EP2148530A1 - Hearing aid with UV sensor and operating method - Google Patents

Hearing aid with UV sensor and operating method Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2148530A1
EP2148530A1 EP09164849A EP09164849A EP2148530A1 EP 2148530 A1 EP2148530 A1 EP 2148530A1 EP 09164849 A EP09164849 A EP 09164849A EP 09164849 A EP09164849 A EP 09164849A EP 2148530 A1 EP2148530 A1 EP 2148530A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
hearing aid
signal processing
hearing
sensor
processing parameter
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EP09164849A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2148530B1 (en
Inventor
Annie Poh Tze Chye
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Sivantos Pte Ltd
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Siemens Medical Instruments Pte Ltd
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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
    • H04R25/50—Customised settings for obtaining desired overall acoustical characteristics
    • H04R25/505—Customised settings for obtaining desired overall acoustical characteristics using digital signal processing
    • 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

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a hearing aid and a method for operating a hearing aid.
  • Hearing aids must be able to cope with a large number of different hearing situations. For this purpose, it is necessary to adapt the transfer function of the hearing device to the respective hearing situation.
  • So-called behind-the-ear hearing aids (BTE) have switches or push-buttons for switching to various hearing programs.
  • so-called in-the-ear hearing aids (IdO) and in particular CIC devices due to their small size, are either very miniaturized and therefore uncomfortable to operate switches or buttons. Or they have no switches or buttons and are rather dependent on automatically recognizing the respective hearing situation.
  • Modern hearing aids are equipped with signal processing algorithms for automatically detecting hearing situations and increasing wearing comfort. These make it possible to carry out a diverse analysis of the acoustic environment situation of the hearing aid wearer. Using the results of this analysis, noise removal algorithms, directivity algorithms, beamforming, automatic program switching and other signal processing components in the hearing aid can be adapted to the environment situation.
  • the sound sensor is designed as an optical sensor and arranged at a distance from the surface of an excitable to acoustic vibrations portion of the sound transmission in the ear. The acousto-electrical conversion thus takes place via an optical sensor.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a hearing aid and an operating method for such a hearing aid, through which the quality of the hearing aid therapy is increased, the ease of use of the hearing aid is improved, and allow a reduction in the size of the hearing aid.
  • the invention solves this problem by a hearing aid and an operating method with the features of the independent claims.
  • a basic idea of the invention consists in a hearing aid, which comprises a signal processing device that can operate with different signal processing parameters, wherein a UV sensor is provided, which is connected to the signal processing device, and wherein the signal processing device in response to an output signal of the UV sensor at least can set a signal processing parameter.
  • the setting of a signal processing parameter is carried out by the signal processing device and thussätig from the point of view of the hearing aid wearer. Due to the self-adjusting setting, the hearing aid reacts promptly to different light conditions or their changes. Therefore, a suitable adjustment of signal processing parameters is made promptly and not by delayed perception or Response delayed by the hearing aid wearer. The timely reaction of the hearing aid thus leads to rapid adaptation of the hearing aid therapy and thus increases their quality.
  • the self-adjustment of the hearing aid may also include a manual adjustment element, e.g. make a program selector switch unnecessary;
  • a manual adjustment element e.g. make a program selector switch unnecessary;
  • the comparatively small UV sensor occur and thus a reduction of the housing size of the hearing aid can be achieved.
  • operating mode is meant a way of working of the hearing aid, e.g. Taking into account different device environments or device conditions, for example, when connecting a so-called audio shoe, when inserting the hearing aid in a charging cradle, when connecting a power supply, connection of a programmer, establishing wireless or wired connections to other hearing aids, in exhausted battery power supply, or when connecting different microphones or receivers (speakers).
  • operating program should be understood to mean a signal processing program or a subprogram of a signal processing program for auditory signal processing, eg taking into account environmental conditions or situation, needs of the hearing aid wearer, auditory signal input sources, or hearing aid therapy recommendations.
  • Operating programs are usually referred to as hearing programs and usually hearing aids have a choice between a plurality of preset by programming the hearing aid listening programs.
  • Program parameters shall be understood to mean a parameter setting of a mode or an operating profile, e.g. a volume threshold, an acoustic compression level, an acoustic frequency value or frequency response, a processor clock frequency, a charging circuit for rechargeable hearing aid batteries, the activability of different operating programs, a frequency threshold or intensity threshold for the sensitivity of the UV light sensor , or the opening of a programming channel.
  • the additionally available signal of the UV sensor can be taken into account particularly advantageously for the operation of the hearing aid.
  • the plurality of adjustable signal processing parameters advantageously increases the variety of consideration options.
  • the hearing aid comprises a hearing tube for conducting electrical or acoustic hearing signals to the ear of a hearing aid wearer, and the UV sensor is arranged in or on the hearing tube.
  • Hearing aids with a hearing tube are in particular behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids or BTE hearing aids with Receiverim channel (BTE - RiK), whereby the receiver of the hearing aid loudspeaker is understood and this is positioned in the auditory canal of the hearing aid wearer.
  • BTE behind-the-ear
  • BTE - RiK BTE hearing aids with Receiverim channel
  • the arrangement of the UV sensor on the hearing tube results in particular in BTE and BTE hearing aids the advantage that the UV sensor is not covered by the auricle of the hearing aid wearer.
  • the hearing tube is usually guided by the hearing aid arranged behind the auricular over the auricle to the auditory canal of the hearing aid wearer.
  • the hearing tube runs partially above the auricle, partially frontally in front of the auricle.
  • At least one predetermined signal processing parameter for inside and outside closed rooms is adjustable.
  • the predetermined signal processing parameters may be pre-programmed, for example, when programming the hearing aid. They can be used as start parameter values for a self-adaptation algorithm of the signal processing, so that the parameter value determined last by self-adaptation is used the next time the respective parameter is set. They can also be programmed as permanently preprogrammed parameter values, e.g. when adjusting the hearing aid with the hearing aid acoustician, which are used unchanged each time you set the respective parameter. In addition, the respective parameters may be fixed by the hearing aid hardware. Other variants are conceivable.
  • the UV sensor allows advantageously and particularly simple manner a very selective detection of the respective Environmental situation.
  • visible light As a detection criterion might seem to be close, it should be remembered that visible light is artificially generated even within closed spaces in quite considerable intensity; therefore, the use of a light sensor operating in the frequency range of visible light is not appropriate.
  • UV light is normally not or hardly artificially generated within closed spaces. Therefore, the UV component in the ambient light is a reliable criterion for distinguishing the two environmental situations and the UV sensor is a suitable and at the same time highly selective sensor.
  • FIG. 1 is a hearing aid 1 in BTE version shown schematically.
  • the hearing aid 1 has a housing 2 and comprises a hearing tube 10.
  • the hearing tube 10 serves to guide auditory signals, that is to say acoustic output signals of the hearing aid 1, to an ear of the hearing aid wearer.
  • a comparable construction has a BTE hearing aid on which, however, the hearing tube does not serve to convey acoustic signals to the ear of the hearing aid wearer. Instead, in RiK hearing aids, electrical signals are conducted through the hearing tube to a receiver positioned in the auditory canal of the hearing aid wearer, ie loudspeakers.
  • a so-called dome 11 is arranged at the end of the hearing tube 10.
  • the Dom 11 is a semicircular structure made of soft, elastic material, eg silicone. It serves to position the hearing tube 10 in the auditory canal of the hearing aid wearer and to secure it against accidental slipping out.
  • a microphone 3 is arranged for receiving acoustic signals. It is connected via a line to a signal processing device 5, which serves to process the acoustic input signals. It is thus connected via a further line with a receiver 4, by which the signals obtained from the transfer function are converted into acoustic signals, which are then forwarded through the hearing tube 10.
  • the signal processing device 5 draws its supply voltage from a battery 6. All disposed within the housing 2 device elements are indicated by dashed lines in the figure.
  • the signal processing device 5 is designed to operate in different operating modes, different operating programs or with different program parameters. These different operating options differ by the respectively set parameter values and each represent a different method for operating the hearing aid 1.
  • a UV sensor 20 is connected to the signal processing device 5.
  • the hearing tube 10 is designed for visual reasons usually transparent, therefore, the running in the hearing tube 10 part of the line 21 is not dashed but shown in solid.
  • the hearing tube 10 is UV-permeable.
  • a window in the hearing tube 10 may be provided to pass UV light to the UV sensor 20.
  • Output signals of the UV sensor 20 are supplied via the line 21 of the signal processing device 5. This is able to depend on their mode of operation from the output signal of the UV sensor 20, for example with regard to the operating mode, the operating program or a program parameter.
  • the signal processing device 5 can activate an operating program which is suitable for environments outside of closed rooms. This operating program choice is based on the fact that an increased UV sensitivity occurs especially outside of closed rooms. Conversely, when a UV intensity threshold is undershot, an operating program suitable for closed rooms can be activated.
  • the threshold values of the UV light intensity can be changed in the signal processing device 5 or on the UV sensor 20 in order to detect fundamentally different environmental conditions, e.g. at different altitudes or climates.
  • the frequency working range of the UV sensor 20 is chosen in the usual way, e.g. in the frequency range UV-A or UV-B.
  • a hearing aid 30 is shown in in-the-ear (IdO) implementation.
  • the housing 31 of the hearing aid 30, which is adapted to the shape of the ear canal of the respective hearing aid wearer, indicated by dashed lines, there are a microphone 3, a receiver 4, a signal processing device 5, a battery 6, all of which are designed as described above.
  • a UV sensor 20 located in the remote from the ear canal side of the housing 31, a UV sensor 20, which is also carried out as described above. It is located in a housing section which is either UV transparent or which has a window for UV light. Incidentally, the operation in response to output signals of the UV sensor 20 corresponds to that described in the preceding figure.
  • the invention can be summarized as follows:
  • the invention relates to a hearing aid and a method for operating a hearing aid.
  • the hearing aid 1, 30 the one signal processing device 5, which can operate with different signal processing parameters, wherein a UV sensor 20 is provided, which is connected to the signal processing device 5, and wherein the signal processing device 5 in response to an output signal of the UV sensor 20 can set at least one signal processing parameter.
  • at least one predetermined signal processing parameter for inside and outside closed rooms is adjustable. Based on the ultraviolet light intensity to be measured by the UV sensor in the environment, a distinction can be made reliably between environmental situations inside and outside closed rooms, so that the mode of operation of the hearing aid, eg of the hearing program, is advantageously automatically adapted to these two environmental situations.

Abstract

The hearing aid (1) has a signal processing unit (5) that works with different signal processing parameters. An ultraviolet sensor (20) is provided, which is connected with the signal processing unit. The signal processing unit adjusts a signal processing parameter depending upon an output signal of the ultraviolet sensor. An independent claim is included for a method for operating a hearing aid.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Hörhilfe und ein Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Hörhilfe.The invention relates to a hearing aid and a method for operating a hearing aid.

Hörhilfen müssen eine Vielzahl unterschiedlichster Hörsituationen bewältigen können. Dazu ist es notwendig, die Übertragungsfunktion des Hörgeräts an die jeweilige Hörsituation anzupassen. Sogenannte Hinter-dem-Ohr-Hörgeräte (HdO) besitzen hierfür Schalter oder Taster, mit denen in verschiedene Hörprogramme geschaltet werden kann. Demgegenüber besitzen sogenannte In-dem-Ohr-Hörgeräte (IdO) und insbesondere CIC-Geräte (complete in the channel) aufgrund ihrer geringen Baugröße entweder stark miniaturisiete und deshalb unkomfortable zu bediendende Schalter bzw. Taster. Oder sie besitzen gar keine Schalter bzw. Taster und sind vielmehr darauf angewiesen, automatisch die jeweilige Hörsituation zu erkennen.Hearing aids must be able to cope with a large number of different hearing situations. For this purpose, it is necessary to adapt the transfer function of the hearing device to the respective hearing situation. So-called behind-the-ear hearing aids (BTE) have switches or push-buttons for switching to various hearing programs. In contrast, so-called in-the-ear hearing aids (IdO) and in particular CIC devices (complete in the channel), due to their small size, are either very miniaturized and therefore uncomfortable to operate switches or buttons. Or they have no switches or buttons and are rather dependent on automatically recognizing the respective hearing situation.

Zum automatischen Erkennen von Hörsituationen und zur Erhöhung des Tragekomforts werden moderne Hörhilfen mit Signalverarbeitungsalgorithmen ausgestattet. Diese erlauben es, eine vielfältige Analyse akustischen Umgebungssituation des Hörhilfeträgers vorzunehmen. Mittels der Ergebnisse dieser Analyse können Störgeräuschbefreiungsalgorithmen, Richtwirkungsalgorithmen, Beamforming, automatische Programmumschaltung und andere Signalverarbeitungskomponenten in der Hörhilfe der Umgebungssituation angepasst werden.Modern hearing aids are equipped with signal processing algorithms for automatically detecting hearing situations and increasing wearing comfort. These make it possible to carry out a diverse analysis of the acoustic environment situation of the hearing aid wearer. Using the results of this analysis, noise removal algorithms, directivity algorithms, beamforming, automatic program switching and other signal processing components in the hearing aid can be adapted to the environment situation.

In diesem Zusammenhang ist aus der Druckschrift WO 00/25550 ein implantierbarer Schallrezeptor für Hörhilfen bekannt. Dabei ist der Schallsensor als optischer Sensor ausgebildet und in einem Abstand von der Oberfläche eines zu akustischen Schwingungen anregbaren Teils der Schallübertragung im Ohr angeordnet. Die akusto-elektrische Wandlung erfolgt somit über einen optischen Sensor.In this context, from the document WO 00/25550 an implantable sound receptor for hearing aids known. In this case, the sound sensor is designed as an optical sensor and arranged at a distance from the surface of an excitable to acoustic vibrations portion of the sound transmission in the ear. The acousto-electrical conversion thus takes place via an optical sensor.

Aus der Druckschrift DE 101 47 812 A1 ist eine Hörhilfe bekannt, bei der die Anpassung an Umgebungssituationen verbessert wird, indem die Umgebungssituation nicht nur anhand von akustischen Signalen, sondern auch anhand von optischen Signalen analysiert wird. Als optisches Signal kann einfache Hell-/Dunkel-Erkennung durch eine Fotozelle eingesetzt werden. Es können jedoch auch einfache oder mehrfache Helligkeitssensoren vorgesehen werden, die eine Helligkeitsmodulation zu detektieren gestatten. Auch ein Sensor mit Kamera-Funktion, z.B. ein grob auflösendes CCD-Array, kann Verwendung finden.From the publication DE 101 47 812 A1 is a hearing aid known in which the adaptation to environmental situations is improved by the environmental situation is analyzed not only on the basis of acoustic signals, but also on the basis of optical signals. As an optical signal simple light / dark detection can be used by a photocell. However, it is also possible to provide single or multiple brightness sensors which allow a brightness modulation to be detected. A sensor with a camera function, eg a coarse-resolution CCD array, can also be used.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Hörhilfe sowie ein Betriebsverfahren für eine solche Hörhilfe anzugeben, durch die die Qualität der Hörhilfe-Therapie erhöht wird, die Bedienfreundlichkeit der Hörhilfe verbessert wird, und die eine Verringerung der Gehäusegröße der Hörhilfe gestatten.The invention has for its object to provide a hearing aid and an operating method for such a hearing aid, through which the quality of the hearing aid therapy is increased, the ease of use of the hearing aid is improved, and allow a reduction in the size of the hearing aid.

Die Erfindung löst diese Aufgabe durch eine Hörhilfe sowie ein Betriebsverfahren mit den Merkmalen der unabhängigen Patentansprüche.The invention solves this problem by a hearing aid and an operating method with the features of the independent claims.

Ein Grundgedanke der Erfindung besteht in einer Hörhilfe, die eine Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung umfasst, die mit unterschiedlichen Signalverarbeitungsparametern arbeiten kann, wobei ein UV-Sensor vorgesehen ist, der mit der Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung verbunden ist, und wobei die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung in Abhängigkeit von einem Ausgangssignal des UV-Sensors mindestens einen Signalverarbeitungsparameter einstellen kann.A basic idea of the invention consists in a hearing aid, which comprises a signal processing device that can operate with different signal processing parameters, wherein a UV sensor is provided, which is connected to the signal processing device, and wherein the signal processing device in response to an output signal of the UV sensor at least can set a signal processing parameter.

Die Einstellung eines Signalverarbeitungsparameters erfolgt durch die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung und damit aus Sicht des Hörhilfeträgers selbstätig. Durch die selbstätige Einstellung reagiert die Hörhilfe zeitnah auf unterschiedliche Lichtverhältnisse oder deren Änderungen. Daher wird auch eine geeignete Einstellung von Signalverarbeitungsparameter zeitnah vorgenommen und nicht durch verzögerte Wahrnehmung oder Reaktion durch den Hörhilfeträger verzögert. Die zeitnahe Reaktion der Hörhilfe führt somit zu schnellen Anpassung der Hörhilfe-Therapie und erhöht damit deren Qualität.The setting of a signal processing parameter is carried out by the signal processing device and thus selbstätig from the point of view of the hearing aid wearer. Due to the self-adjusting setting, the hearing aid reacts promptly to different light conditions or their changes. Therefore, a suitable adjustment of signal processing parameters is made promptly and not by delayed perception or Response delayed by the hearing aid wearer. The timely reaction of the hearing aid thus leads to rapid adaptation of the hearing aid therapy and thus increases their quality.

Darüber hinaus erübrigt es sich durch die selbstätige Anpassung der Hörhilfe für den Hörhilfeträger, eine Anpassung manuell vornehmen zu müssen, z.B. durch manuelle Einstellung eines geeigneten Signalverarbeitungsparameters. Somit wird eine Verbesserung der Bedienfreundlichkeit erreicht. Nicht zuletzt kann die selbstätige Anpassung der Hörhilfe auch ein manuelles Einstell-Element, z.B. einen Programmwahl-Schalter, unnötig machen; damit kann anstelle des vergleichsweise voluminösen Programmwahl-Schalters der vergleichsweise kleine UV-Sensor treten und somit eine Verringerung der Gehäusegröße der Hörhilfe erreicht werden.In addition, it is unnecessary by the selbstätige adjustment of the hearing aid for the hearing aid wearer to make an adjustment manually, e.g. by manually setting an appropriate signal processing parameter. Thus, an improvement in ease of use is achieved. Last but not least, the self-adjustment of the hearing aid may also include a manual adjustment element, e.g. make a program selector switch unnecessary; Thus, instead of the comparatively voluminous program selection switch, the comparatively small UV sensor occur and thus a reduction of the housing size of the hearing aid can be achieved.

In einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung umfasst der einzustellende Signalverarbeitungsparameter mindestens einen der folgenden Parameter:

  • Betriebsart,
  • Betriebsprogramm, oder
  • Programmparameter.
In an advantageous development of the invention, the signal processing parameter to be set comprises at least one of the following parameters:
  • mode,
  • Operating program, or
  • Program parameters.

Unter Betriebsart soll eine Arbeitsweise der Hörhilfe verstanden werden, z.B. unter Berücksichtigung unterschiedlicher Geräteumgebungen oder Gerätebedingungen, beispielsweise bei Anschluss eines sogenannten Audio-Schuhs, bei Einlegen der Hörhilfe in eine Ladeschale, bei Anschluss einer Spannungsversorgung, Anschluss eines Programmiergeräts, Herstellen von kabellosen oder kabelgebundenen Verbindungen zu anderen Hörhilfen, bei erschöpfter Batterie-Spannungsversorgung, oder bei Anschluss unterschiedlicher Mikrofone oder Receiver (Lautsprecher).By operating mode is meant a way of working of the hearing aid, e.g. Taking into account different device environments or device conditions, for example, when connecting a so-called audio shoe, when inserting the hearing aid in a charging cradle, when connecting a power supply, connection of a programmer, establishing wireless or wired connections to other hearing aids, in exhausted battery power supply, or when connecting different microphones or receivers (speakers).

Unter Betriebsprogramm soll ein Signalverarbeitungsprogramm oder ein Unterprogramm eines Signalverarbeitungsprogramms zur Hörsignalverarbeitung verstanden werden, z.B. unter Berücksichtigung von Umgebungsbedingungen bzw. -Situation, Bedürfnissen des Hörhilfeträgers, Hörsignal-Eingangsquellen, oder Hörhilfe-Therapie-Empfehlungen. Betriebsprogramme werden üblicherweise als Hörprogramme bezeichnet und üblicherweise verfügen Hörhilfen über Auswahlmöglichkeit zwischen mehreren durch Programmierung der Hörhilfe voreingestellten Hörprogrammen.The term operating program should be understood to mean a signal processing program or a subprogram of a signal processing program for auditory signal processing, eg taking into account environmental conditions or situation, needs of the hearing aid wearer, auditory signal input sources, or hearing aid therapy recommendations. Operating programs are usually referred to as hearing programs and usually hearing aids have a choice between a plurality of preset by programming the hearing aid listening programs.

Unter Programmparameter soll eine Parameter-Einstellung einer Betriebsart oder eines Betriebsproramms verstanden werden, z.B. ein Lautstärke-Schwellwert, ein akustischer Kompressionsgrad, ein akustischer Frequenzwert oder Frequenzgang, eine Prozessor-Taktfrequenz, eine Ladeschaltung für wiederaufladbare Hörhilfe-Batterien, die Aktivierbarkeit unterschiedlicher Betriebsprogramme, ein Frequenz-Schwellwert oder Intensitäts-Schwellwert für die Empfindlichkeit des UV-Licht-Sensors, oder die Öffnung eines Programmierkanals.Program parameters shall be understood to mean a parameter setting of a mode or an operating profile, e.g. a volume threshold, an acoustic compression level, an acoustic frequency value or frequency response, a processor clock frequency, a charging circuit for rechargeable hearing aid batteries, the activability of different operating programs, a frequency threshold or intensity threshold for the sensitivity of the UV light sensor , or the opening of a programming channel.

Durch geeignete Wahl des von der Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung einzustellenden Signalverarbeitungsparameters kann das zusätzlich verfügbare Signal der UV-Sensors besonders vorteilhaft für den Betrieb der Hörhilfe berücksichtigt werden. Die Vielzahl der einstellbaren Signalverarbeitungsparameter erhöht dabei vorteilhafterweise die Vielfalt der Berücksichtigungsmöglichkeiten.By suitable choice of the signal processing parameter to be set by the signal processing device, the additionally available signal of the UV sensor can be taken into account particularly advantageously for the operation of the hearing aid. The plurality of adjustable signal processing parameters advantageously increases the variety of consideration options.

In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung umfasst die Hörhilfe einen Hörschlauch zum Leiten von elektrischen oder akustischen Hörsignalen zum Ohr eines Hörhilfeträgers, und der UV-Sensor ist in oder an dem Hörschlauch angeordnet. Hörhilfen mit Hörschlauch sind insbesondere Hinter-dem-Ohr (HdO) Hörhilfen oder HdO Hörhilfen mit Receiverim-Kanal (HdO - RiK), wobei unter Receiver der Lautsprecher der Hörhilfe verstanden wird und dieser im Gehörgang der Hörhilfeträgers positioniert wird. Ähnliche Konstellationen ergeben sich beispielsweise auch für in der Helix oder Concha des Ohrs positionierte Hörhilfen.In a further advantageous development of the invention, the hearing aid comprises a hearing tube for conducting electrical or acoustic hearing signals to the ear of a hearing aid wearer, and the UV sensor is arranged in or on the hearing tube. Hearing aids with a hearing tube are in particular behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids or BTE hearing aids with Receiverim channel (BTE - RiK), whereby the receiver of the hearing aid loudspeaker is understood and this is positioned in the auditory canal of the hearing aid wearer. Similar constellations also arise, for example, for hearing aids positioned in the helix or concha of the ear.

Durch die Anordnung des UV-Sensors am Hörschlauch ergibt sich insbesondere bei HdO und HdO - RiK Hörhilfen der Vorteil, dass der UV-Sensor nicht von der Ohrmuschel des Hörhilfeträgers verdeckt wird. Der Hörschlauch wird üblicherweise von der hinter der Ohrmuschel angeordneten Hörhilfe über die Ohrmuschel zum Gehörgang des Hörhilfeträgers geführt. Damit verläuft der Hörschlauch teilweise oberhalb der Ohrmuschel, teilweise frontal vor der Ohrmuschel. Dort befinden sich die am wenigsten von Ohrmuschel oder Haaren beschatteten Stellen im Bereich des Ohrs, so dass der UV-Sensor das Umgebungslicht weitgehend ungehindert aufnehmen kann.The arrangement of the UV sensor on the hearing tube results in particular in BTE and BTE hearing aids the advantage that the UV sensor is not covered by the auricle of the hearing aid wearer. The hearing tube is usually guided by the hearing aid arranged behind the auricular over the auricle to the auditory canal of the hearing aid wearer. Thus, the hearing tube runs partially above the auricle, partially frontally in front of the auricle. There are the least shaded areas of the auricle or hair in the area of the ear, so that the UV sensor can absorb the ambient light largely unhindered.

In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung ist mindestens je ein vorbestimmter Signalverarbeitungsparameter für innerhalb und außerhalb geschlossener Räume einstellbar.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one predetermined signal processing parameter for inside and outside closed rooms is adjustable.

Die vorbestimmten Signalverarbeitungsparameter können beispielsweise beim Programmieren der Hörhilfe vor-programmiert werden. Sie können als Start-Parameterwerte für einen Selbstanpassungsalgorithmus der Signalverarbeitung dienen, so dass der jeweils zuletzt durch Selbstanpassung ermittelte Parameterwert beim nächsten Einstellen des jeweiligen Parameters verwendet wird. Sie können auch als dauerhaft vorprogrammierte Parameterwerte einprogrammiert werden, z.B. beim Einstellen der Hörhilfe beim Hörhilfe-Akkustiker, die jedesmal beim Einstellen des jeweiligen Parameters unverändert verwendet werden. Außerdem können die jeweiligen Parameter durch die Hörhilfe-Hardware fest vorgegeben sein. Weitere Ausführungsvarianten sind denkbar.The predetermined signal processing parameters may be pre-programmed, for example, when programming the hearing aid. They can be used as start parameter values for a self-adaptation algorithm of the signal processing, so that the parameter value determined last by self-adaptation is used the next time the respective parameter is set. They can also be programmed as permanently preprogrammed parameter values, e.g. when adjusting the hearing aid with the hearing aid acoustician, which are used unchanged each time you set the respective parameter. In addition, the respective parameters may be fixed by the hearing aid hardware. Other variants are conceivable.

Durch die Einstellung je eines vorbestimmten Signalverarbeitungsparameters für innerhalb und außerhalb geschlossener Räume ergibt sich der Vorteil, dass für diese zwei grundsätzlich unterschiedlichen Umgebungssituationen eine jeweils angepasste Arbeitsweise der Hörhilfe selbstätig aktiviert wird. Dabei gestattet der UV-Sensor vorteilhafter und besonders einfacher Weise eine sehr selektive Detektion der jeweiligen Umgebungssituation. Obwohl nämlich die Verwendung sichtbaren Lichts als Detektionskriterium nahezuliegen scheinen könnte, ist zu bedenken, dass sichtbares Licht auch innerhalb geschlossener Räume in durchaus nennenswerter Intensität künstlich erzeugt wird; daher ist die Verwendung eines Licht-Sensors, der im Frequenz-Bereich sichtbaren Lichts arbeitet, nicht zweckmäßig. Dahingegen wird UV-Licht normalerweise innerhalb geschlossener Räume nicht oder kaum künstlich erzeugt. Deshalb ist der UV-Anteil im Umgebungslicht ein zuverlässiges Kriterium zur Unterscheidung des beiden Umgebungssituationen und der UV-Sensor ein geeigneter und gleichzeitig hoch selektiv arbeitender Sensor.By setting each a predetermined signal processing parameter for inside and outside closed rooms, there is the advantage that for each of these two fundamentally different environmental situations a respectively adapted operation of the hearing aid is activated selbstätig. In this case, the UV sensor allows advantageously and particularly simple manner a very selective detection of the respective Environmental situation. Although the use of visible light as a detection criterion might seem to be close, it should be remembered that visible light is artificially generated even within closed spaces in quite considerable intensity; therefore, the use of a light sensor operating in the frequency range of visible light is not appropriate. On the other hand, UV light is normally not or hardly artificially generated within closed spaces. Therefore, the UV component in the ambient light is a reliable criterion for distinguishing the two environmental situations and the UV sensor is a suitable and at the same time highly selective sensor.

Weitere vorteilhafte Weiterbildungen der Erfindung ergeben sich aus den abhängigen Patentansprüchen und der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen anhand von Figuren. Es zeigen:

FIG 1
HdO-Hörhilfe mit UV-Sensor
FIG 2
IdO-Hörhilfe mit UV-Sensor
Further advantageous developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to FIGS. Show it:
FIG. 1
BTE hearing aid with UV sensor
FIG. 2
IdO hearing aid with UV sensor

FIG 1 ist eine Hörhilfe 1 in HdO-Ausführung schematisch dargestellt. Die Hörhilfe 1 weist ein Gehäuse 2 auf und umfasst einen Hörschlauch 10. Der Hörschlauch 10 dient dazu, Hörsignale, also akustische Ausgangssignale der Hörhilfe 1, zu einem Ohr des Hörhilfeträgers zu leiten. Einen vergleichbaren Aufbau weist eine HdO-RiK-Hörhilfe auf, bei der der Hörschlauch jedoch nicht dazu dient, akustische Signale zum Ohr des Hörhilfeträgers zu leiten. Statt dessen werden bei RiK-Hörhilfen elektrische Signale durch den Hörschlauch zu einem im Gehörgang des Hörhilfeträgers positionierten Receiver, also Lautsprecher, geleitet. FIG. 1 is a hearing aid 1 in BTE version shown schematically. The hearing aid 1 has a housing 2 and comprises a hearing tube 10. The hearing tube 10 serves to guide auditory signals, that is to say acoustic output signals of the hearing aid 1, to an ear of the hearing aid wearer. A comparable construction has a BTE hearing aid on which, however, the hearing tube does not serve to convey acoustic signals to the ear of the hearing aid wearer. Instead, in RiK hearing aids, electrical signals are conducted through the hearing tube to a receiver positioned in the auditory canal of the hearing aid wearer, ie loudspeakers.

An dem Ende des Hörschlauchs 10 ist ein so genannter Dom 11 angeordnet. Der Dom 11 ist eine halbrunde Struktur aus weichem, elastischem Material, z.B. Silikon. Er dient dazu, den Hörschlauch 10 im Gehörgang des Hörhilfeträgers zu positionieren und gegen unbeabsichtigtes Herausrutschen zu sichern. Im Gehäuse 2 ist ein Mikrophon 3 zum Aufnehmen von akustischen Signalen angeordnet. Es ist über eine Leitung mit einer Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 verbunden, die der Verarbeitung der akustischen Eingangssignale dient. Die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 ist somit maßgeblich für die Übertragungsfunktion der Hörhilfe 1. Sie ist über eine weitere Leitung mit einem Receiver 4 verbunden, durch den die aus der Übertragungsfunktion erhaltenen Signale in akustische Signale umgewandelt werden, die dann durch den Hörschlauch 10 weitergeleitet werden.At the end of the hearing tube 10, a so-called dome 11 is arranged. The Dom 11 is a semicircular structure made of soft, elastic material, eg silicone. It serves to position the hearing tube 10 in the auditory canal of the hearing aid wearer and to secure it against accidental slipping out. In the housing 2, a microphone 3 is arranged for receiving acoustic signals. It is connected via a line to a signal processing device 5, which serves to process the acoustic input signals. It is thus connected via a further line with a receiver 4, by which the signals obtained from the transfer function are converted into acoustic signals, which are then forwarded through the hearing tube 10.

Die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 bezieht ihre Versorgungsspannung von einer Batterie 6. Sämtliche innerhalb des Gehäuses 2 angeordneten Vorrichtungselemente sind in der Abbildung strichliert angedeutet.The signal processing device 5 draws its supply voltage from a battery 6. All disposed within the housing 2 device elements are indicated by dashed lines in the figure.

Die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 ist dazu ausgebildet, in verschiedenen Betriebsarten, verschiedenen Betriebsprogrammen oder mit verschiedenen Programmparametern zu arbeiten. Diese verschiedenen Betriebsmöglichkeiten unterscheiden sich durch die jeweils eingestellten Parameterwerte und stellen jeweils ein verschiedenes Verfahren zum Betrieb der Hörhilfe 1 dar.The signal processing device 5 is designed to operate in different operating modes, different operating programs or with different program parameters. These different operating options differ by the respectively set parameter values and each represent a different method for operating the hearing aid 1.

Über eine weitere Leitung 21, die teilweise innerhalb des Gehäuses 2 verläuft, teilweise im Hörschlauch 10, ist ein UV-Sensor 20 mit der Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 verbunden. Der Hörschlauch 10 ist aus optischen Gründen in der Regel transparent ausgeführt, daher ist der im Hörschlauch 10 verlaufende Teil der Leitung 21 nicht strichliert sondern durchgezogen dargestellt.Via a further line 21, which partially extends within the housing 2, partially in the hearing tube 10, a UV sensor 20 is connected to the signal processing device 5. The hearing tube 10 is designed for visual reasons usually transparent, therefore, the running in the hearing tube 10 part of the line 21 is not dashed but shown in solid.

Im Bereich des UV-Sensors 20 ist der Hörschlauch 10 UVdurchlässig ausgeführt. Wahlweise kann auch ein Fenster im Hörschlauch 10 dafür vorgesehen sein, UV-Licht zum UV-Sensor 20 durchzulassen. Ausgangssignale des UV-Sensors 20 werden über die Leitung 21 der Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 zugeführt. Diese ist in der Lage, ihre Betriebsweise in Abhängigkeit vom Ausgangssignal des UV-Sensors 20 zu verändern, z.B. hinsichtlich der Betriebsart, des Betriebsprogramms oder eines Programmparameters. Insbesondere kann die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 bei Überschreitung eines UV-Intensitäts-Schwellwerts ein Betriebsprogramm aktivieren, das für Umgebungen außerhalb geschlossener Räume geeignet ist. Diese Betriebsprogramm-Wahl ist begründet durch den Umstand, dass eine erhöhte UV-Sensität vor allem außerhalb geschlossener Räume auftritt. Umgekehrt kann bei Unterschreitung eines UV-Intensitäts-Schwellwerts ein für geschlossene Räume geeignetes Betriebsprogramm aktiviert werden.In the area of the UV sensor 20, the hearing tube 10 is UV-permeable. Optionally, a window in the hearing tube 10 may be provided to pass UV light to the UV sensor 20. Output signals of the UV sensor 20 are supplied via the line 21 of the signal processing device 5. This is able to depend on their mode of operation from the output signal of the UV sensor 20, for example with regard to the operating mode, the operating program or a program parameter. In particular, if a UV intensity threshold value is exceeded, the signal processing device 5 can activate an operating program which is suitable for environments outside of closed rooms. This operating program choice is based on the fact that an increased UV sensitivity occurs especially outside of closed rooms. Conversely, when a UV intensity threshold is undershot, an operating program suitable for closed rooms can be activated.

Die Schwellwerte der UV-Licht-Intensität können in der Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 bzw. am UV-Sensor 20 verändert werden, um grundsätzlich unterschiedlichen Umgebungsbedingungen, z.B. in unterschiedlichen Höhenlagen oder Klimazonen, Rechnung zu tragen. Der Frequenz-Arbeitsbereichs des UV-Sensors 20 wird in üblicher Weise gewählt, z.B. im Frequenz-bereich UV-A oder UV-B.The threshold values of the UV light intensity can be changed in the signal processing device 5 or on the UV sensor 20 in order to detect fundamentally different environmental conditions, e.g. at different altitudes or climates. The frequency working range of the UV sensor 20 is chosen in the usual way, e.g. in the frequency range UV-A or UV-B.

In Figur 2 ist eine Hörhilfe 30 in In-dem-Ohr-Ausführung (IdO) dargestellt. Im Gehäuse 31 der Hörhilfe 30, das an die Form des Gehörgangs des jeweiligen Hörhilfeträgers angepasst ist, befinden sich, strichliert angedeutet, ein Mikrophon 3, ein Receiver 4, eine Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5, eine Batterie 6, die alle wie vorangehend beschrieben ausgeführt sind. Zusätzlich befindet sich in dem von der Gehörgangseite abgewandten Teil des Gehäuses 31 ein UV-Sensor 20, der ebenfalls wie vorangehend beschrieben ausgeführt ist. Er ist in einem Gehäuseabschnitt angeordnet, der entweder UV-Lichtdurchlässig ist oder der ein Fenster für UV-Licht aufweist. Im Übrigen entspricht die Arbeitsweise in Abhängigkeit von Ausgangssignalen des UV-Sensors 20 der in der vorangehenden Figur Beschriebenen.In FIG. 2 For example, a hearing aid 30 is shown in in-the-ear (IdO) implementation. In the housing 31 of the hearing aid 30, which is adapted to the shape of the ear canal of the respective hearing aid wearer, indicated by dashed lines, there are a microphone 3, a receiver 4, a signal processing device 5, a battery 6, all of which are designed as described above. In addition, located in the remote from the ear canal side of the housing 31, a UV sensor 20, which is also carried out as described above. It is located in a housing section which is either UV transparent or which has a window for UV light. Incidentally, the operation in response to output signals of the UV sensor 20 corresponds to that described in the preceding figure.

Die Erfindung lässt sich wie folgt zusammenfassen: Die Erfindung betrifft eine Hörhilfe und ein Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Hörhilfe. Gemäß der Erfindung umfasst die Hörhilfe 1, 30 die eine Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5, die mit unterschiedlichen Signalverarbeitungsparametern arbeiten kann, wobei ein UV-Sensor 20 vorgesehen ist, der mit der Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 verbunden ist, und wobei die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung 5 in Abhängigkeit von einem Ausgangssignal des UV-Sensors 20 mindestens einen Signalverarbeitungsparameter einstellen kann. Vorteilhafter Weise ist mindestens je ein vorbestimmter Signalverarbeitungsparameter für innerhalb und außerhalb geschlossener Räume einstellbar ist. Anhand der durch den UV-Sensor zu messenden UV-Licht-Intensität in der Umgebung kann zuverlässig zwischen Umgebungssituationen innerhalb und außerhalb geschlossener Räume unterschieden werden, so dass Betriebsweise der Hörhilfe, z.B. des Hörprogramms, vorteilhafter Weise automatisch an diese beiden Umgebungssituationen angepasst wird.The invention can be summarized as follows: The invention relates to a hearing aid and a method for operating a hearing aid. According to the invention, the hearing aid 1, 30 the one signal processing device 5, which can operate with different signal processing parameters, wherein a UV sensor 20 is provided, which is connected to the signal processing device 5, and wherein the signal processing device 5 in response to an output signal of the UV sensor 20 can set at least one signal processing parameter. Advantageously, at least one predetermined signal processing parameter for inside and outside closed rooms is adjustable. Based on the ultraviolet light intensity to be measured by the UV sensor in the environment, a distinction can be made reliably between environmental situations inside and outside closed rooms, so that the mode of operation of the hearing aid, eg of the hearing program, is advantageously automatically adapted to these two environmental situations.

Claims (12)

Hörhilfe (1, 30), die eine Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung (5) umfasst, die mit unterschiedlichen Signalverarbeitungsparametern arbeiten kann,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
ein UV-Sensor (20) vorgesehen ist, der mit der Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung (5) verbunden ist, und dass die Signalverarbeitungseinrichtung (5) in Abhängigkeit von einem Ausgangssignal des UV-Sensors (20) mindestens einen Signalverarbeitungsparameter einstellen kann.Hearing aid (1, 30), which comprises a signal processing device (5) which can operate with different signal processing parameters,
characterized in that
a UV sensor (20) is provided, which is connected to the signal processing device (5), and that the signal processing device (5) in response to an output signal of the UV sensor (20) can set at least one signal processing parameter. Hörhilfe (1, 30) nach Anspruch 1,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
die Signalverarbeitungsparameter mindestens einen der folgenden Parameter umfassen: - Betriebsart, - Betriebsprogramm, oder - Programmparameter. Hearing aid (1, 30) according to claim 1,
characterized in that
the signal processing parameters include at least one of the following parameters: - operating mode, - operating program, or - Program parameters. Hörhilfe (30) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
der UV-Sensor (20) in einem Gehäuse (31) der Hörhilfe (30) angeordnet ist.Hearing aid (30) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
the UV sensor (20) is arranged in a housing (31) of the hearing aid (30). Hörhilfe (1) nach einem der Ansprüche 1 oder 2,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
die Hörhilfe (1) einen Hörschlauch (10) zum Leiten von elektrischen oder akustischen Hörsignalen zum Ohr eines Hörhilfeträgers umfasst, und dass der UV-Sensor (20) in oder an dem Hörschlauch (10) angeordnet ist.Hearing aid (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2,
characterized in that
the hearing aid (1) comprises a hearing tube (10) for conducting electrical or acoustic hearing signals to the ear of a hearing aid wearer, and that the UV sensor (20) is arranged in or on the hearing tube (10). Hörhilfe (1, 30) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
mindestens je ein vorbestimmter Signalverarbeitungsparameter für innerhalb und außerhalb geschlossener Räume einstellbar ist.Hearing aid (1, 30) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
at least one predetermined signal processing parameter for inside and outside closed rooms is adjustable. Hörhilfe (1, 30) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
ein Signalverarbeitungsparameter zur Einstellung eines UV-Licht-Intensitätsschwellwertes einstellbar ist.Hearing aid (1, 30) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
a signal processing parameter for setting a UV light intensity threshold is adjustable. Hörhilfe (1, 30) nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
ein Signalverarbeitungsparameter zur Einstellung eines UV-Licht-Frequenzbereichs einstellbar ist.Hearing aid (1, 30) according to one of the preceding claims,
characterized in that
a signal processing parameter for setting a UV light frequency range is adjustable. Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Hörhilfe (1, 30)
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
eine Intensität eines UV-Lichts in der Umgebung der Hörhilfe (1, 30) gemessen wird, und dass in Abhängigkeit vom Ergebnis der Messung ein Signalverarbeitungsparamter der Hörhilfe (1, 30) eingestellt wird.Method for operating a hearing aid (1, 30)
characterized in that
an intensity of a UV light in the vicinity of the hearing aid (1, 30) is measured, and that a signal processing parameter of the hearing aid (1, 30) is set depending on the result of the measurement. Verfahren nach Anspruch 8,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
als Signalverarbeitungsparameter mindestens einer der folgenden Parameter eingestellt wird: - eine Betriebsart, - ein Betriebsprogramm, oder - ein Programmparameter. Method according to claim 8,
characterized in that
is set as signal processing parameter of at least one of the following parameters: a mode of operation, - an operating program, or - a program parameter. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 8 oder 9,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
mindestens je ein vorbestimmter Signalverarbeitungsparameter für innerhalb und außerhalb geschlossener Räume eingestellt wird.Method according to one of claims 8 or 9,
characterized in that
at least one predetermined signal processing parameter for inside and outside closed rooms is set. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 8 bis 10,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
ein Signalverarbeitungsparameter zur Einstellung eines UV-Licht-Intensitätsschwellwertes einstellbar ist.Method according to one of claims 8 to 10,
characterized in that
a signal processing parameter for setting a UV light intensity threshold is adjustable. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 8 bis 11
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
ein Signalverarbeitungsparameter zur Einstellung eines UV-Licht-Frequenzbereichs einstellbar ist.Method according to one of claims 8 to 11
characterized in that
a signal processing parameter for setting a UV light frequency range is adjustable.
EP09164849A 2008-07-25 2009-07-08 Hearing aid with UV sensor and operating method Active EP2148530B1 (en)

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ATE501603T1 (en) 2011-03-15
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