EP1569499B1 - Earmould for hearing aid - Google Patents

Earmould for hearing aid Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1569499B1
EP1569499B1 EP05001144A EP05001144A EP1569499B1 EP 1569499 B1 EP1569499 B1 EP 1569499B1 EP 05001144 A EP05001144 A EP 05001144A EP 05001144 A EP05001144 A EP 05001144A EP 1569499 B1 EP1569499 B1 EP 1569499B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
ear
earpiece
capsule
cover
shaped part
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Revoked
Application number
EP05001144A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1569499A1 (en
Inventor
Gerhard Ach-Kowalewski
Harald Klemenz
Torsten Dr. Niederdränk
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Sivantos GmbH
Original Assignee
Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH
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Application filed by Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH filed Critical Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH
Publication of EP1569499A1 publication Critical patent/EP1569499A1/en
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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
    • H04R25/60—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles
    • H04R25/604—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles of acoustic or vibrational transducers
    • 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
    • H04R25/65—Housing parts, e.g. shells, tips or moulds, or their manufacture
    • H04R25/652—Ear tips; Ear moulds
    • 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
    • H04R25/02—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception adapted to be supported entirely by ear
    • 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
    • H04R25/48—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception using constructional means for obtaining a desired frequency response

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an ear piece for a hearing system, in particular a hearing aid, with a molded body which is fitable in the ear canal of an ear, a capsule, which is removably disposed in the molded body, and a listener for sonicating the ear, in the capsule is arranged.
  • earmolds are known to which a handset is externally coupled. Such an arrangement is used in handheld devices. For the usual use of BTEs, however, this construction is usually too large in design.
  • the ear insert comprises an adapted to the contour of the inner auditory canal earmold and a modular shell insertable therein.
  • the module shell is self-contained and contains any electrical and / or electromechanical components, eg. B. a handset and a microphone. After inserting the ear insert disappears largely in the inner auditory canal and is therefore virtually invisible. The sound is directed by the listener through a small tubular channel to the eardrum.
  • the publication DE 35 04 891 A1 shows an ear insert for hearing aids with a molded body, which can be arranged in the ear canal of a user and adapted to this.
  • a molded body In the molded body is filling material in which a handset is swinging.
  • a funnel-shaped hearing aid opening At the exit opening of the listener is followed by a funnel-shaped hearing aid opening.
  • a hearing aid which has a shaped body which can be fitted in the auditory canal of a user.
  • This shaped body has a funnel-like shape on its eardrum end.
  • the disclosed U.S. Patent 4,532,649 a hearing aid having a contact in a lid.
  • the contact is electrically connected to a battery when the lid is closed.
  • a hearing aid in which a receiver is arranged in a pillow in an auricle assembly. If necessary, the receiver or handset can be removed using an extraction strip.
  • the publication WO 99/07182 A2 describes an acoustic coupler removably secured to a handset assembly for deep insertion in an ear canal.
  • the acoustic coupler can be pushed over the cylindrical receiver.
  • a hearing aid in the shell of which a handset unit and a microphone unit are housed.
  • the microphone assembly is inserted in a cover unit.
  • Both the handset module and the microphone assembly have protruding spring contacts that are in contact with tracks of the shell. The two units are thus electrically connected to each other via the spring contacts and the conductor tracks of the shell.
  • a front panel made of hard plastic carries a hearing aid assembly with components such as a battery case, a volume control, an earphone, and a microphone.
  • the front panel is used to close a hearing aid shell.
  • the object of the present invention is to propose an ear insert that has the advantages of a replaceable earpiece and improved acoustic properties.
  • an ear insert for a hearing system with a shaped body which can be fitted in the ear canal of an ear, and a receiver for sonicating the ear, which is integrated in a capsule, which is removably arranged in a recess of the molding, wherein a sound outlet is formed between the receiver and the side of the shaped body which, in the state in which the ear insert is inserted into the auditory canal, faces the eardrum.
  • the capsule can be removed from the side facing the eardrum from the molding.
  • the sound outlet can be formed in the capsule.
  • the molded body is, however, less expensive to produce.
  • the sound outlet is funnel-shaped.
  • the sound exit has the form of an exponential horn, so that an optimal impedance matching is given.
  • a lid may be attached, with which the recess in the molded body is closed, in which the capsule is inserted.
  • the capsule can be relatively easily formed without an unwanted slipping out of the listener from the ear insert would be feared.
  • the lid of the molded body can be made removable, which may lead to mounting advantages.
  • An opening of the sound outlet facing the eardrum can in this case have a larger area than an opening of the sound outlet facing the listener.
  • the sound outlet can be formed in the shaped body.
  • a capsule or an adapter for the listener which / allows the easy replacement of the handset, very inexpensive to produce.
  • the molded body may further be an earmold.
  • an exact individual adaptation to an auditory canal can be achieved.
  • the contacting of the listener can be done via this cover. It is advantageous if spring contacts for contacting the handset to the handset, the capsule and / or the lid are attached. Thus, the assembly effort for inserting or replacing a handset in the ear tip is minimized.
  • the listener can also be integrally formed with the lid. Ie. the handset has a closure piece, so that the insertion of the handset and the closing of the recess can be done with a handle.
  • FIG. 1 is the ear of a hearing aid wearer including the auricle 1 and a cross section through the ear canal 2 shown.
  • an ITE shell or earmold 3 is fitted as a molded body.
  • a receiver 4 including a corresponding capsule or a corresponding adapter 5 is inserted into a recess of the earmold 3.
  • the adapter 5 may be formed as a component for a plug, screw, bayonet or jack connection.
  • the adapter 5 can also be glued into the earmold, for example, with silicone or another commercially available adhesive, whereby, however, the advantage of interchangeability is lost.
  • Connections 6 for the handset 4 are guided by the adapter 5 to the outside. They are connected to a flexible line 7 to the BTE, not shown.
  • the earpiece 4 in the earmold 3 is exposed to very extreme conditions with high temperatures (about 37 ° C.), high humidity (perspiration) and earwax (cerumen), which suggests a short service life.
  • the adapter 5 offers a significant advantage, since it is very easy to change.
  • the capsule or the adapter 5 is inserted from the outside according to the arrow A in the earmold. He can thus be removed from the earmold 3, without this is removed from the ear canal.
  • the adapter 5 is fixed in the earmold 3 with a corresponding mating element of the plug, screw, bayonet or jack connection.
  • the earmold 3 has a funnel-shaped sound exit 8, which can also be referred to as a sound channel.
  • This sound outlet 8 can also be designed horn-like and in particular have the form of an exponential horn.
  • FIG. 2 a first embodiment of the ear insert according to the invention is shown.
  • the adapter 5 is designed differently compared to the first embodiment, so that with regard to the other elements to the description of FIG. 1 is referenced.
  • the adapter 5 in the direction of arrow B, that is pushed or plugged from the eardrum side facing the earmold 3.
  • the funnel-shaped sound outlet 8 is incorporated in the capsule or the adapter 5.
  • the adapter 5 In its outer contour of the adapter 5 is slightly conical, so that it is secured against slipping out of the earmold 3 to the outside.
  • the adapter 5 can in its outer contour, however, also purely cylindrical as in FIG. 1 be designed. In this case, it is advisable to provide a corresponding stop that the adapter 5 can not accidentally slip outward.
  • the adapter 5 may also be designed spherical.
  • FIG. 3 a second embodiment of the present invention is shown.
  • This second embodiment can be used both with the example of FIG. 1 as well as combined with the first embodiment.
  • a recess 9 is formed, in which the receiver 4 is inserted.
  • the recess is closed by a cover 10.
  • the lid 10 in turn is connected to a hinge 11 on the earmold third attached and has a handle 12 to open.
  • the connection lines 6 are guided in this case through the lid 10.
  • the flexible line 7 in turn leads to BTE.
  • the receiver 4 has two contact points similar to a battery.
  • Spring contacts 14, which are fastened to the cover 10, establish the electrical contact between the contact points 13 and the lines 6 in the closed state of the cover 10.
  • the handset 4 is replaceable only a few steps.
  • an adapter or a capsule into which a handset is integrated could be inserted into the recess 9 and contacted when closing the lid 10.
  • an ear insert is thus provided with improved acoustic properties, in which the listener is easily replaceable.
  • a new earmold need not be made each time the handset is replaced, so that the use of active earmolds, in which the coupling tendencies are lower due to the higher distance between the handset and the microphone, becomes more economical.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Neurosurgery (AREA)
  • Otolaryngology (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Acoustics & Sound (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Headphones And Earphones (AREA)
  • Prostheses (AREA)
  • Telephone Set Structure (AREA)

Abstract

The device has a molded body (3) that can fit in the auditory canal (2) of an ear, an earpiece (4) for supplying sound to the ear removably arranged in the molded body and a sound outlet (8) between the earpiece and the side of the molded body that faces the eardrum when the insert is in the canal. The sound outlet is formed in a capsule (5) and is funnel-shaped or has the shape of an exponential horn. A cover is attached to the side of the molded body facing away from the eardrum for closing an opening in the molded body in which the earpiece is inserted.

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft einen Ohreinsatz für ein Hörsystem, insbesondere ein Hörgerät, mit einem Formkörper, der in den Gehörgang eines Ohrs einpassbar ist, einer Kapsel, die entnehmbar in dem Formkörper angeordnet ist, und einem Hörer zum Beschallen des Ohrs, der in der Kapsel angeordnet ist.The present invention relates to an ear piece for a hearing system, in particular a hearing aid, with a molded body which is fitable in the ear canal of an ear, a capsule, which is removably disposed in the molded body, and a listener for sonicating the ear, in the capsule is arranged.

Bei Hochtonhörgeräten mit einer weitgehend offenen Versorgung stellen zum einen die Schallabstrahlung aus dem Vent (der Öffnung) und zum anderen die Dämpfungseigenschaften des Schallschlauchs für hohe Frequenzen starke Beeinträchtigungen dar. Daher ist in diesen Fällen eine Auslagerung des Hörers von großem Vorteil. Dabei wird der Hörer in eine Otoplastik bzw. ein Ohrpassstück fest eingesetzt bzw. eingegossen. Über eine Kabelverbindung wird der Hörer mit dem Hörgerätemodul verbunden, das beispielsweise hinter dem Ohr angebracht ist. Dieser Aufbau bringt jedoch den Nachteil mit sich, dass im Servicefall bei Ausfall oder Verschmutzung des Hörers in der Otoplastik diese ausgetauscht werden muss, was mit einem beträchtlichen Aufwand und Kosten verbunden ist, da jede Otoplastik individuell geformt ist.In high-frequency hearing aids with a largely open supply, on the one hand the sound radiation from the vent (the opening) and on the other hand, the damping properties of the sound tube for high frequencies severely impaired. Therefore, in these cases outsourcing of the handset is of great advantage. The earpiece is firmly inserted or cast into an earmold or earmold piece. Via a cable connection, the handset is connected to the hearing aid module, which is attached behind the ear, for example. However, this structure has the disadvantage that in case of failure or contamination of the listener in the earmold this must be replaced, which is associated with a considerable effort and expense, since each earmold is shaped individually.

In diesem Zusammenhang sind Otoplastiken bekannt, an die ein Hörer von extern ankoppelbar ist. Eine derartige Anordnung wird bei Taschengeräten verwendet. Für den üblichen Gebrauch von HdOs ist diese Konstruktion allerdings in der Regel zu groß in der Ausführung.In this context, earmolds are known to which a handset is externally coupled. Such an arrangement is used in handheld devices. For the usual use of BTEs, however, this construction is usually too large in design.

Weiterhin ist aus der Druckschrift EP 0 288 822 ein Hinterdem-Ohr-Hörgerät (HdO) bekannt, dessen Ohreinsatz ein an die Kontur des inneren Hörkanals angepasstes Ohrpassstück und eine darin einsetzbare Modulschale umfasst. Die Modulschale ist in sich geschlossen und enthält beliebige elektrische und/oder elektromechanische Bauteile, z. B. einen Hörer und ein Mikrofon. Nach dem Einsetzen verschwindet der Ohreinsatz größtenteils im inneren Hörkanal und ist dadurch praktisch nicht sichtbar. Der Schall wird von dem Hörer über einen kleinen röhrenförmigen Kanal zum Trommelfell geleitet.Furthermore, from the document EP 0 288 822 a behind-the-ear hearing aid (BTE) known, the ear insert comprises an adapted to the contour of the inner auditory canal earmold and a modular shell insertable therein. The module shell is self-contained and contains any electrical and / or electromechanical components, eg. B. a handset and a microphone. After inserting the ear insert disappears largely in the inner auditory canal and is therefore virtually invisible. The sound is directed by the listener through a small tubular channel to the eardrum.

Die Druckschrift DE 35 04 891 A1 zeigt einen Ohreinsatz für Hörgeräte mit einem Formkörper, der im Ohrkanal eines Benutzers angeordnet und an diesen angepasst sein kann. In dem Formkörper befindet sich Füllmaterial, in welchem ein Hörer schwingend gelagert ist. An die Ausgangsöffnung des Hörers schließt sich eine trichterförmige Hörhilfeöffnung an.The publication DE 35 04 891 A1 shows an ear insert for hearing aids with a molded body, which can be arranged in the ear canal of a user and adapted to this. In the molded body is filling material in which a handset is swinging. At the exit opening of the listener is followed by a funnel-shaped hearing aid opening.

Darüber hinaus offenbart die Druckschrift DE 102 14 189 A1 ein Hörgerät mit einem Gehäuse und einem entsprechenden Cerumenschutzsystem. Ein Hörer kann aus diesem Gehäuse entnommen werden.In addition, the document discloses DE 102 14 189 A1 a hearing aid with a housing and a corresponding cerumen protection system. A handset can be removed from this housing.

Aus der Druckschrift EP 354 698 B1 ist ferner eine Hörhilfe bekannt, die einen Formkörper aufweist, der in den Gehörgang eines Benutzers einpassbar ist. Dieser Formkörper weist an seinem trommelfellseitigen Ende eine trichterähnliche Form auf.From the publication EP 354 698 B1 Furthermore, a hearing aid is known which has a shaped body which can be fitted in the auditory canal of a user. This shaped body has a funnel-like shape on its eardrum end.

Außerdem offenbart die US-Patentschrift 4 532 649 A eine Hörhilfe, die in einem Deckel einen Kontakt aufweist. Der Kontakt ist mit einer Batterie elektrisch verbunden, wenn der Deckel geschlossen ist.In addition, the disclosed U.S. Patent 4,532,649 a hearing aid having a contact in a lid. The contact is electrically connected to a battery when the lid is closed.

Schließlich ist aus der Druckschrift DE 37 88 566 T2 ein Hörgerät bekannt, bei dem ein Empfänger in einem Kissen in einer Ohrmuschel-Baugruppe angeordnet ist. Falls erforderlich kann der Empfänger bzw. Hörer unter Verwendung eines Extraktionsstreifens entfernt werden.Finally, from the publication DE 37 88 566 T2 a hearing aid is known in which a receiver is arranged in a pillow in an auricle assembly. If necessary, the receiver or handset can be removed using an extraction strip.

Aus der Patentschrift US 4,870,688 ist ein Ohrkanalhörgerät für die Massenproduktion bekannt. Es besitzt einen Formkörper, in dem eine gekapselter Hörer eingesetzt wird. Ein Deckel einschließlich der Hörgeräteelektronik verschließt den Formkörper. An dem Deckel befindet sich ein schwenkbares Batteriefach.From the patent US 4,870,688 is an ear canal hearing aid known for mass production. It has a shaped body in which an encapsulated earpiece is used. A lid including the hearing aid electronics closes the molding. On the lid is a swiveling battery compartment.

Die Druckschrift WO 99/07182 A2 beschreibt einen akustischen Koppler, der entnehmbar an eine Höreranordnung für den tiefen Einsatz in einem Ohrkanal gesichert ist. Der akustische Koppler lässt sich über den zylindrischen Hörer schieben.The publication WO 99/07182 A2 describes an acoustic coupler removably secured to a handset assembly for deep insertion in an ear canal. The acoustic coupler can be pushed over the cylindrical receiver.

In dem Artikel von Valente M. Hosford-Dunn H. , Roesner R.J.: "Audiology Treatment" 2000, Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc. , New York, Stuttgart, XP002328493 ist ein Ohrstück beschrieben, das eine umgekehrte Hornform besitzt. Diese Form reduziert die Verstärkung oberhalb von 2000 Hz und verschiebt die Energie hin zu niedrigeren Frequenzen.In the article of Valente M. Hosford-Dunn H., Roesner RJ: "Audiology Treatment" 2000, Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc. , New York, Stuttgart, XP002328493 an ear piece is described, which has a reversed horn shape. This shape reduces the gain above 2000 Hz and shifts the energy down to lower frequencies.

Ferner ist aus der Druckschrift EP 1 317 163 A2 ein Hörgerät bekannt, in dessen Schale eine Hörerbaueinheit und eine Mikrofonbaueinheit untergebracht sind. Die Mikrofonbaueinheit ist in eine Deckeleinheit eingesetzt. Sowohl die Hörerbaueinheit als auch die Mikrofonbaueinheit weisen abstehende Federkontakte auf, die mit Leiterbahnen der Schale in Berührung stehen. Die beiden Baueinheiten sind somit über die Federkontakte und die Leiterbahnen der Schale elektrisch miteinander verbunden.Furthermore, from the document EP 1 317 163 A2 a hearing aid is known, in the shell of which a handset unit and a microphone unit are housed. The microphone assembly is inserted in a cover unit. Both the handset module and the microphone assembly have protruding spring contacts that are in contact with tracks of the shell. The two units are thus electrically connected to each other via the spring contacts and the conductor tracks of the shell.

Ein weiteres Hörgerät ist in der Druckschrift DE 35 05 099 A1 beschrieben. Eine aus einem harten Kunststoff hergestellte Frontplatte trägt eine Hörhilfe-Baugruppe mit Bauelementen wie einem Batteriegehäuse, einem Lautstärkeregler, einem Ohrhörer und einem Mikrofon. Die Frontplatte dient zum Verschließen einer Hörgeräteschale.Another hearing aid is in the document DE 35 05 099 A1 described. A front panel made of hard plastic carries a hearing aid assembly with components such as a battery case, a volume control, an earphone, and a microphone. The front panel is used to close a hearing aid shell.

Schließlich ist in der Druckschrift GB 2 155 276 A ein Hörgeräteohrstück beschrieben, das einen trichterförmigen Schallauslass besitzt.Finally, in the document GB 2 155 276 A a Hörgeräteohrstück described having a funnel-shaped sound outlet.

Die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung besteht darin, einen Ohreinsatz vorzuschlagen, der die Vorteile eines austauschbaren Hörers besitzt und verbesserte akustische Eigenschaften aufweist.The object of the present invention is to propose an ear insert that has the advantages of a replaceable earpiece and improved acoustic properties.

Erfindungsgemäß wird diese Aufgabe gelöst durch einen Ohreinsatz für ein Hörsystem mit einem Formkörper, der in den Gehörgang eines Ohrs einpassbar ist, und einem Hörer zum Beschallen des Ohrs, der in eine Kapsel integriert ist, welche entnehmbar in einer Ausnehmung des Formkörpers angeordnet ist, wobei ein Schallaustritt zwischen dem Hörer und der Seite des Formkörpers ausgebildet ist, die in dem Zustand, in welchem der Ohreinsatz in den Gehörgang eingesetzt ist, dem Trommelfell zugewandt ist. Die Kapsel ist von der dem Trommelfell zugewandten Seite aus dem Formkörper entnehmbar. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass - einen entsprechenden Anschlag vorausgesetzt - die Kapsel mit dem Hörer nicht aus dem Ohreinsatz rutschen kann.According to the invention, this object is achieved by an ear insert for a hearing system with a shaped body which can be fitted in the ear canal of an ear, and a receiver for sonicating the ear, which is integrated in a capsule, which is removably arranged in a recess of the molding, wherein a sound outlet is formed between the receiver and the side of the shaped body which, in the state in which the ear insert is inserted into the auditory canal, faces the eardrum. The capsule can be removed from the side facing the eardrum from the molding. This has the advantage that - assuming a corresponding stop - the capsule with the handset can not slip out of the ear insert.

Der Schallaustritt kann in der Kapsel ausgebildet sein. Dadurch ist zwar die Kapsel für den Hörer etwas teurer in seinen Herstellungskosten, der Formkörper ist hingegen kostengünstiger herzustellen. Vorzugsweise ist der Schallaustritt trichterförmig ausgebildet. Idealerweise besitzt der Schallaustritt die Form eines Exponentialhorn, so dass eine optimale Impedanzanpassung gegeben ist. An der dem Trommelfell abgewandten Seite des Formkörpers kann ein Deckel angebracht sein, mit dem die Ausnehmung in dem Formkörper verschließbar ist, in welche die Kapsel eingesetzt ist. Damit kann die Kapsel verhältnismäßig einfach geformt sein, ohne dass ein ungewolltes Herausrutschen des Hörers aus dem Ohreinsatz zu befürchten wäre. Optional kann der Deckel von dem Formkörper abnehmbar gestaltet sein, was unter Umständen zu Montagevorteilen führt.The sound outlet can be formed in the capsule. As a result, although the capsule for the listener is slightly more expensive in its production costs, the molded body is, however, less expensive to produce. Preferably, the sound outlet is funnel-shaped. Ideally, the sound exit has the form of an exponential horn, so that an optimal impedance matching is given. On the side facing away from the eardrum of the molded body, a lid may be attached, with which the recess in the molded body is closed, in which the capsule is inserted. Thus, the capsule can be relatively easily formed without an unwanted slipping out of the listener from the ear insert would be feared. Optionally, the lid of the molded body can be made removable, which may lead to mounting advantages.

Eine dem Trommelfell zugewandte Öffnung des Schallaustritts kann hierbei eine größere Fläche aufweisen als eine dem Hörer zugewandte Öffnung des Schallaustritts.An opening of the sound outlet facing the eardrum can in this case have a larger area than an opening of the sound outlet facing the listener.

Insbesondere für Hochtonhörgeräte ist somit eine verbesserte akustische Impedanzanpassung gegeben.In particular, for Hochtonhörgeräte thus improved acoustic impedance matching is given.

Der Schallaustritt kann in dem Formkörper ausgebildet sein. In diesem Fall ist eine Kapsel bzw. ein Adapter für den Hörer, die/der den leichten Austausch des Hörers gestattet, sehr kostengünstig herzustellen.The sound outlet can be formed in the shaped body. In this case, a capsule or an adapter for the listener, which / allows the easy replacement of the handset, very inexpensive to produce.

Der Formkörper kann ferner ein Ohrpassstück sein. Damit kann eine exakte individuelle Anpassung an einen Gehörgang erzielt werden.The molded body may further be an earmold. Thus, an exact individual adaptation to an auditory canal can be achieved.

Die Kontaktierung des Hörers kann über diesen Deckel erfolgen. Hierbei ist es günstig, wenn Federkontakte zum Kontaktieren des Hörers an dem Hörer, der Kapsel und/oder dem Deckel angebracht sind. Somit ist der Montageaufwand zum Einsetzen oder Austauschen eines Hörers in den Ohreinsatz minimiert.The contacting of the listener can be done via this cover. It is advantageous if spring contacts for contacting the handset to the handset, the capsule and / or the lid are attached. Thus, the assembly effort for inserting or replacing a handset in the ear tip is minimized.

Der Hörer kann mit dem Deckel auch einteilig ausgebildet sein. D. h. der Hörer besitzt ein Verschlussstück, so dass das Einsetzen des Hörers und das Verschließen der Ausnehmung mit einem Handgriff erfolgen kann.The listener can also be integrally formed with the lid. Ie. the handset has a closure piece, so that the insertion of the handset and the closing of the recess can be done with a handle.

Die vorliegende Erfindung wird nun anhand der beigefügten Zeichnungen näher erläutert, in denen zeigen:

FIG 1
einen Querschnitt durch einen erfindungsgemäßen Ohreinsatz;
FIG 2
einen Querschnitt durch einen Ohreinsatz gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung; und
FIG 3
einen Querschnitt durch einen Teil eines Ohreinsatzes gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung.
Die nachfolgend näher geschilderten Ausführungsbeispiele stellen bevorzugte Ausführungsformen der vorliegenden Erfindung dar. Zunächst wird jedoch anhand von FIG 1 ein nicht beanspruchter Ohreinsatz zum besseren Verständnis der vorliegenden Erfindung erläutert.The present invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1
a cross section through an ear insert according to the invention;
FIG. 2
a cross-section through an ear insert according to a first embodiment of the present invention; and
FIG. 3
a cross-section through a portion of an ear insert according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
The embodiments described in more detail below represent preferred embodiments of the present invention. First, however, based on FIG. 1 a non-claimed ear tip for a better understanding of the present invention explained.

In FIG 1 ist das Ohr eines Hörgeräteträgers einschließlich der Ohrmuschel 1 und einem Querschnitt durch den Gehörgang 2 dargestellt. In den Gehörgang 2 ist eine IdO-Schale bzw. Otoplastik 3 als Formkörper eingepasst. Ein Hörer 4 einschließlich einer entsprechenden Kapsel bzw. eines entsprechenden Adapters 5 ist in eine Ausnehmung der Otoplastik 3 eingesetzt. Der Adapter 5 kann als Komponente für eine Steck-, Schraub-, Bajonett- oder Klinken-Verbindung ausgebildet sein. Der Adapter 5 kann aber auch in die Otoplastik beispielsweise mit Silikon oder einem anderen handelsüblichen Kleber eingeklebt sein, wodurch jedoch der Vorteil der Auswechselbarkeit verloren geht.In FIG. 1 is the ear of a hearing aid wearer including the auricle 1 and a cross section through the ear canal 2 shown. In the auditory canal 2, an ITE shell or earmold 3 is fitted as a molded body. A receiver 4 including a corresponding capsule or a corresponding adapter 5 is inserted into a recess of the earmold 3. The adapter 5 may be formed as a component for a plug, screw, bayonet or jack connection. However, the adapter 5 can also be glued into the earmold, for example, with silicone or another commercially available adhesive, whereby, however, the advantage of interchangeability is lost.

Anschlüsse 6 für den Hörer 4 sind durch den Adapter 5 nach außen geführt. Sie sind mit einer flexiblen Leitung 7 zum nicht dargestellten HdO verbunden.Connections 6 for the handset 4 are guided by the adapter 5 to the outside. They are connected to a flexible line 7 to the BTE, not shown.

Der Hörer 4 in der Otoplastik 3 ist sehr extremen Verhältnissen mit hohen Temperaturen (ca. 37 °C), hoher Feuchtigkeit (Schweiß) und Ohrenschmalz (Cerumen) ausgesetzt, was eine kurze Lebensdauer erwarten lässt. Um nicht bei jedem Austausch des Hörers eine neue, kostspielige Otoplastik oder IdO-Schale anfertigen zu müssen, bietet der Adapter 5 einen erheblichen Vorteil, da er sehr einfach zu wechseln ist.The earpiece 4 in the earmold 3 is exposed to very extreme conditions with high temperatures (about 37 ° C.), high humidity (perspiration) and earwax (cerumen), which suggests a short service life. In order not to have to make a new, expensive Otoplastik or IdO shell with every replacement of the listener, the adapter 5 offers a significant advantage, since it is very easy to change.

Die Kapsel bzw. der Adapter 5 wird von außen gemäß dem Pfeil A in die Otoplastik eingeschoben. Damit kann er aus der Otoplastik 3 entnommen werden, ohne dass diese aus dem Gehörgang entfernt wird. Fixiert ist der Adapter 5 in der Otoplastik 3 mit einem entsprechenden Gegenelement der Steck-, Schraub-, Bajonett- oder Klinken-Verbindung.The capsule or the adapter 5 is inserted from the outside according to the arrow A in the earmold. He can thus be removed from the earmold 3, without this is removed from the ear canal. The adapter 5 is fixed in the earmold 3 with a corresponding mating element of the plug, screw, bayonet or jack connection.

An der dem Trommelfell zugewandten Seite besitzt die Otoplastik 3 einen trichterförmig angedeuteten Schallaustritt 8, der auch als Schallkanal bezeichnet werden kann. Dieser Schallaustritt 8 kann auch hornähnlich ausgebildet sein und insbesondere die Form eines Exponentialhorns besitzen. Der Akustiker kann die Form des Schallaustritts 8 nach den akustischen Gegebenheiten, z. B. Restvolumen im Gehörgang, Frequenzspektrum der Hörerversorgung, Impedanzanpassung etc, beliebig formen.At the side facing the eardrum, the earmold 3 has a funnel-shaped sound exit 8, which can also be referred to as a sound channel. This sound outlet 8 can also be designed horn-like and in particular have the form of an exponential horn. The acoustician, the shape of the sound outlet 8 according to the acoustic conditions, eg. B. residual volume in the ear canal, frequency spectrum of the listener care, impedance matching etc, arbitrarily shape.

In FIG 2 ist eine erste Ausführungsform des erfindungsgemäßen Ohreinsatzes dargestellt. Bei dieser Ausführungsform ist gegenüber der ersten Ausführungsform lediglich der Adapter 5 anders gestaltet, so dass hinsichtlich der übrigen Elemente auf die Beschreibung von FIG 1 verwiesen wird.In FIG. 2 a first embodiment of the ear insert according to the invention is shown. In this embodiment, only the adapter 5 is designed differently compared to the first embodiment, so that with regard to the other elements to the description of FIG. 1 is referenced.

Bei der ersten Ausführungsform gemäß FIG 2 wird der Adapter 5 in Richtung des Pfeils B, d. h. von der dem Trommelfell zugewandten Seite in die Otoplastik 3 geschoben bzw. gesteckt. Dabei ist der trichterförmige Schallaustritt 8 in die Kapsel bzw. den Adapter 5 eingearbeitet. In seiner Außenkontur ist der Adapter 5 leicht konisch ausgebildet, so dass er gegen ein Durchrutschen aus der Otoplastik 3 nach außen gesichert ist. Der Adapter 5 kann in seiner Außenkontur jedoch auch rein zylinderförmig wie in FIG 1 gestaltet sein. In diesem Fall ist es ratsam, einen entsprechenden Anschlag vorzusehen, dass der Adapter 5 nicht ungewollt nach außen rutschen kann. Alternativ kann der Adapter 5 auch kugelförmig ausgestaltet sein.In the first embodiment according to FIG. 2 is the adapter 5 in the direction of arrow B, that is pushed or plugged from the eardrum side facing the earmold 3. In this case, the funnel-shaped sound outlet 8 is incorporated in the capsule or the adapter 5. In its outer contour of the adapter 5 is slightly conical, so that it is secured against slipping out of the earmold 3 to the outside. The adapter 5 can in its outer contour, however, also purely cylindrical as in FIG. 1 be designed. In this case, it is advisable to provide a corresponding stop that the adapter 5 can not accidentally slip outward. Alternatively, the adapter 5 may also be designed spherical.

In FIG 3 ist eine zweite Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung dargestellt. Diese zweite Ausführungsform kann sowohl mit dem Beispiel von FIG 1 als auch mit der ersten Ausführungsform kombiniert sein. In der Otoplastik 3 ist eine Ausnehmung 9 ausgebildet, in die der Hörer 4 eingesetzt ist. Die Ausnehmung ist mit einem Deckel 10 verschlossen. Der Deckel 10 seinerseits ist mit einem Scharnier 11 an der Otoplastik 3 befestigt und besitzt einen Griff 12 zum Öffnen. Die Anschlussleitungen 6 sind in diesem Fall durch den Deckel 10 geführt. Die flexible Leitung 7 führt wiederum zum HdO. Der Hörer 4 besitzt ähnlich einer Batterie zwei Kontaktstellen 13. Federkontakte 14, die an dem Deckel 10 befestigt sind, stellen den elektrischen Kontakt zwischen den Kontaktstellen 13 und den Leitungen 6 im geschlossenen Zustand des Deckels 10 her. Damit ist der Hörer 4 nur mit wenigen Handgriffen austauschbar.In FIG. 3 a second embodiment of the present invention is shown. This second embodiment can be used both with the example of FIG. 1 as well as combined with the first embodiment. In the earmold 3, a recess 9 is formed, in which the receiver 4 is inserted. The recess is closed by a cover 10. The lid 10 in turn is connected to a hinge 11 on the earmold third attached and has a handle 12 to open. The connection lines 6 are guided in this case through the lid 10. The flexible line 7 in turn leads to BTE. The receiver 4 has two contact points similar to a battery. Spring contacts 14, which are fastened to the cover 10, establish the electrical contact between the contact points 13 and the lines 6 in the closed state of the cover 10. Thus, the handset 4 is replaceable only a few steps.

Anstelle des Hörers 4 könnte auch ein Adapter bzw. eine Kapsel in den/die ein Hörer integriert ist, in die Ausnehmung 9 eingeschoben und beim Verschließen des Deckels 10 kontaktiert werden.Instead of the handset 4, an adapter or a capsule into which a handset is integrated, could be inserted into the recess 9 and contacted when closing the lid 10.

Entsprechend der soeben beschriebenen Ausgestaltung der vorliegenden Erfindung wird somit ein Ohreinsatz mit verbesserten akustischen Eigenschaften bereitgestellt, bei dem der Hörer leicht auswechselbar ist. Damit muss nicht bei jedem Austausch des Hörers eine neue Otoplastik angefertigt werden, so dass der Einsatz aktiver Otoplastiken, bei denen die Kopplungsneigungen aufgrund des höheren Abstands zwischen Hörer und Mikrofon geringer sind, wirtschaftlich günstiger wird.According to the just described embodiment of the present invention, an ear insert is thus provided with improved acoustic properties, in which the listener is easily replaceable. As a result, a new earmold need not be made each time the handset is replaced, so that the use of active earmolds, in which the coupling tendencies are lower due to the higher distance between the handset and the microphone, becomes more economical.

Claims (7)

  1. Ear insert for a hearing aid system with
    - a shaped part (3), which can be fitted into the auditory canal (2) of an ear,
    - an earpiece (4) to provide sound to the ear, which is integrated into a capsule arranged to allow removal in a cutout (9) of the shaped part (3), and
    - a sound outlet (8) which is embodied between the earpiece (4) and the side of the shaped part (3) which, in the state in which the ear insert is placed in the auditory canal (2), is facing towards the ear drum.
    characterized in that
    - the capsule (5) is able to be removed from the shaped part (3) from the side facing towards the ear drum.
  2. Ear insert in accordance with claim 1, with the sound outlet (8) having the shape of a funnel or an exponential horn.
  3. Ear insert in accordance with claim 1 or 2, with the sound outlet being embodied in the capsule (5).
  4. Ear insert in accordance with one of the previous claims,
    - with a cover (10) being fitted on the side of the shaped part (3) facing away from the eardrum and with the cutout (9) in the shaped part (3) able to be closed off by said cover (10), and with
    - contact with the earpiece (4) being made via the cover (10) when the cover is closed.
  5. Ear insert in accordance with one of the previous claims, with the shaped part (3) being an earmold.
  6. Ear insert in accordance with one of the previous claims, where spring contacts (14) for establishing contact with the earpiece (4) being attached to the earpiece (4), the capsule and/or the cover (10).
  7. Ear insert in accordance with one of the previous claims, with the cover being part of the earpiece.
EP05001144A 2004-02-26 2005-01-20 Earmould for hearing aid Revoked EP1569499B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102004009268 2004-02-26
DE102004009268A DE102004009268B3 (en) 2004-02-26 2004-02-26 Ear insert for a hearing system

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1569499A1 EP1569499A1 (en) 2005-08-31
EP1569499B1 true EP1569499B1 (en) 2009-07-29

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EP05001144A Revoked EP1569499B1 (en) 2004-02-26 2005-01-20 Earmould for hearing aid

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US (1) US7372972B2 (en)
EP (1) EP1569499B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE438266T1 (en)
DE (2) DE102004009268B3 (en)
DK (1) DK1569499T3 (en)

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US8374367B2 (en) * 2006-06-23 2013-02-12 Gn Resound A/S Hearing aid with a flexible elongated member
JP5340532B2 (en) * 2006-10-30 2013-11-13 株式会社須山歯研 Ear mold manufacturing method and ear mold
US7940946B2 (en) * 2006-11-27 2011-05-10 Anova Hearing Labs, Inc. Open fit canal hearing device
US10257628B2 (en) 2006-11-27 2019-04-09 Anova Hearing Labs, Inc. Open fit canal hearing device
US8477978B2 (en) 2006-11-27 2013-07-02 Anova Hearing Labs, Inc. Open fit canal hearing device
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1569499A1 (en) 2005-08-31
DE102004009268B3 (en) 2005-10-20
ATE438266T1 (en) 2009-08-15
DK1569499T3 (en) 2009-11-02
US20050190940A1 (en) 2005-09-01
US7372972B2 (en) 2008-05-13
DE502005007764D1 (en) 2009-09-10

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