Audio assembly with acoustic quality for hearing device

Abstract

The invention relates to an audio assembly for a hearing device, the audio assembly comprising: 1) a nozzle comprising a sound channel and a sound outlet acoustically connected to the sound channel, the sound channel having a cross-sectional area AN delimited by a channel wall in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the sound channel, and 2) a micro-receiver comprising a sound outlet acoustically connected to the sound channel, the micro-receiver is at least partially positioned in the sound channel, where the micro-receiver has a cross-sectional area AR defined by a housing of the micro-receiver in a plane substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the micro-receiver, and where the housing of the micro-receiver comprises a sound output port and a vent opening, wherein longitudinal axes of the sound channel and the micro-receiver are substantially parallel when the micro-receiver is at least partially positioned in the sound channel, and wherein a cross-sectional area AN of the sound channel exceeds a cross-sectional area AR of the micro-receiver, and wherein an excessive cross-sectional area of the sound channel forms an acoustic channel between a portion of the sound channel wall and an outer housing portion of the microreceiver, the acoustic channel defining an acoustic mass, and wherein the acoustic channel extends in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the sound channel, and wherein the acoustic channel is acoustically connected to the sound outlet of the nozzle and the sound output port of the microreceiver, whereby the acoustic channel is arranged between the sound outlet of the nozzle and the sound output port of the microreceiver.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an audio component for a hearing device, wherein an excess cross-sectional area of ​​an acoustic channel of a nozzle forms an acoustic passage, an acoustic mass is defined between a portion of the acoustic channel wall and an outer housing portion of a microreceiver at least partially arranged in the acoustic channel of the nozzle, and wherein the acoustic passage is acoustically connected to a sound outlet of the nozzle and a sound output port of the microreceiver. Background Art

[0002] Modern hearing devices are very compact devices. To achieve such a compact device, the components of the hearing device and the arrangement of these components inside the hearing device should be optimized with respect to the available space in a modern hearing device. Despite the limitations of the available space, acoustic sensitivity and bandwidth are important characteristics of modern hearing devices. In order to optimize these characteristics, the fundamental acoustic resonance peak of the hearing device should be appropriately located within the audible frequency band. In the hearing aid industry, the term "receiver" is often used to refer to the sound-generating device, i.e. the loudspeaker. Miniature receivers are suitable for use in hearing devices and are therefore very small. Typical dimensions (L x W x H) are 6-9 mm in length, 3-4 mm in width and approximately 1.5-2.5 mm in height.

[0003] In order to optimize the acoustic performance of the receiver, various arrangements have been proposed, for example, referring to US2010 / 254556A1, which forms an acoustic channel on the outer surface of the housing of the receiver. However, the solution proposed in US2010 / 254556A1 has several disadvantages. First, the acoustic channel is combined on the outer surface of the housing of the receiver, which increases the complexity of the receiver. Secondly, the addition of the acoustic channel also increases the overall size of the receiver. Another example of the prior art is EP2523470B1, but this reference does not involve the problem of how to form the acoustic channel when the miniature receiver is inserted into the sound channel of the nozzle.

[0004] It may therefore be seen as an object of embodiments of the present invention to provide a simple and compact audio assembly comprising a miniature receiver for a hearing device which, when incorporated into the hearing device, increases the bandwidth of the hearing device. Summary of the invention

[0005] In order to achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, an audio component for a hearing device is provided, the audio component comprising:

[0006] 1) A nozzle comprising a sound channel and a sound outlet acoustically connected to the sound channel, wherein the sound channel has a cross-sectional area A limited by the sound channel wall in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the sound channel N ,as well as

[0007] 2) a micro-receiver positioned at least partially in the acoustic channel, wherein in a plane generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the micro-receiver, the micro-receiver has a cross-sectional area A defined by a housing of the micro-receiver R , and wherein the housing of the microreceiver includes a sound output port and a vent opening,

[0008] wherein when the microreceiver is at least partially positioned in the acoustic channel, longitudinal axes of the acoustic channel and the microreceiver are substantially parallel, and

[0009] The cross-sectional area of ​​the acoustic channel is A N exceeds the cross-sectional area A of the microreceiver R , and wherein the excess cross-sectional area of ​​the acoustic channel forms an acoustic passage between a portion of the acoustic channel wall and an outer housing portion of the miniature receiver, the acoustic passage defining an acoustic mass, and wherein the acoustic passage extends in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the acoustic channel, and

[0010] Wherein the acoustic channel is acoustically connected to the sound outlet of the nozzle and the sound output port of the micro-receiver, whereby the acoustic channel is arranged between the sound outlet of the nozzle and the sound output port of the micro-receiver.

[0011] The present invention therefore relates to an audio component, which typically forms part of a hearing device, wherein a microreceiver is arranged in a mouthpiece of the hearing device. To fit into the mouthpiece, the microreceiver may be arranged in the mouthpiece of the hearing device in a square along the length. The benefit of establishing an acoustic channel with acoustic quality between the sound outlet of the mouthpiece and the sound output port of the microreceiver is that due to the acoustic quality of the narrower acoustic channel between the sound channel wall and the outer housing part of the microreceiver, it is facilitated to be able to provide a fundamental acoustic resonance peak of about 6-8 kHz. Due to the acoustic quality of the acoustic channel, the fundamental acoustic resonance peak is around 6-8 kHz, which has the advantage that when the audio component is incorporated in a hearing device, it helps to increase the bandwidth of the hearing device.

[0012] The bandwidth of a hearing device can be defined as the usable bandwidth, for example, by setting the upper frequency limit of the bandwidth to the frequency at which the receiver output is 5 dB below the receiver output at a reference frequency (e.g. 1 kHz). Thus, the usable bandwidth may be between 8 and 10 kHz. The acoustic quality required to achieve a certain resonant frequency depends on the acoustic compliance of the front volume. For example, in a front volume of 5 mm 3 The acoustic quality should be between 11000 and 20000 kg / m 4 In order to achieve a resonance peak between 6 and 8kHz. In addition, the front volume is between 3 and 7mm 3In order to achieve a resonance peak of 7kHz, the acoustic mass should be between 10000 and 24000 kg / m 4 between.

[0013] The cross-sectional area of ​​the sound channel is A N The cross-sectional area A of the micro-receiver R The difference between the cross-sectional areas advantageously establishes an acoustic path. The difference in cross-sectional area may vary as the length of the acoustic path changes, meaning that the acoustic properties of the acoustic path are not necessarily constant. For example, the difference in cross-sectional area may be distributed in a step-like manner along the length of the acoustic path.

[0014] In terms of quantity, the cross-sectional area of ​​the vocal tract A N Available in 6-13mm 2 The cross-sectional area of ​​the microreceiver is R Available in 5-10mm 2 between.

[0015] Cross-sectional area of ​​the sound channel (excluding micro-receiver) A N is configured to exceed the cross-sectional area A of the microreceiver R , so that the excessive cross-sectional area of ​​the sound channel forms an acoustic channel between a portion of the sound channel wall and the outer housing portion of the miniature receiver. The acoustic channel defines the acoustic quality.

[0016] In one embodiment, A N -A R The excessive cross-sectional area of ​​the acoustic channel is (substantially) limited to form an acoustic passage with limited acoustic quality. In another embodiment, given A R The cross-sectional area A N (substantially) larger than the cross-sectional area required to define the desired acoustic quality, e.g., at most 3 mm larger than the cross-sectional area required to define the desired acoustic quality 2 , usually 0.1 to 3 mm 2 For ease of manufacturing, it may be desirable to insert the microreceiver into an "oversized" acoustic channel and secure the microreceiver to the acoustic channel via an adhesive or sealant (e.g., a suitable glue, polymer film, or viscoelastic substance). The oversized cross-sectional area of ​​the acoustic channel forms an acoustic passageway that defines an acoustic mass between a portion of the acoustic channel wall, a portion of the outer housing of the microreceiver, and any portion used to attach the microreceiver to the acoustic channel (e.g., an adhesive or sealant).

[0017] In order to fit into the nozzle, the microreceiver preferably has an overall oblong shape, wherein at least the first and second oblong housing parts form the housing of the microreceiver.

[0018] The sound output port of the microreceiver may be arranged in a first oblong housing portion substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the microreceiver. The sound output port may be acoustically connected to the front volume of the microreceiver. The vent opening of the microreceiver may be arranged in a second oblong housing portion substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the microreceiver. The vent opening is adapted to ventilate the rear volume of the microreceiver. The vent opening of the rear volume of the microreceiver may be arranged in an additional rear volume, which is at least partially defined by the housing of the hearing device containing the audio components. The benefit of the additional rear volume is that the output, i.e. the sound pressure level (SPL), of the microreceiver may be increased over a receiver without the additional rear volume at the same drive level. The vent opening of the rear volume of the microreceiver may also be arranged in an additional channel (partially defined by the housing of the hearing device) which leads to an open space outside (i.e. outside) the hearing device.

[0019] The ventilation opening may include an acoustic filter element, which forms an acoustic filter with an acoustic impedance, such as an acoustic low-pass filter, whose acoustic impedance is in the range of 1-5 GPa.s / m 3 within the range.

[0020] The cut-off frequency range of such an acoustic low-pass filter can be 100-1000 Hz, for example 200-800 Hz, and the acoustic low-pass filter can be implemented as a mesh, wire mesh, grid, fabric, non-woven fabric or other arrangement with similar acoustic properties including one or more small holes (drilled or laser cut holes). The function of the acoustic filter is to allow the rear volume of the microreceiver to ventilate for signal frequencies below the filter cut-off frequency and to suppress ventilation for signal frequencies above the cut-off frequency. The advantage of this filter is that the low-frequency output can be increased, and the resonant frequency will not be affected by the additional volume. The main characteristic of the acoustic filter is the acoustic impedance. The acoustic impedance of the acoustic filter required to achieve a certain cut-off frequency depends on the acoustic compliance of the rear volume. For example, when the rear volume is 25mm 3 In this case, the acoustic impedance should be between 1.1 and 4.5 GPa.s / m 3 In order to achieve a cut-off frequency between 200 and 800 Hz. In addition, in order to achieve a cut-off frequency between 15 and 30 mm 3 In order to make the filter cut-off frequency reach 500Hz, the acoustic impedance of the acoustic filter should be between 1.3 and 3GPa.s / m 3 between.

[0021] As mentioned above, the benefit of the additional rear volume is that it can increase the low frequency output sound pressure level (SPL). The amount of increase depends on the size of the additional volume. The additional volume can be relatively small, i.e. of the same order of magnitude as the rear volume of the receiver housing, typically 30-80mm 3 Alternatively, the entire interior volume of the hearing device can be used as additional rear volume. The housing of the hearing device is 80-200mm 3 A separate part of the back can also be used as an additional rear volume. The ventilation opening can also face the surroundings of the hearing device, so that the size of the additional rear volume is not restricted.

[0022] In principle, the microreceiver may be any type of microreceiver, as long as its dimensions allow it to be positioned in the mouthpiece of a hearing device. In one embodiment, the microreceiver comprises a hinged diaphragm and a voice coil fixed to the hinged diaphragm. In this embodiment, the hinged diaphragm is adapted to deflect in response to a drive signal applied to the voice coil. Thus, when an audible drive signal having a frequency in the audible range is applied to the voice coil, the microreceiver generates sound waves.

[0023] In this context, the term "hinged membrane" is understood to mean a membrane that is hinged to, for example, a frame structure. The hinged connection of the membrane to, for example, a frame structure can be implemented in a variety of ways, such as by one or more integrated hinges, by one or more independent separate hinges, and / or by one or more film-based hinges.

[0024] The sound channel of the nozzle may have a generally circular cross-sectional shape and the microreceiver may have a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape. As previously described, the cross-sectional shape of the nozzle may vary in both size and shape along the length of the sound channel. In terms of size, the generally circular cross-sectional area of ​​the sound channel of the nozzle may be between 6 and 13 mm. 2 The micro receiver has a range of 5-10mm 2 The roughly rectangular cross-sectional area between.

[0025] For easy and convenient installation, the micro-receiver can be positioned in the sound channel using an adapter in the form of an independent adapter element. The independent adapter element can be attached to the sound channel wall and the micro-receiver housing via corresponding attachment elements. The attachment element can include a variety of arrangements, including, for example, snap-fit ​​attachment elements, press-fit attachment elements or press-fit attachment elements, click-type attachment elements and / or similar attachment elements. The advantage of this independent adapter element is that it can easily and quickly fix the micro-receiver to the nozzle and / or release it from the nozzle.

[0026] The microreceiver may also be fixed directly to the nozzle. To this end, the microreceiver may include one or more positioning elements in the form of one or more protruding wings and / or flanges extending from the microreceiver housing. The one or more protruding wings and / or flanges may be integrally formed with the microreceiver or may also be fixed to the microreceiver. The one or more positioning elements are adapted to engage with the nozzle to ensure correct positioning of the microreceiver in the sound channel of the nozzle.

[0027] In order to correctly engage with the nozzle, one or more tracks including corresponding fixing elements may be provided on the wall of the sound channel of the nozzle. The one or more tracks and fixing elements are adapted to engage with corresponding positioning elements of the microreceiver to ensure correct positioning and fixing of the microreceiver in the sound channel of the nozzle. In addition, this arrangement has the advantage that it allows for easy and quick fixing and / or release of the microreceiver to the nozzle.

[0028] Alternatively or in combination therewith, the size and shape of the sound channel of the nozzle can be designed so that the microreceiver fits or press-fits into its desired position in the sound channel. In this arrangement, the nozzle and microreceiver are maintained in a fixed relationship by utilizing the elastic properties of the nozzle and / or microreceiver. In addition, this arrangement is also advantageous in that it can easily and quickly fix and / or release the microreceiver to the nozzle.

[0029] An acoustic seal may advantageously be provided between the sound channel and the additional rear volume to ensure proper operation. Such an acoustic seal may be achieved by applying a sealing member in the form of a sealing material (e.g. an adhesive) between the receiver housing and the nozzle wall before, during or after assembly. In order to simplify the sealing process, a sealing member may be at least partially provided between the nozzle and the microreceiver. The sealing member may be adapted at least to acoustically seal the sound output port from the vent opening. The sealing member may be an integral part of the microreceiver, or the sealing member may be an independent separate member.

[0030] Likewise, sealing material (eg, adhesive) may be applied between the receiver housing and the sealing member, and between the sealing member and the nozzle wall, before, during, or after assembly.

[0031] Furthermore, a suspension member may be at least partially disposed between the nozzle and the microreceiver. The suspension member may be adapted to at least vibrationally isolate the microreceiver from the nozzle. Thus, the suspension member is configured to prevent mechanical vibrations generated by the microreceiver from being transmitted to the nozzle. The suspension member may be formed as an integral part of the microreceiver. Alternatively, the suspension member may be an independent separate member.

[0032] In the above-mentioned audio component embodiment, the acoustic mass can be 8000-30000kg / m 4 In the range of, for example, 10000-25000kg / m 4 within the range.

[0033] In a second aspect, the invention relates to a hearing device comprising an audio assembly according to the first aspect. The hearing device may in principle be any hearing device, such as a hearable, an earplug, a hearing aid, etc. Thus, the hearing device may comprise a hearing aid, such as a behind-the-ear hearing device (BTE), a receiver-in-the-canal (RIC), an in-the-ear hearing device (ITE), such as a complete-in-the-canal hearing device (CIC) and an invisible-in-the-canal hearing device (IIC).

[0034] In general, the various aspects of the invention may be combined and coupled in any possible way within the scope of the invention.These and other aspects, features and / or advantages of the invention will become apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0036] FIG1 shows a cross-sectional side view of a part of a prior art hearing device,

[0037] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of a part of a hearing device according to the invention,

[0038] Figure 3 ac show cross-sectional end views of the nozzle and microreceiver, Figure 3 d shows a cross-sectional side view of a part of a hearing device,

[0039] Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional side view of a part of a hearing device according to the present invention, comprising an acoustic channel and a micro-receiver comprising a sound outlet port and a vent opening,

[0040] Figure 5 a shows an oblong micro-receiver having a pair of oppositely arranged flanges according to a first embodiment, Figure 5 b shows the oblong micro-receiver positioned in the nozzle,

[0041] Figure 6 a shows an oblong micro-receiver having a pair of oppositely arranged flanges according to a second embodiment, Figure 6 b shows the oblong micro-receiver positioned in the nozzle,

[0042] Figure 7a shows an oblong micro-receiver having a pair of oppositely arranged notches, Figure 7 b shows the oblong micro-receiver positioned in the nozzle,

[0043] Figure 8 a shows an oblong micro-receiver arranged on the track of the nozzle, Figure 8 b also shows an oblong micro-receiver arranged on the track of the nozzle, where the acoustic channel is divided into two sections,

[0044] Fig. 9 a shows an oblong micro-receiver with end flanges according to a first embodiment, Fig. 9 b shows an oblong microreceiver positioned in the nozzle,

[0045] Fig.10 a shows an oblong micro-receiver with end flanges according to a second embodiment, Fig.10 b shows an oblong microreceiver positioned in the nozzle,

[0046] Fig.11 a shows an oblong micro-receiver arranged in a sealing element according to a first embodiment, Fig.11 b shows the oblong micro-receiver and sealing element to be positioned in the nozzle,

[0047] Fig.12 a shows an oblong micro-receiver arranged in a sealing element according to a second embodiment, Fig.12 b shows the oblong micro-receiver and sealing element to be positioned in the nozzle,

[0048] Fig.13 a shows an oblong micro-receiver arranged in a suspension member according to a first embodiment, Fig.13 b shows the oblong micro-receiver and suspension member to be positioned in the nozzle,

[0049] Fig.14 a shows an oblong micro-receiver arranged in a suspension member according to a second embodiment, Fig.14 b shows the oblong micro-receiver and suspension member to be positioned in the nozzle,

[0050] Fig.15 An oblong miniature receiver is shown, which includes a hinged diaphragm and a voice coil fixed thereto, and

[0051] Fig.16 A cross-sectional view of another oblong miniature receiver according to the invention is shown, wherein a housing portion of the miniature receiver forms at least a part of an outer yoke of a magnetic motor having a rectangular voice coil. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] In general, the present invention relates to an audio component for a hearing device, wherein an excessive cross-sectional area of ​​an acoustic channel of a nozzle forms an acoustic passage defining an acoustic mass. The acoustic passage is formed between a portion of the acoustic channel wall and an outer housing portion of a microreceiver at least partially arranged in the acoustic channel of the nozzle. The acoustic passage is acoustically connected to a sound outlet of the nozzle and a sound output port of the microreceiver. With this arrangement, the acoustic passage becomes arranged between the sound outlet of the nozzle and the sound output port of the microreceiver. This arrangement is advantageous because it facilitates being able to provide a fundamental acoustic resonance peak of around 6-8 kHz. As previously mentioned, a fundamental acoustic resonance peak in this range is advantageous because it facilitates increasing the bandwidth of the hearing device when the audio component is incorporated in the hearing device.

[0053] Fig. 1 shows a hearing device 100 according to the prior art, wherein a receiver 101 delivers sound into a mouthpiece 102, which is fixed to a flexible dome 103 for positioning the hearing device 100 in an ear canal (not shown). The hearing device 100 further comprises a housing 104, which is also shown in Fig. 1. The sound emitted by the speaker / receiver 101 leaves the hearing device 100 via a sound outlet 105 of the mouthpiece 102 and a sound outlet 106 of the flexible dome 103.

[0054] Figure 2 A hearing device 200 according to the present invention is shown. Again, a nozzle 202 is fixed to a flexible dome 203. Unlike the prior art, an oblong micro-receiver 201 is arranged in the sound channel of the nozzle 202. However, as will be discussed in further detail below, the cross-sectional area of ​​the sound channel of the nozzle 202 exceeds the corresponding cross-sectional area of ​​the micro-receiver 201, so that an acoustic channel 205 defining an acoustic mass is formed between a portion of the sound channel wall and the outer housing portion of the micro-receiver 201. The sound generated by the micro-receiver 201 leaves the hearing device 200 via a sound output port 208 of the micro-receiver 201, the acoustic channel 205, the sound outlet 206 of the nozzle 202 and the sound outlet 207 of the flexible dome 203. Figure 2 Also shown in FIG. 2 is a portion of a hearing device housing 204 .

[0055] Figure 2 The dimensions (length x width x height) of the oblong microreceiver in the other figures are only a few millimeters, for example, about 7x3.5x2 mm.

[0056] Figure 3 a-3c show various end cross-sectional views of the nozzle and micro-receiver. Figure 3a, shows a nozzle 301, which includes a sound channel 302 having a cross-sectional area A in a plane generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the sound channel 302. N The acoustic channel 302 is bounded by an acoustic channel wall 303 . Figure 3 b shows a micro-receiver 304 having a cross-sectional area A defined by an outer housing portion 305 of the micro-receiver 304 in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the micro-receiver 304. R .exist Figure 3 In c, a micro-receiver 304 is positioned in the sound channel of the nozzle 301. Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 3 , the excessive cross-sectional area of ​​the sound channel forms an acoustic channel 306 between a portion of the sound channel wall 303 and the outer shell portion 305 of the miniature receiver 304. Figure 3 d shows a cross-sectional side view of the microreceiver 304 when arranged in the mouthpiece 301 so as to define an acoustic channel 306 having a sound outlet 308. Likewise, the sound generated by the microreceiver 304 leaves the hearing device via the sound output port 309 of the microreceiver 304, the acoustic channel 306 and the sound outlet 308 of the mouthpiece 301. Figure 3 Also shown in d is a part of the hearing device housing 307 .

[0057] Figure 4 A hearing device 400 according to the present invention is shown. Again, an oblong microreceiver 401 is arranged in the sound channel of a nozzle 402, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the sound channel of the nozzle 402 exceeds the corresponding cross-sectional area of ​​the oblong microreceiver 401, thereby forming an acoustic channel 403 defining an acoustic mass between a portion of the sound channel wall and an outer housing portion of the oblong microreceiver 401. The sound generated by the oblong microreceiver 401 leaves the hearing device 400 via the acoustic channel 403 and the sound outlet 405 of the nozzle 402. Figure 4 Also described in FIG. 4 is a portion of a hearing device housing 407. Figure 4 As shown, the oblong micro-receiver 401 includes a sound output port 404 and a vent opening 406 that are acoustically connected to the acoustic channel 403 and the additional rear volume 408, respectively. The vent opening 406 is suitable for venting the rear volume of the micro-receiver 401, and the vent opening 406 includes an acoustic filter element to form an acoustic filter, such as an acoustic low-pass filter. As described above, the sound generated by the oblong micro-receiver 401 and leaving the micro-receiver 401 via the sound output port 404 passes through the acoustic channel 403, thereby being exposed to the acoustic quality of the acoustic channel.

[0058] As mentioned above, the acoustic mass required to achieve a certain resonant frequency depends on the acoustic compliance of the front volume. 3The acoustic quality should be between 11000 and 20000 kg / m 4 In order to achieve a resonance peak between 6 and 8kHz. In addition, the front volume is between 3 and 7mm 3 In order to achieve a resonance peak of 7kHz, the acoustic mass should be between 10000 and 24000 kg / m 4 between.

[0059] Figure 5-10 Both relate to various arrangements for positioning and securing an oblong miniature receiver in a nozzle of an audio component.

[0060] Reference now Figure 5 a, which shows an oblong microreceiver 501 having a pair of oppositely disposed flanges 502 (only one visible). Figure 5 In b, the oblong micro-receiver 501 is at least partially arranged in the nozzle 503. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the oppositely arranged flanges 502, 502' abut against the surface portions 505, 505' of the corresponding nozzle 503. By this arrangement, the positioning of the oblong micro-receiver 501 relative to the nozzle 503 is predetermined. The nozzle 503 includes a protrusion 504 which is adapted to engage with a corresponding recess in the flexible dome (not shown) to secure the nozzle 503 to the flexible dome in a predetermined manner. Figure 5 , the oblong microreceiver 501 is moved to the final position by moving from right to left as indicated by arrow 506.

[0061] Now go to Figure 6 a, which shows an oblong microreceiver 601 having a pair of oppositely disposed flanges 602 (only one visible). Figure 6 In b, the oblong micro-receiver 601 is at least partially arranged in the nozzle 603. Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the oppositely arranged flanges 602, 602' abut against the edges 605, 605' of the corresponding nozzle 603. With this arrangement, the positioning of the oblong micro-receiver 601 relative to the nozzle 603 is predetermined. The nozzle 603 includes a protrusion 604, which is adapted to engage with a corresponding recess in the flexible dome (not shown), thereby fixing the nozzle 603 to the flexible dome in a predetermined manner. Figure 6 , the oblong microreceiver 601 is moved to the final position by moving from left to right as indicated by arrow 606.

[0062] exist Figure 7 In a, an oblong micro-receiver 701 is shown having a pair of oppositely arranged notches 702 (only one is visible). Figure 7In b, the oblong micro-receiver 701 is at least partially arranged in the nozzle 703. Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the oppositely arranged notches 702, 702' engage with corresponding cams 705, 705' of the nozzle 703. With this arrangement, the positioning of the oblong micro-receiver 701 relative to the nozzle 703 is predetermined. The nozzle 703 includes a protrusion 704 which is adapted to engage with a corresponding recess in the flexible dome (not shown) to secure the nozzle 703 to the flexible dome in a predetermined manner. Figure 7 In the figure, the oblong micro-receiver 701 can be moved to the final position by moving left or right.

[0063] Figure 8 An end view of an oblong micro-receiver 801 arranged in a nozzle 802 is shown in FIG. Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , two oppositely arranged tracks 803, 803' are arranged in the nozzle 802. These tracks 803, 803' engage with the protrusion 804 of the oblong micro-receiver 801. In addition, the upper surface of the oblong micro-receiver 801 abuts against the corresponding edges 806, 806' of the nozzle 802, thereby presetting the positioning of the oblong micro-receiver 801 relative to the nozzle 802. The acoustic channel 805 is arranged above the oblong micro-receiver 801. Figure 8 In FIG. 1 , the acoustic channel is divided into two channels 808 and 808′ by a nozzle protrusion 807, which is also adjacent to the oblong micro-receiver 801 and thus supports the oblong micro-receiver. Figure 3 As shown in c, the oblong micro-receiver 801 can be further supported by a (solid) body (not shown) in the nozzle 802 to obtain an effective sound channel area A N The solid body may be an integral part of the nozzle 802, or it may be a separate, discrete insert or seal. Alternatively, Figure 8 The area within the nozzle 802 shown in (a) and (b) (below the microreceiver 801) may be at least partially open and, according to one embodiment, form part of the sound channel.

[0064] Now go to Fig. 9 a, shows an oblong micro-receiver 901 including a flange 902 and a sound outlet port 903. Fig. 9 In b, the oblong micro-receiver 901 is arranged in the nozzle 905. Fig. 9As shown in FIG. 2 b, the flange 902 abuts against the edge 906 of the nozzle 905, thereby forming a mechanical stop. With this arrangement, the positioning of the oblong microreceiver 901 relative to the nozzle 905 is predetermined. An acoustic channel 907 is formed between the oblong microreceiver 901 and the nozzle 905, and the sound outlet port 903 of the oblong microreceiver 901 is acoustically connected to the acoustic channel 907. The nozzle 905 includes a protrusion 908, which is suitable for engaging with a corresponding recess in the flexible dome (not shown), thereby fixing the nozzle 905 to the flexible dome in a predetermined manner. Fig. 9 In the embodiment, the oblong miniature receiver 901 is moved into the final position by inserting it from the side of the hearing device housing 904 .

[0065] exist Fig.10 In a, an oblong micro-receiver 1001 including a flange 1002 and a sound outlet port 1003 is shown. Fig.10 In b, the oblong micro-receiver 1001 is arranged in the nozzle 1005. Fig.10 As shown in FIG. 1 b, the flange 1002 abuts against the surface 1006 of the nozzle 905, thereby forming a mechanical stop. With this arrangement, the positioning of the oblong microreceiver 1001 relative to the nozzle 1005 is predetermined. An acoustic channel 1007 is formed between the oblong microreceiver 1001 and the nozzle 1005, and the sound outlet port 1003 of the oblong microreceiver 1001 is acoustically connected to the acoustic channel 1007. The nozzle 1005 includes a protrusion 1008, which is suitable for engaging with a corresponding recess in the flexible dome (not shown), thereby fixing the nozzle 1005 to the flexible dome in a predetermined manner. Fig.10 In the embodiment, the oblong miniature receiver 1001 is moved into the final position by inserting it from the side of the hearing device housing 1004 .

[0066] Fig.11 and Fig.12 Both involve a sealing arrangement between an oblong micro-receiver and a nozzle.

[0067] Reference now Fig.11 a, shows an oblong micro-receiver 1101 secured to a sealing element, the sealing element comprising a housing portion 1104 and a flange 1102. The oblong micro-receiver 1101 comprises a pair of oppositely arranged protrusions 1108 (only one is visible). The sealing element defines a volume above and around the sound outlet port 1103 of the oblong micro-receiver 1101. Fig.11In Fig. 1, the oblong micro-receiver 1101 and the sealing element fixed thereto are inserted into a nozzle 1106 having oppositely arranged recesses 1109, 1109' adapted to receive corresponding protrusions 1108 of the oblong micro-receiver 1101. The flange 1102 of the sealing element is adapted to abut against the nozzle 1106, and when the oblong micro-receiver 1101 is inserted into the nozzle 1106, the volume above and around the sound outlet port 1103 of the oblong micro-receiver 1101 is acoustically connected to the acoustic channel 1110. Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 b , the oblong micro-receiver 1101 further comprises a vent opening 1107 which acoustically seals with the sound outlet port 1103 when the oblong micro-receiver 1101 is inserted into the nozzle 1106 . Fig.11 Also shown in b is a portion of the hearing device housing 1105 .

[0068] Reference now Fig.12 a, shows an oblong micro-receiver 1201 fixed to another sealing element, which also includes a housing portion 1203 and a flange 1202. The housing portion 1203 includes a pair of oppositely arranged protrusions 1205, 1205'. The housing portion 1203 of the sealing element defines an acoustic channel between the sound outlet port (hidden and therefore not visible) of the oblong micro-receiver 1201 and the sound outlet 1204. Fig.12 In FIG. 1 , the oblong microreceiver 1201 and the sealing element fixed thereto are inserted into a nozzle 1208 having oppositely arranged recesses 1209, 1209' adapted to receive corresponding protrusions 1205, 1205' of the housing part 1203. The flange 1202 of the sealing element is adapted to abut against the nozzle 1208. Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 b , the oblong micro-receiver 1201 further includes a vent opening 1207 which acoustically seals with the sound outlet port when the oblong micro-receiver 1201 is inserted into the nozzle 1208 . Fig.12 Also shown in b is a portion of the hearing device housing 1206 .

[0069] Fig.13 and 14 Both involve a suspension arrangement between an oblong miniature receiver and a nozzle.

[0070] exist Fig.13 In FIG. 1 , a suspension element for receiving an oblong micro-receiver (not shown) is shown. The suspension element is made of a vibration-isolating material, thereby preventing the mechanical vibrations generated by the oblong micro-receiver from being transmitted to the remaining components of the hearing device. Fig.13As shown in FIG. 1 , the suspension element includes opposite side portions 1301, 1301' and an end portion 1302, which acts as a mechanical stop when the oblong microreceiver is inserted into the suspension member. The suspension member also includes an opening 1303 for receiving the oblong microreceiver, and openings 1304 and 1305 aligned with the ventilation opening and sound outlet port of the oblong microreceiver, respectively. Fig.13 In b, an oblong microreceiver 1306 is arranged in the suspension member, which includes a vent opening 1307 and a sound outlet port (not shown). The suspension member is suitable for optional insertion into the nozzle via an adapter 1309. Fig.13 Also shown in b is a portion of a hearing device housing 1308 .

[0071] Fig.14 FIG. 1a shows an oblong micro-receiver 1401, which includes a ventilation opening 1402 and a sound outlet port (not shown), arranged in a tubular suspension member 1403 made of a vibration-isolating material. The tubular suspension member 1403 extends along both the longitudinal and transverse directions of the oblong micro-receiver 1401. Fig.14 b shows an oblong micro-receiver 1404, which also includes a ventilation opening 1405 and a sound outlet port (not shown), arranged in another tubular suspension member 1407 made of vibration isolation material. The tubular suspension member 1407 extends in the lateral direction of the oblong micro-receiver 1404.

[0072] Although not explicitly described in each embodiment, the oblong microreceiver includes a sound outlet port acoustically connected to the acoustic channel, and a vent opening suitable for venting the rear volume of the microreceiver. The vent opening typically includes an acoustic filter element to form an acoustic filter, such as an acoustic low-pass filter.

[0073] Reference now Fig.15 , shows a cross-sectional side view of an oblong microreceiver 1500 including a hinged diaphragm. The oblong microreceiver 1500 comprises a housing 1501, 1501' in which a sound outlet port 1504 and a vent opening 1515 are arranged. An acoustic filter 1516 having an acoustic impedance, such as an acoustic low-pass filter, is arranged in the vent opening 1515. 3The characteristics of the acoustic impedance may be as described above. A front volume 1502 and a rear volume 1503 are provided in the housing 1501, 1501' of the oblong miniature receiver 1500. These volumes 1502, 1503 are separated by a hinged diaphragm 1505. The hinged diaphragm 1505 includes a hinged portion and a movable portion, wherein at least the movable portion of the hinged diaphragm 1505 is adapted to vibrate in response to a driving signal applied to a voice coil 1512 fixed to the movable portion of the hinged diaphragm 1505, thereby generating sound waves. Fig.15 As shown, at least a portion of the hinged diaphragm 1505 includes a raised portion 1508 for increasing the stiffness of the diaphragm and / or providing a venting path so that an air volume 1513 inside the magnetic motor can be vented. The magnetic motor includes a permanent magnet 1510 sandwiched between a middle yoke 1509 and an outer yoke 1511. The middle yoke 1509 and the outer yoke 1511 form an air gap in which at least a portion of the voice coil 1512 is positioned.

[0074] like Fig.15 As shown, the hinged diaphragm 1505 is hinged to the frame structure 1514 via one or more hinges 1506. The hinged diaphragm 1505 and the frame structure 1514 preferably form a unitary structure made of the same material (e.g., metal, including aluminum). The hinged diaphragm 1505 and the frame structure 1514 are separated by one or more openings, which are at least partially filled with a sealing member 1507, such as a corrugated polymer film or a viscoelastic gel. With the sealing member 1507 applied in the one or more openings between the hinged diaphragm 1505 and the frame structure 1514, the front volume 1502 and the rear volume 1503 are acoustically sealed from each other.

[0075] from Fig.15 It can also be seen that the length of the hinged diaphragm 1505 is significantly longer than both the width / diameter of the magnetic motors 1509, 1510, 1511 and the diameter of the voice coil 1512. In fact, the length of the hinged diaphragm 1505 is at least twice the width / diameter of the magnetic motors 1509, 1510, 1511 and the diameter of the voice coil 1512. An electrical terminal 1517 is provided on the outside of the housing 1501, 1501'. The electrical terminal 1517 is electrically connected to the voice coil 1512 so that a driving signal can be provided to the voice coil.

[0076] Reference now Fig.16 , shows a cross-sectional side view of an oblong micro-receiver 1600 including a hinged diaphragm. The oblong micro-receiver 1600 includes a housing 1601, 1611 in which a sound outlet port 1604 and a vent opening 1615 are arranged. Fig.16 As shown, a portion of the housing 1611 is adapted to function as at least a portion of an outer yoke of a magnetic motor. Fig.16As shown, the magnetic motor includes a permanent magnet 1610 sandwiched between a center yoke 1609 and a housing portion / outer yoke 1611. The center yoke 1609 and the housing portion / outer yoke 1611 form an air gap 1613 in which at least a portion of a voice coil 1612 is positioned. The housing portion 1611, which is suitable for serving as at least a portion of an outer yoke, is typically made of a nickel / iron alloy, such as mu-metal.

[0077] The ventilation opening 1615 includes an acoustic filter 1616, such as a low pass filter, with an acoustic impedance in the range of 1-5 GPa.s / m 3 The acoustic filter 1616 may be implemented in various ways, such as an acoustic mesh.

[0078] A front volume 1602 and a rear volume 1603 are disposed within the housing 1601, 1611 of the oblong microreceiver 1600. These volumes 1602, 1603 are separated by a hinged diaphragm 1605. The hinged diaphragm 1605 includes a hinged portion proximal to one or more hinges 1606 and a movable portion, wherein at least the movable portion of the hinged diaphragm 1605 is adapted to vibrate in response to a drive signal applied to a voice coil 1612, thereby generating sound waves. The voice coil 1612 is fixed to the movable portion of the hinged diaphragm 1605. At least a portion of the hinged diaphragm 1605 includes a raised portion 1608 for increasing the stiffness of the diaphragm.

[0079] like Fig.16 As shown, the hinged diaphragm 1605 is hinged to the frame structure 1614 via one or more hinges 1606. The hinged diaphragm 1605 and the frame structure 1614 preferably form an integral structure made of the same material (e.g., metal, including aluminum). The hinged diaphragm 1605 and the frame structure 1614 are separated by one or more openings, which are at least partially filled with a flexible sealing member 1607, such as a (corrugated) polymer film or a viscoelastic substance, such as a viscoelastic gel. With the flexible sealing member 1607 applied in one or more openings between the hinged diaphragm 1605 and the frame structure 1614, the front volume and the rear volume 1602, 1603 are acoustically sealed from each other. On the outside of the oblong miniature receiver 1600, in particular on the outside of the housing 1601, 1611, an electrical terminal 1617 is provided. The electrical terminal 1617 is electrically connected to the voice coil 1612 so that a drive signal can be provided to the voice coil via the electrical terminal 1617.

[0080] In addition, if Fig.16 As shown, the length of the hinged diaphragm 1605 is significantly longer than both the width of the inner yoke of the magnetic motor 1609 and the width of the voice coil 1612. In fact, the length of the hinged diaphragm 1605 is at least twice the width of the inner yoke of the magnetic motor 1609 and the width of the voice coil 1612. Fig.16 It can also be seen that the inner yoke 1609 and permanent magnet 1610 of the magnetic motor and the voice coil 1612 have a rectangular shape, but the voice coil 1612 has rounded / arc corners. The length of the hinged diaphragm 1605 is approximately 1.5 times the length of the voice coil 1612. Although the present invention has been discussed in the foregoing with reference to exemplary embodiments of the invention, the present invention is not limited to these specific embodiments, which can be varied in many ways without departing from the invention. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments discussed should not be used to be strictly interpreted in accordance with the attached claims. On the contrary, these embodiments are only intended to interpret the wording of the attached claims, and are not intended to limit the claims to these exemplary embodiments. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present invention should be interpreted solely in accordance with the attached claims, where any ambiguity in the wording of the claims should be resolved using these exemplary embodiments.

Claims

1. An audio component for a hearing device, the audio component comprising: 1) A nozzle comprising a sound channel and a sound outlet acoustically connected to the sound channel, wherein the sound channel has a cross-sectional area A limited by the sound channel wall in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the sound channel N ,as well as 2) a micro-receiver positioned at least partially in the acoustic channel, wherein in a plane generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the micro-receiver, the micro-receiver has a cross-sectional area A defined by a housing of the micro-receiver R , and wherein the housing of the microreceiver includes a sound output port and a vent opening, wherein when the microreceiver is at least partially positioned in the acoustic channel, longitudinal axes of the acoustic channel and the microreceiver are substantially parallel, and The cross-sectional area of ​​the acoustic channel is A N exceeds the cross-sectional area A of the microreceiver R , and wherein the excess cross-sectional area of ​​the acoustic channel forms an acoustic passage between a portion of the acoustic channel wall and an outer housing portion of the miniature receiver, the acoustic passage defining an acoustic mass, and wherein the acoustic passage extends in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the acoustic channel, and Wherein the acoustic channel is acoustically connected to the sound outlet of the nozzle and the sound output port of the micro-receiver, whereby the acoustic channel is arranged between the sound outlet of the nozzle and the sound output port of the micro-receiver.

2. The audio component of claim 1, wherein the sound output port of the microreceiver is arranged in a first oblong housing portion that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the microreceiver.

3. An audio component according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ventilation opening of the microreceiver is arranged in a second oblong housing portion that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the microreceiver.

4. An audio component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vent opening is adapted to ventilate a rear volume of the microreceiver.

5. An audio component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vent opening comprises an acoustic filter element, the acoustic filter element forming an acoustic filter, such as an acoustic low-pass filter, having an acoustic impedance in the range of 1-5 GPa.s / m 3 within the range.

6. An audio component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the microreceiver comprises a hinged diaphragm and a voice coil fixed to the hinged diaphragm, and wherein the hinged diaphragm is adapted to deflect in response to a drive signal applied to the voice coil.

7. An audio component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acoustic channel of the nozzle has a generally circular cross-sectional shape, and wherein the microreceiver has a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape.

8. An audio component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the micro receiver is positioned in the sound channel via a separate adapter element, which is attached to the sound channel wall and the micro receiver housing via corresponding attachment elements.

9. The audio component of claim 8, wherein the attachment element comprises a snap-fit ​​attachment element, a press-fit attachment element, a click-type attachment element, and / or the like.

10. An audio component according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the microreceiver includes one or more positioning elements, the one or more positioning elements are in the form of one or more protruding wings and / or flanges extending from the microreceiver housing, and the one or more positioning elements are suitable for engaging with the nozzle to ensure the correct positioning of the microreceiver in the sound channel of the nozzle.

11. An audio component according to claim 10, wherein one or more tracks including corresponding fixing elements are provided in the sound channel wall of the nozzle, and the one or more tracks and fixing elements are suitable for engaging with the corresponding positioning elements of the microreceiver to ensure the correct positioning and fixation of the microreceiver in the sound channel of the nozzle.

12. An audio component according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the acoustic channel of the nozzle is sized and shaped so that the micro-receiver fits or press-fits into its desired position in the acoustic channel.

13. An audio component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a sealing member is at least partially arranged between the nozzle and the microreceiver, and wherein the sealing member is at least adapted to acoustically seal the sound output port from the vent opening.

14. The audio component of claim 13, wherein the sealing member is an integral part of the microreceiver, or wherein the sealing member is a separate, separate member.

15. An audio component according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein a suspension member is at least partially arranged between the nozzle and the microreceiver, and wherein the suspension member is at least adapted to vibrationally isolate the microreceiver from the nozzle.

16. The audio component of claim 15, wherein the suspension member is an integral part of the micro-receiver, or wherein the suspension member is a separate, separate member.

17. An audio component according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the acoustic mass of the sound channel is in the range of 8000-30000 kg / m 4 In the range of, for example, 10000-25000kg / m 4 within the range.

18. A hearing device comprising an audio assembly according to any one of the preceding claims.

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