WO2007052189A2

WO2007052189A2 - Hearing aid system and method

Info

Publication number: WO2007052189A2
Application number: PCT/IB2006/053941
Authority: WO
Inventors: Daniel W. E. Schobben
Original assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
Priority date: 2005-11-01
Filing date: 2006-10-26
Publication date: 2007-05-10
Also published as: WO2007052189A3

Abstract

Hearing aid system, including a hearing aid device (1), the hearing aid device (1) at least having a hearing aid mode to aid a user in hearing sound, and a hearing test mode to test the hearing of the user, wherein the hearing aid device (1) is configured to generate one or more test sounds during the test mode, wherein the system comprises a user interface (20) which is operable by the user to control the generation of the one or more test sounds, and/or to indicate if and/or when the user hears a test sound.

Description

Hearing aid system and method

The invention relates to a hearing aid system, including a hearing aid device. Hearing aid devices are known from the prior art. Generally, the known hearing aid device can detect sounds, originating from an environment of a user. The known hearing aid device can amplify and/or process the detected sounds, and feed the amplified/processed sounds to the ear of the user. In this way, the hearing aid device can at least partly compensate for a hearing loss of the user. Various types of hearing devices are known, for example devices that can be positioned substantially in part of the ear canal of a user, devices that are positioned in the outer ear of the user, or other types of hearing aid devices. For example, one ear or both ears of the user can be provided with a suitable hearing aid device.

Usually, gain parameters of the hearing aid device have to be adjusted, based on the hearing loss of the respective ear (or ears) of the user. Traditionally, such an adjustment is carried out in a clinic by an audiologist. Knowing the hearing loss, the audio logist can adapt the gain of the hearing aid device. However, such a hearing test takes a lot of time and effort of the patient, as well as expenses such as a fee of the audiologist and travel costs. Besides, usually, such a hearing test is only performed once a year, during a check-up at the audiologist. In addition, a first time user may appreciate different settings during first use and different settings after prolonged use. Thus, the user of the hearing aid device can still encounter hearing problems due to intermediate hearing loss variations. The present invention aims to solve, or at least alleviate the above-mentioned problems. Particularly, the present invention aims to provide a more user friendly, relatively inexpensive simple hearing aid system.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a hearing aid system, including a hearing aid device, the hearing aid device at least having a hearing aid mode to aid a user in hearing sound, and a hearing test mode to test the hearing of the user, wherein the hearing aid device is configured to generate one or more test sounds during the test mode, wherein the system comprises a user interface which is operable by the user to control the generation of the one or more test sounds, and/or to indicate if and/or when the user hears a test sound. For example, the user of the system can carry out a hearing test, preferably without the help of an audio logist. The system can carry out the hearing test in an inexpensive user- friendly way, wherein the hearing aid device as such generated one or more suitable hearing test sounds. Preferably, the user can operate the user interface to control the generation of the test sounds, as well as to indicate hearing test sounds. Alternatively, the user interface can be configured to be operated to provide a control of test sound generation, or to provide an indicating means concerning the detection of test sounds. Besides, during and/or after the hearing test, the hearing aid device can be adjusted in a simple manner, particularly by the user hem/herself, or automatically, based on the results of the hearing test. Also, an aspect of the invention provides a method to test a hearing of a user of a hearing aid device, for example utilizing a system according to the invention, wherein the hearing aid device generates one or more test sounds in or near an ear canal of a user during a hearing test mode of the device, wherein a user interface is provided, wherein the user interface is operated by the user to control the test mode of the hearing aid device, and/or to indicate if and/or when the user hears the test sound. This provides above-mentioned advantages. Also, an aspect of the invention provides a computer program with instructions arranged for carrying out a method according to any one of claims 17-23 when said program is executed by a computer, for example by a personal computer (PC) and/or portable computer. As an example, such a program can be loaded in a personal computer, laptop, personal digital assistant (PDA) or other computer device, to carry out at least part of the method according to the invention at a desired location, such as at home.

Besides, an aspect of the invention relates to a hearing aid device, for example a device of a system according to the invention.

International application WO 98/16068 discloses a hearing instrument, wherein the instrument comprises an interface for wireless programming of signal processing means, wherein during use program codes are being received via an audio input of the instrument. Such an instrument can be programmed by audio embedded programming codes. A disadvantage of this known instrument is, that it is not safe in use. For example, the hearing aid device can accidentally pick-up programming codes meant for an other device, such as a device of a different user, or pick-up audio, which contains programming-codes by chance. Also, the device might be programmed by anybody, of example by a user of the hearing aid device, but also by persons with bad intentions towards the user.

An aspect of the present invention aims to provide an improved hearing aid device. According to an aspect of the invention, this is simply achieved by a hearing aid device, which at least has a control mode, for example a programming mode, in which mode the hearing aid device is configured to be wirelessly controlled using audio embedded control signals, wherein the hearing aid device is configured to automatically enter a control signal detection period of the control mode at a start-up of the hearing aid device, wherein the hearing aid device is configured to detect audio embedded control signals during the control signal detection period, wherein the hearing aid device is configured to leave the control mode and to enter a subsequent hearing aid mode in case the device does not detect audio embedded control signals during the control signal detection period, wherein the hearing aid device is configured not to be wirelessly controlled using audio embedded control signals during the hearing aid mode.

Moreover, an aspect of the invention provides a method to program a hearing aid device, for example a device according to claim 15, wherein the hearing aid device enters a programming signal detection period first, for example at a start-up of the hearing aid device, to detect audio embedded programming signals, wherein the hearing aid device is being wirelessly programmed by audio embedded programming signals in case the hearing aid device has received such signals during the programming signal detection period, wherein the hearing aid device switches to a hearing aid mode in case no programming signals have been received during the programming signal detection period, wherein the hearing aid device can not be programmed by audio embedded signals during the hearing aid mode. Besides, an aspect of the invention relates to an apparatus comprising a voltage source. Such an apparatus can be a hearing aid device, but also any other apparatus comprising a voltage source, such as a battery containing user device, consumer electronics, a transportation apparatus and/or a different apparatus. For example, US 5,916,698 discloses an apparatus comprising a holder for holding a voltage source. In this known apparatus, the holder is adapted to allow the voltage source to power the apparatus both when the voltage source is in a first position in the holder, and when the voltage source is in a second (alternative) position in the holder.

An aspect of the present invention aims to improve the apparatus. According to this aspect, the voltage source is adjustable between at least a first and a second position in a voltage source holder of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is configured to be at least partly powered by the voltage source both when the voltage source is in the first and second position, wherein the apparatus is configured to be at least in a first apparatus mode when the voltage source is in its first position, and in a second apparatus mode when the voltage source is in its second position, for example in an operational mode and adjusting mode respectively. For example, in a method to change the mode of an apparatus, for example an apparatus according to claim 16, the voltage source is being repositioned in a voltage holder of the apparatus, to switch the mode of the apparatus.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

The invention will now be described in more detail on the basis of exemplary embodiments shown in the accompanying drawing, wherein: Fig. 1 schematically depicts a first embodiment of the invention, in a first mode of operation;

Fig. 2 schematically depicts the first embodiment in a second mode of operation;

Figs. 3A, 3B schematically depicts a second embodiment of the invention; and Fig. 4 depicts a result of a hearing test performed by an embodiment of a system according to the invention.

Figures 1 and 2 schematically depict a first embodiment of a hearing aid system. Particularly, Fig. 1 depicts a first mode of operation, and Fig. 2 a second mode of operation of the system. Particularly, the first mode is a hearing aid mode, and the second mode a hearing test mode.

The system is provided with a hearing aid device 1 , configured to be worn by a user. The hearing aid device 1 can be configured in various ways. For example, the hearing aid device 1 can be configured to be located in an ear canal EC of a user, in an outer ear of the user, and/or externally with respect to the user. In the present embodiment, the hearing aid device 1 (particularly a housing H thereof) can be placed at least partly or substantially within the ear canal EC. Preferably, the hearing aid device 1 is a portable lightweight device 1. According to an embodiment, the system can operate at least in a first (or hearing aid) mode, shown in Fig. 1, in which mode the hearing aid device 1 can amplify 'outside' sounds Q emanating from an environment ENV of the user. To this aim, the hearing aid device 1 of the first embodiment can be provided with one or more sound detectors 3 to detect sound, one or more sound generators 2 to generate at least partly amplified and/or processed sound S, and with a suitable control 4. The hearing device control 4, sound detector(s) 3 and sound generator(s) 2 can be configured to cooperate with each other to at least partially amplify the sounds Q emanating from an environment of the user.

For example, a sound detector 3 of the system can be configured to detect the sounds (indicated by arrows Q) originating from an environment ENV of the user. The control 4 can be coupled to the sound detector 3 to receive sound detection signals, relating to detected sounds Q, from the detector 3. The control 4 can at least partially amplify the sound detection signals. The amplification can be based on, or make use of, one or more gain parameters of the hearing aid device 1, for example various frequency dependent gain parameters. As an example, such gain parameters can be stored in a memory 8 of the hearing aid device 1. Also, for example, certain parts of the spectrum of the sounds Q can be amplified by the control 4. Besides, the control 4 can be configured to carry out certain adjustments to the sounds Q (or sound detection signals) to be amplified, for example to reduce noise, to improve sound quality, to provide a certain directivity, to equalize the sounds, and/or to carry out a different type of sound processing. The control 4 can be coupled to the sound generator(s) 3, to feed respective sound signals to the sound generator, to generate the at least partly amplified sounds S. In this way, a certain hearing loss of the user can be at least partly overcome or counteracted by the hearing aid system.

As an example, the hearing aid device 1 can include a suitable housing H (depicted by broken lines H in the figures), which housing H can be provided with a mentioned sound detector 3, sound generator 2 and/or control part 4. As an example, such a housing H can be relatively compact, and may be formed to fit at least partially in the ear canal EC of the user, to be inserted therein.

Alternatively, one or more parts of the hearing aid device 1 can be mountable to the outer ear of the user, or on other locations with respect to a head of the user. For example, the device 1 can comprise several housings, for example a first housing part H that can be inserted into the ear canal EC and a second housing part (not depicted) that is to be located externally with respect to the ear canal EC. For example, in that case, the first housing part can include the sound generator 2, and the second housing part H' can include one or more of the sound detectors.

Each sound generator 2 can be configured in various ways, and can comprise for example a loudspeaker, transducer, receiver, or different sound generator. Also, each sound detector 3 can be configured in various ways. For example, the sound detector can comprise a suitable microphone, a sensitive low-noise microphone, transducer or different detector.

The control 4 of the hearing aid device 1 can comprise, for example, suitable hardware, micro-electronics, software, one or more processors, digital signal processing means, one or more memories 8 and/or other suitable means to control and/or carry out the amplification of sound signals, as well as to control and/or carry out the adjusting of the hearing aid device 1 as will be described below. The control can be at least partly be provided by a computer program product, comprising computer code, configured to carry out a certain device functions when the code is being loaded in and/or carried out by a respective control part 4 of the system.

Besides, for example, part of the control 4 can be a local part of the hearing aid device 1, as is depicted in Fig. 1, for example a control part that is provided in the housing H of the hearing aid device 1. Such an (internal or local) hearing aid control part 4 can be provided with a respective hearing aid device memory 8, for example to store mentioned gain parameters and/or other data or information.

Also, the control can comprise at least a control part 10, which is external to the hearing aid device 1 (see Fig. 2). Such an external control part 10 can comprise or be part of, for instance, a docking station and/or a battery charger of the hearing aid device, or a personal computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or a different suitable external control part 10. Also, such an external control 10 can be provided with a respective memory 8'. For example, the external control part can be a remote control of the hearing aid device 1.

In an embodiment, the external control 10 provides a user interface 20, which is operable by the user. Such a user interface 20 can be configured and constructed in various ways. For example, the user interface 20 can be a manually operable interface, a speech controllable interface and/or a different type of user interface. The user interface can include a keyboard 20a and/or touch pad, a computer mouse 20b, a display 20c, and/or a different type of user interface. The user interface 20 can be an integral part of the control 10, or be at least partly separate from the control 10. The user interface 20 can be an at least partly computer implemented user interface. The user interface 20 can be configured to allow the user of the hearing aid device 1 to control and/or adjust certain operating parameters of the hearing aid device, such as sound processing parameters, loudness or sound intensity, a certain directivity pattern and/or other potentially implemented hearing aid device operating parameters. Alternatively, at least part of the user interface may be embedded in a part of the portable hearing aid device. For example, the hearing aid device 1 can be provided with manually operable interfacing means, such as switches or buttons, touch sensitive surfaces or other interfacing means. Also, at least part of a device 1 integrated user interface can be configured to detect audio-embedded control signals, and/or speech control signals. Besides, the user interface 20, or external control 10, and the hearing aid device 1 can be configured to communicate with each other via a suitable communication link 15, 16. As shown in Fig. 2, a communication link can be a wired communication line 15, suitable to electrically couple the hearing aid device control 4 via the external control 10 to the user interface 20. Besides, a wireless communication link 16 can be provided. Wireless communication can include electromagnetic communication means. In an alternative embodiment, such wireless communication is provided using audio embedded programming signals. As an example, the user interface 20 can be coupled to an acoustic signal emitter 16, via the respective control 10, to send acoustically embedded control signals to the remote hearing aid device 1. In that case, preferably, the control 4 of the hearing aid device 1 is configured to have a control mode, for example a programming mode and/or a test mode, in which control mode the hearing aid device 1 is configured to be wirelessly controlled using audio embedded control signals, wherein the hearing aid device 1 is configured to detect the acoustically embedded control signals in case such signals are received via the sound detector 3 of the device 1. Besides, in a further embodiment, the hearing aid device 1 can include a suitable power source 6, to provide power to the control 4, sound detector 3 and/or sound generator 2 of the device 1. Such a power source 6 can be, for example, a battery, a replaceable battery, a rechargeable battery and/or a different power source, and can be provided in a suitable power source holder of the hearing aid housing H. A mentioned docking station can be configured to recharge a rechargeable power source 6 of the hearing aid device 1 , in case the device 1 is docked onto a suitable docking location of such a docking station.

Besides, a communication network N, such as a computer network and/or telephone network, can be provided, to provide communication between a controls 4, 10 of the hearing aid system and a remote location. Such a remote location can be, for example, part of a central hearing aid clinic, a remote patient monitoring station, a location of a relative of the user of the hearing aid station, and/or a different location.

In an embodiment, the system can also operate at least in an adjustment mode or programming mode, in which mode the hearing aid device 1 can be adjusted. Particularly, in that case, one or more of the gain parameters of the hearing aid device 1 can be adjusted. For example, the gain parameters can be adjusted to at least partially compensate for any (further) hearing loss of a user. The term "adjust" should be interpreted broadly; for example, this term can mean adjusting, changing, setting, raising and/or lowering one or more hearing aid parameters, such as one or more gain parameters and/or other hearing aid parameters. The system may switch between the various modes (e.g. hearing aid mode, adjustment mode, test mode) in various ways, for example by user control, under timer control, automatically, or in a different way.

As mentioned above, the hearing aid device can also have a hearing test mode. According to an embodiment, the hearing aid device 1 is configured to generate one or more test sounds T during the test mode. For example, during the test mode, the hearing aid device 1 does not amplify 'outside' sounds Q emanating from an environment ENV of the user.

Advantageously, the test mode of the hearing aid device 1 is controllable by the user, by operating the user interface 20. Besides, the sound generator 2 of the hearing aid device 1 as such can generate the test sounds T (see Fig. 2). For example, the hearing aid device 1 can be arranged to store predetermined test sounds T, such as in the hearing aid device memory 8, and to play the test sounds, under the control of the user interface 20. Besides, the hearing aid device 1 can include a test signal generator to generate electric signals, to be fed to the sound generator 2 to generate the one or more test sounds. Such a test signal generator can be part of the hearing aid device control 4, for example be integrated therewith, or a separate component of the hearing aid device 1.

Various test sounds can be played by the hearing aid device 1 to test the hearing of the user, during the test mode of the device 1. For example, the hearing aid device 1 can be configured to generate one or more test sounds which include at least one test tone or test tone array, the tone or tone array having an increasing sound intensity. For example, each tone can start with a relatively low sound intensity such as about 0 dB, wherein subsequently the sound intensity is being increased, for example gradually or in small steps. Also, the hearing aid device 1 can be configured to generate a sequence of test sounds, the sequence including different test tones having different frequencies with respect to each other, for example narrow-band tones or sinusoidal tones. In a particular embodiment, the test tones include a sequence of octaves, for example subsequent tones having frequencies of 125 Hz, 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1000 Hz, 2000 Hz, 4000 Hz and 8000 Hz, or different frequencies. For example, in a further embodiment, the user interface 20 can simply be configured to send a start message to the hearing aid device, such as via a mentioned communication means 15, 16, to start producing a test sound after the user has operated a starting part of the user interface. As an example, such a starting part can be a click of a mouse 20b, a tap of a key of keyboard 20a, a click on a start-button, which is displayed on the display 20c, or a different starting means. Then, the hearing aid device can be configured to start generating a test sound, with increasing sound intensity, after having received a mentioned start message.

Besides, for example, in a further embodiment, the user interface 20 can be configured to receive an indication or message from the user, if and/or when the user hears a test sound that is generated by the hearing aid device 1. As a non- limitative example, the user interface 20 can include a confirmation part such as a click of a mouse 20b, a tap of a key of keyboard 20a, a click on a confirmation-button, which is displayed on the display 20c, or a different confirmation means.

Preferably, the system is configured to store an instantaneous level -for the example instantaneous sound intensity- of a test sound, detected by the user. Herein, 'instantaneous' can mean: at or very shortly after the time the user has indicated or signaled via the user interface 20, that the user has heard that test sound. Preferably, also, the system is configured to store the level of that test sound in combination with information regarding type and/or frequency of that test sound, and/or other test sound identification data.

Besides, the user interface 20 can send a confirmation message to the hearing aid device 1 , to confirm that the user has heard a test sound being played by the hearing aid device 1. Besides, such a confirmation message can also include test sound related data, such as information regarding type and/or frequency of that test sound, and/or test sound identification data.

The user interface 20 can also be configured to send a stop message to the hearing aid device to stop producing a test sound after the user has operated a stopping part of the user interface, wherein the hearing aid device 1 is configured to be stop generating a test sound after having received a stop message from the user interface. As in the above, for example, such a stopping part can be a click of a mouse 20b, a tap of a key of keyboard 20a, a click on a stop-button, which is displayed on the display 20c, or a different starting means. Besides, a mentioned confirmation part and stopping part can be integrated with each other. For example, the confirmation of the user that he/she hears a certain test sound can also lead to the hearing aid device 1 being controlled to stop playing that test sound. Similarly, a mentioned confirmation message and stop message can be integrated in one message. In a further embodiment, the hearing aid device 1 can be configured to generate a next test sound after the hearing aid device has received a message from the user interface, such as a mentioned stop message and/or confirmation message.

Preferably, the user interface 20 is configured to display test control information, for controlling the test mode of the hearing aid device, and/or to display test results of the hearing test.

Preferably, the system is configured to adjust or reprogram the hearing aid device 1 based on results of the testing of the hearing of the user. Such an adjusting or reprogramming can be carried out, for example, during and or after the testing of the hearing of the user. Moreover, in an embodiment, a memory of the system can be used to store results of the testing of the hearing of the user. Besides, the system can be configured to test the hearing of the user such that the system can generate an audiogram of the hearing of the user. Such an audiogram can be stored in a memory, be used to adjust the hearing aid device 1, be displayed on the display 20c, be send to a remote location, for example to an audiologist, via the network N. An example of such an audiogram is shown in Fig. 4. During use, when the hearing aid device 1 is in the hearing aid mode, the hearing aid device can detect sound, and amplify and/or process the sound, or sound related signals, to be played by the sound generator 2. This is depicted in Fig. 1. During the hearing aid mode, the device 1 is being worn by the user in an appropriate position in and/or near the ear canal EC. The hearing aid device 1 can be brought into the test mode, for example via remote control and by operating the user interface 20, or in a different way. Alternatively, the hearing aid device 1 as such can be operable, for example via a switch (not shown) or by changing the position of the voltage source (see the embodiment of Fig. 3 below), to change the mode of the hearing aid device. When the hearing aid device 1 is in the test mode, as shown in Fig. 2, the hearing aid device 1 can still carried by the user. During the test mode, hearing aid device 1 can perform at least part of a hearing test, to test the hearing of the user. To this aim, the hearing aid device 1 can be controlled to generate suitable test sounds in or near the ear canal of the user. Suitable test sounds have been mentioned above. For example, the one or more test sounds include at least one test tone or test tone array, each tone or array having an rising sound intensity.

The user interface 20 is simply operated by the user, for example to control the test mode of the hearing aid device 1. For example, the user can operate the user interface 20 to send a start message to the hearing aid device 1 , wherein the hearing aid device 1 starts generating a certain test sound after having received the start message.

Preferably, the user operates the user interface 20 to indicate if and/or when the user hears the test sound. To this aim, for example, the user can operate the user interface 20 to send a stop message to the hearing aid device 1 , and/or to send a mentioned confirmation message to the device 1. The hearing aid device 1 can stop generating the respective test sound after having received the stop and/or confirmation message from the user interface.

In an embodiment, the hearing aid device 1 determines the instantaneous level of the test tone after having received a mentioned stop and/or confirmation message from the user interface. Then, for example, the respective tone level can be stored in the hearing aid device 1 and/or in a memory of the remote control part 10. In the latter case, for example, the hearing aid device 1 can be configured to transmit the determined tone level to the remote control part 10 via a suitable communication line. Besides, in an embodiment, a remote control part 10 of the system can be configured to determine the instantaneous level of the test tone after having received a mentioned stop and/or confirmation message from the user interface. For example, the remote control part 10 and hearing aid device 1 can be configured to be and stay (automatically) synchronized with each other concerning the generation of the test tones. Moreover, for example, the remote control 10 can be provided with information regarding the test tones to be played by the hearing aid device 1 , for example a time versus signal intensity relation of each test tone, such, that the remote control part 10 can determine the instantaneous level of the test tone after having received a mentioned stop and/or confirmation message. Then, for example, the respective instantaneous tone level can be stored in a memory 8 of the hearing aid device 1 and/or in a memory 8' of the remote control part 10. In the latter case, for example, the hearing aid device 1 can transmit the determined tone level to the remote control part 10 via a suitable communication line. Preferably, also, the level of the test sound is being stored in combination with information regarding type and/or frequency of that test sound.

Preferably, the generation of test sounds is repeated a number of times, for example using test sounds of different frequencies. For example, after the user has operated the user interface 20 to indicate hearing a former test sound, a next, different test sound can be generated by the hearing aid device 1. After all test sounds have been played, and have possibly been detected by the user, the stored test results (comprising for example a sequence of test tone information relating to the test tones that could be heard by the user, and/or information relating to test tones that could not be heard by the user), an audiogram can be generated. An example of such an audiogram is shown in Fig. 4. The system can then be configured to reprogram the hearing aid device 1 , based on the test results and/or the audiogram. For example, the reprogramming of the hearing aid device 1 can be performed as part of the test mode of the system. Alternatively, the system can automatically enter a programming mode, or enter a programming mode under user control, to update hearing aid device parameters. The adjusting of the hearing aid device 1 can involve adjusting gain parameters, for example a master gain parameter and/or frequency-related gain parameters, and/or the adjusting of signal processing parameters or other hearing aid device parameters.

In case test results have been stored in a memory 8 of the hearing aid device 1, the hearing aid device 1 can be configured to reprogram itself based on the test results. Besides, in case the external control 10 has been provided with the test results, the hearing aid device 1 can be adjusted accordingly by the external control 10.

Also, test results can be sent to a remote location, for example to an audio logist, via the network N. Besides, in case the system detects an undesired change in the hearing of the user, the system can generate a message (such as on the display 20c, via a print-out, and/or differently), to warn the user and/or to advice the user to see his audiologist. The embodiment of Fig. 1 and 2 can be simply used at a desired location and a desired time, and be operated by the user. The system can perform an accurate hearing test, and can reprogram the hearing aid device 1 based on the test results. For example, the user interface 10 can simply be a personal computer, or similar user device. For example, in the present embodiment, main parts of an 'audiometer' can be simply integrated in the portable hearing aid device 1 as such. A user interface, such as a PC based user interface, can control the hearing aid device 1 , for example via a simple audio link, particularly via a relatively simple unidirectional communication link. Alternatively, bi-directional communication can be provided between the user interface and the hearing aid device 1. During the test, the user can simply provide feedback concerning detection of the test sounds, by operating the user interface (such as a PC).

In an embodiment, as follows from the above, a hearing aid device 1 can at least have a control mode, for example a programming mode, in which mode the hearing aid device 1 is configured to be wirelessly controlled using audio embedded control signals. According to an embodiment, advantageously, such a hearing aid device 1 is also configured to automatically enter a control signal detection period of the control mode at a start-up of the hearing aid device 1, for example after a reset of the hearing aid device 1 and/or after a switching or replacement of a hearing aid device power source 6. For example, the signal detection period can involve a limited 'span of attention' in which the hearing aid device 1 is susceptible to audio embedded control signals.

In that case, according to an embodiment, the hearing aid device 1 is configured to detect audio embedded control signals during the control signal detection period. The hearing aid device is preferably configured to leave the control mode and to enter a subsequent hearing aid mode in case the device does not detect audio embedded control signals during the control signal detection period. Then, the hearing aid device can be configured not to be wirelessly controlled using audio embedded control signals during the hearing aid mode. In this way, the hearing aid device 1 is relatively safe in use. Thus, accidental pick-up of programming codes can be prevented in a relatively simple manner, particularly by providing a limited 'span of attention'. For example, the length of the control signal detection period can be about a second, a number of seconds (for example about 10 seconds), one or a couple of minutes, or a different relatively short time period.

Figures 3 A, 3B depict a further embodiment. The embodiment of fig. 3 A, 3B can be a hearing aid device, such as a device 1 described above concerning Figures 1 and 2, or a different device. Particularly, the embodiment of Fig. 3 comprises an apparatus comprising a voltage source, for example a hearing aid device or a hearing aid device of a hearing aid system. In the Fig. 3 embodiment, the voltage source 106 is adjustable between a first position, shown in Fig. 3A, and a -different- second position, shown in Fig, 3B, in a voltage source holder 153 of the apparatus. The voltage holder 153 can be configured in various ways. Preferably, the voltage holder is configured to provide an at least partial overlap between the first and second position of the voltage source. The overlap can be a substantial overlap, for example in case the second position of the voltage source is the upside-down position with regard to the first position, as is shown in Figures 3A, 3B.

The apparatus is configured to be at least partly powered by the voltage source 106 both when the voltage source 106 is in the first and (in the present embodiment up-side- down) second position. An example of such an apparatus is shown in US 5,916,698, which US patent is incorporated in the present application in its entirety, particularly concerning a possible terminal arrangement of apparatus contacts with respect to voltage source terminals. According to an embodiment, the apparatus 101 is configured to be at least in a first apparatus mode when the voltage source 106 is in its first position, and in a different second apparatus mode when the voltage source 106 is in its second position, for example in an operational mode (such as a hearing aid mode) and device adjusting mode respectively. For example, the apparatus can include a voltage source position sensor 151. Such a sensor 151 may be part of a voltage rectifying circuit of the apparatus, the sensor can include a voltage sensor, the sensor 151 can include a mechanical sensor, and/or the sensor can be constructed in a different manner.

During use, the position of the voltage source simply determines the mode of the apparatus 101. For example, when the voltage source is in the first position (see Fig. 1), the apparatus can perform a normal apparatus operation, such as aiding a user in hearing in case the apparatus is a hearing aid device. When the user desired to program or adjust the apparatus, the user can bring the apparatus 101 into the second mode by changing the position of the voltage source, for example to place the voltage source up-side-down into the voltage holder as is depicted in Fig. 3B. Thus, the voltage source is used as a switching part of the apparatus 101. In case the apparatus is a hearing aid device, the second mode can include a programming mode, but also an above-mentioned hearing test mode. Preferably, the apparatus can still receive electric power from the voltage source, irrespectively of the position of that source with respect to the voltage source holder 153 during placement of the source in the voltage holder 153.

Although the illustrative embodiments of the present invention have been described in greater detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to those embodiments. Various changes or modifications may be effected by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope or the spirit of the invention as defined in the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. Hearing aid system, including a hearing aid device (1), the hearing aid device (1) at least having a hearing aid mode to aid a user in hearing sound, and a hearing test mode to test the hearing of the user, wherein the hearing aid device (1) is configured to generate one or more test sounds during the test mode, wherein the system comprises a user interface (20) which is operable by the user to control the generation of the one or more test sounds, and/or to indicate if and/or when the user hears a test sound.

2. Hearing aid system according to claim 1, wherein the user interface (20) is configured to receive an indication or message from the user, if and/or when the user hears a test sound that is generated by the hearing aid device (1).

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the user interface is configured to send a start message to the hearing aid device to start producing a test sound after the user has operated a starting part of the user interface, wherein the hearing aid device (1) is configured to start generating a test sound after having received a start message from the user interface.

4. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the user interface is configured to send a stop message to the hearing aid device to stop producing a test sound after the user has operated a stopping part of the user interface, wherein the hearing aid device (1) is configured to stop generating a test sound after having received a stop message from the user interface.

5. System according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the hearing aid device is configured to generate a next test sound after the hearing aid device has received a message from the user interface.

6. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the user interface is configured to display test control information, for controlling the test mode of the hearing aid device, and/or to display test results of the hearing test.

7. System according to any of the preceding claims, configured to adjust or reprogram the hearing aid device (1) based on results of the testing of the hearing of the user.

8. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the user interface and the hearing aid device are configured to communicate with each other via a communication link, for example wirelessly, for example using audio embedded programming signals.

9. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hearing aid device is configured to generate one or more test sounds, which include at least one, test tone or test tone array, having an increasing tone sound intensity.

10. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hearing aid device is configured to generate a sequence of test sounds, the sequence including different test tones having different frequencies with respect to each other, for example narrow-band tones or sinusoidal tones.

11. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hearing aid device (1) includes a test signal generator to generate electric signals, to be fed to the sound generator to generate the one or more test sounds.

12. System according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one memory, wherein the system is configured to store results of the testing of the hearing of the user in the memory.

13. System according to any of the preceding claims, configured to store an instantaneous level -for example sound intensity- of a test sound, detected by the user, wherein the system is preferably also configured to store the instantaneous level of that test sound in combination with information regarding type and/or frequency of that test sound.

14. System according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a computer (10), which is provided with, said user interface (20).

15. A hearing aid device (1), for example a device of a system according to any of the preceding claims, the hearing aid device (1) at least having a control mode, for example a programming mode, in which mode the hearing aid device (1) is configured to be wirelessly controlled using audio embedded control signals, wherein the hearing aid device (1) is configured to automatically enter a control signal detection period of the control mode at a start-up of the hearing aid device (1), wherein the hearing aid device (1) is configured to detect audio embedded control signals during the control signal detection period, wherein the hearing aid device is configured to leave the control mode and to enter a subsequent hearing aid mode in case the device does not detect audio embedded control signals during the control signal detection period, wherein the hearing aid device (1) is configured not to be wirelessly controlled using audio embedded control signals during the hearing aid mode.

16. An apparatus comprising a voltage source, for example a hearing aid device or a hearing aid device of a system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the voltage source (106) is adjustable between at least a first and a different second position in a voltage source holder (153) of the apparatus, wherein the apparatus is configured to be at least partly powered by the voltage source (106) both when the voltage source (106) is in the first and second position, wherein the apparatus (101) is configured to be at least in a first apparatus mode when the voltage source (106) is in its first position, and in a second apparatus mode when the voltage source (106) is in its second position, for example in an operational mode and adjusting mode respectively.

17. Method to test a hearing of a user of a hearing aid device, for example utilizing a system according to any of the claims 1-14, wherein the hearing aid device (1) generates one or more test sounds in or near an ear canal of a user during a hearing test mode of the device (1), wherein a user interface (20) is provided, wherein the user interface (2) is operated by the user to control the test mode of the hearing aid device (1), and/or to indicate if and/or when the user hears the test sound.

18. Method according to claim 17, wherein the one or more test sounds include at least one test tone or test tone array, having an increasing tone sound intensity.

19. Method according to any of claims 17-18, wherein generation of a certain test sound is stopped after the user has indicated that he has heard that test sound, wherein preferably a next, different, test sound is generated after the user has operated the user interface to indicate hearing the former test sound.

20. Method according to any of the claims 17-19, wherein the hearing aid device (1) is being adjusted or reprogrammed based on results of the testing of the hearing of the user.

21. Method according to any of claims 17-20, wherein an audiogram of the hearing of the user is being generated, using the test results.

22. Method according to any of claims 17-21, wherein the user operates the user interface to send a start message to the hearing aid device, wherein the hearing aid device (1) starts generating a test sound after having received the start message from the user interface.

23. Method according to any of the claims 17-22, wherein the user operates the user interface to send a stop message to the hearing aid device, wherein the hearing aid device (1) stops generating a test sound after having received the stop message from the user interface, where after the hearing device (1) preferably plays a next test sound.

24. A computer program with instructions arranged for carrying out a method according to any one of claims 17-23 when said program is executed by a computer, for example by a personal computer and/or portable computer.

25. A method to program a hearing aid device (1), for example a device according to claim 15, wherein the hearing aid device (1) enters a programming signal detection period first, for example at a start-up of the hearing aid device (1), to detect audio embedded programming signals, wherein the hearing aid device (1) is being wirelessly programmed by audio embedded programming signals in case the hearing aid device (1) has received such signals during the programming signal detection period, wherein the hearing aid device (1) switches to a hearing aid mode in case no programming signals have been received during the programming signal detection period, wherein the hearing aid device can not be programmed by audio embedded signals during the hearing aid mode.

26. A method to change the mode of an apparatus, for example an apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the apparatus comprising a voltage source to provide power to the apparatus during at least a first and a second mode of the apparatus, wherein the voltage source (106) is being repositioned in a voltage holder (153) of the apparatus, to switch the mode of the apparatus.

27. A method according to claim 26, wherein the voltage source is being brought into a first position to set the apparatus to the first mode, for example an operational mode, wherein the voltage source is being brought into a second position to set the apparatus in the second mode, for example a control or programming mode.