Device and method for the ultrasonic cleaning of a hearing aid

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for maintaining at least one earmold (31), of a hearing aid or of an in-ear earpiece, the device comprising a base provided with a washing receptacle (3) designed to accommodate an earmold (31), and further comprising liquid injection means (40), the device further comprising: an ultrasonic transducer (5) configured to generate ultrasonic waves in the washing receptacle (3), in order to produce a cavitation effect. The invention further relates to a method for the ultrasonic cleaning of a hearing aid or of an in-ear earpiece.

Description

Description Title of the invention: Device and method for ultrasonic cleaning of a hearing aid

[0001] The present invention falls within the technical field of eartip maintenance of an in-ear earphone or a hearing aid, including in particular its dehumidification, disinfection and rinsing. The invention applies to both in-ear earphones and hearing aids with or without an ear hook connected to an eartip.

[0002] The present invention relates more specifically to an improved maintenance device capable of implementing ultrasonic cleaning of an earpiece by cavitation within a volume of liquid. The present invention further relates to a method of maintaining such in-ear earphones. State of the art

[0003] Whether it is an in-ear earphone or a hearing aid, both have an earpiece that is positioned inside the ear to, via a transmitter, retransmit as close as possible a sound picked up, depending on the case, by a microphone or a receiver located outside the ear.

[0004] Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4 illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, the main families of in-ear headphones and hearing aids known.

[0005] In particular, Figures 1 and 2 each represent a hearing aid comprising an ear contour A receiving the microphone B and connected by means of a transmission tube C to the earpiece D. The solution illustrated in [Fig.l] is distinguished in that the sound transmitter E is also arranged on the ear contour, while in the solution of [Fig.2], this sound transmitter E is implanted in the immediate vicinity of the earpiece D.

[0006] [Fig. 3] relates to an in-ear hearing aid, not including a behind-the-ear device. In short, this aid comprises a distal part defined by the earpiece D and housing the sound transmitter E and a proximal part, oriented towards the outside of the ear when the aid is worn by a user. In this proximal part is housed the microphone B in particular.

[0007] [Fig.4] illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an in-ear earphone which, as previously, comprises a distal part comprising the earpiece D and housing the sound transmitter E and a proximal part, external to the ear, receiving, not a microphone, but a means of receiving sound waves emitted by any transmitter, for example a smartphone or other.

[0008] Regardless of the type of device considered, an accumulation of humidity, in particular at the earpiece, can cause degradation and premature oxidation of the electronic components embedded in the prosthesis or the earphone. In addition, accumulated debris can make wearing the prosthesis or earphone unpleasant and cause health and hygiene problems. Finally, this debris can impair the performance of these devices.

[0009] It is therefore advisable to dehumidify and disinfect these earmolds very regularly to extend their lifespan and increase their comfort of use. Maintenance includes removing dried and stuck earwax debris from the surfaces of an earmold and any wet debris.

[0010] Self-contained cleaning devices, particularly for hearing aids, are known, which simultaneously perform the functions of cleaning, rinsing and drying the aid. Cleaning is typically carried out using a cleaning solution. As regards drying, this can be carried out using drying means such as an air passage and / or a turbine within a drying chamber in which the earpiece is positioned.

[0011] In certain state-of-the-art maintenance devices, cleaning of the ear tip with a liquid solution is supplemented by disinfection using electromagnetic radiation, typically using UV-C rays emitted by a lamp embedded in the device.

[0012] For example, international patent application WO 2017 / 137695 filed in the name of the Applicant, entitled “Device for cleaning a hearing aid”, describes a device in the form of a housing within which the cleaning of the earpiece is carried out by touching liquid. The precise guidance of the liquid flow makes it possible to obtain a “vortex effect” within the cavity receiving the earpiece. The cleaning cavity is delimited laterally by an internal skin which is surrounded by an external skin comprising means for tangential injection of liquid. Such a configuration is conducive to obtaining a vortex of liquid within the cleaning cavity, allowing the cleaning of the surfaces of the earpiece by touching liquid. An electrical recharging unit can be integrated into the housing of the device, which further enhances its functionality.

[0013] An advantage of the technical solution described in the aforementioned patent application is that it provides a maintenance device with a universal cleaning cavity, into which all types of hearing aid eartips or in-ear earphones can be inserted. In addition, the maintenance device is very easy to use since simply inserting the eartips into the cleaning cavities, followed by closing the lid, is enough to initiate a maintenance cycle.

[0014] However, with this technical solution, it is necessary to protect the proximal part of the ear tip, that is to say the one located at the front of the ear canal, compared to the distal part which is intended to engage in the ear canal of a user. Indeed, this proximal part may contain electronic components sensitive to liquid splashes and it is advisable to avoid it receiving droplets of liquid during a cleaning cycle.

[0015] Additionally, under normal use, a complete maintenance cycle takes approximately one hour to clean, rinse, drain, and dry, or even UV-C disinfect the hearing aid. While this cleaning time is already moderate, it is desirable to further reduce the total duration of a maintenance cycle.

[0016] The Applicant therefore sought a technical solution enabling a very short maintenance cycle time to be achieved, taking into account the latest technological developments in hearing aids and the new possibilities offered by the most recent disinfection technologies. General description of the invention

[0017] In view of the above, there is a need for a self-contained device for maintaining and cleaning the earpiece of a hearing aid or in-ear earphone, which device is more efficient, faster and more reliable compared to existing technical solutions.

[0018] In particular, the desired maintenance device must allow the complete completion of an earpiece maintenance cycle in a very limited time, for example in less than twenty minutes. The cleaning efficiency of an in-ear earphone must remain optimal, regardless of the humidity of the materials and debris to be removed from the prosthesis.

[0019] It is also important that the components of hearing aids or in-ear headphones are not damaged in any way during a maintenance cycle. In particular, the technologies used for cleaning and disinfecting the surfaces of hearing aids must not alter the materials of the earmolds.

[0020] The desired maintenance device must also ensure a pleasant user experience, in particular by ensuring that the maintenance cycle is carried out as autonomously as possible, with very limited user intervention. Preferably, the desired maintenance device is easily transportable.

[0021] Furthermore, there is a need for an ear tip maintenance device that meets the technical objectives mentioned above, while remaining compatible with large-scale industrialization and marketing through moderate cost, simple mechanical and electronic design, and ease of manufacture and use.

[0022] The Applicant has therefore developed and produced a new type of device for maintaining at least one hearing aid earpiece or an in-ear earphone, incorporating an ultrasonic cleaning function. As will be described in more detail below, the maintenance device incorporates at least one ultrasonic transducer (typically a piezoelectric crystal). The mechanical vibrations of the transducer generate a cavitation phenomenon within the cleaning solution in which the in-ear earphone(s) are immersed. The bubbles produced by cavitation are capable of removing very small debris from the surface of the earphone(s).

[0023] The Applicant has found that the integration of such ultrasonic cleaning technology into a maintenance device makes it possible to obtain optimal cleaning of the eartips in a very short time, without damaging these eartips, while remaining compatible with the large-scale industrialization of the maintenance device.

[0024] Thus, a first aspect of the present invention relates to a maintenance device for at least one earpiece of an in-ear earphone or a hearing aid, the maintenance device comprising a base comprising a washing receptacle defining at least one cavity intended to receive the earpiece, and further comprising means for injecting liquid into the cavity, the maintenance device further comprising: * at least one ultrasonic transducer configured to generate ultrasonic waves at the washing receptacle, so as to generate a cavitation phenomenon within a volume of liquid received inside the cavity,

[0025] According to the invention, the maintenance device further comprises a clean cleaning solution reservoir and a used cleaning solution reservoir, separate from the cavity defined by the washing receptacle, as well as cleaning solution circulation means, making it possible to bring a clean cleaning solution from the clean cleaning solution reservoir to the liquid injection means, said circulation means further allowing the drainage of a used cleaning solution to the used cleaning solution reservoir from the washing receptacle.

[0026] Optional and non-limiting features of the hearing aid maintenance and cleaning device according to the first aspect of the invention are the following, taken alone or in any of the technically feasible combinations:

[0027] - wherein the cleaning solution circulation means comprise at least fluid redirection means comprising at least one pinch or three-way type valve.

[0028] - the fluid redirection means are connectable to the solution tank of clean cleaning.

[0029] - said fluid redirection means further comprise at least one second additional pinch or three-way type valve connectable to the used cleaning solution tank.

[0030] - the cleaning solution circulation means further comprise a pump, of the diaphragm, peristaltic or other type.

[0031] - the fluid redirection means comprise at least one port connected to a fluid inlet of the pump and at least one other port connected to a fluid outlet of the pump.

[0032] - the at least one ultrasonic transducer is configured to generate, in operation, ultrasonic waves corresponding to a plurality of distinct frequencies.

[0033] - the at least one ultrasonic transducer is capable of generating, in operation, ultrasonic waves at a frequency between 80 Kilohertz and 150 Kilohertz.

[0034] - the at least one ultrasonic transducer comprises at least one piezoelectric crystal.

[0035] - the washing receptacle comprises a bottom wall delimiting a bottom of the cavity.

[0036] - the ultrasonic transducer is placed against said bottom wall.

[0037] - the washing receptacle comprises a side wall, the liquid injection means defining at least one tangential liquid inlet orifice configured to spray a liquid tangentially to said side wall.

[0038] - the device comprises means for generating air flow towards the washing receptacle, preferably means for generating a pulsed air flow.

[0039] - the device comprises means for heating said air flow.

[0040] - the device includes means for emitting ultraviolet disinfection radiation.

[0041] - the means for emitting ultraviolet radiation comprise at least one UV-C LED.

[0042] - the base may integrate a filter placed on the fluid path defined by the cleaning solution circulation means.

[0043] - the clean cleaning solution tank and / or the used cleaning solution tank are integrated into a removable cartridge that can be connected and disconnected from the base.

[0044] - the washing receptacle defines two cavities, of substantially identical conformation, each designed to receive a respective hearing aid tip.

[0045] Furthermore, a second aspect of the invention relates to a method for maintaining a hearing aid or an in-ear earphone comprising an earpiece to be cleaned, this method comprising steps:

[0046] - filling a cleaning cavity in a washing receptacle with a clean cleaning solution, with the ear tip positioned in the cleaning cavity,

[0047] - activation of an ultrasonic transducer at the washing receptacle, so as to generate ultrasonic waves and cause a cavitation phenomenon within the clean cleaning solution inside the cavity, so that ultrasonic cleaning of the ear tip is carried out,

[0048] This maintenance method being capable of being implemented by a maintenance device as defined above according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0049] Optional and non-limiting features of the maintenance method according to the second aspect of the invention are the following, taken alone or in any of the technically possible combinations:

[0050] - a step of rinsing the ear tip inside the cavity, using the cleaning solution,

[0051] - the rinsing step and / or the ultrasonic transducer activation step comprises the generation of a swirling liquid flow, known as a vortex effect, around the ear tip positioned in the cleaning cavity.

[0052] - the maintenance device comprises a pump, of the membrane, peristaltic or other type, which includes means for circulating the clean cleaning solution, and the pump being deactivated or not during the step of activating the ultrasonic transducer and / or during the step of ultrasonic cleaning.

[0053] - the clean cleaning solution used includes a disinfectant agent, so as to implement additional cleaning of the ear tip by disinfection when the ear tip is positioned in the cleaning cavity.

[0054] - the method comprises an additional step of drying the ear tip using a flow of hot air directed towards the washing receptacle, preferably using a pulsed flow of hot air.

[0055] - the method comprises an additional step of disinfecting at least part of the earpiece of the hearing aid or the in-ear earphone using a beam of ultraviolet radiation, said beam preferably being generated by at least one UV-C LED.

[0056] - the ultrasonic cleaning step comprises multi-frequency activation of the ultrasonic transducer, so as to generate ultrasonic waves according to a plurality of distinct frequencies at the washing receptacle. General description of the figures

[0057] Other aims and advantages of the invention will emerge from reading the detailed description below, this description being supplemented by the appended figures given for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, among which:

[0058] Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4 [Fig.l][Fig.2][Fig.3][Fig.4] illustrate, in a non-limiting manner, mitative, the large families of in-ear headphones and hearing aids known.

[0059] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a perspective representation of a housing incorporating a hearing aid cleaning and recharging device, in one possible form, with the cover of said housing in the raised position.

[0060] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] schematically represents different components and a hydraulic diagram of an ear tip cleaning device, according to a first exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0061] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] illustrates a step of filling the eartip receptacle with cleaning solution, for the cleaning device shown in [Fig.6].

[0062] [Fig.8][Fig.8] illustrates an ultrasonic cleaning step of the earphone, for this same prosthesis cleaning device shown in [Fig.6],

[0063] [Fig.9][Fig.9] illustrates a step of rinsing an ear tip and removing debris, for the same cleaning device shown in [Fig.6]

[0064] [Fig.10] [Fig.10] illustrates a step of emptying a volume of used cleaning solution, for the same cleaning device shown in [Fig.6].

[0065] [Fig.11] [Fig.11] shows a perspective view from below and above of a specific form of cleaning receptacle for an ear tip, where the receptacle is shown in isolation from the base of the cleaning device.

[0066] [Fig.12] [Fig.12] schematically represents different components and a hydraulic diagram of a cleaning device, according to a second exemplary embodiment of the invention characterized by the presence of a removable cartridge.

[0067] Detailed description of different embodiments of the invention

[0068] The following description, accompanied by the appended figures, concerns an example of a portable hearing aid or in-ear earphone maintenance device incorporating the following main functions: ultrasonic cleaning, rinsing by touching liquid by “vortex effect”, drying by forced hot air flow, disinfection using UV-C rays, and optionally electrical recharging of the hearing aids.

[0069] It will be understood that the invention also applies, with the same advantages, to other variants of maintenance devices which would implement some or all of these functionalities.

[0070] General architecture of the in-ear hearing aid maintenance device

[0071] [Fig. 5] illustrates a hearing aid or in-ear earphone maintenance device 1, seen from above. The device 1 is preferably portable.

[0072] The maintenance device 1 comprises in particular a base 2 allowing it to rest on a surface. The base 2 comprises an earpiece cleaning receptacle 3 intended to receive at least partially an earpiece of a hearing aid or an in-ear earphone to be cleaned. For example, the receptacle 3 is provided so that an earpiece 31 is inserted therein in a stable manner. The base 2 here has the general shape of a parallelepiped housing.

[0073] Here, the base 2 has a substantially flat upper surface 28. The cleaning receptacle 3 is preferably placed in a recess in the upper surface 28.

[0074] In the present example, the base 2 is surmounted by a cover 29 which is movable between a raised position as illustrated in the attached [Fig.5], and a lowered position in which the upper surface 28 of the base 2 is covered by the cover 29.

[0075] The cover 29 is for example hinged to the base 2 by a hinge 290 allowing the cover 29 to move from the raised position to the lowered position and vice versa. The base 2 and the closable cover 29 together form a compact and easily transportable cleaning box.

[0076] As will be seen in detail below, in the present exemplary embodiment, the receptacle 3 for cleaning the ear tip 31 has a generally oblong shape. Simultaneous insertion of several ear tips 31 is thus possible.

[0077] Eartip Cleaning Receptacle - Ultrasonic Transducer

[0078] Importantly, the maintenance device 1 is designed to perform a complete ear tip cleaning cycle including in particular an ultrasonic cleaning step. The ear tip cleaning receptacle 31 is thus designed to allow partial immersion of a part of the hearing aid or the in-ear earphone, for example partial immersion of the ear tip 31, then cleaning of the surfaces of said part by cavitation.

[0079] The general operating principle of ultrasonic cleaning is based primarily on the use of the physical phenomenon of piezoelectricity. A so-called "piezoelectric" material has the ability to generate mechanical vibrations under the influence of an electrical voltage. Thus, at the level of the piezoelectric material, the electrical energy supplied is transformed into mechanical energy. Conversely, a change in pressure on a piezoelectric material can produce an electric current.

[0080] Vibrations generated at a given frequency, within the volume of liquid contained in the receptacle 3, are used to generate a cavitation phenomenon inside the liquid. We speak of "cavitation" to designate the generation of micro-bubbles of gas inside the volume of liquid.

[0081] Under the effect of mechanical vibrations in the liquid, the gas microbubbles compress and implode. The mechanical shocks created by the implosion of said microbubbles clean the earpiece 31, and in particular the removal of debris accumulated on the surfaces of the earpiece 31. It is thus possible to remove particles of various sizes accumulated on the earpiece 31, for example dust, earwax particles, etc.

[0082] With reference to the operating diagram of [Fig. 6], the device 1 here comprises at least one ultrasonic transducer 5 located in the vicinity of the ear tip cleaning receptacle 31. The ultrasonic transducer 5 is capable of generating ultrasonic mechanical vibrations. Under the effect of an electrical signal, preferably provided by an ultrasonic signal source 16 integrated into the device 1, the transducer 5 produces ultrasonic waves.

[0083] The transducer 5 is for example placed against a wall of the receptacle 3, on the side opposite the volume of cleaning liquid. Thus vibrations of the transducer 5 create vibrations inside the volume of cleaning liquid.

[0084] Here, the receptacle 3 comprises a bottom wall 33 delimiting the bottom of the cleaning cavity. The transducer 5 is then preferably placed against said bottom wall 33, on the lower side. Thus the ultrasonic vibrations of the transducer 5 are communicated via the bottom wall 33 to the volume of cleaning liquid contained in the receptacle 3.

[0085] It will be noted that the ultrasonic transducer 5 preferably comprises at least one piezoelectric crystal. The piezoelectric material used to form the transducer 5 comprises, for example, quartz and / or one or more piezoelectric ceramics.

[0086] Generally speaking, the higher the ultrasonic vibration frequency obtained at the transducer 5, the finer the gas microbubbles (for example air microbubbles) generated within the cleaning liquid. Advantageously, the transducer 5 is capable of generating ultrasonic waves at a frequency of between 60 kilohertz and 150 kilohertz, more preferably at a frequency of between 80 kilohertz and 150 kilohertz, for example at a frequency equal to 85 kilohertz.

[0087] Preferably, the ultrasonic transducer 5 is configured to generate, in operation, ultrasonic waves corresponding to a plurality of distinct frequencies. The transducer 5 is then capable of operating in multi-frequency mode. An advantage of operating in multi-frequency mode is to allow efficient detachment and removal of dried and / or wet debris of various sizes.

[0088] In the present example, the washing receptacle 3 further comprises at least one side wall 34 contiguous to the bottom wall 33, rising vertically from the edges of the bottom 33. The upper edges of the side wall(s) 34 are preferably left free. The cleaning cavity delimited laterally by the side wall(s) 34 is thus in communication with the outside when the cover 29 is in the raised position.

[0089] In order to automatically introduce the cleaning liquid into the receptacle 3 from a remote liquid source, the receptacle 3 advantageously comprises liquid injection means 40, in fluid communication with the cleaning cavity.

[0090] In the present example, the injection means 40 define at least one liquid inlet orifice. The liquid inlet orifice is preferably configured to spray a liquid tangentially to the side wall 34 of the receptacle 3. The injection means 40 are preferably in fluid communication with the remote liquid source. An example of a particular conformation of the receptacle 3 and the tangential injection means 40 will be described below, in relation to [Fig. 1 1],

[0091] It will be noted that the washing receptacle 3 also preferably comprises an intermediate reservoir 6 placed on the fluid path between the reservoirs 8 and 9 (described below) and means for circulating the cleaning solution. The intermediate reservoir 6 allows the temporary storage of a volume of liquid, for example the storage of an excess volume of cleaning solution. In the present example, the intermediate reservoir 6 is fixed relative to the receptacle 3 and is placed below the bottom wall 33.

[0092] Optionally, the receptacle 3 also includes an overfill exhaust 18, in fluid communication with the intermediate reservoir 6.

[0093] Circulating the cleaning solution

[0094] The maintenance device 1 incorporates automated management of the circulation of the cleaning fluid, in particular during the cleaning, rinsing and draining stages.

[0095] The maintenance device 1 incorporates a reservoir 8 of clean cleaning solution, configured to store an available volume of a cleaning solution 15, and a reservoir 9 of used cleaning solution 14, configured to store the used cleaning solution resulting from cleaning up to a certain volume. The reservoirs 8 and 9 are offset relative to the cleaning cavity which is defined inside the receptacle 3. In the example of [Fig. 6], the reservoirs 8 and 9 are fixed or removable relative to the base 2 of the device and are located inside this base.

[0096] The clean cleaning solution 15 contained in the reservoir 8 is preferably an aqueous solution. This cleaning solution may optionally comprise a disinfectant agent, so as to implement additional cleaning of the tip. ear 31 by disinfection.

[0097] The device 1 further comprises means for selectively circulating the cleaning fluid between the receptacle 3, the tank 8 of clean cleaning solution, and the tank 9 of used cleaning solution.

[0098] The circulation means include in particular a pump 7. This may be of the membrane, peristaltic or other type.

[0099] The pump 7 can thus be electronically controlled in voltage or speed, in order to obtain the desired liquid flow rates between a pump inlet 70 and a pump outlet 71, during the different stages of an earpiece maintenance cycle.

[0100] As a reminder, a diaphragm pump can be replaced by other types of volumetric or non-volumetric pumping means, such as a peristaltic pump whose volume and flow rate can be controlled by controlling the rotation speed.

[0101] Furthermore, the fluid circulation means allow the clean cleaning solution 15 to be supplied from the clean cleaning solution tank 8 to the receptacle 3 (via the means 40 for injecting liquid into the receptacle). These means also allow the used cleaning solution 14 to be drained from the receptacle 3 to the used cleaning solution tank 9 (via the means 60 for draining liquid from the receptacle).

[0102] To do this, in one possible implementation, the fluid circulation means comprise fluid redirection means defined, for example by at least one valve which can take different embodiments. Thus, this valve can be simple pinch or three-way type.

[0103] In this example, the fluid redirection means comprise a first three-way valve 10 selectively connected to the pump inlet 70 (via a port C of this valve 10), and comprise a second three-way valve 11 selectively connected to the pump outlet 71 (via a port C of this solenoid valve 11).

[0104] Here, the first valve 10 is configured to allow the passage of fluid either between the port 'C' connected to the pump 7 and the port '1' connected to the drainage means 60 (position C1), or between the port 'C' connected to the pump 7 and the port '2' connected to the reservoir 8 (position C2). Furthermore, the second valve 11 is configured to allow the passage of fluid either between the port 'C' connected to the pump 7 and the port '1' connected to the injection means 40 (position C1), or between the port 'C' connected to the pump 7 and the port '2' connected to the reservoir 9 (position C2).

[0105] Note that the same functionality can be achieved using two simple valves, for example pinch valves. A pipe management system using rotating rollers driven by an electric motor thus achieving cycle sequencing machine fluidics equivalent to two sequenced three-way solenoid valves

[0106] For an example of the operation of said three-way valves during a maintenance cycle, please refer to the description below.

[0107] The drainage means 60 are here connected to the tank 3. The used cleaning solution 14 contained in the tank 3 can thus be drained, through the drainage means 60.

[0108] Optionally and advantageously, a filter 17 is arranged on the path of the drained fluid, for example immediately downstream of the drainage means 60. The filter 17 is here secured to the base 2.

[0109] Drying the hearing aid by blowing hot air

[0110] Preferably, the maintenance device 1 further incorporates means 12 for generating air flow, here inside the base 2. The means 12 for generating air flow are configured to set air in motion towards the receptacle 3. The flow generated is preferably a forced air flow.

[0111] The generated flow passes through the cleaning cavity of the receptacle 3, which is preferably empty during the drying phase. This eliminates any wet debris that may remain on the surface of an ear tip after the cleaning and rinsing phases.

[0112] The airflow generating means 12 comprise a fan in the present example. The airflow of the fan is chosen to be sufficient to eliminate liquid droplets that would still be present on the surface of an earpiece at the start of drying. The airflow generating means 12 are for example positioned in an air chamber connected to an air duct. The air duct here opens into the cleaning cavity of the receptacle 3 via an orifice 41.

[0113] Optionally and advantageously, the maintenance device 1 further comprises heating means 13 associated with the air flow generation means 12. The heating means 13 make it possible to raise the temperature of the air flow directed towards the cleaning cavity, in order to improve the drying efficiency and accelerate the drying of the ear tip(s) 31.

[0114] The heating means 13, for example the heating resistor, are here positioned on the path of the air flow, between the air flow generation means 12 and the receptacle 3.

[0115] Using these air flow generation and heating means, it is possible to implement complete drying of the eartip(s) 31 in a reduced time, for example less than 10 minutes, preferably less than 5 minutes.

[0116] Earmold disinfection using electromagnetic radiation

[0117] Preferably, the device 1 for maintaining the earpiece of hearing aids or in-ear earphones also incorporates means for disinfection by ultraviolet radiation. Thus, the disinfection of an earpiece by a cleaning solution containing a disinfectant agent is supplemented with an additional type of disinfection, in order to increase cleaning efficiency.

[0118] The ultraviolet radiation disinfection means preferably comprise at least one ultraviolet light-emitting diode, or LED 21. In the present example, the disinfection means comprise two ultraviolet LEDs 21, mounted for example in parallel, powered by an LED current source 19. Generally speaking, the electrical power of the LEDs and their number are selected according to the desired disinfection time.

[0119] Ultraviolet radiation is used to disinfect all or part of an ear tip 31. In the present example, the ultraviolet radiation is used to specifically disinfect the contour 32 of the ear tip 31. The base 2 comprises in the present example a positioning space 20, on which the contour 32 can be positioned at the same time as the tip 31 is inserted inside the cleaning cavity of the receptacle 3. The disinfection means, here the LEDs 21, are then preferably integrated into the base 2, their beam directed towards the positioning space 20.

[0120] The LEDs 21 are preferably configured to emit UV-C type radiation, for example at wavelengths between 270 and 280 nanometers.

[0121] Alternatively or in combination, one or more LEDs configured to emit UV-A type radiation can be integrated into the disinfection means.

[0122] Earmold Maintenance and Cleaning Procedure

[0123] We describe below an ear tip maintenance method, which may correspond to a maintenance cycle implemented using a portable ear tip cleaning device. The maintenance and cleaning method is, by way of example and in a non-limiting manner, implemented by an ear tip maintenance device 1 as described above.

[0124] The method may first begin by lifting the cover 29 of the maintenance device 1 to reveal the receptacle 3 at the level of the upper surface 28. Then at least one ear tip 31 is fully or partially inserted into the cleaning cavity defined by this receptacle 3. It will be noted that several ear tips could be inserted simultaneously into the cleaning cavity.

[0125] With reference to [Fig.7], once the ear tip 31 is in position, the cleaning cavity of the receptacle 3 is filled with a volume of clean cleaning solution 15.

[0126] During this filling, the first solenoid valve 10 is adjusted so as to allow the passage of fluid between port C and port 2 (position C2). The second solenoid valve 11 is adjusted so as to allow the passage of fluid between port 1 and port C (position Cl). Thus, the activation of the pump 7 makes it possible to bring the volume of clean cleaning solution 15 from the reservoir 8 to the liquid injection means 40. The clean cleaning solution 15 is fed into the receptacle 3 and fills the cleaning cavity. The supply of the clean cleaning solution is illustrated in [Fig.7] by the filling flow Fl. The used solution reservoir 9 is thus isolated from the filling flow.

[0127] Preferably, once a sufficient volume of solution is reached in the washing receptacle 3, the operation of the pump 7 is interrupted.

[0128] Then, with reference to [Fig.8], the ultrasonic cleaning is initiated by activating at least one ultrasonic transducer 5 integrated into the cleaning device 1. As described above, the ultrasonic transducer is activated so as to generate vibratory ultrasonic waves and to generate a cavitation phenomenon within the clean cleaning solution 15, inside the cleaning cavity. In this way, the tip 31 is cleaned.

[0129] Cavitation cleaning requires that the ear tips 31 remain at least partially immersed in the cleaning solution. As indicated above, this cavitation phenomenon occurs when the ultrasonic signal source 16 is activated, and provides energy to at least one ultrasonic transducer 5 located near the receptacle 3.

[0130] Optionally and advantageously, the transducer(s) 5 can be activated by ultrasonic signals having several different frequencies, so as to generate multi-frequency vibratory ultrasonic waves at the level of the receptacle 3.

[0131] According to a first option, the pump 7 is deactivated during the ultrasonic cleaning step; thus, the volume of cleaning liquid contained in the receptacle 3 remains stable and does not undergo turbulence, which improves the quality of the cavitation. In addition, it is preferable for the first solenoid valve 10 to remain in position C2 in order to ensure that the cleaning liquid does not escape from the receptacle 3 during the cleaning step.

[0132] According to another option, the pump remains in operation during this ultrasonic cleaning step by ensuring the circulation of the cleaning fluid between the reservoir 8, the receptacle 3 and the reservoir 9, or even the intermediate reservoir 6 or vice versa, advantageously by generating a swirling liquid flow, called a “vortex effect”, around the ear tip 31 positioned in the cleaning cavity.

[0133] The activation of transducer 5 is illustrated in [Fig.8] by the electrical signal C across the terminals of source 16 and transducer 5.

[0134] Ultrasonic cleaning is, for example, carried out for a period of 1 to 10 minutes, preferably 1 to 5 minutes.

[0135] Then, with reference to [Fig.9] and once the ultrasonic cleaning is complete, rinse the ear tip 31. For rinsing, the ear tip 31 preferably remains inserted inside the cleaning cavity. Rinsing removes dry and / or wet dust and debris that have been separated.

[0136] In this example, rinsing is performed using the used cleaning solution 14 from the previous ultrasonic cleaning step. Pump 7 and valves 10 and 11 are used to recirculate and move the cleaning solution within the wells of the cleaning cavity.

[0137] The invention is not limited to such rinsing using a used solution. This rinsing step can also be carried out using a clean cleaning solution.

[0138] In this example, both three-way valves 10 and 11 are set to position Cl, which ensures that the recirculated cleaning solution does not escape to tanks 8 and 9 (closed circuit). The volume of solution used for rinsing is, for example, between double and triple the volume of solution used for cleaning.

[0139] A rinsing flow F2 is thus generated corresponding to a swirling liquid flow, called a “vortex effect”, around the earpiece 31 positioned in the cleaning cavity. Preferably, the geometry of the receptacle 3 and / or the geometry of the injection means 40 is adapted to maximize the vortex effect during rinsing. For example, the injection means 40 define at least one liquid flow inlet orifice, configured to project the liquid tangentially to the side wall 34 of the receptacle 3.

[0140] The cleaning solution recirculated during rinsing is preferably filtered, here by the filter 17 present on the conduit 60. An advantage is to ensure that the wet and / or solid debris and / or dust resulting from cleaning are not also recirculated in the cleaning cavity.

[0141] As already mentioned above, alternatively, the rinsing step can take place at the same time as the ultrasonic cleaning continues.

[0142] Then, with reference to [Fig. 10], the device 1 carries out an emptying of the receptacle 3 and, if necessary, an emptying of the intermediate tank 6. The volumes of used cleaning solution 14 present in the receptacle 3 and the intermediate tank 6 are then emptied, for example into the tank 9 of used cleaning solution.

[0143] To do this, the pump is activated so as to drain the liquid present in the receptacle 3. In addition, here, the flow control system 10 is adjusted so as to allow the passage of fluid between port C and port 1 (position C1) and to allow the passage of fluid between port 2 and port C (position C2). The clean solution tank 8 is thus isolated from the drain flow.

[0144] The drainage of the used cleaning solution is illustrated in [Fig.10] by the drain stream F3, directed towards the used cleaning solution tank 9.

[0145] After cleaning and rinsing, the device 1 preferably implements drying of the ear tip 31. This prevents residual traces of moisture from remaining at the ear tip 31 after its maintenance. To this end, as described above, the device 1 preferably incorporates autonomous drying means.

[0146] For example, the eartip(s) 31 are dried using a flow of hot air, preferably forced, directed towards the receptacle 3. The flow of hot air is here generated by the air generation means 12 and the air heating means 13.

[0147] A complete maintenance cycle of ear tip 31 can thus be carried out in a duration of less than or equal to twenty minutes.

[0148] It will be noted that it is possible to implement, at any stage of the maintenance cycle among the stages described above, a partial or total disinfection of an earpiece 31 using a beam of ultraviolet rays. In the present example, a beam of ultraviolet disinfection rays is generated by at least one ultraviolet light-emitting diode, or LED 21, integrated into the device 1. Preferably, the LED(s) 21 are of the UV-C type.

[0149] The maintenance cycle may further be associated, where appropriate, with electrical recharging of the hearing aid 30 or in-ear earphone, typically of a battery equipping the latter. The recharging means (not illustrated in the attached figures) may be wireless or comprise a contact switch.

[0150] Eartip cleaning receptacle conformation

[0151] The base 2 of the ear tip maintenance device 1 comprises, as indicated above, a receptacle 3 defining at least one cleaning cavity provided to receive a volume of cleaning liquid, and to receive all or part of the ear tip 31 for cleaning.

[0152] According to a possible example, with reference to [Fig. 11], the receptacle 3 comprises a bottom wall 33 delimiting the bottom of the cleaning cavity, a side wall 34 rising vertically from the periphery of the bottom wall 33, and a free edge 35 formed by the upper edge of the side wall 34. In [Fig. 11], the receptacle 3 is shown in isolation and separately from the base 2.

[0153] The side wall 34 is tubular in shape and here has an oblong section. The side wall 34 defines a bottom wall 33 of oblong shape and a free edge 35 also of oblong section. The bottom wall 33 extends longitudinally parallel to a direction A. The direction A is for example parallel to an extension axis of the hinge 290 of the cover. The bottom wall 33 is inclined in the direction normal to the direction A to optimize the suction of the fluid.

[0154] A liquid level sensor can further be added at the cleaning cavity in receptacle 3, in order to better control the fluid volume at each stage of the maintenance cycle.

[0155] An oblong conformation of the side wall 34 allows on the one hand to simultaneously insert several ear tips 31 of hearing aids or in-ear earphones, and on the other hand to receive a wide variety of possible shapes of ear tips. Furthermore, the shape of the cleaning cavity could be round or oval. Alternatively, the shape of the cleaning cavity could correspond exactly to a specific ear tip of an in-ear earphone or hearing aid, to receive only said ear tip.

[0156] Likewise, the cavity of the receptacle 3 can receive an additional support allowing the reception of the ear tips 31 of hearing aids or in-ear earphones for optimal immersion.

[0157] In this example, the receptacle 3 is held by peripheral supports 36, into which positioning studs (not shown) are inserted which can be fixed to the base 2. The peripheral supports 36 make it possible to mount the receptacle 3 in the base 2.

[0158] An outlet orifice 18 (figure 11) allows excess fluid to be evacuated from the tank in the event of an operating fault.

[0159] As described above, at least one ultrasonic transducer 5 (not shown in [Fig. 1 1]) is located against the bottom wall 33, preferably on the lower face of the bottom wall 33.

[0160] [Fig. 11] illustrates the injection of fluid into cavity 3 via connector 40. The fluid is thus sent to the two orifices 40-1 and 40-2 which open here at the side wall 34. This figure also illustrates an example of the positioning of the end of the drainage tube, corresponding to the liquid drainage means 60. This end opens here at the bottom wall 33.

[0161] Alternatively, the washing receptacle 3 may define several distinct cleaning cavities, for example two distinct cavities, which are preferably of substantially identical conformation. Each of the cleaning cavities is then provided to receive an earpiece 31 of a hearing aid or in-ear earphone.

[0162] In the example in [Fig.6], the system integrates a fixed tank 8 for the cleaning solution and a second tank 9 for the used solution (removable).

[0163] The filling of the tank 8 can be carried out using a container equipped with a measuring device or using a container with a volume equivalent to the tank 8.

[0164] A level sensor integrated into the tank 9 can indicate to the user that it must be removed and emptied before being replaced.

[0165] Alternative example - Removable cartridge including cleaning solution reservoirs

[0166] With reference to the operating diagram of [Fig. 12], according to an alternative example, the maintenance device 1 may comprise a removable cartridge 4, complementary to the base 2, connectable and disconnectable from the base 2.

[0167] The cartridge 4 comprises a clean cleaning solution tank 8' and a used cleaning solution tank 9', extending into an internal volume of the cartridge 4.

[0168] Optionally and advantageously, to optimize the space within the removable cartridge, a movable wall separates the clean cleaning solution tank 8' and the used cleaning solution tank 9'. The movable wall is here formed by a diaphragm 44. The diaphragm 44 hermetically separates the respective volumes of the tanks 8' and 9'.

[0169] Here, the removable cartridge 4 and its 8' and 9' tanks replace the clean cleaning solution and used cleaning solution tanks integrated into base 2.

[0170] In this example, the clean cleaning solution tank 8' is connected to the pump inlet 70 via the fluid redirection means just as the used cleaning solution tank 9' is connected to the pump outlet 71.

[0171] The ear tip maintenance method can be implemented in a manner similar to the description above.

[0172] Optionally and advantageously, the removable cartridge 4 comprises an electronic memory, for example a writable non-volatile memory 42 here. The removable cartridge 4 here comprises electrical contacts 43, the writable non-volatile memory 42 being accessible via the electrical contacts 43. Such an electronic memory allows the user to monitor the filling rate of the clean cleaning solution reservoir 8' of the cartridge 4, and / or to ensure that the type of cartridge used corresponds to the model of maintenance device 1 with which it is desired to use the cartridge 4.

[0173] In addition, the cartridge 4 optionally includes a filter 17' for filtering the drained used cleaning solution. In this case, it is possible not to include another filter integral with the base 2 downstream of the drainage means 60.

[0174] Cartridge 4 can be used as a consumable for Device 1 and replaced with a new cartridge as needed.

[0175] In the new state of the cartridge, the clean cleaning solution tank 8' is full and the used cleaning solution tank 9' is empty. In the half-used state of the cartridge, the respective filling rates of the two tanks 8' and 9' are equal or close. In the fully used state of the cartridge, the tank 8' clean cleaning solution tank is empty and 9' used cleaning solution tank is full.

Claims

Claims

1. Maintenance device for an earpiece (31) of a hearing aid (30) or an in-ear earphone, comprising a base (2) comprising a washing receptacle (3) defining at least one cavity intended to receive the earpiece (31), and further comprising means (40) for injecting cleaning liquid into the cavity, the maintenance device being characterized in that it further comprises: - at least one ultrasonic transducer (5) configured to generate ultrasonic waves at the washing receptacle (3), so as to generate a cavitation phenomenon within a volume of liquid received inside the cavity.

2. A maintenance device according to claim 1, further comprising: - a clean cleaning solution tank (8; 8') and a used cleaning solution tank (9; 9'), separate from the cavity defined by the washing receptacle (3), - cleaning solution circulation means (7, 10, 11) for supplying a clean cleaning solution (15) from the clean cleaning solution reservoir (8; 8') to the liquid injection means (40), said circulation means (7, 10, 11) further allowing the drainage of a used cleaning solution (15) to the used cleaning solution reservoir (9; 9') from the washing receptacle (3).

3. Maintenance device according to claim 2, in which the means (7, 10, 11) for circulating cleaning solution comprise at least one pump (7) of the membrane, peristaltic or other type.

4. Maintenance device according to claim 3, in which the cleaning solution circulation means (7, 10, 11) comprise fluid redirection means (10, 11) comprising at least one or more simple pinch or three-way valves.

5. Maintenance device according to claim 4, wherein the fluid redirection means (10, 11) are connectable to the clean cleaning solution tank (8; 8') and to the used cleaning solution tank (9; 9').

6. A maintenance device according to claim 5 considered in combination, wherein the fluid redirection means (10, 11) comprise a port connected to a fluid inlet (70) of the pump (7), and wherein the fluid redirection means (10, 11) comprise a additional port connected to a fluid outlet (71) of the pump (7).

7. A maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one ultrasonic transducer (5) is configured to generate, in operation, ultrasonic waves corresponding to a plurality of distinct frequencies.

8. A maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one ultrasonic transducer (5) comprises a piezoelectric crystal.

9. Maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the washing receptacle (3) comprises a bottom wall (33) delimiting a bottom of the cavity, the ultrasonic transducer (5) being placed against said bottom wall (33).

10. Maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, in which the washing receptacle (3) comprises a side wall (34), the liquid injection means (40) defining at least one tangential liquid inlet orifice configured to project a liquid tangentially to said side wall (34).

11. Maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the device comprising means for generating (12) air flow towards the washing receptacle (3), preferably means for generating a forced air flow, the device preferably further comprising means for heating (13) said air flow.

12. Maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the device comprising at least means for disinfection by ultraviolet radiation, configured to emit ultraviolet disinfection radiation.

13. A maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the base (2) further comprises a filter (17), which is arranged on the fluid path defined by the cleaning solution circulation means (10, 11).

14. Maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the clean cleaning solution reservoir (8') and / or the used cleaning solution reservoir (9') are integrated into a removable cartridge (4) connectable to and disconnectable from the base (2).

15. Maintenance device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, in which the washing receptacle (3) defines two cavities, of substantially identical conformation, each designed to receive an earpiece (31).

16. Method for maintaining at least one earpiece (31) of a hearing aid or in-ear earphone comprising, the method comprising steps of: - filling a cleaning cavity in a washing receptacle (3) with a clean cleaning solution (15), the ear tip (31) being positioned in the cleaning cavity, - activation of an ultrasonic transducer (5) at the washing receptacle (3), so as to generate ultrasonic waves and to cause a cavitation phenomenon within the clean cleaning solution (15) inside the cavity, so that ultrasonic cleaning of the tip (31) is carried out, the maintenance method being capable of being implemented by a maintenance device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

17. A maintenance method according to claim 16 comprising a step of rinsing the earpiece (31) inside the cavity, using the cleaning solution (15).

18. Maintenance method according to claim 17, in which the rinsing step comprises the generation of a swirling liquid flow, called a vortex effect, around the tip (31) positioned in the cleaning cavity.

19. A maintenance method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, wherein the clean cleaning solution employed comprises a disinfecting agent, so as to implement additional cleaning of the earpiece (31) by disinfection when said earpiece (31) is positioned in the cleaning cavity.

20. A maintenance method according to any one of claims 16 to 19, the method comprising an additional step of drying the tip (31) using a flow of hot air directed towards the washing receptacle (3), preferably a forced flow of hot air.

21. Maintenance method according to any one of claims 16 to 20, the method comprising an additional step of disinfecting at least part of the ear tip (31) using a beam of ultraviolet radiation, said beam preferably being generated by at least one light-emitting diode or ultraviolet LED (21) of the UV-C type.

22. A maintenance method according to any one of claims 16 to 21, wherein the ultrasonic cleaning step comprises activating multi-frequency of the ultrasonic transducer (5), so as to generate ultrasonic waves according to a plurality of distinct frequencies at the washing receptacle (3).

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