EP1489882A2 - Method for operating a hearing aid system as well as a hearing aid system with a microphone system in which different directional characteristics are selectable. - Google Patents

Method for operating a hearing aid system as well as a hearing aid system with a microphone system in which different directional characteristics are selectable. Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1489882A2
EP1489882A2 EP04010127A EP04010127A EP1489882A2 EP 1489882 A2 EP1489882 A2 EP 1489882A2 EP 04010127 A EP04010127 A EP 04010127A EP 04010127 A EP04010127 A EP 04010127A EP 1489882 A2 EP1489882 A2 EP 1489882A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
microphone
signal
hearing aid
signals
microphone signals
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Withdrawn
Application number
EP04010127A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1489882A3 (en
Inventor
Torsten Dr. Niedertränk
Tom Weidner
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Sivantos GmbH
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Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH
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Application filed by Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH filed Critical Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH
Publication of EP1489882A2 publication Critical patent/EP1489882A2/en
Publication of EP1489882A3 publication Critical patent/EP1489882A3/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/40—Arrangements for obtaining a desired directivity characteristic
    • H04R25/407—Circuits for combining signals of a plurality of transducers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2225/41—Detection or adaptation of hearing aid parameters or programs to listening situation, e.g. pub, forest
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2225/43—Signal processing in hearing aids to enhance the speech intelligibility
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2430/00—Signal processing covered by H04R, not provided for in its groups
    • H04R2430/03—Synergistic effects of band splitting and sub-band processing

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for operating a hearing aid with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter, the microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, of which Microphone signals go out and the directional characteristics different Show order.
  • the invention further relates to a hearing aid for performing the method.
  • Classification devices are found in modern hearing aids of listening situations use. Depending on the listening situation the transmission parameters of the hearing aid are automatic varied.
  • the classification can include influence have on the mode of operation of noise suppression algorithms as well as the microphone system. For example selected depending on the recognized hearing situation (switched discretely or continuously blended) between one omnidirectional polar pattern (polar pattern zero order) and a clear directivity of the microphone system (Polar pattern of first or higher order).
  • Gradient microphones are used to generate the directional characteristic used or multiple omnidirectional microphones electrically interconnected. Such microphone systems show a frequency-dependent transmission behavior in which a there is a clear drop to low frequencies. In contrast, the noise behavior of the microphones is frequency-independent and slightly compared to an omnidirectional microphone strengthened.
  • the high-pass frequency response of the microphone system can be compensated for by amplifying the low frequencies.
  • the noise present in the low frequency range is thereby also reinforced and, under certain circumstances, clear and disturbing audible, while soft noises are masked by the noise become.
  • a hearing aid with a Signal processing unit and at least two microphones the different to form directional microphone systems Order can be interconnected, the directional microphone systems in turn in the frequency of that of the Microphones emitted microphone signals depending on the weighting are interconnectable. Depending on the result the cutoff frequency between adjacent Frequency bands where a different Weighting of the microphone signals is provided become.
  • DE 197 03 228 A1 describes a method for reinforcement known from input signals of a hearing aid, in which under Using an AGC (Automatic Gain Control) circuit a compression the signals picked up by the hearing aid depending of the detectable signal level.
  • AGC Automatic Gain Control
  • the compression varies adaptively.
  • the signal analysis as well as the compression can also be in parallel in different Frequency bands are carried out.
  • a hearing aid with directional microphone system is known from EP 0 942 627 A2 with a signal processing device, a handset and several microphones known, the output signals for Generation of an individual directional microphone characteristic via Delay devices and the signal processing device Can be interconnected in different weightings are.
  • the preferred one Reception direction (main direction) in adaptation to one present hearing situation can be adjusted individually.
  • a hearing aid with an omnidirectional Microphone and a directional microphone First or higher order known.
  • the directional microphone signal Microphones will be in the range of low signal frequencies Amplitude amplified and the microphone signal of the omnidirectional Microphones adjusted.
  • Both the microphone signal from the omnidirectional microphone as well as the microphone signal of the Directional microphones are fed to a switchover unit. In a first switch position of the switchover unit, this is omnidirectional microphone and in a second switch position the switching unit the directional microphone with a hearing aid amplifier connected.
  • the switching unit can be dependent the signal level of a microphone signal automatically switch.
  • a disadvantage of the known hearing aids with a directional microphone system is that in certain listening situations either the directionality of the microphone system is not used optimally or that a high degree of directivity becomes a clearly audible deterioration in sound quality results.
  • the object of the present invention is the sound quality to improve a hearing aid with directional microphone system.
  • the task is also carried out with a hearing aid of the method with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter
  • the Microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, from which emit microphone signals and the directional characteristics of different order, solved by means of Splitting the microphone signals of the microphone units with Polar patterns of different order in several Frequency bands, means for performing signal analysis at least one of the microphone signals and means for different Weighting of the microphone signals in the individual Frequency bands depending on the result of the signal analysis.
  • the hearing aid according to the invention comprises a microphone system with at least two microphones for directional characteristics zero and first order. Preferably however, there are more than two microphones, so that directional characteristics of second and higher order possible are.
  • the hearing aid device further comprises a signal processing unit for processing and frequency dependent Amplification of the microphone signal generated by the microphone system.
  • the signal is usually output by an acoustic signal Output signal using a handset. But there are also others, e.g. Output transducers generating vibrations are known.
  • a microphone unit with a directional characteristic first order can for example through a single gradient microphone or the electrical Connection of two omnidirectional microphones implemented become.
  • first order directional microphones is a theoretical one achievable maximum value of the directive index (DI) of 6 dB (hypercardioid).
  • DI directive index
  • Directional microphones second and higher order have DI values of 10 dB and more, for example for better speech intelligibility are advantageous.
  • a hearing aid contains a microphone system with three omnidirectional microphones, for example can be based on this by suitable connection of the microphones at the same time microphone units with directional characteristics zero to second order can be realized.
  • a single omnidirectional microphone provides one Microphone unit represents zero order. Is with two omnidirectional Microphones delay the microphone signal of a microphone, inverted and to the microphone signal of the other microphone added, this creates a first-order microphone unit. Again, with two first order microphone units the microphone signal of a microphone unit is delayed, inverted and the microphone signal of the second microphone unit added first order, this results in a microphone unit with second order polar pattern. Leave this way itself - depending on the number of omnidirectional microphones - Realize microphone units of any order.
  • a microphone system comprises different microphone units Order, so there can be between different directional characteristics can be switched, e.g. by switching on or off one or more microphones. Furthermore, a suitable electrical connection of the microphone units also any mixed forms between the directional characteristics different order are generated. For this, the Microphone signals of the microphone units weighted differently and added before being in the signal processing unit of the hearing aid are processed and amplified. So a continuous, smooth transition between different directional characteristics can be realized, thereby avoiding annoying artifacts when switching to let.
  • the hearing aid according to the invention advantageously takes place with at least one microphone signal, a signal analysis, with of certain properties of the microphone signal become.
  • a signal analysis in connection with the Invention is dependent on these signal properties the signal frequency can be determined. This makes it possible the weighting of microphone signals by microphone units go out with different directivity, depending the result of the signal analysis adaptively to the respective Adapt hearing situation. So in every frequency range one optimized for the respective frequency range Directivity can be set. In particular, it can as much directivity as possible are allowed without the proportion of the noise caused by the microphone system in the output signal of the hearing aid as disturbing is felt.
  • This effect produced by the invention is achieved in that a directivity only in the frequency ranges of the useful signal is generated, in which an increased Microphone noise at most a slight deterioration in sound caused for the hearing aid wearer. Becomes e.g. in the "conversation" listening situation, only a high signal level found in the frequency range between 1 kHz and 3 kHz, so gets the microphone signal in this frequency range from the microphone unit with the highest order that greatest weight. In the other frequency ranges with lower ones Signal levels are advantageous by an appropriate Weighting of the microphone signals on a directivity at least largely dispensed with.
  • the signal level of the Microphone signal determined depending on the signal frequency.
  • the following rough settings of the microphone system can then be made from this derive: With a high signal level of the microphone signal the microphone noise from the input signal covered and not perceived as disturbing. So in one such a high hearing situation with the microphone system achievable order of directivity can be set. Different however with a very quiet input signal. Here can that caused by the directivity of the microphone system Microphone noise can be perceived as annoying. Is expedient it, at least largely in such a listening situation to forego the directivity and only the omnidirectional Processing the microphone signal or that Weight of the microphone signals from higher microphone units Reduce order.
  • the microphone system advantageously assigned a measuring and control unit directly.
  • a measuring and control unit In addition to direct level measurement, others can also Measurements are carried out, e.g. Measurement of the quadratic Mean RMS (Root Mean Square), which is directly related stand with the signal level of the input signal and Allow conclusions on this. Starting from what is measured Value, the measuring and control unit controls the directional characteristic of the microphone system.
  • quadratic Mean RMS Root Mean Square
  • the invention offers the advantage that at low signal levels the directivity of the acoustic input signal Microphone system is automatically reduced. In particular an omnidirectional at low input signal levels Directional characteristics of the microphone system set. tiresome Microphone noise, especially at low signal levels can be prevented.
  • Signal properties are measured, e.g. the modulation frequency or the modulation depth. Other examples are the Slope of the envelope or the characteristic of the zero crossing. According to the invention, this is determined Signal properties depending on the signal frequency.
  • the signal to be analyzed is divided into several Frequency bands divided. Then in the frequency domain or the directivity in the frequency ranges of the input signal increased according to the result of the signal analysis for the hearing aid wearer is of particular importance. This can for example be a frequency range where the result the modulation analysis indicates a speech signal.
  • the weighting of the microphone signals also on a combinatorial evaluation of several signal properties based, e.g. the signal level and the modulation frequency.
  • this is from the omnidirectional Microphone unit generated microphone signal analyzed.
  • This has the advantage that when analyzing signals different directions in the microphone system Sound signals are taken into account equally.
  • the microphone signal directional microphone This can e.g. "Conversation” can be an advantage in the listening situation the conversation partner of the hearing aid wearer in the direction of view is suspected and therefore advantageously the microphone signal microphone unit oriented in this direction is analyzed becomes. The best results when analyzing the current However, the sound field is obtained when the microphone signals of several microphone units evaluated simultaneously become.
  • the microphone signal to be processed is used usually first divided into frequency bands.
  • the output signals of each Microphones divided into individual frequency bands.
  • the microphone signals in the individual frequency bands for the generation of microphone units with directional characteristics different order interconnected.
  • Another Embodiment of the invention provides that initially Microphone units are provided that are related differentiate their directional characteristics to subsequently the output signals of these microphone units in frequency bands to divide. Also the different ones depending on the frequency Weighting the microphone signals of the microphone units different order is then advantageous in these frequency bands, preferably both the weights the microphone signals of different microphone units in a frequency band as well as the weights of one Microphone unit outgoing microphone signals in different Frequency bands can be set independently of one another.
  • the analysis is preferably also carried out in the invention of the microphone signal or signals in parallel in the individual Frequency bands.
  • This is particularly advantageous because because achieving directivity in the low frequency range is problematic anyway.
  • the microphone system can be set so that this in the low-frequency bands only at very high signal levels acts as a directional microphone and at lower signal levels is only set to omnidirectional reception. In Frequency bands with higher frequencies, however, can already a directivity of the microphone system at lower signal levels be activated.
  • the invention can be used with all known hearing aid types be used with a directional microphone system, for example hearing aids worn behind the ear, in which Ear portable hearing aids, implantable hearing aids or pocket hearing aids.
  • the hearing aid according to the invention also part of a plurality of devices for Care of a hearing aid system that is comprehensive for the hearing impaired be, e.g. Part of a hearing aid system with two worn on the head Hearing aids for binaural care or part a hearing aid system consisting of a wearable on the head Device and a processor unit that can be worn on the body.
  • FIG. 1 shows the simplified block diagram of a hearing aid with a directional microphone system.
  • the directional microphone system includes three omnidirectional microphones 1A, 1B and 1C.
  • the omnidirectional microphones are 1A, 1B and 1C, respectively directly a signal preprocessing unit 2A, 2B or 2C downstream. In this e.g. an A / D conversion as well signal pre-amplification takes place.
  • the two microphones 1A and 1B are electrical to a microphone unit with directional characteristic first order interconnected.
  • the omnidirectional microphone 1B outgoing microphone signal in a circuit unit 3B delayed and inverted and so on like the microphone signal emanating from the microphone 1A Totalizer 4B supplied.
  • the two omnidirectional microphones also form the same 1B and 1C by delaying and inverting that of the Microphone 1C outgoing microphone signal and addition of the the microphone signal 1B outgoing microphone signal in the summer 4C, a microphone unit with a first-order directional characteristic.
  • the microphone signal coming from the summer 4C delayed and inverted in the circuit unit 5C and added to the microphone signal R1, it is thereby a second-order directional microphone unit educated. This goes at the output of the summer 6C Microphone signal R2 emerges.
  • the output signal of the omnidirectional Microphones 1A with directional characteristic of zero order is called R0.
  • the microphone signal R0 of a filter bank 7A Microphone signal R1 of a filter bank 7B and the microphone signal R2 fed to a filter bank 7C.
  • the three filter banks 7A, 7B and 7C in the exemplary embodiment lead to a splitting of the respective microphone signal in three adjacent frequency bands. A division is made in each filter bank of the respective microphone signal in the same frequency bands.
  • the microphone signals K1A are at the output of the filter bank 7A, K2A and K3A.
  • the microphone signals at the output are analog the filter bank 7B with K1B, K2B, K3B and the microphone signals labeled K1C, K2C and K3C at the output of the filter bank 7C.
  • the output signals of the filter banks 7A, 7B and 7C are for Evaluation of a signal analysis and control unit 8 supplied. This is where the microphone signals from the microphone units with directional characteristics of different order in the different frequency bands analyzed.
  • the signal analysis includes in particular the determination of the signal level of the respective microphone signals. However, others can characteristic signal quantities, such as the modulation frequency, the depth of modulation, the slope of the envelope or the characteristic of the zero crossing is determined and be evaluated.
  • control parameters are in the signal analysis and control unit calculated by means of which the directional characteristic in the individual frequency bands can be set.
  • the output signals of the filter banks 7A, 7B and 7C respectively an amplifier V1A, V1B, V1C or V2A, V2B, V2C or V3A, V3B, V3C supplied.
  • the respective reinforcement by the Amplifier is through the signal analysis and control unit 8th set using the calculated parameters. This will optimizes the directional characteristic in the individual frequency bands.
  • the directional characteristic is preferably so set that the highest possible directivity exists without, however, an increase that is perceived as disturbing cause the microphone noise.
  • the microphone signals of the directional microphones can be used with a hearing aid with the shown Microphone system any order between the zeroth and the second order, so any one "Interim Order".
  • the degree of directivity can thus be between of the highest order and no directionality arbitrarily vary, including all intermediate stages are. This means that the optimum level can be set for each input signal Directivity set with the relevant microphone system become. It should be taken into account that the optimal dimension in directionality also from the individual's hearing loss Hearing aid wearer may be dependent.
  • the individual course the directional characteristic curves result in particular from taking audiological parameters into account, e.g. the Resting hearing threshold of a hearing aid wearer in the individual frequency ranges, or taking hearing aid settings into account, such as. an automatic device that is common in hearing aids Gain control AGC (Automatic Gain Control) or the cross section of a ventilation opening.
  • Gain control AGC Automatic Gain Control
  • the microphone system according to the invention enables in particular the setting of an individual course of the directivity depending on the input signal. A hard “switch" between different directives and the associated switching artifacts when changing the This prevents listening situations.
  • Amplifiers V1A to V3C added amplified microphone signals and for further processing of a signal processing unit 9 fed.
  • the signal processing unit 9 the frequency-dependent amplification of the microphone signal M to compensate the individual hearing loss of the hearing aid wearer instead of.
  • This signal processing is also preferably carried out in different frequency bands (channels) of the signal processing unit 9. These frequency bands can be advantageous with regard to number and channel limits also independent of the division generated by the filter banks 7A to 7C his. Alternatively, however, the different gain individual frequency bands to compensate for hearing loss as well already taken over by the amplifiers V1A to V3C become.
  • the signal analysis and control unit 8 is for this to program accordingly.
  • the signal processing unit 9 in this case there is only signal postprocessing, e.g. Final amplification and D / A conversion.
  • Figure 2 illustrates examples of different directional effects R in a frequency band depending on the signal level P in this frequency band.
  • the directionality R can any values between an omnidirectional (nonexistent) Directivity and the maximum, with the microphone system reachable directivity.
  • the characteristic A is at a very low signal level in that Frequency band no directivity available.
  • the directivity however increases with increasing level in the frequency band almost linearly, until the maximum at a certain level Directivity is reached.
  • the characteristic curve B shows with increasing Signal level in the respective frequency band initially only a slight increase in directivity. Only with a lot at high signal levels there is a steep increase in directivity.
  • Such a non-linear characteristic should in particular be set in a low frequency frequency band since directional microphones act as low passes and therefore a quiet one low-frequency input signal requires high amplification, which leads to increased noise. Therefore, in the low frequency range the directivity is advantageously only used, when a high signal level of the input signal in this frequency range is present and therefore only a slight gain is required.
  • a directivity according to the third characteristic curve C is already a proportionate at a low signal level high directivity set. For that is the increase in Directionality with increasing input level smaller than in two previous examples.
  • Such a directivity depending on the signal level is especially for one higher frequency range advantageous because in this by High pass characteristic of the directional microphone system also with low signal level of the input signal and a high one Amplification by the hearing aid only a slight increase microphone noise caused by the high directivity becomes.

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

Abstract

The hearing aid has a microphone system (1A-1C), a signal processing unit (9) and an output transducer (10), whereby the microphone system contains at least two microphones from which microphone signals (R0-R2) emanate and that have directional characteristics of different order. The method involves carrying out a signal analysis on at least one microphone signal to determine signal characteristics at defined frequencies or in defined frequency bands and differently weighting the signals output from the microphone units with different directional characteristic depending on the results of the signal analysis and the frequency of the microphone signal. An independent claim is also included for the following: (a) a hearing aid for implementing the inventive method.

Description

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

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

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

Aus der DE 197 03 228 A1 ist ein Verfahren zur Verstärkung von Eingangssignalen eines Hörgerätes bekannt, bei dem unter Einsatz einer AGC(Automatic Gain Control)-Schaltung eine Kompression der vom Hörgerät aufgenommenen Signale in Abhängigkeit des erfassbaren Signalpegels erfolgt. Zusätzlich zur Erfassung des Signalpegels des Eingangssignals wird eine Signalanalyse zur Erkennung der akustischen Situation durchgeführt und aufgrund des Ergebnisses der Signalanalyse das Verhalten der Kompression adaptiv variiert. Die Signalanalyse sowie die Kompression können auch parallel in unterschiedlichen Frequenzbändern durchgeführt werden.DE 197 03 228 A1 describes a method for reinforcement known from input signals of a hearing aid, in which under Using an AGC (Automatic Gain Control) circuit a compression the signals picked up by the hearing aid depending of the detectable signal level. In addition to capturing the signal level of the input signal becomes a signal analysis performed to detect the acoustic situation and behavior based on the result of the signal analysis the compression varies adaptively. The signal analysis as well as the compression can also be in parallel in different Frequency bands are carried out.

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

Aus der US 5,524,056 ist ein Hörgerät mit einem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon und einem direktionalen Mikrofon erster oder höherer Ordnung bekannt. Das Mikrofonsignal des direktionalen Mikrofons wird im Bereich niedriger Signalfrequenzen in seiner Amplitude verstärkt und dem Mikrofonsignal des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons angeglichen. Sowohl das Mikrofonsignal des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons als auch das Mikrofonsignal des direktionalen Mikrofons sind einer Umschalteinheit zugeführt. In einer ersten Schaltstellung der Umschalteinheit ist das omnidirektionale Mikrofon und in einer zweiten Schaltstellung der Umschalteinheit das direktionale Mikrofon mit einem Hörgeräte-Verstärker verbunden. Die Umschalteinheit kann in Abhängigkeit des Signalpegels eines Mikrofonsignals automatisch umschalten.From US 5,524,056 is a hearing aid with an omnidirectional Microphone and a directional microphone first or higher order known. The directional microphone signal Microphones will be in the range of low signal frequencies Amplitude amplified and the microphone signal of the omnidirectional Microphones adjusted. Both the microphone signal from the omnidirectional microphone as well as the microphone signal of the Directional microphones are fed to a switchover unit. In a first switch position of the switchover unit, this is omnidirectional microphone and in a second switch position the switching unit the directional microphone with a hearing aid amplifier connected. The switching unit can be dependent the signal level of a microphone signal automatically switch.

Nachteilig bei den bekannten Hörhilfegeräten mit einem Richtmikrofonsystem ist, dass in bestimmten Hörsituationen entweder die Richtwirkung des Mikrofonsystems nicht optimal verwendet wird oder dass ein hoher Grad an Richtwirkung zu einer deutlich hörbaren Verschlechterung der Klangqualität führt.A disadvantage of the known hearing aids with a directional microphone system is that in certain listening situations either the directionality of the microphone system is not used optimally or that a high degree of directivity becomes a clearly audible deterioration in sound quality results.

Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung ist es, die Klangqualität eines Hörhilfegerätes mit Richtmikrofonsystem zu verbessern.The object of the present invention is the sound quality to improve a hearing aid with directional microphone system.

Diese Aufgabe wird bei einem Verfahren zum Betrieb eines Hörhilfegerätes mit einem Mikrofonsystem, einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit und einem Ausgangswandler, wobei das Mikrofonsystem wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, gelöst durch folgende Verfahrensschritte:

  • a) Durchführen einer Signalanalyse bei wenigstens einem Mikrofonsignal zum Ermitteln von Signaleigenschaften bei bestimmten Frequenzen oder innerhalb bestimmter Frequenzbänder,
  • b) unterschiedliche Gewichtung der von den Mikrofoneinheiten mit unterschiedlicher Richtcharakteristik ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale in Abhängigkeit des Ergebnisses der Signalanalyse und der Frequenz der Mikrofonsignale.
    • This object is achieved in a method for operating a hearing aid device with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter, the microphone system comprising at least two microphone units, from which microphone signals originate and have directional characteristics of different orders, by the following method steps:
  • a) performing a signal analysis on at least one microphone signal to determine signal properties at certain frequencies or within certain frequency bands,
  • b) different weighting of the microphone signals emanating from the microphone units with different directional characteristics depending on the result of the signal analysis and the frequency of the microphone signals.

    • Ferner wird die Aufgabe bei einem Hörhilfegerät zur Durchführung des Verfahrens mit einem Mikrofonsystem, einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit und einem Ausgangswandler, wobei das Mikrofonsystem wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, gelöst durch Mittel zur Aufspaltung der Mikrofonsignale der Mikrofoneinheiten mit Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung in mehrere Frequenzbänder, Mittel zur Durchführung einer Signalanalyse bei wenigstens einem der Mikrofonsignale sowie Mittel zur unterschiedlichen Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern in Abhängigkeit des Ergebnisses der Signalanalyse.The task is also carried out with a hearing aid of the method with a microphone system, a signal processing unit and an output converter, the Microphone system comprises at least two microphone units, from which emit microphone signals and the directional characteristics of different order, solved by means of Splitting the microphone signals of the microphone units with Polar patterns of different order in several Frequency bands, means for performing signal analysis at least one of the microphone signals and means for different Weighting of the microphone signals in the individual Frequency bands depending on the result of the signal analysis.

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

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

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

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

    Bei dem Hörhilfegerät gemäß der Erfindung erfolgt vorteilhaft bei wenigstens einem Mikrofonsignal eine Signalanalyse, bei der bestimmte Eigenschaften des Mikrofonsignals festgestellt werden. Wichtig bei der Signalanalyse im Zusammenhang mit der Erfindung ist, dass diese Signaleigenschaften in Abhängigkeit der Signalfrequenz ermittelt werden. Dadurch wird es möglich, die Gewichtung von Mikrofonsignalen, die von Mikrofoneinheiten mit unterschiedlicher Richtwirkung ausgehen, in Abhängigkeit des Ergebnisses der Signalanalyse adaptiv an die jeweilige Hörsituation anzupassen. So kann in jedem Frequenzbereich eine für den jeweiligen Frequenzbereich optimierte Richtwirkung eingestellt werden. Insbesondere kann dadurch so viel Richtwirkung wie möglich zugelassen werden, ohne dass dabei der Anteil des von dem Mikrofonsystem verursachten Rauschens in dem Ausgangssignal des Hörhilfegerätes als störend empfunden wird. Dieser durch die Erfindung erzeugte Effekt wird dadurch erreicht, dass eine Richtwirkung nur in den Frequenzbereichen des Nutzsignals erzeugt wird, in denen ein erhöhtes Mikrofonrauschen allenfalls eine geringfügige Klangverschlechterung für den Hörgeräteträger verursacht. Wird z.B. in der Hörsituation "Gespräch" ein hoher Signalpegel lediglich in dem Frequenzbereich zwischen 1 kHz und 3 kHz festgestellt, so bekommt in diesem Frequenzbereich das Mikrofonsignal von der Mikrofoneinheit mit der höchsten Ordnung das größte Gewicht. In den anderen Frequenzbereichen mit niedrigeren Signalpegeln wird vorteilhaft durch eine entsprechende Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale auf eine Richtwirkung zumindest weitgehend verzichtet.The hearing aid according to the invention advantageously takes place with at least one microphone signal, a signal analysis, with of certain properties of the microphone signal become. Important for signal analysis in connection with the Invention is dependent on these signal properties the signal frequency can be determined. This makes it possible the weighting of microphone signals by microphone units go out with different directivity, depending the result of the signal analysis adaptively to the respective Adapt hearing situation. So in every frequency range one optimized for the respective frequency range Directivity can be set. In particular, it can as much directivity as possible are allowed without the proportion of the noise caused by the microphone system in the output signal of the hearing aid as disturbing is felt. This effect produced by the invention is achieved in that a directivity only in the frequency ranges of the useful signal is generated, in which an increased Microphone noise at most a slight deterioration in sound caused for the hearing aid wearer. Becomes e.g. in the "conversation" listening situation, only a high signal level found in the frequency range between 1 kHz and 3 kHz, so gets the microphone signal in this frequency range from the microphone unit with the highest order that greatest weight. In the other frequency ranges with lower ones Signal levels are advantageous by an appropriate Weighting of the microphone signals on a directivity at least largely dispensed with.

    Vorzugsweise wird bei der Signalanalyse der Signalpegel des Mikrofonsignals in Abhängigkeit der Signalfrequenz bestimmt. Preferably, the signal level of the Microphone signal determined depending on the signal frequency.

    Daraus lassen sich dann grob folgende Einstellungen des Mikrofonsystems ableiten: Bei einem hohen Signalpegel des Mikrofonsignals wird das Mikrofonrauschen von dem Eingangssignal überdeckt und nicht als störend wahrgenommen. So kann in einer derartigen Hörsituation eine hohe, mit dem Mikrofonsystem erzielbare Ordnung der Richtwirkung eingestellt werden. Anders hingegen bei einem sehr leisen Eingangssignal. Hier kann das durch die Richtwirkung des Mikrofonsystems hervorgerufene Mikrofonrauschen als störend empfunden werden. Zweckmäßig ist es daher, in einer derartigen Hörsituation zumindest weitgehend auf die Richtwirkung zu verzichten und lediglich das omnidirektionale Mikrofonsignal weiterzuverarbeiten bzw. das Gewicht der Mikrofonsignale von Mikrofoneinheiten höherer Ordnung zu reduzieren.The following rough settings of the microphone system can then be made from this derive: With a high signal level of the microphone signal the microphone noise from the input signal covered and not perceived as disturbing. So in one such a high hearing situation with the microphone system achievable order of directivity can be set. Different however with a very quiet input signal. Here can that caused by the directivity of the microphone system Microphone noise can be perceived as annoying. Is expedient it, at least largely in such a listening situation to forego the directivity and only the omnidirectional Processing the microphone signal or that Weight of the microphone signals from higher microphone units Reduce order.

    Zum Erfassen des Signalpegels des akustischen Eingangssignals bei einem Hörhilfegerät gemäß der Erfindung ist dem Mikrofonsystem vorteilhaft eine Mess- und Steuereinheit direkt zugeordnet. Neben der direkten Pegelmessung können auch andere Messungen durchgeführt werden, z.B. Messung des quadratischen Mittelwertes RMS (Root Mean Square), die in direktem Zusammenhang mit dem Signalpegel des Eingangssignals stehen und Rückschlüsse auf diesen zulassen. Ausgehend von dem so gemessenen Wert steuert die Mess- und Steuereinheit die Richtcharakteristik des Mikrofonsystems.To detect the signal level of the acoustic input signal in a hearing aid according to the invention is the microphone system advantageously assigned a measuring and control unit directly. In addition to direct level measurement, others can also Measurements are carried out, e.g. Measurement of the quadratic Mean RMS (Root Mean Square), which is directly related stand with the signal level of the input signal and Allow conclusions on this. Starting from what is measured Value, the measuring and control unit controls the directional characteristic of the microphone system.

    Die Erfindung bietet den Vorteil, dass bei niedrigen Signalpegeln des akustischen Eingangssignals die Richtwirkung des Mikrofonsystems automatisch reduziert wird. Insbesondere wird bei niedrigen Eingangssignalpegeln eine omnidirektionale Richtcharakteristik des Mikrofonsystems eingestellt. Lästiges Mikrofonrauschen, das besonders bei niedrigen Signalpegeln als störend empfunden wird, kann so verhindert werden.The invention offers the advantage that at low signal levels the directivity of the acoustic input signal Microphone system is automatically reduced. In particular an omnidirectional at low input signal levels Directional characteristics of the microphone system set. tiresome Microphone noise, especially at low signal levels can be prevented.

    Neben dem Signalpegel kann jedoch auch eine Reihe weiterer Signaleigenschaften gemessen werden, z.B. die Modulationsfrequenz oder die Modulationstiefe. Weitere Beispiele sind die Steigung der Einhüllenden oder die Charakteristik des Nulldurchgangs. Gemäß der Erfindung erfolgt die Ermittlung dieser Signaleigenschaften in Abhängigkeit der Signalfrequenz. Vorteilhaft wird das zu analysierende Signal hierfür in mehrere Frequenzbänder unterteilt. Dann wird in dem Frequenzbereich bzw. in den Frequenzbereichen des Eingangssignals die Richtwirkung erhöht, die gemäß dem Ergebnis der Signalanalyse für den Hörgeräteträger von besonderer Bedeutung ist. Dies kann beispielsweise ein Frequenzbereich sein, bei dem das Ergebnis der Modulationsanalyse auf ein Sprachsignal hindeutet. Selbstverständlich kann die Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale auch auf einer kombinatorischen Auswertung mehrerer Signaleigenschaften beruhen, z.B. des Signalpegels und der Modulationsfrequenz.In addition to the signal level, a number of others can also be used Signal properties are measured, e.g. the modulation frequency or the modulation depth. Other examples are the Slope of the envelope or the characteristic of the zero crossing. According to the invention, this is determined Signal properties depending on the signal frequency. Advantageous the signal to be analyzed is divided into several Frequency bands divided. Then in the frequency domain or the directivity in the frequency ranges of the input signal increased according to the result of the signal analysis for the hearing aid wearer is of particular importance. This can for example be a frequency range where the result the modulation analysis indicates a speech signal. Of course, the weighting of the microphone signals also on a combinatorial evaluation of several signal properties based, e.g. the signal level and the modulation frequency.

    Bei einer Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird das von der omnidirektionalen Mikrofoneinheit erzeugte Mikrofonsignal analysiert. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass bei der Signalanalyse aus unterschiedlichen Richtungen in das Mikrofonsystem einfallende Schallsignale gleichermaßen berücksichtigt werden. Bei einer anderen Ausführungsform der Erfindung wird das Mikrofonsignal eines direktionalen Mikrofons analysiert. Dies kann z.B. in der Hörsituation "Gespräch" von Vorteil sein, bei der der Gesprächspartner des Hörgeräteträgers in Blickrichtung vermutet wird und daher vorteilhaft das Mikrofonsignal einer in diese Richtung ausgerichteten Mikrofoneinheit analysiert wird. Die besten Ergebnisse bei der Analyse des augenblicklichen Schallfeldes werden jedoch dann gewonnen, wenn die Mikrofonsignale mehrerer Mikrofoneinheiten gleichzeitig ausgewertet werden.In one embodiment of the invention, this is from the omnidirectional Microphone unit generated microphone signal analyzed. This has the advantage that when analyzing signals different directions in the microphone system Sound signals are taken into account equally. At a Another embodiment of the invention is the microphone signal directional microphone. This can e.g. "Conversation" can be an advantage in the listening situation the conversation partner of the hearing aid wearer in the direction of view is suspected and therefore advantageously the microphone signal microphone unit oriented in this direction is analyzed becomes. The best results when analyzing the current However, the sound field is obtained when the microphone signals of several microphone units evaluated simultaneously become.

    Bei modernen Hörhilfegeräten wird das zu verarbeitende Mikrofonsignal üblicherweise zunächst in Frequenzbänder unterteilt. Im Zusammenhang mit der Erfindung werden bei einer Ausführungsform zunächst die Ausgangssignale der einzelnen Mikrofone in einzelne Frequenzbänder unterteilt. Anschließend werden die Mikrofonsignale in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern zur Erzeugung von Mikrofoneinheiten mit Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung miteinander verschaltet. Eine andere Ausführungsform der Erfindung sieht vor, dass zunächst Mikrofoneinheiten bereitgestellt werden, die sich hinsichtlich ihrer Richtcharakteristik unterscheiden, um anschließend die Ausgangssignale dieser Mikrofoneinheiten in Frequenzbänder zu unterteilen. Auch die von der Frequenz abhängige, unterschiedliche Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale der Mikrofoneinheiten unterschiedlicher Ordnung erfolgt dann vorteilhaft in diesen Frequenzbändern, wobei vorzugsweise sowohl die Gewichte der Mikrofonsignale unterschiedlicher Mikrofoneinheiten in einem Frequenzband als auch die Gewichte der von einer Mikrofoneinheit ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale in unterschiedlichen Frequenzbändern unabhängig voneinander einstellbar sind.In modern hearing aids, the microphone signal to be processed is used usually first divided into frequency bands. In connection with the invention at a Embodiment first the output signals of each Microphones divided into individual frequency bands. Subsequently the microphone signals in the individual frequency bands for the generation of microphone units with directional characteristics different order interconnected. Another Embodiment of the invention provides that initially Microphone units are provided that are related differentiate their directional characteristics to subsequently the output signals of these microphone units in frequency bands to divide. Also the different ones depending on the frequency Weighting the microphone signals of the microphone units different order is then advantageous in these frequency bands, preferably both the weights the microphone signals of different microphone units in a frequency band as well as the weights of one Microphone unit outgoing microphone signals in different Frequency bands can be set independently of one another.

    Weiterhin erfolgt bei der Erfindung vorzugsweise auch die Analyse des bzw. der Mikrofonsignale parallel in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern. Dies ist insbesondere deshalb vorteilhaft, weil die Erzielung einer Richtwirkung im tiefen Frequenzbereich ohnehin problematisch ist. So kann gemäß der Erfindung das Mikrofonsystem so eingestellt werden, dass dieses in den tieffrequenten Frequenzbändern erst bei sehr hohen Signalpegeln als Richtmikrofon wirkt und bei niedrigeren Signalpegeln lediglich auf omnidirektionalen Empfang eingestellt ist. In Frequenzbändern mit höheren Frequenzen kann hingegen bereits bei niedrigeren Signalpegeln eine Richtwirkung des Mikrofonsystems aktiviert sein.Furthermore, the analysis is preferably also carried out in the invention of the microphone signal or signals in parallel in the individual Frequency bands. This is particularly advantageous because because achieving directivity in the low frequency range is problematic anyway. So according to the invention the microphone system can be set so that this in the low-frequency bands only at very high signal levels acts as a directional microphone and at lower signal levels is only set to omnidirectional reception. In Frequency bands with higher frequencies, however, can already a directivity of the microphone system at lower signal levels be activated.

    Durch die Möglichkeit, die von den Mikrofoneinheiten unterschiedlicher Ordnung ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale nahezu beliebig gewichten und summieren zu können, kann auch jede beliebige Zwischenstufe zwischen den einzelnen Ordnungen eingestellt werden. Dadurch lassen sich ein abruptes Umschalten zwischen verschiedenen Ordnungen und die damit verbundenen Umschaltartefakte vermeiden. Insbesondere werden auch bei einem Wechsel der Hörsituation die Gewichte der einzelnen Mikrofonsignale vorteilhaft nicht schlagartig von einem Anfangswert in einen neuen Endwert überführt, sondern ganz allmählich angeglichen.Due to the possibility of different from the microphone units Order outgoing microphone signals almost arbitrarily Being able to weight and sum can also be any Intermediate level between the individual orders set become. This allows an abrupt switchover between different orders and the related Avoid switching artifacts. In particular, even with one Changes in the listening situation, the weights of the individual microphone signals advantageously not suddenly from an initial value converted into a new final value, but very gradually equalized.

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

    Weitere Einzelheiten und Vorteile der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen.Further details and advantages of the invention emerge from the following description of exemplary embodiments.

    Es zeigen:

  • Figur 1 das Blockschaltbild eines Hörhilfegerätes mit einem Mikrofonsystem gemäß der Erfindung,
  • Figur 2 ein Diagramm zur Veranschaulichung der Richtwirkung des Mikrofonsystems in Abhängigkeit des Eingangsignalpegels.
    • Show it:
  • FIG. 1 shows the block diagram of a hearing aid with a microphone system according to the invention,
  • Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating the directivity of the microphone system as a function of the input signal level.

    • Figur 1 zeigt das vereinfachte Blockschaltbild eines Hörhilfegerätes mit einem Richtmikrofonsystem. Das Richtmikrofonsystem umfasst drei omnidirektionale Mikrofone 1A, 1B und 1C. Den omnidirektionalen Mikrofonen 1A, 1B und 1C ist jeweils direkt eine Signalvorverarbeitungseinheit 2A, 2B bzw. 2C nachgeschaltet. In dieser findet z.B. eine A/D-Wandlung sowie eine Signalvorverstärkung statt. Die beiden Mikrofone 1A und 1B sind elektrisch zu einer Mikrofoneinheit mit Richtcharakteristik erster Ordnung verschaltet. Hierzu wird das von dem omnidirektionalen Mikrofon 1B ausgehende Mikrofonsignal in einer Schaltungseinheit 3B verzögert und invertiert und ebenso wie das von dem Mikrofon 1A ausgehende Mikrofonsignal einem Summierer 4B zugeführt. Dadurch entsteht aus den beiden Mikrofonen 1A und 1B eine Mikrofoneinheit mit Richtcharakteristik erster Ordnung, aus der das Mikrofonsignal R1 hervorgeht. Ebenso bilden auch die beiden omnidirektionalen Mikrofone 1B und 1C durch Verzögerung und Invertierung des von dem Mikrofon 1C ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals und Addition des von dem Mikrofon 1B ausgehenden Mikrofonsignals in dem Summierer 4C eine Mikrofoneinheit mit Richtcharakteristik erster Ordnung. Wird wiederum das von dem Summierer 4C ausgehende Mikrofonsignal in der Schaltungseinheit 5C verzögert und invertiert und zu dem Mikrofonsignal R1 addiert, so wird dadurch eine Mikrofoneinheit mit Richtcharakteristik zweiter Ordnung gebildet. Aus dieser geht am Ausgang des Summierers 6C das Mikrofonsignal R2 hervor. Das Ausgangssignal des omnidirektionalen Mikrofons 1A mit Richtcharakteristik nullter Ordnung wird mit R0 bezeichnet.Figure 1 shows the simplified block diagram of a hearing aid with a directional microphone system. The directional microphone system includes three omnidirectional microphones 1A, 1B and 1C. The omnidirectional microphones are 1A, 1B and 1C, respectively directly a signal preprocessing unit 2A, 2B or 2C downstream. In this e.g. an A / D conversion as well signal pre-amplification takes place. The two microphones 1A and 1B are electrical to a microphone unit with directional characteristic first order interconnected. For this purpose, the omnidirectional microphone 1B outgoing microphone signal in a circuit unit 3B delayed and inverted and so on like the microphone signal emanating from the microphone 1A Totalizer 4B supplied. This creates from the two Microphones 1A and 1B a microphone unit with directional characteristic first order, from which the microphone signal R1 emerges. The two omnidirectional microphones also form the same 1B and 1C by delaying and inverting that of the Microphone 1C outgoing microphone signal and addition of the the microphone signal 1B outgoing microphone signal in the summer 4C, a microphone unit with a first-order directional characteristic. In turn, the microphone signal coming from the summer 4C delayed and inverted in the circuit unit 5C and added to the microphone signal R1, it is thereby a second-order directional microphone unit educated. This goes at the output of the summer 6C Microphone signal R2 emerges. The output signal of the omnidirectional Microphones 1A with directional characteristic of zero order is called R0.

    Zur Einteilung der Mikrofonsignale R0, R1 und R2 in Frequenzbänder ist das Mikrofonsignal R0 einer Filterbank 7A, das Mikrofonsignal R1 einer Filterbank 7B und das Mikrofonsignal R2 einer Filterbank 7C zugeführt. Die drei Filterbänke 7A, 7B und 7C im Ausführungsbeispiel führen zu einer Aufspaltung des jeweiligen Mikrofonsignals in drei aneinander grenzenden Frequenzbändern. Dabei erfolgt in jeder Filterbank eine Aufteilung des jeweiligen Mikrofonsignals in die gleichen Frequenzbänder.For dividing the microphone signals R0, R1 and R2 into frequency bands is the microphone signal R0 of a filter bank 7A Microphone signal R1 of a filter bank 7B and the microphone signal R2 fed to a filter bank 7C. The three filter banks 7A, 7B and 7C in the exemplary embodiment lead to a splitting of the respective microphone signal in three adjacent frequency bands. A division is made in each filter bank of the respective microphone signal in the same frequency bands.

    Am Ausgang der Filterbank 7A liegen die Mikrofonsignale K1A, K2A sowie K3A an. Analog sind die Mikrofonsignale am Ausgang der Filterbank 7B mit K1B, K2B, K3B sowie die Mikrofonsignale am Ausgang der Filterbank 7C mit K1C, K2C und K3C bezeichnet. Die Ausgangssignale der Filterbänke 7A, 7B sowie 7C sind zur Auswertung einer Signalanalyse- und Steuereinheit 8 zugeführt. In dieser werden die Mikrofonsignale der Mikrofoneinheiten mit Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung in den unterschiedlichen Frequenzbändern analysiert. Die Signalanalyse umfasst insbesondere die Ermittlung des Signalpegels der jeweiligen Mikrofonsignale. Es können jedoch auch andere charakteristische Signalgrößen, wie beispielsweise die Modulationsfrequenz, die Modulationstiefe, die Steigung der Einhüllenden oder die Charakteristik des Nulldurchgangs ermittelt und ausgewertet werden. Aus dem Ergebnis der Signalanalyse werden in der Signalanalyse- und Steuereinheit 8 Steuerparameter errechnet, mittels derer die Richtcharakteristik in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern eingestellt werden kann. Hierzu sind die Ausgangssignale der Filterbänke 7A, 7B sowie 7C jeweils einem Verstärker V1A, V1B, V1C bzw. V2A, V2B, V2C bzw. V3A, V3B, V3C zugeführt. Die jeweilige Verstärkung durch die Verstärker wird durch die Signalanalyse- und Steuereinheit 8 mittels der errechneten Parameter eingestellt. Dadurch wird die Richtcharakteristik in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern optimiert. Vorzugsweise wird dabei die Richtcharakteristik so eingestellt, dass eine möglichst hohe Richtwirkung vorhanden ist, ohne dabei jedoch eine als störend empfundene Erhöhung des Mikrofonrauschens zu verursachen. Im Anschluss an die unterschiedliche Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale der Richtmikrofone unterschiedlicher Ordnung in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern durch die Verstärker V1A bis V3C mit einstellbarer Verstärkung werden die Ausgangssignale der Verstärker zunächst innerhalb der Frequenzbänder mittels Summierer S1, S2 sowie S3 addiert, wodurch die drei Mikrofonsignale K1, K2 und K3 entstehen. Diese wiederum sind einem Summierer S zugeführt, an dessen Ausgang das Mikrofonsignal des Mikrofonsystems abgegriffen werden kann. Dieses ist zur Weiterverarbeitung und Verstärkung durch das Hörhilfegerät einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit 9 zugeführt. Das daraus hervorgehende Ausgangssignal ist schließlich zur Wandlung in ein akustisches Signal einem Hörer 10 zugeführt, von dem das akustische Ausgangssignal in den Gehörgang eines Hörgeräteträgers abgegeben wird.The microphone signals K1A are at the output of the filter bank 7A, K2A and K3A. The microphone signals at the output are analog the filter bank 7B with K1B, K2B, K3B and the microphone signals labeled K1C, K2C and K3C at the output of the filter bank 7C. The output signals of the filter banks 7A, 7B and 7C are for Evaluation of a signal analysis and control unit 8 supplied. This is where the microphone signals from the microphone units with directional characteristics of different order in the different frequency bands analyzed. The signal analysis includes in particular the determination of the signal level of the respective microphone signals. However, others can characteristic signal quantities, such as the modulation frequency, the depth of modulation, the slope of the envelope or the characteristic of the zero crossing is determined and be evaluated. From the result of the signal analysis 8 control parameters are in the signal analysis and control unit calculated by means of which the directional characteristic in the individual frequency bands can be set. For this are the output signals of the filter banks 7A, 7B and 7C, respectively an amplifier V1A, V1B, V1C or V2A, V2B, V2C or V3A, V3B, V3C supplied. The respective reinforcement by the Amplifier is through the signal analysis and control unit 8th set using the calculated parameters. This will optimizes the directional characteristic in the individual frequency bands. The directional characteristic is preferably so set that the highest possible directivity exists without, however, an increase that is perceived as disturbing cause the microphone noise. Following the different Weighting of the microphone signals of the directional microphones different order in the individual frequency bands through the amplifiers V1A to V3C with adjustable gain the output signals of the amplifiers first within the frequency bands using summers S1, S2 and S3 adds, resulting in the three microphone signals K1, K2 and K3 arise. These in turn are fed to a summer S the microphone signal of the microphone system is tapped at its output can be. This is for further processing and Amplification by the hearing aid of a signal processing unit 9 fed. The resulting output signal is ultimately for conversion into an acoustic signal fed to a receiver 10, from which the acoustic output signal is given into the auditory canal of a hearing aid wearer.

    Durch die Möglichkeit, die Mikrofonsignale der Richtmikrofone nullter bis zweiter Ordnung unterschiedlich gewichten zu können, lässt sich bei einem Hörhilfegerät mit dem gezeigten Mikrofonsystem jede beliebige Ordnung zwischen der nullten und der zweiten Ordnung einstellen, also auch jede beliebige "Zwischenordnung". Das Maß an Richtwirkung kann damit zwischen der höchsten Ordnung und keiner Richtwirkung beliebig variieren, wobei auch alle Zwischenstufen eingeschlossen sind. So kann für jedes Eingangssignal das optimale Maß an Richtwirkung mit dem betreffenden Mikrofonsystem eingestellt werden. Dabei ist zu berücksichtigen, dass das optimale Maß an Richtwirkung auch von dem individuellen Hörverlust eines Hörgeräteträgers abhängig sein kann. Der individuelle Verlauf der Richtwirkungskennlinien ergibt sich insbesondere durch die Berücksichtigung audiologischer Kenngrößen, wie z.B. der Ruhehörschwelle eines Hörgeräteträgers in den einzelnen Frequenzbereichen, oder der Berücksichtigung von Hörgeräteeinstellungen, wie z.B. einer bei Hörhilfegeräten üblichen automatischen Verstärkungsregelung AGC (Automatic Gain Control) oder dem Querschnitt einer Ventilationsöffnung.Due to the possibility of the microphone signals of the directional microphones to be able to weight zero to second order differently, can be used with a hearing aid with the shown Microphone system any order between the zeroth and the second order, so any one "Interim Order". The degree of directivity can thus be between of the highest order and no directionality arbitrarily vary, including all intermediate stages are. This means that the optimum level can be set for each input signal Directivity set with the relevant microphone system become. It should be taken into account that the optimal dimension in directionality also from the individual's hearing loss Hearing aid wearer may be dependent. The individual course the directional characteristic curves result in particular from taking audiological parameters into account, e.g. the Resting hearing threshold of a hearing aid wearer in the individual frequency ranges, or taking hearing aid settings into account, such as. an automatic device that is common in hearing aids Gain control AGC (Automatic Gain Control) or the cross section of a ventilation opening.

    Das Mikrofonsystem gemäß der Erfindung ermöglicht insbesondere die Einstellung eines individuellen Verlaufes der Richtwirkung in Abhängigkeit des Eingangssignals. Ein hartes "Umschalten" zwischen unterschiedlichen Richtwirkungen und die damit verbundenen Umschaltartefakte bei einem Wechsel der Hörsituation werden dadurch vermieden.The microphone system according to the invention enables in particular the setting of an individual course of the directivity depending on the input signal. A hard "switch" between different directives and the associated switching artifacts when changing the This prevents listening situations.

    Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Figur 1 werden die in den Verstärkern V1A bis V3C verstärkten Mikrofonsignale addiert und zur Weiterverarbeitung einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit 9 zugeführt. In der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 9 findet die frequenzabhängige Verstärkung des Mikrofonsignals M zum Ausgleich des individuellen Hörverlustes des Hörgeräteträgers statt. Auch diese Signalverarbeitung erfolgt vorzugsweise in unterschiedlichen Frequenzbändern (Kanälen) der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 9. Dabei können diese Frequenzbänder vorteilhaft hinsichtlich Anzahl und Kanalgrenzen auch unabhängig von der durch die Filterbänke 7A bis 7C erzeugten Einteilung sein. Alternativ kann jedoch die unterschiedliche Verstärkung einzelner Frequenzbänder zum Ausgleich des Hörverlustes ebenfalls bereits durch die Verstärker V1A bis V3C übernommen werden. Die Signalanalyse- und Steuereinheit 8 ist hierfür entsprechend zu programmieren. In der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 9 erfolgt in diesem Fall lediglich eine Signalnachverarbeitung, z.B. Endverstärkung und D/A-Wandlung.In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG Amplifiers V1A to V3C added amplified microphone signals and for further processing of a signal processing unit 9 fed. In the signal processing unit 9 the frequency-dependent amplification of the microphone signal M to compensate the individual hearing loss of the hearing aid wearer instead of. This signal processing is also preferably carried out in different frequency bands (channels) of the signal processing unit 9. These frequency bands can be advantageous with regard to number and channel limits also independent of the division generated by the filter banks 7A to 7C his. Alternatively, however, the different gain individual frequency bands to compensate for hearing loss as well already taken over by the amplifiers V1A to V3C become. The signal analysis and control unit 8 is for this to program accordingly. In the signal processing unit 9 in this case there is only signal postprocessing, e.g. Final amplification and D / A conversion.

    Figur 2 veranschaulicht Beispiele unterschiedlicher Richtwirkungen R in einem Frequenzband in Abhängigkeit des Signalpegels P in diesem Frequenzband. Die Richtwirkung R kann dabei beliebige Werte zwischen einer omnidirektionalen (nicht vorhandenen) Richtwirkung und der maximalen, mit dem Mikrofonsystem erreichbaren Richtwirkung annehmen. Bei der Kennlinie A ist bei einem sehr niedrigen Signalpegel in dem betreffenden Frequenzband keine Richtwirkung vorhanden. Die Richtwirkung steigt jedoch mit zunehmendem Pegel in dem Frequenzband nahezu linear an, bis ab einem bestimmten Pegel die maximale Richtwirkung erreicht ist.Figure 2 illustrates examples of different directional effects R in a frequency band depending on the signal level P in this frequency band. The directionality R can any values between an omnidirectional (nonexistent) Directivity and the maximum, with the microphone system reachable directivity. With the characteristic A is at a very low signal level in that Frequency band no directivity available. The directivity however increases with increasing level in the frequency band almost linearly, until the maximum at a certain level Directivity is reached.

    Im Unterschied zur Kennlinie A zeigt die Kennlinie B mit zunehmendem Signalpegel in dem jeweiligen Frequenzband zunächst nur eine geringfügige Zunahme der Richtwirkung. Nur bei sehr hohen Signalpegeln erfolgt ein steiler Anstieg der Richtwirkung. Eine derartige nichtlineare Kennlinie sollte insbesondere in einem tieffrequenten Frequenzband eingestellt werden, da Richtmikrofone als Tiefpässe wirken und daher ein leises tieffrequentes Eingangssignal einer hohen Verstärkung bedarf, was zu einem erhöhten Rauschen führt. Daher wird im Tieftonbereich die Richtwirkung vorteilhaft nur dann ausgenutzt, wenn ein hoher Signalpegel des Eingangssignals in diesem Frequenzbereich vorliegt und daher nur eine geringfügige Verstärkung erforderlich ist.In contrast to the characteristic curve A, the characteristic curve B shows with increasing Signal level in the respective frequency band initially only a slight increase in directivity. Only with a lot at high signal levels there is a steep increase in directivity. Such a non-linear characteristic should in particular be set in a low frequency frequency band since directional microphones act as low passes and therefore a quiet one low-frequency input signal requires high amplification, which leads to increased noise. Therefore, in the low frequency range the directivity is advantageously only used, when a high signal level of the input signal in this frequency range is present and therefore only a slight gain is required.

    Bei einer Richtwirkung gemäß der dritten Kennlinie C ist bereits bei einem niedrigen Signalpegel eine verhältnismäßig hohe Richtwirkung eingestellt. Dafür ist die Zunahme der Richtwirkung bei zunehmendem Eingangspegel kleiner als in den beiden vorhergehenden Beispielen. Eine derartige Richtwirkung in Abhängigkeit des Signalpegels ist insbesondere für einen höheren Frequenzbereich vorteilhaft, da in diesem durch die Hochpasscharakteristik des Richtmikrofonsystems auch bei niedrigem Signalpegel des Eingangssignals und einer hohen Verstärkung durch das Hörhilfegerät nur eine geringfügige Zunahme des Mikrofonrauschens durch die hohe Richtwirkung verursacht wird.With a directivity according to the third characteristic curve C is already a proportionate at a low signal level high directivity set. For that is the increase in Directionality with increasing input level smaller than in two previous examples. Such a directivity depending on the signal level is especially for one higher frequency range advantageous because in this by High pass characteristic of the directional microphone system also with low signal level of the input signal and a high one Amplification by the hearing aid only a slight increase microphone noise caused by the high directivity becomes.

    Neben dem Signalpegel können auch andere Signaleigenschaften den Verlauf der Richtwirkung beeinflussen, wie z.B. die Modulationsfrequenz. Insbesondere kann die augenblicklich eingestellte Richtwirkung auch gleichzeitig von mehreren Parametern abhängig sein.In addition to the signal level, other signal properties can also influence the course of the directivity, e.g. the modulation frequency. In particular, the one currently set Directionality of several parameters at the same time be dependent.

    Claims (9)

    Verfahren zum Betrieb eines Hörhilfegerätes mit einem Mikrofonsystem (1A, 1B, 1C), einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit (9) und einem Ausgangswandler (10), wobei das Mikrofonsystem (1A, 1B, 1C) wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, mit folgenden Schritten: a) Durchführen einer Signalanalyse bei wenigstens einem Mikrofonsignal (R0, R1, R2) zum Ermitteln von Signaleigenschaften bei bestimmten Frequenzen oder innerhalb bestimmter Frequenzbänder, b) unterschiedliche Gewichtung der von den Mikrofoneinheiten (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) mit unterschiedlicher Richtcharakteristik ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) in Abhängigkeit des Ergebnisses der Signalanalyse und der Frequenz der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2). Method for operating a hearing aid device with a microphone system (1A, 1B, 1C), a signal processing unit (9) and an output converter (10), the microphone system (1A, 1B, 1C) comprising at least two microphone units (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C), from which microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) originate and which have directional characteristics of different orders, with the following steps: a) performing a signal analysis on at least one microphone signal (R0, R1, R2) to determine signal properties at certain frequencies or within certain frequency bands, b) different weighting of the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) emanating from the microphone units (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) with different directional characteristics depending on the result of the signal analysis and the frequency of the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2 ). Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, wobei die von den Mikrofoneinheiten (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) in mehrere Frequenzbänder eingeteilt werden und die unterschiedliche Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern erfolgt.The method of claim 1, wherein the from the microphone units (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) outgoing microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) can be divided into several frequency bands and the different weighting of the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) takes place in the individual frequency bands. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei die von den Mikrofoneinheiten (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) ausgehenden Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern analysiert werden.The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein the of the microphone units (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) outgoing microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) analyzed in the individual frequency bands become. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3, wobei die Analyse der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) die Ermittlung der Modulationsfrequenz und/oder der Modulationstiefe und/oder der Steigung der Einhüllenden und/oder der Charakteristik des Nulldurchgangs umfasst. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the analysis the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) the determination of the modulation frequency and / or the modulation depth and / or the Slope of the envelope and / or the characteristic of the Includes zero crossing. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, wobei die Analyse der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) die Ermittlung des Signalpegels umfasst.Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the analysis the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) the determination of the signal level includes. Verfahren nach Anspruch 5, wobei mit zunehmendem Signalpegel das Gewicht eines Mikrofonsignals (R0, R1, R2) einer Mikrofoneinheit (1A, 1B, 1C) mit Richtcharakteristik höherer Ordnung gegenüber dem Gewicht einer Mikrofoneinheit (1A) mit Richtcharakteristik niedrigerer Ordnung erhöht wird.A method according to claim 5, wherein with increasing signal level the weight of a microphone signal (R0, R1, R2) of a microphone unit (1A, 1B, 1C) with higher directional characteristics Order against the weight of a microphone unit (1A) with Directional characteristic of lower order is increased. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6, wobei bei der Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) die Ruhehörschwelle eines mit dem Hörhilfegerät versorgten Hörgeräteträgers berücksichtigt wird.Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein in the Weighting of the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) the resting hearing threshold a hearing aid wearer supplied with the hearing aid is taken into account. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, wobei bei der Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) Hörgeräteeinstellungen und insbesondere der Querschnitt einer Ventilationsöffnung berücksichtigt werden.Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein in the Weighting of the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) hearing aid settings and in particular the cross section of a ventilation opening be taken into account. Hörhilfegerät zur Durchführung des Verfahrens nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, mit einem Mikrofonsystem (1A, 1B, 1C), einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit (9) und einem Ausgangswandler (10), wobei das Mikrofonsystem (1A, 1B, 1C) wenigstens zwei Mikrofoneinheiten (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) umfasst, von denen Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) ausgehen und die Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung aufweisen, gekennzeichnet durch Mittel zur Aufspaltung der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) der Mikrofoneinheiten (1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) mit Richtcharakteristiken unterschiedlicher Ordnung in mehrere Frequenzbänder, Mittel zur Durchführung einer Signalanalyse bei wenigstens einem der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) sowie Mittel zur unterschiedlichen Gewichtung der Mikrofonsignale (R0, R1, R2) in den einzelnen Frequenzbändern in Abhängigkeit des Ergebnisses der Signalanalyse.Hearing aid for performing the method according to one of claims 1 to 8, with a microphone system (1A, 1B, 1C), a signal processing unit (9) and an output converter (10), the microphone system (1A, 1B, 1C) at least two microphone units ( 1A; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C), from which microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) originate and which have directional characteristics of different orders, characterized by means for splitting the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) of the microphone units (1A ; 1A, 1B; 1A, 1B, 1C) with directional characteristics of different orders in several frequency bands, means for performing a signal analysis on at least one of the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) and means for different weighting of the microphone signals (R0, R1, R2) in the individual frequency bands depending on the result of the signal analysis.
    EP04010127A 2003-06-20 2004-04-28 Method for operating a hearing aid system as well as a hearing aid system with a microphone system in which different directional characteristics are selectable. Withdrawn EP1489882A3 (en)

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    AU2004202682A1 (en) 2005-01-13
    AU2004202682B2 (en) 2007-01-11
    US20040258249A1 (en) 2004-12-23

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