Classifications

• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
  • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
  • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
  • H04R25/70—Adaptation of deaf aid to hearing loss, e.g. initial electronic fitting
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
  • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
  • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
  • H04R2225/39—Aspects relating to automatic logging of sound environment parameters and the performance of the hearing aid during use, e.g. histogram logging, or of user selected programs or settings in the hearing aid, e.g. usage logging
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
  • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
  • H04R2225/00—Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
  • H04R2225/61—Aspects relating to mechanical or electronic switches or control elements, e.g. functioning
• • H—ELECTRICITY
  • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
  • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
  • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
  • H04R25/60—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles
  • H04R25/603—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles of mechanical or electronic switches or control elements

Definitions

• This invention relates to the field of hearing assistance devices. More particularly, this invention relates to a system for programming the operation of a hearing assistance device based on usage of the device by a patient.
• Hearing loss varies widely from patient to patient in type and severity.
• the acoustical characteristics of a hearing aid must be selected to provide the best possible result for each hearing impaired person.
• these acoustical characteristics of a hearing aid are "fit" to a patient through a prescription procedure.
• this has involved measuring hearing characteristics of the patient and calculating the required amplification characteristics based on the measured hearing characteristics.
• the desired amplification characteristics are then programmed into a digital signal processor in the hearing aid, the hearing aid is worn by the patient, and the patient's hearing is again evaluated while the hearing aid is in use.
• an audiologist or dispenser adjusts the programming of the hearing aid to improve the result for the patient.
• the fitting procedure for a hearing aid is generally an interactive and iterative process, wherein an audiologist or dispenser adjusts the programming of the hearing aid, receives feedback from the patient, adjusts the programming again, and so forth, until the patient is satisfied with the result.
• the patient must evaluate the hearing aid in various real world situations outside the audiologist' s or dispenser's office, note its performance in those situations and then return to the audiologist or dispenser to adjust the hearing aid programming based on the audiologist's or dispenser's understanding of the patient's comments regarding the patient's experience with the hearing aid.
• One of the significant factors in the price of a hearing aid is the cost of the audiologist's or dispenser's services in fitting and programming the device, along with the necessary equipment, such as software, computers, cables, hyproboxes, etc. If the required participation of the audiologist and/or dispenser and the fitting equipment can be eliminated or at least significantly reduced, the cost of a hearing aid can be significantly reduced.
• Tinnitus is a condition wherein a person experiences a sensation of noise (as a ringing or roaring) that is caused from a condition (such as a disturbance of the auditory nerve, hair cells, temporal mandibular joint or medications, to name a few.
• a condition such as a disturbance of the auditory nerve, hair cells, temporal mandibular joint or medications, to name a few.
• Tinnitus is a significant problem for approximately 50 million people each year, and some people only find relief with tinnitus maskers.
• a tinnitus masker looks like a hearing aid, but instead of amplifying sensed sound, it produces a sound, such as narrow-band noise, that masks the patient's tinnitus.
• Some of these instruments have a trim pot that is used to change the frequency of the masking noise. Such instruments may also have a volume control so the user may select the intensity of the masking that works best.
• tinnitus maskers are prescribed to patients who do not have significant hearing loss, and the masking sound is designed to be more acceptable to the patient than the tinnitus. For most patients that have significant hearing loss, hearing aids can also provide tinnitus relief. However, there are some patients that need both amplification and tinnitus masking.
• a programmable hearing assistance device that does not require a fitting procedure conducted by an audiologist or dispenser.
• a programmable hearing assistance device is needed which is automatically programmed based on selections made by a patient while using the device or based on usage patterns of the patient. This need applies to hearing aids as well as to tinnitus masking devices.
• the apparatus includes a processor, digital- to-analog converter, audio output section and means for generating first and second control signals.
• the processor executes one or more available programs for processing digital audio signals based on control signals.
• the digital-to-analog converter generates output analog audio signals based on the digital audio signals.
• the audio output section receives and amplifies the output analog audio signals, generates audible sound based thereon and provides the audible sound to the person.
• the memory stores programs for processing the digital audio signals according to various acoustical configurations or with tinnitus masking stimuli.
• a first control signal is generated for switching from one available program to another available program.
• a second control signal is generated for designating at least one of the available programs as a chosen program.
• the processor ceases execution of one of the available programs and commences execution of another of the available programs.
• the processor designates at least one of the available programs as a chosen program for continued use.
• the means for generating the first and second control signals comprise a momentary push button switch and a controller.
• the momentary push button switch changes from a first state to a second state.
• the controller generates the control signals based on periods of time during which the momentary push button switch is held in the second state. For example, the controller generates the first control signal when the momentary push button switch is held in the second state for a period of time exceeding a first time.
• the controller generates the second control signal when the momentary push button switch is held in the second state for a period of time exceeding a second time.
• the programmable apparatus is a hearing aid device and the one or more available programs comprise acoustical configuration programs.
• the programmable apparatus is a tinnitus masking device and the one or more available programs comprise masking stimuli programs.
• the programmable apparatus is a combination hearing aid device and tinnitus masking device, and the one or more available programs comprise acoustical configuration programs and masking stimuli programs.
• the programmable apparatus includes a timer for timing how long each of the available programs is used in processing digital audio signals. Based on how long each of the available programs is used, the processor designates at least one of the available programs as a chosen program for continued use.
• the invention provides a method for improving perception of sound by a person.
• the method includes steps of (a) storing in a memory device one or more available programs for processing digital audio signals, (b) processing the digital audio signals based on execution of the one or more available programs, (c) generating output analog audio signals based on the digital audio signals, (d) receiving and amplifying the output analog audio signals to generate audible sound based thereon, (e) generating a first control signal to switch from one available program to another available program based upon an action by the person, (f) generating a second control signal to designate at least one of the available programs as a chosen program based upon an action by the person, (g) ceasing execution of one of the available programs and commencing execution of another of the available programs based on the first control signal, and (h) designating at least one of the available programs as a chosen program based on the second control signal.
• the invention provides a programmable hearing aid apparatus comprising a processor, digital-to-analog converter, audio output section, memory and a counter.
• the processor executes one or more available programs for processing digital audio signals.
• the digital-to-analog converter generates output analog audio signals based on the digital audio signals.
• the audio output section receives and amplifies the output analog audio signals, generates audible sound based thereon and provides the audible sound to a person using the hearing aid.
• the memory stores the one or more available programs for processing the digital audio signals.
• the counter generates a counter value based on a count of events that are indicative of the application of power to or the removal of power from the programmable apparatus.
• the processor determines which of the one or more available programs has been used most in processing the digital audio signals.
• the determination of elapsed time is based at least in part on the counter value.
• the programmable apparatus includes a battery for providing power, and the counter is operable to count occurrences of events that are indicative of the removal and replacement of the battery.
• the apparatus includes a battery compartment door and a contact switch attached to the battery compartment door. The counter of this embodiment is operable to count a number of times the contact switch is electrically opened or closed.
• the programmable apparatus includes voltage level detection circuitry for detecting a voltage across the battery.
• the counter is operable to count a number of times the voltage across the battery increases by a substantial amount indicating that a weak battery has been replaced with a fresh battery.
• Some preferred embodiments include an on/off switch for turning the apparatus on and off.
• the counter is operable to count a number of times the on/off switch is operated by a user.
• Some embodiments of the invention include a configuration mode which may be entered to change certain settings of the apparatus.
• various configuration settings such as volume control enable/disable, directional function enable/disable, telecoil enable/disable and device reset, may be changed using one or more push buttons, the volume control, the battery door and an on/off switch.
• FIG. 1 depicts a functional block diagram of a hearing assistance device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention
• FIGS. 2 and 3 depict a functional flow diagram of the programming of a hearing assistance device according to a first embodiment of the invention
• FIGS. 4 and 5 depict a functional flow diagram of the programming of a hearing assistance device according to a second embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 6 depicts a functional block diagram of a tinnitus masking device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 7 depicts a functional flow diagram of the programming of a tinnitus masking device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 8 depicts a functional block diagram of components of a hearing assistance device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
• FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of a hearing assistance device 10 for improving the hearing of a hearing-impaired patient.
• the device 10 of FIG. 1 is also referred to herein as a hearing aid.
• Another embodiment of a hearing assistance device is a tinnitus masking device as shown in FIG. 6 which is discussed in more detail hereinafter.
• the hearing assistance device 10 includes one or more microphones 12a-b for sensing sound and converting the sound to analog audio signals.
• the analog audio signals generated by the microphones 12a-b are converted to digital audio signals by analog-to- digital (AJO) converters 14a- 14b.
• AJO analog-to- digital
• the digital audio signals are processed by a digital processor 16 to shape the frequency envelope of the digital audio signals to enhance those signals in a way which will improve audibility for the wearer of the hearing assistance device. Further discussion of various programs for processing the digital audio signals by the processor 16 is provided below. Thus, the processor 16 generates digital audio signals that are modified based on the programming of the processor 16.
• the modified digital audio signals are provided to a digital-to- analog (D/ A) converter 18 which generates analog audio signals based on the modified digital audio signals.
• the analog audio signals at the output of the D/ A converter 18 are amplified by an audio amplifier 20, where the level of amplification is controlled by a volume control 34 coupled to a controller 24.
• the amplified audio signals at the output of the amplifier 20 are provided to a sound generation device 22, which may be an audio speaker or other type of transducer that generates sound waves or mechanical vibrations which the wearer perceives as sound.
• the amplifier 20 and sound generation device 22 are referred to collectively herein as an audio output section 19 of the device 10.
• some embodiments of the invention include a telephone coil 30.
• the telephone coil 30, also referred to as a "telecoil,” is small coil of wire for picking up the magnetic field emitted by the ear piece of some telephone receivers or loop induction systems when the hearing assistance device 10 is disposed near such a telephone receiver or loop induction system.
• Signals generated by the telephone coil 30 are converted to digital signals by an A/D converter 14c and are provided to the processor 16.
• the converted digital signals from the telephone coil 30 may be used in some embodiments of the invention for resetting or reprogramming the processor 16, or controlling the operation of the hearing assistance device 16 in other ways.
• Some embodiments of the invention also include a wireless interface 32, such as a Bluetooth interface, for receiving wireless signals for resetting or reprogramming the processor 16.
• the wireless interface 32 is also used to control the operation of the device 10, including selection of acoustical configuration programs or masking stimuli programs.
• the wireless interface 32 may also be used to wirelessly deliver an audio signal to the device 10, such as a music signal transmitted from a wireless transmitter attached to a CD player, or the audio portion of a television program transmitted from a wireless transmitter connected to a television tuner.
• the wireless interface 32 comprises a WiFi link according to the IEEE 802.11 specification, an infrared link or other wireless communication link.
• a manually operated input device 28 also referred to herein as a momentary switch or push button, is provided for enabling the wearer to control various aspects of the operation and programming of the hearing assistance device 10.
• the push button 28 is preferably very small and located on an outer surface of a housing associated with the device 10. The push button 28 is located on a portion of the housing that is accessible to the wearer while the wearer is wearing and using the device 10.
• the device 10 may be configured as a behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE) instrument, with the push button 28 located on an accessible surface of the BTE or ITE instrument.
• BTE behind-the-ear
• ITE in-the-ear
• An example of a hearing aid having BTE and ITE portions is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2006/0056649, where reference number 34 of FIG. 1 of that publication indicates one possible location for a push button switch on the BTE portion of a hearing aid.
• the push button 28 may also be located on the ITE portion.
• the invention is not limited to any particular configuration of the device 10.
• the device 10 may comprise an open fit hearing aid, a canal hearing aid, a half- shell configuration, a BTE device, an ITE device or a completely in canal (CIC) device.
• CIC completely in canal
• the push button 28 is electrically connected to a controller 24 which generates digital control signals based on the state (open or closed) of the switch of the push button 28.
• the digital control signals are generated by the controller 24 based on how long the push button 28 is pressed.
• a timer is included in the controller 24 for generating a timing signal to time the duration of the pressing of the button 28. Further aspects of the operation of the controller 24 and the push button 28 are described in more detail below.
• a second push button 328 may be included in embodiments of the invention that combine hearing aid functions with tinnitus masking functions.
• a push button 328 is used to control the selection of tinnitus masking programs as described in more detail hereinafter.
• a single push button may be used for first programming the hearing aid functions and then programming the tinnitus masking functions.
• Nonvolatile memory 26 such as read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), or flash memory, is provided for storing programming instructions and other operational parameters for the device 10.
• ROM read-only memory
• PROM programmable ROM
• EEPROM electrically erasable PROM
• flash memory is provided for storing programming instructions and other operational parameters for the device 10.
• the memory 26 is accessible by the processor 16 and/or the controller 24.
• the hearing assistance device 10 is operable in several different modes as determined by its programming.
• programs and “programming” refers to one or more sets of instructions that are carried out by the processor 16 in shaping the frequency envelope of digital audio signals to enhance those signals to improve audibility for the wearer of the hearing assistance device 10.
• Programs and “programming” also refers to the instructions carried out by the processor 16 in determining which of several stored enhancement programs provides the best improvement for the wearer.
• FIGS. 2-5 depict the process flow of some exemplary methods for selecting the most effective hearing enhancement program for the wearer.
• FIGS. 2 and 3 depict a process flow according to one preferred embodiment of the invention wherein the selection of the most effective enhancement program is based upon a "trial and error" interactive and iterative method, where the wearer of the device evaluates several options for enhancement programs and chooses one or more programs that provide the best enhancement for the individual wearer.
• a first step in the method is to store in memory 26 some number (N) of primary acoustical configuration programs for shaping the acoustical characteristics of the hearing assistance device 10 (step 100). This step may be performed at the time of manufacture of the hearing assistance device 10 or at a later time, such as during a reprogramming procedure.
• any number of programs may be initially loaded into memory 26, and the invention is not limited to any particular number.
• a "primary acoustical characteristic configuration program” is an algorithm that sets the audio frequency shaping or compensation provided in the processor 16. These programs or algorithms may also be referred to by audiologists or dispensers as "gain- frequency response prescriptions.” Examples of generally accepted primary acoustical configuration programs include NAL (National Acoustic Laboratories; Bryne & Tonisson, 1976), Berger (Berger, Hagberg & Rane, 1977), POGO (Prescription of Gain and Output; McCandless & Lyregaard, 1983), NAL-R (NAL-Revised; Byrne & Dillon, 1986), POGO II (Schwartz, Lyregaard & Lundh, 1988), NAL-RP (NAL-Revised, Profound; Byrne, Parkinson & Newall, 1991), FIG6 (Killion & Fikret-Pasa, 1993) and NAL-NLl (NAL nonlinear; Dillon, 1999). It will be appreciated
• a "secondary acoustical characteristic configuration program" as that phrase is used herein refers to a variation on one of the primary programs.
• a parameter for gain at 1000 Hz may be set to a value of 20 dB which is considered to be in or near the center of a range for an average hearing loss patient.
• the parameter for gain at 1000 Hz may be set to a value of 25 dB which is just above the "standard” value.
• another related secondary program may have the parameter for gain at 1000 Hz set to a value of 15 dB which is just below the "standard” value.
• some number of acoustical configuration programs loaded into the device 10 are designed for use in quiet environment situations (referred to as "Q” programs), some for use in noisy environment situations (referred to as “N” programs) and some for use when the telecoil 30 is activated (referred to as "T” programs).
• the memory 26 of the hearing assistance device 10 is preloaded with five primary versions of the Q programs (Q1-Q5), five primary versions of the N programs (N1-N5) and five primary versions of the T programs (T1-T5).
• secondary programs which are variations around the primary programs, are in the memory of the device 10 for fine tuning.
• a feedback canceller algorithm is also stored in the memory 26 of the device 10.
• An example of a feedback canceller algorithm is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2005/0047620 by Robert Fretz. As described in more detail below, such an algorithm is used to set the acoustical gain levels in the processor 16 and/or the amplifier 20 to avoid audio feedback in the device 10.
• a wearer inserts the device 10 into the ear canal (in the case of an ITE device) or places the device 10 behind the ear (in the case of a BTE device) with the associated connections to the ear canal (step 102).
• the wearer presses the button 28 for some extended period of time Tl, such as 60 seconds, to activate the device 10 and initialize the feedback canceller program (step 104).
• Tl time period of time
• the feedback canceller program generates and stores acoustical coefficients that will be applicable to all of the primary and secondary acoustical configuration programs stored in the memory 26.
• the device 10 is in an initial fitting mode.
• the wearer can cycle through the N number of available primary acoustical configuration programs and try each to determine which provides the best enhancement for the wearer's hearing loss. The wearer does this by pressing the button 28 for at least some period of time T2, such as one second, to switch from one program to the next (step 108).
• a first program may be executed by the processor 16 when the device 10 is first powered on.
• a second program is executed by the processor 16 (step 120).
• the device 10 generates two beeps (step 118) to indicate to the selection of the second program.
• a third program is executed by the processor 16 (step 120) and the device 10 generates three beeps to indicate that the third program is selected.. This continues until the wearer has cycled through the N number of programs (such as seven). If the wearer presses the button 28 again for at least one second, the first program is loaded again. This process is represented by steps 108-122 of FIG. 2. To cycle through programs quickly, the wearer may press the button 28 several times consecutively until the desired program is selected. At this point, some number of beeps are generated to indicate which program is selected.
• step 110 If it is determined that the button 28 is pressed for less than one second (step 110), then no new program is loaded and the process waits for the next button press (step 122). This prevents inadvertent switching from one program to the next due to an accidental press of the button 28.
• different types of announcement sounds are used to indicate what type of program - quiet environment program, noisy environment program or telecoil program - has been selected. For example, when one of the quiet environment programs is selected, some number of pure-tone beeps are emitted from the audio output section 19, where the number of beeps indicates which of the quiet environment programs is selected. When one of the noisy environment programs is selected, some number of noise pulses are emitted from the audio output section 19, where the number of noise pulses indicates which of the noisy environment programs is selected. When the telecoil program is selected, a dial-tone pulse or ring sound is emitted from the audio output section 19.
• the wearer may find that some smaller number of the programs, such as two, seem to be used most because they provide the best hearing enhancement for the user in various situations. For example, one of the programs may provide the best performance in normal quiet conversation settings. Another of the programs may provide the best performance in a noisy setting, such as in a crowded room.
• a preferred embodiment of the invention allows the user to eliminate programs that are not used or rarely used, and to evaluate some secondary programs that are variations on the best performing programs. As described below, this is accomplished by pressing the push button 28 for a time T3, such as 30 seconds, which is longer than the time T2.
• step 124 if it is determined that the button 28 is pressed for a time T3 or longer (step 124), such as 30 seconds, the processor 16 sets a flag or stores a value indicating that the currently- loaded primary program has been designated as a chosen program (step 126). At this point, the device 10 generates a distinctive sound (step 128) to indicate to the wearer that a program has been chosen.
• the device 10 allows the user to choose two of the N number of primary acoustical configuration programs. However, it will be appreciated that the device 10 could accommodate designation of more or fewer than two primary acoustical configuration programs as chosen. If it is determined at step 130 that two programs have not yet been chosen, the process waits for the next press of the button 28 (step 122).
• the wearer presses the button 28 for at least time T3 to deactivate a non-chosen program.
• the invention is not limited to the manner in which programs are designated as chosen or not chosen.
• step 130 If it is determined at step 130 that two primary acoustical configuration programs have been chosen, then the primary programs that have not been chosen are deactivated (step 132 in FIG. 3). Deactivation in this sense means that the non-chosen programs are made unavailable for selection and execution using the procedure of repeated pressing of the button 28. Thus, at this point, two primary programs are available for selection and execution.
• each of the two newly-added secondary programs are variations on a corresponding one of the chosen primary programs. This allows the wearer to make a more refined selection so as to "fine tune" the desired acoustical response.
• the wearer has six available programs to evaluate and the user can cycle through the six programs using the button pressing procedure depicted in steps 138-152 of FIG. 3. This procedure is essentially the same as the procedure of steps 108-122 of FIG. 2.
• the wearer can choose the two programs that provide the best performance and deactivate the rest. This is accomplished by pressing the push button 28 for a time T3, such as 30 seconds. As shown in FIG. 3, if it is determined that the button 28 is pressed for a time T3 or longer (step 154), the processor 16 sets a flag or stores a value indicating that the currently-loaded program has been designated as chosen (step 156). At this point, the device 10 generates a distinctive sound (step 158) to indicate to the wearer that a program has been chosen. In a preferred embodiment, the device 10 allows the user to choose two of the N number of available programs. However, it will be appreciated that the device 10 could accommodate the choice of more or fewer than two programs.
• the programming of the hearing assistance device 10 can be reset to default (factory) conditions by the wearer or the hearing aide dispensing professional.
• the reset is initiated by pressing the push button 28 for an extended time T5, such as two minutes, which is significantly longer than T3.
• the reset is initiated by closing a battery compartment door while simultaneously pressing the button 28.
• This embodiment may include a switch coupled to the battery compartment door, where the status of the switch is provided to the controller 24, or may be activated by power from the battery to the processor.
• the reset is initiated by a Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF) telephone code received by the telephone coil 30 or microphone 12a or 12b.
• DTMF Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency
• the reset is initiated by a coded wireless signal received by the wireless interface 32.
• the reset is initiated by a configuration setting accessible in a configuration mode of the hearing assistance device.
• the configuration mode is described in more detail hereinafter. In some embodiments, more than one of the above procedures are available for resetting the programming of the device 10.
• a wearer switches between available programs and chooses programs using the manually operated push button 28 mounted on a housing of the device 10.
• the wearer switches between available programs and chooses programs using a wireless remote control device 33, such as an infrared, radio-frequency or acoustic remote control.
• a push button is provided on the remote control device 33, and the program selection and choosing process proceeds in the same manner as described above except that the wearer uses the push button on the remote control device 33 rather than a button mounted on the housing of the device 10.
• coded acoustic signals such as a series of clicks in a machine recognizable pattern, may be used to deliver commands to the device 10.
• Such acoustic control signals may be received by one or both of the microphones 14a- 14b and provided to the processor 16 for processing.
• the wearer switches between available programs and chooses programs by speaking certain "code words" that are received by one or more of the microphones 12a- 12b, converted to digital control signals and processed by the processor 16 to control operation of the device 10.
• the spoken phrase "switch program” may be interpreted by the processor 16 in the same manner as a push of the button 28 for a time T2
• spoken phrase "choose program” may be interpreted by the processor 16 in the same manner as a push of the button 28 for a time T3.
• FIGS. 4 and 5 depict a process flow according to another preferred embodiment of the invention wherein the designation of the most effective enhancement programs is based upon a method wherein the wearer of the device evaluates several options for enhancement programs and the device 10 keeps track of how long the wearer uses each program.
• the basic assumption is that the program which provides the best performance for the wearer will be the program used most during the evaluation period.
• a variation on this embodiment allows the wearer to "override" the time-based designation process and manually choose one or more programs that provide the best performance. This override feature may be provided as an optional operational mode.
• a first step in the method is to store in memory 26 some number (N) of primary acoustical configuration programs and 2xN number of secondary programs (step 200). This step may be performed at the time of manufacture of the hearing assistance device 10 or at a later time, such as during a reprogramming procedure.
• a feedback canceller algorithm is also stored in the memory 26 of the device 10 at step 200.
• a wearer inserts the device 10 into the ear canal (in the case of an ITE device) or places the device 10 behind the ear (in the case of a BTE device) with the associated connection to the ear canal (step 202).
• the wearer presses the button 28 for some extended period of time Tl, such as 60 seconds, to activate the device 10 and initialize the feedback canceller program (step 204).
• Tl time period of time
• the feedback canceller program generates and stores acoustical coefficients that will be applicable to all of the primary and secondary acoustical configuration programs stored in the memory 26.
• the wearer can cycle through the N number of available primary acoustical configuration programs and try each to determine which provides the best enhancement for the wearer's hearing loss. The wearer does this by pressing the button 28 for at least some period of time T2, such as one second, to switch from one program to the next (step 208).
• a first program may be executed by the processor 16 when the device 10 is first powered on.
• a second program is executed by the processor 16 (step 220).
• the device 10 generates two beeps (step 218) to indicate to the selection of the second program.
• a third program is executed by the processor 16 (step 220) and the device 10 generates three beeps to indicate that the third program is selected. This continues until the wearer has cycled through the N number of programs (such as seven). If the wearer presses the button 28 again for at least one second, the first program is loaded again. This process is represented by steps 208-228 of FIG. 4. To cycle through programs quickly, the wearer may press the button 28 several times consecutively until the desired program is selected. At this point, some number of beeps are generated to indicate which program is selected.
• step 210 if it is determined that the button 28 is pressed for less than one second (step 210), then no new program is loaded for execution and the process waits for the next button press (step 228). This prevents inadvertent switching from one program to the next due to an accidental press of the button 28.
• a timer circuit is used to time how long each selected primary program is used (step 222).
• the total time of use of each primary program is logged in memory and is continuously updated as the wearer switches from one program to another.
• T5 some extended period of time
• a calculation is made based on the logged time information to determine which two primary programs have been used most during the T5 period (step 230).
• the two primary programs having the highest usage time are then designated as chosen (step 232) and the remaining primary programs are deactivated (step 234).
• the wearer then uses the device 10 with the two chosen primary programs activated for a period of time T6, such as 80 hours (step 236). During this time, the wearer can switch between the two programs as desired.
• each of the two newly- added secondary programs is a variation on a corresponding one of the two most-used primary programs. This allows the wearer to make a more refined selection so as to "fine tune" the desired acoustical response.
• the wearer has six available programs to evaluate and the wearer can again cycle through the available programs using the button pressing procedure depicted in steps 208-228 of FIG. 4.
• the timer circuit is again used to time how long each program is loaded for use (step 222).
• the total time of use of each program is logged in memory and is continuously updated as the wearer switches from one program to another.
• a preferred embodiment of the invention allows a wearer to override the time-based selection process and to manually choose one or more programs that provide the best performance for the wearer.
• This override option is depicted in FIG. 5 and the dashed box portion of FIG. 4.
• the processor 16 sets a flag or stores a value indicating that the currently-loaded program has been designated as chosen (step 250 in FIG. 5).
• the device 10 generates a distinctive sound (step 252) to indicate to the wearer that a program has been chosen.
• the device 10 allows the user to choose two of the available acoustical configuration programs. However, it will be appreciated that the device 10 could accommodate the choice of more or fewer than two acoustical configuration programs.
• step 254 If it is determined at step 254 that two primary programs have not yet been chosen, the process waits for the next press of the button 28 (step 228 in FIG. 4). If it is determined at step 254 that two primary programs have been chosen, then the non-chosen primary programs are deactivated (step 256 in FIG. 5). Thus, at this point, two primary programs are available for use. If the wearer has not yet used the device 10 for at least a total period of time T6 (such as 80 hours) (step 258), then processing continues at step 236 of FIG. 4.
• T6 such as 80 hours
• N six available programs
• the time-logging processing continues as described above unless and until the wearer overrides the procedure by pressing the button 28 for longer than time T3 (step 248). This transfers processing back to step 250 of FIG.
• step 254 the processor 16 sets a flag or stores a value indicating that the currently- loaded program has been designated as chosen.
• the wearer has used the device 10 for at least a total period of time T6 (such as 80 hours) (step 258), so that processing continues at step 246 of FIG. 4.
• T6 time-logging procedure
• the override procedure or a combination of both.
• the wearer can now switch between the two available programs as desired using the button pressing procedure of steps 208- 228. If so desired, the programming of the device 10 may be reset to default conditions as described above using the button 28, the wireless interface 32 or the telephone coil 30, as described above.
• FIG. 6 depicts one embodiment of a hearing assistance device 300 for masking tinnitus.
• the device 300 which is also referred to herein as a tinnitus masker, includes a digital processor 316 for processing digital audio signals, such as masking stimuli signals.
• the masking stimuli signals comprise narrow-band audio noise.
• the audio frequencies of these noise signals generally fall into the human audible frequency range, such as in the 20-20,000 Hz band.
• "processing" these masking stimuli signals means accessing digital audio files (such as .wav or .mp3 files) from a digital memory device 326 and "playing" the files to generate corresponding digital audio signals.
• processing the masking stimuli signals means to determine which digital audio files to access from memory 326 based on which frequency ranges of narrow-band noise have been designated as chosen.
• processing the masking stimuli signals means to generate the masking stimuli signals using an audio masking stimuli generator program executed by the processor 316.
• the masking stimuli signals are provided to a D/A converter 318 which converts them to analog audio signals.
• the analog audio signals at the output of the D/A converter 318 are amplified by an audio amplifier 320 where the level of amplification is controlled by a volume control 334 coupled to a controller 324.
• the amplified audio signals at the output of the amplifier 320 are provided to a sound generation device 322, which may be an audio speaker or other type of transducer that generates sound waves or mechanical vibrations which the user perceives as sound.
• the amplifier 320 and sound generation device 322 are referred to collectively herein as an audio output section 319 of the device 300.
• the masking stimuli signals comprise narrow-band noise signals.
• other types of masking stimuli could be generated according to the invention, including frequency-modulated noise or speech babble noise.
• the invention is not limited to any particular type of masking stimuli.
• a manually operated momentary switch 328 also referred to herein as a push button 328, is provided for enabling the user of the device 300 to control various aspects of the operation and programming of the device 300.
• the push button 328 is preferably very small and located on an outer surface of a housing associated with the device 300.
• the push button 328 is located on a portion of the housing that is accessible to the user while the user is wearing and using the device 300.
• the device 300 may be configured as a behind-the-ear (BTE) or in-the-ear (ITE) instrument, with the push button 328 located on an accessible surface of the instruments.
• BTE behind-the-ear
• ITE in-the-ear
• the wearer switches between available masking stimuli programs and chooses programs using a wireless remote control device 333, such as an infrared, radio-frequency or acoustic remote control.
• the tinnitus masking device 300 is disposed in a housing suitable for tabletop use, such as on a bedside table.
• the push button 328 and volume control 334 may be located on any surface of the housing that is easily accessible to the user.
• the sound generation device 322 of this embodiment is preferably a standard audio speaker such as may typically be used in a tabletop clock radio device. It could also have an extension pillow speaker.
• the push button 328 is electrically connected to a controller 324 which generates digital control signals based on the state (open or closed) of the switch of the push button 328.
• the digital control signals are generated by the controller 324 based on how long the push button 328 is pressed.
• a timer is included in the controller 324 for generating a timing signal to time the duration of the pressing of the button 328. Further aspects of the operation of the controller 324 and the push button 328 are described in more detail below.
• Nonvolatile memory 326 such as read-only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), or flash memory, is provided for storing programming instructions, digital audio sound files and other operational parameters for the device 300.
• ROM read-only memory
• PROM programmable ROM
• EEPROM electrically erasable PROM
• flash memory is provided for storing programming instructions, digital audio sound files and other operational parameters for the device 300.
• the memory 326 is accessible by one or both of the processor 316 and the controller 324.
• FIG. 7 depicts a process flow according to one preferred embodiment of the invention wherein the selection of most effective masking stimulus for tinnitus masking is based upon a "trial and error" interactive and iterative method where the user of the device 300 evaluates several options for noise frequency and chooses a frequency range that provides the best masking experience for the individual user.
• a first step in the method is to store in memory various parameters for generating some number (N) of "programs" for generating narrow-band noise using the device 300 (step 350).
• a "program” may refer to various stored commands, values, settings or parameters that are accessed by masking stimuli generation software or firmware to cause the software or firmware to generate masking stimuli within a particular frequency band or masking having particular spectral aspects.
• "program” may refer to a specific digital audio file (.wav, .mp3, etc.) containing masking stimuli, such as audio noise in a particular frequency band or having particular spectral aspects.
• the step 350 may be performed at the time of manufacture of the device 300 or at a later time, such as during a reprogramming procedure.
• a user of the tinnitus masking device 300 can cycle through N number of available masking stimuli programs and evaluate each to determine which provides the best masking for the user's tinnitus condition. The user does this by pressing the button 328 for at least some period of time T2, such as one second, to switch from one masking program to the next (step 356).
• a first masking program may be activated when the device 300 is first powered on.
• a second masking program is loaded from memory 326 to the processor 316 and the device 300 generates two beeps (step 366) to indicate to the user that the second masking program is loaded.
• a third masking program is loaded from memory 326 to the processor 316 and the device 300 generates three beeps to indicate that the third masking program is loaded. This continues until the user has cycled through the N number of masking programs. If the wearer presses the button 328 again for at least five seconds, the first program is loaded for execution again. This process is represented by steps 356-370 of FIG. 7.
• step 358 If it is determined that the button 328 is pressed for less than one second (step 358), then no new masking program is loaded and the process waits for the next button press (step 370). This prevents inadvertent switching from one masking program to the next due to an accidental press of the button 328.
• the user may find that some smaller number of the programs, such as one or two, seem to be used the most because they provide the best masking performance for the user in various situations. For example, one of the masking stimuli programs may provide the best masking when the user is trying to sleep. Another of the masking stimuli programs may provide the best masking when the user is trying to concentrate while reading.
• a preferred embodiment of the invention allows the user to eliminate masking stimuli programs that are not used or rarely used, and to evaluate some additional masking stimuli programs that are variations on the best performing programs. This is accomplished by pressing the push button 328 for a time T3, such as 30 seconds, which is longer than the time T2, as described below.
• step 372 if it is determined that the button 328 is pressed for a time T3 or longer (step 372), the processor 316 sets a flag or stores a value indicating that the currently- loaded masking stimulus program has been designated as chosen (step 374). At this point, the device 300 generates a distinctive sound (step 376) to indicate to the user that a preferred masking stimulus program has been chosen. The masking stimuli programs not chosen are then deactivated (step 378). Deactivation in this sense means that the non-chosen programs are no longer available for selection using the procedure of repeated pressing of the button 328.
• the frequency band of the chosen program is "split" to provide two additional masking stimuli programs (step 382).
• the user can now switch between the three available masking stimuli programs using the button pressing procedure of steps 356-370 to decide which of the three provides the best masking performance.
• the user designates one of the three masking stimulus programs as chosen by pressing the button 328 for at least the time T3 (step 372).
• the process steps 374-384 are then performed based on the newly-chosen masking stimulus program. This selection procedure may be repeated any number of times to allow the user to "tune in” on the most effective masking stimulus program.
• the user presses the button 328 for a time T4, such as 30 seconds (step 386), at which point all non-chosen masking stimuli programs are removed or deactivated (step 388). From this point forward, the tinnitus masking device 300 operates indefinitely using the one selected masking stimulus program.
• the wearer presses the button 328 for at least time T3 to deactivate a non-chosen program.
• the invention is not limited to the manner in which masking stimuli programs are designated as chosen or not chosen.
• the tinnitus masking device 300 may be reset to default (factory) conditions by the user.
• the reset is initiated by pressing the push button 328 for an extended time T5 which is significantly longer than T4, such as two minutes.
• the reset is initiated by closing the battery compartment while simultaneously pressing the button 328.
• the reset is initiated using the wireless remote control device 333.
• the invention provides a hearing assistance device which is combination hearing aid and tinnitus masker.
• This embodiment comprises components as depicted in FIG. 1, which include the push button 28 for controlling the selection of hearing aid acoustical configuration programs for the hearing aid function (as described in FIGS. 2-5) and a second push button 328 for controlling the selection of masking stimuli programs for the tinnitus masking function (as described in FIG. 7).
• a single push button may be used for first programming the hearing aid functions and then programming the tinnitus masking functions.
• the processor 16 and controller 24 may be programmed to implement the hearing aid functions and the tinnitus masking functions simultaneously.
• elapsed time is determined based on counting the number of times various events occur during the lifetime of the device. For example, since the battery of a hearing assistance device must be replaced periodically, one can count the number of times the battery is replaced to approximate the elapsed operational time of the device. Also, since hearing assistance devices are typically removed and powered down each evening, one can count the number times a device has been cycled on and off, either by opening the battery compartment or by operating an on/off switch, to approximate the elapsed operational time.
• Various batteries used in hearing assistance devices have operational lifetimes ranging from about 3 days to about 30 days, where the exact lifetime depends on the capacity of the particular battery and the power demand of the hearing assistance device. Accordingly, if the expected lifetime of a particular battery in a particular hearing assistance device is 10 days, and the battery has been replaced three times, then one can estimate that the hearing assistance device has been in use for about 30 days.
• the expected lifetime of the battery is a value that is stored in the memory 26 of the hearing assistance device. This value may be updated depending on the particular model of battery in use and the expected power demand of the particular hearing assistance device.
• the opening and closing of battery compartment door contacts 42 provide an indication that the battery compartment door has been opened and closed.
• a set of electrical contacts are provided which are closed when the battery compartment door is closed and open when the compartment door is opened.
• a door contact detection module 44 monitors the battery compartment contacts 42 and generates an "on” or “high” logic signal when the contacts 42 are open and an “off” or “low” logic signal when the contacts 42 are closed. This logic signal is provided to a counter 40 which is incremented each time the signal goes high.
• a counter value of n indicates that the battery compartment door has been opened n times, indicating either n number of battery replacements or n number of times that the device has been powered down by opening the battery compartment.
• the counter value is preferably stored in the nonvolatile memory device 26.
• a value n may indicate a total use time of n days. If a device does have a separate on/off switch, and the battery is typically removed only when it is being replaced, a value n may indicate a total use time of n x x days, where x is the expected lifetime of the battery in days.
• a voltage level detection module 38 may be provided which monitors the voltage of the battery 36.
• the voltage level detection module 38 may generate an "on" or “high” logic signal whenever the battery voltage increases by some number of volts, indicating that an old battery has been replaced with a fresh one. This logic signal is provided to the counter 40 which is incremented each time the signal goes high. Similar to the battery replacement example above, a counter value of n indicates that the battery has been replaced n times, which indicates a total use time of ⁇ ⁇ x days.
• a momentary on/off switch 48 may be provided to turn the hearing assistance device 10 on and off.
• the switch 48 may be pressed once to turn the device on and once again to turn the device off.
• An on/off switch detection module 46 monitors the on/off switch 48 and generates an "on" or “high” logic signal each time the switch 48 is operated. This logic signal is provided to the counter 40 which increments each time the signal goes high.
• a counter value of n indicates that the device 10 (or the device 300) has been n cycled on and off — times. For example, if a device is typically turned on and off once per day, a
• n counter value of n indicates the device has been in use for — days.
• this time value may be determined based on the counter value generated by the counter 40.
• the counter value may be used to determine the time value in step 134 of FIG. 3, the time value in step 222 of FIG. 4, the time value in step 258 of FIG. 5, and the time value in step 380 of FIG. 7.
• a combination of two or more counter values may be used to calculate an elapsed operational time value.
• one counter value may keep track of the number of times the battery compartment door contacts have opened/closed and another counter value may keep track of the number of times the battery voltage goes from a low value to a high value.
• one counter value indicates that the battery compartment door has been opened/closed once and the other counter value indicates that the battery voltage has not changed significantly, this may indicate that the battery compartment door was opened to power down the device, but the battery was not replaced.
• the on/off switch counter value may indicate that the device has been in operation for 30 days
• the battery voltage level counter value may indicate that the device has been in operation for 40 days.
• an average of these two time values, the greater of these two time values, or the lesser of these two time values may be selected as the elapsed operational time value.
• FIG. 8 depicts the detection modules 38, 44 and 46 and the counter 40 as components of the controller 24. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, any or all of these components may be in provided in circuitry which is separate from the controller 24.
• the device 10 When the device 10 is powered-up for the first time after delivery to the patient, the device 10 enters the "Initial Fitting Mode" in a "Start selection” state. In this mode, programs Ql through Q5 are available to the patient by pressing the push-button 28. Each time the user presses the button 28, the loaded configuration program advances one program and the audio output section 19 emits an auditory indicator of the selected program, such as some number of pure-tone beeps indicating the number of the program. At any time during use of the Q- programs, the patient can select the Q-program preferred for normal use by holding down the button 28 for five seconds while in the program. After five seconds, the hearing aid 10 acknowledges the selection by emitting a long pure-tone beep.
• the selected program (designated as QS for purposes of this description) is active and non-selected programs are deactivated.
• the non-selected programs are not erased, but are available for reactivation by entering the "Configuration Mode” described below.
• the device 10 is now in the "Q_selected" state.
• the device 10 acknowledges the selection by emitting a long pure-tone beep through the audio output section 19.
• the selected noise program is active (designated as NS for purposes of this description) and the non-selected noise programs are deactivated.
• the deactivated programs are not erased, but are available for reactivation by entering the "Configuration Mode” described below.
• the device 10 is now in the "N_selected" state.
• the patient can rotate through the three active programs (QS, NS and TS) by pressing the push button 28. If program QS is selected, a pure-tone beep is emitted from the audio output section 19. If program NS is selected, a noise pulse is emitted. If program TS is selected, a dial-tone pulse or a ring sound is emitted.
• the device 10 is now in the "Coarse-tuned" state.
• two options are available with respect to fine tuning the hearing assistance device 10.
• the device 10 continues to run in the Initial Fitting Mode until the patient returns to the clinician's office and a Fine Tuning Mode is activated by the clinician. At that point, the clinician enters the Configuration Mode to enter the Fine Tuning Mode.
• the Fine Tuning Mode is automatically activated after seventeen power off-on cycles have occurred since entering the Initial Fitting Mode.
• the device 10 When the device 10 enters the Fine Tuning Mode, two new quiet environment programs are activated (QSL and QSH). This provides the patient five available programs (QS, QSL, QSH, NS and TS) to can try out indefinitely. Once the patient has developed a preference for one of the quiet environment programs (QS, QSL or QSH), the patent can select the preferred program by pressing the push button 28 for five seconds. After five seconds, the device 20 acknowledges the selection by emitting a long pure-tone beep through the audio output section 19. After that time, the selected Q-program (which is now designated as QS) is active and the non-selected Q-programs are deactivated. The TS program is automatically updated and activated to match the selected QS program.
• QS the selected Q-program
• NSL and NSH two more noise environment programs are activated.
• This provides the patient five available programs (QS, NS, NSL, NSH and TS) to try out indefinitely.
• the patent can select the preferred program by pressing the push button 28 for five seconds.
• the device 20 acknowledges the selection by emitting a long noise pulse through the audio output section 19.
• the selected N-program (which is now designated as NS) is active and the non-selected N-programs are deactivated.
• the QSL, QSH, NSL and NSH programs are created by using fixed parameter offsets to the stored Q-program and N-program sets based on predefined specifications.
• the configuration mode is entered by pressing the push button 28 while simultaneously closing the battery compartment door and continuing to press the push button 28 for some period of time, such as 10 seconds. Entry into the configuration mode is indicated by a long pure-tone beep emitted from the audio output section 19 (FIG. 1).
• each press of the push button 28 will step to a next configuration setting in a sequence of configuration settings, and will eventually wrap around and start through the sequence again when the last configuration setting is passed.
• Each configuration setting is announced with a series of beeps emitted from the audio output section 19 according to the Table I which shows a preferred embodiment.
• other configuration settings may be available in the configuration mode, such as gain increase/decrease, noise reduction on/off, feedback canceller fast/slow, to name a few. Table I.
• the Clinician-Assisted Fitting Mode is a mode that may be activated to allow a clinician to assist a patient in fine-tuning the hearing assistance device.
• the clinician may use the push button 28 to select an optimum set of quiet environment, noisy environment and telecoil programs for the patient.
• the hearing assistance device 10 may be used to record audio memos.
• a memo recording function may be activated using one or more push buttons, such as the button 28, and the volume control 34.
• the microphone 12a receives the vocal sounds of the user
• the A/D 14a converts the microphone signal to a digital audio signal
• the processor 16 converts the digital audio signal to an appropriate digital audio file format for storage, such as a .WAV file
• the memory 26 is used for storage of the digital audio file.
• the one or more push buttons, such as the button 28, and the volume control 34 may be used to access the stored digital audio file and play it back through the audio output section 19.
• the memo function could be used to record a list of items to pick up at the grocery store, or a telephone number of a friend or acquaintance.

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• 2008
  • 2008-04-23 EP EP08746622.3A patent/EP2140725B1/en active Active
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