Pure tone audiometer

Abstract

The invention discloses a pure tone sonometer which comprises a shell, an electric control device, a control device, a TFT display screen, a feedback handle, an air conduction audio output circuit, a bone conduction audio output circuit, an air conduction earphone and a bone conduction earphone, the electric control device is arranged in the shell, the control device is arranged in the shell and connected with the electric control device, and the TFT display screen is connected with the feedback handle. The control device is exposed on the surface of the shell; the feedback handle is electrically connected with the electric control device, and the TFT display screen is used for displaying a test result; a feedback key is arranged on the feedback handle; the air conduction audio output circuit is arranged in the shell, and the air conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected with the electric control device; the bone conduction audio output circuit is arranged in the shell, and the bone conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected with the electric control device; the air conduction earphone is connected with the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit; and the bone conduction earphone is connected with the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit. According to the technical scheme, the pure tone sonometer can improve the test accuracy.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of audiometers, and in particular to a pure tone audiometer. Background Art

[0002] Audiometer is a commonly used instrument in the fields of clinical hearing diagnosis, hearing protection and hearing rehabilitation. Audiometer is an instrument for measuring the sensitivity of an individual to various frequencies. By comparing with normal hearing, the hearing loss of the subject can be determined. In psychology, audiometer usually refers to pure audiometer. When in use, the main part of the instrument automatically provides various frequency stimulations from weak to strong, and automatically changes the frequency. When testing, the subject wears closed soundproof headphones. When hearing the sound, the key is pressed, and the instrument can directly draw the audibility curve according to the subject's response. In medicine, audiometers are often used to check hearing and measure hearing loss. The degree of hearing loss is measured by the number of decibels below the normal threshold. Hearing measurement can assess a person's hearing. Therefore, it is an indispensable instrument in hearing protection work.

[0003] Current audiometers generally have two functions: air conduction testing and bone conduction testing. When current audiometers are testing, crosstalk between the air conduction test audio and the bone conduction test audio is prone to occur, resulting in low accuracy of the test results. Summary of the invention

[0004] The main purpose of the present invention is to provide a pure tone audiometer, aiming to improve the test accuracy of the pure tone audiometer.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the pure tone audiometer proposed in the present invention comprises:

[0006] case;

[0007] An electric control device is arranged in the housing.

[0008] A control device, disposed in the housing and connected to the electric control device, and the control device is exposed on the surface of the housing;

[0009] A feedback handle, electrically connected to the electronic control device, and provided with a feedback button;

[0010] TFT display screen, which is installed on the surface of the housing and is electrically connected to the electronic control device. The TFT display screen is used to display the test results.

[0011] An air conduction audio output circuit is disposed in the housing, and the air conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected to the electronic control device;

[0012] A bone conduction audio output circuit is disposed in the housing and is electrically connected to the electronic control device;

[0013] an air conduction earphone connected to the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit; and

[0014] The bone conduction earphone is connected to the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit.

[0015] Optionally, the pure tone audiometer further comprises a voltage-controlled amplifier, and the voltage-controlled amplifier is electrically connected to the electronic control device.

[0016] Optionally, the pure tone audiometer further comprises a plurality of the voltage-controlled amplifiers, and the plurality of the voltage-controlled amplifiers are connected in cascade.

[0017] Optionally, the electronic control device includes an expansion module and a circuit assembly, the expansion module is electrically connected to the circuit assembly, the control device includes an expansion button, the expansion button is connected to the expansion module and exposed to the surface of the shell, the expansion module is used to increase the decibel range of some frequencies, and the expansion button is used to at least control the switch of the expansion module.

[0018] Optionally, the electronic control device also includes a masking module, which is electrically connected to the circuit assembly. The control device also includes a masking button, which is connected to the masking module and exposed to the surface of the shell. The masking module is used to limit the upper decibel limit, and the masking button is at least used to control the switch of the masking module.

[0019] Optionally, the electronic control device also includes a sound intensity adjustment module, a warbling sound module and a pulse sound module, and the sound intensity adjustment module, the warbling sound module and the pulse sound module are all electrically connected to the circuit component, and the control device also includes a sound intensity adjustment button, a warbling sound button and a pulse sound button, and the sound intensity adjustment button, the warbling sound button and the pulse sound button are respectively connected to the sound intensity adjustment module, the warbling sound module and the pulse sound module, and exposed to the surface of the shell.

[0020] Optionally, the pure tone audiometer further comprises a frequency adjustment module, which is electrically connected to the electronic control device; the control device further comprises an adjustment knob, which is at least partially exposed on the surface of the housing and is transmission-connected to the frequency adjustment module.

[0021] Optionally, a scale mark or a digital indication is provided on the surface of the shell near the adjusting knob.

[0022] Optionally, the shell includes an upper shell and a lower shell, an installation cavity is formed between the upper shell and the lower shell, the control device and the electronic control device are both installed in the installation cavity, and the control device is exposed from the surface of the shell.

[0023] Optionally, a non-slip pad is provided on the surface of the shell.

[0024] The technical solution of the present invention is as follows: an electric control device is arranged in a housing, a control device is arranged in the housing and connected to the electric control device, and the control device is exposed on the surface of the housing; an air conduction audio output circuit is arranged in the housing, and the air conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected to the electric control device; a bone conduction audio output circuit is arranged in the housing, and the bone conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected to the electric control device; an air conduction earphone is connected to the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit; and a bone conduction earphone is connected to the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit. In this way, when it is necessary to perform an air conduction test on a subject, the pure tone audiometer can be set to an air conduction test mode through the control device, and the air conduction earphone is plugged into the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit, and then the air conduction earphone is worn to perform an air conduction test. When it is necessary to perform a bone conduction test on a subject, the pure tone audiometer can be set to a bone conduction test mode through the control device, and the bone conduction earphone is plugged into the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit, and then the bone conduction earphone is worn to perform a bone conduction test. In this way, audio output circuits are set separately for air conduction test and bone conduction test. During the test, the corresponding audio output circuit can be selected to perform corresponding tests on the subjects, avoiding crosstalk caused by using the same audio output circuit for air conduction test and bone conduction test, thereby improving the accuracy of the hearing test of the subjects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without paying creative work.

[0026] Figure 1 It is a structural schematic diagram of an embodiment of a pure tone audiometer of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Side view of the pure tone audiometer;

[0028] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Cutaway view of a pure tone audiometer;

[0029] Figure 4 for Figure 1 Side view of the pure tone audiometer;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the principle block diagram of a pure tone audiometer.

[0031] Description of Figure Numbers:

[0032] 10. Shell; 11. Upper shell; 12. Lower shell; 13. Installation cavity; 20. Electric control device; 30. Control device; 40. TFT display screen; 50. Anti-skid pad

[0033] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0035] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present invention involve directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indications are only used to explain the relative position relationship, movement status, etc. between the components under a certain specific posture (as shown in the accompanying drawings). If the specific posture changes, the directional indication will also change accordingly.

[0036] In addition, if there are descriptions involving "first", "second", etc. in the embodiments of the present invention, the descriptions of "first", "second", etc. are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be understood as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, the features defined as "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the features. In addition, the meaning of "and / or" appearing in the full text is to include three parallel solutions. Taking "A and / or B" as an example, it includes solution A, or solution B, or a solution that satisfies both A and B. In addition, the technical solutions between the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the ability of ordinary technicians in this field to implement. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or cannot be implemented, it should be deemed that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection required by the present invention.

[0037] The present invention provides a pure tone audiometer.

[0038] In the embodiment of the present invention, Figures 1 to 5 As shown, the pure tone audiometer includes a housing 10, an electronic control device 20, a control device 30, a feedback handle, an air conduction audio output circuit, a bone conduction audio output circuit, an air conduction earphone and a bone conduction earphone.

[0039] Specifically, the electronic control device 20 is disposed in the housing 10, and is used to process and control the generation and output of audio signals. The control device 30 is disposed in the housing 10 and connected to the electronic control device 20, and the control device 30 is exposed on the surface of the housing 10. The user can operate the pure tone audiometer through the control device 30, set test parameters (such as frequency, decibel, etc.), and start or stop the test. Among them, the control device 30 can be set as a touch screen. It can also be set as a button.

[0040] The feedback handle is electrically connected to the electronic control device 20 , and a feedback button is provided on the feedback handle. During the test, the user can provide test feedback through the feedback button on the feedback handle.

[0041] The TFT display screen 40 is mounted on the surface of the housing 10 and is electrically connected to the electronic control device 20. The TFT display screen 40 is used to display the test results. Specifically, the TFT display screen 40 can clearly display the test results in the form of graphics and text, which is convenient for users to quickly understand the test data. Moreover, the display screen communicates with the electronic control device 20 in real time and can instantly reflect the changes and final results during the test. In addition to displaying the test results, the TFT display screen 40 can also be used to set test parameters, view the device status, etc., to improve the overall functionality of the device. In addition, the TFT display screen 40 can also cooperate with the electronic control device 20 to record test data for subsequent analysis and archiving.

[0042] The air conduction audio output circuit is arranged in the housing 10, and the air conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected to the electronic control device 20. The air conduction audio transmission circuit is used to generate an air conduction audio signal and output it through the air conduction earphone. It is used to perform an air conduction test on the user. Among them, the air conduction test is to evaluate the hearing of the user by conducting sound through air.

[0043] The bone conduction audio output circuit is arranged in the housing 10, and the bone conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected to the electronic control device 20. The bone conduction audio output circuit is used to generate a bone conduction audio signal and output it through the bone conduction earphone. It is used to perform a bone conduction test on the user. Among them, the bone conduction test directly stimulates the inner ear by vibrating the skull, thereby achieving hearing assessment.

[0044] The air conduction earphone is connected to the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit and is used to transmit the air conduction audio signal to the ear of the user.

[0045] The bone conduction earphone is connected to the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit, and is used to transmit the bone conduction audio signal to the user's skull through vibration.

[0046] Optionally, the electronic control device 20 also includes a sound intensity adjustment module, a warbling sound module and a pulse sound module, and the sound intensity adjustment module, the warbling sound module and the pulse sound module are all electrically connected to the circuit component, and the control device 30 includes a sound intensity adjustment button, a warbling sound button and a pulse sound button, the sound intensity adjustment button is connected to the sound intensity adjustment module, the warbling sound button is connected to the warbling sound module, the pulse sound button is connected to the pulse sound module, and the sound intensity adjustment button, the warbling sound button and the pulse sound button are all exposed on the surface of the shell 10.

[0047] Specifically, the intensity adjustment module is used to accurately adjust the intensity (volume) of the audio signal to ensure that the output sound intensity meets the test requirements. It can dynamically adjust the volume of the audio signal according to user settings or test program requirements. During the test, the intensity adjustment module can accurately control the volume of the test sound to ensure the accuracy of the test.

[0048] The warbling module is used to generate an audio signal (warbling) with a continuously changing frequency. This signal can simulate the sound of frequency changes in nature and is used to evaluate the user's sensitivity to sounds of different frequencies. In the test, the warbling module can be used to evaluate the user's ability to perceive frequency changes and is suitable for scenarios that require testing frequency resolution.

[0049] The pulse sound module is used to generate short pulse audio signals. This signal can simulate sudden sounds and is used to evaluate the user's ability to respond to instantaneous sounds. In the test, the pulse sound module can be used to evaluate the user's ability to perceive instantaneous sounds. It can be used in scenarios where it is necessary to test instantaneous hearing responses.

[0050] In this way, by setting up the sound intensity modulation module, warbling tone module and pulse tone module, the pure tone audiometer can meet diverse testing needs.

[0051] Specifically, in actual use, when an air conduction test is required for a subject, the pure tone audiometer can be set to the air conduction test mode through the control device 30, and the air conduction earphones can be plugged into the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit, and then the earphones are worn to perform the air conduction test.

[0052] When an air conduction test is required for the subject, the pure tone audiometer can be set to the bone conduction test mode through the control device 30, and the bone conduction earphone can be plugged into the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit, and then the earphone can be worn to perform the bone conduction test.

[0053] The following is a detailed description of the air conduction test process of the pure tone audiometer:

[0054] When it is necessary to conduct an air conduction test on the subject, the subject is required to take off glasses and earrings to avoid interference with the wearing of the air conduction headphones. Then put on the headphones, adjust the earmuffs so that the headphone speakers are directly aimed at the external auditory canal, and adjust the length of the headband to make the air conduction headphones fit firmly to avoid loose contact between the earmuffs and the ears, which will lead to errors in the low-frequency test results.

[0055] Before the test begins, the subjects are introduced to the test pure tones and the patient feedback handle buttons to respond to: "You will hear different tones of different intensities in the headphones. When you hear the tones, press the patient feedback handle button, and when you do not hear the tones, release the patient feedback handle button."

[0056] The subjects are then tested at different frequencies, such as 1000Hz, 1500Hz, 2000Hz, 3000Hz, 4000Hz, 6000Hz, 8000Hz, 125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, 750Hz, and 1000Hz. The better ear or healthy ear is usually tested first. If the difference between the two 1000Hz thresholds is greater than 10dB, the test should be repeated. If the difference between the thresholds of the two octave frequencies is ≥20dB, the half-octave frequency threshold should be determined. The sound-on time lasts for 2-3 seconds, and the interval time should not be shorter than the sound-on time, because the complete recovery time after adaptation is usually 2-3 seconds, and the sound-on time and interval time should be irregular.

[0057] The air conduction test method is further described below:

[0058] Specifically, the ascending method is used to determine the hearing threshold. A pure tone 10 dB lower than the threshold obtained during the familiarization process is given. If the subject does not respond, the threshold is increased in 5 dB steps until the subject responds.

[0059] Reduce the stimulus level by 10 dB and continue to increase the intensity in 5 dB steps until a response is made in at least 3 out of 5 sounds presented at the same intensity, which is the hearing threshold.

[0060] If there are 2 responses to 3 sounds of the same intensity, it can be considered that the hearing threshold has been obtained, which is almost completely consistent with the test results using the above judgment criteria. If the response is less than 2 / 3 or 3 / 5, increase the intensity of the last response by 10dB and repeat the above test steps.

[0061] Go to the next test frequency, reduce the test sound level by 10dB and test again according to the ascending method steps until there is at least 3 responses out of 5 times of the same intensity.

[0062] Repeat the 1000Hz test. If the difference is 5dB or less, start testing the other ear. If the difference is 10dB or more, repeat the test at each frequency in the same order until the difference at a certain frequency is 5dB or less.

[0063] Complete the test of both ears according to the above test steps. The entire test time should not exceed 20 minutes, otherwise the subject may become tired and it will be difficult to obtain reliable results. If the difference between the re-tested 1000Hz result and the initial test result is less than 5dB, the other ear can be tested, otherwise the test should be repeated.

[0064] The following is a detailed description of the bone conduction test process of the pure tone audiometer:

[0065] The pure tone audiometer is switched to the bone conduction test mode by the control device 30, and the bone conduction earphone is placed on the upper part of the mastoid process, which is equivalent to the tympanic sinus area. It is worth noting that the bone conduction earphone should not have hair, and should be as close to the auricle as possible but not touching the auricle, so as not to vibrate the auricle and transmit the sound to the external auditory canal. The non-test ear is worn with an air conduction earphone, and the air conduction earphone on the test ear side is placed in the forehead and temporal region to avoid the ear blocking effect. The bone conduction test is performed with the same steps as the above air conduction test.

[0066] It is worth noting that the interaural attenuation of bone conduction testing is only 0-10dB, so in bone conduction audiometry, the cochlea on both sides can perceive sounds of almost the same loudness.

[0067] The technical solution of the present invention is as follows: the electric control device 20 is arranged in the housing 10, the control device 30 is arranged in the housing 10 and connected to the electric control device 20, and the control device 30 is exposed on the surface of the housing 10; the air conduction audio output circuit is arranged in the housing 10, and the air conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected to the electric control device 20; the bone conduction audio output circuit is arranged in the housing 10, and the bone conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected to the electric control device 20; the air conduction earphone is connected to the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit; the bone conduction earphone is connected to the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit. In this way, when it is necessary to perform an air conduction test on the subject, the pure tone audiometer can be set to the air conduction test mode through the control device 30, and the air conduction earphone is plugged into the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit, and then the air conduction earphone is worn to perform the air conduction test. When it is necessary to perform a bone conduction test on the subject, the pure tone audiometer can be set to the bone conduction test mode through the control device 30, and the bone conduction earphone is plugged into the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit, and then the bone conduction earphone is worn to perform the bone conduction test. In this way, audio output circuits are set separately for air conduction test and bone conduction test. During the test, the corresponding audio output circuit can be selected to perform corresponding tests on the subjects, avoiding crosstalk caused by using the same audio output circuit for air conduction test and bone conduction test, thereby improving the accuracy of the hearing test of the subjects.

[0068] In some embodiments, the pure tone audiometer further includes a voltage-controlled amplifier, which is electrically connected to the electronic control device 20. Specifically, the pressure block amplifier is used to accurately amplify and control the audio signal to ensure that the output audio signal strength (volume) can be accurately adjusted according to the test requirements. In air conduction tests and bone conduction tests, the voltage-controlled amplifier can amplify the signals of the air conduction audio output circuit and the bone conduction audio output circuit, respectively, to ensure that the output audio signal strength meets the test standards. In this way, more precise volume control can be achieved through the voltage-controlled amplifier, which is conducive to further improving the test accuracy. In addition, in other embodiments, the pure tone audiometer is not provided with a voltage-controlled amplifier.

[0069] In some embodiments, the pure tone audiometer further includes a plurality of voltage-controlled amplifiers, and the plurality of voltage-controlled amplifiers are connected in cascade. Specifically, the number of the voltage-controlled amplifiers is at least two, and the output of the previous amplifier is used as the input of the next amplifier. Through multi-stage amplification, more precise signal control can be achieved, avoiding distortion or noise problems that may be caused by single-stage amplification. Moreover, each stage of the amplifier can be adjusted independently, thereby achieving step-by-step optimization of the audio signal. In addition, the cascade design can also disperse the amplification tasks, reduce the burden of the single-stage voltage-controlled amplifier, and help improve the stability of the overall system. Exemplarily, the number of voltage-controlled amplifiers is but not limited to: two, three, four, etc. In addition, in other embodiments, the pure tone audiometer is provided with only one voltage-controlled amplifier.

[0070] In some embodiments, the pure tone audiometer further includes an expansion module, which is electrically connected to the electronic control device 20. The control device 30 includes an expansion button, which is connected to the expansion module and exposed on the surface of the shell 10. The expansion module is used to increase the decibel range extension of some frequencies, and the expansion button is used to at least control the switch of the expansion module.

[0071] Specifically, by pressing the expansion button, a range extension of up to 30 dB can be obtained for some frequencies. When a higher volume needs to be tested, the expansion module can provide necessary decibel range support to meet the test needs of different testers. In other words, the decibel range can be flexibly adjusted according to the test requirements, supporting a wider range of test scenarios, and improving the functionality of the pure tone audiometer. In addition, in other embodiments, the electronic control device 20 is not provided with an expansion module.

[0072] In some embodiments, the electronic control device 20 also includes a masking module, which is electrically connected to the circuit assembly. The control device 30 also includes a masking button, which is connected to the masking module and exposed to the surface of the shell 10. The masking module is used to limit the upper decibel limit, and the masking button is at least used to control the switch of the masking module.

[0073] Specifically, for the safety of the test subject, the pure tone audiometer sets an upper limit of the hearing level. Through the masking module and the masking button, the pure tone audiometer can limit the upper limit of the decibel level during the test to protect the user's hearing safety. The addition of the masking module enhances the functionality of the device, enabling it to support a safer test environment, especially for users who are sensitive to volume or special test scenarios. For example, in children's hearing tests, the masking module can prevent the volume from being too high to protect children's hearing; in elderly hearing tests, the masking module can prevent the volume from suddenly increasing to avoid discomfort to the elderly, that is, the functionality of the pure tone audiometer is improved. In addition, in other embodiments, the electronic control device 20 is not provided with a masking module.

[0074] The following is a detailed description of the test process after the masking mode is turned on:

[0075] The masking button is used to turn on the masking so that the pure tone audiometer enters the masking mode. The purpose of masking is to give an acoustic signal (noise) to the non-test ear to prevent the non-test ear from responding to the test sound. In bone conduction audiometry, masking is usually provided to the contralateral ear, and the masking earphone is always placed on the non-test ear.

[0076] It is recommended to give the subjects simple instructions, such as: "You will hear noise in one earphone, but just pay attention to whether you hear the pure tone and respond only to the pure tone", and calibrate the masking noise with the effective sound masking on the same side: when the pure tone and masking sound are output in the same ear, the intensity of the masking sound should just be enough to mask the pure tone.

[0077] When the sound masking and pure tone are output to different ears respectively, the interaural attenuation will reduce the pure tone (AC is 50dB for ordinary headphones and BC is 0-10dB). The actual pure tone attenuation from the test ear to the masking ear will depend on the actual test type and test frequency.

[0078] Among them, masking is divided into minimum masking level and maximum masking level. Specifically, the minimum masking level is the minimum masking noise intensity required to mask the sound "eavesdropped" by the non-test ear:

[0079] In air conduction audiometry mode: when the masked ear has no bone air conduction difference: the pure tone intensity of air conduction is subtracted by 50dB (AC dB-50dB). When the masked ear has a bone air conduction difference: the pure tone intensity of air conduction is subtracted by 50dB, plus the bone air conduction difference of the masked ear (AC dB-50dB+BC dB).

[0080] In bone conduction test mode: when the masked ear has no middle ear loss (bone-air conduction difference), the pure tone intensity of the bone conduction is reduced by 0 to 5 dB (AC dB–0 to 5 dB).

[0081] When there is a bone-air conduction difference in the masked ear, since the sound is transmitted through air conduction, the sound masking intensity needs to be added with the bone-air conduction difference. This part of the difference will be attenuated due to the middle ear loss of the masked ear.

[0082] If the bone conduction pure tone is set to 50dB, in the absence of middle ear loss, the minimum masking intensity of the masked ear will be 50dB-(0~5dB)=45~50dB.

[0083] If the bone-air conduction of the masked ear is 20dB, the minimum masking intensity is: 50dB-(0~5dB)+20dB=65~70dB.

[0084] The maximum masking level is the maximum masking noise intensity that does not change the threshold of the test ear. The tester must note that when testing the ear with a large bone-air conduction difference, the effective masking platform is very narrow, so try to avoid under-masking or over-masking. Air conduction audiometry: pure tone intensity +50dB; bone-air audiometry: pure tone intensity +50dB.

[0085] Using insert earphones instead of TDH39 earphones can achieve better masking effect. Install the insert earphones with earplugs of appropriate size and insert them into the ear canal of the masked ear. The masking steps are the same. Since the external auditory canal of the test ear is open during bone conduction testing, the test needs to be performed in a soundproof room without background noise.

[0086] If the normal TDH39 earphones provide masking during the bone conduction test, the earphone on the test ear can be moved slightly forward to open the external auditory canal. This can avoid the ear blocking effect at low frequencies, especially in the range of 250Hz-750Hz.

[0087] Detailed instructions for masking:

[0088] It is worth noting that: whether it is air conduction audiometry or bone conduction audiometry, the hearing threshold of the left and right ears are tested separately. Therefore, when the masking condition is met, the masking noise should be output to the ear not being tested (the contralateral ear).

[0089] Step 1: Without masking, test the air conduction thresholds of both ears, and then measure the bone conduction threshold of the ear with better hearing.

[0090] Step 2: Inform the subject that sound masking will be used. Tell him that he will hear some noise, but try to ignore it and respond to the pure tone test signal as before.

[0091] In the air conduction test, headphones are worn on both ears. Masking noise is output by one headphone, while pure tone test signal is output by the other headphone. In the bone conduction test, noise is output by the headphone worn on the non-test ear, and the other headphone is placed in front of the test ear so as not to cover the test ear. The bone conduction vibrator is placed at the mastoid of the test ear.

[0092] Step 3: Select pure tone as input and air conduction left ear, air conduction right ear or bone conduction left and right ear as output. Turn on the masking key and turn the right knob corresponding to the test ear to select the masking intensity.

[0093] Step 4: Turn the knob to increase the masking noise intensity by 10 dB (stay at each intensity for about 2 seconds). Ask the subject to indicate when he can hear the noise. (Noise can only be used as an effective masking sound when it can be heard. During this process, the tester does not need to determine the calibration reference value and minimum masking level of the masking.) When the subject indicates that he hears the noise, the test begins.

[0094] Step 5: Starting from the starting intensity, change the intensity of the test pure tone and masking noise in turn. (The starting intensity of the test sound is the hearing threshold of the test ear without masking, and the starting intensity of the masking sound is the intensity when the subject can just hear the noise in the previous step).

[0095] Step 6: Output the test pure tone. If the subject responds via the patient feedback handle, increase the masking noise by 10 dB and output the test pure tone again. Then follow the following method to perform the test:

[0096] Step 7: When the subject can hear the test pure tone, increase the masking sound by 10 dB. When the subject cannot hear the test tone, increase the pure tone by 5 dB until the subject can hear the pure tone again.

[0097] Step 8: Repeat this step until the following occurs: the hearing threshold of the pure tone remains unchanged after continuously increasing the masking noise intensity.

[0098] Another option is to continue increasing the masking intensity until overmasking occurs. Overmasking is easily recognized because, at this intensity, every 10 dB increase in noise will result in a 10 dB increase in hearing thresholds. Care must be taken when testing with air conduction because overmasking may not occur, especially when the unmasked hearing threshold is the actual hearing threshold, which may not change over a wide range of noise intensities. Overmasking is more likely to occur with bone conduction testing. Once the masked hearing threshold is determined, reduce the noise to below the subject's hearing threshold. Label the masked hearing threshold with the appropriate symbol. Do not record masked and unmasked test results with the same symbol. Also, once the masked hearing threshold is obtained, indicate the type of masking noise used and the intensity of the noise.

[0099] In some embodiments, the electronic control device 20 also includes a frequency adjustment module, which is electrically connected to the circuit assembly. The control device 30 also includes an adjustment knob, which is at least partially exposed on the surface of the shell 10 and is transmission-connected to the frequency adjustment module.

[0100] Specifically, the adjustment knob is used to manually adjust the output frequency of the frequency adjustment module. That is to say, the desired frequency value can be selected by rotating the adjustment knob. The adjustment knob is connected to the frequency adjustment module in a transmission manner. When the adjustment knob is rotated, the frequency adjustment module adjusts the output frequency according to the position of the knob. In scenarios where a specific frequency range needs to be tested, the frequency adjustment module can accurately adjust the output frequency to meet the test requirements, which is conducive to improving the functionality of the pure tone audiometer. Among them, the surface of the adjustment knob is provided with a scale mark or a digital indication, which is convenient for accurate selection of the frequency value.

[0101] In some embodiments, the shell 10 includes an upper shell 11 and a lower shell 12 , and an installation cavity 13 is formed between the upper shell 11 and the lower shell 12 . The control device 30 and the electronic control device 20 are both installed in the installation cavity 13 , and the control device 30 is exposed from the surface of the shell 10 .

[0102] Specifically, the split design of the upper shell 11 and the lower shell 12 allows the control device 30 and the electronic control device 20 to be installed on the inner wall of the upper shell 11 before the upper shell 11 and the lower shell 12 are combined. This arrangement makes the assembly and maintenance of the pure tone audiometer more convenient. Optionally, a sealing ring is provided between the upper shell 11 and the lower shell 12 to improve the sealing of the pure tone audiometer.

[0103] In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the housing 10 is provided with an anti-skid pad 50. Specifically, the anti-skid pad 50 is used to increase the friction with the desktop to improve the placement stability of the pure tone audiometer. The anti-skid pad 50 is made of a material with a high friction coefficient, such as rubber, silicone or other soft anti-skid materials.

[0104] Specifically, there are many ways to set the anti-skid pad 50. In one embodiment, the protective pad is arranged on the periphery of the bottom surface of the housing 10 and is in a ring shape extending along the circumference of the housing 10. In this embodiment, a plurality of anti-skid pads 50 are arranged on the bottom surface of the housing 10, and the plurality of anti-skid pads 50 are arranged at the four corners of the housing 10. In addition, in other embodiments, the bottom surface of the housing 10 is not provided with an anti-skid pad 50.

[0105] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. All equivalent structural changes made by using the contents of the present invention specification and drawings under the inventive concept of the present invention, or directly / indirectly applied in other related technical fields are included in the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A pure tone audiometer, characterized in that: include: case; An electric control device is arranged in the housing. A control device, disposed in the housing and connected to the electric control device, and the control device is exposed on the surface of the housing; A feedback handle, electrically connected to the electronic control device, and provided with a feedback button; A TFT display screen is mounted on the surface of the housing and is electrically connected to the electronic control device. The TFT display screen is used to display the test results; An air conduction audio output circuit is disposed in the housing, and the air conduction audio output circuit is electrically connected to the electronic control device; A bone conduction audio output circuit is disposed in the housing and is electrically connected to the electronic control device; an air conduction earphone connected to the output end of the air conduction audio output circuit; and The bone conduction earphone is connected to the output end of the bone conduction audio output circuit.

2. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pure tone audiometer further comprises a voltage-controlled amplifier, and the voltage-controlled amplifier is electrically connected to the electronic control device.

3. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 2, characterized in that: The pure tone audiometer further comprises a plurality of voltage-controlled amplifiers, and the plurality of voltage-controlled amplifiers are connected in a cascade manner.

4. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 3, characterized in that: The electronic control device includes an expansion module and a circuit component, the expansion module is electrically connected to the circuit component, the control device includes an expansion button, the expansion button is connected to the expansion module and exposed to the surface of the shell, the expansion module is used to increase the decibel range of some frequencies, and the expansion button is used to at least control the switch of the expansion module.

5. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The electronic control device also includes a masking module, which is electrically connected to the circuit assembly. The control device also includes a masking button, which is connected to the masking module and exposed to the surface of the shell. The masking module is used to limit the upper decibel limit, and the masking button is at least used to control the switch of the masking module.

6. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 5, characterized in that: The electronic control device also includes a sound intensity adjustment module, a warbling module and a pulse sound module, and the sound intensity adjustment module, the warbling module and the pulse sound module are all electrically connected to the circuit component. The control device also includes a sound intensity adjustment button, a warbling button and a pulse sound button, and the sound intensity adjustment button, the warbling button and the pulse sound button are respectively connected to the sound intensity adjustment module, the warbling module and the pulse sound module, and exposed to the surface of the shell.

7. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 6, characterized in that: The pure tone audiometer further comprises a frequency adjustment module, which is electrically connected to the electric control device. The control device further comprises an adjustment knob, which is at least partially exposed on the surface of the housing and is drivingly connected to the frequency adjustment module.

8. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 7, characterized in that: A scale mark or a digital indication is provided on the surface of the housing near the adjusting knob.

9. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 1, wherein: The shell comprises an upper shell and a lower shell, an installation cavity is formed between the upper shell and the lower shell, the control device and the electric control device are both installed in the installation cavity, and the control device is exposed from the surface of the shell.

10. The pure tone audiometer according to claim 1, wherein: An anti-slip pad is provided on the surface of the shell.

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