 receives power and receives a communication connection input from the input unit 12 to perform wireless communication (for example, Bluetooth communication, etc.) to be connected to the electronic communication device 30.

 The first microphone 13 acquires an external sound and applies it to the data processor 19 to perform a voice amplification function.

While performing the telephone call function, the second microphone 14 obtains an external sound and applies it to the communication unit 11.

The speaker 15 receives at least one of a voice amplified electric signal from the data processor 19, a reproduced electric signal of a file from the communication unit 11, and an electric signal for a telephone call through the switch 16. Perform sound emission.

The switch 16 transmits only one electrical signal among the transmission of the electrical signal between the communication unit 11 and the speaker 15 and the transmission of the electrical signal between the data processor 19 and the speaker 15.

The power supply unit 17 includes a rechargeable battery that is electrically connected to the charging device to receive and store power. The power supply unit 17 supplies power such as the communication unit 11 and the data processor 19 in response to a power input from the input unit 12. The charged power is applied to the necessary components, and the application of the charged power is terminated in response to the power-off input from the input unit 12.

The data processor 19 is a processor (eg, a CPU, etc.) that performs a voice amplification function, a fitting setting function, and the like, and includes a hearing loss compensation algorithm, a background noise canceling algorithm, a fitting parameter, and the like for performing the voice amplification function therein. It has a storage space (for example, a memory, etc.) for storing the. In addition, the data processor 19 stores fitting parameters required for the voice amplification function and performs compensation / amplification based on the stored fitting parameters when performing the hearing loss compensation algorithm. It is described in detail below.

The second listening aid 20 is configured in the same manner as the first listening aid 10, and the communication unit 21 is the communication unit 11, the input unit 22 is the input unit 12, and the first microphone 23. ) Is the first microphone 13, the second microphone 24 is the second microphone 14, the speaker 25 is the speaker 15, the switch 26 is the switch 16, the power supply 27 ) Is the power supply unit 17, the data processor 29 is the same as the data processor (19).

The electronic communication device 30 may include a mobile phone, a smart phone, a notebook computer, a digital broadcasting terminal, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable multimedia player (PMP), navigation, a tablet PC, and the like. have. However, the present invention is not limited thereto and includes all devices having portability that can be controlled by communicating with the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 independently of each other.

The electronic communication device 30 includes a communication unit 31 which communicates independently of each of the first and second listening aid devices 10 and 20, an input unit 32 which acquires input from a user, and various information. A display unit 33 for displaying, a storage unit 34 for storing fitting setting data, a reproducible file (for example, MP3, MP4, video, etc.), the communication unit 31 described above, and an input unit 32 ), The display unit 33 and the storage unit 34 are controlled to perform a file reproduction function, a telephone call function, a fitting setting function, and the like. However, although a power supply unit (not shown) is provided for supplying the necessary power in the electronic communication device 30, the power supply unit is only a technique well known to those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, the detailed description thereof will be omitted. do.

In detail, the communication unit 31 includes an antenna and communicates with at least one of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 under the control of the data processor 19. The communication unit 31 transmits and receives data in a communication method such as HFP, HSP, AVRCP, A2DP, SBC, APTX, and performs coding and decoding functions. In addition, the communication unit 31 includes a communication module capable of performing telephone communication and data communication. The communication unit 31 transmits data (or electrical signals) and fitting setting data related to reproduction of a file or a telephone call to at least one of the communication unit 11 and the communication unit 21.

The input unit 32 is a power on / off input from the user, a communication connection / end input with at least one of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20, a telephone call start / end input, a file play start / end An input, a fitting setup start / end input, a volume control input, a file select / move input, and the like are acquired and applied to the data processor 39.

The display unit 33 is implemented as, for example, a led display or a lcd display, and displays stored files, fitting setting data, and the like.

The storage unit 34 stores fitting setting data including fitting parameters, reproducible files, and stores an application (app) for fitting setting. The fitting parameters are determined for each channel and for each frequency, and are values determined based on the hearing characteristics of the user, and represent values adjusted to output a sound to compensate for the hearing loss of the user.

The data processor 39 is a processor (for example, a CPU, etc.) that performs a file playback function, a telephone call function, a fitting setting function, and the like, and is described in more detail below.

With the electronic communication device 30 and the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 powered, the data processor 39 inputs a communication connection through the input unit 32 (eg, peer searching). Input), and each of the communication units 11 and 21 obtains a communication connection input from each of the input units 12 and 22, thereby providing the electronic communication device 30, the first and second listening aids 10 , 20) a communication connection (communication connection state) is made.

In the form of a communication connection, the electronic communication device 30 may perform communication through a communication connection channel independent of each of the first and second listening aid devices 10 and 20.

First, the file reproduction function will be described. The electronic communication device 30 and the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 are in a communication connection state, and the data processor 39 is selected or preselected by a user through the input unit 32. The file stored in 34) is reproduced to generate data related to reproduction of the file. The data processor 39 transmits data related to reproduction of the file to the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 through the communication unit 31. The communication units 11 and 22 receive data related to the reproduction of the file and generate an electrical signal (electric signal related to the reproduction of the file) for sound emission from the speakers 15 and 25 to switch 16. , (26). At this time, each of the communication units 11 and 21 applies a function termination command for the voice amplification function to each of the data processors 19 and 29 to reproduce the file, and the data processors 19 and 29 According to the function termination command, each voice amplification function is stopped. Accordingly, the switch 16 does not receive the electrical signals related to the voice amplification from the data processors 19 and 29, and receives only the electrical signals related to the reproduction of the file and applies them to the speakers 15 and 25, respectively. do.

When performing the file reproduction function, the data processor 39 recognizes the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 as L (left) and R (right) listening aids, respectively, to implement stereo sound. For this purpose, the L electrical signal and the R electrical signal may be applied to the first and second listening aids 10 and 20, respectively.

When the data processor 39 acquires the reproduction end input through the input unit 32, the communication processor 31 transmits a reproduction end command to the communication units 11 and 21 through the communication unit 31 or stops transmission of data related to reproduction of the file. do. When the communication unit 11, 21 receives a reproduction end command or does not receive data related to reproduction of a file (i.e., when communication is interrupted), the voice amplification function is transmitted to the data processors 19 and 29. By applying a function execution command to the data processor (19), 29 causes the voice amplification function to perform again.

Next, the telephone call function will be described. In the communication connection state, the electronic communication device 30 and the first and second listening aids 10, 20 are generated by the data processor 39 by a communication device (eg, a communication system, a base station, etc.). The received incoming signal is received through the communication unit 31, and the incoming signal is transmitted to at least one of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 connected through the communication unit 31. The communication units 11 and 21 receive the incoming signal and apply the incoming signal to the switches 16 and 26 so that the incoming signal is sound-emitted through the speakers 15 and 25. At this time, the communication unit 11, 21 applies a function termination command to the data processor 19, 29, and stops the voice amplification function that the data processor 19, 29 is operating in accordance with the function termination command. do. Accordingly, the switch 16 does not receive electrical signals related to voice amplification from the data processors 19 and 29, and receives only electrical signals related to telephone calls and / or incoming signals to the speakers 15 and 25. ) Respectively. When the data processor 39 acquires the telephone call start input from the input unit 32 and starts the call, the communication unit 11, (the data related to the telephone call received through the communication unit 31 is communicated through the communication unit 31; 21, the communication units 11 and 21 apply the received data to the switches 16 and 26, respectively, and the switches 16 and 26 transmit the received data to the speaker 15, Each is applied to (25). In addition, the communication units 11 and 21 receive external sounds obtained from the second microphones 14 and 24 and transmit them to the electronic communication device 30, and the data processor 39 communicates with the communication unit 31. The external sound received through the communication unit 31 is transmitted to the communication device.

During the performance of the telephone call function, when the data processor 39 receives the telephone call end input through the input unit 32 (i.e., the communication is stopped), the telephone call is terminated. Further, since the communication units 11 and 21 do not receive the data related to the telephone call from the data processor 39 by the telephone call termination (i.e., the communication interruption state), the communication units 11 and 21 do not receive the data. The processor 19 and 29 each apply a function execution command, and the data processors 19 and 29 perform a voice amplification function.

Next, the fitting setting function will be described. In the communication connection state between the electronic communication device 30 and the first and second listening aids 10 and 20, the data processor 39 obtains a fitting setting start input through the input unit 32, and stores the storage unit. Read fitting setting data stored in 34 or execute an application for fitting setting. The data processor 31 reads the fitting setting data read out or the fitting setting data through an application, and then reads the read fitting setting data through the communication unit 31 to the first and second listening aids 10 and 20. The communication unit 11, 21 receives the fitting setting data, and transmits the fitting setting data to the data processors 19, 29, respectively. Alternatively, the data processor 31 may execute an application to allow the user to vary the previously stored fitting setting data through the input unit 32, and to transmit the first and second listening to the changed fitting setting data through the communication unit 31. The auxiliary apparatuses 10 and 20 are transmitted, and the communication units 11 and 21 receive fitting setting data, respectively, and apply them to the data processors 19 and 29. Each of the data processors 19 and 29 stores the received fitting setting data or deletes the previously stored fitting setting data and stores the received fitting setting data.

Next, the voice amplification function in the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 will be described.

While the voice amplification function is performing the voice amplification function, if any one of the file playback function, the telephone call function, and the fitting setup function is started (that is, in the case of communication interruption), the voice amplification function is terminated until the function started. To stop / terminate.

The data processor 19 or 29 receives an external sound from the first microphone 13 to process an external process using a hearing loss compensation algorithm to which fitting parameters are applied, a background noise cancellation algorithm, and the like to generate an electrical signal, and then switch the 16) and (26). The switches 16 and 26 apply the applied electric signals to the speakers 15 and 25.

When either one of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 is turned off due to a power cutoff input or a power supply interruption (for example, a discharge, etc.) of the power supply units 17 and 27, The listening aid 10 or 20 being powered up independently performs the functions described above.

FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram of a charging device for the listening aid of FIG. 1.

The charging device 100 receives power from an external commercial power source and charges the power supply unit 110 for supplying a used voltage or power, the state of charge of the power supply unit 110, and the first and second listening aids 10, ( 20) a display unit 120 for indicating a state of charge of each and the first and second electrically connected to each of the power supply units 17 and 27 of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20; First and second supply units electrically connected to the connecting portions 122 and 123 and the first and second connecting portions 122 and 123, respectively, to supply the used power under the control of the processor 130. 124, 125, a sensing unit 126 for sensing the strength of the magnetic field, and first and second accommodation spaces in which the first and second listening aids 10, 20 are respectively accommodated and charged. Sensing signals from the first and second switches 127a and 127b, and the first and second switches 127a and 127b, respectively, to sense the seating, and the first and second acoustic auxiliary fields. Based on the electrical connection and / or state of charge between each of the 10 and 20 and the first and second connectors 122 and 123 and the strength of the magnetic field sensed by the detector 126, the first And controlling the supply and interruption of the used power to the first and second connection units 124 and 125 by controlling the second supply units 124 and 125, respectively, and displaying the electrical connection and the charging state. It is composed of a processor 130 to display.

In more detail, the power supply unit 110 is connected to an external commercial power source in a wired or wireless manner to receive an external commercial power source (for example, a USB connector) 110a and an external commercial power source from the connector 110a. Is applied to the charging unit 110c, but protects the power supply unit 110 (or the charging device 100) from overvoltage or overcurrent, and receives external commercial power from the protection unit 110b. Power is applied from the charging unit 110c for charging 110d to the charging power or voltage (for example, 3.7V), the battery 110d charged by the charging power from the charging unit 110c, and the battery 110d. And an output unit 110e that applies a power supply or voltage (for example, 5V) to the first and second supply units 124 and 125 under the control of the processor 130. When the charging voltage is present in the battery 110d or when the charging unit 110c receives external commercial power, the battery 110d or the charging unit 110c applies power to the processor 130 to activate the processor 130. The charging operation of the first or second hearing aid apparatuses 10 and 20 may be performed. In addition, the power supply unit 110 supplies power to the display unit 120, the detection unit 126, the first and second switches 127a, 127b, and the like. In addition, the power supply unit 110 applies a charging state (or situation) of the battery 110d by the charging unit 110c to the processor 130.

The display unit 120 is a display (for example, LED, LCD, etc.) that displays information such as the charging state of the power supply unit 110 and the charging state of each of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20. .

The first and second connectors 122 and 123 have contact terminals electrically connected to the power units 17 and 27 of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20, respectively. When the electrical connection is made, a connection signal (eg, an insert key signal) is applied to the processor 130, respectively. In addition, each of the first and second connection units 122 and 123 may be electrically connected to the first and second listening aids that are electrically connected to the first and second supply units 124 and 125. (10) and (20) respectively. Each of the first and second connection portions 122 and 123 performs charging for the first and second listening aids 10 and 20, respectively, while the first and second listening aids 10, and ( 20) The charging state (for example, the charging progress state, the amount of charge, the time required for charging, etc.) of the power supply units 17 and 27 built in each is detected and applied to the processor 130.

Each of the first and second supply units 124 and 125 receives power from the power supply unit 110 and is electrically connected to the first and second connection units 122 and 123, respectively. It is an element which supplies a used power supply to each of the 1st and 2nd connection parts 122 and 123 by control.

In addition, the detector 126 detects the intensity of the magnetic field from the magnetic body mounted on the lid of the charging device 100, and applies the sensed intensity of the magnetic field to the processor 130.

The first and second switches 127a and 127b are disposed in the first and second accommodating spaces in which the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 are received and charged, respectively. When each of the second listening aids 10 and 20 is pressed or contacted when it is inserted and seated in each of the corresponding first and second receiving spaces, respectively, the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 respectively. It is an element (for example, a text switch etc.) which detects what was seated in each of this 1st and 2nd accommodating spaces. In addition, the first and second switches 127a and 127b generate sensing signals indicating whether the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 are seated, and apply them to the processor 130.

The processor 130 also includes a data processor including a programmable non-memory semiconductor and a storage space for storing data (for example, a charging algorithm). The processor 130 charges the first and / or second listening aids 10 and 20 according to a pre-stored charging algorithm.

Since the charging for the battery 110d is performed when the external commercial power is supplied to the connector 110a, the charging of the battery 110d is performed without the control of the processor 130. During charging of the battery 110d, the processor 130 receives the charging state of the battery 110d from the charging unit 110c and displays it on the display unit 120.

The charging algorithm by the processor 130 is performed independently of the charging process for the battery 110d at the same time as the charging process for the battery 110d or when a rechargeable power source is maintained in the battery 110d.

In the following, the charging algorithm by the processor 130 is performed in the following process. The processor 130 obtains a signal or information on the state of charge of the battery 110d from the charging unit 110c so that the battery 110d charges the first and / or second listening aids 10 and 200. The charging algorithm starts when it is in a possible charging state.

Next, the charging algorithm includes the processor 130 separately checking whether each of the first and / or second listening aids 10 and 20 is in a chargeable state. The processor 130 may sense signals (settled and unsettled) from the first and second switches 127a and 127b and connection signals from the first and second connectors 122 and 123 (connection). And non-connection) to determine whether the first and / or second listening aid devices 10 and 20 are in a chargeable state. For example, the processor 130 receives a detection signal from the first switch 127a that the first listening aid 10 is seated in the first accommodation space, and receives the first listening aid from the first connection 122. When receiving the connection signal that the 10 is electrically connected to the corresponding first connection portion 122, the first listening aid 10 is determined to be in a chargeable state. In the same manner, the processor 130 determines whether the second listening aid 20 is in a chargeable state based on the detection signal from the second switch 127b and the connection signal from the second connector 123. do.

Next, in a state in which the first and / or second listening aids 10 and 20 are chargeable, the processor 130 opens the lid based on the intensity of the detected magnetic field from the detector 126. Determine whether it is in the closed state or the closed state. That is, the processor 130 stores the reference intensity of the magnetic field for determining when the lid is in the closed state, and compares the stored reference intensity with the intensity of the magnetic field from the sensing unit 126 to determine the open / closed state of the lid. The processor 130 determines that the lid is in an open state when the intensity of the magnetic field from the detector 126 is less than the reference intensity, and the lid is in a closed state when the intensity of the magnetic field from the detector 126 is greater than or equal to the reference intensity. To judge.

Next, the processor 130 supplies power to the first and / or second supply parts 124 and 125 to the output part 110e only when the lid part is in the closed state. The first and / or second connecting portions 122 to which the first and / or second supplying portions 124 and 125 which have been supplied power by applying a charging command to the second supplying portions 124 and 125 are respectively supplied. The first and / or second listening aids 10 and 20 are charged by supplying the use power to 123.

In addition, when only one hearing aid device of the first or second hearing aid device 10 or 20 is chargeable and the lid part is closed, the processor 130 may charge only one hearing aid device. Let this be done.

As described above, the processor 130 performs the electrical connection and closing operation of the lid by the seating of the first and / or second listening aid 10, 20 to the first and / or second receiving space. After confirming, charging of the first and / or second listening aid 10, 20 is carried out so that external foreign matter (e.g., wire, coin, metallic material, etc.) is removed from the first and / or second. When inserted into the accommodation space, charging is not performed, thereby improving safety during charging.

In addition, the processor 130 may be charged with the first and / or second connection portions 122 and 123 with respect to the state of charge of the first and / or second listening aid 10 and 20 that is or may be charged. The charging state (for example, charge remaining time, charge amount, etc.) of each of the power supply unit 17 and / or 27 is received from the power supply unit 17 and / or 27 and displayed on the display unit 120.

3A and 3B are diagrams illustrating separation and coupling of the first and second listening aids and the charging device. In detail, FIG. 3A shows the first and second listening aids 10, 20 before (separation) from being seated in the first and second receiving spaces S1, S2 of the charging device 100. FIG. 3B is an exemplary view, and FIG. 3B shows after the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 are seated in the first and second accommodation spaces S1 and S2 of the charging device 100 (combined). An illustration of the.

3A and 3B, when the first hearing aid device 10 includes a case 10a having an input unit 12 formed outside, the second hearing aid device 20 may include a case having an input unit 22 formed outside. 20a is provided.

In addition, the charging device 100 may include a case having a first and second accommodation spaces S1 and S2 and a display unit 120 (consisting of the first display unit 120a and the second display unit 120b) formed on an upper surface thereof. 100a and a lid part 100b which are hinged to the case 100a so as to be rotatable and open and close the top surface of the case 100a. The first display unit 120a displays the state of charge of the first listening aid 10, and the second display unit 120b displays the state of charge of the second hearing aid 20.

Each of the first and second accommodating spaces S1 and S2 is a space in which at least a portion of each of the first and second listening aids 10 and 20 is inserted and seated. Contact terminals 122a and 123a corresponding to the power supply units 17 and 27 of the auxiliary devices 10 and 20 and electrically contacting the first and second listening aids 10 and 20. Each of the first and second switches 127a and 127b operated when the respective cases 10a and 20b are inserted and seated in the first and second accommodation spaces S1 and S2 is mounted. .

The power supply unit 110, the first and second supply units 124 and 125, the detection unit 126, and the processor 130 are mounted in the case 100a, and the detection unit 126 is provided in the case 100a. It may be mounted on the outer side.

The connector 110a of the power supply unit 110 is mounted on the outer surface of the case 100a, and the power cable 200 for supplying external commercial power to the connector 110a may be detached.

The magnetic body 140 is mounted on the bottom of the lid part 100b. In the open state of the lid part 100b, the gap between the magnetic material 140 and the detector 126 is far away (that is, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the detector 126 is less than the reference intensity), and the lid part 100b ) In the closed state so that the distance between the magnetic body 140 and the sensing unit 126 is close (that is, the intensity of the magnetic field detected by the sensing unit 126 is greater than or equal to the reference intensity), the magnetic body 140 and the sensing unit ( 126 are respectively mounted to the lid part 100b and the case 100a.

In FIG. 3B, when each of the first and / or second listening aids 10 and 20 is inserted and seated in the first and / or second accommodation spaces S1 and S2, the power supply unit 17 and / or Or (27) is electrically connected to the contact terminals 122a and / or 123a so that the first and / or second connectors 122, 123 apply connection signals to the processor 130, respectively, The first and / or second switches 127a and 127b are operated to apply a sense signal (settling signal) to the processor 130.

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, at least a part of an apparatus (eg, a processor or functions thereof) or a method (eg, operations) may be, for example, stored in a computer-readable storage medium in the form of a program module. Can be implemented with stored instructions. When the instruction is executed by a processor, the one or more processors may perform a function corresponding to the instruction. The computer-readable storage medium may be, for example, a memory.

Computer-readable recording media include hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic media (e.g. magnetic tape), optical media (e.g. CD-ROM, Digital Versatile Disc), magnetic- Optical media (eg, floppy disks), hardware devices (eg, ROM, RAM, or flash memory, etc.), etc. In addition, program instructions may include those generated by a compiler. It may include not only machine code but also high-level language code executable by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The above-described hardware device may be configured to operate as one or more software modules to perform the operations of various embodiments, and The reverse is also true.

The processor or functions according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one or more of the above-described components, some of them may be omitted, or may further include additional other components. Operations performed by a module, program module, or other component according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may be executed in a sequential, parallel, repetitive, or heuristic manner. In addition, some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations may be added.

As described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described specific preferred embodiments, and any person having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the gist of the present invention claimed in the claims may have various Of course, modifications are possible, and such changes are within the scope of the claims.

10: first hearing aid device 20: second hearing aid device
30: electronic communication device 100: charging device

Claims (4)

A first communication unit having an antenna and performing wireless communication, receiving a data related to reproduction of a file from an electronic communication device, for making a telephone call, or receiving data for fitting setting; A power supply unit, an input unit for obtaining an input from a user and applying it to a communication unit or a first power unit, a first microphone for acquiring external sound for a voice amplification function, a second microphone for acquiring external sound for a phone call, A speaker for performing sound emission, a first switch for receiving an electrical signal related to reproduction of a file from a communication unit or an electrical signal for a telephone call or amplifying a voice from a data processor, and applying the same to the speaker; Voice amplification function for the external sound from the first micro A case having a receiving space is listening assistance device is configured as a data processor to be applied to the first switch to generate a signal group to be inserted and seated on an upper surface;
A lid part which opens and closes an accommodation space of the case and is equipped with a magnetic material;
A second power supply unit which receives power from an external commercial power source and charges the battery to supply power;
A connecting portion having a contact terminal electrically connected to the first power supply portion of the listening aid in the accommodation space;
A supply unit receiving the used power and supplying the used power by controlling the processor to the connection unit;
A sensing unit for sensing the intensity of the magnetic field from the magnetic body;
A second switch mounted in the accommodation space to sense that the hearing aid is seated in the accommodation space;
Based on the detection signal from the second switch, the electrical connection between the hearing aid and the connection and the strength of the magnetic field detected by the detection unit, the processor to control the supply to supply and cut off the power supply to the connection. Charging device for the hearing aid, characterized in that configured. delete delete The method of claim 1,
The sensing unit is mounted to the case, the charging device for a hearing aid device, characterized in that the distance between the sensing unit and the magnetic material is variable according to the opening and closing state of the lid.

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