EP3902288A1 - Hearing aid with a microphone unit, a loudspeaker unit and a connector, and use of a connector for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid - Google Patents

Abstract

A hearing aid for wearing on the ear is disclosed with: - a microphone unit, - a loudspeaker unit (1) and - a connecting element, wherein - the microphone unit has a housing with at least one microphone and the housing is worn on the ear during use, - the loudspeaker unit ( 1) has a cable (18) and a loudspeaker connected to a first end of the cable (18) which is inserted into an auditory canal during use and the cable (18) is detachably connected to the housing by means of a connector (2), wherein- the connector (2) is arranged on a second end of the cable (18) opposite the loudspeaker, wherein- a groove (4) is formed on the connector (2) and extends at least partially in the circumferential direction (Um) of the connector (2 ) and wherein the connecting element in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit (1) is in engagement with the groove (4) in order to secure the connector (2) to the housing of the microphone unit.

Description

The invention relates to a hearing aid with a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit, a connector and the use of a connector for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid.

The hearing aid of this type is used in particular to help people with a hearing impairment to improve their hearing. In known hearing aids, the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit are usually connected to one another by means of a locking pin extending in the radial direction of the components to be connected and penetrating several components or by means of a bayonet lock. This requires an increased degree of manufacturing accuracy for the secure connection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit.

To avoid this disadvantage, the present invention has for its object to provide an improved hearing aid with a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit, an improved connector and the use of an improved connector for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid, in particular a secure connection of the Microphone unit and the speaker unit is realized with reduced manufacturing effort.

The object is achieved by the subject matter of the respective independent patent claim. The respective dependent claims relate to preferred developments of the subject matter of the present invention.

One aspect relates to a hearing aid for wearing on the ear with a microphone unit, a loudspeaker unit and a connecting element, the microphone unit being a Has housing with at least one microphone and the housing is worn on the ear in use. The loudspeaker unit has a cable and a loudspeaker connected to a first end of the cable which is inserted into an ear canal in use. The cable is releasably connected to the housing by means of a connector, the connector being arranged at a second end of the cable opposite the loudspeaker. A groove for engaging with the connecting element is formed on the connector and extends at least partially in the circumferential direction of the connector, the connecting element being in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the speaker unit with the groove in order to the connector on the housing of the Secure microphone unit.

An advantage of the present invention is a simplified production of the hearing aid while ensuring a secure connection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit of the hearing aid, in particular secured by means of the connecting element against relative movement in the axial direction of the connector between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in its mounting position. In particular, the groove formed on the connector is easy to produce and, together with the connecting element of the hearing aid, ensures the secure connection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit.

Another advantage of the present invention is a quick and easy connection / disconnection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit by means of inserting / removing the connecting element.

A connector for releasably connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit can in particular serve for mechanical and / or electrical connection. The connector can thus have components for mechanical connection, components for electrical connection and / or components for combined mechanical and electrical connection. An outer shape of the connector can be adapted to a respective requirement and / or geometry of the units to be connected, for example the connector can have an approximately cylindrical outer shape.

A cable of a loudspeaker unit usually runs over the ear when the hearing aid is worn. In order to support the wearing of the hearing aid on the ear, the cable can be designed to be stiff or rigid, in particular preformed to fit an ear. Alternatively, the cable can be designed to be flexible.

An axial direction or an axial direction may be a direction in an extension of a length of a component. In the case of a connector designed in the form of a cylinder, for example, the axial direction is oriented approximately parallel to a surface line or the longitudinal axis of the connector.

A radial direction or radial direction can be oriented perpendicular to the axial direction. In the case of a connector designed in the form of a cylinder, for example, the radial direction coincides with the radius of the connector designed in the shape of a cylinder.

A secant direction can be oriented perpendicular to the axial direction in the direction of a secant. In the case of a, for example, cylindrical connector which has a circular cross-sectional area cut transversely to the axial direction, the respective secant direction runs in the direction of a circular chord.

Correspondingly, a circumferential direction can be a direction in an extension of the circumference of the connector which is, for example, cylindrical.

The terms “outside” or “inside” and the like used here mean in the context of the present invention that an, in particular idealized or imagined, center point is an innermost point. A point or area, which is referred to as being further outward than another point or area, is thus further away from the center point in the radial direction than the other, further inward point or area. A point or area that is referred to as being further inward than another point or area is therefore closer to the center point in the radial direction than the other, further outward, point or area. For example, is an outer Surface of the connector described in the mounting position of the microphone unit and the speaker unit arranged within the housing of the microphone unit. The interior of the housing is delimited by an outer wall of the housing, everything that is further away in the radial direction outward than the outer wall of the housing is located outside the housing.

The terms "above" or "above" and the like used below mean in the context of the present invention a direction and / or a position of an element in relation to another element counter to the direction of gravity, that is to say in the positive z direction. The terms “below” or “below” and the like used below mean, in the context of the present invention, a direction and / or a position of an element in relation to another element in the direction of gravity.

The connector can have at least one holder which can be formed on the outside of the connector. In other words, the at least one holder can be arranged on an outer surface - that is to say on an outer surface - of the connector.

In particular, the connector can be releasably locked by means of the holder in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit with the housing of the microphone unit.

The holder on the connector with the above configuration is advantageously easily accessible for the simple and effective locking of the loudspeaker unit, in particular the connector, to the housing of the microphone unit.

Another aspect relates to a hearing aid to be worn on the ear with a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit, the microphone unit having a housing with at least one microphone and the housing being worn on the ear during use. The loudspeaker unit has a cable and a loudspeaker connected to a first end of the cable which is inserted into an ear canal in use.

The cable is releasably connected to the housing by means of a connector, the connector being arranged at a second end of the cable opposite the loudspeaker. In this case, the connector is releasably locked to the housing of the microphone unit in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit by means of at least one holder which is formed on the outside of the connector.

To put it in other words, the at least one holder can be arranged on an outer surface - that is, on an outer surface - of the connector, in particular when the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit are not connected. The outer surface of the connector is arranged in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit within the housing of the microphone unit.

One advantage of the present invention is a simplified production of the hearing aid while ensuring a secure, releasable locking of the connector with the housing of the microphone unit in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit. In particular, the at least one holder formed on the connector is easy to manufacture and, together with the housing of the microphone unit, ensures the secure releasable locking of the connector to the housing.

The holder can extend at least partially in the radial direction of the connector. In other words, the at least one holder can be designed to protrude outward from an outer surface - that is to say from an outer surface - of the connector in the radial direction of the connector.

The above configuration further contributes to the fact that the holder on the connector is easily accessible for the simple and effective locking of the loudspeaker unit, in particular the connector, to the housing of the microphone unit.

The hearing aid can advantageously have a connecting element, a groove being formed on the connector for engaging with the connecting element can be and can extend at least partially in the circumferential direction of the connector. In this case, the connecting element can be in engagement with the groove in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in order to secure the connector to the housing of the microphone unit.

By means of the connecting element, a positive and / or frictional connection can be formed between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in their mounting position.

In particular, in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, a positive and / or frictional connection can be formed between the housing of the microphone unit and the groove of the connector by means of the connecting element.

To bring about the form fit, the connecting element can engage behind the connector.

With the above configuration, a precise and uncomplicated connection / disconnection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit can advantageously be ensured quickly and easily by inserting / removing the connecting element.
The connecting element can advantageously be designed to be elastically deformable.

A simple and effective engagement of the connecting element with the groove can thus be ensured.

For example, the connecting element can be designed as a spring ring - such as a locking ring, a circlip or a grooved ring - or as a spring clip - such as a spring clip or a permanent split pin - in particular made of metal or plastic.

Advantageously, the above configuration, in particular by means of easy-to-obtain, inexpensive and standardized standard parts, can further contribute to a quick and easy connection / disconnection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit by inserting / removing the connecting element.

The connecting element can be designed separately and / or arranged in a captive manner on the housing of the microphone unit. For captive fastening, the connecting element can be fastened to the housing, for example, by means of a cord, a wire or a chain, with the freedom of movement required for handling the connecting element being taken into account for the length of the respective fastening means.

Alternatively, the connecting element can be designed in one piece with the housing of the microphone unit. For example, the connecting element can be designed as a spring clip section cast onto a plastic housing, or it can be manufactured in the manufacture of the housing using an injection molding process. As an alternative to this, the connecting element can be glued to the housing, encapsulated with it or otherwise non-detachably connected to it, regardless of the material in question.

A corresponding opening can be formed on the housing of the microphone unit, through which the connecting element can engage in the groove of the connector in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit unintentional separation of the microphone unit from the loudspeaker unit is prevented.

In particular, the groove can be formed on the outside of the connector. In other words, the groove can be arranged on an outer surface - that is to say on an outer surface - of the connector.

Thus, the groove on the connector is easily accessible for the simple and effective engagement of the connector with the groove.

For example, a groove can be formed on each opposite side of the connector in the radial direction of the connector. In other words, a total of two mutually separate grooves can be formed on sides of the connector that are opposite each other in the radial direction of the connector.

In this case, the groove can be designed to run at least partially in the circumferential direction of the connector.

As an alternative or in addition to this, the groove can be formed at least partially in the secant direction of the connector.

Furthermore, the groove can at least partially have a constant depth, that is to say a constant extension in the radial direction of the connector.

As an alternative or in addition to this, the groove can at least partially have a variable depth over its extent in the circumferential direction or secant direction of the connector, the maximum depth of the groove being able to occur approximately in the middle of its extent in the circumferential direction or secant direction of the connector.

Advantageously, at least one holder can be formed on each opposite side of the connector in the radial direction of the connector.

Thus, the housing of the microphone unit can be locked with the connector smoothly and securely. Furthermore, with the above configuration, simple and effective guidance of the housing on the brackets can be achieved, in particular by means of receptacles of the housing described below. Even a secure electrical contact described in more detail below can be achieved with the above configuration by simply plugging the loudspeaker unit into the microphone unit.

In particular, the holder can be designed in the shape of a cylinder.

A longitudinal axis of the holder can be at least partially aligned in the radial direction of the connector. In other words, the holder can be designed to protrude outward from the connector in the radial direction of the connector.

The holder on the connector is thus easily accessible for the simple and effective locking of the loudspeaker unit, in particular the connector, to the housing of the microphone unit.

The at least one holder can be formed on a base plate, which can be arranged on a first end section of the connector, in particular on a contacting section described below. The base plate can be designed with mutually parallel guide surfaces, wherein the guide surfaces can be aligned in the axial direction of the connector. At an end section of the base plate which faces the housing of the microphone unit in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, the guide surfaces can run towards one another. For example, the guide surfaces can enclose an angle of approximately 90 ° on one end section.

With the above configuration, a guide for the receptacles described below can be effected on the housing for the effective and simple locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the holder, in order to position the receptacles and the holders relative to one another securely.

For example, the connector of the loudspeaker unit and the housing of the microphone unit can be brought together in such a way that the receptacles for locking are positioned on the brackets and by means of a pivoting movement of the The connector can be locked to the housing. Alternatively or additionally, the housing can be locked to the connector by means of a pivoting movement of the housing.

The holder can advantageously interact with the connecting element in order to ensure both a releasable locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the connector and a securing of the connector on the housing of the microphone unit in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit.

In particular, by means of a form fit between the housing and the holder, a releasable locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the connector can be effected, which has at most one degree of freedom, namely a rotational degree of freedom of the housing around the holder. By means of the connection element, which also acts in a form-fitting manner between the housing and the connector, in this case not only a relative movement in the axial direction of the connector between the housing and the connector can be prevented, but together with the bracket a releasable locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the Connector are effected, which no longer has a degree of freedom.

To bring about the form fit, the connecting element can engage behind the connector. Furthermore, the respective receptacle can engage behind the assigned holder to effect the form fit.

Depending on the design of the holder, however, the housing of the microphone unit can also be locked to the connector without any degree of freedom. In this case, the locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the connector can be additionally secured by means of the connecting element.

For example, in the case of two cylindrical brackets, one bracket each on opposite sides in the radial direction of the connector of the connector is formed, the aforementioned locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the connector can be effected with exactly one rotational degree of freedom around the brackets. For this purpose, the housing can be designed with receptacles, for example hollow cylindrical sockets, assigned to and adapted to the respective holders.

For this purpose, the housing can be designed to be elastically deformable in such a way that, in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, it can be expanded in the radial direction of the connector to such an extent that the respective receptacle can be placed over the associated holder. After the expansion has ended, the housing can then return to its original shape and the respective holder can thus be received in the associated receptacle. In other words, the respective holder can be enclosed by the assigned receptacle at least in the circumferential direction of the holder, in particular without play.

Alternatively, for example, with four cylindrical holders, two of which are formed on opposite sides of the connector in the radial direction of the connector, the aforementioned locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the connector can be effected without a degree of freedom. In this case, the respective brackets on one side of the connector can be formed at a distance from one another in the radial direction of the brackets or in the axial direction of the connector.

In particular, when the housing of the microphone unit is locked on the connector, each individual holder can be received in the respectively assigned receptacle.

As an alternative or in addition to this, a plurality of holders can be accommodated in a common assigned receptacle on the same side of the connector, viewed in the radial direction of the connector.

As an alternative or in addition to this, mounts formed on opposite sides of the connector in the radial direction of the connector can be received in a common assigned receptacle.

For example, mounts formed on opposite sides of the connector in the radial direction of the connector can be received in pairs or crosswise in a common, assigned receptacle.

Advantageously, with the above configuration, by means of two or four cylindrical brackets, effective guidance of the housing on the brackets for positioning the housing on the connector for simple and effective locking of the loudspeaker unit and the microphone unit in their mounting position can be achieved. Compared to a guide on long guide surfaces, this guide can have a lower tendency to jam and / or tilt. Safe electrical contacting, which is described in more detail below, can also be supported with the above configuration for simple and effective locking of the loudspeaker unit and the microphone unit in their mounting position.

In particular, the two holders can have different diameters from one another on the same side of the connector as seen in the radial direction of the connector. Furthermore, the brackets opposite one another in the radial direction of the connector can have the same diameter.

For example, a diameter / length ratio of the holder can be in the range from about 0.75 to about 1.25 or in the range from about 0.85 to about 1.15 or about equal to 1. A holder that is relatively short in relation to its diameter can thus be achieved, which can enable effective locking with the housing of the microphone unit.

For this purpose, the housing can also have receptacles assigned to the respective holders and adapted to the respective holders, for example hollow cylindrical sockets. As an alternative or in addition to this, the housing of the microphone unit can be designed with spring clips assigned to the respective holders, for example spring clips or split pins.

Similar to the connecting element described above, at least one of the receptacles can be arranged in a captive manner on the housing of the microphone unit.

Alternatively, at least one of the receptacles can be formed in one piece with the housing of the microphone unit. For example, the respective receptacle can be designed as a receptacle section cast onto a plastic housing or can be produced in the manufacture of the housing using an injection molding process. As an alternative to this, the connecting element can be glued to the housing, encapsulated with it or otherwise non-detachably connected to it, regardless of the material in question.

A guide device can be formed on the housing of the microphone unit which corresponds to the previously described guide surfaces of the base plate for the at least one holder in order to ensure secure positioning of the respective receptacle on the associated holder. For example, the guide device can have mutually parallel guide surfaces within which the guide surfaces of the base plate can be accommodated. The guide surfaces of the guide device, like the guide surfaces of the base plate, can advantageously be aligned in the axial direction of the connector.

At least one contacting element for establishing electrical contact between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit can advantageously be formed on the connector.

The at least one contact element can be designed as an electrical contact element such as a spring contact, in particular a spring tongue, a - in particular spring-loaded - contact pin or the like.

Thus, in addition to the mechanical locking and securing of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit described above, the connector can also be used to ensure an electrical connection between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in their mounting position.

As an alternative or in addition to this, at least one contact element can also be suitable for the mechanical connection between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in their assembly position. For example, in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, an end section of the at least one contacting element can be received or latched in a corresponding receiving section on the housing of the microphone unit, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

The at least one contacting element can thus contribute to the secure mechanical connection between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in their assembly position.

For example, the at least one contact element can be designed as a contact spring protruding beyond the connector, in particular in the axial direction of the connector.

In particular, the at least one contact element can be arranged in a contact section on a first end section of the connector. In this case, the at least one contacting element can be designed as a contact spring protruding beyond the contacting section in the axial direction of the contacting section. For example, in both axial directions of the contacting section, the contacting elements can be designed as protruding beyond the contacting section.

The contact spring can be designed to be elastically deformable and can be made, for example, of an electrically conductive metal or an electrically conductive metal alloy.

Furthermore, the above-described at least one holder of the connector can be arranged on the contacting section.

A sealing element for sealing between the connector and the housing of the microphone unit can advantageously be arranged on the connector. In other words, in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, a gap between the connector and the housing of the microphone unit can be sealed by means of a sealing element.

In particular, viewed in the axial direction of the connector, the sealing element can be arranged between the groove and a second end section of the connector, the cable emerging from the second end section of the connector. In other words, the sealing element, viewed in the axial direction of the connector, in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, can be arranged further outside with respect to the housing than the groove and / or the at least one contacting element.

The interior of the housing of the microphone unit in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit can thus be effectively protected against environmental influences such as moisture and / or dust from the direction of the loudspeaker unit by means of the sealing element.

For example, the sealing element can be designed as an O-ring, which can be received or received in a groove running around the circumference of the connector.

Advantageously, the sealing element, which is designed as an O-ring, can be easily renewed in the event of wear and / or a deterioration in the sealing effect.

As an alternative or in addition to this, the sealing element can be injection molded onto the connector, in particular circumferentially in the circumferential direction of the connector, and in particular contain an elastomer.

Advantageously, the sealing element formed in one piece with the connector can be precisely matched to a gap existing between the housing and the connector in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, and an improved sealing effect can thus be achieved compared to a separately formed O-ring.

In particular, a stop projecting in the radial direction of the connector for the housing of the microphone unit can be formed on the second end section of the connector.

The stop can be designed to run at least partially in the circumferential direction of the connector.

By means of the stop, the connector can be introduced into the housing to a suitable extent in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in order to effectively lock the housing to the holder and to effectively secure the connector to the housing.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a connector for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid, wherein a groove for engaging with a connecting element is formed on the connector and extends at least partially in the circumferential direction of the connector and wherein the connecting element is in a mounting position of the Microphone unit and the speaker unit can be brought into engagement with the groove to secure the connector to a housing of the microphone unit.

The advantages of the connector for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid result analogously from the above described hearing aid with the connector mentioned features and their advantages.

Another advantage of the present invention is a simplified production of the groove formed on the connector, which together with the connecting element that can be brought into engagement therein ensures the secure connection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, in particular against a relative movement in the axial direction of the connector between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in their mounting position.

The connecting element can be designed as a spring ring - such as a locking ring, a Seeger ring or a grooved ring - or as a spring clip - such as a spring clip or a permanent split pin, in particular made of metal or plastic.

In particular, the groove can be formed on the outside of the connector. In other words, the groove can be arranged on an outer surface - that is to say on an outer surface - of the connector.

Thus, the groove on the connector is easily accessible for the simple and effective engagement of the connector with the groove.

For example, a groove can be formed on each opposite side of the connector in the radial direction of the connector. In other words, a total of two mutually separate grooves can be formed on sides of the connector that are opposite each other in the radial direction of the connector.

In this case, the groove can be designed to run at least partially in the circumferential direction of the connector.

As an alternative or in addition to this, the groove can be formed at least partially in the secant direction of the connector.

Furthermore, the groove can at least partially have a constant depth, that is to say a constant extension in the radial direction of the connector.

As an alternative or in addition to this, the groove can at least partially have a variable depth over its extent in the circumferential direction or secant direction of the connector, the maximum depth of the groove being able to occur approximately in the middle of its extent in the circumferential direction or secant direction of the connector.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a connector for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid, at least one holder for releasably locking the connector to a housing of the microphone unit being formed on the outside of the connector and extending at least partially in the radial direction of the connector.

To put it in other words, the at least one holder can be arranged on an outer surface - that is to say on an outer surface - of the connector.

The advantages of the connector for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid result analogously from the features mentioned for the above-described hearing aid with the connector and their advantages.

Another advantage of the present invention is a simplified production of the holder formed on the connector, which together with the detachably lockable housing of the microphone unit ensures the secure connection of the connector to the microphone unit in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit.

Advantageously, at least one holder can be formed on each opposite side of the connector in the radial direction of the connector.

Thus, the housing of the microphone unit can be locked with the connector smoothly and securely.

In particular, the holder can be designed in the shape of a cylinder.

A longitudinal axis of the holder can be at least partially aligned in the radial direction of the connector. In other words, the holder can be designed to protrude outward from the connector in the radial direction of the connector.

The holder on the connector is thus easily accessible for the simple and effective locking of the loudspeaker unit, in particular the connector, to the housing of the microphone unit.

The at least one holder can be formed on a base plate, which can be arranged on a first end section of the connector, in particular on a contacting section described below. The base plate can be designed with mutually parallel guide surfaces, wherein the guide surfaces can be aligned in the axial direction of the connector. At an end section of the base plate which faces the housing of the microphone unit in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, the guide surfaces can run towards one another. For example, the guide surfaces can enclose an angle of approximately 90 ° on one end section.

With the above configuration, a guide for the receptacles described below can be effected on the housing for the effective and simple locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the holder, in order to position the receptacles securely on the holder.

The holder can advantageously cooperate with the connecting element in order to ensure both a releasable locking of the housing of the microphone unit on the connector and a securing of the connector on the housing of the microphone unit in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit.

For example, a total of two cylindrical holders can be formed on sides of the connector which are opposite to one another in the radial direction of the connector.

Alternatively, a total of four cylindrical holders can be formed on the connector, two in each case being formed on opposite sides of the connector in the radial direction of the connector. The brackets on one side of the connector can be designed to be spaced apart from one another in the radial direction of the brackets or in the axial direction of the connector.

Advantageously, with the above configuration by means of two or four cylindrical brackets, an effective guidance of the housing on the brackets for positioning the housing on the connector for simple and effective locking of the loudspeaker unit and the microphone unit in their mounting position can be achieved. Compared to a guide on long guide surfaces, this guide can have a lower tendency to jam and / or tilt. Safe electrical contacting, which is described in more detail below, can also be supported with the above configuration for simple and effective locking of the loudspeaker unit and the microphone unit in their mounting position.

In particular, the two holders can have different diameters from one another on the same side of the connector as seen in the radial direction of the connector. Furthermore, the brackets opposite one another in the radial direction of the connector can have the same diameter.

For example, a diameter / length ratio of the holder can be in the range from about 0.75 to about 1.25 or in the range from about 0.85 to about 1.15 or about equal to 1. A holder that is relatively short in relation to its diameter can thus be achieved, which can enable effective locking with the housing of the microphone unit.

At least one contacting element for establishing electrical contact between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit can advantageously be formed on the connector.

Thus, in addition to mechanically locking and securing the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, the connector can also be used to ensure an electrical connection between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in their mounting position.

As an alternative or in addition to this, at least one contact element can also be suitable for the mechanical connection between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in their assembly position. For example, in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, an end section of the at least one contact element can be received or latched in a corresponding receiving section on the housing of the microphone unit, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

Thus, by means of the at least one contacting element, it can contribute to the secure mechanical connection between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in their assembly position.

For example, the at least one contact element can be designed as a contact spring protruding beyond the connector, in particular in the axial direction of the connector.

In particular, the at least one contacting element can be arranged in a contacting section on a first end section of the connector. In this case, the at least one contacting element can be designed as a contact spring protruding beyond the contacting section in the axial direction of the contacting section. For example, in both axial directions of the contacting section, the contacting elements can be designed as protruding beyond the contacting section.

The contact spring can be designed to be elastically deformable and can be made, for example, of an electrically conductive metal or an electrically conductive metal alloy.

Furthermore, the above-described at least one holder of the connector can be arranged on the contacting section.

A sealing element for sealing between the connector and the housing of the microphone unit can advantageously be arranged on the connector.

In particular, the sealing element, viewed in the axial direction of the connector, can be arranged between the groove and a second end section of the connector, the cable emerging from the second end section of the connector. In other words, viewed in the axial direction of the connector, in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit, the sealing element can be arranged further outside with respect to the housing than the groove and / or the at least one contacting element.

Thus, the interior of the housing of the microphone unit in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit can be effectively protected against environmental influences such as moisture and / or dust from the direction of the loudspeaker unit by means of the sealing element.

For example, the sealing element can be designed as an O-ring, which can be received or received in a groove running around the circumference of the connector.

Advantageously, the sealing element, which is designed as an O-ring, can be easily renewed in the event of wear and / or a deterioration in the sealing effect.

As an alternative or in addition to this, the sealing element can be injection molded onto the connector, in particular circumferentially in the circumferential direction of the connector, and in particular contain an elastomer.

Advantageously, the sealing element formed in one piece with the connector can be precisely matched to a gap that exists between the housing and the connector in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit and thus an improved sealing effect can be achieved compared to a separately formed O-ring.

In particular, a stop projecting in the radial direction of the connector for the housing of the microphone unit can be formed on the second end section of the connector.

The stop can be designed to run at least partially in the circumferential direction of the connector.

By means of the stop, the connector can be introduced into the housing to a suitable extent in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit in order to effectively lock the housing to the holder and to effectively secure the connector to the housing.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a use of a connector described above for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid described above.

The advantages of using the connector result analogously from the features mentioned for the hearing aid described above and their advantages.

• einem Gehäuse der Mikrofoneinheit mit mindestens einem Mikrofon, wobei das Gehäuse im Gebrauch am Ohr getragen ist,
• einem Kabel, an dessen erstem Ende ein Lautsprecher der Lautsprechereinheit verbindbar ist und
• einem Verbinder, der zum lösbaren Verbinden des Kabels mit dem Gehäuse an einem dem Lautsprecher entgegengesetzten zweiten Ende des Kabels angeordnet ist, wobei das Verbindungselement separat ausgebildet ist und/oder unverlierbar an dem Gehäuse der Mikrofoneinheit angeordnet ist.

A system for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid to be worn on the ear is also disclosed, with:

• a housing of the microphone unit with at least one microphone, the housing being worn on the ear during use,
• a cable, at the first end of which a loudspeaker of the loudspeaker unit can be connected and
• a connector which is arranged for releasably connecting the cable to the housing at a second end of the cable opposite the loudspeaker, wherein the connecting element is formed separately and / or is arranged in a captive manner on the housing of the microphone unit.

The advantages of the system for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid result analogously from the features mentioned for the hearing aid described above and their advantages.

In the following, exemplary embodiments of the connector according to the invention for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit of a hearing aid are explained in more detail with reference to drawings. It goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described below, and that individual features thereof can be combined to form further exemplary embodiments.

Fig. 1

eine räumliche Ansicht eines Verbinders des erfindungsgemäßen Hörgeräts gemäß einem Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;

Fig. 2

eine Vorderansicht des Verbinders gemäß Fig. 1;

Fig. 3

eine Draufsicht auf den Verbinder gemäß Fig. 1; und

Fig. 4

eine vergrößerte Ansicht einer Schnittdarstellung des Verbinders gemäß Fig. 1 entlang eines in Fig. 2 gezeigten Schnittverlaufs A-A.

Show it:

Fig. 1

a three-dimensional view of a connector of the hearing aid according to the invention according to an embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 2

a front view of the connector according to FIG Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 3

a top view of the connector according to FIG Fig. 1 ; and

Fig. 4

FIG. 8 is an enlarged view of a cross-sectional view of the connector of FIG Fig. 1 along one in Fig. 2 Section AA shown.

The axial direction Ax, the circumferential direction Um and the radial direction Ra of the connector 2 are shown in the figures by means of directional arrows, in particular in the manner of a coordinate system. Although the directional arrows only point in one direction, the directional information also contains a respective opposite direction. Two radial directions Ra are given by way of example; this is only intended to give an impression of the many possible radial directions Ra.

In the figures, reference is made to a connection element of the microphone unit and to a housing of the microphone unit, the microphone unit, its connection element and its housing not being shown in the figures.

The spatial view in Fig. 1 shows a loudspeaker unit 1 of the hearing aid according to the invention according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention from obliquely from the top, the associated loudspeaker not being shown.

As shown in this exemplary embodiment, a connector 2 of the loudspeaker unit 1 can have a cylindrical shape. On an outer surface of the connector 2, a groove 4 can be formed in each case on sides of the connector 2 which are opposite to one another in the radial direction Ra of the connector 2. Furthermore, a sealing element 6 in the form of an O-ring can be formed on the connector 2. As an alternative or in addition to this, the sealing element 6 can be injection-molded onto the connector 2, in particular in the circumferential direction Um of the connector 2.

Furthermore, four cylindrical holders 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d can be formed on the outside of the connector 2, two of which are formed on sides of the connector 2 which are opposite to one another in the radial direction Ra of the connector 2. The respective brackets 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d on one side of the connector 2 in In the radial direction of the brackets 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d or in the axial direction Ax of the connector 2, they may be formed at a distance from one another.

In other words, brackets 8a, 8b can be formed at a distance from one another on one side of the connector 2 in the radial direction of the brackets 8a, 8b or in the axial direction Ax of the connector 2 and brackets 8c, 8d on another side of the connector 2 in the radial direction of the brackets 8c, 8d or spaced apart from one another in the axial direction Ax of the connector 2.

As shown in this exemplary embodiment, the holders 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d of the connector 2 can be arranged on a contacting section 12 formed on the first end section 10 of the connector 2, in particular on a base plate 14 ) Groove of the housing (not shown) of the microphone unit (not shown) are guided in order to securely position receptacles (not shown) of the housing and the brackets 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d relative to one another.

As further shown, the contacting section 12 can be designed with a total of six contacting elements 16. Due to the perspective representation, in Fig. 1 only three of the six contacting elements 16 are visible. The other three contacting elements 16 are in Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 shown. Alternatively, other numbers of contacting elements 16 are possible, for example 2, 4, 8, 10 or 12 contacting elements 16.

The contacting elements 16 can be designed as contact springs which, for example, can be designed to be elastically deformable and can be made from an electrically conductive metal or an electrically conductive metal alloy.

A cable 18, which is electrically connected to respective contacting elements 16, can emerge from the connector 2 at a second end section 20 of the connector 2. A loudspeaker attached to one of the second end portions 20 of the connector 2 a (not shown) first end portion of the cable 18 is arranged, as already mentioned above, is not shown.

In the in Fig. 2 shown front view of the connector 2 according to Fig. 1 Of the six contacting elements 16, only the foremost of the three consecutive contacting elements 16 are visible. The contacting elements 16 can, as shown in this exemplary embodiment, be designed to protrude beyond the contacting section 12 in both axial directions Ax of the contacting section 12, namely on a lower side of the contacting section 12 and / or the connector 2. As shown in this exemplary embodiment, the contacting elements 16 can additionally be designed as protruding beyond the underside of the contacting section 12 and / or the connector 2.

Furthermore, a stop 22 for a housing of a microphone unit (both not shown) can be formed on the second end section 20 of the connector 2, protruding in the radial direction Ra of the connector 2. As shown, the stop 22 can be formed on an upper side of the connector 2 and partially in the circumferential direction Um of the connector 2. As an alternative to this, the stop 22 can be embodied completely circumferentially in the circumferential direction Um of the connector 2.

The function of the stop 22 can also be taken over by at least one of the brackets 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, in particular brackets 8a, 8d which are opposite one another in the radial direction Ra of the connector 2 and / or brackets 8a, 8d which are opposite one another in the radial direction Ra of the connector 2 Holders 8b, 8c.

The two brackets 8a, 8b and / or brackets 8c, 8d formed on the same side of the connector 2 as seen in the radial direction Ra of the connector 2 can, as shown in this exemplary embodiment, have different diameters and / or the same extent in their axial direction Ax.

As in the top view in Fig. 3 on the connector 2 according to Fig. 1 shown, the brackets 8a, 8d opposite one another in the radial direction Ra of the connector 2 and / or the brackets 8b, 8c opposite one another in the radial direction Ra of the connector 2 can have the same diameter and / or the same extent in their axial direction Ax.

In Fig. 4 FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of the connector of FIG Fig. 1 in a sectional view along an in Fig. 2 shown section line AA shown.

The grooves 4 according to this exemplary embodiment can be formed in the secant direction of the connector 2, as shown, wherein a depth 24 of the respective groove 4 can be constant.

Of the total of six contacting elements 16 which are formed in the contacting section 12 in this exemplary embodiment, FIG Fig. 4 three contacting elements 16 formed on the underside of the contacting section 12 and / or the connector 2 are visible.

A function of individual elements of the connector 2 is described below with reference to the above figures:
In order to connect the loudspeaker unit 1 to the microphone unit (not shown), the connector 2 with the contacting section 12 and the first end section 10 up to its stop 22 and / or up to the stop on the brackets 8a, 8d and / or the brackets 8b , 8c are inserted into the (not shown) housing of the microphone unit.

The electrical contacts between the contacting elements 16 and corresponding counterparts in the housing can be established in order to electrically connect a microphone (not shown) of the microphone unit to the loudspeaker (not shown) of the loudspeaker unit 1.

In order to reliably maintain the electrical and mechanical connection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit 1, the housing can be locked to the brackets 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, in particular by means of receptacles formed thereon for the brackets 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d.

The contacting elements 16 embodied, for example, as elastically deformable contact springs can also be used for the mechanical connection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit 1. For this purpose, in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit 1, an end section of at least one contact element 16 can be received or latched in a corresponding receiving section on the housing of the microphone unit, in particular in a form-fitting manner.

To secure the connection of the microphone unit (not shown) and the loudspeaker unit 1 in their mounting position, in particular before a relative movement between connector 2 and microphone unit, a connecting element (not shown) of the microphone unit with the (not shown) housing of the microphone unit and the groove 4 of the connector 2 are engaged.

A mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit 1 is thus achieved in a simple and effective manner, which is used for simple mounting of the hearing aid and in particular ensures an electrical and mechanical connection of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit 1.

For easy dismantling of the hearing aid, the connecting element can be brought out of engagement with the groove 4, the housing of the microphone unit can be unlocked on the holder 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d and the loudspeaker unit 1 can be pulled out of the microphone unit.

List of reference symbols

1

Speaker unit

2

Interconnects

4th

Groove

6th

Sealing element

8a, 8b, 8c, 8d

bracket

10

first end portion of the connector

12th

Contacting section

14th

Base plate

16

Contacting element

18th

cable

20th

second end portion of the connector

22nd

attack

24

Depth of the groove

Ax

Axial direction

Ra

Radial direction

Around

Circumferential direction

Claims (15)

Hearing aid to wear on the ear with: - a microphone unit, - a loudspeaker unit (1) and - A connecting element, wherein - the microphone unit has a housing with at least one microphone and the housing is worn on the ear during use, - the loudspeaker unit (1) has a cable (18) and a loudspeaker connected to a first end of the cable (18) which is inserted into an ear canal in use and - The cable (18) is detachably connected to the housing by means of a connector (2), wherein - The connector (2) is arranged at a second end of the cable (18) opposite the loudspeaker, wherein - A groove (4) is formed on the connector (2) and extends at least partially in the circumferential direction (Um) of the connector (2) and wherein the connecting element in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit (1) with the groove (4) is engaged to secure the connector (2) to the housing of the microphone unit. Hearing aid according to Claim 1, the connector (2) being releasably locked to the housing of the microphone unit in the mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit (1) by means of at least one holder (8) formed on the outside of the connector (2). Hearing aid to wear on the ear with: - a microphone unit and - A loudspeaker unit (1), wherein - the microphone unit has a housing with at least one microphone and the housing is worn on the ear during use, - the loudspeaker unit (1) has a cable (18) and a loudspeaker connected to a first end of the cable (18) which is inserted into an ear canal in use and - The cable (18) is detachably connected to the housing by means of a connector (2), wherein - The connector (2) is arranged at a second end of the cable (18) opposite the loudspeaker and wherein - The connector (2) is releasably locked to the housing of the microphone unit in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit (1) by means of at least one holder (8) which is formed on the outside of the connector (2). Hearing aid according to claim 3, wherein the holder (8) extends at least partially in the radial direction (Ra) of the connector (2) in such a way that the holder (8) extends from an outer surface of the connector (2) in the radial direction (Ra) of the connector (2 ) is formed protruding outwards. Hearing aid according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the hearing aid has a connecting element, a groove (4) for engaging with the connecting element is formed on the connector (2) and extends at least partially in the circumferential direction (Um) of the connector and wherein the connecting element engages the groove (4) in the assembly position of the microphone unit and the speaker unit (1) to secure the connector (2) to the housing of the microphone unit. Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein by means of the connecting element between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit (1) a form-fitting and / or frictional connection is formed in its mounting position. Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting element is designed to be elastically deformable. Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the groove (4) is formed on the outside of the connector (2), optionally a groove (4) on each side of the connector (2) opposite one another in the radial direction (Ra) of the connector (2) is trained. Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one holder (8) is formed on each side of the connector (2) which are opposite to one another in the radial direction (Ra) of the connector. Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holder (8) is cylindrical and a longitudinal axis of the holder (8) is at least partially aligned in the radial direction (Ra) of the connector (2). Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one contacting element (16) for establishing electrical contact between the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit (1) is formed on the connector (2). Hearing aid according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a sealing element (6) for sealing between the connector (2) and the housing of the microphone unit is arranged on the connector (2). Connector for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit (1) of a hearing aid, wherein a groove (4) for engaging with a connecting element is formed on the connector (2) and extends at least partially in the circumferential direction (Um) of the connector (2) and wherein the connecting element can be brought into engagement with the groove (4) in a mounting position of the microphone unit and the loudspeaker unit (1) in order to secure the connector (2) to a housing of the microphone unit. Connector (2) for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit (1) of a hearing aid, wherein at least one holder (8) for releasably locking the connector (2) to a housing of the microphone unit is formed on the outside of the connector (2) and is at least partially extends in the radial direction (Ra) of the connector (2). Use of a connector (2) according to one of Claims 13 or 14 for connecting a microphone unit and a loudspeaker unit (1) of a hearing aid according to one of Claims 1 to 12.

Images