CN101711485B - User programmable hearing assistance device - Google Patents

Abstract

A programmable apparatus improves perception of sound by a person. The apparatus includes a processor, digital-to-analog converter, audio output section and means for generating first and second control signals. The processor executes one or more available programs for processing digital audio signals based on control signals. The digital-to-analog converter generates output analog audio signals based on the digital audio signals. The audio output section receives and amplifies the output analog audio signals, generates audible sound based thereon and provides the audible sound to the person. The memory stores programs for processing the digital audio signals. Based on an action by the person, a first control signal is generated which causes the processor to switch from one available program to another available program so that the person may cycle through and evaluate each of the available programs. Also based on an action by the person, a second control signal is generated which causes the processor to designate at least one of the available programs as a chosen program for continued use. The apparatus may include a counter that counts the number of times that power is applied to or removed from the apparatus. After a predetermined elapsed time, the processor determines which of the available programs has been used most in processing the digital audio signals, where the determination of elapsed time is based at least in part on the counter value.

Description

User programmable hearing assistance device

Technical field

The present invention relates to the hearing assistance device field, more particularly the present invention relates to a kind of system that programmes to the use habit of hearing assistance device and to the operation of device according to the patient.

Background technology

The type of hearing loss and seriousness difference between patient and patient is very large.Therefore, for the result that offers the best to each tin barrier person, the acoustic characteristic of hearing aids (acoustical characteristics) must be through selecting.Typically, the acoustic characteristic through these hearing aidss after the course for the treatment of of writing out a prescription can adapt with the patient.Normally, the auditory properties of measuring a patient with have close contacting between the two according to the auditory properties calculated gains characteristic of measuring.Required gain characteristic can be followed in the digital signal processor of being compiled hearing aids, and hearing aids is worn on it the patient, and its hearing can be again evaluated when the patient uses hearing aids.Based on these and nonessential hearing evaluation result and/or the patient suggestion of improving about hearing, thereby audiologist or pharmacists can adjust the programming of hearing aids and improve effect for the patient.

Expect as people, the makeover process of hearing aids normally an interaction with process that repeat, audiologist or pharmacists adjust the program of hearing aids in the middle of makeover process, again program is adjusted after reception patient's feedback information, so repeat, until the patient is satisfied to result.In a lot of cases, the patient must estimate the various situations that are arranged in the real world outside audiologist or pharmacists office, record the performance of hearing aids in these situations then to audiologist or pharmacists's feedback information, and use the understanding of the suggestion of hearing aids experience that the program of hearing aids is adjusted for the patient based on audiologist or pharmacists.

One of them key factor that affects the hearing aids price is the charge that audiologist or pharmacists serve correction and the programming process of device, together with the use of essential equipment, as software, computer, cable etc.If the audiologist that these participate in and/or pharmacists and the corrective of using can omit, and perhaps can effectively reduce at least, the expense of hearing aids can be effectively reduced.

In general, the complexity of hearing assistance device correction and required expense are equally applicable on makeover process to tinnitus masker.The situation of tinnitus is the sensation that a people can experience noise (as jingle bell sound or roar), the sensation of these noises is due to certain reason (only giving some instances, disorder that causes such as auditory nerve, hair cell, temporomandibular joint or drug therapy etc.) and cause.Tinnitus wherein has a few peoples only to obtain the alleviation of the state of an illness by tinnitus masker for a serious problem of people Lai Shuoshi in every year about 5,000 ten thousand.It is alike with hearing aids that tinnitus masker seems, but it is to produce the sound as narrow-band noise to be used for the tinnitus of sheltering the patient, rather than the sound that will feel amplifies.Some instrument wherein has the frequency that an adjusting potentiometer is used for changing masking noise.These instruments also may have volume control function, and this moment, the user can select to make it to carry out best work to sheltering intensity.

Most tinnitus masker all is specified for not having the patient of obvious hearing loss, and the sound of sheltering that it sends is compared with tinnitus and can easilier be accepted by the patient.For the patient that major part suffers from obvious hearing loss simultaneously, hearing aids is the state of an illness of relief of tinnitus simultaneously.In any case, some needs of patients simultaneously to sound gain and tinnitus shelter.

Most of suitable masking stimulus (masking stimuli) that is generated by tinnitus masker is all determined by audiologist or pharmacists through a makeover process usually afterwards.Similar with the correction of hearing aids, the makeover process of tinnitus masker is also often the process of a repetition, and this process can increase the holistic cost of covering appts.

Therefore, we need one needn't be carried out by audiologist or pharmacists's guiding the programmable hearing assistance device of makeover process.Carry out the needs of makeover process for the needs of exempting programming device and audiologist or pharmacists, the selection when programmable hearing assistance device needs to use this device based on the patient or carry out automated programming based on patient's habitual pattern.This requires to be applicable to simultaneously hearing aids and tinnitus masker.

Summary of the invention

Above-mentioned and other requirements can be met be used to improving the programmable device of people to the perception of sound by a kind of.In one embodiment, this device comprises that processor, digital/analog converter, audio output part are divided and for generation of the instrument (means) of the first and second control signals.Processor is carried out one or more effective procedure based on control signal and is processed digital audio and video signals.Digital/analog converter produces the output simulated audio signal based on digital audio and video signals.Audio output part is divided and is received and amplify the output simulated audio signal, produces based on this sound that can be heard and provides this sound that can be heard to people.Stored in internal memory according to various acoustic constructions (acoustical configurations) or the program of utilizing the tinnitus masking stimulus that digital audio and video signals is processed.Based on certain action of people, the first control signal can generate, and is used for an effective procedure is switched to the another one effective procedure.Similarly based on certain action of people, the second control signal can generate, and is used to specify at least one effective procedure as selected program.Based on this first control signal, processor can stop the execution of one of them effective procedure and begin the execution of another effective procedure.Based on this second control signal, processor can specify at least one effective procedure as continuing to use selected program.

Some preferred embodiment in, comprise an instantaneous push-button switch and a controller for generation of the instrument (means) of the first and second control signals.When being activated by people, instantaneous push-button switch can be changed from the first state to the second state.Controller can remain on based on instantaneous push-button switch the time period generation control signal of the second state.For example, when the time that instantaneous push-button switch remains on the second state surpassed the first duration, controller produced the first control signal.When the time that instantaneous push-button switch remains on the second state surpassed the second duration, controller produced the second control signal.

In one embodiment, programmable device is a hearing aid device, and one or more effective procedure has comprised the acoustic construction program.In another embodiment, programmable device is a tinnitus masker, and one or more effective procedure has comprised the masking stimulus program.Also have in another embodiment, programmable device is the association of a hearing aid device and tinnitus masker, and one or more effective procedure has comprised acoustic construction program and masking stimulus program.

In some embodiments, programmable device comprises that is used for recording the timer that each effective procedure is used to process the duration of digital audio and video signals.Long based on the time that each effective procedure is used, processor specifies at least one effective procedure as continuing to use selected program.

On the other hand, the invention provides and a kind ofly can improve people to the method for perception of sound ability.the method comprises the following steps: (a) one or more effective procedure for the treatment of digital audio and video signals is stored in storage device, (b) based on the execution of one or more effective procedure, digital audio and video signals is processed, (c) produce the output simulated audio signal based on digital audio and video signals, (d) reception and amplification output simulated audio signal produce the sound that can be heard based on this, (e) certain action based on people produces first control signal for an effective procedure is switched to the another one effective procedure, (f) second control signal of certain action generation based on people is used to specify at least one effective procedure as selected program, (g) stop the execution of one of them effective procedure and begin the execution of another effective procedure based on the first control signal, (h) specify at least one effective procedure as selected program based on the second control signal.

In yet another aspect, the invention provides a kind of programmable hearing assistance device, comprise that processor, digital/analog converter, audio output part are divided, the internal memory sum counter.Processor is carried out one or more effective procedure digital audio and video signals is processed.Digital/analog converter produces the output simulated audio signal based on digital audio and video signals.Audio output part is divided and is received and amplify the output simulated audio signal, produces based on this sound that can be heard and provides this sound that can be heard by hearing aids to people.Stored one or more the effective procedure for the treatment of digital audio and video signals in internal memory.Counter produces the count value based on event count, and these event tables understand situation from supply of electric power to the electric power of programmable device that use or remove from programmable device.After a predetermined running time, processor determines which or which effective procedure wherein is used at most when processing digital audio and video signals.Preferably, at least part ofly be based on count value and definite running time.

In some embodiments, programmable device comprises a battery that is used for power supply, and counter understands removing or the replacing situation of battery with the calculating of the generation event of opposing, these event tables.In a preferred implementation, device comprises battery chamber's door and a contact-making switch that is attached to battery chamber's door.The counter of present embodiment can be used as contact-making switch electric opening or the number of times of closing are carried out record.

In some embodiments, programmable device comprises the voltage detecting circuit for detection of the battery both end voltage.In these execution modes, the number of times that counter can be used for the battery both end voltage is increased considerably carries out record, and the information slip that battery two ends increase considerably understands that a new battery replaced the battery of an energy shortage.

Some have preferred embodiment comprised an on/off switch that is used for startup and shutoff device.In these execution modes, counter can be used for user's operation start/closing switch number of times is carried out record.

Some embodiments of the present invention have comprised a configuration mode, some setting that can modifier after input.When being in configuration mode, the setting of various configurations, control as volume enable/forbid, orientating function is enabled/is forbidden, induction coil is enabled/forbidden and device is restarted, can utilize one or more button, volume control, battery door and on/off switch and change.By entering configuration mode, clinician or patient can manually change the setting of configuration easily, and do not need device is connected with computer or other DLL (dynamic link library).

Can obtain the further details of the present invention these and other execution mode in drawings and detailed description.

Description of drawings

With reference to describing in detail and accompanying drawing, further advantage of the present invention is apparent, and in order more clearly to show details, the element in accompanying drawing is not to be that ratio is drawn as according to the rules, wherein similar reference number represents part similar in several views, wherein:

Fig. 1 is the functional block diagram of the hearing assistance device of a preferred embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2 and 3 is the functional flow diagram of programming of the hearing assistance device of first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 and 5 are the functional flow diagram of programming of the hearing assistance device of second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 6 be according to the tinnitus masker of a preferred embodiment of the invention functional block diagram;

Fig. 7 is the functional flow diagram of the programming of the tinnitus masker of one preferred implementation according to the present invention;

Fig. 8 is the functional block diagram of the element of the hearing assistance device of one preferred implementation according to the present invention.

Embodiment

Fig. 1 has described an execution mode that is used for improving the hearing assistance device 10 of listening barrier person hearing.Device 10 in Fig. 1 also can be called as hearing aids herein.Another execution mode of hearing assistance device is a tinnitus masker, and as shown in Figure 6, this can describe in detail later.

As shown in Figure 1, hearing assistance device 10 comprises the microphone 12a-b that one or more is used to respond to sound and converts tones into simulated audio signal.The simulated audio signal that is produced by microphone 12a-b converts digital audio and video signals to by analog/digital converter 14a-14b.Digital audio and video signals is processed by digital processing unit 16 frequency envelope that makes digital audio and video signals and is shaped (shape the frequencyenvelope), thereby strengthens the intensity of these signals in the mode of the audibility that can improve the hearing assistance device wearer.The further discussion of processing the various programs of digital audio and video signals by processor 16 hereinafter is provided.Like this, processor 16 produces the digital audio and video signals of revising based on the programming in processor 16.The digital audio and video signals of revising offers digital/analog converter 18, and it produces simulated audio signal based on the digital audio and video signals of revising.Simulated audio signal in digital/analog converter 18 is amplified by audio frequency amplifier 20, and multiplication factor is wherein controlled 34 controls by the volume that couples together with controller 24.The audio signal that is exaggerated in amplifier 20 outputs offers flexible piezoelectric sound-generating devices 22, and flexible piezoelectric sound-generating devices 22 can be the generation sound wave of audio tweeter or other kinds or can be perceived as by the wearer transducer of the mechanical oscillation of sound.Amplifier 20 and flexible piezoelectric sound-generating devices 22 are collectively referred to as herein the audio output part of device 10 and divide 19.

Continuation is with reference to figure 1, and some embodiments of the present invention comprise a telephone induction coil 30.Telephone induction coil 30 also can be described as induction coil, and when the close telephone receiver of hearing assistance device 10 or ear socket joint receipts system, telephone induction coil can pick up the magnetic field of being received the ear piece generation of system by telephone receiver or ear socket joint.The signal that is produced by telephone induction coil 30 converts digital signal to and offers processor 16 by analog/digital converter 14c.Discuss in detail as following, the digital signal after telephone induction coil 30 conversions can be used for replacement or the reprogramming to processor 16 some embodiments of the present invention, perhaps be used for controlling on other approach the work of hearing assistance device 16.

Some embodiments of the present invention also comprise a wave point 32, as blue tooth interface, be used for to receive wireless signal and come replacement or reprogramming to processor 16.In certain embodiments, wave point 32 also is used for the work of control device 10, comprises the selection of acoustic construction program or masking stimulus program.Wave point 32 also can be used for an audio signal is transferred to device 10 with wireless method, and the music signal that is for example sent by the wireless launcher of CD Player is perhaps by the audio-frequency unit of the TV programme of the wireless launcher transmission of TV tuner.In various execution modes, wave point 32 comprises that a WiFi based on the IEEE802.11 standard connects, and an infrared ray connection or other wireless telecommunications connect.

As shown in Figure 1, the manual operation input equipment 28 that provides makes the wearer can control the various aspects of operation and the programming of hearing assistance device 10, and the manual operation input equipment 28 here can be a transient state switch or button.Button 28 is very little and outer surface that preferably be arranged at device 10 shells preferably.The enclosure location place that button 28 easily touches when being arranged at wearer's wearing and operative installations 10.

For example, device 10 may be configured to one and be positioned at the ear back side (hard of hearing formula), is positioned at the instrument of ear the inside (inner ear type), and button 28 is arranged at the surface that easily touches of hard of hearing formula or inner ear type instrument.U.S. Patent Application Publication 2006/0056649 has been described a kind of example with hearing aids of part in hard of hearing and ear, and wherein in open file, the label 34 of Fig. 1 has been pointed out button possible position on the hard of hearing part of hearing aids.Button 28 also can be arranged at part in ear.What need to recognize is that the present invention is not limited to the particular configuration of certain device 10.In various execution modes, device 10 can comprise an open apolegamy hearing aids, a duct hearing aids, a half-shell structure, a hard of hearing formula device, an inner ear type device or a dark duct-type device.

Button 28 and controller 24 electrical connections that produce digital controlled signal based on the on off state (opening or closing) of button 28.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the duration that is pressed based on button 28 of controller 24 and produce digital controlled signal.In this regard, controller 24 has comprised a timer, for generation of a time signal, 28 the duration of pushing button is carried out timing.The running of controller 24 and button 28 other sides has more detailed description hereinafter.

May comprise the second button 328 that function of hearing aid and tinnitus masking function are combined in embodiments of the invention.In these embodiments, button 328 is used for controlling as the hereinafter selection of tinnitus masking procedure described in detail.Perhaps, then can utilize single button at first function of hearing aid to be programmed programmes to the tinnitus masking function.

Nonvolatile memory 26 as read-only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), electricallyerasable ROM (EEROM) (EEPROM) or flash memory, is used for programming instruction and other operating parameters of storage device 10.Preferably, memory 26 can be conveniently by processor 16 and/or controller 24 access.

According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, hearing assistance device 10 can operate in several different modes that determined by its program.Term as used herein " program " and " programming " represent one or more set of instruction, thereby these instructions are carried out by processor 16, are used for making the frequency envelope shaping (shape the frequency envelope) of digital audio and video signals the audibility of strengthening improved strength hearing assistance device 10 wearers of these signals." program " and " programming " also represents by performed being used for of processor 16 and determines which stored gain procedure can provide the instruction that preferably improves effect to the wearer.Several handling processes of selecting the typical method of the most effective hearing gain procedure for the user have been described in Fig. 2-5.

Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 have described a kind of handling process according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the selection of the most effective hearing gain procedure of this execution mode is based on, and a kind of " test and error " repeats Reduplicated method, and the wearer of device estimates several selections of gain procedure and selects one or more can provide the preferably program of gain to wearer individual.As described in Figure 2, the first step of this method is the basic acoustic construction program (step 100) for the acoustic characteristic shaping that makes hearing assistance device 10 of storing some (N) in memory 26.This step can be completed when making hearing assistance device 10, and perhaps afterwards time for example completes during the reprogrammed step.In a kind of preferred implementation of the present invention, 7 basic acoustic construction programs are loaded into (N=7) in memory 26.In any case, what need to recognize is, the program of any amount can be in being loaded into memory 26 the most at the beginning, and the present invention is not subject to any specific numeral.

" basic acoustic characteristic constructor " herein is a kind of algorithm that is used for setting audio frequency shaping or compensation that is provided by processor 16.Audiologist or pharmacists also claim these programs or algorithm to be called " gain frequency response prescription (gain-frequency response prescriptions) ".The example of generally recognized basic acoustic characteristic constructor comprises NAL algorithm (national acoustical laboratory; Bryne ﹠amp; Tonisson, 1976), POGO algorithm (gain output method; McCandless ﹠amp; Lyregaard, 1983), NAL-R algorithm (NAL algorithm revised edition; Byrne ﹠amp; Dillon, 1986) POGO II algorithm (Schwartz, Lyregaard ﹠amp; Lundh, 1988), NAL-RP algorithm (NAL degree of depth revised edition; Byrne, Parkinson ﹠amp; Newall, 1991), FIG6 algorithm (Killion ﹠amp; Fikret-Pasa, 1993) and NAL-NL1 algorithm (non-linear NAL algorithm; Dillon, 1999).Certainly, other basic acoustic construction program also can join with method as described herein to be used, in any case above-mentioned list is not to be interpreted as limitation of the scope of the invention.

Here " the second acoustic characteristic constructor " used represents the mutation of base program.For example, in a base program, may be set as 20dB in the value of the gain parameter at 1000Hz place, this value is considered to be positioned at or locate near an average hearing loss patient's center amplitude (range).In the example of second a relevant program, can be set as in the value of the gain parameter at 1000Hz place the 25dB that is positioned on " standard " value.Correspondingly, in the example of another the second relevant program, can be set as in the value of the gain parameter at 1000Hz place the 15dB that is positioned under " standard " value.This can have any amount to comprise the second program of various parameter mutation, and parameter wherein can be set as a standard or mean value in relevant base program.Preferably, the second acoustics constructor of 2xN quantity is loaded in memory when step 100.For example, each base program can be provided with two the second relevant programs.

In a preferred embodiment, be loaded in device 10 the acoustic construction program some can be designed to quietly using (being called as " Q " program) in environment, some use (being called as " N " program) in noisy environment, some use (being called as " T " program) when induction coil 30 is activated.In a most preferred execution mode, the memory 26 of hearing assistance device 10 has been pre-installed the basic version of 5 Q programs, the basic version of the basic version of 5 N programs and 5 T programs.In addition, also there is the second program that is used for fine setting by the base program mutation in device 10 memory.

In some embodiments, also stored the feedback canceller algorithm in the memory 26 of device 10.The example of a feedback canceller algorithm has description in the U.S. Patent Application Publication 2005/0047620 of Robert Fretz.Detailed description vide infra, thus this algorithm is can avoid audible feedback for the acoustics amplification stage in setting device 10 processors 16 and/or amplifier 20.

When device being carried out afterwards some of initial programming (step 100), the wearer will install 10 and insert in ducts (for the situation of inner ear type device) or will install 10 and be positioned over ear behind (for the situation of hard of hearing formula device) and make its be connected with duct (step 102).In case install 10 in placely, wearer's 28 1 sections long time T 1 that push button for example 60 seconds, are come active device 10 and initialization feedback canceller program (step 104).According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the feedback canceller program produces and stores the acoustics coefficient, and these acoustics coefficients can be applied to all and be stored in fundamental sum the second acoustics constructor in memory 26.

In case the feedback canceller program is completed its initialization procedure, device 10 will be in an initial correction pattern.In this pattern, the wearer can circulate N quantity available basic acoustic construction program and attempt each program and decide which gain effect that can offer the best for wearer's hearing loss.The wearer carries out this process by the 28 at least one sections time T 2 that push button, and the time of for example pressing 1 second makes a program switch to the next one (step 108).For example, when device 10 switched on power for the first time, first program was carried out by processor 16.After the wearer pushed button 28 at least one seconds, second program carried out (step 120) by processor 16.In some embodiments, device 10 sends twice buzzers (step 118) expression and has selected second program.After the wearer pushed button 28 at least one seconds again, the 3rd program carried out (step 120) by processor 16, sent three times buzzers with timer 10 and represented that the 3rd program is selected.This lasts till that always the wearer has completed the circulation of the program of N quantity (for example 7).If the wearer pushed button for 28 at least one seconds again, first program can be loaded again.This process is depicted in the step 108-122 of Fig. 2.For cyclic program rapidly, the wearer can push button continuously 28 for several times until required program is selected.At this moment, sending of the buzzer of certain quantity represented which program is selected.

Be less than one second (step 110) if definite button 28 is pressed, will do not have so new program to be loaded, process can be waited for actuation of keys (step 122) next time.This can be avoided not being in the mood for switching because of accident 28 programs that cause that push button.

In a preferred implementation, dissimilar issue sound is used for showing the program of having selected any type-quiet environment program, noisy environment program or induction coil program.For example, when one of them quiet environment program was selected, the pure tone buzzer of a certain quantity can divide 19 to send from audio output part, and wherein the schedule of quantities of buzzer understands which quiet environment program is selected.When one of them noisy environment program was selected, the impulsive noise of a certain quantity can divide 19 to send from audio output part, and wherein the schedule of quantities of impulsive noise understands which noisy environment program is selected.When the induction coil program was selected, dialing tone pulse or the tinkle of bells can divide 19 to send from audio output part.

As if in case the wearer has an opportunity to assess all effective base programs, the wearer may realize the program of negligible amounts, as two, used at most, because they can be in various environment be user's hearing gain effect that offers the best.For example, the performance that can offer the best in common quiet communication environment of one of them program, another program at noisy environment as the performance that can offer the best in a crowded space.A preferred embodiment of the present invention allows the user to reject the program that need not or seldom use, and assesses change some second programs that draw on optimum performance program.Referring to following described content, this is to realize by the 28 a period of time T3 (as 30 seconds) than time T 2 length that push button.

As shown in Figure 2, duration T 3 or longer (step 124) if definite button 28 is pressed, for example 30 seconds, processor 16 can be set a label or store a value, shows that the base program of present loading has been designated as selected program (step 126).At this moment, the sound (step 128) of a uniqueness of device 10 meeting generations shows that to the wearer program is selected.In a preferred implementation, device 10 allows wearers to select wherein two of basic acoustic construction program of N quantity.Yet what need to recognize is that the selection of two basic acoustic construction programs can be accepted more than or be less than to device 10.If confirm that two programs in step 130 are still not selected, process can be waited for the actuation of keys next time (step 122) of button 28.

In a kind of alternate embodiments of the present invention, wearer's 28 at least one sections time T 3 not selecteed program of stopping using that pushes button, rather than push button and 28 select a program.Therefore, what need to recognize is, the present invention be not limited to which program be designated as select or be not selected mode.

If in determining step 130, two basic acoustic construction programs are selected, do not have so selecteed base program can be disabled (step 132 and Fig. 3).Invalid on this meaning means that not selecteed program is not useable for utilizing button 28 repeat key and in the selection and implementation carried out.Therefore, at this moment, two base programs can be used in selection and implementation.

The wearer used install 10 1 sections long time T 4 (step 134) after, for example after 80 hours, two the second acoustics constructors can be activated to each preferential base program.Such as, if selected two base programs in user's selection course of step 124-130, four the second programs can be activated in step 136 so, make add up to 6 (N=6) of effective procedure.The activation of the program on this meaning mean make a program select and implementation in effective.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of two the second programs that newly increase is based in two base programs that choose the mutation of corresponding.This allows the wearer can make a meticulousr selection in order to required acoustic response is made fine tune.In this example at this moment, the wearer have 6 for assessment of effective procedure, the user can utilize the button process that in Fig. 3, step 138-152 describes that 6 programs are circulated.This process is identical with the process of step 108-122 in Fig. 2 in essence.

6 effective procedures (2 base programs and 4 the second programs) in case the wearer has an opportunity to attempt and compare, the wearer can select to provide two programs of preferably performance and make remaining invalid.This for example realized by the 28 a period of time T3 that push button in 30 seconds.As shown in Figure 3, a period of time T3 or longer (step 154) if definite button 28 is pressed, processor 16 can be set labels or store a value, shows that the program of present loading has been designated as selected program (step 156).At this moment, the sound (step 158) of a uniqueness of device 10 generations shows that to the wearer program is selected.In a preferred implementation, device 10 allows two of the selections that users can be in the effective procedure of N quantity.In any case, need to recognize, the selection of two programs can be accepted more than or be less than to device 10.

If confirmed that in step 160 two programs are not yet selected, process can be waited for the actuation of keys (step 152) of button 28 next time so.If confirmed that in step 160 two programs are selected, other 4 not selecteed programs can be disabled (step 162 in Fig. 3) so.At this moment, two programs with preferably performance that determined by the wearer remain valid in follow-up use.(N=2, step 164) wearer can utilize the button flow process in step 138-152 to switch between these two effective procedures now.

In some embodiments of the present invention, do not exist for the process that activates and select the second acoustics constructor.In these execution modes, the wearer selects base program or second program with preferably performance of some quantity (for example N=2), and the wearer can be switched between these programs that choose again afterwards.This is showed by the dotted line of drawing and extend to step 122 from square frame 132 in Fig. 2.Therefore, in these execution modes, process can't enter into the step 134 of Fig. 3 and go.

In preferred implementations more of the present invention, the program in hearing assistance device 10 can be reset to acquiescence (dispatching from the factory) setting by user or hearing auxiliary curing expert.In one embodiment, resetting starts by the 28 1 sections sufficiently long time T 5 that push button, for example the obvious 2 minute durations longer than T3.In another embodiment, reset by closing battery chamber's door in 28 and start pushing button.This execution mode can comprise a switch that is attached to battery chamber's door, and wherein the state of switch is used for offering controller 24, is perhaps activated by the power supply of battery to processor.In another embodiment, replacement starts by multisound and double-frequency (DTMF) telephone code from telephone induction coil 32 or microphone 12a or 12b.In another execution mode, resetting starts by the encoded wireless signal from wave point 32.In another embodiment, replacement starts by the configuration setting that the configuration mode of accessing hearing assistance device carries out.Configuration mode can be described below in further detail.In some embodiments, be used in the program of reset apparatus 10 more than the said process of.

As mentioned above, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the button 28 that the wearer utilizes manual operation to be installed on device 10 shells switches and option program between effective procedure.In alternate embodiments more of the present invention, the wearer utilizes a radio remote controller 33 to come to switch and option program between effective procedure as infrared ray, radio frequency or acoustics Long-distance Control etc.In these replacement schemes, be provided with button in remote control 33, the selection decision process of program utilizes above-mentioned described same method to carry out, and what use except the wearer is to be located at the button on remote control 33 rather than to be installed on button on the shell of device 10.In an execution mode that includes the acoustics Long-distance Control, the coding acoustic signal such as a series of can instrument the click sound of institute's recognition mode may be used to device 10 transmission commands.Such acoustic control signal can be received and be transferred to processor 16 by one or two microphone 14a-14b and process.

Include in the execution mode of speech recognition technology at another, the wearer comes to switch and option program between effective procedure by sending certain " character code ", and this " character code " can be received and convert to digital controlled signal and be processed the rear work that is used for control device 10 by processor 16 by one or more microphone 12a-12b.For example, spoken phrase " changeover program " can be become the equal order that looks like with the 28 a period of time T2 that push button by processor 16 translations, and spoken phrase " option program " can be become by processor 16 translations and 28 a period of time T3 order of the meaning on an equal basis that pushes button.

Figure 4 and 5 have been described a handling process based on another preferred embodiment of the present invention, in this execution mode the appointment of the effective gain procedure wearer that is based on device estimate the selection of several gain procedure and install 10 and record the method that the wearer uses the duration of each program.In this execution mode, basic supposition is that the program that can provide optimum to show is in the maximum program of assessment use in period.As mentioned below, one of this execution mode the program that allows the time-based assignment procedure of wearer's " rejection " and manually select one or more can provide optimum to show is provided.This rejection function can provide in a selectable mode of operation.

As shown in Figure 4, the first step of method is the basic acoustic construction program of a certain quantity of storage (N) in memory 26 and the second program (step 200) of 2xN quantity.This step can be completed when making hearing assistance device 10, and perhaps afterwards time for example completes during the reprogrammed step.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, 7 base programs and 14 the second programs are loaded in the memory 26 of device (N=7,2xN=14).In any case, what need to recognize is, the program of any amount can be in being loaded into memory 26 the most at the beginning, and the present invention is not subject to any specific numeral.In this preferred implementation of the present invention, a feedback canceller algorithm also is stored in the memory 26 of device 10 when step 200.

When device being carried out afterwards some of initial programming (step 200), the wearer will install 10 and insert in ducts (for the situation of inner ear type device) or will install 10 and be positioned over ear behind (for the situation of hard of hearing formula device) and make its be connected with duct (step 102).In case install 10 in placely, wearer's 28 1 sections long time T 1 that push button for example 60 seconds, are come active device 10 and initialization feedback canceller program (step 204).According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the feedback canceller program produces and stores the acoustics coefficient, and these acoustics coefficients can be applied to all and be stored in fundamental sum the second acoustics constructor in memory 26.

In case the feedback canceller program is completed its initialization procedure, the wearer just can circulate N quantity available basic acoustic construction program and attempt each program and decide which amplification effect that can offer the best for wearer's hearing loss.The wearer carries out this process by the 28 at least one sections time T 2 that push button, and the time of for example pressing 1 second makes a program switch to the next one (step 208).For example, when device 10 switched on power for the first time, first program was carried out by processor 16.After the wearer pushed button 28 at least one seconds, second program carried out (step 220) by processor 16.In some embodiments, device 10 sends twice buzzers (step 218) expression and has selected second program.After the wearer pushed button 28 at least one seconds again, the 3rd program carried out (step 220) by processor 16, sent three times buzzers with timer 10 and represented that the 3rd program is selected.This continues until the wearer has completed the circulation of the program of N quantity (for example 7) always.If the wearer pushed button for 28 at least one seconds again, first program can be loaded again.This process is depicted in the step 208-228 of Fig. 4.For cyclic program rapidly, the wearer can push button continuously 28 for several times until required program is selected.At this moment, sending of the buzzer of certain quantity represented which program is selected.

As previous described execution mode, if being pressed, definite button 28 is less than one second (step 210), will not have so new program to be loaded, process can be waited for actuation of keys (step 228) next time.This can be avoided not being in the mood for switching because of accident 28 programs that cause that push button.

The duration (step 222) that the base program of having used a timing circuit to record each selection in the execution mode of Fig. 4 is used.The duration summation that each base program is used is recorded in memory and continuous updating when the wearer is switched a program to another one.After the wearer had used the time T 5 as 80 hours (step 226) of installing 10 1 sections long, device can calculate based on the temporal information of record, determined which two base program uses (step 230) at most at time period T5.Can be designated as selected program (step 232) after the base program that these two have the highest service time, remaining base program is disabled (step 234).The wearer then uses 10 a period of time of the device T6 with the base program that chooses of two activation, and as 80 hours (step 236), in during this period of time, the user can be switched between these two programs as required.

When time T 6 stopped, wearer total duration of operative installations 10 was T5+T6, as 160 hours altogether.At this moment, two the second acoustics constructors can be activated to each of two movable base programs, make add up to 6 (N=6) (steps 238) of effective procedure.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of two the second programs that newly increase is based on two mutation of using in maximum base programs corresponding one.This allows the wearer can make a meticulousr selection in order to required acoustic response is made fine tune.In this example at this moment, the wearer have 6 for assessment of effective procedure, the user can utilize again that in Fig. 4, the described button process of step 208-228 circulates to 6 programs.

Interim when the evaluation of relevant the second program of the effective fundamental sum of N quantity, the duration that timing circuit is used for each program is loaded use again records (step 222).The temporal summation that each program is used is recorded in memory and continuous updating when the wearer is switched a program to another one.At the total duration T7 of wearer's operative installations 10 (as 240 hours, obviously than T5+T6's and large) after (step 224), device can calculate based on the temporal information of record, and which two in the effective procedure of N quantity of decision make (step 240) with the most use after the second program is activated.Can be designated as selected program (step 242) after the base program that these two have the highest service time, remaining base program is disabled (step 244).At this moment, these two are recorded by the time the maximum program of use that flow process determines and are used in (N=2, step 246) in subsequent applications.The wearer can utilize the button flow process in step 208-228 to switch between two effective procedures now.

As mentioned above, a preferred embodiment of the present invention allows the wearer to veto time-based assignment procedure and manually selects one or more that program of optimum performance can be provided.This option of negating be described in Fig. 5 and the dashed rectangle part of Fig. 4 in.In step 248, the duration T 3 or longer if definite button 28 is pressed, for example 30 seconds, processor 16 can be set labels or store a value, show present family base program be designated as selecteed program (step 250 in Fig. 5).At this moment, the sound (step 252) of a uniqueness of device 10 meeting generations shows that to the wearer program is selected.In a preferred implementation, device 10 allows wearers to select wherein two of basic acoustic construction program of N quantity.In any case, what need to recognize is that the selection of two acoustic construction programs can be accepted more than or be less than to device 10.

If confirmed that in step 254 two base programs are not yet selected, process can be waited for the actuation of keys of button 28 (step 228 in Fig. 4) next time so.If confirmed that in step 254 two programs are selected, other 4 not selecteed programs can be disabled (step 256 in Fig. 5) so.Therefore during this time, two base programs are in use effective.If wearer's operative installations 10 total duration at least not yet reaches time T 6 (as 80 hours) (step 258), the process step 236 that can forward Fig. 4 to is proceeded so.

Used two base programs after designated 10 a period of time of the device that chooses T6 (for example 80 hours) the wearer, two the second acoustics constructors can be activated to each of two preferential base programs, make add up to 6 (N=6) (steps 238) of effective procedure.In this example at this moment, the wearer again have 6 for assessment of effective procedure, the user can utilize again that in Fig. 4, the described button process of step 208-228 circulates to 6 programs.In this embodiment, the time is recorded the described continuation of the above face of flow process, removes not sum until the wearer vetos this flow process (step 248) by 28 times longer than time T 3 that pushed button.This makes process transfer to the step 250 of Fig. 5, and namely processor 16 can be set labels or store a value, show present family base program be designated as selected program.In case two programs choose, not selecteed so fundamental sum the second program can be disabled (step 256), and remaining two programs are used for selecting.

At this moment, total duration of wearer's operative installations 10 is at least time T 6 (as 80 hours) (step 258), and the process step 246 that can forward Fig. 4 to is proceeded so.Present two programs can be used for follow-up application.These two programs are based on that the time is recorded flow process or rejection flow process or both combinations are selected.The wearer can utilize the button process in step 208-228 to switch between two effective procedures now.If necessary, the program in device 10 can utilize button as described above 28, wave point 32 or telephone induction coil 30 to be reset to default contexts as described above.

Fig. 6 has described an execution mode for the hearing assistance device 300 of sheltering tinnitus.Device 300 also can be called tinnitus masker here, and it comprises one for the treatment of the digital processing unit 316 as the digital audio and video signals of masking stimulus signal etc.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the masking stimulus signal has comprised the narrowband audio noise.The audio frequency of these noise signals is distributed in the frequency range that the mankind can hear usually, as the frequency range at 20-20000Hz.In some sense, " processing " these masking stimulus signals mean the digital audio file (as suffix be the file of .wav or .mp3) of access in digital memeory device 326 also " broadcast " these files produce corresponding digital audio and video signals.On another kind of meaning, " processing " these masking stimulus signals mean based on appointment has selected the narrow-band noise of any frequency range to specify which digital audio file in reference to storage 326.On another meaning, " processing " these masking stimulus signals mean that an audio masking stimulus generator program of carrying out by processor 316 produces the masking stimulus signal.In any case the masking stimulus signal all offers the digital/analog converter 318 that they is converted to simulated audio signal.Simulated audio signal in the output of digital/analog converter 318 is amplified by audio frequency amplifier 320, and wherein the gain level of audio frequency amplifier 320 is controlled 334 controls by the volume that is attached to controller 324.Audio signal after being exaggerated of amplifier 320 outputs offers flexible piezoelectric sound-generating devices 322, and it can or can be perceived as by the wearer transducer of the mechanical oscillation of sound for the generation sound wave of audio tweeter or other kinds.Amplifier 320 and flexible piezoelectric sound-generating devices 322 jointly are called herein the audio output part of device 300 and are divided 319.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the masking stimulus signal comprises narrowband noise signals.In any case, the masking stimulus of other types be can produce based on the present invention, FM noise or speech noise comprised.Therefore, what need to recognize is that the present invention is not limited to the masking stimulus of any particular types.

As shown in Figure 6, device provides a manually operated transient state switch 328, and it also referred to as button 328, is used for making work and programming process that the user of device 300 can control device 300 various aspects at this.Button 328 is very little and outer surface that preferably be arranged at device 300 shells preferably.Be worn on user's ear or in the execution mode in ear at a device 300, the enclosure location place that button 328 is arranged at that the wearer dresses and easily touches during operative installations 300.For example, device 300 may be configured to one and be positioned at the ear back side (hard of hearing formula), is positioned at the instrument of ear the inside (inner ear type), and button 328 is arranged at the surface that easily touches of hard of hearing formula or inner ear type instrument.In an alternate embodiments of the present invention, the wearer utilizes a radio remote controller 333 to come effectively switching and option program between the masking stimulus program as infrared ray, radio frequency or acoustics Long-distance Control etc.

In an alternative execution mode, tinnitus masker 300 is arranged at one and is suitable in shell that desktop uses, as on night-table.In this " desktop " execution mode, button 328 and volume control 334 should be arranged at the case surface place that can easily be touched by the user.The flexible piezoelectric sound-generating devices 322 of present embodiment is preferably a basic audio tweeter, as any instrument that can be applied to desktop clockwork radio device.It also can have the pillow audio amplifier of an expansion.

Button 328 and controller 324 electrical connections that produce digital controlled signal based on the on off state (opening or closing) of button 328.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the duration that is pressed based on button 328 of controller 324 and produce digital controlled signal.In this regard, controller 324 has comprised that a timer carries out timing for generation of time signal to 328 the duration of pushing button.The running of controller 324 and button 328 other sides has more detailed description hereinafter.

Nonvolatile memory 326 as read-only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), electricallyerasable ROM (EEROM) (EEPROM) or flash memory, is used for programming instruction and other operating parameters of storage device 300.Preferably, memory 326 can be conveniently by processor 316 and controller 324 access.

Fig. 7 has described a kind of handling process according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the selection that the most effectively is used for the masking stimulus that tinnitus shelters of this execution mode is based on a kind of " test and error " and repeats Reduplicated method, and the wearer of device 300 estimates several selections of noise frequency and selects one or more and can provide the program of preferably sheltering embodiment to wearer individual.As described in Figure 7, the first step of this method is that use device 300 is stored in memory for generation of the various parameters (step 350) of some (N) for generation of narrow-band noise " program ".When discussing the work of tinnitus masker 300, " program " refers to order, value, setting or the parameter of various storages, they can masked stimulation produce software or firmware access, make software or firmware produce the masking stimulus of sheltering that has specific frequency band or have special Wave Pood to levy.On another kind of meaning, what " program " referred to can be a kind of special digital audio file that comprises masking stimulus (suffix is the file of .wav or .mp3 etc.), as the audio-frequency noise that is in special frequency band or has special Wave Pood to levy.Step 350 can be completed when manufacturing installation 300, and perhaps afterwards time for example completes during the reprogrammed step.

The user of tinnitus masker 300 can circulate N quantity available masking stimulus program and estimate each program and decide which masking effect that can offer the best for user's tinnitus condition.The user carries out this process by the 328 at least one sections time T 2 that push button, and the time of for example pressing 1 second makes a masking procedure switch to the next one (step 356).For example, when device 300 switched on power for the first time, processor 316 activated first masking procedure.After the user pushed button 328 at least one seconds, second masking procedure was loaded into processor 316 from memory 326, and device 300 sends twice buzzers (step 366) and shows that to the user second masking procedure is loaded.After the user pushed button 328 at least one seconds again, the 3rd masking procedure was loaded into processor 316 from memory 326, and device 300 sends three times buzzers and represents that the 3rd masking procedure is loaded.This lasts till that always the user has completed the circulation of the masking procedure of N quantity.328 the five seconds at least if user pushes button again, first program can be loaded execution again.This process is depicted in the step 356-370 of Fig. 7.

Be less than one second (step 358) if definite button 328 is pressed, will do not have so new masking procedure to be loaded, process can be waited for actuation of keys (step 370) next time.This can be avoided not being in the mood for switching because of accident 328 programs that cause that push button.

As if in case the user has an opportunity to assess all effective masking stimulus programs, the user may realize the program of negligible amounts, as one or two, used at most, because they can be in various environment shelter experience for user's hearing that offers the best.For example, one of them masking procedure is at user's masking effect of preparing can to offer the best when falling asleep, and another masking procedure carries out the reading needs masking effect that can offer the best absorbed the time the user.A preferred embodiment of the present invention allows the user to reject the masking stimulus program that need not or seldom use, and assesses change some extra masking procedures that draw on optimum performance program.Referring to following described content, this is to realize by the 28 a period of time T3 (as 30 seconds) than time T 2 length that push button.

As shown in Figure 7, duration T 3 or longer (step 372) if definite button 328 is pressed, for example 30 seconds, processor 316 can be set a label or store a value, shows that the masking procedure of present loading has been designated as selected program (step 374).At this moment, the sound (step 376) of a uniqueness of device 300 meeting generations shows that to the user a preferred masking stimulus program is selected.Do not have selecteed masking stimulus program can be disabled (step 378).The invalid selection course that means that not selecteed program no longer can be carried out for utilizing button 328 repeat key on this meaning.

The user used install 300 1 sections long time T 4 (step 380) after, for example after 40 hours, the frequency band meeting " division " of selecteed program, thereby two extra masking stimulus programs (step 382) are provided.In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, these two new programs provide two masking stimuluses that divide frequency band that belong to the frequency band of selected masking stimulus program.For example, one wherein selecteed program the example of the masking stimulus that is arranged in the 1000-3000KHz frequency band can be provided, one of them new active program can cover the frequency band of 1000-2000KHz and the program of another new activation can cover the frequency band of 2000-3000KHz.At this moment, three masking stimulus programs effective (N=3, step 384) in follow-up use and evaluation procedure.

The user can utilize the button process in step 356-370 to switch between three effective masking stimulus programs now, thereby determines which in three masking effect that can offer the best.As mentioned above, the user utilizes the 328 at least one sections time T 3 that push button to specify in three masking stimulus programs one as selected program (step 372).Then treatment step 374-384 can complete based on new selecteed masking stimulus program.This selects process can repeat arbitrary number of times, thereby allows the user " to call in " the most effective masking stimulus program.

In case the user is satisfied to specific masking stimulus program, 328 a period of time T4 just the user pushes button, as 30 seconds (step 386), this moment, all not selecteed masking stimulus programs can be removed or invalid (step 388).From now on, tinnitus masker 300 can use this masking stimulus program run that chooses always.

In an alternate embodiments of the present invention, user's 328 at least one sections time T 3 that push button make not selecteed program invalid, rather than push button and 328 select a masking stimulus program.Therefore, what need to recognize is, the present invention be not limited to program be designated as select or be not selected mode.

The same with hearing assistance device 10, tinnitus masker 300 can be reset to acquiescence (dispatching from the factory) setting by the user.In one embodiment, resetting starts by the 28 1 sections sufficiently long time T 5 that push button, for example the obvious 2 minute durations longer than T4.In another embodiment, reset by closing battery chamber's door in 328 and start pushing button.In another execution mode, resetting starts by radio remote controller 333.

In a replacement scheme, the invention provides a hearing assistance device that combines hearing aids and tinnitus masker.Present embodiment has comprised parts as described in Figure 1, comprising button 28, be used for being controlled to be the selection course (as described in Fig. 2-5) of the hearing aids acoustic construction program that realizes function of hearing aid and carry out, and second button 328, be used for being controlled to be the selection course (as described in Figure 7) of the masking stimulus program that realizes the tinnitus masking function and carry out.As an alternative, device can use single button to be used at first carrying out the programming of function of hearing aid and then carrying out the programming of tinnitus masking function.Clearly, processor 16 and controller 24 should be programmed for and can carry out simultaneously function of hearing aid and tinnitus masking function.

In preferred implementations more of the present invention, as utilizing a clock signal to decide the alternative or compensation process of the running time of hearing assistance device 10 (perhaps tinnitus masker 300), the calculating that is based on the comings and goings frequency running time determines.For example, because the battery of hearing assistance device must regularly replace, the running time that people can come approximation apparatus by calculating number of times that battery is replaced.Equally, because hearing assistance device is always taken off and is cut off the power supply at each in evening, the number of times that people can circulates and open and close by calculation element, or the mode of battery chamber is opened in utilization, or the mode of an off/on switches of utilization operation, the running time of coming approximation apparatus.

The working life position of the various batteries that use in hearing assistance device probably is in the scope of 3 days to 30 days, its accurately working life be decided by the electricity needs of capacity and the hearing assistance device of particular battery.Correspondingly, if the expectsted of working life of the particular battery of a specific hearing assistance device is 10 days, and battery has been replaced three times, and people can estimate hearing assistance device and used about 30 days so.Of the present invention one preferred embodiment in, the expectsted of working life of battery is the numerical value in the memory 26 that is stored in hearing assistance device.This numerical value can depend on the electricity needs of the specific model of the battery that uses and specific hearing assistance device and upgrade.

As shown in Figure 8, the opening and closing of battery chamber's door contact 42 show that battery chamber's door is opened and closed.Give an example, device provides a cover electrical contact, and it can be closed when battery chamber's door is closed, and it can be opened when battery chamber's door is opened.Door contact detecting module 44 monitors battery chamber's contact 42, produces the logical signal of " opening " or " height " when contact 42 is opened, and produces the logical signal of " closing " or " low " when contact 42 is closed.This logical signal offers counter 40, increases when its worthwhile signal uprises.Size has been opened n time for the count value of n has shown battery chamber's door, shows this or for the battery altering of n time or for being n by opening the number of times that the battery chamber cuts off the power supply device.Count value preferably is stored in Nonvolatile memory device 26.In an exemplary device (there is no independent power supply opening/closing switch), the user makes its outage by opening battery chamber's door when finish every day, and numerical value n can show the time of using altogether n days.If device is provided with an independent off/on switches, and battery always only just is removed when needs are changed, and numerical value n can show the time of using altogether n * x days, and wherein x is that battery is in the expectsted of working life of number of days.

Equally as shown in Figure 8, voltage detection module 38 is provided for monitoring the voltage of battery 36.Whenever the voltage of battery certain value that rises, voltage detection module 38 can be sent the logical signal of " opening " or " height ", shows that a new battery replaced used batteries.This logical signal offers counter 40, increases when its worthwhile signal uprises.Similar to the example of above-mentioned battery altering, size has been replaced n time for the count value of n shows battery, and this shows the time of using altogether n * x days.

Continuation is with reference to figure 8, and transient state off/on switches 48 can be provided for for example opening or close hearing assistance device 10., and switch 48 is pressed down shutoff device again by device for opening next time.Off/on switches detection module 46 monitoring opening/closing switches 48, each switch 48 all can produce the logical signal of " opening " or " height " when operating.This logical signal offers counter 40, increases when its worthwhile signal uprises.Size is recycled opening and closing for the count value of n shows device 10 (perhaps installing 300)

Inferior.For example, if device always is opened and closed once every day, size has been used for the count value of n has shown device

My god.

Therefore, each Fig. 2-5 and 7 described runnings wherein all need a value that represents total operation elapsed time, and this time value can determine based on the count value that is produced by counter 40.For example, this count value can be with the time value of step 380 in the time value of step 258 in the time value of step 222 in the time value that decides step 134 in Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 and Fig. 7.

What need to recognize is that the combination of two or more count values can be used for calculating the value in an operation elapsed time.For example, a count value can be followed the tracks of the number of times that battery chamber's door is opened/closes, and another count value can rise to according to cell voltage the number of times of high value from a low value.In this example, be opened/close once and another count value has shown that cell voltage is not obviously changed if count value has shown battery chamber's door, this can show that battery chamber's door is opened and make the device outage, but battery is not replaced.

In another example, the off/on switches count value may show that device has moved 30 days, and the cell voltage count value may show that device has moved 40 days.In various execution modes, the mean value of these two time values, in these two time values larger one, perhaps in these two time values less one can be elected to be the operation elapsed-time value.

Fig. 8 has described part detection module 38 in controller 24,44 and 46 and counter 40.What need to recognize is that in other embodiments, these any or all parts can be located in the circuit that is different from controller 24.

The alternate embodiments of initial correction pattern

After the device 10 that is delivered to the patient was switched on first, device 10 entered " the initial correction pattern " in " selecting beginning " state.In this pattern, program Q1 can use by the 28 supply patients that push button to Q5.Each user pushes button 28, load constructor can advance to a program simultaneously audio output part divide 19 audible indications of sending a selected program, show the number of this program as the pure tone buzzer of some quantity.Whenever using these Q programs, the optimum Q program the when patient can be chosen as normal the use with it in 28 5 seconds by pressing ﹠ hold when being in a program wherein.After five seconds, hearing aids 10 is confirmed this selection by sending a long pure tone buzzer.After this, selected program (being defined as QS in this specification) is movable and not selecteed program can be disabled.In some preferred implementations, not selecteed program is not to be wiped free of, and can again activate when carrying out following described " configuration mode ".Device 10 is in " Q is selected " state now.

In case be in " Q is selected " state, so available program has 6: QS, N1, N2, N3, N4 and N5.The patient can utilize button 28 these programs that circulate now.When QS was selected, a pure tone buzzer can divide 19 to send by audio output part.When any one noise circumstance program (N1-N5) was selected, a noise burst can divide 19 to send by audio output part, wherein the quantity of pulse corresponding with the selection of N1-N5 (be a pulse as N1, N2 is two pulses, etc.).When a preferable procedure activity in noise program N1-N5, the optimum noise program the when patient can be chosen as normal the use with it in 28 5 seconds by pressing ﹠ hold.After five seconds, device 10 divides 19 to send a long pure tone buzzer and confirm this selection by audio output part.After this, selected noise program (being defined as NS in this specification) is movable and not selecteed program can be disabled.Preferably, not selecteed program is not to be wiped free of, and can again activate when carrying out following described " configuration mode ".Device 10 is in " N is selected " state now.

In " N is selected " state, movable program becomes three: QS, NS and an induction coil program (T1-T5).Selecteed induction coil program (being defined as TS in this specification) is understood based on the selection of program QS and selection automatically, and the selection of its Program T1-T5 is corresponding with the selection of program Q1-Q5.For example, if QS is Q5, TS is T5 so.The patient can be by these three action routines of 28 rotations (QS, NS and TS) that push button.If program QS is selected, audio output part divides 19 can send a pure tone buzzer so.If program NS is selected, can send so a noise pulse.If program TS is selected, can send so a dialing tone pulse or a tinkle of bells.Device 10 is in " coarse adjustment " state now.

The fine setting pattern

In a preferred implementation, about the fine setting of hearing assistance device 10, two selections are arranged.In first was selected, device 10 remained running in the initial correction pattern, activates the fine setting pattern until the patient turns back to clinician's office by the clinician.In this, the clinician enters the fine setting pattern by entering configuration mode.In second selection, the fine setting pattern can be opened automatic activation after circulation from entering after the initial correction pattern through 17 power-offs.

When device 10 when entering the fine setting pattern, two new quiet environment programs be activated (QSL and QSH).This makes the patient have five effective procedures (QS, QSL, QSH, NS and TS) and can ad infinitum be attempted.In case the patient has determined one of them quiet environment program (QS, QSL or QSH) for preferred, the patient can select by pushing button this preferred program in five seconds so.After five seconds, device 20 divides 19 to send a long pure tone buzzer and confirm this selection by audio output part.After this, selected Q program (being defined as QS in this specification) is movable and not selecteed Q program can be disabled.The TS program can automatically be upgraded and activate and selected QS program pairing.

At this moment, two noise circumstance programs be activated (NSL and NSH).This makes the patient have five effective procedures (QS, NS, NSL, NSH and TS) and can ad infinitum be attempted.In case the patient has determined one of them noise circumstance program (QS, QSL or QSH) for preferred, the patient can select by pushing button this preferred program in five seconds so.After five seconds, device 20 divides 19 to send a long pure tone buzzer and confirm this selection by audio output part.After this, selected N program (being defined as NS in this specification) is movable and not selecteed N program can be disabled.

After the fine setting Pattern completion, device 10 can be in and have three action routine QS, NS and TS " finely tunes " state.From now on, these three the action routine work of device 10 use are reset by configuration mode unless install 10.

Preferably, program QSL, QSH, NSL and NSH are based on Q program that predetermined detailed rules and regulations store by utilization and the preset parameter side-play amount of N programming produces.

Configuration mode

In a preferred implementation, when closing simultaneously battery chamber's door and push button a period of time always, during as 10 seconds, pushing button 28 can enter configuration mode.Entering configuration mode can divide 19 (Fig. 1) to send a long pure tone buzzer by audio output part to show.In case be in configuration mode, each actuation of keys of button 28 can be stepped into the next one that configuration arranges sequence, finally can return to and again begin the circulation of this sequence after arranging by last configuration.Each configuration arranges by divide the 19 a series of buzzers that send to show from audio output part, and table 1 has shown one preferred embodiment.Except configuration setting listed in table 1, other configuration setting also can be used for configuration mode, as gain improve/reduce, reducing noise opening/closing, feedback canceller accelerate/slow down, and be too numerous to enumerate.

Table 1

The sound	Configuration arranges	Effectively arrange
			1 buzzer	The auxiliary modification model of clinician starts	Volume controls (VC) the auxiliary modification model of clinician that rises=jump to
2 buzzers	Maximum power output (MPO) is adjusted	If=buzzer of VC rising and=buzzer of MPO grade rising one-level VC decline and MPO grade decline one-level have reached high and minimum grade, the VC order is left in the basket
			3 buzzers	VC starts setting	VC rising=VC opens VC decline=VC and closes
4 buzzers	Induction coil starts setting	VC rising=induction coil is opened VC decline=induction coil and is closed
			5 buzzers	Directional pattern starts setting	VC rising=orientation is opened (using two microphones) VC decline=orientation and is closed (using single microphone)
6 buzzers	Read/recognize startup	The number of bursts of VC rising=pure tone buzzer has shown which harks that the number of bursts of the selected VC declines=noise pulse of program has shown which noisy environment program is selected
			7 buzzers	Reset	VC rising=device is reset to the acquiescence Default Value
8 buzzers	The fine setting pattern starts	VC rises=and the fine setting pattern opens

The auxiliary modification model of clinician allows the fine setting setting of clinician's assisting hearing servicing unit when activating.In this pattern, the clinician can utilize button 28 to select the optimum setting of the program of quiet environment, noisy environment and induction coil for the patient.

In some embodiments of the present invention, hearing assistance device 10 can user record audio frequency memorandum.Utilize one or more button such as button 28 and volume to control 34 etc. and can activate the memorandum record function.With reference to Fig. 1, microphone 12a receives user's voice, and analog/digital converter 14a converts microphone signal to digital audio and video signals, and processor 16 converts digital audio and video signals to a kind of suitable digital audio file form and stores.In the time after a while, one or more button such as button 28 and volume control 34 etc. can be used for the digital audio file of access storage, and divides by audio output part and replay.When there is no other ready-made effective storage means, this function can be carried out simple storage fast for later playback to information very effectively.For example, this memory function can be used for the shopping list in recording user grocery store, perhaps friend or acquaintance's telephone number.

The content of the preferred implementation of the invention described above is for illustration and the explanation of describing invention.They are not to be that complete neither being used for is restricted to concrete disclosed mode with invention.Can make obvious modification or variation according to above-mentioned guide, the selection of these execution modes and description are to provide hardy optimum illustration and its practical application about the principle of the invention, and therefore make those skilled in the art can improve various execution mode of the present invention, by satisfying the consideration of special-purpose after various modifications.All such modifications and variation are all in protection scope of the present invention.

Claims (13)

1. one kind is used for improving people to the programmable device of perception of sound ability, and device comprises:

Be configured to be worn on people's the interior portable shell of hard of hearing or ear;

Be located at the processor in portable shell, carry out the program that one or more is processed digital audio and video signals based on control signal;

Be located at the digital/analog converter in portable shell, produce the output simulated audio signal based on digital audio and video signals;

Be located at the audio output unit in portable shell, reception and amplification output simulated audio signal, the sound that the audible voice of generation take it as the basis also can be heard offers the user;

Be located at portable shell built-in storage, wherein store one or more for the treatment of the prepackage program of digital audio and video signals, memory can be accessed by processor, and wherein said prepackage program is put into described memory in advance when producing described programmable device;

Be located at the single instantaneous push-button switch on portable shell, cause the generation of the first control signal under user's operation, make a prepackage program switch to another prepackage program; And the generation that causes the second control signal under user's operation, be used to specify at least one prepackage program as selected program;

Described processor stops a prepackage program implementation and begins the execution of another effective procedure based on the first control signal; And

Described processor specifies at least one effective procedure as selected program based on the second control signal.

2. device according to claim 1 is characterized in that further comprising:

With the controller of described single instantaneous push-button switch and processor communication, the duration that controller is pressed based on instantaneous push-button switch produces control signal.

3. device according to claim 1 is characterized in that:

Memory stores at least N the prepackage effective procedure, comprise at least the first effective procedure, the second effective procedure, the 3rd effective procedure, N-1 effective procedure and N effective procedure;

Processor stops carrying out first effective procedure and begins to carry out second effective procedure based on first first control signal that receives;

Processor stops carrying out second effective procedure and begins to carry out the 3rd effective procedure based on second the first control signal that receives;

Processor stops carrying out the 3rd effective procedure and begins to carry out the 4th effective procedure based on the 3rd the first control signal that receives;

Processor stops carrying out N-1 effective procedure and begins to carry out N effective procedure based on N-1 the first control signal that receives;

Processor stops carrying out N effective procedure and begins to carry out first effective procedure based on N the first control signal that receives.

4. device according to claim 1 is characterized in that:

Memory stores comprise a plurality of prepackage programs of a plurality of effective procedures and a plurality of invalid programs;

Processor specifies one of them effective procedure as first selected program based on first second control signal that receives;

Processor specifies wherein another effective procedure as second selected program based on second the second control signal that receives;

It is not that first selected or second selected effective procedure is as invalid program that processor is specified all based on second the second control signal that receives.

5. one kind is used for improving people to the method for perception of sound ability, and the method is carried out by the parts of hearing assistance device, and this device is contained in portable shell in the hard of hearing or ear that is configured to be worn on people, and the method comprises:

(a) one or more effective procedure for the treatment of digital audio and video signals is stored in memory in portable shell, storage process is completed when the manufacturing of hearing assistance device;

(b) based on the execution of one or more effective procedure, digital audio and video signals is processed;

The digital audio and video signals of (c) finishing dealing with based on step (b) produces the output simulated audio signal;

(d) receive and amplify the output simulated audio signal, producing take its audible voice as the basis;

(e) user's operation is located at the single instantaneous push-button switch on portable shell so that described single instantaneous push-button switch changes to the second state from the first state;

(f) press described single instantaneous push-button switch and produce the first control signal to certain time length, be used for an effective procedure is switched to the another one effective procedure;

(g) press described single instantaneous push-button switch and produce the second control signal to certain time length, be used to specify at least one effective procedure as selected program, wherein for generation of the duration of the second control signal from different for generation of the duration of the first control signal;

(h) stop the execution of one of them effective procedure and begin the execution of another effective procedure based on the first control signal;

(i) specify at least one effective procedure as selected program based on the second control signal.

6. one kind is used for improving people to the programmable device of perception of sound ability, and device comprises:

Be configured to be worn on people's the interior portable shell of hard of hearing or ear;

Be located at the processor in portable shell, carry out a plurality of effective procedures for the digital audio and video signals processing;

Be located at the digital/analog converter in portable shell, produce the output simulated audio signal based on digital audio and video signals;

Be located at the audio output unit in portable shell, reception and amplification output simulated audio signal, the sound that the audible voice of generation take it as the basis also can be heard offers the user;

Be located at the memory in portable shell, be used for one or more program for the treatment of digital audio and video signals of storage, memory can be accessed by processor; And

Be located at the counter in portable shell, be used for the event that can show programmable device power supply or lower electricity is counted, and produce one take its count value as the basis;

Wherein processor is determined to be used when processing digital audio and video signals at most through wherein which or which effective procedure after the predetermined running time, and running time is at least part of is based on count value and definite.

7. programmable device according to claim 6, characterized by further comprising for the battery to the programmable device power supply, and its Counter is used for the event that can show the situation that battery is removed and changes is counted.

8. programmable device according to claim 7 characterized by further comprising battery chamber's door and is attached to the contact-making switch of battery chamber's door, and its Counter is used for contact-making switch electric opening or the number of times of closing are carried out record.

9. one kind is used for improving people to the programmable device of perception of sound ability, and device comprises:

Be configured to be worn on the portable shell on interior, the hard of hearing or ear of people's ear;

Be located at the memory in portable shell, store a plurality of audio frequency handling procedures in memory, be included in available initial adjustment program and the fine setting program in digital audio and video signals of processing;

Be located in portable shell and the processor that is connected with memory, carry out one or more initial adjustment program when processor is in the initial adjustment pattern digital audio and video signals is processed, carry out one or more fine setting program when being in the fine setting pattern digital audio and video signals is processed;

The single instantaneous push-button switch of being located on portable shell and being connected with processor, when single instantaneous push-button switch was in the initial adjustment pattern, the described initial adjustment program of its repetitive cycling under people's operation also selected wherein an initial adjustment program for the treatment of digital audio and video signals;

Be located at and be used for making processor from switch to the instrument at the fine setting work pattern at the initial adjustment work pattern in portable shell;

Single instantaneous push-button switch also passes through selected initial adjustment program and one or more fine setting programs in initial adjustment by people's operational cycle, and further select the initial adjustment program in the initial adjustment pattern by operating in of people, or select one in for the treatment of the fine setting program of digital audio and video signals in the fine setting pattern;

Be located at the digital/analog converter in portable shell, digital/analog converter produces the output simulated audio signal based on digital audio and video signals;

Be located at the audio output unit in portable shell, audio output unit reception and amplification output simulated audio signal, the sound that the audible voice of generation take it as the basis also can be heard offers the user.

10. programmable device according to claim 9 is characterized in that described be used to processor is comprised from the instrument that switches at the initial adjustment work pattern at the fine setting work pattern:

Be located in portable shell and the counter that is connected with processor, counter is counted showing programmable device power supply or lower electric event in the initial adjustment pattern, and produces one take its count value as the basis; And

Processor judges that further whether count value surpasses preset value, and when count value surpassed preset value, processor was operated in the fine setting pattern, in this pattern processor deposit in in one or more relevant fine setting program of the program of initial adjustment model selection.

11. one kind is utilized hearing assistance device to improve people to the method for perception of sound ability, the method is carried out by the parts of hearing assistance device, and this device is contained in portable shell in the hard of hearing or ear that can be worn on people, and the method comprises:

(a) a plurality of audio frequency handling procedures are stored in the memory of being located in portable shell, the audio frequency handling procedure comprises initial adjustment program and the fine setting program that can be used for processing digital audio and video signals;

(b) the initial adjustment program can be selected by people;

(c) select one of them initial adjustment program to be used for processing digital audio and video signals when hearing assistance device is in the initial adjustment pattern, selection course is completed by the instantaneous push-button switch that operation is positioned on portable shell, and operation is undertaken by the people that wear this hearing assistance device;

(d) utilize selected initial adjustment program operation hearing assistance device in the initial adjustment pattern;

(e) through using the initial adjustment pattern after a period of time, selected initial adjustment program can be selected by people;

(f) select in fine setting program or step (c) one of them in selected initial adjustment program for the treatment of digital audio and video signals, selection course is completed by the instantaneous push-button switch that operation is positioned on portable shell, and operation is undertaken by the people that wear this hearing assistance device;

(g) utilize selected program operation hearing assistance device in step (f).

12. one kind is used for improving hearing impaired people to the programmable device of perception of sound ability, device comprises:

Be configured to be worn in hearing impaired people's ear, on ear or hard of hearing portable shell;

Be located at the memory in portable shell, store available a plurality of audio frequency handling procedures in processing digital audio and video signals in memory;

Be located in portable shell and the processor that is connected with memory, processor is used for carrying out one or more selected audio frequency handling procedure to be processed digital audio and video signals;

Be located on portable shell and the choice device that is connected with processor, described choice device selects an audio frequency handling procedure for the treatment of digital audio and video signals under hearing impaired people's operation;

Be located at the digital/analog converter in portable shell, digital/analog converter produces the output simulated audio signal based on digital audio and video signals; And

Be located at the audio output unit in portable shell, audio output unit receives and amplifies and export simulated audio signal, the sound that generation can be heard take it as the impaired hearing people on basis and the sound that can hear offer hearing impaired people, and audio output unit further produces one or more sound and shows that to hearing impaired people which audio frequency handling procedure is selected to the processing digital audio and video signals at present;

Wherein do not need device is connected with any external equipment when determining current selected audio frequency handling procedure.

13. one kind is used for improving people to the programmable device of perception of sound ability, device comprises:

Be configured to be worn on people's the interior portable shell of hard of hearing or ear;

Be located at the processor in portable shell, carry out the prepackage program that one or more is processed digital audio and video signals based on control signal;

Be located at the digital/analog converter in portable shell, produce the output simulated audio signal based on digital audio and video signals;

Be located at the audio output unit in portable shell, reception and amplification output simulated audio signal, the sound that the audible voice of generation take it as the basis also can be heard offers the user;

Be located at portable shell built-in storage, wherein store one or more for the treatment of the prepackage program of digital audio and video signals, memory can be accessed by processor;

Instantaneous push-button switch is operated by the user;

Controller with described instantaneous push-button switch and processor communication, controller produces the first or second control signal based on the duration that the user presses instantaneous push-button switch, produce the first control signal when pressing instantaneous push-button switch certain time length Time Controller, produce the second control signal when pressing instantaneous push-button switch certain time length Time Controller, wherein for generation of the duration of the second control signal from different for generation of the duration of the first control signal;

Processor stops a prepackage program implementation and begins another prepackage program implementation based on the first control signal; And

Processor specifies at least one prepackage program as selected program based on the second control signal.

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