EP3750329A1

EP3750329A1 - Universal adapter for hearing aids and earphones

Info

Publication number: EP3750329A1
Application number: EP19709372.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Paul Gregor Junke
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-02-05
Filing date: 2019-02-04
Publication date: 2020-12-16
Also published as: AU2019214441B2; KR20200116969A; JP2021514597A; DE102018107195B3; CN111684821B; CN111684821A; AU2019214441A1; US20210076145A1; CA3090340A1; WO2019149947A1; JP7352576B2; US11218819B2

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of hearing aids and earphones. More precisely, the invention relates to a universal adapter for in-the-ear hearing aids and earphones. The universal adapter serves to introduce the sound of a hearing aid or an earphone in the auditory canal, wherein the adapter has trapezoidal hollow segments (5) which are arranged separately from one another along a centrally arranged locking nipple (2) with the radial side walls (15) thereof, said radial side walls decreasing from the dorsal to the proximal side and said locking nipple serving to receive a sound output connector of the hearing aid. By way of the proximal ends (14) of the abutment areas (1), the hollow segments (5) are connected to a proximal end (6) of the locking nipple (2). The adapter has the form of a truncated ellipsoid body. It independently adapts itself to the form of the auditory canal.

Description

Universal adapter for hearing aids and earphones

introduction

The invention relates to the field of hearing aids and earphones. More particularly, the invention relates to a universal adapter for ear-worn hearing aids and earphones.

State of the art and disadvantages

The present invention relates to a variety of anatomical conditions of the human ear canal automatically adapting adapter that can be used in most on the hearing aid market, to be worn on the ear hearing aids and meets the individual, audiological Erforderde nisse at a very high level of comfort.

Hearing aids are offered as HDO devices (devices to be worn behind the ear) and IOG (in-the-ear devices) in various designs and sizes from various manufacturers on the market. They mainly consist of microphone (s), amplifiers, speakers and the power supply. In the case of HDO devices, sound is injected into the ear canal either via a flexible sound tube or via an external loudspeaker ("receiver in the canal" / RIC) .The IOG has all the components installed in a custom-made hollow shell. Currently, IOGs are also available in standard housings, which are designed with a standardized sound outlet fitting plugged into a silicone dome, or with a custom made prosthesis prepared for this socket.

To initiate the amplified sound of a hearing aid in the external auditory canal in the supply in most cases for the ear to be supplied a Maßotoplastik / earpiece made of cast acrylic (polymethylmethacrylate / PMMA) or made under light-curing material, because this is a better fit for each individual anatomical shape of the ear canal of a hearing aid wearer and thereby provides a secure hold of the plastic in the ear canal. For this purpose, an impression with a two-component Silicone material (similar to a dental impression) created. The shape of the negative is today usually digitally captured by a 3-D scanner. Using the data, a blank is produced in a third-party company using laser technology and then reworked by hand, so that it receives its final finish. In a sound introduction by means of a sound tube, the fixation of the tube is done by gluing in the previously pierced Maßotoplastik. Any necessary ventilation holes (diameter = 0.6 - 0.8 mm) or holes, which allow a direct introduction of low-frequency sound events to the residual volume (volume between Maßotoplastik and eardrum) (diameter = 1.0 to 2.5 mm), are usually parallel introduced to the bore for the sound tube. A cerumen protection or a device that prevents the penetration of earwax into the sound outlet, are extremely rarely integrated into a Maßotoplastik when using the sound input through sound tubes. In many hearing aids, the miniature speakers are outsourced from the housing of the hearing aid and connected by a thin cable to the hearing aid. External loudspeakers ("receiver in the canal", RIC) require special holding devices for coupling to a Maßotoplastik, as known for example from the document DE 10 2006 004 033 Al, which must be incorporated into the plastic.

A renewal of the Maßotoplastik is required if age-related, or by increasing or decreasing the body weight, change the anatomical conditions in the ear canal.

Shield-shaped, mostly hemispherical, so-called "domes" made of soft silicone are currently used mostly for testing hearing aids.The thin-walled hemisphere is provided with perforations depending on the required sound transmission and thus suitable for a high-tone transmission, or closed for a broadband sound amplification These domes are offered manufacturer-specific by the hearing aid suppliers for their own products For the sound introduction by so-called "Small-Tubes" (relatively stiff thin tubes, outer diameter = 1.5 - 2 mm, inner diameter = 0.8 - 1.5 mm ) is the sound from the behind-ear device (HDO) on the thin tubes, which with the corresponding dome are directed into the ear canal. For external speakers (receiver in the canal, RIC), the domes are mounted directly on the speaker. The connection from the HDO device to the external loudspeaker is ensured by a thin cable (see, for example, EP 2 919 486 A1, US Pat. No. 7,660,905, US Pat. No. 7,681,577 B2). Some manufacturers offer domes for their own specific products (DE 10 2014 200 605 A1, EP 2 819 435 A1).

Product-specific silicone domes are offered by hearing aid manufacturers for external speakers developed by them. To anchor the external loudspeaker to the dome, a second component made of stronger material is injection molded in the dome. These domes generally have the same shapes and properties as are used for thin tubes (eg, documents DE 10 2014 200 605 A1, EP 1 995 991 A2, US 8 290 187 B2, DE 10 2011 006 720 A1, US Pat 174 A, US 2008/0 298 618 A1, WO 2001/069 971 A2, EP 2 819 435 A1).

Other, mostly older, developments are intended for the use of in-ear devices whose standardized, proximal end is to be introduced into the auditory canal with the dome developed for this purpose (eg documents EP 2 180 724 A1, US 2008/0 019 549 A1 US 368 309 S, EP 0 173 371 A1, US 5 742 692 A, WO 1993/025 053 A1, US 5 748 743 A, EP 0 040 259 A1, EP 1 521 498 A2, DE 199 08 854 CI, US Pat 8 693 719 B2, US 2011/0 223 864 A1).

Consumer electronics silicone domes (for earphones) are typically designed for use with product-specific speakers ("ear-phones.") Ear-phones in the entertainment industry typically have a larger sound outlet with a special neck that couples to produce it Relevant prior art can be found, for example, in the publications US 2010/0 166 241 A1, US Pat. No. 7,116,793 B2, DE 10 2013 203 784 A1, US Pat. No. 8,189,846 B2, US Pat. No. 6,111,929, US 2014/0 138 US-A-3 037 749 A1, US-A-0/0145479 Al, US-A-2013/0163803-A1, US-A-2015/049897-A, KR 10 2016 001 108 A1, US-A-7,681,577. Domes, which are used in medical technology for stethoscopes or examination devices such as tympanometers or similar devices, are designed primarily to close the ear canals of the examiner or the examined person. They are usually applied externally to the ear canal opening (see, for example, pamphlets US Pat. No. 7,664,282 B2; US Pat. No. 4,055,233 A; US Pat. No. 6,473,513 B1). For measurements by inserted probe into the ear canal manufacturers offer special domes (see, for example, publication US 6 253 871 Bl).

To make a Maßotoplastik the customer must be invited to at least two appointments. In about 30% -40% of all restorations with custom made implants, customers complain of a poor fit, formation of moisture, an unpleasant sound, or even a feeling of pressure. It is a post-processing or even a new production required. Often, more than two customer appointments are needed.

A protection against the penetration of cerumen (earwax) is rarely incorporated into a Maßotoplastik.

A problem that occurs in many cases is the so-called occlusion effect (closure effect). This leads to the fact that the low-frequency parts of one's own voice do not come out / flow out, as with an open auditory canal.

Frequencies reflected by the eardrum can lead to interference phenomena, with the frequencies emitted by the sound emission of the ear mold, and thus to phenomena such as reverberation, or a "wobble" of the sound, because the position of the sound exit in the auditory canal, and thus the distance to the eardrum, by the anatomical However, depending on the diameter and length of the ventilation bore, there is a risk of the occurrence of feedback, as a result of the modification of the plastic, a different position of the sound outlet, or the attachment of a ventilation bore can be brought about.

These circumstances, in addition to the already high costs for a Maßotoplastik cause additional costs through rework and new production, which must bear the company. More than 50% of customers find wearing a Maßotoplastik rather uncomfortable. It usually needs to be replaced after about 1.5 - 2 years wearing time. This in turn results in high costs.

Many customers feel a permanent tickling or even scratching when using Domes and feel insecure because they easily slip out of the ear canal. Domes are offered in different sizes (diameters), but usually with a fixed, unchanging extent within the manufacturing dimensions.

Although silicone domes in the so-called "Tulip" shape (see, for example, EP 2 919 486 A1, FIG. 48, US 2005/0244026 A1) have a variable diameter or circumference, have in the ear canal, because of the very flexible wall thickness of 0.3 mm, but only slight support and itching or tickling the wearer Especially chewing movements irritate the ear canal skin The Tulip form is mainly used for the introduction of broadband sound amplifications.

Since the proximal end, that is, the eardrum facing end usually has a flat, located perpendicular to the sound outlet opening, often arise occlusion effects and interference, as described above.

One of the major problems arises from the fact that nearly all auditory canals directly after the entrance have a kink with an isthmus (constriction) located at this point. It is not uncommon for domes with a fixed circumference to hang there when pulled out and remain in the ear canal, making it necessary to visit an ear, nose and throat specialist to have the dome removed.

However, one of the major disadvantages of commercially available silicone domes is that no dome adapts exactly to the very individual anatomical conditions of the ear canal. Most silicone domes are circular at the dorsal end, ie towards the auditory canal exit. However, there are no circular ear canals in nature. When choosing a dome with a larger diameter, the flexible material folds due to its thin walls of 0.3 - 5 mm at the dorsal end into the interior of the circumference. The resulting, more acute, dorsal ends adjacent to the ear canal lead to the itching and scratching described above. The choice of a smaller silicone dome usually also leads to tickling, as this is not in the ear canal is fixed. Chewing movements intensify these effects, as during chewing movements the ear canal is moved by the jaw bone below.

Are known to hedge against slipping out of the dome from the ear canal to thin tubes attached fine, made of PVC supporting devices, which are inserted in the large concha (Cavum conchae). This support also causes tickling, is not easy for elderly hearing aid users to use, and is therefore often rejected. External loudspeakers use support devices for manufacturer-specific products.

Although some silicone domes offer a certain variability, but in their application are very complicated and difficult to use by the hearing aid wearer. Two-piece products made of silicone are generally not suitable for older hearing aid users. Regarding hygiene and automatic replacement of the dome, these target groups are overwhelmed.

The setting of the opening for ventilation, up to the open sound introduction for the low sound content, is very difficult for the wearer. Smallest changes in the opening cross-sections cause significant frequency changes in the supply of amplified sound (see, for example, DE 10 2010 042 150 Al).

In order to solve the problem of the anatomical adaptation of a dome in an auditory canal with a standard system, products have also been developed which inflate an air cushion by inflating or by metallic spring mechanisms allow nestling to the ear canal skin. These domes can only be conditionally provided with frequency-influencing openings. Due to the kink present in almost all auditory canals with the usual subsequent expansion, the air in the system with air cushion must be drained, and be re-inflated when re-use by the user (DE 43 39 899 Al). Metallic spring systems in a dome system can only ever act punctually, at the location of maximum expansion; whether by temperature change (described in document US 2007/018 3613 Al) or more annularly arranged suspensions. A spring-back system makes positioning in the ear canal more difficult (see document DE 43 39 899 A1). These domes also have a round Form, the problems described above in inserting and pulling in and out of the ear canal also occur here.

The characteristics and problems of the domes for external loudspeakers are almost identical to those already described above for the thin-tube domes.

Silicone domes, such as those used in consumer electronics or medical technology, are not suitable for the use of external earphones for hearing systems. These domes do not have a suitable coupling possibility.

Object of the invention and solution

The invention is therefore based on the object to provide an adapter for hearing aids and earphones, which avoids the disadvantages of the prior art.

Accordingly, the adapter should reduce the burden of customization of hearing aids and earphones to the wearer. The seat in the ear canal should be improved, and unpleasant sensations such as tickling or scratching should be avoided. The adapter should respond well-natured to changes in the geometry of the ear canal. The adapter should be suitable for in-the-ear devices, for behind-the-ear devices with receiver-in-the-canal, as well as for earphones from consumer electronics. A cerumen protection should be easy to integrate. The adapter is intended to reduce the occurrence of an "occlusion effect." It should also respond to the presence of a constriction in the auditory canal, as well as the non-circular cross-sectional shape of the ear canal.The application of the adapter should be as simple as possible, and the adapter should solve the problem of difficulty reduce the correct setting of a ventilation opening.

The problems are solved by the features of the invention listed in claim 1. By the present invention of this novel adapter, the amplified sound from almost any hearing aid on the market can be passed through its special shape and texture immediately in the anatomically individually shaped human ear canal. By means of one of the features of claim 12 comprehensive inter-adapter earphones in the entertainment industry with the features of claim 1 comprehensive universal adapter can be coupled.

Advantageous embodiments are given in the dependent claims, the following description and the figures.

description

The invention relates to a universal adapter comprising a flexible material, for introducing the amplified sound of a hearing aid or earphone in the individually shaped human ear canal.

By "flexible material" is meant in the present case a plastic, in particular elastomers having a Shore hardness of 20-100 Shore A, which elastically deforms sufficiently far under the pressure which typically occurs in use, and returns to its original shape after use Adapter, or adapter for short, can also be combined with a non-flexible, essentially solid material as defined above, for example for creating a solid core or a region intended for handling (eg a grip piece).

The terms "hearing aid" and "earphone" are broadly defined and include all areas mentioned above, as well as all areas not mentioned in which are inserted into the ear canal, these essentially occlusive elements are needed, not only in the sound introduction, but for example also with sound insulation.

The adapter according to the invention comprises a plurality of said flexible material existing trapezoidal hollow segments, short segments, which, separated from each other, with their radially from the dorsal (ie facing away from the body) to the proximal (ie the body facing) side decreasing side walls along a centrally arranged, optionally made of (the same or another) flexible or solid material locking nipple are arranged, which serves for receiving a Schallausgangsstutzens the hearing aid. "Trapezoidal" here refers to the cross section seen in the longitudinal direction (dorsal-proximal).

Furthermore, the hollow segments are connected to the proximal, narrow ends of their contact surfaces at a proximal end of the locking nipple, wherein the adapter has the form of a shortened ellipsoidal body, so that the same automatically by the restoring force of the elastic side walls with its contact surfaces of the shape of the ear canal optimally is customizable.

An inventively ausgestalteter adapter avoids the known from the prior art disadvantages. In particular, the adapter reduces the effort in the individual adaptation of hearing aids and earphones to the wearer and can be produced as a cost-effective series product.

As will be explained in detail below, the seat in the ear canal is significantly improved, the adapter automatically adapts to the given anatomical conditions of the ear canal at the time of insertion, where it can be fixed without pressure due to its high flexibility. In conjunction with its flexible applicability, it can replace a large number of well-known silicone domes from various manufacturers, thereby reducing the time spent on inventory management and procurement in the audiologist's shop, because of its very small assortment of different diameters of this silicone adapter needed.

Due to its inventive shape and flexibility, the risk of getting stuck when pulling out of the ear canal is very low. Unpleasant sensations such as tickling or scratching are largely avoided, even when chewing. The adapter reacts good-naturedly to changes in the geometry of the ear canal.

It is, as explained below, suitable both for in-ear devices, for behind-the-ear devices with Receiver-in-the-Canal, as well as for earphones from consumer electronics.

Even a cerumen protection can be easily integrated. The adapter also reduces the occurrence of an "occlusion effect." He In addition, it responds good-naturedly to the presence of a constriction in the ear canal, as well as the non-circular cross-sectional shape of the ear canal.

The application of the adapter is particularly simple requires no special skill of the user and can be done without prior knowledge. The adapter is also replaceable in a simple manner and without the assistance of a specialist.

Finally, the adapter reduces the problem of difficulty in properly adjusting a vent, as will be shown.

In the following, various embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail.

The number of trapezoidal hollow segments is preferably four. In other embodiments, it is two or three, or more than four, for example, five or six.

According to one embodiment of the universal adapter, the contact surfaces of two adjacent segments run from the proximal to the dorsal end of the adapter very close (for example, 0 to 0.5 mm) and parallel to each other, wherein the side wall of a segment, a first, located on the outer edge, narrow Kink into the interior of the segment has. The adjoining this first kink sidewall (in a sectional view) therefore no longer exactly in the radial direction.

Optionally, the segment preferably has a radial elevation relative to the adjacent segment. Thus, the range of this increase has a slightly greater distance / radius to the centrally arranged longitudinal axis than in the case without the increase.

A likewise located on the outer edge, narrow kink of the adjacent, "sliding" segment side pushes at an annular pressure from the outside in the direction of another kink of the receiving segment side, in the direction of which, starting from the first kink, tends.

The then shifted kinks of the two segments form a closure in a rest position (outside the ear canal) parallel running Anlegeflachen, so that in the configuration of all segments according to this specification when inserting the adapter into the ear canal due to the small distance between the side walls at the proximal ends thereof to each other at least a minimum ventilation of the remaining volume between the adapter and the ear canal or the outside world with the Eardrum is guaranteed.

According to a further embodiment, in which all the segments as described above (ie having kinks) and are arranged radially to the locking nipple, the segments from the dorsal to the proximal end at a distance from each other, which when inserted into an ear canal, a something smaller cross-section than the adapter has reduced. In this case, the curved, in an elliptical arc section (seen in the longitudinal axial direction) parallel creases of the adjacent segments come closer, which are formed by the curved side walls of the segments continuous, extending from the dorsal to the proximal end of the adapter channels. The number of channels corresponds to the number of the said distance to each other on the ironing similar segments. In addition to the desired sound introduction through the locking nipple, these channels also allow lower-frequency sound components to enter the ear canal in a natural or normal way.

According to another embodiment, two segments form a channel by means of the spaced-apart, mutually facing side walls configured as described last, while the side walls of the other segments formed according to the embodiment described above form a closure, whereby only one channel is available, As a result, only frequencies below about 800 Hz pass naturally through this channel to the eardrum.

According to another embodiment, the adapter has two such channels and two closures due to correspondingly shaped segments. Thus, in the case of four segments, two identical segments each are rotated 180 ° relative to each other. According to this embodiment, two channels are provided for sound transmission such that frequencies below about 1 KHz pass through these two available channels naturally reach the eardrum.

According to a further embodiment, the adapter has two segments, which form a closure by means of two mutually facing side walls, while the described distance to one another exists between the other side walls of the segments, whereby three channels are available, and frequencies below about 1.5. 1.8 KHz through these channels naturally reach the eardrum.

The number of segments determines the possible number and maximum size of the channels. By the number of segments and simple variation of the side walls, the number of channels can be varied, resulting in a different transmission characteristic for the sound. Thus, the adapter reproducibly allows the acoustically intended, correct introduction of the amplified sound from the hearing aid into the ear canal, and it meets the audiological conditions with respect to ventilation openings or openings of different sizes for the natural introduction of frequencies in the mid and low frequencies.

According to one embodiment, the segments are arranged symmetrically about the longitudinal axis of the locking nipple in that, from the proximal view, at least the outer edges of the side walls of the segments run at least substantially on a straight line from the locking nip to the contact surface. Alternatively, the side walls also extend in the area behind the outer edges in this way, so that straight side walls are present, or they are shaped differently there, for example, according to the above-described embodiment with further kink.

According to a further embodiment, all segments are arranged spirally around the longitudinal axis of the locking nipple from the dorsal to the proximal end of the adapter. Accordingly, the said outer edges each present as lying on a spiral path. The areas behind it can be in the same direction on the same path, or they can be further or less "twisted".

Even existing channels can follow said spiral shape. According to a further embodiment of the universal adapter, the centrally arranged locking nipple is designed as a rigid plastic element which serves for receiving the sound outlet opening of external loudspeakers of conventional hearing aids to be worn behind the ear.

According to another embodiment of the locking nipple comprises this element as a second component, which is either used separately, or in the secure composite (two-component system) is present.

According to an embodiment that can be combined with all other embodiments, at the proximal end of the adapter an arcuate cerumen guard that is easy to clean covers the sound exit opening. This is particularly preferably formed integrally with the rest of the adapter, but can also be designed interchangeable.

According to an embodiment of the adapter, at least two segments overlap when introduced into the ear canal in the region of the outer edge and create a closure in that they have two side walls offset into the interior of the segment. The abutment surfaces continue to retain the original size, that is, the distance of the outer surface of the adapter from the longitudinal axis remains substantially the same.

Due to the overlap, the outer wall of one segment slides over that of the adjacent segment rather than forming a recess, as is known in the art, which then naturally forms a region of lesser distance from the longitudinal axis. Such an area is then no longer on the wall of the ear canal, which can lead to a deterioration of the holding properties and possibly unwanted passage of sound.

According to a further embodiment, the adapter for coupling ear speakers, in particular consumer electronics, comprises an anatomically shaped intermediate adapter. Said ear speakers have proximal most of a dome-like shape. The intermediate adapter comprises a solid material consisting of sound outlet nozzle, which is plugged into a receiving opening of the locking nipple and optionally has a kink. In this way, a detachable connection of the Intermediate adapter provided to the rest of the adapter. The intermediate adapter also includes a holding area with clamping edge for the earphone. The sound transmission can thus be passed comfortably and without pressure into the auditory canal by an ear speaker, which can be clamped in the preferably flexible clamping edge of the intermediate adapter. Thus, ear speakers of the entertainment industry can be used by means of the present invention anatomically shaped adapter adapter with better acoustics and significantly improved comfort.

Instead of the flexible clamping edge and hooks or the like may be provided which behind the earphone and secure it to the dorsal end of the intermediate adapter. A magnetic holder is also possible, if said end consists of or comprises a material which develops attractive forces when approached with the magnet of the earphone.

According to a further embodiment, the intermediate adapter consists of or comprises a two-component material. Preferably, the sound outlet nozzle is made of a solid plastic, and the clamping edge made of a flexible plastic.

figure description

The invention will be explained by way of example by way of example. It shows

Figure 1 shows a cross section through an embodiment of the adapter; Figure 2 is a perspective outside view of this adapter;

FIG. 3 shows a longitudinal axial plan view from the dorsal direction on this

Adapter;

FIG. 4 shows a longitudinal axial plan view from the proximal direction on this adapter;

FIG. 5 shows a longitudinal axial plan view from the dorsal direction on a

Adapter with two channels for sound;

FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal axial plan view from the dorsal direction on a

Adapter with four channels for sound; FIG. 7 shows a longitudinal axial plan view from the dorsal direction on an adapter located in the auditory canal;

FIG. 8 shows an adapter inserted into the auditory canal;

FIG. 9 shows an adapter connected to an external loudspeaker;

FIG. 10 shows an adapter connected to a thin tube;

FIG. 11 shows an adapter connected to an in-ear device;

FIG. 12 shows an adapter connected to a behind-the-ear device;

Figure 13 arranged an adapter with spirally twisted

Segments;

Figure 14 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the adapter with a fixed core (socket) for connecting an external loudspeaker;

Figure 15 is a longitudinal axial view of the socket like. Fig. 14 as a single

Component;

Figure 16 is a sectional view of the embodiment like. FIG. 14 with connected external loudspeaker; FIG.

FIG. 17 shows an adapter with an offset of adjacent side walls; Figure 18 shows an intermediate adapter for combining the adapter with a

Ear speakers of the entertainment industry;

Figure 19 is a sectional view of the intermediate adapter;

Figure 20 is the sectional view of the intermediate adapter with connected

Adapter;

Figure 21 is the sectional view of Figure 21 with inserted into the ear canal adapter.

The adapter (FIG. 1, FIG. 2) is preferably made of silicone, with a hardness of 20-100 Shore A, or / and of a two-component system (2K system), which locks a commercially available external loudspeaker 20 with special sound outlet port allows (Fig. 16). It is possible that the fixed, integrated in the adapter component 24 for locking current or future developments is configurable. The adapter has the shape of a slightly more than half the length - transverse to the longitudinal direction in the image horizontally extending ellipsoidal body (see Fig. 2).

From the proximal end (left in the picture) to about half the length of the ellipsoidal body is in the middle in the longitudinal direction a tubular locking nipple 2, s. Fig. 1, Fig. 9 - 12, arranged to the

Recording the sound outlet of various hearing aids is used (not shown throughout). Inside the locking nipple 2 several querschnittsverengende rings (without reference numerals) are arranged, which ensure a locking of the sound outlet of hearing aids, so that the adapter does not get stuck in the ear canal when pulling out, but only with slightly increased effort from

Sound outlet can be pulled (Fig. 1). The dorsal end of the locking nipple 2 (pictured right) may have a conically inwardly directed recess 3 (receiving opening of the sound outlet nozzle 3, Fig. 1) for better introduction of the usually provided with a larger cross-section sound outlet nozzle of the external speakers and thin hoses.

The proximal end of the locking nipple 2 forms the sound outlet opening for the amplified sound; In the present case, it is covered with a semicircular cover for protection against cerumen (earwax) (wax protection 4, FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 4).

Two or more, in the illustrated embodiment, four or four hollow "segments" 5 are arranged on the locking nipple 2 around it (Figures 2-7, 13, 17) .These segments 5 have - from the dorsal end 3 to 7), whose shorter side is close to the center and whose longer side is circumferentially arranged It is clear that, due to the rounded shape of the adapter, said sides are in fact preferably in the illustrated arch shape.

The radially adjoining the locking nipple 2 side walls 15 (Fig. 5, reference numerals omitted in the other figures) are connected from the proximal to the dorsal end along the locking nipple 2 with him (connecting portion of the side walls of the locking nipple 12, Fig. 1 and 3). Radially to the edge of the contact surface 1, Fig. 1, 2, 4, 13th and 17, they widen from the proximal end 6 of the locking nipple 2 to the level of the distance between the contact surface 1 directed towards the auditory canal wall and the locking nipple 2 at the dorsal end of the adapter (Fig. 1), whereby said ellipsoidal shape is produced. The outward (dorsally) directed completion of the side walls 15 (Figure 1: to the right in the image) preferably extends obliquely from the dorsal end of the locking nipple to the dorsal end of the contact surfaces 13, resulting in a "funnel shape" results (Figs , 9-12, 14, 16).

The segments 5 may have side walls 15 extending radially outward on a straight line. According to another embodiment, the segments 5 are arranged spirally around the longitudinal axis of the locking nipple 2 from the dorsal to the proximal end of the adapter (FIG. 13).

The outer, broad sides of the trapezoidal segment 5 and the contact surfaces 1 are bent like a circular cutout 13 (FIG. 2, FIG. 17). At the proximal end 6 of the locking nipple 2, the outer contact surface 1 tilts in an elliptical arcuate section and forms a curvature. In this case, the width of the outer contact surface 1 is reduced in a wedge shape to the extent and level of the side walls 15 which attach to the proximal end 6 of the locking nipple 2 up to the proximal end of the contact surface 14 (FIG. 2).

The ellipsoidal shape of the adapter is created by the segments 5 arranged around the locking nipple 2 (see Figures 2, 3, 5, 6, 13, 17).

The dorsally located ends 13 of the contact surfaces 1 are curved into the interior of the trapezoidal segments 5. The resulting reduction in the overall cross section (reduced cross section 11, FIG. 1 and FIG. 3) prevents skin irritation when the adapter is pulled out of the auditory canal.

The radial side walls 15 of the trapezoidal hollow segments 5 connected from the dorsal to the proximal end with the locking nipple 2 can each be arched on one or both sides into the interior of the segment 5 (curved radial side walls of the segments 15, FIG. 5). This creates a continuous from the dorsal to the proximal end Channel 16, Fig. 5, Fig. 6. This channel 16 is used for ventilation and the transmission of lower frequencies to the eardrum. For example, two (FIG. 5) or four (FIG. 6) channels 16 may be provided.

The segments 5 can also be arranged at a distance 17 from one another along the outer elliptical arc section (FIG. 6). This distance 17 allows a further reduction of the entire cross-section during insertion of the adapter into the auditory canal, whereby the adapter without further modification for different sized auditory canals is suitable (Fig. 7).

For a supply of a hearing aid that provides wideband amplification, i. all frequencies included in the speech spectrum, the adapter should allow venting of the residual volume in front of the eardrum. For this purpose, and thus covering all areas between an open and only to be equipped with a ventilation hearing aid adjustment, one or more segments according to the invention can be configured in a simple manner so that the appropriate audiological need is met. The differences can be seen by FIGS. 3, 5 and 6. The embodiment shown in Figure 3 therefore has no additional channels; According to the embodiment in Fig. 5, two, and according to the embodiment in Fig. 6, four channels may be provided.

According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, each two adjacent segments 5 lean closely against each other. However, in each case on one of the two segments 5, the radial side wall facing the corresponding adjacent segment 5 protrudes somewhat beyond that of the adjacent segment 5 (radial elevation 9, FIG. 3). When the adapter is introduced into the auditory canal, it serves as the guide for the segment 5 having the elevation 9 via the adjacent segment 5.

Of the existing according to the embodiment shown, tight-fitting, narrow bend 9 of the adjacent segment 5 facing side (Fig. 3), the side wall 15 tilts to a second bend 10 into the interior of the segment 5, from which the side wall 15 in a light Arch to Arretierungsnippel 2 runs. From the dorsal to the proximal end, the width of this indentation, due to the arcuate, elliptical shape, decreases. The thus formed recess of the side surface 15 provides the adjacent counter segment 5 space, so that this - under external pressure, or when inserted into an ear canal - with its running from the proximal to the dorsal end tight bend 18 the depression having segment 5 can ( Fig. 7). Both segments 5 thus form a closure over the length of the previously existing contact between the two segments 5. The side walls 15 have at the proximal end a very small distance of, for example, 0.1 mm to 1.0 mm, and preferably of 0.3 mm to each other. In the case of the "closed" adapter, this distance causes a minimum ventilation 8, Fig. 4, Fig. 13, which prevents an air-impermeable closure of the auditory canal in the form of a longitudinal-axial channel.This form of the adapter is designed in particular for a higher amplifying, broadband sound transmission.

If the adapter is introduced into an auditory canal, the abutment surfaces 1 are pressed gently against the auditory canal wall 19 radially outwardly by the restoring force of the side walls 15 of the segments 5 (FIG. 7).

Depending on the arrangement of the various segments 5, the required adapter - corresponding to the audiological requirements - can close the auditory canal (FIG. 3), aerate (FIG. 4), or be used for the uninfluenced introduction of different, low - frequency sound components (FIGS 5, 6).

The design of the adapter allows it to self-adjust to the appropriate shape of the human ear canal, whether oval, round or irregular, even with a pronounced isthmus (Figure 8).

In the locking nipple 2 most sound outlet fittings of different types of hearing aids are insertable, such. External loudspeaker 20 (Figure 9), thin tube 21 (Figure 10), in-ear devices 22 (Figure 11), normal tube 23 for behind-the-ear devices (Figure 12).

Likewise, the sound output port 28 of the intermediate adapter shown in Fig. 18 may be inserted into the ear canal 19 to optimize the sound output of ear entertainment speakers 32 from the entertainment industry into the ear canal 19 (Figure 21). The shape of the adapter is anatomical to the kinking shape of the human ear canal aligned (Fig. 21). The intermediate adapter is preferably made of a two-component material. While the sound outlet port 28 is made of solid material, the clamping edge 31 for receiving the ear speaker 32 made of flexible material.

By a locking nipple, which is in the form of a solid plastic such as polyamide or a material of similar strength existing, molded or molded socket 24, Fig. 15, in particular external speakers 25, which are equipped with detents, according to individual manufacturer specifications especially are also connected to the two-component adapter (Fig. 16). According to an embodiment not shown from the locking nipple is designed in two parts and includes said sleeve 24 which is inserted or injected into a receptacle of the main part.

By maintaining the dimension of the contact surfaces 1, projections can be provided in the interior of the segments 5 by an offset of the radially arranged side walls (offset sidewalls 26, FIG. 17), which each form an overlap 27 when the adapter is inserted into an auditory canal, and thus a closure produce. Depending on the number of offset sidewalls 26, the adapter closes the auditory canal for the introduction of sound higher to amplifying, widebandigerer sounds, with possibly only a minimum ventilation 8 is ensured (see Fig. 4). For the audiologically required, natural transmission of low-frequency sound components, the remaining, each opposite side walls 15 adjacent segments 5 can be arranged so that they, as described above, one or more continuous channels 16 form. The offset may relate to adjacent sidewalls 15, 26, as shown in FIG. 17, or clockwise, always relating to, eg, the first sidewall 26 of each segment 5 (similar to FIGS. 3, 7). Also, only a single segment 5 may have said offset sidewall 26. Several or all segments 5 may have one or even two offset side walls 26. This embodiment can be combined with all previously described embodiments. Refer to the list of signs

1 contact surface

2 locking nipples

3 intake opening for sound outlet, div. HG, recess

4 cerumen protection

5 Trapezoidal hollow segment, segment

6 Proximal end of the locking nipple

7 sound outlet

8 Minimal ventilation

9 Radial elevation, narrow crease on receiving segment side, tight crease

10 Second kink placed on the segment on the receiving segment side, kink

11 reduced cross section

12 Connection area of the side walls on the locking nipple

13 circle cutout, dorsal end of the contact surface

14 proximal end of the contact surface

15 Curved radial sidewalls of the segments, sidewalls

16 channel for transmission of lower frequencies, channel

17 Distance between segments for ventilation or frequency transmission, distance

18 kink of the underlying segment side

19 ear canal

20 external speakers

21 thin tube

22 in-ear device

23 normal hose

24 plastic bushing, component, bushing

25 external handset, external loudspeaker

26 offset side wall

27 overlap

28 sound outlet

29 flexible receptacle for ear speakers

30 sound receiving opening, receiving opening

31 flexible clamping edge, clamping edge

32 ear speakers (entertainment industry)

Claims

claims

A universal adapter comprising a flexible material for inducing amplified sound of a hearing aid or earphone into the custom human ear canal, the adapter having a plurality of trapezoidal hollow segments (5) separated from each other with their radially from the dorsal to the proximal Side of decreasing side walls (15), along a centrally disposed locking nipple (2) are arranged, which serves for receiving a Schallausgangsstutzens the hearing aid, and wherein the hollow segments (5) further with the proximal, narrow ends (14) of the contact surfaces (1) a proximal end (6) of the locking nipple (2) are connected, wherein the adapter has the form of a shortened ellipsoidal body, so that the same automatically by the restoring force of the elastic

Side walls (15) with its contact surfaces (1) of the shape of the ear canal is optimally adaptable.

2. Adapter according to claim 1, wherein the number of trapezoidal

Hollow segments (5) is preferably four.

3. Universal adapter according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the contact surfaces (1) of two adjacent segments (5) from the proximal to the dorsal end of the adapter are very close and parallel, wherein the side wall (15) of a segment (5 ) has a narrow kink (9) inside the segment (5), and with respect to the adjacent segment (5) has a radial increase (9), whereby a kink (18) of the adjacent, under sliding segment side at an annular pressure of on the outside in the direction of the bend (10) of the receiving segment side pushes, and then the one above the other shifted kinks (9, 18) of the segments

(5) form a closure of the resting in a rest position abutment surfaces (1), so that in the configuration of all segments (5) according to this specification when inserting the adapter into the ear canal due to the small distance of the side walls at the proximal ends thereof to each other at least a minimum ventilation (8) of the residual volume between the adapter and the eardrum is ensured.

4. Universal adapter according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein all

Segments (5) according to claim 3 are formed and arranged radially, wherein they have a distance (17) from the dorsal to the proximal end, which decreases when inserted into an ear canal (19) with a slightly smaller cross-section than that of the universal adapter, wherein the curved, in an elliptical arc cutout parallel creases (9, 18) of the adjacent segments (5) come closer, whereby by means of the curved side walls (15) of the segments (5) according to the number of similar segments (5) continuous, from dorsal to the proximal end of the adapter extending channels (16) are formed, which in addition to the desired sound introduction through the Arretie approximately nipple (2) also lower-frequency sound components in the ear canal (19) can pass.

5. Universal adapter according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that two segments (5) by means of the mutually facing according to claim 4 side walls (15) form a channel (16), while the side walls (15) of the other, according to Claim 3 designed segments (5) form a closure, whereby only one channel (16) is available, whereby only frequencies below about 800 Hz pass through this channel (16) in a natural way to the eardrum.

6. Universal adapter according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that two configured according to claim 4 segments (5) through the mutually facing side walls (15) form a channel (16), while the side walls (15) of the other, according to claim 3 designed segments (5) form a closure, whereby in this construct two channels (16) are available, and reach frequencies below about 1 KHz through these two available channels (16) in a natural way to the eardrum.

7. Universal adapter according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that two designed according to claim 3 segments (5) by the mutually facing side walls (15) form a closure, while the side walls (15) of the other, according to claim 4 designed segments (5) have a distance from each other, whereby in this construct three channels (16) for Are available, and frequencies below about 1.5 - 1.8 KHz through these channels (16) arrive naturally to the eardrum.

8. Universal adapter according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that all segments (5) are arranged spirally around the longitudinal axis of the locking nipple from the dorsal to the proximal end of the adapter.

9. Universal adapter according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the centrally arranged locking nipple with a consisting of rigid plastic element, which serves to accommodate the sound outlet of external speakers commercially available behind the ear to be worn hearing aids, is formed or includes this ,

10. Universal adapter according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at its proximal end an easy to clean, curved cerumen guard (4) covers the sound outlet opening.

11. Universal adapter according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two segments (5) when introduced into the ear canal (19) form an overlap (27) and generate a closure by two into the interior of the segment (5 ) have offset side walls (26), wherein the contact surfaces (1) retain the original size.

12. Universal adapter according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that this for coupling ear speakers (32) comprises an anatomically shaped intermediate adapter whose existing solid material sound outlet nozzle (28) in the receiving opening (3) of the locking nipple (2) pluggable is, so that a releasable connection is provided, whereby the sound transmission from an ear speaker (32), which is clamped in a flexible clamping edge (31) of the intermediate adapter can be passed comfortably and without pressure into the ear canal (19).

13. The universal adapter according to claim 12, wherein the intermediate adapter consists of or comprises a two-component material.