JP2019004458A - Trial-listening of setting of hearing device, related system, and hearing device - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a hearing system which can set a hearing device, and makes a user easily execute trial-listening or evaluate to the user of the hearing device.SOLUTION: A hearing system 1 includes an attachment device 4 and a hearing device 2. The hearing device 2 includes: an input module 12 including a first microphone 16; and a receiver 26 that supplies a processor output signal on the basis of a first input signal 16A by processing the first input signal 16A and supplies a sound output signal on the basis of a processor 22 and a processor output signal 24. The hearing system 1 is structured by acquiring a user input indicating the change of a first primary setting to the hearing device 2 to a first secondary setting, and outputs a secondary sound output signal in accordance with the first secondary setting at the time of detecting the change of the first primary setting to the first secondary setting.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present disclosure relates to audition or evaluation of hearing device settings within a hearing system, and in particular to a hearing system, an accessory device, and a method for evaluating a hearing device setting.

  In the field of hearing devices, it is difficult to explain to the user what is done by setting digital signal processing (DSP). The reason is that many users do not have an accurate or consistent vocabulary for auditory effects (difficult to label / name in the software user interface). In the application of a hearing device when the sound source is external / environmental, the sound input is not always present or appropriate to demonstrate the sound processing effect. For example, if the user adjusts the noise reduction setting of the hearing device, the difference after the new setting is perceived whether the environmental noise has disappeared or the environmental noise has changed as a result of adjusting the setting. It ’s difficult. This lack of clear feedback prevents users from trying and using DSP features that may improve sound quality. This is because the user does not understand what the property is doing or has no confidence in the actual effect of the property.

  United States Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0028362 relates to a hearing device and related methods having visualized psychoacoustic variables. Hearing device settings and / or adjustments for the user are provided. The hearing device includes a signal processing facility that processes input sound to form an output sound and a perceptual model that is executed in the signal processing facility or in a processing facility connected to a data link. Provides psychoacoustic variables for the output sound. A visualization facility including a processing facility, for example integrated with a remote control, is preferably connected wirelessly to the signal processing facility. In this way, the value of the psychoacoustic variable is visualized.

  Accordingly, there is a need for a hearing system, method and hearing device that provides improved clear feedback about setting adjustments to hearing device users.

  A hearing system is disclosed that includes a hearing device and / or an accessory device. The hearing device is an input module for providing a first input signal, an input module including a first microphone; processing the first input signal and providing an output signal from a processor based on the first input signal A processor that converts the output signal into an audio output signal based on the output signal from the processor. The hearing system is configured to receive and detect user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting. Further, the hearing device may detect the secondary audio output signal according to the first secondary setting and / or the first primary setting, for example, upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. May be output.

  Further, in a hearing system that includes a hearing device and / or an accessory device, for example, a method for evaluating settings of a hearing device is disclosed. The method is optionally performed by a hearing system. The hearing device is an input module for providing a first input signal, an input module including a first microphone; processing the first input signal and providing an output signal from a processor based on the first input signal A processor that converts the output signal into an audio output signal based on the output signal from the processor. The method obtains, eg, receives and / or detects, user input indicating changing a first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting, and first to first from the first primary setting. Outputting a secondary audio output signal by the receiver according to the first secondary setting upon detection of a change to the secondary setting.

  An accessory device for or forming a part of a hearing system including a hearing device is disclosed. The accessory device includes an accessory device user interface and a processor, wherein the accessory device user interface obtains, eg, receives and / or detects, user input indicative of changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting. And the processor controls the hearing device to output a secondary audio output signal according to the first secondary setting, for example, upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Configured to do.

  The hearing systems and methods disclosed herein provide audio feedback to the user immediately or in real time when the user changes one or more settings of the hearing device. Thus, the user can reliably and effectively evaluate the effect of one or more new settings of the hearing device.

  Auditory effect previews avoid the problem of finding a consistent and accurate vocabulary for most users and reduce the problem of explaining the sound processing effects to the user. Actual direct audio demonstrations show the effectiveness of the processing effect to the user and when the ambient sound is not ideal to understand what currently does not exist or what has happened due to the effect. , Help the user to choose a better optimal setting. In addition, demonstrations using actual sounds / voices can be more effective in communicating with users.

  The hearing system, apparatus and method provide improved clear feedback to the user of the hearing apparatus with respect to setting adjustments.

  Extensions to the graphical and / or physical interfaces commonly used to adjust hearing device settings (eg, EQ, noise reduction, etc.) in a hearing device are provided. When operating a control (eg, slider, knob, or button), the auditory system generates or outputs a demonstration audio signal so that the effect of the adjustment can be heard clearly.

  Using sonification for user feedback on user input is an important advantage of the present disclosure. In this context, sonification is the use of non-verbal speech to convey information or perceptible data. Auditory perception has advantages in temporal, spatial, amplitude, and frequency resolution, and opens up possibilities as an alternative or complement to visualization techniques.

  The hearing system includes a hearing device, the hearing device being an input module for providing a first input signal, the input module including a first microphone; processing the first input signal and based on the first input signal And a receiver for providing an audio output signal based on the processor output signal, wherein the auditory system changes the first primary setting of the hearing device to the first secondary setting. And the hearing device outputs a secondary audio output signal according to the first secondary setting upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Configured.

  Optionally, the auditory system is configured to output a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting before detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting.

  Optionally, the hearing system includes an accessory device wirelessly connectable to the hearing device, the accessory device includes an accessory device user interface, wherein the accessory device user interface sets the first primary setting of the hearing device to the first secondary device. Configured to obtain user input indicating a change to setting.

  Optionally, the accessory device is configured to determine a secondary output signal indicative of the secondary audio output signal and wirelessly transmit the secondary output signal to the hearing device.

  Optionally, the accessory device includes a loudspeaker, and the accessory device is configured to obtain a secondary audio input signal to the hearing device and output the secondary audio input signal through the loudspeaker.

  Optionally, the accessory device wirelessly transmits a control signal that controls the hearing device to output a secondary audio output signal upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Composed.

  Optionally, the hearing device is configured to select a secondary audio output signal from a plurality of audio output signals in the hearing device memory based on the first secondary setting.

  Optionally, the first secondary setting includes one or more gain parameters of the hearing device.

  Optionally, the first secondary setting includes one or more filter parameters of the hearing device.

  Optionally, the first secondary setting includes one or more beamforming parameters of the hearing device.

  Optionally, the first secondary setting includes one or more noise cancellation parameters of the hearing device.

  Optionally, the first secondary setting includes one or more equalizer parameters of the hearing device.

  Optionally, the hearing system is configured to obtain a user input indicating changing the second primary setting of the hearing device to a second secondary setting, wherein the hearing device is configured to receive the second primary setting from the second primary setting. When a change to the secondary setting is detected, a secondary audio output signal is output according to the second secondary setting.

  In a method implemented by a hearing system including a hearing device, the hearing device is an input module for providing a first input signal, the input module including a first microphone, processing the first input signal, and the first A processor that provides a processor output signal based on the input signal and a receiver that provides an audio output signal based on the processor output signal. The method obtains user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting, and upon detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. , Including outputting a secondary audio output signal by the receiver in accordance with the first secondary setting.

  An accessory device for a hearing system, including a hearing device, includes an accessory device user interface and a processor, the accessory device user interface indicating changing a first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting. The hearing device is configured to obtain an input and outputs a secondary audio output signal according to the first secondary setting upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Configured to control.

  Other characteristics will be described in detail in the following detailed description.

These and other features and advantages will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary hearing system. FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a further exemplary hearing system. FIG. 3 schematically illustrates another exemplary hearing system. FIG. 4 schematically illustrates an exemplary attachment device. FIG. 5 schematically illustrates an exemplary method. FIG. 6 schematically illustrates an exemplary method.

  Various exemplary embodiments and details are described below with reference to the associated drawings. It should be noted that the drawings may or may not be to scale, and elements of similar structure or function are represented by like reference numerals throughout the drawings. It should also be noted that the drawings are only intended to facilitate the description of the embodiments. The drawings are not intended to be a comprehensive description of the claimed invention or to limit the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, the illustrated embodiments need not have all of the aspects or advantages shown. The aspects or advantages described in connection with a particular embodiment are not necessarily limited to that embodiment, and may not be so illustrated or explicitly described as such. Any other embodiment can be implemented.

  A hearing system including a hearing device is disclosed. The hearing device may be a hearing aid or a hearable. The hearing device may be of the ear hook (BTE) type, ear ear (ITE) type, ear canal insertion (ITC) type, ear canal receiver insertion (RIC) type, or ear ear receiver insertion (RITE) type. The processor may be configured to compensate for the hearing loss of the user. The hearing aid may be a binaural hearing aid. The hearing system may include an accessory device. The attached device may be a mobile phone such as a smartphone. The attached device may be a remote control device.

  The hearing device includes an input module for supplying a first input signal, and the input module includes a first microphone for supplying a first microphone signal. The first microphone signal may be a first input signal. The input module may include a second microphone for providing a second microphone signal. The input module may include a first beamformer for providing a beamform signal. The first beamformer may be connected to the first microphone and the second microphone and configured to provide a beamform signal based on the first microphone signal and the second microphone signal. The beamform signal from the first beamformer may be a first input signal. Thus, the input module optionally includes a second microphone and a first beamformer that is connected to the first microphone and the second microphone and is based on the first and second microphone signals as the first input signal. Configured to provide a beamform signal.

  The hearing device includes a processor that processes the first input signal and provides a processor output signal based on the first input signal.

  The hearing device includes a receiver for converting an output signal based on the processor output signal into an audio output signal.

  The hearing device optionally includes a transceiver module for communicating (receiving and / or transmitting) with the accessory device of the hearing system and / or the opposite hearing device. The transceiver module may include an antenna that converts one or more wireless input signals from the attached device into antenna output signals. The transceiver module optionally includes a radio transceiver coupled to the antenna that converts the antenna output signal to a transceiver input signal. The transceiver input signal may include an audio stream from the accessory device and / or the contralateral hearing device and / or one or more control signals. The transceiver module may include multiple antennas and / or one antenna that may be configured to operate in one or more antenna modes.

  The hearing system is configured to receive and detect a user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting. Accordingly, the hearing system may include one or more user interfaces for receiving and / or detecting user input. For example, the hearing device may include a hearing device user interface that receives user input. The hearing device user interface may include one or more buttons and / or a voice control unit. The accessory device may include an accessory device user interface. The accessory device user interface may include a touch-sensitive surface, such as a touch display and / or one or more buttons. The accessory device user interface may include a voice control unit. The hearing device user interface may include one or more physical sliders, knobs and / or push buttons. The accessory device user interface may include one or more physical or virtual (on-screen) sliders, knobs and / or push buttons.

  In one or more exemplary auditory systems, the hearing device, for example, upon detection of a change from a first primary setting to a first secondary setting, outputs a secondary audio output signal, eg, according to the first secondary setting. Configured to output.

  A hearing system, for example a hearing device, for example, before detecting a change from a first primary setting to a first secondary setting and / or before outputting a secondary audio output signal, optionally in accordance with the first primary setting It may be configured to output an output signal. The primary audio output signal may be different from the secondary audio output signal. By outputting the primary output signal prior to detecting the change and / or outputting the secondary audio output signal, the user can immediately compare and evaluate whether changes in the hearing device settings have improved the listening experience.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more gain parameters of the hearing device.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more filter parameters of the hearing device.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more beamforming parameters of the hearing device.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more noise cancellation parameters of the hearing device.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more equalizer parameters of the hearing device.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more parameters of the hearing device (tinnitus masker) for managing or reducing tinnitus.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more frequency reduction parameters of the hearing device.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more extended parameters of the hearing device.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more compression parameters of the hearing device.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more parameters of the hearing device to increase spatial recognition.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more parameters of the hearing device to increase listening comfort.

  Settings such as the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting may include one or more parameters of the hearing device to increase situational awareness.

  For example, the first primary setting may include a first gain parameter comprising a first value in the first primary setting and a second value different from the first value in the first secondary setting.

  For example, the first primary setting includes a first noise cancellation parameter comprising a first value in the first primary setting and a second value different from the first value in the first secondary setting. Good.

  For example, the first primary setting may include a first beamforming parameter comprising a first value in the first primary setting and a second value different from the first value in the first secondary setting. .

  For example, the first primary setting may include a first equalizer parameter comprising a first value in the first primary setting and a second value different from the first value in the first secondary setting.

  For example, the first primary setting may include a first filter parameter comprising a first value in the first primary setting and a second value different from the first value in the first secondary setting.

  The accessory device may be configured to determine a primary output signal indicative of the primary audio output signal, optionally based on the first primary setting, and wirelessly transmit the primary output signal to the hearing device. Wireless transmission of the primary output signal to the hearing device allows evaluation with limited or no ambient noise and / or low signal processing / memory in the hearing device. The accessory device optionally includes a transceiver module for wireless communication (reception and / or transmission) with one or more hearing devices of the hearing system. The transceiver module is connected to the processor and may include an antenna for transmitting and / or receiving one or more wireless signals to and from the hearing device. The transceiver module optionally includes a wireless transceiver connected to the antenna. The transceiver module may include multiple antennas and / or one antenna that may be configured to operate in one or more antenna modes.

  The accessory device may include a loudspeaker, and the accessory device is optionally configured to obtain a primary audio input signal to the hearing device and output the primary audio input signal through the loudspeaker. The accessory device may be configured to output a primary audio input signal through the loudspeaker upon detection of activation of the setting adjustment mode in the accessory device.

  Obtaining the primary audio input signal to the hearing device may include determining a primary audio input signal to the hearing device based on the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting. The primary audio input signal may indicate a primary audio output signal.

  The accessory device wirelessly transmits a control signal for controlling the hearing device to output a primary audio output signal, for example, before detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. May be configured. The accessory device may be configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal for controlling the hearing device to output a primary audio output signal, for example, upon detection of activation of the setting adjustment mode in the accessory device.

  The hearing system optionally includes an accessory device. The accessory device may be wirelessly connectable to the hearing device and optionally includes an accessory device user interface. The accessory device user interface may be configured to receive and detect user input indicative of a change from the first primary setting of the hearing device to the first secondary setting.

  The accessory device may be configured to determine a secondary output signal indicative of the secondary audio output signal, optionally based on the first secondary setting, and wirelessly transmit the secondary output signal to the hearing device. Wireless transmission of the secondary output signal to the hearing device allows evaluation with or without ambient noise.

  The accessory device may include a loudspeaker, and the accessory device is optionally configured to obtain a secondary audio input signal to the hearing device and output the secondary audio input signal through the loudspeaker. The secondary audio input signal may be constant.

  Obtaining a secondary audio input signal to the hearing device may include determining a secondary audio input signal to the hearing device based on the first primary setting and / or the first secondary setting. . The secondary audio input signal may indicate a secondary audio output signal.

  For example, when the change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting is detected, the accessory device wirelessly transmits a control signal for controlling the hearing device to output the secondary audio output signal. For example, by changing the sound processing settings (gain, filter, noise cancellation, etc.) of the hearing device, the audio output signal from the hearing device, for example, differs when the previous input signal is used as a reference. Make it audible.

  The control signal transmitted from the accessory device to the hearing device may indicate the first secondary setting.

  The control signal transmitted from the accessory device to the hearing device may indicate a secondary audio output signal. For example, the hearing device may generate and / or output a secondary sound output signal in response to receiving a control signal from the accessory device, for example, based on the sound output signal stored in the memory of the hearing device and / or the characteristics of the sound output. May be configured to. The secondary audio output signal is selected from, for example, at least a few or more different secondary audio output signals / audio output characteristics stored in the memory of the hearing device, for example, based on a control signal from the accessory device. / Or may be generated.

  In one or more exemplary hearing systems, wireless transmission of control signals to the hearing device may be combined with the output of the secondary audio input signal through a loudspeaker. The secondary audio input signal may be constant. Thus, the hearing device is controlled, for example, whether to apply the first secondary setting to the secondary audio input or to apply the initial setting to the secondary audio input. The application of the default settings may be used in an exemplary auditory system where an accessory device adjusts the secondary audio input signal.

  In one or more exemplary hearing systems, wireless transmission of the control signal to the hearing device may be combined with wireless transmission of the secondary output signal to the hearing device.

  The hearing device may be configured to select a secondary sound output signal from a plurality of sound output signals in the hearing device memory based on the first secondary setting.

  The hearing system may be configured to receive and detect user input indicative of a change from a second primary setting to a second secondary setting of the hearing device. The hearing device may be configured to output a secondary audio output signal according to the second secondary setting, for example, upon detection of a change from the second primary setting to the second secondary setting.

  The second primary setting and / or the second secondary setting may include one or more gain parameters of the hearing device. The second primary setting and / or the second secondary setting may include one or more filter parameters of the hearing device. The second primary setting and / or the second secondary setting may include one or more beamforming parameters of the hearing device. The second primary setting and / or the second secondary setting may include one or more noise cancellation parameters of the hearing device. The second primary setting and / or the second secondary setting may include one or more equalizer parameters of the hearing device.

  In one or more exemplary auditory systems, the secondary audio output signal can be a continuous and consistent sound with continuous control, such as knobs and sliders, which can be controlled for control. It begins immediately (when a change in setting is detected) and continues immediately after the last adjustment is made, eg, until the setting adjustment mode is exited and / or until the changed setting is accepted.

  In one or more exemplary auditory systems, the secondary audio output signal may be output for a period of time by using a separate part of the user interface, such as a button. Each time the button is continuously pressed, the audio output signal may continue.

  The hearing system, such as an accessory device or hearing device, may be configured to receive and detect user input indicative of approval of the first secondary setting of the hearing device, wherein the hearing device accepts the first secondary setting. The first secondary setting is configured to be applied to the hearing device at the time when is detected. User input indicating approval of the first secondary setting of the hearing device may include user activation of an accept button on a user interface, eg, an accessory device user interface. A user input indicating approval of the first secondary setting of the hearing device may be detected as the user does not change the first secondary setting during the acceptance period. Thus, the user may accept the first secondary setting by making no further input during the acceptance period. The acceptance period may be 10 to 40 seconds, for example about 15, 20, 25, or 30 seconds.

  When the accessory device detects acceptance of the first secondary setting, it may send a control signal, optionally with the first secondary setting, to the hearing device, the control signal indicating acceptance by the user. After receiving the control signal indicating acceptance by the user, the hearing device applies the first secondary setting to the hearing device and / or stores the first secondary setting in memory.

  Further disclosed is a method for evaluating settings of a hearing device in a hearing system including the hearing device. The hearing system includes a hearing device. The hearing device is an input module for providing a first input signal, an input module including a first microphone; processing the first input signal and providing an output signal from a processor based on the first input signal A processor that converts the output signal into an audio output signal based on the output signal from the processor.

  User input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting, for example, by a hearing device user interface of a hearing device or by an accessory device user interface of an accessory device of a hearing system Receiving and detecting.

  The method includes outputting a secondary audio output signal by the receiver according to the first secondary setting, for example upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting.

  The method includes, for example, prior to detecting a change from a first primary setting to a first secondary setting and / or upon detecting activation of a setting adjustment mode in an accessory device, a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting. May be output.

  FIG. 1 shows an exemplary hearing system. The hearing system 1 includes a hearing device 2 and an accessory device 4. The hearing device 2 includes a transceiver module 6 for (wireless) communication with an accessory device and optionally an opposite hearing device (not shown in FIG. 1). The transceiver module 6 includes an antenna 8 and a transceiver 10 and is configured to receive and / or transmit wireless signals from the accessory device 4. The hearing device 2 includes an input module 12 for providing a first input signal 14, which includes a first microphone 16 and a first microphone input signal 16A and a second microphone input signal 18A, respectively. A second microphone 18 is included. The input module 12 optionally includes a beamforming module 20 connected to the first microphone 16 and the second microphone 18 for receiving and processing the first microphone input signal 16A and the second microphone input signal 18A. The beamforming module 20 supplies or outputs a beamform signal 20A based on the first microphone input signal 16A and the second microphone input signal 18A. The hearing device includes a processor 22 and the beamform signal 20A is fed into the processor 22 as the first input signal 14. The processor 22 processes the first input signal 14 and provides a processor output signal 24 based on the first input signal 14. The hearing device 2 includes a receiver 26 for converting an output signal based on the processor output signal 24 into an audio output signal, that is, for supplying an audio output signal.

  The accessory device 4 is a smartphone and includes an accessory device user interface 30 including a touch display 32 and a processor (not shown). The accessory device 4 is in a setting adjustment mode in which the user can adjust the settings of the hearing device.

  The accessory device user interface 30 includes a first virtual slider 34 with a handle 36. The accessory device user interface 30 is by the user touching the handle 36 and dragging it from the first position 40 corresponding to the first primary setting to the second position 42 corresponding to the first secondary setting. , Configured to receive and detect user input indicative of a change from a first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting.

  Upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting (the handle 36 moves from the first position 40 to the second position 42), the accessory processor changes to the first secondary setting. A secondary output signal indicative of the secondary audio output signal is determined based on and configured to transmit the secondary output signal 44 to the hearing device wirelessly. At the same time, the accessory device wirelessly transmits a control signal 46 to the hearing device 2. Upon receipt of the control signal 46, the hearing device switches to wireless streaming and optionally the hearing device's default settings, receives the secondary output signal wirelessly, and streams the secondary output signal 44 to produce the secondary audio output signal. Output. In this way, the secondary audio output signal is output according to the first secondary setting set by the user in the attached device 4. Note that secondary output signal 44, control signal 46, and primary output signal 48 are wireless signals transmitted through the transceiver module 50 of the accessory device. This allows the first secondary setting to be evaluated without ambient sounds affecting the audio signal presented to the user.

  Furthermore, the auditory system 1 of FIG. 1 is configured to output a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting before detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. When the processor of the accessory device 4 enters the setting adjustment mode, for example, when the user touches the handle 36 of the accessory device user interface 30 or activates the (virtual) start button 47 before changing the setting, the primary sound is transmitted. A primary output signal indicative of the output signal is determined based on the first primary setting, and the primary output signal 48 is configured to be transmitted wirelessly to the hearing device. At the same time, the accessory device wirelessly transmits a control signal 46 to the hearing device 2. Upon receipt of the control signal 46, the hearing device switches to wireless streaming and optionally to the initial settings of the hearing device, receives the primary output signal 48 wirelessly and streams the primary output signal 48, thereby outputting a primary audio output signal. . In this way, the primary audio output signal is output according to the first primary setting in the attachment device 4. The user accepts or approves the current setting, eg, the first secondary setting, by activating the (virtual) accept button 49 of the accessory device user interface 30. Upon detecting acceptance of the first secondary setting, the accessory device sends a control signal indicating acceptance by the user to the hearing device along with the first secondary setting. After receiving the control signal indicating acceptance by the user, the hearing device applies the first secondary setting to the hearing device and / or stores the first secondary setting in the memory of the hearing device.

  FIG. 2 shows another exemplary auditory system that is different from the auditory system of FIG. The hearing system 1A includes a hearing device 2 and an accessory device 4A. The hearing device 2 includes a transceiver module 6 for (wireless) communication with an accessory device and optionally an opposite hearing device (not shown in FIG. 1). The transceiver module 6 includes an antenna 8 and a transceiver 10 and is configured to receive and / or transmit wireless signals from the accessory device 4A. The hearing device 2 includes an input module 12 for providing a first input signal 14, which includes a first microphone 16 and a first microphone input signal 16A and a second microphone input signal 18A, respectively. A second microphone 18 is included. The input module 12 optionally includes a beamforming module 20 connected to the first microphone 16 and the second microphone 18 for receiving and processing the first microphone input signal 16A and the second microphone input signal 18A. The beamforming module 20 supplies or outputs a beamform signal 20A based on the first microphone input signal 16A and the second microphone input signal 18A. The hearing device includes a processor 22, and the beamform signal 20 </ b> A is sent to the processor 22 as the first input signal 14. The processor 22 processes the first input signal 14 and provides a processor output signal 24 based on the first input signal 14. The hearing device 2 includes a receiver 26 for converting an output signal based on the processor output signal 24 into an audio output signal.

  The accessory device 4A is a smartphone and includes an accessory device user interface 30 including a touch display 32 and a processor (not shown). The attached device 4A is in a setting adjustment mode in which the user can adjust the settings of the hearing device. The attached device 4 </ b> A includes a loudspeaker 54.

  The accessory device user interface 30 includes a first virtual slider 34 with a handle 36. The accessory device user interface 30 is by the user touching the handle 36 and dragging it from the first position 40 corresponding to the first primary setting to the second position 42 corresponding to the first secondary setting. , Configured to receive and detect user input indicative of a change from a first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting.

  When the processor of the accessory device detects, for example, a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting (the handle 36 is moved from the first position 40 to the second position 42), the secondary to the hearing device is detected. An audio input signal 56 is obtained and configured to output a secondary audio input signal 56 through the loudspeaker 54. At the same time, the attached device 4A transmits the control signal 46 to the hearing device 2 wirelessly. The control signal 46 may indicate a first secondary setting. The hearing device receives the secondary audio input signal via the input module and optionally outputs the secondary audio output by processing the secondary audio input signal 56 within the audio device according to the control signal 46 and / or the first secondary setting. Output a signal. In this way, the secondary audio output signal is output according to the first secondary setting set by the user in the attached device 4.

  Furthermore, the auditory system 1A of FIG. 2 is optionally configured to output a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting before detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. The The processor of the accessory device 4 may, for example, enter the setting adjustment mode, when the user touches the handle 36 of the accessory device user interface 30 or activates the (virtual) start button 47 before changing the setting. Is configured to obtain a primary audio input signal 58 and output a primary audio input signal 58 through the loudspeaker 54. At the same time, the accessory device 4 wirelessly transmits a control signal 46 to the hearing device 2. The control signal 46 may indicate a first primary setting. The hearing device receives the primary audio input signal through the input module and optionally outputs a primary audio output signal by processing the primary audio input signal 58 within the audio device according to the control signal 46 and / or the first primary setting. . As described above, the primary audio output signal is output in accordance with the first primary setting set by the user in the attached device 4. In one or more exemplary auditory systems, the control signal 46 includes the current settings shown on the accessory device user interface, and the primary and secondary audio input signals are the same signal. The user accepts or approves the current setting, eg, the first secondary setting, by activating the (virtual) accept button 49 of the accessory device user interface 30. Upon detecting acceptance of the first secondary setting, the accessory device sends a control signal indicating acceptance by the user, optionally with the first secondary setting, to the hearing device. After receiving the control signal indicating acceptance by the user, the hearing device applies the first secondary setting to the hearing device and / or stores the first secondary setting in the memory of the hearing device.

  FIG. 3 shows another exemplary hearing system. The hearing system 1B includes a hearing device 2 and an accessory device 4B. The auxiliary device 4B is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal for controlling the output of the secondary audio output signal from the hearing device upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Is done. In the auditory system 1B, the control signal 46 indicates the first secondary setting, and the auditory apparatus 2 receives the secondary audio output signal from the plurality of audio output signals in the memory of the auditory apparatus based on the first secondary setting. Configured to select. The hearing device 2 outputs the selected secondary audio output signal through the receiver 26.

  FIG. 4 shows an exemplary accessory device of a hearing system. The attachment device 4C may be used in the hearing systems 1, 1A, 1B. The accessory device 4C is a smartphone, and includes an accessory device user interface 30 including a touch display 32 and a processor (not shown). The attached device 4C is in a setting adjustment mode in which the user can adjust the settings of the hearing device. The attached device 4 </ b> A includes a loudspeaker 54.

  In addition to the first virtual slider 34 detailed above, the accessory device user interface 30 includes a second virtual slider 60 with a handle 62. The accessory device user interface 30 is by the user touching the handle 62 and dragging it from the first position 64 corresponding to the second primary setting to the second position 66 corresponding to the second secondary setting. , Configured to receive and detect user input indicative of a change from a second primary setting of the hearing device to a second secondary setting.

  The accessory device 4C determines and transmits one or more of the signals 44, 46, 48, 56, 58 based on the second secondary setting and optionally the current first setting (first virtual slider 34). . The hearing device of the hearing system may, for example as described with respect to FIGS. It is configured to output a signal. The user accepts or approves the current first and second settings by activating the (virtual) accept button 49 of the accessory device user interface 30. Upon detecting acceptance of the first and second settings, the accessory device transmits a control signal indicating acceptance by the user, optionally with the current first and second settings, to the hearing device. After the hearing device receives a control signal indicating acceptance by the user, the current first and second settings are applied to the hearing device and / or the current first and second settings are stored in the hearing device memory. save.

  FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for evaluating hearing device settings in a hearing system that includes a hearing device. The hearing system includes a hearing device. The hearing device is an input module for providing a first input signal, an input module including a first microphone; a processor for processing the first input signal and providing a processor output signal based on the first input signal And a receiver that converts the output signal to an audio output signal based on the processor output signal. The method 100 receives and detects (102) user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting, and the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Outputting a secondary audio output signal by the receiver in accordance with the first secondary setting upon detection of a change to (104). The method 100 further includes outputting a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting before detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting.

  In method 100, outputting the secondary audio output signal by the receiver according to the first secondary setting (104) optionally determining and outputting the secondary audio input signal by the accessory device (108). Including. In method 100, outputting the secondary audio output signal by the receiver according to the first secondary setting (104) optionally includes determining the control signal by the accessory device and transmitting (110) wirelessly. For example, the control signal indicates a first secondary setting.

  FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for evaluating hearing device settings in a hearing system that includes a hearing device. The hearing system includes a hearing device. The hearing device is an input module for providing a first input signal, an input module including a first microphone; a processor for processing the first input signal and providing a processor output signal based on the first input signal And a receiver that converts the output signal to an audio output signal based on the processor output signal. The method 200 receives and detects (202) user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting, and the first secondary setting to the first secondary setting. Outputting a secondary audio output signal by the receiver in accordance with the first secondary setting upon detection of a change to (204). The method 200 further includes outputting a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting before detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting.

  In method 200, outputting a secondary audio output signal by a receiver according to a first secondary setting (204) optionally determining a secondary output signal by an accessory device and transmitting wirelessly (208). including. In method 200, outputting a secondary audio output signal by a receiver according to a first secondary setting (204) optionally includes determining a control signal by an accessory device and transmitting (210) wirelessly. For example, the control signal indicates a first secondary setting.

  The use of terms such as “first”, “second”, “third” and “fourth”, “primary”, “secondary” does not indicate any order, but identifies individual elements To be included. Furthermore, the use of terms such as first, second, etc. does not imply any order or significance, and terms such as first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another. . The first, second, etc. terms used everywhere are used for sign purposes only and are not intended to indicate any particular spatial or temporal order unless otherwise indicated. Please note that. Furthermore, the indicator of the first element does not imply the presence of the second element, and vice versa.

  While features have been shown and described, it will be understood that these features are not intended to limit the invention described in the claims, and the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the invention. The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The claimed invention is intended to embrace all alternatives, modifications and equivalents.

The following items are elements described in the scope of claims of the present application.
[Item 1]
A hearing system including a hearing device, wherein the hearing device is an input module for supplying a first input signal, the input module including a first microphone,
A processor that processes the first input signal and provides a processor output signal based on the first input signal; and a receiver that provides an audio output signal based on the processor output signal;
The auditory system is configured to obtain user input indicating changing a first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting;
An auditory system configured to output a secondary audio output signal according to the first secondary setting when the hearing device detects a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting.
[Item 2]
Item 1 wherein the auditory system is configured to output a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting before detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Auditory system as described in.
[Item 3]
The hearing system includes an accessory device that is wirelessly connectable to the hearing device;
The accessory device includes an accessory device user interface;
Item 3. The item 1, wherein the accessory device user interface is configured to obtain the user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to the first secondary setting. Hearing system.
[Item 4]
The accessory device is
Determining a secondary output signal indicative of the secondary audio output signal;
4. The auditory system of item 3, configured to wirelessly transmit the secondary output signal to the hearing device.
[Item 5]
The accessory device includes a loudspeaker;
The accessory device is
Obtaining a secondary audio input signal to the hearing device;
4. The auditory system of item 3, configured to output the secondary audio input signal through the loudspeaker.
[Item 6]
When the accessory device detects a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting, it wirelessly transmits a control signal for controlling the hearing device to output the secondary audio output signal. 6. A hearing system according to any one of items 3 to 5, configured to transmit.
[Item 7]
Any of items 1-6, wherein the hearing device is configured to select the secondary sound output signal from a plurality of sound output signals in a memory of the hearing device based on the first secondary setting. The auditory system according to claim 1.
[Item 8]
8. A hearing system according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the first secondary setting includes one or more gain parameters of the hearing device.
[Item 9]
9. A hearing system according to any of items 1 to 8, wherein the first secondary setting includes one or more filter parameters of the hearing device.
[Item 10]
10. A hearing system according to any one of items 1 to 9, wherein the first secondary setting includes one or more beamforming parameters of the hearing device.
[Item 11]
11. A hearing system according to any one of items 1 to 10, wherein the first secondary setting includes one or more noise cancellation parameters of the hearing device.
[Item 12]
12. A hearing system according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the first secondary setting includes one or more equalizer parameters of the hearing device.
[Item 13]
The hearing system is configured to obtain a user input indicating changing a second primary setting of the hearing device to a second secondary setting;
The hearing instrument is configured to output the secondary audio output signal according to the second secondary setting upon detection of a change from the second primary setting to the second secondary setting. The hearing system according to any one of 1 to 12.
[Item 14]
A method implemented by a hearing system including a hearing device, wherein the hearing device is an input module for providing a first input signal, the input module including a first microphone, and processing the first input signal. A processor for supplying an output signal from the processor based on the first input signal, and a receiver for supplying an audio output signal based on the output signal from the processor,
The method comprises
Acquiring user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting, and upon detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting And outputting a secondary audio output signal by the receiver according to the first secondary setting.
[Item 15]
An accessory device for a hearing system including a hearing device,
Includes accessory device user interface and processor,
The accessory device user interface is configured to obtain a user input indicating changing a first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting;
The processor controls the hearing device to output a secondary audio output signal according to the first secondary setting upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Attached equipment composed of.

1, 1A Auditory system 2 Auditory device 4, 4A Accessory device 6 Transmitter / receiver module 8 Antenna 10 Transmitter / receiver / radio unit 12 Input module 14 First input signal 16 First microphone 16A First microphone input signal 18 Second microphone 18A Second Microphone input signal 20 Beamforming module 20A Beamform signal 22 Processor 24 Processor output signal 26 Receiver 30 Accessory device user interface 32 Touch display 34 First virtual slider 36 Handle 40 First position of handle 42 Second position of handle 44 Second Next output signal 46 Control signal 47 Start button 48 Primary output signal 49 Accept button 50 Transmitter / receiver module of attached device 54 Loud of attached device Speaker 56 Secondary audio input signal 58 Primary audio input signal 60 Second virtual slider 62 Handle 64 First position of handle 66 Second position of handle 100 Method for evaluating settings of hearing device in auditory system 102 Receiving user input And outputting 104 outputting a secondary audio output signal by the receiver according to the first secondary setting 106 outputting a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting 108 outputting the secondary audio input signal by the accessory device Determining and outputting 110 Determining control signals by an accessory device and transmitting wirelessly 200 Method of evaluating hearing device settings in a hearing system 202 Receiving and detecting user input 204 According to a first secondary setting Secondary audio output signal by receiver 206 Outputs the primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting 208 Determines the secondary output signal by the accessory device and transmits it wirelessly 210 Determines the control signal by the accessory device and transmits it wirelessly To do

Claims (15)

A hearing system including a hearing device,
An input module for the hearing device to provide a first input signal, the input module including a first microphone;
A processor that processes the first input signal and provides a processor output signal based on the first input signal; and a receiver that provides an audio output signal based on the processor output signal;
The auditory system is configured to obtain user input indicating changing a first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting;
An auditory system, wherein the hearing device is configured to output a secondary audio output signal according to the first secondary setting upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting .   The auditory system is configured to output a primary audio output signal according to the first primary setting before detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. The hearing system according to 1. The hearing system includes an accessory device that is wirelessly connectable to the hearing device;
The accessory device includes an accessory device user interface;
The accessory device user interface is configured to obtain the user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to the first secondary setting. Auditory system. The accessory device is
Determining a secondary output signal indicative of the secondary audio output signal;
The auditory system of claim 3, configured to wirelessly transmit the secondary output signal to the hearing device. The accessory device includes a loudspeaker;
The accessory device is
Obtaining a secondary audio input signal to the hearing device;
The auditory system of claim 3, configured to output the secondary audio input signal through the loudspeaker.   When the accessory device detects a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting, it wirelessly transmits a control signal for controlling the hearing device to output the secondary audio output signal. 6. A hearing system according to any one of claims 3 to 5 configured to transmit.   The hearing device of claim 1, wherein the hearing device is configured to select the secondary sound output signal from a plurality of sound output signals in a memory of the hearing device based on the first secondary setting. The hearing system according to any one of the above.   8. A hearing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first secondary setting includes one or more gain parameters of the hearing device.   9. A hearing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first secondary setting comprises one or more filter parameters of the hearing device.   10. A hearing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first secondary setting comprises one or more beamforming parameters of the hearing device.   11. The hearing system according to claim 1, wherein the first secondary setting includes one or more noise cancellation parameters of the hearing device.   12. A hearing system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first secondary setting comprises one or more equalizer parameters of the hearing device. The hearing system is configured to obtain a user input indicating changing a second primary setting of the hearing device to a second secondary setting;
The hearing device is configured to output the secondary audio output signal according to the second secondary setting upon detection of a change from the second primary setting to the second secondary setting. The hearing system according to any one of Items 1 to 12. A method implemented by a hearing system including a hearing device, wherein the hearing device is an input module for providing a first input signal, the input module including a first microphone, and processing the first input signal. And a processor for supplying a processor output signal based on the first input signal, and a receiver for supplying an audio output signal based on the processor output signal,
The method comprises
Acquiring user input indicating changing the first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting, and upon detecting a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting And outputting a secondary audio output signal by the receiver according to the first secondary setting. An accessory device for a hearing system including a hearing device,
Includes accessory device user interface and processor,
The accessory device user interface is configured to obtain a user input indicating changing a first primary setting of the hearing device to a first secondary setting;
The processor controls the hearing device to output a secondary audio output signal according to the first secondary setting upon detection of a change from the first primary setting to the first secondary setting. Attached equipment composed of.

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