EP3070964B1 - Hearing device, in particular hearing aid - Google Patents

Hearing device, in particular hearing aid Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3070964B1
EP3070964B1 EP16155817.6A EP16155817A EP3070964B1 EP 3070964 B1 EP3070964 B1 EP 3070964B1 EP 16155817 A EP16155817 A EP 16155817A EP 3070964 B1 EP3070964 B1 EP 3070964B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
sound
sound generator
signal
generator
frequency
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Active
Application number
EP16155817.6A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3070964A1 (en
Inventor
Hoong Yih Chan
Chuan Foong LEE
Eduardo BAS Jr
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Sivantos Pte Ltd
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Sivantos Pte Ltd
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Publication of EP3070964A1 publication Critical patent/EP3070964A1/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
    • H04R25/40—Arrangements for obtaining a desired directivity characteristic
    • H04R25/405—Arrangements for obtaining a desired directivity characteristic by combining a plurality of transducers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R23/00—Transducers other than those covered by groups H04R9/00 - H04R21/00
    • H04R23/002—Transducers other than those covered by groups H04R9/00 - H04R21/00 using electrothermic-effect transducer
    • 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
    • H04R25/45—Prevention of acoustic reaction, i.e. acoustic oscillatory feedback
    • H04R25/456—Prevention of acoustic reaction, i.e. acoustic oscillatory feedback mechanically
    • 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
    • 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
    • H04R2225/021—Behind the ear [BTE] hearing aids
    • H04R2225/0213—Constructional details of earhooks, e.g. shape, material
    • 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
    • H04R2225/49—Reducing the effects of electromagnetic noise on the functioning of hearing aids, by, e.g. shielding, signal processing adaptation, selective (de)activation of electronic parts in hearing aid
    • 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
    • H04R3/00—Circuits for transducers, loudspeakers or microphones
    • H04R3/12—Circuits for transducers, loudspeakers or microphones for distributing signals to two or more loudspeakers
    • H04R3/14—Cross-over networks
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10S977/00—Nanotechnology

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a hearing aid, in particular a hearing aid, comprising a housing, a signal processing unit arranged in the housing and a first sound generator, which is arranged in the housing, wherein the first sound generator is adapted to convert an output signal of the signal processing unit into sound.
  • a hearing aid having a microphone and an electroacoustic transducer
  • mechanical vibrations caused by the electroacoustic transducer can lead to instability of the signal path.
  • the vibrations may be recorded by the microphone through an acoustic feedback and converted into an electrical signal which, after amplification, is applied to the electroacoustic transducer and converted into sound by it.
  • a closed loop is formed, in which the vibrations are amplified more and more.
  • instability of the system which is noticeable in an increase of unwanted signal components that may exceed the load limit of individual components of the hearing aid or the pain threshold of a user of the hearing aid.
  • frequencies between 1 kHz and 12 kHz are particularly affected by the electro-acoustic amplification and resonant feedback of mechanical vibrations.
  • a sufficiently high gain of a signal before the sound generation is particularly important for frequencies between 2 kHz and 4 kHz. Since particularly important formants for the detection of consonants occur in this frequency band, a good reproduction dynamics, ie in particular a very high output level, is of particular importance for speech intelligibility.
  • the hearing aid should therefore allow the loudest possible generation of sound in this frequency band in order to be able to produce as rich a sound image as possible when reproducing speech.
  • the US 2007/291971 A1 refers to a hearing aid in which two different receivers, so speakers, are provided for the generation of high-frequency or low-frequency sound signals.
  • the two speakers are each connected to a high-frequency or a low-frequency output of the D / A Koverters, which lies in the signal path behind the signal processor.
  • the high-frequency speaker either cylindrical with an inner sound conductor (for the low-frequency sound of the underlying low-frequency receiver), or the low-frequency sound laterally in a tubular conductor at high frequency Receiver to pass by.
  • these arrangements lead to a complex design and also to a complex contacting, in particular of the high-frequency receiver.
  • the US 2006/0159298 A1 also mentions a hearing aid in which two receivers are used for sound generation.
  • an output signal of the signal processor of the hearing aid is divided by a frequency-separating analog filter into a high-frequency and a low-frequency component, which are reproduced by one of the two receivers.
  • thermoacoustic transducer for generating a counter-sound signal
  • the counter-sound signal is to be compensated for by a direct to propagate through a vent to the direct sound.
  • the invention is therefore based on the object to provide a hearing aid, which in the generation of sound the highest possible playback dynamics across a wide frequency spectrum allowed, and should have a compact design and the lowest possible susceptibility to mechanical vibration.
  • a hearing aid in particular a hearing aid, comprising a housing, a signal processing unit arranged in the housing, a first sound generator, which is arranged in the housing, and a second sound generator, wherein the first sound generator and the second sound generator each set up are to convert an output signal of the signal processing unit into sound.
  • the hearing aid further comprises a crossover with a signal input, a low-frequency output and a high-frequency output, wherein the signal processing unit for supplying the output signal is connected to the crossover via the signal input, wherein the low-frequency output to the first sound generator and the high-frequency output is connected to the second sound generator, and the first sound generator comprises an electro-acoustic transducer, which generates vibration energy in the sound generation.
  • the second sound generator comprises a thermoacoustic transducer which generates no vibration energy in the sound generation.
  • the invention is based on a hearing device which has a housing, a signal processing unit arranged in the housing, and a sound generator arranged in the housing, which is set up to convert an output signal of the signal processing unit into sound.
  • the sound generator is designed as an electroacoustic transducer.
  • the invention recognizes in a first step that for the highest possible playback dynamics in a wide frequency spectrum, a frequency-dependent attenuation of the signal level to prevent vibration is counterproductive, since the lack of dynamics in the corresponding frequency bands impaired the sound quality, that this is not remedied by other measures can be. It should therefore be attempted to prevent the occurrence of vibrations through design measures and not by regulating the gain.
  • the vibrations to be prevented arise substantially initially as vibrations of the housing surrounding the sound generator, which absorbs, for example, by an insufficiently damped suspension of the sound generator of this vibration energy, which arises in the sound generation, and thereby the housing is excited according to its resonance properties.
  • An improvement in the suspension damping is limited, however, due to space limitations.
  • such an adaptation of the damping in a compact design is sufficiently effective only for certain frequency bands, since on the one hand, the damping effect at a given elasticity of a damper is frequency-dependent, and on the other hand depend on the corresponding attenuation constants of the suspension of the dimension.
  • the suppression of a coupling of generated by the sound generator vibration energy in the surrounding housing is thus under the structural specifications not to achieve arbitrary broadband frequency spectra.
  • a particularly high dynamics in the reproduction of signals is desired in order to achieve a high intelligibility
  • the second sound generator would be interpreted in particular for a high playback performance in this frequency band.
  • the first - that is, the originally existing - sound generator could then be designed, for example, for lower frequency bands, and the suspension of the first sound generator could be designed especially for the attenuation of low-frequency vibrations.
  • the invention proposes that the first sound generator comprises an electroacoustic transducer, and the second sound generator comprises a thermoacoustic transducer. This allows a particularly compact generation of sound in particular higher frequencies with high playback dynamics.
  • thermoacoustic transducer While usually the generation of sound in a hearing aid by electro-acoustic transducers, the use of a thermoacoustic transducer in the second sound generator in this case first has the advantage that it does not generate vibration energy in the generation of sound.
  • a thermoacoustic transducer from an electrical signal a sound signal is generated by the fact that on a surface or a surface of the thermoacoustic transducer by the electrical Signal temperature fluctuations are generated.
  • These rapidly oscillating temperature fluctuations on the surface or surface of the thermoacoustic transducer lead to a time-variable temperature gradient of the adjacent air layers. By this time-varying temperature gradient, the adjacent air layers can be set in vibration, which propagate as a sound signal.
  • thermoacoustic transducer For such a sound generation of any kind of proper movement of the thermoacoustic transducer is not required, and not provided.
  • the sound is generated by the thermoacoustic transducer thus no vibrations, which can be delivered to the environment or to a suspension.
  • a sound generator with a thermoacoustic transducer in particular one which is suitable for an arrangement in a hearing aid because of its dimensions, also has particularly dynamic playback behavior for frequencies above 1 kHz.
  • a low-frequency output is understood to mean an output at which signal components of a signal input into the crossover via the signal input in such a way be issued that decreases from a first cutoff frequency of the signal level up to a second cutoff frequency and from the second cutoff frequency no appreciable signal level is more recorded.
  • a high-frequency output is accordingly defined as an output at which signal components are output which have a significant signal level only above a third limit frequency.
  • the third cutoff frequency is preferably well below the second cutoff frequency and particularly preferably in the range of the first cutoff frequency, so that a sufficient overlap of the frequency responses of the low frequency output and the high frequency output is ensured.
  • the crossover is set up such that the frequency response of the low-frequency output is tuned to the frequency response of the first sound generator, and that the frequency response of the high-frequency output to the frequency response of the second sound generator, so the thermoacoustic transducer is tuned.
  • the use of such a crossover allows the operation of the first sound generator and designed as a thermoacoustic transducer second sound generator with a common output signal of the signal processing unit, whereby only one signal output is required at this.
  • thermoacoustic transducer comprises at least one film formed of carbon nanotubes, which is connected to at least one signal terminal, wherein by applying a signal voltage to the or each signal terminal, a time-varying heating in the or each film is caused, by means of which the thermoacoustic effect a sound is generated.
  • the carbon nanotubes can be aligned substantially parallel to each other, even several layers of bundles of parallel carbon nanotubes, wherein the orientations of the carbon nanotubes of two successive layers are mutually orthogonal, is possible in this case.
  • thermoacoustic transducer with a carbon nanotube film can also be dimensioned particularly compact under the specifications of the desired sound reproduction.
  • the second sound generator is arranged in the housing. Such positioning simplifies the connection of the second sound generator to the signal processing unit.
  • an arrangement of the second sound generator is in principle also possible in a connectable to the hearing aid sound conductor, via which a generated sound signal is continued to the hearing of a user. Such a procedure allows a further reduction in the size of the hearing aid.
  • the first sound generator is designed such that it has a higher maximum reproduction level for frequencies in a frequency range up to 4 kHz, preferably up to 2 kHz, than for frequencies above this frequency range.
  • the maximum playback level must be related to the maximum sound pressure that can be generated.
  • the frequency response of the first sound generator can decrease below a first cutoff frequency below 4 kHz, preferably below 3 kHz, and at a second cutoff frequency, preferably above 4 kHz, in particular above 6 kHz, have a complete cut-off.
  • thermoacoustic transducer in particular one which is suitable for an arrangement in a hearing aid in terms of its dimensioning, is designed especially for the generation of sound of frequencies above 1 kHz, and thereby a maximum reproduction level preferably in the range between 2 kHz and 4 kHz has to show
  • a first sound generator that reaches its maximum playback level in lower frequency bands, in combination with the second sound generator, can contribute to a complete sound image.
  • a sound chamber is formed with a sound outlet in the housing, wherein the first sound generator is adapted to generate sound in the sound space, and wherein the second sound generator is arranged in the sound space.
  • the generated sound can be continued here via the sound output and possibly a sound conductor and / or an earmold for the hearing of a user.
  • a sound generation of the first sound generator in the sound chamber is to be understood that a significant proportion of the generated sound power is recordable as sound pressure in the sound space, with radiation into other areas of the hearing aid is not excluded.
  • Such an arrangement makes it possible in particular for a modular design of the hearing device, in which the first sound generator, the second sound generator, the corresponding suspensions and signal connections, and, if present, a crossover can be combined to form a module in an inner housing surrounding the said components.
  • the sound chamber is formed in the inner housing.
  • the modular design allows for design and layout of the remaining components of the hearing aid - e.g. the signal processing unit or the or each microphone - independent of the sound generators.
  • the second sound generator is arranged in the sound path between the first sound generator and the sound outlet.
  • the primary - that is, as possible reflection-free way to understand - along which propagates a sound signal generated by the first sound generator to the sound output.
  • the microstructure is thereby produced the thermoacoustic transducer is optimally utilized, which allows an almost unhindered propagation of a sound signal through the film.
  • the second sound generator is preferably arranged laterally to the sound path between the first sound generator and the sound outlet.
  • the selection of the positioning of the second sound generator can be made dependent in particular on its dimensioning and on the desired individual spectral properties with regard to the reproduction dynamics.
  • the hearing device comprises a third sound generator, which is adapted to convert an output signal of the signal processing unit into sound, wherein the third sound generator comprises a thermoacoustic transducer.
  • the third sound generator may be different from the second sound generator, and in particular, the third sound generator may have a different frequency response than the second sound generator.
  • the hearing aid comprises a reversibly connectable to the housing sound conductor, which has a number of signal terminals, wherein the second sound generator and / or the third sound generator is arranged in the sound conductor, and wherein in the connected state of the sound conductor with the housing on the number of signal terminals of the Sound conductor a signal connection from the signal processing unit to the second and third sound generator is made.
  • the spectral properties of the sound conductor can be used to improve the playback dynamics.
  • FIG. 1 is shown in a sectional view schematically a hearing aid 1, which is designed here as a hearing aid 2.
  • the hearing aid 1 comprises a housing 4, in which a modular unit 6 is inserted.
  • the modular unit 6 has an inner housing 8, which surrounds a sound space 10.
  • a first sound generator 12 is arranged on a damping suspension 14.
  • the first sound generator 12 is designed here as a conventional, electroacoustic transducer.
  • a second sound generator 16 is arranged in the inner housing 8 of the modular unit 6, which is designed as a thermoacoustic transducer 18.
  • the second sound generator 16 has two signal terminals 20 and a film 22 of carbon nanotubes.
  • a signal splitter 24 having a signal input 26 for receiving an output signal 28 of a signal processing unit 30 is first arranged in the inner housing 8. From a low-frequency output 32 of the signal splitter 24 performs a low-frequency connection 34 to the first sound generator 12. Further, the signal splitter 24 has a high-frequency output 36, from each of which high-frequency connections 38 to the two signal terminals 20 of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 lead. The output signal 28 output by the signal processing unit 30 is decomposed in the signal splitter 24 into a low-frequency component and a high-frequency component.
  • the low-frequency component of the output signal 28 is output at the low-frequency output 32 via the low-frequency connection 34 to the first sound generator, and converted by the latter into sound with predominantly low frequencies.
  • the sound generated by the first sound generator 12 propagates predominantly in the sound space 10 to a sound output 40, whereby a sound path 44 is formed.
  • the sound output 40 in this case has a rubber nozzle 42, on which a not shown sound conductor can be placed, through which the sound generated in the sound space 10 can be forwarded to another earmold and ultimately to the user of the hearing aid.
  • the high-frequency signal component of the output signal 28 is output at the high-frequency output 36 via the respective high-frequency connections 38 to the thermoacoustic transducer 18, and converted by the latter into sound with predominantly high frequencies.
  • the arrangement of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 in the sound path 44 of the first sound generator 12 has here due to the microstructure of the carbon nanotube film 22 no significant effect on the sound of the first sound generator 12 and its propagation.
  • the first sound generator 12 is designed as an electroacoustic transducer for powerful sound generation up to frequencies of 3 kHz, above these frequencies, the playback spectrum decreases continuously to a complete cut-off at about 6-7 kHz.
  • the thermoacoustic transducer 18 is designed for a particularly powerful sound generation in the range of about 1 kHz to 15 kHz.
  • thermoacoustic design of the playback performance of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 is a certain freedom, but the lower limit - ie the frequency from which the thermoacoustic Transducer can generate a significant sound pressure - is to choose the frequency range so that a significant overlap with the playback spectrum of the first sound generator 12 is ensured, and the upper limit - from which the producible sound pressure decreases - primarily of the still for the respective Application depends on desired and / or required frequencies.
  • the gains for corresponding frequency bands can be optimized in the signal processing unit 30, that with the lowest possible feedback in a not shown in detail in the drawing microphone of the hearing aid 1 as dynamic a reproduction is achieved. Due to the damping suspension 14 of the first sound generator 12, on the one hand mechanical vibrations of the first sound generator can be partially absorbed. Furthermore, the first sound generator can be optimized for low-vibration operation in the low-frequency range.
  • first sound generator 12 and a second sound generator 16 now on the one hand allows to optimize the first sound generator in terms of its low-frequency reproduction and vibration characteristics, and the second sound generator for maximum gain in certain higher frequency bands -. in the range of 2 kHz to 4 kHz relevant for speech intelligibility.
  • thermoacoustic transducer 18th In combination with a conventional electroacoustic transducer, as given in the first sound generator 12. Due to the microstructure of the film 22 of carbon nanotubes, which is similar to a fine tissue through which the sound of the first sound generator 12 can propagate, there are no restrictions on the arrangement of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 with respect to the sound path 44.
  • FIG. 2 is shown in a sectional view of an alternative arrangement of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 in a hearing aid 1, which up to the positioning of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 already in FIG. 1 is shown.
  • the thermoacoustic transducer 18 is in this case not in the sound path 44 of the sound, which propagates from the first sound generator 12 to the sound output 40 of the sound chamber 10, but laterally and longitudinally to the sound path 44.
  • the concrete selection of the arrangement can of the required dimensioning of the thermoacoustic transducer 18th , in particular the carbon nanotube film 22, which in turn is related to the desired optimum frequency response of the second sound generator 16.
  • FIG. 2 a sound conductor 46 is shown, which has a connector 48 at one end.
  • the connector 48 is in this case inserted into the rubber nozzle 42, whereby a vibration-damped mechanical connection between the hearing aid 1 and the sound conductor 46 is made.
  • the sound conductor 46 has a signal connection 50 and a third sound generator 52 which, like the second sound generator 16, is likewise designed as a thermoacoustic transducer 54.
  • the signal connection 50 is connected to the thermoacoustic converter 54, so that a signal connection 56 between the thermoacoustic converter 54 and the signal processing unit 30 can be produced via a corresponding contact pin on the housing 4 of the hearing device or on the inner housing 8.
  • thermoacoustic transducer second sound generator in the sound conductor conceivable, and by a corresponding signal connection directly via contact pins or indirectly - via a high-frequency output of a signal switch - is connected to the signal processing unit.
  • the first sound generator in the housing of the hearing device generates primarily low-frequency sound, which propagates directly into the sound conductor. There, the high-frequency sound is "added" by the thermoacoustic transducer for the widest possible signal converter.

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

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Hörgerät, insbesondere ein Hörhilfegerät, umfassend ein Gehäuse, eine im Gehäuse angeordnete Signalverarbeitungseinheit und einen ersten Schallerzeuger, der im Gehäuse angeordnet ist, wobei der erste Schallerzeuger dazu eingerichtet ist, ein Ausgangssignal der Signalverarbeitungseinheit in Schall umzuwandeln.The invention relates to a hearing aid, in particular a hearing aid, comprising a housing, a signal processing unit arranged in the housing and a first sound generator, which is arranged in the housing, wherein the first sound generator is adapted to convert an output signal of the signal processing unit into sound.

In einem Hörhilfegerät, welches ein Mikrofon und einen elektroakustischen Wandler aufweist, können durch den elektroakustischen Wandler hervorgerufene mechanische Vibrationen zu einer Instabilität des Signalweges führen. Beispielsweise können die Vibrationen durch eine akustische Rückkopplung vom Mikrofon aufgezeichnet und in ein elektrisches Signal umgewandelt werden, welches nach Verstärkung dem elektroakustischen Wandler zugeführt und von diesem in Schall umgewandelt wird. Hierdurch wird eine geschlossene Schleife gebildet, in welcher die Vibrationen immer weiter verstärkt werden. Als Folge droht eine Instabilität des Systems, welche sich bemerkbar macht in einer Verstärkung von unerwünschten Signalanteilen, die die Belastungsgrenze einzelner Komponenten des Hörhilfegeräts oder die Schmerzgrenze eines Benutzers des Hörhilfegeräts überschreiten können.In a hearing aid having a microphone and an electroacoustic transducer, mechanical vibrations caused by the electroacoustic transducer can lead to instability of the signal path. For example, the vibrations may be recorded by the microphone through an acoustic feedback and converted into an electrical signal which, after amplification, is applied to the electroacoustic transducer and converted into sound by it. As a result, a closed loop is formed, in which the vibrations are amplified more and more. As a result threatens instability of the system, which is noticeable in an increase of unwanted signal components that may exceed the load limit of individual components of the hearing aid or the pain threshold of a user of the hearing aid.

Insbesondere ist hierbei nicht nur eine rein elektroakustische Rückkopplung eines durch den elektroakustischen Wandler wiedergegebenen Schallsignals über das Mikrofon in den Signalweg von Belang. Auch mechanische Vibrationen des elektroakustischen Wandlers, welche beispielsweise durch eine resonante Anregung des ihn umgebenden Gehäuses im Hörhilfegerät resultieren können, finden im Fall unzureichender akustischer Abschirmung des Mikrofons gegen die Vibrationen durch dieses Eingang in den elektrischen Signalweg. Durch eine Verstärkung in der Signalverarbeitung des Hörhilfegeräts und eine Wiedergabe über den elektroakustischen Wandler können die den mechanischen Vibrationen entsprechenden Frequenzen die sie ursprünglich erzeugenden Vibrationen weiter verstärken. Durch diese elektroakustische Rückkopplung wird die mechanische Vibration ebenso resonant angeregt. Die Anregung erfolgt dabei umso stärker, je größer die Verstärkung des Signals in der Signalverarbeitung ist.In particular, here is not only a purely electro-acoustic feedback of reproduced by the electro-acoustic transducer sound signal through the microphone in the signal path of concern. Also, mechanical vibrations of the electro-acoustic transducer, which may result, for example, by a resonant excitation of the surrounding housing in the hearing aid, find in the case of insufficient acoustic shielding of the microphone against the vibrations through this input in the electrical signal path. Through an amplification in the signal processing of the hearing aid and a playback on the electro-acoustic transducer, the mechanical Vibrations corresponding frequencies further amplify the original generating vibrations. This electroacoustic feedback also stimulates the mechanical vibration in a resonant manner. The excitation takes place all the more, the greater the amplification of the signal in the signal processing.

Aufgrund der Dimensionen üblicher Hörhilfegeräte und der daraus resultierenden Resonanzeigenschaften sind Frequenzen zwischen 1 kHz und 12 kHz besonders von der elektroakustischen Verstärkung und resonanten Rückkopplung mechanischer Vibrationen betroffen. Eine hinreichend hohe Verstärkung eines Signals vor der Schallerzeugung ist jedoch insbesondere für Frequenzen zwischen 2 kHz und 4 kHz wichtig. Da in diesem Frequenzband besonders wichtige Formanten zur Erkennung von Konsonanten auftreten, ist eine gute Wiedergabedynamik, also insbesondere ein möglichst hoher Ausgangspegel, gerade für die Sprachverständlichkeit von Bedeutung. Das Hörhilfegerät soll also in diesem Frequenzband eine möglichst laute Schallerzeugung ermöglichen, um bei einer Wiedergabe von Sprache ein möglichst reiches Klangbild erzeugen zu können.Due to the dimensions of conventional hearing aids and the resulting resonance characteristics, frequencies between 1 kHz and 12 kHz are particularly affected by the electro-acoustic amplification and resonant feedback of mechanical vibrations. A sufficiently high gain of a signal before the sound generation, however, is particularly important for frequencies between 2 kHz and 4 kHz. Since particularly important formants for the detection of consonants occur in this frequency band, a good reproduction dynamics, ie in particular a very high output level, is of particular importance for speech intelligibility. The hearing aid should therefore allow the loudest possible generation of sound in this frequency band in order to be able to produce as rich a sound image as possible when reproducing speech.

Üblicherweise wird daher anhand von Testreihen und entsprechender Algorithmen versucht, für verschiedene Frequenzen die maximale Verstärkung zu ermitteln, bei welcher eine Instabilität des Signalwegs infolge resonanter Anregung noch unterbunden bleibt. Jedoch sind der maximalen Verstärkung und somit einem reichen Klangbild auch bei einer derartigen frequenzabhängigen Optimierung der Verstärkung an die jeweilige Stabilitätsgrenze hin enge Grenzen durch die mechanischen Gegebenheiten des Hörhilfegeräts gesetzt. Bei derartigen Testreihen sind zudem die ggf. in realen Situationen auftretenden nichtlinearen Effekte bei der resonanten Anregung zu berücksichtigen, um den noch zulässigen Verstärkungsfaktor nicht fälschlich als zu hoch anzusetzen, was in der Praxis eine Instabilität begünstigen würde. Eine aus den genannten Überlegungen konservative Abschätzung der noch zulässigen Verstärkung bei einer jeweiligen Frequenz begrenzt allerdings die Dynamik der Wiedergabe zusätzlich.Usually, it is therefore attempted on the basis of test series and corresponding algorithms to determine the maximum amplification for different frequencies at which an instability of the signal path due to resonant excitation is still prevented. However, even with such a frequency-dependent optimization of the gain to the respective stability limit, the maximum amplification and thus a rich sound image are limited by the mechanical conditions of the hearing aid. In the case of such test series, the non-linear effects possibly occurring in real situations in the case of resonant excitation must also be taken into account so that the still permissible amplification factor is not erroneously set too high, which would in practice lead to instability. A conservative estimation of the permissible amplification from the above considerations at a given frequency, however, limits the dynamics of the playback in addition.

Die US 2007/291971 A1 nennt ein Hörgerät, in welchem zwei unterschiedliche Receiver, also Lautsprecher, für die Schallerzeugung hoch- bzw. niederfrequenter Schallsignale vorgesehen sind. Die beiden Lautsprecher sind dabei jeweils mit einem Hochfrequenz- bzw. einem Niederfrequenz-Ausgang des D/A-Koverters verbunden, welcher im Signalweg hinter dem Signalprozessor liegt. Um einen parallelen Betrieb der Receiver zu ermöglichen, wird dabei unter anderem vorgeschlagen, den Hochfrequenz-Lautsprecher entweder zylinderförmig mit einem inneren Schallleiter (für den niederfrequenten Schall des dahinter liegenden Niederfrequenz-Receivers) auszugestalten, oder den niederfrequenten Schall seitlich in einem rohrförmigen Leiter am Hochfrequenz-Receiver vorbei zu leiten. Diese Anordnungen führen jedoch zu einer komplexen Bauweise und zudem zu einer aufwändigen Kontaktierung insbesondere des Hochfrequenz-Receivers.The US 2007/291971 A1 refers to a hearing aid in which two different receivers, so speakers, are provided for the generation of high-frequency or low-frequency sound signals. The two speakers are each connected to a high-frequency or a low-frequency output of the D / A Koverters, which lies in the signal path behind the signal processor. In order to enable a parallel operation of the receiver, it is proposed, inter alia, to design the high-frequency speaker either cylindrical with an inner sound conductor (for the low-frequency sound of the underlying low-frequency receiver), or the low-frequency sound laterally in a tubular conductor at high frequency Receiver to pass by. However, these arrangements lead to a complex design and also to a complex contacting, in particular of the high-frequency receiver.

Die US 2006/0159298 A1 nennt ebenfalls ein Hörgerät, in welchem zwei Receiver zur Schallerzeugung verwendet werden. Hierbei wird ein Ausgangssignal des Signalprozessors des Hörgerätes durch ein frequenz-separierendes analoges Filter in einen hochfrequenten und einen niederfrequenten Anteil aufgeteilt, welche durch jeweils einen der beiden Receiver wiedergegeben werden.The US 2006/0159298 A1 also mentions a hearing aid in which two receivers are used for sound generation. In this case, an output signal of the signal processor of the hearing aid is divided by a frequency-separating analog filter into a high-frequency and a low-frequency component, which are reproduced by one of the two receivers.

In der US 2010/0195858 A1 ist ein Hörgerät gezeigt, welches als Receiver einen thermoakustischen Wandler aufweist. Hierbei kann ein zweiter thermoakustischer Wandler zur Erzeugung eines Gegenschallsignals vorgesehen sein, wobei dadurch das Gegenschallsignal ein etwa durch einen Vent zum Gehör propagierender Direktschall kompensiert werden soll.In the US 2010/0195858 A1 a hearing aid is shown, which has a receiver as a thermoacoustic transducer. In this case, a second thermoacoustic transducer for generating a counter-sound signal may be provided, whereby the counter-sound signal is to be compensated for by a direct to propagate through a vent to the direct sound.

Der Erfindung liegt die daher Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Hörgerät anzugeben, welches bei der Schallerzeugung eine möglichst hohe Wiedergabedynamik über ein breites Frequenzspektrum hinweg erlaubt, und dabei eine kompakte Bauweise sowie eine möglichst geringe Anfälligkeit für mechanische Vibrationen aufweisen soll.The invention is therefore based on the object to provide a hearing aid, which in the generation of sound the highest possible playback dynamics across a wide frequency spectrum allowed, and should have a compact design and the lowest possible susceptibility to mechanical vibration.

Die genannte Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß gelöst durch ein Hörgerät, insbesondere ein Hörhilfegerät, umfassend ein Gehäuse, eine im Gehäuse angeordnete Signalverarbeitungseinheit, einen ersten Schallerzeuger, der im Gehäuse angeordnet ist, und einen zweiten Schallerzeuger, wobei der erste Schallerzeuger und der zweite Schallerzeuger jeweils dazu eingerichtet sind, ein Ausgangssignal der Signalverarbeitungseinheit in Schall umzuwandeln. Weiter umfasst das Hörgerät eine Frequenzweiche mit einem Signaleingang, einem Niederfrequenz-Ausgang und einem Hochfrequenz-Ausgang, wobei über den Signaleingang die Signalverarbeitungseinheit zur Einspeisung des Ausgangssignals mit der Frequenzweiche verbunden ist, wobei der Niederfrequenz-Ausgang mit dem ersten Schallerzeuger und der Hochfrequenz-Ausgang mit dem zweiten Schallerzeuger verbunden ist, und der erste Schallerzeuger einen elektroakustischen Wandler umfasst, welcher bei der Schallerzeugung Vibrationsenergie generiert. Hierbei ist vorgesehen, dass der zweite Schallerzeuger einen thermoakustischen Wandler umfasst, welcher bei der Schallerzeugung keine Vibrationsenergie generiert.Said object is achieved by a hearing aid, in particular a hearing aid, comprising a housing, a signal processing unit arranged in the housing, a first sound generator, which is arranged in the housing, and a second sound generator, wherein the first sound generator and the second sound generator each set up are to convert an output signal of the signal processing unit into sound. The hearing aid further comprises a crossover with a signal input, a low-frequency output and a high-frequency output, wherein the signal processing unit for supplying the output signal is connected to the crossover via the signal input, wherein the low-frequency output to the first sound generator and the high-frequency output is connected to the second sound generator, and the first sound generator comprises an electro-acoustic transducer, which generates vibration energy in the sound generation. It is provided that the second sound generator comprises a thermoacoustic transducer which generates no vibration energy in the sound generation.

Vorteilhafte und teils für sich gesehen erfinderische Ausgestaltungen sind Gegenstand der Unteransprüche und der nachfolgenden Beschreibung.Advantageous and partly inventive in themselves embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims and the following description.

Die Erfindung geht dabei von einem Hörgerät aus, welches ein Gehäuse, eine im Gehäuse angeordnete Signalverarbeitungseinheit, und einen im Gehäuse angeordneten Schallerzeuger aufweist, welcher dazu eingerichtet ist, ein Ausgangssignal der Signalverarbeitungseinheit in Schall umzuwandeln. Insbesondere ist der Schallerzeuger dabei als ein elektroakustischer Wandler ausgebildet.The invention is based on a hearing device which has a housing, a signal processing unit arranged in the housing, and a sound generator arranged in the housing, which is set up to convert an output signal of the signal processing unit into sound. In particular, the sound generator is designed as an electroacoustic transducer.

Die Erfindung erkennt in einem ersten Schritt, dass für eine möglichst hohe Wiedergabedynamik in einem breiten Frequenzspektrum eine frequenzabhängige Abschwächung der Signalpegel zur Unterbindung von Vibrationen kontraproduktiv ist, da die fehlende Dynamik in den entsprechenden Frequenzbändern die Klangqualität derart beeinträchtigt, dass dies nicht durch andere Maßnahmen behoben werden kann. Es soll somit versucht werden, das Entstehen von Vibrationen über konstruktive Maßnahmen und nicht über eine Regelung der Verstärkung zu unterbinden.The invention recognizes in a first step that for the highest possible playback dynamics in a wide frequency spectrum, a frequency-dependent attenuation of the signal level to prevent vibration is counterproductive, since the lack of dynamics in the corresponding frequency bands impaired the sound quality, that this is not remedied by other measures can be. It should therefore be attempted to prevent the occurrence of vibrations through design measures and not by regulating the gain.

Die zu unterbindenden Vibrationen entstehen hierbei im Wesentlichen zunächst als Vibrationen des den Schallerzeuger umgebenden Gehäuses, welches beispielsweise durch eine nicht ausreichend gedämpfte Aufhängung des Schallerzeugers von diesem Vibrationsenergie aufnimmt, welche bei der Schallerzeugung entsteht, und hierdurch das Gehäuse entsprechend seiner Resonanzeigenschaften angeregt wird. Eine Verbesserung der Dämpfung der Aufhängung ist jedoch aus Platzgründen nur eingeschränkt möglich. Insbesondere ist eine derartige Anpassung der Dämpfung bei kompakter Bauweise nur für bestimmte Frequenzbänder ausreichend wirksam, da einerseits die Dämpfungswirkung bei einer vorgegebenen Elastizität eines Dämpfers frequenzabhängig ist, und andererseits die entsprechenden Dämpfungskonstanten der Aufhängung von deren Abmessung abhängen.The vibrations to be prevented arise substantially initially as vibrations of the housing surrounding the sound generator, which absorbs, for example, by an insufficiently damped suspension of the sound generator of this vibration energy, which arises in the sound generation, and thereby the housing is excited according to its resonance properties. An improvement in the suspension damping is limited, however, due to space limitations. In particular, such an adaptation of the damping in a compact design is sufficiently effective only for certain frequency bands, since on the one hand, the damping effect at a given elasticity of a damper is frequency-dependent, and on the other hand depend on the corresponding attenuation constants of the suspension of the dimension.

Die Unterdrückung einer Einkopplung von durch den Schallerzeuger generierter Vibrationsenergie in das ihn umgebende Gehäuse ist somit unter den konstruktiven Vorgaben nicht für beliebig breitbandige Frequenzspektren zu erreichen. Da jedoch gerade im Frequenzband von 2 kHz bis 4 kHz eine besonders hohe Dynamik in der Wiedergabe von Signalen erwünscht ist, um eine hohe Sprachverständlichkeit zu erreichen, könnte man geneigt sein, einen zweiten Schallerzeuger vorzusehen, und dessen Aufhängung derart auszugestallten, dass in diesem Frequenzband Vibrationen besonders wirksam gedämpft werden. Dies würde erlauben, im besagten Frequenzband eine besonders hohe Signalverstärkung anzuwenden. Der zweite Schallerzeuger wäre dabei insbesondere für eine hohe Wiedergabeleistung in diesem Frequenzband auszulegen. Der erste - also der bereits ursprünglich vorhandene - Schallerzeuger könnte dann beispielsweise für niedrigere Frequenzbänder ausgelegt sein, und die Aufhängung des ersten Schallerzeugers könnte besonders für die Dämpfung von niederfrequenten Vibrationen konzipiert werden.The suppression of a coupling of generated by the sound generator vibration energy in the surrounding housing is thus under the structural specifications not to achieve arbitrary broadband frequency spectra. However, since particularly in the frequency band of 2 kHz to 4 kHz, a particularly high dynamics in the reproduction of signals is desired in order to achieve a high intelligibility, one might be inclined to provide a second sound generator, and its suspension ausgestestallten such that in this frequency band Vibrations are damped particularly effectively. This would allow a particular in the said frequency band apply high signal amplification. The second sound generator would be interpreted in particular for a high playback performance in this frequency band. The first - that is, the originally existing - sound generator could then be designed, for example, for lower frequency bands, and the suspension of the first sound generator could be designed especially for the attenuation of low-frequency vibrations.

Dies ist jedoch vor dem Hintergrund der gewünschten kompakten Konstruktion nur schwer zu realisieren. Selbst bei einer kompakten Dimensionierung des zweiten Schallerzeugers ist seine bauliche Integration in ein Hörgerät, in welchem ein weiterer Schallerzeuger vorgesehen ist, nicht zuletzt vor dem Hintergrund der erforderlichen dämpfenden Aufhängung der beiden Schallerzeuger nicht ohne weiteres zu bewerkstelligen. Überdies ist der mittels eines Schallerzeugers maximal erzeugbare Schalldruck - und somit auch die durch diesen erreichbare Wiedergabedynamik - meist auch dimensionsabhängig. Eine zu weitgehende Verringerung der Größe des zweiten Schallerzeugers hätte wiederum ein unbefriedigendes Klangbild in den Frequenzbändern zur Folge, für welche der zweite Schallerzeuger überhaupt besonders vorgesehen wäre.However, this is difficult to realize against the background of the desired compact design. Even with a compact dimensioning of the second sound generator, its structural integration into a hearing aid, in which a further sound generator is provided, not to accomplish, not least against the background of the required damping suspension of the two sound generators not readily. Moreover, the maximum sound pressure that can be generated by means of a sound generator - and thus also the reproduction dynamics that can be achieved by it - is usually dimension-dependent as well. Too large a reduction in the size of the second sound generator would in turn result in an unsatisfactory sound image in the frequency bands, for which the second sound generator would be particularly provided.

Demgegenüber schlägt die Erfindung vor, dass der erste Schallerzeuger einen elektroakustischen Wandler umfasst, und der zweite Schallerzeuger einen thermoakustischen Wandler umfasst. Dies erlaubt eine besonders kompakte Schallerzeugung insbesondere höherer Frequenzen bei hoher Wiedergabedynamik.In contrast, the invention proposes that the first sound generator comprises an electroacoustic transducer, and the second sound generator comprises a thermoacoustic transducer. This allows a particularly compact generation of sound in particular higher frequencies with high playback dynamics.

Während üblicherweise die Schallerzeugung in einem Hörgerät durch elektroakustische Wandler erfolgt, hat der Einsatz eines thermoakustischen Wandlers im zweiten Schallerzeuger hierbei zunächst den Vorteil, dass dieser bei der Schallerzeugung keine Vibrationsenergie generiert. Bei einem thermoakustischen Wandler wird aus einem elektrischen Signal ein Schallsignal dadurch erzeugt, dass an einer Fläche oder einer Oberfläche des thermoakustischen Wandlers durch das elektrisehe Signal Temperaturschwankungen erzeugt werden. Diese schnell oszillierenden Temperaturschwankungen an der Fläche oder Oberfläche des thermoakustischen Wandlers führen zu einem zeitveränderlichen Temperaturgradienten der angrenzenden Luftschichten. Durch diesen zeitveränderlichen Temperaturgradienten können die angrenzenden Luftschichten in Schwingungen versetzt werden, welche sich als ein Schallsignal ausbreiten.While usually the generation of sound in a hearing aid by electro-acoustic transducers, the use of a thermoacoustic transducer in the second sound generator in this case first has the advantage that it does not generate vibration energy in the generation of sound. In a thermoacoustic transducer from an electrical signal, a sound signal is generated by the fact that on a surface or a surface of the thermoacoustic transducer by the electrical Signal temperature fluctuations are generated. These rapidly oscillating temperature fluctuations on the surface or surface of the thermoacoustic transducer lead to a time-variable temperature gradient of the adjacent air layers. By this time-varying temperature gradient, the adjacent air layers can be set in vibration, which propagate as a sound signal.

Für eine derartige Schallerzeugung ist eine wie auch immer geartete Eigenbewegung des thermoakustischen Wandlers nicht erforderlich, und auch nicht vorgesehen. Bei der Schallerzeugung durch den thermoakustischen Wandler entstehen somit keine Vibrationen, welche an die Umgebung oder an eine Aufhängung abgegeben werden können. Dies ist im Fall eines Schallerzeugers für ein Hörgerät insbesondere vor dem Hintergrund relevant, dass die üblicherweise verwendeten Dimensionen insbesondere für das Gehäuse und die Aufhängung des Schallerzeugers zu einem Resonanzspektrum führen, welches durch eine mechanische Vibration in Frequenzbereichen oberhalb von 1 kHz leicht zu einer Instabilität des Systems führen kann. Ein Schallerzeuger mit einem thermoakustischen Wandler, insbesondere ein solcher, welcher von seiner Dimensionierung her für eine Anordnung in einem Hörgerät geeignet ist, weist zudem für Frequenzen oberhalb von 1 kHz besonders dynamisches Wiedergabeverhalten auf.For such a sound generation of any kind of proper movement of the thermoacoustic transducer is not required, and not provided. When the sound is generated by the thermoacoustic transducer thus no vibrations, which can be delivered to the environment or to a suspension. This is relevant in the case of a sound generator for a hearing aid, in particular against the background that the dimensions commonly used, in particular for the housing and the suspension of the sound generator to a resonant spectrum, which easily by mechanical vibration in frequency ranges above 1 kHz to instability of the Systems can lead. A sound generator with a thermoacoustic transducer, in particular one which is suitable for an arrangement in a hearing aid because of its dimensions, also has particularly dynamic playback behavior for frequencies above 1 kHz.

Dadurch, dass also bei der Schallerzeugung durch den zweiten Schallerzeuger keine Vibrationsenergie generiert wird, welche über eine Aufhängung in das Gehäuse einkoppeln und dort zum Mikrofon gelangen kann, werden durch Vibrationen bedingte Instabilitäten wirksam unterbunden. Durch die besonders hohe Dynamik bei der Wiedergabe von Frequenzen im Bereich oberhalb von 1 kHz kann diese Erhöhung der Systemstabilität ohne zu erwartende Verluste bei der Klangqualität erreicht werden.As a result, no vibration energy is generated during the generation of sound by the second sound generator which can be coupled into the housing via a suspension and can reach the microphone there, instabilities caused by vibrations are effectively prevented. Due to the particularly high dynamics in the reproduction of frequencies in the range above 1 kHz, this increase in system stability can be achieved without expected losses in sound quality.

Unter einem Niederfrequenz-Ausgang ist vorliegend ein Ausgang zu verstehen, an welchem Signalanteile eines über den Signaleingang in die Frequenzweiche eingegebenen Signals derart ausgegeben werden, dass ab einer ersten Grenzfrequenz der Signalpegel bis zu einer zweiten Grenzfrequenz abnimmt und ab der zweiten Grenzfrequenz kein nennenswerter Signalpegel mehr zu verzeichnen ist. Ein Hochfrequenz-Ausgang ist entsprechend als ein Ausgang definiert, an welchem Signalanteile ausgegeben werden, welche nur oberhalb einer dritten Grenzfrequenz einen nennenswerten Signalpegel aufweisen. Die dritte Grenzfrequenz liegt dabei bevorzugt deutlich unterhalb der zweiten Grenzfrequenz und besonders bevorzugt im Bereich der ersten Grenzfrequenz, damit ein ausreichender Überlapp der Frequenzgänge des Niederfrequenz-Ausgangs und des Hochfrequenz-Ausgangs gewährleistet ist.In the present case, a low-frequency output is understood to mean an output at which signal components of a signal input into the crossover via the signal input in such a way be issued that decreases from a first cutoff frequency of the signal level up to a second cutoff frequency and from the second cutoff frequency no appreciable signal level is more recorded. A high-frequency output is accordingly defined as an output at which signal components are output which have a significant signal level only above a third limit frequency. The third cutoff frequency is preferably well below the second cutoff frequency and particularly preferably in the range of the first cutoff frequency, so that a sufficient overlap of the frequency responses of the low frequency output and the high frequency output is ensured.

Bevorzugt ist dabei die Frequenzweiche derart eingerichtet, dass der Frequenzgang des Niederfrequenz-Ausgangs auf den Frequenzgang des ersten Schallerzeugers abgestimmt ist, und dass der Frequenzgang des Hochfrequenz-Ausgangs auf den Frequenzgang des zweiten Schallerzeugers, also des thermoakustischen Wandlers abgestimmt ist. Die Verwendung einer derartigen Frequenzweiche erlaubt den Betrieb des ersten Schallerzeugers und des als thermoakustischen Wandler ausgebildeten zweiten Schallerzeugers mit einem gemeinsamen Ausgangssignal der Signalverarbeitungseinheit, wodurch an dieser nur ein Signalausgang erforderlich ist.Preferably, the crossover is set up such that the frequency response of the low-frequency output is tuned to the frequency response of the first sound generator, and that the frequency response of the high-frequency output to the frequency response of the second sound generator, so the thermoacoustic transducer is tuned. The use of such a crossover allows the operation of the first sound generator and designed as a thermoacoustic transducer second sound generator with a common output signal of the signal processing unit, whereby only one signal output is required at this.

Zweckmäßigerweise umfasst der thermoakustische Wandler wenigstens einen aus Carbon-Nanoröhren gebildeten Film, welcher mit wenigstens einem Signalanschluss verbunden ist, wobei durch ein Anlegen einer Signalspannung an den oder jeden Signalanschluss ein zeitveränderliches Erhitzen in dem oder jedem Film hervorgerufen wird, durch welches mittels des thermoakustischen Effekts ein Schall erzeugt wird. In einem derartigen Film können die Carbon-Nanoröhren weitgehend parallel zueinander ausgerichtet sein, auch mehrere Lagen von Bündeln zueinander paralleler Carbon-Nanoröhren, wobei die Ausrichtungen der Carbon-Nanoröhren zweier aufeinander folgender Lagen zueinander orthogonal sind, ist hierbei möglich.Conveniently, the thermoacoustic transducer comprises at least one film formed of carbon nanotubes, which is connected to at least one signal terminal, wherein by applying a signal voltage to the or each signal terminal, a time-varying heating in the or each film is caused, by means of which the thermoacoustic effect a sound is generated. In such a film, the carbon nanotubes can be aligned substantially parallel to each other, even several layers of bundles of parallel carbon nanotubes, wherein the orientations of the carbon nanotubes of two successive layers are mutually orthogonal, is possible in this case.

Die beschriebene Mikrostruktur des Films erlaubt eine weitgehend ungehinderte Propagation eines Schalls durch den Film hindurch. Dies ermöglicht eine Anordnung des zweiten Schallerzeugers zwischen dem ersten Schallerzeuger und einem Schallausgang, von welchem aus das erzeugte Schallsignal zum Gehör eines Benutzers weitergeführt wird, z.B. mittels eines Schallleiters und/oder eines Ohrpassstücks. Ein thermoakustischer Wandler mit einem Carbon-Nanoröhren-Film kann überdies unter den Vorgaben der erwünschten Klangwiedergabe besonders kompakt dimensioniert sein.The described microstructure of the film allows a largely unhindered propagation of a sound through the film. This allows an arrangement of the second sound generator between the first sound generator and a sound output, from which the generated sound signal is continued to a user's ear, e.g. by means of a sound conductor and / or an ear mold. A thermoacoustic transducer with a carbon nanotube film can also be dimensioned particularly compact under the specifications of the desired sound reproduction.

Günstigerweise ist der zweite Schallerzeuger im Gehäuse angeordnet. Eine derartige Positionierung vereinfacht die Verbindung des zweiten Schallerzeugers mit der Signalverarbeitungseinheit. Eine Anordnung des zweiten Schallerzeugers ist prinzipiell jedoch auch in einem mit dem Hörgerät verbindbaren Schallleiter möglich, über welchen ein erzeugtes Schallsignal zum Gehör eines Benutzers weitergeführt wird. Ein derartiges Vorgehen erlaubt eine weitere Verringerung der Größe des Hörgeräts.Conveniently, the second sound generator is arranged in the housing. Such positioning simplifies the connection of the second sound generator to the signal processing unit. However, an arrangement of the second sound generator is in principle also possible in a connectable to the hearing aid sound conductor, via which a generated sound signal is continued to the hearing of a user. Such a procedure allows a further reduction in the size of the hearing aid.

In einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist der erste Schallerzeuger derart ausgebildet, dass er für Frequenzen in einem Frequenzbereich bis zu 4 kHz, bevorzugt bis 2 kHz, einen höheren maximalen Wiedergabepegel aufweist als für Frequenzen oberhalb dieses Frequenzbereichs. Der maximale Wiedergabepegel ist hierbei auf den maximal erzeugbaren Schalldruck zu beziehen. Insbesondere kann der Frequenzgang des ersten Schallerzeugers ab einer ersten Grenzfrequenz unterhalb von 4 kHz, bevorzugt unterhalb von 3 kHz, abnehmen und bei einer zweiten Grenzfrequenz, bevorzugt oberhalb von 4 kHz, insbesondere oberhalb von 6 kHz, ein vollständiges Cut-off aufweisen. Während ein thermoakustischer Wandler, insbesondere ein solcher, welcher von seiner Dimensionierung her für eine Anordnung in einem Hörgerät geeignet ist, besonders für die Schallerzeugung von Frequenzen oberhalb von 1 kHz ausgelegt ist, und dabei einen maximalen Wiedergabepegel bevorzugt im Bereich zwischen 2 kHz und 4 kHz aufzuweisen hat, kann ein erster Schallerzeuger, welcher seinen maximalen Wiedergabepegel in tieferen Frequenzbändern erreicht, in Kombination mit dem zweiten Schallerzeuger zu einem vollständigen Klangbild beitragen.In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first sound generator is designed such that it has a higher maximum reproduction level for frequencies in a frequency range up to 4 kHz, preferably up to 2 kHz, than for frequencies above this frequency range. The maximum playback level must be related to the maximum sound pressure that can be generated. In particular, the frequency response of the first sound generator can decrease below a first cutoff frequency below 4 kHz, preferably below 3 kHz, and at a second cutoff frequency, preferably above 4 kHz, in particular above 6 kHz, have a complete cut-off. While a thermoacoustic transducer, in particular one which is suitable for an arrangement in a hearing aid in terms of its dimensioning, is designed especially for the generation of sound of frequencies above 1 kHz, and thereby a maximum reproduction level preferably in the range between 2 kHz and 4 kHz has to show For example, a first sound generator that reaches its maximum playback level in lower frequency bands, in combination with the second sound generator, can contribute to a complete sound image.

Bevorzugt ist im Gehäuse ein Schallraum mit einem Schallausgang ausgebildet, wobei der erste Schallerzeuger dazu eingerichtet ist, Schall im Schallraum zu erzeugen, und wobei der zweite Schallerzeuger im Schallraum angeordnet ist. Der erzeugte Schall kann hierbei über den Schallausgang und ggf. einen Schallleiter und/oder ein Ohrpassstück zum Gehör eines Benutzers weitergeführt werden. Unter einer Schallerzeugung des ersten Schallerzeugers im Schallraum ist dabei zu verstehen, dass ein wesentlicher Anteil der erzeugten Schallleistung als Schalldruck im Schallraum registrierbar ist, wobei eine Abstrahlung in andere Bereiche des Hörgerätes nicht ausgeschlossen ist. Eine derartige Anordnung ermöglicht insbesondere eine modulare Bauweise des Hörgeräts, bei welcher der erste Schallerzeuger, der zweite Schallerzeuger, die entsprechenden Aufhängungen und Signalverbindungen, sowie, falls vorhanden, eine Frequenzweiche zu einem Modul in einem die genannten Komponenten umgebenden Innengehäuse zusammengefasst werden können. Der Schallraum ist dabei im Innengehäuse ausgebildet. Die modulare Bauweise erlaubt ein Design und eine Auslegung der verbleibenden Komponenten des Hörgeräts - z.B. der Signalverarbeitungseinheit oder des oder jedes Mikrofons - unabhängig von den Schallerzeugern.Preferably, a sound chamber is formed with a sound outlet in the housing, wherein the first sound generator is adapted to generate sound in the sound space, and wherein the second sound generator is arranged in the sound space. The generated sound can be continued here via the sound output and possibly a sound conductor and / or an earmold for the hearing of a user. Under a sound generation of the first sound generator in the sound chamber is to be understood that a significant proportion of the generated sound power is recordable as sound pressure in the sound space, with radiation into other areas of the hearing aid is not excluded. Such an arrangement makes it possible in particular for a modular design of the hearing device, in which the first sound generator, the second sound generator, the corresponding suspensions and signal connections, and, if present, a crossover can be combined to form a module in an inner housing surrounding the said components. The sound chamber is formed in the inner housing. The modular design allows for design and layout of the remaining components of the hearing aid - e.g. the signal processing unit or the or each microphone - independent of the sound generators.

Günstigerweise ist hierbei der zweite Schallerzeuger im Schallweg zwischen dem ersten Schallerzeuger und dem Schallausgang angeordnet. Unter dem Schallweg zwischen dem ersten Schallerzeuger und dem Schallausgang ist hierbei der primäre - also möglichst reflexionsfreie - Weg zu verstehen, entlang dessen ein vom ersten Schallerzeuger erzeugtes Schallsignal zum Schallausgang propagiert. Eine derartige Anordnung erlaubt einerseits eine besonders kompakte Bauweise, anderseits wird hierdurch insbesondere im Fall, dass der zweite Schallerzeuger einen Film aus Carbon-Nanoröhren aufweist, die Mikrostruktur des thermoakustischen Wandlers optimal ausgenutzt, welche eine nahezu ungehinderte Propagation eines Schallsignals durch den Film hindurch erlaubt.Conveniently, in this case the second sound generator is arranged in the sound path between the first sound generator and the sound outlet. Under the sound path between the first sound generator and the sound output is in this case the primary - that is, as possible reflection-free way to understand - along which propagates a sound signal generated by the first sound generator to the sound output. On the one hand, such an arrangement allows a particularly compact design, on the other hand, in this case, in particular in the case where the second sound generator has a film of carbon nanotubes, the microstructure is thereby produced the thermoacoustic transducer is optimally utilized, which allows an almost unhindered propagation of a sound signal through the film.

Alternativ dazu ist der zweite Schallerzeuger bevorzugt seitlich zum Schallweg zwischen dem ersten Schallerzeuger und dem Schallausgang angeordnet. Die Auswahl der Positionierung des zweiten Schallerzeugers kann dabei insbesondere von seiner Dimensionierung und von den gewünschten individuellen spektralen Eigenschaften hinsichtlich der Wiedergabedynamik abhängig gemacht werden.Alternatively, the second sound generator is preferably arranged laterally to the sound path between the first sound generator and the sound outlet. The selection of the positioning of the second sound generator can be made dependent in particular on its dimensioning and on the desired individual spectral properties with regard to the reproduction dynamics.

In einer weiter vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der Erfindung umfasst das Hörgerät einen dritten Schallerzeuger, welcher dazu eingerichtet ist, ein Ausgangssignal der Signalverarbeitungseinheit in Schall umzuwandeln, wobei der dritte Schallerzeuger einen thermoakustischen Wandler umfasst. Insbesondere kann der dritte Schallerzeuger unterschiedlich zum zweiten Schallerzeuger sein, und insbesondere kann der dritte Schallerzeuger einen anderen Frequenzgang aufweisen als der zweite Schallerzeuger. Hierdurch kann die Klangqualität bei gleichbleibender Vibrationsunterdrückung weiter verbessert werden, da das erzeugbare Schallspektrum auf die einzelnen Schallerzeuger weiter ausdifferenziert werden kann.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the hearing device comprises a third sound generator, which is adapted to convert an output signal of the signal processing unit into sound, wherein the third sound generator comprises a thermoacoustic transducer. In particular, the third sound generator may be different from the second sound generator, and in particular, the third sound generator may have a different frequency response than the second sound generator. As a result, the sound quality with constant vibration suppression can be further improved because the producible sound spectrum can be further differentiated to the individual sound generator.

Zweckmäßigerweise umfasst das Hörgerät einen mit dem Gehäuse reversibel verbindbaren Schallleiter, welcher eine Anzahl an Signalanschlüssen aufweist, wobei der zweite Schallerzeuger und/oder der dritte Schallerzeuger im Schallleiter angeordnet ist, und wobei in verbundenem Zustand des Schallleiters mit dem Gehäuse über die Anzahl an Signalanschlüssen des Schallleiters eine Signalverbindung von der Signalverarbeitungseinheit zum zweiten bzw. dritten Schallerzeuger hergestellt ist. Über einen in einem Schallleiter angeordneten Schallerzeuger mit einem thermoakustischen Wandler lassen sich die spektralen Eigenschaften des Schallleiters zur Verbesserung der Wiedergabedynamik ausnutzen.Appropriately, the hearing aid comprises a reversibly connectable to the housing sound conductor, which has a number of signal terminals, wherein the second sound generator and / or the third sound generator is arranged in the sound conductor, and wherein in the connected state of the sound conductor with the housing on the number of signal terminals of the Sound conductor a signal connection from the signal processing unit to the second and third sound generator is made. About a sound conductor arranged in a sound generator with a thermoacoustic transducer, the spectral properties of the sound conductor can be used to improve the playback dynamics.

Nachfolgend wird ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung anhand einer Zeichnung näher erläutert. Hierbei zeigen jeweils schematisch:

FIG 1
in einer Schnittdarstellung ein Hörgerät mit einem konventionellen und einem thermoakustischen Wandler, und
FIG 2
in einer Schnittdarstellung das Hörgerät nach FIG 1 mit einer alternativen Anordnung des thermoakustischen Wandlers.
An embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing. Here are shown schematically in each case:
FIG. 1
in a sectional view of a hearing aid with a conventional and a thermoacoustic transducer, and
FIG. 2
in a sectional view of the hearing aid FIG. 1 with an alternative arrangement of the thermoacoustic transducer.

Einander entsprechende Teile und Größen sind in allen Figuren jeweils mit gleichen Bezugszeichen versehen.Corresponding parts and sizes are provided in all figures with the same reference numerals.

In FIG 1 ist in einer Schnittdarstellung schematisch ein Hörgerät 1 gezeigt, welches hier als ein Hörhilfegerät 2 ausgebildet ist. Das Hörgerät 1 umfasst ein Gehäuse 4, in welchem eine modulare Einheit 6 eingesetzt ist. Die modulare Einheit 6 weist ein Innengehäuse 8 auf, welches einen Schallraum 10 umgibt. Innerhalb des Innengehäuses 8 der modularen Einheit 6 ist ein erster Schallerzeuger 12 an einer dämpfenden Aufhängung 14 angeordnet. Der erste Schallerzeuger 12 ist hierbei als ein konventioneller, elektroakustischer Wandler ausgebildet. Weiter ist im Innengehäuse 8 der modularen Einheit 6 ein zweiter Schallerzeuger 16 angeordnet, welcher als ein thermoakustischer Wandler 18 ausgebildet ist. Der zweite Schallerzeuger 16 weist zwei Signalanschlüsse 20 und einen Film 22 aus Carbon-Nanoröhren auf.In FIG. 1 is shown in a sectional view schematically a hearing aid 1, which is designed here as a hearing aid 2. The hearing aid 1 comprises a housing 4, in which a modular unit 6 is inserted. The modular unit 6 has an inner housing 8, which surrounds a sound space 10. Within the inner housing 8 of the modular unit 6, a first sound generator 12 is arranged on a damping suspension 14. The first sound generator 12 is designed here as a conventional, electroacoustic transducer. Next, a second sound generator 16 is arranged in the inner housing 8 of the modular unit 6, which is designed as a thermoacoustic transducer 18. The second sound generator 16 has two signal terminals 20 and a film 22 of carbon nanotubes.

Für die Erzeugung eines Schallsignals ist zunächst im Innengehäuse 8 eine Signalweiche 24 mit einem Signaleingang 26 zum Empfang eines Ausgangssignals 28 einer Signalverarbeitungseinheit 30 angeordnet. Von einem Niederfrequenz-Ausgang 32 der Signalweiche 24 führt eine Niederfrequenz-Verbindung 34 zum ersten Schallerzeuger 12. Weiter weist die Signalweiche 24 einen Hochfrequenz-Ausgang 36 auf, von welchem jeweils Hochfrequenz-Verbindungen 38 zu den beiden Signalanschlüssen 20 des thermoakustischen Wandlers 18 führen. Das von der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 30 ausgegebene Ausgangssignal 28 wird in der Signalweiche 24 in einen niederfrequenten Anteil und einen hochfrequenten Anteil zerlegt.For generating a sound signal, a signal splitter 24 having a signal input 26 for receiving an output signal 28 of a signal processing unit 30 is first arranged in the inner housing 8. From a low-frequency output 32 of the signal splitter 24 performs a low-frequency connection 34 to the first sound generator 12. Further, the signal splitter 24 has a high-frequency output 36, from each of which high-frequency connections 38 to the two signal terminals 20 of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 lead. The output signal 28 output by the signal processing unit 30 is decomposed in the signal splitter 24 into a low-frequency component and a high-frequency component.

Der niederfrequente Anteil des Ausgangssignals 28 wird am Niederfrequenz-Ausgang 32 über die Niederfrequenz-Verbindung 34 an den ersten Schallerzeuger ausgegeben, und von diesem in Schall mit vorwiegend niedrigen Frequenzen umgewandelt. Der vom ersten Schallerzeuger 12 erzeugte Schall propagiert dabei vorwiegend im Schallraum 10 zu einem Schallausgang 40, wodurch ein Schallweg 44 gebildet wird. Der Schallausgang 40 weist dabei einen Gummistutzen 42 auf, auf welchen ein nicht näher dargestellter Schallleiter aufsetzbar ist, durch den der im Schallraum 10 erzeugte Schall zu einem weiteren Ohrpassstück und letztlich zum Benutzer des Hörgeräts weitergeleitet werden kann.The low-frequency component of the output signal 28 is output at the low-frequency output 32 via the low-frequency connection 34 to the first sound generator, and converted by the latter into sound with predominantly low frequencies. The sound generated by the first sound generator 12 propagates predominantly in the sound space 10 to a sound output 40, whereby a sound path 44 is formed. The sound output 40 in this case has a rubber nozzle 42, on which a not shown sound conductor can be placed, through which the sound generated in the sound space 10 can be forwarded to another earmold and ultimately to the user of the hearing aid.

Der hochfrequente Signalanteil des Ausgangssignals 28 wird am Hochfrequenz-Ausgang 36 über die jeweiligen Hochfrequenz-Verbindungen 38 zum thermoakustischen Wandler 18 ausgegeben, und von diesem in Schall mit vorwiegend hohen Frequenzen umgewandelt. Die Anordnung des thermoakustischen Wandlers 18 im Schallweg 44 des ersten Schallerzeugers 12 hat hierbei aufgrund der Mikrostruktur des Carbon-Nanoröhren-Films 22 keine nennenswerten Auswirkungen auf den Schall des ersten Schallerzeugers 12 und seine Propagation.The high-frequency signal component of the output signal 28 is output at the high-frequency output 36 via the respective high-frequency connections 38 to the thermoacoustic transducer 18, and converted by the latter into sound with predominantly high frequencies. The arrangement of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 in the sound path 44 of the first sound generator 12 has here due to the microstructure of the carbon nanotube film 22 no significant effect on the sound of the first sound generator 12 and its propagation.

Der erste Schallerzeuger 12 ist als elektroakustischer Wandler für eine leistungsstarke Schallerzeugung bis zu Frequenzen von 3 kHz ausgelegt, oberhalb dieser Frequenzen nimmt das Wiedergabe-Spektrum kontinuierlich bis zu einem vollständigen Cut-Off bei ca. 6-7 kHz ab. Der thermoakustische Wandler 18 ist für eine besonders leistungsstarke Schallerzeugung im Bereich von ca. 1 kHz bis 15 kHz ausgelegt. Bei der akustischen Auslegung der Wiedergabeleistung des thermoakustischen Wandlers 18 besteht eine gewisse Freiheit, wobei jedoch die Untergrenze - also die Frequenz, ab der der thermoakustische Wandler einen nennenswerten Schalldruck zu erzeugen vermag - für den Frequenzbereich so zu wählen ist, dass ein nennenswerter Überlapp mit dem Wiedergabe-Spektrum des ersten Schallerzeugers 12 gewährleistet ist, und die Obergrenze - ab welcher der erzeugbare Schalldruck abnimmt - vorrangig von den noch für die jeweilige Anwendung gewünschten und/oder erforderlichen Frequenzen abhängt.The first sound generator 12 is designed as an electroacoustic transducer for powerful sound generation up to frequencies of 3 kHz, above these frequencies, the playback spectrum decreases continuously to a complete cut-off at about 6-7 kHz. The thermoacoustic transducer 18 is designed for a particularly powerful sound generation in the range of about 1 kHz to 15 kHz. In the acoustic design of the playback performance of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 is a certain freedom, but the lower limit - ie the frequency from which the thermoacoustic Transducer can generate a significant sound pressure - is to choose the frequency range so that a significant overlap with the playback spectrum of the first sound generator 12 is ensured, and the upper limit - from which the producible sound pressure decreases - primarily of the still for the respective Application depends on desired and / or required frequencies.

Dadurch, dass das Ausgangssignal 28 durch die Signalweiche 24 in einen niederfrequenten Anteil und einen hochfrequenten Anteil aufgeteilt wird, welche jeweils von unterschiedlichen Schallerzeugern in Schall umgewandelt werden, können in der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 30 die Gains für entsprechende Frequenzbänder dahingehend optimiert werden, dass bei möglichst geringer Rückkopplung in ein in der Zeichnung nicht näher dargestelltes Mikrofon des Hörgeräts 1 eine möglichst dynamische Wiedergabe erzielt wird. Durch die dämpfende Aufhängung 14 des ersten Schallerzeugers 12 können zum einen mechanische Vibrationen des ersten Schallerzeugers teilweise aufgefangen werden. Der erste Schallerzeuger kann des Weiteren auf einen möglichst vibrationsarmen Betrieb im niederfrequenten Bereich optimiert werden.Characterized in that the output signal 28 is divided by the signal splitter 24 into a low-frequency component and a high-frequency component, which are each converted by different sound generators into sound, the gains for corresponding frequency bands can be optimized in the signal processing unit 30, that with the lowest possible feedback in a not shown in detail in the drawing microphone of the hearing aid 1 as dynamic a reproduction is achieved. Due to the damping suspension 14 of the first sound generator 12, on the one hand mechanical vibrations of the first sound generator can be partially absorbed. Furthermore, the first sound generator can be optimized for low-vibration operation in the low-frequency range.

Eine derartige Optimierung des Betriebs ist aufgrund der mechanischen Komplexität von typischerweise in einem Hörgerät eingesetzten Schallerzeugern meist nur für bestimmte, eingeschränkte Frequenzbänder möglich. Die Verwendung eines ersten Schallerzeugers 12 und eines zweiten Schallerzeugers 16 erlaubt nun einerseits, den ersten Schallerzeuger hinsichtlich seiner Wiedergabe- und Vibrationseigenschaften im niederfrequenten Bereich zu optimieren, und den zweiten Schallerzeuger für einen maximalen Gain in bestimmten höheren Frequenzbändern - z.B. im für die Sprachverständlichkeit relevanten Bereich von 2 kHz bis 4 kHz - zu optimieren.Due to the mechanical complexity of sound generators typically used in a hearing device, such an optimization of the operation is usually only possible for certain, restricted frequency bands. The use of a first sound generator 12 and a second sound generator 16 now on the one hand allows to optimize the first sound generator in terms of its low-frequency reproduction and vibration characteristics, and the second sound generator for maximum gain in certain higher frequency bands -. in the range of 2 kHz to 4 kHz relevant for speech intelligibility.

Die Anordnung eines zweiten Schallerzeugers 16 in einem Hörgerät 1 ist üblicherweise aus Platzgründen nicht realisierbar. Durch die Verwendung eines thermoakustischen Wandlers 18 ist dieser jedoch in Kombination mit einem konventionellen, elektroakustischen Wandler möglich, wie er im ersten Schallerzeuger 12 gegeben ist. Aufgrund der Mikrostruktur des Films 22 aus Carbon-Nanoröhren, welche einem feinen Gewebe gleicht, durch welches der Schall des ersten Schallerzeugers 12 propagieren kann, entstehen auch keine Einschränkungen für die Anordnung des thermoakustischen Wandlers 18 bzgl. des Schallwegs 44.The arrangement of a second sound generator 16 in a hearing aid 1 is usually not feasible for reasons of space. By the use of a thermoacoustic transducer 18th However, this is possible in combination with a conventional electroacoustic transducer, as given in the first sound generator 12. Due to the microstructure of the film 22 of carbon nanotubes, which is similar to a fine tissue through which the sound of the first sound generator 12 can propagate, there are no restrictions on the arrangement of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 with respect to the sound path 44.

In FIG 2 ist in einer Schnittdarstellung eine alternative Anordnung des thermoakustischen Wandlers 18 in einem Hörgerät 1 gezeigt, welches bis auf die Positionierung des thermoakustischen Wandlers 18 bereits in FIG 1 dargestellt ist. Der thermoakustische Wandler 18 ist hierbei nicht im Schallweg 44 des Schalls angeordnet, welcher vom ersten Schallerzeuger 12 zum Schallausgang 40 des Schallraums 10 propagiert, sondern seitlich und längs zum Schallweg 44. Die konkrete Auswahl der Anordnung kann dabei von der erforderlichen Dimensionierung des thermoakustischen Wandlers 18, insbesondere des Carbon-Nanoröhren-Films 22, abhängig gemacht werden, welche wiederum in Zusammenhang mit dem gewünschten optimalen Frequenzgang des zweiten Schallerzeugers 16 steht.In FIG. 2 is shown in a sectional view of an alternative arrangement of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 in a hearing aid 1, which up to the positioning of the thermoacoustic transducer 18 already in FIG. 1 is shown. The thermoacoustic transducer 18 is in this case not in the sound path 44 of the sound, which propagates from the first sound generator 12 to the sound output 40 of the sound chamber 10, but laterally and longitudinally to the sound path 44. The concrete selection of the arrangement can of the required dimensioning of the thermoacoustic transducer 18th , in particular the carbon nanotube film 22, which in turn is related to the desired optimum frequency response of the second sound generator 16.

Zur Vollständigkeit der Darstellung ist in FIG 2 ein Schallleiter 46 gezeigt, welcher an einem Ende einen Steckverbinder 48 aufweist. Der Steckverbinder 48 ist hierbei in den Gummistutzen 42 gesteckt, wodurch eine vibrationsgedämpfte mechanische Verbindung zwischen dem Hörgerät 1 und dem Schallleiter 46 hergestellt ist. Weiter weist der Schallleiter 46 einen Signalanschluss 50 und einen dritten Schallerzeuger 52 auf, welcher wie der zweite Schallerzeuger 16 ebenfalls als ein thermoakustischer Wandler 54 ausgebildet ist. Der Signalanschluss 50 ist hierbei mit dem thermoakustischen Wandler 54 verbunden, so dass über einen entsprechenden Kontakt-Pin am Gehäuse 4 des Hörgeräts bzw. am Innengehäuse 8 eine Signalverbindung 56 zwischen dem thermoakustischen Wandler 54 und der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 30 herstellbar ist.For completeness the representation is in FIG. 2 a sound conductor 46 is shown, which has a connector 48 at one end. The connector 48 is in this case inserted into the rubber nozzle 42, whereby a vibration-damped mechanical connection between the hearing aid 1 and the sound conductor 46 is made. Furthermore, the sound conductor 46 has a signal connection 50 and a third sound generator 52 which, like the second sound generator 16, is likewise designed as a thermoacoustic transducer 54. In this case, the signal connection 50 is connected to the thermoacoustic converter 54, so that a signal connection 56 between the thermoacoustic converter 54 and the signal processing unit 30 can be produced via a corresponding contact pin on the housing 4 of the hearing device or on the inner housing 8.

Alternativ zur in FIG 2 gezeigten Darstellung ist auch eine Anordnung des als thermoakustischer Wandler ausgebildeten zweiten Schallerzeugers im Schallleiter denkbar, und durch eine entsprechende Signalverbindung unmittelbar über Kontakt-Pins oder mittelbar - über einen Hochfrequenz-Ausgang einer Signalweiche - mit der Signalverarbeitungseinheit verbunden ist. Der erste Schallerzeuger im Gehäuse des Hörgeräts erzeugt hierbei vorrangig niederfrequenten Schall, welcher direkt in den Schallleiter propagiert. Dort wird für ein möglichst breitbandiges Signal Wandler der hochfrequente Schall durch den thermoakustischen Wandler "hinzugefügt".Alternatively to in FIG. 2 shown representation is also an arrangement of designed as a thermoacoustic transducer second sound generator in the sound conductor conceivable, and by a corresponding signal connection directly via contact pins or indirectly - via a high-frequency output of a signal switch - is connected to the signal processing unit. The first sound generator in the housing of the hearing device generates primarily low-frequency sound, which propagates directly into the sound conductor. There, the high-frequency sound is "added" by the thermoacoustic transducer for the widest possible signal converter.

Obwohl die Erfindung im Detail durch das bevorzugte Ausführungsbeispiel näher illustriert und beschrieben wurde, ist die Erfindung nicht durch dieses Ausführungsbeispiel eingeschränkt. Andere Variationen können vom Fachmann hieraus abgeleitet werden, ohne den Schutzumfang der Erfindung zu verlassen.Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail by the preferred embodiment, the invention is not limited by this embodiment. Other variations can be deduced therefrom by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

BezugszeichenlisteLIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

11
Hörgeräthearing Aid
22
Hörhilfegeräthearing aid
44
Gehäusecasing
66
modulare Einheitmodular unit
88th
Innengehäuseinner housing
1010
Schallraumsound chamber
1212
erster Schallerzeugerfirst sound generator
1414
dämpfende Aufhängungdamping suspension
1616
zweiter Schallerzeugersecond sound generator
1818
thermoakustischer Wandlerthermoacoustic transducer
2020
Signalanschlusssignal connector
2222
Film aus Karbon-NanoröhrenFilm made of carbon nanotubes
2424
Signalweichesignal splitter
2626
Signaleingangsignal input
2828
Ausgangssignaloutput
3030
SignalverarbeitungseinheitSignal processing unit
3232
Niederfrequenz-AusgangLow frequency output
3434
Niederfrequenz-VerbindungLow-frequency connection
3636
Hochfrequenz-AusgangRF output
3838
Hochfrequenz-VerbindungHigh-frequency connection
4040
Schallausgangsound output
4242
Gummistutzenrubber neck
4444
Schallwegsound path
4646
Schallleitersound conductor
4848
SteckverbinderConnectors
5050
Signalanschlusssignal connector
5252
dritter Schallerzeugerthird sound generator
5454
thermoakustischer Wandlerthermoacoustic transducer
5656
Signalverbindungsignal connection

Claims (11)

  1. Hearing device (1), particularly hearing aid (2), comprising a housing (4), a signal processing unit (30) arranged in the housing, a first sound generator (12) that is arranged in the housing (4) and a second sound generator (16), wherein the first sound generator (12) and the second sound generator (16) are each set up to convert an output signal (28) from the signal processing unit (30) into sound,
    and also additionally comprising a frequency filter (24) having a signal input (26), a low-frequency output (32) and a high-frequency output (36),
    wherein the signal input (26) connects the signal processing unit (30) to the frequency filter (24) for the purpose of supplying the output signal (28),
    and wherein
    - the low-frequency output (32) is connected to the first sound generator (12),
    - the high-frequency output (36) is connected to the second sound generator (16), and
    the first sound generator (12) comprises an electroacoustic transducer, which generates vibration energy during sound generation,
    characterized in that the second sound generator (16) comprises a thermoacoustic transducer (18), which generates no vibration energy during sound generation.
  2. Hearing device (1) according to Claim 1,
    wherein the thermoacoustic transducer (18) comprises a number of signal ports (20) and at least one film (22), each of which is connected to at least one signal port (20) and which is formed from carbon nanotubes, and
    wherein application of a signal voltage to the or each signal port (20) brings about time-variant heating in the or each film (22), which heating produces a sound by means of the thermoacoustic effect.
  3. Hearing device (1) according to Claim 1 or Claim 2,
    wherein the second sound generator (16) is arranged in the housing (4).
  4. Hearing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims,
    wherein the first sound generator (12) is designed such that it has a higher maximum reproduction level for frequencies in a frequency range up to 4 kHz than for frequencies above this frequency range.
  5. Hearing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the housing has an acoustic space (10) formed in it with a sound output (40),
    wherein the first sound generator (12) is set up to generate sound in the acoustic space (10), and
    wherein the second sound generator (16) is arranged in the acoustic space.
  6. Hearing device (1) according to Claim 5,
    wherein the second sound generator (16) is arranged in the sound path (44) between the first sound generator (12) and the sound output (40).
  7. Hearing device (1) according to Claim 5,
    wherein the second sound generator (16) is arranged to the side of the sound path (44) between the first sound generator (12) and the sound output (40).
  8. Hearing device according to one of the preceding claims,
    comprising a third sound generator (52) that is set up to convert an output signal (28) from the signal processing unit (30) into sound, wherein the third sound generator (52) comprises a thermoacoustic transducer (54).
  9. Hearing device according to one of the preceding claims,
    comprising a sound conductor (46) that is reversibly connectable to the housing (4) and that has a number of signal ports (50), wherein the second sound generator (16) is arranged in the sound conductor (46), and wherein in the state in which the sound conductor (46) is connected to the housing (4), the number of signal ports (50) of the sound conductor (46) produces a signal connection (56) from the signal processing unit (30) to the second sound generator (16) .
  10. Hearing device according to Claim 8, comprising a sound conductor (46) that is reversibly connectable to the housing (4) and that has a number of signal ports (50), wherein the third sound generator (52) is arranged in the sound conductor (46), and wherein in the state in which the sound conductor (46) is connected to the housing (4), the number of signal ports (50) of the sound conductor (46) produces a signal connection (56) from the signal processing unit (30) to the third sound generator (52).
  11. Hearing device according to Claim 8, comprising a sound conductor (46) that is reversibly connectable to the housing (4) and that has a number of signal ports (50), wherein the second sound generator (16) and the third sound generator (52) are arranged in the sound conductor (46), and wherein in the state in which the sound conductor (46) is connected to the housing (4), the number of signal ports (50) of the sound conductor (46) produces a signal connection (56) from the signal processing unit (30) to the second sound generator (16) and to the third sound generator (52).
EP16155817.6A 2015-03-19 2016-02-16 Hearing device, in particular hearing aid Active EP3070964B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102015204996 2015-03-19

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EP3070964A1 EP3070964A1 (en) 2016-09-21
EP3070964B1 true EP3070964B1 (en) 2019-04-17

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US (2) US9883293B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3070964B1 (en)
DK (1) DK3070964T3 (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US10244301B2 (en) 2016-10-27 2019-03-26 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Power management shell for ear-worn electronic device
WO2019139989A1 (en) * 2018-01-11 2019-07-18 Newtonoid Technologies, L.L.C. Thermal pads
CN113194897A (en) * 2019-03-18 2021-07-30 科利耳有限公司 Systems and methods for tinnitus suppression
DE102021206009B4 (en) * 2021-06-14 2024-08-08 Sivantos Pte. Ltd. Hearing aid
DE102021206011A1 (en) * 2021-06-14 2022-12-15 Sivantos Pte. Ltd. hearing device

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7844065B2 (en) * 2005-01-14 2010-11-30 Phonak Ag Hearing instrument
US8170249B2 (en) * 2006-06-19 2012-05-01 Sonion Nederland B.V. Hearing aid having two receivers each amplifying a different frequency range
DK2208367T3 (en) * 2007-10-12 2017-11-13 Earlens Corp Multifunction system and method for integrated listening and communication with noise cancellation and feedback management
US8068624B2 (en) * 2008-04-28 2011-11-29 Beijing Funate Innovation Technology Co., Ltd. Thermoacoustic device
DK2217006T3 (en) * 2009-02-04 2013-11-25 Oticon As A hearing aid
US9467761B2 (en) * 2014-06-27 2016-10-11 Apple Inc. In-ear earphone with articulating nozzle and integrated boot

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3070964A1 (en) 2016-09-21
DK3070964T3 (en) 2019-07-22
US20160277852A1 (en) 2016-09-22
US20180063650A1 (en) 2018-03-01
US9883293B2 (en) 2018-01-30
US10284967B2 (en) 2019-05-07

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