Hearing device comprising a connector and a locking element

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hearing device comprising a connector and a locking element, the hearing device (2) comprising: - a behind-the-ear housing (4), wherein the housing comprises a bottom (6), a top (8) opposite the bottom (6), a front part (10), and a rear part (12) opposite the front part (10), - a connector (14), the connector (14) being configured to be removably attached to the housing (4), wherein the connector (14) is configured to connect the housing (4) to an element (16), the element (16) being configured to be arranged in or at the user's ear, wherein the housing (4) comprises a locking element (18), wherein the locking element (18) is configured to lock the connector (14) to the housing (4) / lock in the housing (4), and wherein the housing (4) comprises a guide (20) for at least a part of the connector (14).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hearing device, and more particularly to a hearing device including a behind-the-ear housing, a connector configured to connect the housing to an element, and a locking element. The locking element is configured to lock the connector to the housing. Background Art

[0002] Hearing devices may include different modules connected by a connector. For example, a hearing device may include a behind-the-ear module that may be connected to an in-the-ear module by means of a connector. A hearing device including different components enables a user to disassemble the hearing device into different components so that, for example, the user can clean a specific component or replace a component without having to discard the entire hearing device.

[0003] However, the problem is that a hearing device including different components may be more prone to failure if the different components are not properly and firmly locked together by a locking mechanism. In addition, since a hearing device is a small and delicate object, the locking mechanism on the hearing device is also small and delicate and has a risk of being easily broken. Further, due to the small size, the problem is that the locking mechanism often requires the use of tools, which makes it difficult for the user to operate the locking mechanism and the operation is cumbersome.

[0004] There is a need for an improved hearing device including a connector and a locking element. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Disclosed is a hearing device. The hearing device includes a behind-the-ear housing. The housing includes a bottom, a top opposite the bottom, a front portion, and a rear portion opposite the front portion. The hearing device includes a connector. The connector is configured to be removably attached to the housing. The connector is configured to connect the housing to an element. The element is configured to be disposed in or at the user's ear. The housing includes a locking element. The locking element is configured to lock the connector to the housing or lock the connector in the housing. The housing includes a guide for at least a portion of the connector.

[0006] The disclosed hearing device provides the advantage that when the connector is locked to the housing or locked in the housing, the connector cannot be removed from the housing. Thus, advantageously, the connector is prevented from falling out of the housing or being accidentally or inadvertently separated from the housing. In other words, advantageously, when the locking element does not lock the connector to the housing or lock the connector in the housing, the connector can only be removed or separated from the housing of the hearing device.

[0007] The user may be a hearing care professional (HCP), such as a doctor or a hearing device dispenser, or a hearing device wearer.

[0008] Advantageously, the connector can be removably attached to the housing, as this allows the connector to be intentionally or deliberately removed from the housing. The connector is configured to connect the housing to the component. Thus, the connector can be connected or attached to the component. Advantageously, therefore, the particular connector and / or the component connected to the connector can be replaced by different connectors and / or components, such that for example a user can change, attach or detach the connector and / or the component, e.g. for replacing the connector and / or the component or for cleaning the connector and / or the component.

[0009] Advantageously, the idle, vacant, unused, unoccupied or unfilled volume or space in the hearing device can be used to provide locking of the connector to or in the housing. In other words, advantageously, the available volume or space within the housing of the hearing device can be used to provide locking of the connector to or in the housing, such that the volume or space within the housing of the hearing device is not used by other components or assemblies.

[0010] In the context of this specification, the terms "lock", "locking mechanism", "locking device" and "locking system" may be used interchangeably and are not defined as specific features, but are used when describing all or some of the components in a hearing device that contribute to locking a connector to a housing such as a behind-the-ear housing, the connector and the locking element or locking it therein.

[0011] Advantageously, the locking device, and in particular the locking element, can firmly attach the connector to the housing. Additionally advantageously, the locking device, and in particular the locking element, can enable the connector to be firmly removed from the housing, such as removed from the housing without damaging the connector or the housing.

[0012] Advantageously, a hearing device can be provided that includes a connector lock such as a locking element for locking the connector. Advantageously, a robust or sturdy lock can be provided. Advantageously, the lock can be a mechanical lock and the lock can be relatively simple yet sturdy. Advantageously, the lock can be easily and simply operated. Advantageously, the lock can be an effective lock. Advantageously, the lock can be operated quickly to quickly detach and attach the connector to the housing.

[0013] The hearing device can be an earphone or a hearing aid. The hearing device can include a first transducer, such as a microphone, to generate one or more microphone output signals based on the received audio signal. The audio signal can be an analog signal. The microphone output signal can be a digital signal. Thus, the first transducer, such as a microphone, or an analog-to-digital converter can convert the analog audio signal into a digital microphone output signal. All signals can be sound signals or signals including information about sound. The hearing device can include a signal processor. One or more microphone output signals can be provided to the signal processor for processing the one or more microphone output signals. The signals can be processed to compensate for the user's hearing impairment. The signal processor can provide a modified signal. The hearing device can include a receiver or a speaker or a loudspeaker. The receiver can be connected to the output of the signal processor. The receiver can output the modified signal into the user's ear. The receiver or a digital-to-analog converter can convert the modified signal (digital signal) from the processor into an analog signal.

[0014] The input transducer / microphone and the receiver / speaker can be located within the hearing device housing. However, the microphone and / or the speaker are optionally located in an element connected to a connector, such as an ITE housing. Thus, the microphone and / or the speaker can be located in the in-ear module rather than in the behind-the-ear housing. The hearing device can include more than one microphone, and the behind-the-ear housing can include at least one microphone, and the in-ear module can also include at least one microphone.

[0015] The hearing device signal processor can include elements such as an amplifier, a compressor, and / or a noise reduction system. The signal processor can be implemented in a signal processing chip or a PCB. The hearing device can also have a filter function, such as a compensation filter for optimizing the output signal.

[0016] The hearing device can also include a wireless communication unit, such as a wireless communication circuit, for wireless data communication interconnected with an antenna, such as a radio frequency (RF) antenna or a magnetic induction antenna, for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic fields. The wireless communication unit including a radio or a transceiver can be connected to the hearing device signal processor and the antenna for communicating with one or more external devices, such as one or more external electronic devices, including at least one smart phone, at least one tablet computer, at least one hearing accessory device, including at least one mate microphone, a remote control, an audio test device, etc., or in some embodiments, communicating with another hearing device in a binaural hearing device system, such as another hearing device located in the other ear.

[0017] The hearing device can be any hearing device, such as any hearing device that compensates for the hearing loss of a hearing device wearer, or such as any hearing device that provides sound to the wearer, or such as a hearing device that provides noise cancellation, or such as a hearing device that provides tinnitus mitigation / masking. Those skilled in the art are familiar with different types of hearing devices and different options for arranging the hearing device in or at the ear of the hearing device wearer.

[0018] For example, the hearing device can be a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing device, where the behind-the-ear module includes a hearing device assembly provided and mounted in a behind-the-ear housing as a unit, which is configured to be in an operating position behind the wearer's ear. Typically, a sound tube extends from the behind-the-ear housing to the wearer's ear canal.

[0019] For example, the hearing device can be an in-the-canal receiver (RIC) or receiver-in-the-ear (RIE or RITE) type hearing device, where the receiver is located within the wearer's ear (such as within the ear canal) during use, for example as part of an in-the-ear module, while other hearing device components, such as a processor, a wireless communication unit, a battery, etc., are provided and mounted in a behind-the-ear housing of a behind-the-ear module as a unit. Typically, a wired tube connects the in-the-ear module and the behind-the-ear module. It should be contemplated that a tube module including the tube can include additional hearing instrument components and connectors.

[0020] The hearing device includes a behind-the-ear housing. The housing includes a bottom or a side. The housing includes a top or a side. The top is opposite to the bottom. The housing includes a front or a side. The housing includes a rear or a side. The rear is opposite to the front. The behind-the-ear housing can have any size, shape, and / or color. Preferably, the behind-the-ear housing includes an elongated or longitudinal or extended shape such that the top and the bottom can be longer or more extended than the front and the rear. Thus, the housing can extend in the longitudinal direction. The behind-the-ear housing can be configured to be worn behind the user's ear, and the housing can be oriented such that when the hearing device is in an operating position in or at the user's ear, the top is generally upward, while the bottom is generally downward. When the hearing device is in an operating position in or at the user's ear, the top and the bottom can be generally horizontal portions. When the hearing device is in an operating position in or at the user's ear, the front and the rear can be generally vertical portions. The front and the rear can be the middle or side portions of the housing.

[0021] The post-auricular housing can be made of a plastic material, such as any synthetic or semi-synthetic organic compound, which can be ductile or flexible and thus can be molded into a housing. The material can be a hard material or the material can be a soft material. The housing can be made of a conductive material such that the material can allow an electric current to flow through the material of the housing. The housing can include a mixture of materials such that one or more parts or sections or elements of the housing can be made of one material while another or more parts or sections or elements of the housing can be made of another material.

[0022] The hearing device includes a connector. The connector is configured to be removably attached to the housing. In other words, the connector is removably or releasably attached or fixed or mounted or fastened or interconnected to or with the housing. The connector can be mechanically fixed to the housing. The connector can provide mechanical fixation to the housing. The connector can engage or be engaged to the housing. The connector can be arranged in the bottom of the housing. Optionally, the connector can be arranged to the middle or side or part of the housing, such as arranged on the front or rear of the housing.

[0023] The connector is configured to connect the housing to an element. The connector can include a wire or cable for providing an electrical connection between an electrical component placed in the housing and an electrical component placed in the element. Optionally or additionally, the connector can include a tube, such as a sound tube.

[0024] The element can be removably or releasably attached or fixed or mounted or fastened or interconnected to or with the connector. Optionally, the element can be an integral non-removable part of the connector. The element is configured to be arranged in or at the user's ear. The element can be an in-ear module, an in-ear housing, an in-ear receiver, for example a receiver configured to be set in the user's ear, and / or a receiver in the ear canal, such as a receiver configured to be set in the user's ear canal. The element can include a microphone and / or a receiver. The element can include a motion lock, which can provide additional support for the placement of the hearing device and further assist in removing the hearing device from the ear. The element can be part of the hearing device.

[0025] The housing includes a locking element. The locking element is configured to lock the connector to the housing or lock the connector within the housing. The locking element can include an elongated or longitudinal shape. The locking element can extend in the longitudinal direction.

[0026] The housing includes a guide for at least a part of the connector. The guide can accommodate at least a part of the connector. At least a part of the connector can be set or arranged in or within the guide. The guide can be configured to guide, direct, convey, fix, hold, etc. at least a part of the connector. The connector can be guided through the guide, in the housing and / or in the locking element.

[0027] Advantageously, during insertion of the connector into the housing and / or removal from the housing, the guide can guide or direct or facilitate the movement or displacement or orientation of the connector within the locking element.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the guide is provided in the locking element. The guide can include a sculpted portion or groove or furrow in / of the locking element. The guide can have an elongated or longitudinal shape in the locking element. The shape of the groove can be elongated or extended in the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the connector is configured to be arranged or disposed in the bottom of the housing. Accordingly, the locking element configured to lock the connector to / lock in the housing can also be configured to be arranged or disposed in the bottom of the housing. Optionally, the connector and the locking element can be configured to be arranged or disposed in the top or front or rear of the housing.

[0030] Advantageously, the connector is arranged and thus locked in the bottom of the housing so that the free, available, unused, unoccupied or unfilled volume or space in the hearing device can be utilized. In other words, advantageously, the available volume or space within the housing of the hearing device can be used to set or lock the connector to the bottom of the housing or lock it in the bottom of the housing, so that the volume or space within the housing of the hearing device is not used by other components or assemblies.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the connector includes a first electrical connection element and a second electrical connection element. The first electrical connection element is configured to be arranged in a recess in the bottom of the housing.

[0032] The recess or hole or indentation or connector socket or receiving portion of the housing provided in the bottom of the housing can be configured to receive the first electrical connection element. An overlap can be provided between a portion of the first electrical connection element and a portion of the locking element (such as at the interface between the first electrical connection element and the locking element).

[0033] The first electronic connection element may include a first side and a second side, the first side being arranged opposite the second side. When the first electronic connection element is arranged in a recess in the housing, the first side may face inwardly towards the housing. When the first electronic connection element is arranged in a recess in the housing, the second side may face outwardly, such as away from the housing. The first electronic connection element may include a printed circuit board (PCB) and / or may include electronic or electrical components arranged on a substrate. The PCB may be arranged on the first side of the first electronic connection element. The PCB may include one or more connections or contacts. The bottom of the recess in the housing may likewise include one or more connections or contacts. The one or more connections respectively provided on the PCB and on the bottom of the recess may provide a connection between electronic or electrical components, such as a receiver, which may be arranged in an element connected to a connector, and an electronic or electrical component arranged in the housing, such as a signal processor. The first electronic connection element may be connected to a second electronic connection element.

[0034] The first electronic connection element is configured to be arranged in a recess in the bottom of the housing, such that when the first electronic connection element is arranged in a recess in the bottom of the housing, the second side of the first electronic connection element may be flush or aligned with the outer surface of the housing, such as may be flush with the outer surface side of the bottom of the housing. Thus, when the first electronic connection element is arranged in a recess in the bottom of the housing, the second side of the first electronic connection element may provide a part of the entire outer surface of the hearing device housing.

[0035] The second electronic connection element may be connected or attached to an element, which may be, for example, an in-ear module. The element may be removably or releasably connected or attached or fixed or mounted or fastened or interconnected to the second electronic connection element or may be interconnected with the second electronic connection element. The second electronic connection element may include wires or cables for providing an electrical connection between an electrical component arranged in the housing and an electrical component arranged in the element. Optionally or additionally, the second electronic connection element may include a tube, such as a sound tube.

[0036] Advantageously, arranging the first electronic connection element in a recess in the bottom of the housing enables utilization of the free, available, unused, unoccupied or unfilled volume or space in the hearing device. In other words, advantageously, the available volume or space within the housing of the hearing device may be used to arrange the first electronic connection element in a recess in the bottom of the housing, so that the volume or space within the housing of the hearing device is not used by other elements or components.

[0037] According to some embodiments, the second electronic connection element of the connector includes a main portion and a secondary portion. The main portion is configured to be arranged in a guide. The secondary portion is configured to extend from the housing.

[0038] The guiding member may be configured to receive at least a portion of the connector, such as a major portion of the second electronic connection element of the connector. The second electronic connection element of the connector may include a bent or curled or curved shape. The major portion of the second electronic connection element of the connector may be configured to be received in the guiding member, and thus the major portion may be configured to be set or recessed in the guiding member. The minor portion of the second electronic connection element of the connector may be configured to extend or protrude from the guiding member, such as extend from a locking element, such as extend from a housing. Thus, the portion of the connector including the bent shape may be configured to be set in the guiding member, while another portion of the connector may be configured to extend from the housing.

[0039] Advantageously, the minor portion extends from the housing, because this enables an element that can be part of the hearing device and can be removably attached to the second electronic connection element to be provided outside the housing.

[0040] Advantageously, the major portion is configured to be arranged in the guiding member, because this enables the guiding member to guide or direct or facilitate the movement or displacement or orientation of the major portion of the connector within the locking element during insertion of the connector into the housing and / or removal.

[0041] According to some embodiments, the locking element is configured to transition or change between a first state and a second state. The first state is an open state, in which the locking element is configured such that the connector can be arranged at the bottom of the housing or removed from the bottom of the housing. The second state is a locked state, in which the locking element is configured such that the connector cannot be arranged in the bottom of the housing or removed from the bottom of the housing.

[0042] In other words, the first state is the state in which the locking element is open, whereby the connector is configured to be attached in the housing or detached. The second state is the state in which the locking element is closed, whereby the connector cannot be attached in the housing or detached. Thus, the locking element may be configured to transition between the open state and the locked state, or may be configured to transition between open and locked.

[0043] In the first state, the locking element may be configured such that the first electronic connection element of the connector can be arranged at the bottom of the housing and / or removed from the bottom of the housing, such as removed from a recess in the bottom of the housing. In the second state, the locking element may be configured such that the first electronic connection element of the connector cannot be arranged in the bottom of the housing and / or removed from the bottom of the housing, such as removed from a recess in the bottom of the housing.

[0044] Advantageously, the second state of the locking element can prevent the connector from falling out of the housing or prevent the connector from accidentally or inadvertently separating from the housing. In other words, advantageously, when the locking element is in the first state, the connector can be removed or separated only from the housing of the hearing device.

[0045] Advantageously, the first state of the locking element may enable the connector to be firmly removed from the housing, such as removed from the housing without damaging the connector or the housing.

[0046] According to some embodiments, the locking element is configured to transition / change between a first state and a second state by moving the locking element in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing. The longitudinal direction of the housing extends from the front portion of the housing to the rear portion of the housing.

[0047] The direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing may be the same direction as the longitudinal direction of the housing.

[0048] Advantageously, transitioning between the first and second states by moving the locking element, since this enables the locking and / or unlocking of the lock and / or locking element to be manually operated, for example by a user sliding or pressing or pushing the locking element with a finger or fingernail, such that the locking element can be changed between the first state and the second state.

[0049] According to some embodiments, moving the locking element in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing includes moving the locking element in a direction parallel to the surface of the portion of the housing where the locking element is disposed or arranged.

[0050] The locking element may be configured to be disposed in the bottom of the housing. Thus, moving the locking element in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the housing may include moving the locking element in a direction parallel to the surface of the bottom of the housing.

[0051] According to some embodiments, when the locking element is in the first state, at least a portion of the locking element protrudes from the housing. When the locking element is in the second state, the locking element is flush or aligned with the bottom of the housing.

[0052] When the locking element is in the first state, at least a portion of the locking element may protrude from the front portion and / or the bottom of the housing. When the locking element is in the first state, at least a portion of the locking element may protrude from the interface or boundary between the front portion and the bottom of the housing. When the locking element is in the second state, the locking element may be flush or aligned with the outer surface of the housing, the outer surface of the bottom of the housing, the front portion of the housing, the front portion and the bottom of the housing, and / or flush or aligned with the front portion of the housing while also being flush or aligned with the bottom of the housing.

[0053] When the locking element is in the second state, the locking element may be flush or aligned with the surface (such as the outer surface) of the portion of the housing where the locking element is disposed or arranged.

[0054] Advantageously, the user can easily identify whether the locking element is in the first state or the second state. Further advantageously, when the locking element is in the first state, the user can push or move the protruding portion of the locking element, such that the user moves or pushes the locking element to the second state, thereby enabling the user to close the lock.

[0055] According to some embodiments, the guide provided in the locking element includes a passage, such as a cutout or a groove or a furrow, for receiving a major portion of the second electrical connection element of the connector, and wherein the locking element is configured to change between a first state and a second state while the major portion of the second electrical connection element of the connector is received in the passage. Advantageously, the locking element can move and change state, such as from the first state to the second state or from the second state to the first state, while the major portion of the second electrical connection element is disposed in the passage, thus enabling the locking element to slide around the second electrical connection element. Advantageously, the passage in the locking element can lock the connector in the housing while at least a portion of the connector extends from the housing.

[0056] According to some embodiments, the connector is configured to be disposed in the bottom of the housing by inserting a first electrical connection element of the connector into a recess in the bottom of the housing, wherein the insertion direction is at an angle of 10 to 80 degrees, such as 20 to 70 degrees, such as 30 to 60 degrees, such as 40 to 50 degrees, such as about 45 degrees, relative to the longitudinal direction of the housing. An insertion angle of 0 degrees can correspond to a direct insertion in the front, while a 90-degree insertion angle can correspond to a direct downward insertion in the bottom. Thus, an insertion direction between 10 and 80 degrees relative to the longitudinal direction of the housing can correspond to a combined action of a direct insertion in the front and a direct downward insertion in the bottom. This angle can be an inclined angle. The inclined insertion can be referred to as a "ski boot" insertion.

[0057] Advantageously, the connector can be inserted at an angle between 10 and 80 degrees relative to the longitudinal direction of the housing, as this enables the connector to be firmly inserted in the housing before locking the lock, such as before locking the connector to the housing or locking it in the housing.

[0058] According to some embodiments, the first electrical connection element of the connector includes an inclined plane facing the locking element, whereby a slot is formed between the locking element and the first electrical connection element of the connector when the locking element is in the second state. Thus, when the first electrical connection element is disposed in the recess of the housing, a second side of the first electrical connection element, which can face outward, such as away from the housing, can include an inclined surface facing the locking element. When the locking element is in the second state, a slot is formed at the interface between the locking element and the first electrical connection element of the connector.

[0059] Advantageously, the user can move or push or pull the locking element from the second state to the first state using a fingertip and / or a fingernail. Thus, advantageously, no tool is required to unlock the lock, such as moving the locking element from the locked state to the open state.

[0060] According to some embodiments, the locking element includes a first side and a second side, where the first side is opposite the second side, and the first side includes a guide, while the second side includes a protrusion configured to slide between a first position and a second position, the first position corresponding to the first state of the locking element and the second position corresponding to the second state of the locking element. The protrusion may include a latch. The protrusion may be configured to slide between the first and second positions in a corresponding track or guide or path contained in the housing. The track contained in the housing may include three sections, the first section being configured to receive the protrusion in the first position when the locking element is in the first state, the second section being configured to receive the protrusion in the second position when the locking element is in the second position, and the third section being configured to receive the protrusion when the protrusion is in an intermediate position between the first and second positions. The intermediate position may not be a rest position of the protrusion, in other words, the protrusion does not remain in the intermediate position for a long time. Thus, the third section of the track contained in the housing may include a rise or elevation relative to the first and second sections. Thus, when the protrusion can slide between the first and second sections, the protrusion can pass through the rise in the third section of the track.

[0061] Advantageously, the protrusion can act as a latch with a spring effect. Advantageously, a robust lock that is easy to operate is provided.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the locking element includes a guide rail for guiding the locking element within the housing when the locking element changes between the first state and the second state.

[0063] The guide rail may be arranged on a side of the locking element other than the first side and other than the second side. Thus, the guide rail may be arranged on the third and / or fourth side of the locking element, and the third and fourth sides of the locking element may be arranged opposite each other.

[0064] The housing may include a portion corresponding to the guide rail in the locking element, so the housing may include a rail set or arranged or received in the guide rail of the locking element. The guide rail may include a dent in the locking element, while the rail may include a protrusion in the housing.

[0065] Advantageously, the guide rail guides the locking element when the locking element moves between the first and second positions. Thus, advantageously, the guide rail and / or the corresponding rail can guide the movement of the locking element. Thus, a robust lock, such as a robust mechanical lock, is advantageously provided.

[0066] The connector may include a member or a stop device for preventing a tensile force from opening the lock or the locking element, e.g., to prevent the unintentional detachment of the connector from the housing. The member may be provided at the interface of the first and second electronic connection elements. The member may be part of the first electronic connection element and may project from the first electronic connection element. When the connector is inserted into the housing, the member may be disposed in a corresponding indentation of a rail placed in the housing. Thus, when the connector is inserted into the housing, a tensile force in the longitudinal direction of the housing may be obtained at the bottom of the housing in the connector. When the connector is inserted in the housing and the locking element is in the second state, a tensile force in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the housing may be obtained in the connector through the locking element. Thus, advantageously, a tensile force in the connector is obtained and the unintentional detachment of the connector from the housing may be prevented.

[0067] The present invention relates to different aspects, including the hearing devices described above and below, as well as corresponding hearing devices, methods, apparatuses, systems, networks, kits, uses, and / or product devices, each of which obtains one or more of the benefits and advantages described in connection with the first-mentioned aspect, and each of which has one or more embodiments corresponding to the embodiments described in connection with the first-mentioned aspect and / or disclosed in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0068] The above and other features and advantages will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0069] Figure 1a )、1b) and 1c) schematically show exemplary hearing devices;

[0070] Figure 2a ) and 2b) schematically show a part of an exemplary hearing device;

[0071] Figure 3a ) and 3b) schematically show a cross-sectional view of a part of an exemplary hearing device;

[0072] Figure 4 a), b) and c) in schematically show a cross-sectional view of a part of an exemplary hearing device;

[0073] Figure 5a ) and 5b) schematically show an exemplary locking element according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0074] Figure 6 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a part of an exemplary hearing device;

[0075] Figure 7 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a part of an exemplary hearing device;

[0076] Figure 8 Schematically shows an exemplary hearing device; and

[0077] Figure 9 Schematically shows an exemplary hearing device.

[0078] List of Reference Numerals

[0079] 2 Hearing device

[0080] 4 (behind-the-ear) housing

[0081] 6 Bottom of the housing

[0082] 8 Top of the housing

[0083] 10 Front of the housing

[0084] 12 Rear of the housing

[0085] 14 Connector

[0086] 16 Component

[0087] 18 Locking element

[0088] 20 Guide

[0089] 22 First electronic connection element

[0090] 24 Second electronic connection element

[0091] 26 Main part of the second electronic connection element

[0092] 28 Minor part of the second electronic connection element

[0093] 30 Recess

[0094] 32 First state of the locking element

[0095] 34 Second state of the locking element

[0096] 36 Longitudinal direction

[0097] 38 Channel

[0098] 40 Angle relative to the longitudinal direction

[0099] 42 Inclined plane

[0100] 44 Groove

[0101] 46 First side of the locking element

[0102] 48 Second side of the locking element

[0103] 50 protrusion

[0104] 52 First position of the protrusion

[0105] 53 First section of the track

[0106] 54 Second position of the protrusion

[0107] 55 Second section of the track

[0108] 56 Guide rail

[0109] 57 Third section of the track

[0110] 60 Microphone

[0111] 62 Signal processor

[0112] 64 Speaker

[0113] 66 Wireless communication unit

[0114] 68 Antenna

[0115] 70 PCB

[0116] 72 Contact Detailed implementation mode

[0117] In the following, various embodiments are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Similar reference numerals always refer to similar elements. Therefore, for the description of each figure, similar elements will not be described in detail. It should also be noted that the drawings are only for facilitating the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. Additionally, the illustrated embodiments do not necessarily have all the aspects or advantages shown. The aspects or advantages described in connection with a particular embodiment are not necessarily limited to that embodiment and can be practiced in any other embodiment, even if not so stated or not so explicitly described.

[0118] Throughout, the same reference numerals are always used for the same or corresponding parts.

[0119] Figure 1a 、 1b and 1c schematically show an exemplary hearing device 2. The hearing device 2 includes a behind-the-ear housing 4. The housing 4 includes a bottom 6, a top 8 opposite the bottom 6, a front portion 10, and a rear portion 12 opposite the front portion 10. The hearing device 2 includes a connector 14. The connector 14 is configured to be removably attached to the housing 4. The connector 14 is configured to connect the housing 4 to an element 16, such as Figure 1cAs shown. The component 16 is configured to be arranged in or at the user's ear. The housing 4 includes a locking element 18. The locking element 18 is configured to lock the connector 14 to the housing 4 / lock the connector 14 in the housing 4. The housing 4 includes a guide 20 for at least a portion of the connector 14.

[0120] The guide 20 is provided in the locking element 18.

[0121] The connector 14 is configured to be arranged in the bottom 6 of the housing 4.

[0122] The connector 14 includes a first electronic connection element 22 and a second electronic connection element 24, wherein the first electronic connection element 22 is configured to be arranged in a recess (not shown) in the bottom 6 of the housing 4.

[0123] The locking element 18 is configured to switch / change between a first state 32 and a second state 34. Figure 1b The first state 32 shown is an open state, in which the locking element 18 is configured such that the connector 14 can be arranged in or removed from the bottom 6 of the housing 4. Figure 1a The second state 34 shown is a locked state, in which the locking element 18 is configured such that the connector 14 cannot be arranged in or removed from the bottom 6 of the housing 4.

[0124] The locking element 18 is configured to move the locking element 18 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction 36 of the housing 4 to switch or change between the first state 32 ( Figure 1b shown) and the second state 34 ( Figure 1a shown), and the longitudinal direction 36 of the housing 4 extends from the front of the housing 4 to the rear of the housing 4.

[0125] Figure 1a and 1b As shown, moving the locking element 18 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction 36 of the housing 4 includes moving the locking element 18 in a direction parallel to the surface of the portion of the housing 4 where the locking element is arranged.

[0126] Figure 1b As shown, when the locking element 18 is in the first state 32, at least a portion of the locking element 18 protrudes from the housing 4, for example, from the surface of the housing. Figure 1a As shown, when the locking element 18 is in the second state 34, the locking element 18 is flush with or aligned with the bottom 6 of the housing 4.

[0127] Figure 2a and 2b Schematically shows a part of an exemplary hearing device 2. Figure 2a and 2bShows a part of the hearing device 2 as viewed from an angle different from that of FIG. 1.

[0128] The hearing device 2 includes a behind-the-ear housing 4 and a connector 14. The housing 4 includes a locking element 18. The locking element 18 is configured to lock the connector 14 to / within the housing 4.

[0129] The locking element 18 is configured to transition or change between a first state 32 and a second state 34. Figure 2b The first state 32 shown is an open state in which the locking element 18 is configured such that the connector 14 can be arranged in or removed from the bottom 6 of the housing 4. Figure 2a The second state 34 shown is a locked state in which the locking element 18 is configured such that the connector 14 cannot be arranged in or removed from the bottom 6 of the housing 4.

[0130] The locking element 18 is configured to transition or change between the first state 32 ( Figure 2b shown) and the second state 34 ( Figure 2a shown) by moving the locking element 18 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction 36 of the housing 4, which extends from the front to the rear of the housing 4.

[0131] Figure 3a and 3b Schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a part of an exemplary hearing device 2. The hearing device 2 includes a behind-the-ear housing 4 (shown by the thin grey line) and a connector 14. The housing 4 includes a locking element 18. The locking element 18 is configured to lock the connector 14 to / within the housing 4.

[0132] The connector 14 includes a first electronic connection element 22 and a second electronic connection element 24, where the first electronic connection element 22 is configured to be arranged in the recess 30 in the bottom 6 of the housing 4.

[0133] The second electronic connection element 24 of the connector 14 includes a main part (not shown) and a minor part 28, where the main part is configured to be arranged in the guide 20, and where the minor part 28 is configured to extend from the housing 4.

[0134] Figure 3b Shows that the first electronic connection element 22 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 70. The PCB 70 may include one or more contacts 72. The bottom of the recess 30 in the housing 4 may similarly include one or more contacts (not shown). The one or more contacts 72 provided on the PCB 70 and at the bottom of the recess 30 respectively may provide an electrical connection between the electrical components in the element (not shown) connected to the connector 14 and the components placed in the housing 4.

[0135] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of an exemplary hearing device 2. The hearing device 2 includes a behind-the-ear housing 4 and a connector 14. The housing 4 includes a locking element 18. The locking element 18 is configured to lock the connector 14 to the housing 4 / lock it in the housing 4. The connector includes a second connection element 24.

[0136] The second electrical connection element 24 of the connector 14 includes a main portion 26 and a secondary portion 28. The main portion 26 is configured to be arranged in a guide. The secondary portion 28 is configured to extend from the housing 4. In Figure 4 which, the dashed line schematically shows that the connector 14 includes a main portion 26 (below the dashed line) and a secondary portion 28 (above the dashed line). Thus, Figure 4 the main portion 26, which is shown as the part of the second electrical connection element 24 arranged below the dashed line, is arranged inside or within the housing 4, or in other words, is surrounded by the housing 4 when the connector 14 is attached to the housing 4. Similarly, Figure 4 the secondary portion 28, which is shown as the part of the connector 14 arranged above the dashed line, extends from the housing 4, or in other words, is arranged outside the housing 4 when the connector is attached to the housing 4.

[0137] The locking element 18 is configured to switch or change between a first state 32 and a second state 34. Figure 4 The first state 32 shown in c) in is an open state, in which the locking element 18 is configured such that the connector 14 can be arranged in or removed from the bottom 6 of the housing 4. Figure 4 The second state 34 shown in a) in is a locked state, in which the locking element 18 is configured such that the connector 14 cannot be arranged in or removed from the bottom 6 of the housing 4. Figure 4 b) in shows the locking element 18 in an intermediate state, i.e., between the first state 32 and the second state 34.

[0138] Figure 4 Shows the arrangement of the connector 14 when the connector 14 is inserted in the housing 4, and more specifically, the arrangement of the main portion 26 of the connector 14, which remains stationary relative to the rest of the housing, regardless of which state the locking element 18 is in, because the guide (not shown) provided in the locking element 18 includes a channel (not shown) for receiving the main portion 26 of the second electrical connection element 24 of the connector 14. The locking element 18 is thus configured to be in a first state 32 ( Figure 4 shown in c) in ) and a second state 34 ( Figure 4vary between that shown in a) of [reference], while a main portion 26 of a second electrical connection element 24 of the connector 14 is received in a channel (not shown). The channel and the guide are shown in Figure 5a which shows the locking element 18 viewed from different angles.

[0139] The locking element 18 includes a protrusion 50 configured to slide between a first position 52 and a second position 54. The dashed circle highlights the Figure 4 position of the protrusion 50 in [reference]. The first position 52 ( Figure 4 shown in c) of [reference]) corresponds to a first state 32 of the locking element 18. The second position 54 ( Figure 4 shown in a) of [reference]) corresponds to a second state 34 of the locking element 18. When the locking element is between the first state 32 and the second state 34, the protrusion 50 is located between the first position 52 and the second position 54, as Figure 4 shown in b) of [reference].

[0140] Figure 4 It is shown that the protrusion 50 may include a latch. The protrusion 50 may be configured to slide between a first position 52 and a second position 54 in a respective track included in the housing 4. The track included in the housing 4 may include three sections, a first section 53 configured to receive the protrusion 50 in the first position 52 when the locking element 18 is in the first state 32 (as Figure 4 shown by the dashed circle in c) of [reference]), a second section 55 configured to receive the protrusion 50 in the second position 54 when the locking element 18 is in the second state 34 (as Figure 4 shown by the dashed circle in a) of [reference]), and a third section 57 configured to receive the protrusion 50 when the protrusion 50 is in an intermediate position between the first position 52 and the second position 54 (as Figure 4 shown by the dashed circle in b) of [reference]). This intermediate position may not be a rest position of the protrusion 50. In other words, the protrusion 50 acts as a latch with a spring effect and cannot remain in the intermediate position for a long time. Thus, as Figure 4 shown in b) of [reference], the third section 57 of the track included in the housing 4 may include a rise or elevation relative to the first section 53 and the second section 55. Thus, when the protrusion 50 slides between the first section 53 in the first position 52 and the second section 55 in the second position 54, the protrusion 50 can pass through the rise in the third section 57 of the track.

[0141] FIG. 5 schematically shows an exemplary locking element 18 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5a and 5b show the locking element 18 viewed from two different angles. Figure 5a and 5bIt is shown that the locking element 18 includes a first side 46 and a second side 48, where the first side 46 is opposite to the second side 48. The first side 46 includes a guide 20. The second side 48 includes a protrusion 50 that is configured to slide between a first position 52 and a second position 54. The first position 52 corresponds to the first state 32 of the locking element 18, while the second position 54 corresponds to the second state 34 of the locking element 18.

[0142] Figure 5a and 5b It is shown that the locking element 18 includes a guide rail 56 for guiding the locking element 18 within the housing 4 when the locking element 18 changes between the first state 32 and the second state 34.

[0143] The guide rail 56 is shown to be arranged on two sides of the locking element other than the first side 46 and the second side 48. Thus, the guide rail 56 is shown to be arranged on two sides of the locking element that are opposite to each other and opposite to the first side 46 and the second side 48.

[0144] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of an exemplary hearing device is shown. Figure 6 It is shown that the connector 14 is attached to the housing 4. Figure 6 It is shown that the connector 14 is arranged in the bottom 6 of the housing 4, so that the first electronic connection element 22 of the connector 14 is inserted into the recess 30 of the bottom 6 of the housing 4. The locking element 18 is in the second state 34. The locking element is configured to change between a first state (not shown) and the second state 34. Examples of the locking element in the first state can be seen in Figure 1b 、 2b 、4c and 8.

[0145] Figure 6 It is shown that the first electronic connection element 22 of the connector 14 includes an inclined plane 42 facing the locking element 18, whereby when the locking element 18 is in the second state 34, a slot 44 is provided between the locking element 18 and the first electronic connection element 22 of the connector 14.

[0146] Figure 6 It is shown that the locking element includes a guide. The guide 20 provided in the locking element 18 includes a channel 38 for receiving the main part 26 of the second electronic connection element 24 of the connector 14. The locking element 18 is configured to change between the first state 32 and a second state (not shown), and the main part 26 of the second electronic connection element 24 of the connector 14 is received in the channel 38.

[0147] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view schematically showing a part of an exemplary hearing device is shown.

[0148] Figure 7It is shown that the connector 14 is attached to the housing 4. Figure 7 It is shown that the first electronic connection element 22 is inserted into the recess 30 at the bottom 6 of the housing 4. The locking element 18 is in the second state 34. The locking element is configured to change between a first state (not shown) and the second state 34. Examples of the locking element in the first state can be seen in Figure 1b , 2b , 4c and 8.

[0149] Figure 7 It is shown that when the locking element is in the second state 34, there is an overlap between a part of the first electronic connection element 22 and a part of the locking element 18. This overlap is highlighted by a dashed circle in Figure 7 .

[0150] Figure 8 An exemplary hearing device is schematically shown. Figure 8 It is shown that the connector 14 is configured to be removably attached to the housing 4. Figure 8 It is shown that the connector 14 is removed from, disassembled from, or outside the housing 4. The connector includes a first electronic connection element 22 and a second electronic connection element 24. The second electronic connection element 24 includes a main part 26 and a minor part 28. See Figure 4 for an illustration that when the connector 14 is arranged in the housing 4, the main part 26 is configured to be disposed within the housing 4, and when the connector 14 is arranged in the housing 4, the minor part 28 is configured to extend from the housing 4.

[0151] Figure 8 It is shown that the connector 14 is configured to be arranged in the bottom 6 of the housing 4 by inserting the first electronic connection element 22 of the connector 14 into the recess 30 at the bottom 6 of the housing 4. The insertion direction is at an angle 40 of 10 to 80 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction 36 of the housing 4. In Figure 8 , the angle 40 is approximately 45 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction 36 of the housing 4.

[0152] Figure 8 It is shown that the locking element 18 includes a guide 20. The locking element 18 is in the first state 32. The guide 20 provided in the locking element 18 includes a channel 38 for receiving the main part 26 of the second electronic element 24 of the connector 14. The locking element 18 is configured to change between the first state 32 and a second state (not shown) while the main part 26 of the second electronic connection element 24 of the connector 14 is received in the channel 38. Examples of the locking element changing between the first state and the second state when the main part of the second electronic connection element of the connector is received in the channel can be seen in Figure 4 .

[0153] Figure 9A block diagram of an exemplary hearing device 2 is schematically shown. The hearing device 2 may include a first transducer, e.g., a microphone 60, to generate one or more microphone output signals based on received audio signals. The one or more microphone output signals may be provided to a signal processor 62 for processing the one or more microphone output signals. A receiver or speaker 64 may be connected to the output of the signal processor 62 for converting the output of the signal processor into a modified signal to compensate for the user's hearing loss, and the signal processor 62 may provide the modified signal to the speaker 64. In Figure 9 FIG. 1, the microphone 60 and the speaker 64 are depicted as being located within the hearing device housing 4. However, the microphone 60 and / or the speaker 64 may optionally be located in an element 16 (not shown) connected to a connector 14 (not shown). Thus, the microphone 60 and / or the speaker 64 may be located in an in-ear module (not shown) rather than in the behind-the-ear housing 4. The hearing device 2 may include more than one microphone 60, and the behind-the-ear housing 4 may include at least one microphone 60, and the in-ear module (not shown) may also include at least one microphone 60.

[0154] The hearing device signal processor 62 may include elements such as an amplifier, a compressor, and / or a noise reduction system. The signal processor 62 may be implemented in a signal processing chip or on a PCB. The hearing device 2 may further have a filter function, such as a compensation filter for optimizing the output signal.

[0155] The hearing device 2 may further include a wireless communication unit 66, such as a wireless communication circuit, for wireless data communication interconnected with an antenna 68, such as a radio frequency (RF) antenna or a magnetic induction antenna, for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic fields. The wireless communication unit 66 including a radio or a transceiver may be connected to the hearing device signal processor 62 and the antenna 68 for communicating with one or more external devices, such as one or more external electronic devices, including at least one smart phone, at least one tablet computer, at least one hearing accessory device, including at least one mate microphone, a remote control, an audio test device, etc., or in some embodiments, communicating with another hearing device in a typical binaural hearing device system, such as another hearing device located in the other ear.

[0156] Although specific features have been shown and described, it should be understood that they are not intended to limit the claimed invention, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Thus, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The claimed invention is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.

Claims

1. A hearing device (2), comprising: - a behind-the-ear housing (4), wherein the housing (4) comprises a bottom (6), a top (8) opposite the bottom (6), a front portion (10), and a rear portion (12) opposite the front portion (10), - a connector (14) configured to be removably attached to the housing (4), wherein the connector (14) is configured to connect the housing (4) to an element (16) configured to be arranged at a user's ear, wherein the housing (4) comprises a locking element (18), wherein the locking element (18) is configured to lock the connector (14) into the housing (4), and wherein the housing (4) comprises a guide (20) for at least a portion of the connector (14); wherein the locking element (18) is provided in the housing (4) and is movable relative to the housing (4), wherein the guide (20) is provided in the locking element (18) and is configured to receive at least a portion of the connector (14), and wherein the locking element (18) is slidable in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction (36) of the housing (4).

2. The hearing device (2) according to claim 1, wherein, the connector (14) is configured to be arranged in the bottom (6) of the housing (4).

3. The hearing device (2) according to claim 1, wherein, the connector (14) comprises a first electrical connection element (22) and a second electrical connection element (24), wherein the first electrical connection element (22) is configured to be arranged in a recess (30) in the bottom (6) of the housing (4).

4. The hearing device (2) according to claim 1, wherein, the second electrical connection element (24) of the connector (14) comprises a main portion (26) and a secondary portion (28), wherein the main portion (26) is configured to be arranged in the guide (20), and wherein the secondary portion (28) is configured to extend from the housing (4).

5. The hearing device (2) according to claim 1, wherein, the locking element (18) is configured to switch or change between a first state (32) and a second state (34), wherein the first state (32) is an open state in which the locking element (18) is configured to enable the connector (14) to be arranged in or removed from the bottom (6) of the housing (4), and wherein the second state (34) is a locked state in which the locking element (18) is configured to prevent the connector (14) from being arranged in or removed from the bottom (6) of the housing (4).

6. The hearing device (2) according to claim 5, wherein, The locking element (18) is configured to transition or change between the first state (32) and the second state (34) by moving in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction (36) of the housing (4), the longitudinal direction (36) of the housing (4) extending from the front portion of the housing (4) to the rear portion of the housing (4).

7. The hearing device (2) according to claim 6, wherein, moving the locking element (18) in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction (36) of the housing (4) includes moving the locking element (18) in a direction parallel to the surface of the portion of the housing (4) where the locking element (18) is provided.

8. The hearing device (2) according to claim 5, wherein, when the locking element (18) is in the first state (32), at least a portion of the locking element (18) protrudes from the housing (4), and when the locking element (18) is in the second state (34), the locking element (18) is flush with or aligned with the bottom (6) of the housing (4).

9. The hearing device (2) according to claim 5, wherein, the guide (20) provided in the locking element (18) includes a channel (38) for receiving a main portion (26) of the second electrical connection element (24) of the connector (14), and wherein the locking element (18) is configured to change between the first state (32) and the second state (34) while the main portion (26) of the second electrical connection element (24) of the connector (14) is received in the channel (38).

10. The hearing device (2) according to claim 3, wherein, the connector (14) is configured to be arranged in the bottom (6) of the housing (4) by inserting the first electrical connection element (22) of the connector (14) into a recess (30) in the bottom (6) of the housing (4), wherein the insertion direction forms an angle (40) of 10 to 80 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction (36) of the housing (4).

11. The hearing device (2) according to claim 5, wherein, the first electrical connection element (22) of the connector (14) includes an inclined plane (42) facing the locking element (18), such that when the locking element (18) is in the second state (34), a slot (44) is formed between the locking element (18) and the first electrical connection element (22) of the connector (14).

12. The hearing device (2) according to claim 5, wherein, The locking element (18) comprises a first side (46) and a second side (48), wherein the first side (46) is opposite to the second side (48), and the first side (46) comprises the guide (20), while the second side (48) comprises a projection (50) configured to slide between a first position (52) and a second position (54), the first position (52) corresponding to a first state (32) of the locking element (18), and the second position (54) corresponding to a second state (34) of the locking element (18).

13. The hearing device (2) according to claim 5, wherein, the locking element (18) comprises a guide rail (56) for guiding the locking element (18) within the housing (4) when the locking element (18) changes between the first state (32) and the second state (34).

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