Hearing aid, control method and program

Abstract

To provide a hearing aid improved in convenience, a control method and a program for the hearing aid.SOLUTION: In a hearing aid system, a hearing aid 2 includes a ventilation path 140, a ventilation adjustment section 150, a use state detection section 110, and a ventilation control section 120. The ventilation path 140 is arranged in a main body section at least partially inserted into an external auditory canal of a user, and enables ventilation between the external auditory canal of the user and outside. The ventilation adjustment section 150 adjusts the ventilation of the ventilation path 140. The use state detection section 110 detects a use state of the user. The ventilation control section 120 controls the ventilation adjustment section 150 based on a detection result of the use state detection section 110.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a hearing aid, a control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There has been proposed a hearing aid (hearing device) that includes an earpiece constituting the hearing aid and has a ventilation path for ventilating the external auditory canal, and a mechanism for adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation path (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This ventilation adjustment is performed according to external sounds.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above prior art, the control of the ventilation of the ventilation path is not sufficiently disclosed, and there is a problem of low convenience.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes a hearing aid with improved convenience.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The hearing aid according to the present disclosure includes a ventilation path, a ventilation adjustment unit, a usage state detection unit, and a ventilation control unit. The ventilation path ventilates external air and the external auditory canal, and is disposed in a main body portion that is at least partially inserted into the user's external auditory canal. The ventilation adjustment unit adjusts the ventilation of the ventilation path. The usage state detection unit detects the usage state of the user. The ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit based on the detection result of the usage state detection unit.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

Figure 22

Figure 23

Figure 24

Figure 25

Figure 26

Figure 27

Figure 28

Figure 29

Figure 30

Figure 31

Figure 32

Figure 33

Figure 34

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The description will be made in the following order. In each of the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted. 1. Overview of the hearing aid system 2. First Embodiment 3. Second Embodiment 4. Examples of data utilization 5. Examples of cooperation with other devices 6. Examples of usage transition

[0009] (1. Overview of the hearing aid system) First, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, the overview of the hearing aid system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the hearing aid system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the functional blocks of the hearing aid 2 and the charger 3 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the functional blocks of the information processing terminal 40 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] As shown in FIG. 1, the hearing aid system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes a pair of left and right hearing aids 2, a charger 3 (charging case) that houses the hearing aids 2 and charges the hearing aids 2, and an information processing terminal 40 such as a smartphone that can communicate with at least one of the hearing aids 2 and the charger 3. Hereinafter, each device included in the hearing aid system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be sequentially described. In the following description, the hearing aids 2 are described as being configured as a pair for both ears, but the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and may be a single-ear type worn on either the left or right side.

[0011] First, the functional configuration of the hearing aid 2 will be described. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, at least a part of the hearing aid 2 can be configured to be wearable on a part of the user's external auditory canal. Note that the appearance of the hearing aid 2 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure will be described later. As shown in FIG. 2, the hearing aid 2 mainly includes a sound collection unit 20 (20b, 20f), a signal processing unit 21, an output unit 22, a battery 25, a connection unit 26, communication units 27 and 30, a storage unit 28, and a control unit 29.

[0012] The sound collection unit 20 includes an outer (feedforward) sound collection unit 20f that collects sounds in the outer region of the external auditory canal and an inner (feedback) sound collection unit 20b that collects sounds in the inner region of the external auditory canal. In the hearing aid 2 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is sufficient if at least the outer sound collection unit 20f that collects sounds in the outer region of the external auditory canal is provided. Each sound collection unit 20 has a microphone (hereinafter also referred to as a mic) 201 and an A / D (analog / digital) conversion unit 202. The mic 201 collects sound to generate an analog audio signal (acoustic signal) and outputs it to the A / D conversion unit 202. The A / D conversion unit 202 performs digital conversion processing on the analog audio signal input from the mic 201 and outputs the digitized audio signal to the signal processing unit 21.

[0013] The signal processing unit 21 performs predetermined signal processing on the digital audio signal input from the sound collection unit 20 under the control of the control unit 29 described later and outputs it to the output unit 22. Here, examples of the predetermined signal processing include filtering processing for separating the audio signal for each predetermined frequency band, amplification processing for amplifying each predetermined frequency band subjected to the filtering processing by a predetermined amplification amount, noise reduction processing, and howling cancellation processing. The signal processing unit 21 can be configured by, for example, a memory and a processor having hardware such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor).

[0014] The output unit 22 includes a D / A (digital / analog) conversion unit 221 and a receiver 222. The D / A conversion unit 221 performs analog conversion processing on the digital audio signal input from the signal processing unit 21 and outputs it to the receiver 222. The receiver 222 outputs an output sound (voice) corresponding to the analog audio signal input from the D / A conversion unit 221. The receiver 222 can be configured using, for example, a speaker or the like.

[0015] The battery 25 supplies power to each part constituting the hearing aid 2. The battery 25 can be constituted by, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery such as a lithium ion battery. Further, the battery 25 can be charged by the power supplied from the charger 3 via the connection part 26.

[0016] The connection part 26 can, for example, when the hearing aid 2 is housed in the charger 3, connect to the connection part of the charger 3, receive power and various information from the charger 3, and output various information to the charger 3. The connection part 26 can be configured using, for example, one or a plurality of pins.

[0017] The communication unit 27 can communicate with the charger 3 or the information processing terminal 40 according to a predetermined communication standard via a communication network under the control of the control unit 29. Here, as the predetermined communication standard, for example, Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark) etc. are assumed. The communication unit 27 can be configured using, for example, a communication module or the like. Further, the communication unit 30 can communicate with the other hearing aid 2 by short-range communication such as NFMI (Near Field Magnetic Induction) under the control of the control unit 29.

[0018] The memory unit 28 stores various types of information regarding the hearing aid 2. The memory unit 28 can be configured using, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a memory card, and the like. The memory unit 28 can store the program 281 executed by the hearing aid 2 and various types of data 282 used in the hearing aid 2. For example, as the data 282, the user's age, the presence or absence of the user's experience in using the hearing aid 2, the user's gender, and the like can be mentioned. Furthermore, as the data, the usage time of the user using the hearing aid 2 measured by a timing unit (not shown) can be mentioned. Also, the timing unit is provided inside the hearing aid 2, can measure the date and time, and can output the measurement result to the control unit 29 and the like. The timing unit can be configured using, for example, a timing generator or a timer having a timing function.

[0019] The control unit 29 controls each part constituting the hearing aid 2. The control unit 29 can be configured using, for example, a memory and a processor having hardware such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor). The control unit 29 reads out the stored program 281 to the working area of the memory and executes it, and controls each component through the execution of the program by the processor.

[0020] Also, although not shown in FIG. 2, the hearing aid 2 may have an operation unit. The operation unit can receive the input of an activation signal (trigger signal) for activating the hearing aid 2 and output the received activation signal to the control unit 29. The operation unit can be configured using, for example, a push-type switch, a button, or a touch panel.

[0021] Also, the hearing aid 2 may be equipped with a biological information sensor (not shown), which is a non-invasive sensor device capable of acquiring various types of biological information (sensing data) of the user. Examples of the biological information sensor include a blood flow sensor that detects the user's pulse, heartbeat, blood flow, blood oxygen, and the like.

[0022] Furthermore, the hearing aid 2 may be equipped with an inertial measurement unit (IMU) (not shown) capable of acquiring information on the user's posture and movement. Specifically, the IMU includes an acceleration sensor, which is an inertial sensor for acquiring acceleration, a gyro sensor (angular velocity sensor), which is an inertial sensor for acquiring angular velocity, and the like. In addition, the hearing aid 2 may have a vibration sensor (not shown) instead of or together with the IMU.

[0023] Furthermore, the hearing aid 2 may include a positioning sensor (not shown) capable of acquiring information on the user's position. The positioning sensor is a sensor that detects the position of the target user wearing the hearing aid 2, and specifically, can be a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver or the like. In this case, the positioning sensor can generate sensing data indicating the latitude and longitude of the current location of the target user based on signals from GNSS satellites. Also, for example, since it is possible to detect the relative positional relationship of the user from information such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Wi-Fi access points, and radio base stations, the hearing aid 2 may be equipped with such a communication device as the positioning sensor.

[0024] Next, the functional configuration of the charger 3 will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the charger 3 mainly includes a display unit 31, a battery 32, a storage unit 33, a communication unit 34, a memory unit 35, and a control unit 36.

[0025] The display unit 31 displays various states regarding the hearing aid 2 under the control of the control unit 36. For example, the display unit 31 can display information indicating that the hearing aid 2 is being charged, and information indicating that various information is being received from the information processing terminal 40. The display unit 31 can be configured using, for example, a light-emitting LED (Light Emitting Diode) or the like.

[0026] The battery 32 supplies power to each part constituting the hearing aid 2 and the charger 3 stored in the storage part 33 via the connection part 331 provided in the storage part 33. The battery 32 can be configured using a secondary battery such as a lithium-ion battery, for example.

[0027] When the hearing aid 2 has two channels (left and right), the storage part 33 stores each channel separately. Note that the hearing aid 2 may be of a single-ear type. The storage part 33 is provided with a connection part 331 that can be connected to the connection part 26 of the hearing aid 2. When the hearing aid 2 is stored in the storage part 33, the connection part 331 connects to the connection part 26 of the hearing aid 2, transmits power from the battery 32 and various information from the control part 36, and receives various information from the hearing aid 2 and outputs it to the control part 36. The connection part 331 can be configured using, for example, one or more pins.

[0028] Under the control of the control part 36, the communication part 34 communicates with the information processing terminal 40 according to a predetermined communication standard via a communication network. The communication part 34 can be configured using, for example, a communication module.

[0029] The storage part 35 stores various programs 351 executed by the charger 3. The storage part 35 can be configured using, for example, a RAM, a ROM, a flash memory, a memory card, etc.

[0030] The control part 36 controls each part constituting the charger 3. For example, when the hearing aid 2 is stored in the storage part 33, the control part 36 causes power to be supplied from the battery 32 via the connection part 331. The control part 36 can be configured using, for example, a processor having a memory and hardware such as a CPU or a DSP. The control part 36 reads the program 351 into the working area of the memory and executes it, and controls each component etc. through the execution of the program by the processor.

[0031] Next, the functional configuration of the information processing terminal 40 will be described. As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing terminal 40 mainly includes an input unit 41, a communication unit 42, an output unit 43, a display unit 44, a storage unit 45, and a control unit 46.

[0032] The input unit 41 receives inputs of various operations from the user and outputs a signal corresponding to the received operation to the control unit 46. The input unit 41 can be configured using, for example, a switch and a touch panel.

[0033] The communication unit 42 communicates with the charger 3 or the hearing aid 2 via a communication network under the control of the control unit 46. The communication unit 42 can be configured using, for example, a communication module.

[0034] The output unit 43 outputs a volume at a predetermined sound pressure level for each predetermined frequency band under the control of the control unit 46. The output unit 43 can be configured using, for example, a speaker.

[0035] The display unit 44 displays various information related to the information processing terminal 40 and information related to the hearing aid 2 under the control of the control unit 46. The display unit 44 can be configured using, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic electroluminescent display (Organic Electroluminescent Display).

[0036] The storage unit 45 stores various information related to the information processing terminal 40. The storage unit 45 stores various programs 451 and the like executed by the information processing terminal 40. The storage unit 45 can be configured using, for example, a recording medium such as a RAM, a ROM, a flash memory, or a memory card.

[0037] The control unit 46 controls each unit constituting the information processing terminal 40. The control unit 46 can be configured using, for example, a memory and a processor having hardware such as a CPU. The control unit 46 reads out the program stored in the storage unit 45 into the working area of the memory and executes it, and controls each component through the execution of the program by the processor.

[0038] In addition, the information processing terminal 40 may include a positioning sensor (not shown). The positioning sensor is a sensor that detects the position of the user carrying the information processing terminal 40, and specifically, it can be a GNSS receiver or the like. In this case, the positioning sensor can generate sensing data indicating the latitude and longitude of the user's current location based on signals from GNSS satellites. Also, for example, since it is possible to detect the relative positional relationship of the user from RFID, Wi-Fi access points, information of radio base stations, etc., the information processing terminal 40 may be equipped with such a communication device as the above positioning sensor.

[0039] In addition, the information processing terminal 40 may be equipped with an imaging device (not shown). Specifically, the imaging device can be configured to include an imaging element (not shown) such as a CMOS (Complementary MOS) image sensor, and a signal processing circuit (not shown) that performs imaging signal processing on the signal photoelectrically converted by the imaging element. Further, the imaging device can further include an optical system mechanism (not shown) composed of an imaging lens, a diaphragm mechanism, a zoom lens, a focus lens, etc., and a drive system mechanism (not shown) that controls the operation of the above optical system mechanism. Also, the information processing terminal 40 may be equipped with an IMU (not shown) capable of acquiring information on the user's posture and movement. Also, the information processing terminal 40 may have a vibration sensor (not shown) instead of or together with the IMU.

[0040] Note that in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the functional configurations of the hearing aid system 1 and each device included therein are not limited to the forms shown in FIGS. 1 to 3. For example, as will be described later, the hearing aid system 1 may include a server or the like.

[0041] In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure described below, the case where it is applied to the hearing aid system 1 will be described as an example. However, in the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is not limited to being applied to the hearing aid system 1, and it can also be applied to a system including other auditory devices (for example, earphones, headphones, etc.).

[0042] (2. First Embodiment) [Configuration of Hearing Aid] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a hearing aid according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a hearing aid 2 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The hearing aid 2 in the figure includes an outer sound collection unit 20f, an output unit 22, a sensor 23, a communication unit 27, a control unit 29, a drive unit 130, a ventilation path 140, and a ventilation adjustment unit 150. Note that the same reference numerals are given to the parts common to the hearing aid 2 in FIG. 1. In addition, a smartphone 50 and the information processing terminal 40 described in FIG. 3 are further shown in the figure.

[0043] The hearing aid 2 in the figure is arranged in the main body 10 as will be described later. This main body 10 includes a ventilation path 140. This ventilation path 140 ventilates the user's external auditory canal and the outside. The dotted line in the figure represents the ventilation path 140.

[0044] The ventilation adjustment unit 150 adjusts the ventilation of the ventilation path 140. Details of the configuration of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 will be described later.

[0045] The drive unit 130 drives the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the control of a ventilation control unit 120 described later.

[0046] For the sensor 23, for example, the aforementioned inertial measurement unit or a biological information sensor that detects the user's heart rate, blood pressure, and sleep can be applied. In addition, a sensor that detects the state of the outside air, such as a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, and a barometric pressure sensor, can also be applied to the sensor 23. The sensor 23 outputs measurement results and the like to the control unit 29.

[0047] The control unit 29 includes a usage state detection unit 110 and a ventilation control unit 120.

[0048] The usage state detection unit 110 detects the usage state of the user. This usage state includes, for example, the user's operations, movements, voice, voices other than the user's, the direction of the user's head, the ambient sound of the user, the sound reproduced by the streaming device used by the user, the situation of the outside air, the user's heart rate, and the user's blood pressure. In addition, the usage situation further includes specific sounds for the user, incoming calls to the user's communication device, and the user's sleep. Note that the state of the outside air corresponds to, for example, temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure. The usage state detection unit 110 outputs the detection result to the ventilation control unit 120.

[0049] The ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the detection result of the usage state detection unit 110. This ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 via the drive unit 130.

[0050] [Configuration of the main body unit] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the main body unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure represents a configuration example of the main body unit 10 of the hearing aid 2. The hearing aid 2 in the figure is disposed in the main body unit 10. The main body unit 10 is configured in a shape that can be inserted into the user's ear canal. In the main body unit 10, the microphone 201f, the receiver 222, the signal processing board 12, the ventilation path 140, and the ventilation adjustment unit 150 described in FIG. 2 are disposed. In addition, an ear sleeve 19 is attached to the main body unit 10. The portion of the main body unit 10 to which the ear sleeve 19 is attached is inserted into the ear canal.

[0051] The signal processing board 12 is a board on which the control unit 29 and the like described in FIG. 4 are disposed. The microphone 201f is disposed on the main body unit 10 on the side opposite to the side to which the ear sleeve 19 is attached, and detects external sounds. The receiver 222 is disposed facing the opening 11 of the main body unit 10.

[0052] The ventilation passage 140 is a passage connecting the outer ear canal side and the outside air side of the main body 10, and for example, it can be configured in a tubular shape that penetrates the side facing the outer ear canal of the main body 10 and the side facing the outside air. The ventilation passage 140 in the figure represents an example formed between the opening 11 and the side surface of the main body 10. The ventilation passage 140 including the ventilation adjustment unit 150 functions as a vent for ventilating the user's outer ear canal and the outside. The ventilation adjustment unit 150 in the figure represents an example arranged in a part of the ventilation passage 140. Thus, the ventilation adjustment unit 150 can be arranged at any position of the ventilation passage 140. In the figure, the description of the drive unit 130 is omitted.

[0053] [Configuration of Ventilation Adjustment Unit] FIGS. 6A and 6B are diagrams showing a configuration example of a ventilation adjustment unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6A is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of the ventilation adjustment unit 150. The ventilation adjustment unit 150 is configured by a plate-shaped main body 151 having flexibility, and a ventilation port 152 is formed in the central portion. The main body 151 can be configured by, for example, soft silicon. The dashed-dotted line in the figure represents the cross-section of the ventilation passage 140.

[0054] FIG. 6B is a diagram showing the detailed configuration of the ventilation adjustment unit 150. The left side of FIG. 6B shows the state where the ventilation port 152 is open. Also, the right side of FIG. 6B shows the state where the ventilation port 152 is closed. Soft actuators 153 and 154 are arranged above and below or to the left and right of the ventilation port 152. The soft actuators 153 and 154 are configured using conductive polymer actuators that can expand and contract according to voltage or current. For example, the conductive polymer actuator is configured using polyaniline or polypyrrole, etc. The soft actuators 153 and 154 atrophy (shrink) when power (positive voltage) is supplied, and extend (expand) when the supply of power stops. When the soft actuators 153 and 154 expand, the ventilation port 152 opens, and when the soft actuators 153 and 154 contract, the ventilation port 152 closes. The power for driving the soft actuators 153 and 154 is supplied by a drive unit 130 (not shown). By adjusting the power supplied to the soft actuators 153 and 154, the opening of the ventilation port 152 can be adjusted. In this way, the ventilation adjustment unit 150 can adjust the ventilation volume between the user's external auditory canal and the outside when the hearing aid 2 is worn on the user's ear.

[0055] Note that the configuration of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 is not limited to this example. For example, a ventilation adjustment unit 150 having a configuration in which a valve is arranged in the ventilation path 140 and the valve is driven to open and close by a piezo actuator to control ventilation can also be used.

[0056] [Configuration of Ventilation Adjustment Unit] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the usage form of the hearing aid according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a diagram showing an example of the usage form of the hearing aid 2. The hearing aid 2 is used by being inserted into the user's earhole. The opening 11 faces the external auditory canal 9. Also, the ventilation path 140 is formed between the opening 11 and the side surface of the main body 10.

[0057] [Other Configurations of Hearing Aid] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another configuration example of the hearing aid according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure represents another configuration example of the hearing aid 2. The hearing aid 2 in the figure represents an example of an ear-hook type hearing aid. The hearing aid 2 in the figure is arranged in the housing 8. Further, a tube 18 and an earplug 17 are attached to the housing 8. This earplug 17 part is inserted into the ear canal. Also, the tube 18 is configured in a shape that covers the opening 11 of the housing 8. Also in the hearing aid 2 in the figure, an air passage 140 and an air adjustment unit 150 are arranged. Note that in the hearing aid 2 in the figure, the housing 8, the tube 18, and the earplug 17 constitute the main body part.

[0058] [Hearing Aid Processing] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart representing an example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example of the case where the ventilation of the air adjustment unit 150 is adjusted based on the operation of the user input via the information processing terminal 40. First, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires an input from the information processing terminal 40 via the communication unit 27 (step S101). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the acquired input is a user operation (step S102). As a result, when the acquired input is a user operation (step S102, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 adjusts the ventilation of the air adjustment unit 150 based on the user operation (step S103). Specifically, when the user operation is an operation to close the ventilation port 152, the ventilation control unit 120 closes the ventilation port 152 of the air adjustment unit 150. Also, when the user operation is an operation to open the ventilation port 152, the ventilation control unit 120 controls to open the ventilation port 152 of the air adjustment unit 150. On the other hand, in step S102, when the acquired input is not a user operation (step S102, No), the usage state detection unit 110 shifts to the process of step S101.

[0059] Note that step S102 is an example of the "usage state detection procedure" of the present disclosure. Step S103 is an example of the "ventilation control procedure" and the "ventilation adjustment procedure" of the present disclosure. The process of step S102 is an example of "detecting the usage state" of the present disclosure. The process of step S103 is an example of "controlling the adjustment of ventilation" and "adjusting ventilation" of the present disclosure.

[0060] When opening the ventilation port 152, in addition to fully opening (100% opening), it can also be set to a previously set opening degree. This also applies to subsequent processes.

[0061] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example of the case where the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 is adjusted based on the signal of the sensor 23 constituting the motion sensor. First, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a signal from the sensor 23 (step S111). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether a predetermined motion of the user is detected based on the acquired signal (step S112). Here, the predetermined motion corresponds to, for example, a gesture such as the user looking upward. As a result, if a predetermined motion of the user is detected (step S112, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 adjusts the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the predetermined motion of the user. Specifically, when the user looks upward, an operation to close the ventilation port 152 can be performed. On the other hand, in step S112, if a predetermined motion of the user is not detected (step S112, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S111.

[0062] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example of a voice-based ventilation control process (S120) for adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the user's voice, i.e., the self-voice. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to close the ventilation port 152 (step S121). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires the sound signal from the microphone 201f (step S122). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting the self-voice from the acquired sound signal (step S123). As a result, in the case of the user's voice (step S124, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to open the ventilation port 152 (step S125), and the process proceeds to the process of step S122. On the other hand, in step S124, when the user's voice is not detected (step S124, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S121.

[0063] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example of a speaker-based ventilation control process (S130) for adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the voice of a person other than the user. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S131). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires the sound signal from the microphone 201f (step S132). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting the voice from the acquired sound signal (step S133). As a result, in the case of a voice other than the user, that is, in the case of a speaker present (step S134, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S135), and the process proceeds to the process of step S132. On the other hand, in step S134, when a voice other than the user is not detected (step S134, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S131.

[0064] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Similar to FIG. 12, this figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the processing of the hearing aid 2. The processing of this figure represents an example in the case of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 further based on the orientation of the user. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S141). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a sound signal from the microphone 201f (step S142). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting the sound direction from the acquired sound signal (step S143). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a signal from the sensor 23 constituting the motion sensor (step S144). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting the direction of the user's head (step S145).

[0065] As a result, when the sound direction and the direction of the user's head match (step S146, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S147). Thereafter, the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S142. On the other hand, in step S146, when the sound direction and the direction of the user's head do not match (step S146, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S141.

[0066] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the processing of the hearing aid 2. The processing in this figure represents an example of an environmental sound-based ventilation control process (S150) for adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the environmental sound of the user. Here, the environmental sound is, for example, noise or background noise. First, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a sound signal from the microphone 201f (step S151). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting environmental sound from the acquired sound signal (step S152). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the environmental sound is loud (step S153). For example, it can be determined that the environmental sound is loud when the detected environmental sound exceeds a predetermined threshold. As a result, when the environmental sound is loud (step S153, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S155), and the process proceeds to the process of step S151. On the other hand, in step S153, when the environmental sound is not loud (step S153, No), the usage state detection unit 110 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S154), and the process proceeds to the process of step S151.

[0067] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example in the case of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the sound reproduced by the streaming device used by the user. Here, as the streaming device, for example, the smartphone 50 is applicable. First, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether streaming audio is being reproduced (step S161). As a result, if streaming audio is being reproduced (step S161, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S162), and the process proceeds to the process of step S161. On the other hand, in step S161, if streaming audio is not being reproduced (step S161, No), the usage state detection unit 110 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S163), and the process proceeds to the process of step S161.

[0068] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Similar to FIG. 15, the figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example in the case of further adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the direction of the streaming device used by the user. First, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether streaming audio is being reproduced (step S171). As a result, if streaming audio is not being reproduced (step S171, No), the ventilation control unit 120 proceeds to the process of step S178.

[0069] On the one hand, in step S171, in the case of playing streaming audio (step S171, Yes), the usage state detection unit 110 acquires the direction of the streaming device (step S173). This can be done, for example, by acquiring Bluetooth (registered trademark) direction information when connecting to the smartphone 50 which is a streaming device via Bluetooth (registered trademark). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires the signal of the sensor 23 that constitutes the motion sensor (step S174). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting the direction of the user's head (step S175). As a result, when the direction of the streaming device and the direction of the user's head do not match (step S176, No), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S177), and proceeds to the process of step S171.

[0070] On the other hand, in step S176, when the direction of the streaming device and the direction of the user's head match (step S176, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 proceeds to the process of step S178.

[0071] In step S178, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S178), and proceeds to the process of step S171.

[0072] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example when the ventilation control process is selected. In the present embodiment, the control unit 29 can select the ventilation control process. Here, the control unit 29 selects the ventilation control process based on the own voice (step S120) or the ventilation control process based on the speaker (step S130). The ventilation adjustment unit 150 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the detection result of the usage state corresponding to the ventilation control process selected by the control unit 29. Further, the processing in the figure represents an example when the processing is performed based on the ventilation setting. Here, the ventilation setting represents the preset ventilation (the state of the ventilation port). The usage state detection unit 110 detects the usage state based on this ventilation setting.

[0073] First, the control unit 29 acquires the ventilation setting (step S181). Next, the control unit 29 determines whether the ventilation setting will open the ventilation port (step S182). As a result, if the ventilation setting will open the ventilation port (step S182, Yes), the control unit 29 proceeds to the process of the ventilation control process step based on the speaker (S130). On the other hand, if the ventilation setting will not open the ventilation port (step S182, No), the control unit 29 proceeds to the ventilation control process step based on the own voice (S120).

[0074] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example when the ventilation adjustment unit 150 is controlled based on the ventilation setting when the usage state is not detected by the usage state detection unit 110. Note that the ventilation setting can be held in the storage unit 28.

[0075] First, the control unit 29 acquires the ventilation setting (step S191). Next, the ventilation control unit 120 adjusts the ventilation port 152 based on the ventilation setting acquired by the control unit 29 (step S192). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires the sound signal from the microphone 201f (step S193). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting the user's own voice from the acquired sound signal (step S194). As a result, in the case of the user's voice (step S195, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to open the ventilation port 152 (step S196), and the process proceeds to the process of step S193.

[0076] On the other hand, in step S195, if the user's voice is not detected (step S195, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S197. In step S197, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires the sound signal from the microphone 201f (step S197). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting voice from the acquired sound signal (step S198). As a result, in the case of voice other than the user's, that is, in the case of a speaker present (step S199, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to close the ventilation port 152 (step S200), and the process proceeds to the process of step S193. On the other hand, in step S199, if there is no speaker (step S199, No), the ventilation control unit 120 proceeds to the process of step S191.

[0077] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in this figure represents an example in the case of selecting processing based on priority setting. The control unit 29 selects ventilation control processing based on a preset priority setting. Note that the data of the priority setting is held in the storage unit 28.

[0078] First, the control unit 29 acquires the priority setting (step S211). Next, the control unit 29 determines whether to prioritize improving audibility (step S212). As a result, if improving audibility is prioritized (step S212, Yes), the control unit 29 proceeds to the ventilation control process based on one's own voice (S120).

[0079] On the other hand, in step S212, if improving audibility is not prioritized (step S212, No), the control unit 29 determines whether to prioritize improving comfort (step S213). As a result, if improving comfort is prioritized (step S213, Yes), the control unit 29 proceeds to the ventilation control process based on the speaker (S130).

[0080] On the other hand, in step S213, if improving comfort is not prioritized (step S213, No), the control unit 29 proceeds to the ventilation control process based on environmental sound (S150).

[0081] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the processing of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example in the case of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on temperature. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S221). Next, a signal from the sensor 23 constituting the temperature sensor is acquired (step S222). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the temperature has risen (step S223). For example, it can be determined that the temperature has risen when the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold value. As a result, if the temperature has risen (step S223, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S224), and proceeds to the process of step S222. On the other hand, in step S223, if the temperature has not risen (step S223, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S221.

[0082] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of a processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example in the case of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on humidity. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S231). Next, a signal from the sensor 23 constituting the humidity sensor is acquired (step S232). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the humidity has increased (step S233). For example, it can be determined that the humidity has increased when the humidity exceeds a predetermined threshold. As a result, when the humidity has increased (step S233, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S234), and the process proceeds to the process of step S232. On the other hand, in step S233, when the humidity has not increased (step S233, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S231.

[0083] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of a processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example in the case of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on atmospheric pressure. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S241). Next, a signal from the sensor 23 constituting the atmospheric pressure sensor is acquired (step S242). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the atmospheric pressure has increased (step S243). For example, it can be determined that the atmospheric pressure has increased when the atmospheric pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold. As a result, when the atmospheric pressure has increased (step S243, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S244), and the process proceeds to the process of step S242. On the other hand, in step S243, when the atmospheric pressure has not increased (step S243, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S241.

[0084] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the processing of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example in the case of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the user's heart rate. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S251). Next, a signal from the sensor 23 constituting the heart rate sensor is acquired (step S252). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the heart rate has increased (step S253). This can be determined, for example, when the heart rate exceeds a predetermined threshold value. As a result, when the heart rate has increased (step S253, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S254), and the process proceeds to the process of step S252. On the other hand, in step S253, when the heart rate has not increased (step S253, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S251.

[0085] FIG. 24 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the processing of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example in the case of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the user's blood pressure. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S261). Next, a signal from the sensor 23 constituting the blood pressure sensor is acquired (step S262). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the blood pressure has increased (step S263). This can be determined, for example, when the blood pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold value. As a result, when the blood pressure has increased (step S263, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S264), and the process proceeds to the process of step S262. On the other hand, in step S263, when the heart rate has not increased (step S263, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S261.

[0086] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing another example of a processing procedure of a hearing aid according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of a processing procedure of the processing of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example in the case of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on a specific sound for the user. Here, the specific sound corresponds to the sound of an intercom or an alarm sound. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S271). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a sound signal from the microphone 201f (step S272). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting a specific sound from the acquired sound signal (step S273). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether a specific sound has been detected (step S274). As a result, if a specific sound is detected (step S274, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S275), and the process proceeds to the process of step S272. On the other hand, in step S274, if a specific sound has not been detected (step S274, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S271.

[0087] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on an incoming call to the user's communication device. Here, the user's communication device corresponds to, for example, a smartphone 50. First, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S281). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires an input from the smartphone 50 via the communication unit 27 (step S282). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether it is an incoming call based on the acquired input from the smartphone 50 (step S283). As a result, in the case of an incoming call (step S283, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S284), and the process proceeds to the process of step S282. On the other hand, in step S283, if it is not an incoming call (step S283, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S281.

[0088] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. The figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. The processing in the figure represents an example of adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation adjustment unit 150 based on the user's sleep. First, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a signal from the sensor 23 constituting the sleep sensor (step S291). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines the user's sleep based on the acquired signal from the sensor 23 (step S292). As a result, in the case of the user's sleep (step S292, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 adjusts the ventilation according to the user settings (step S293), and the process proceeds to the process of step S291. On the other hand, in step S292, if the user is not sleeping (step S292, No), the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S291.

[0089] As described above, in the hearing aid 2 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the usage state detection unit 110 detects the user's usage state and controls ventilation. Thereby, ventilation can be controlled according to various states, and the convenience of the hearing aid 2 can be improved.

[0090] (2. Second Embodiment) The hearing aid 2 of the above-described first embodiment controls ventilation based on the user's usage state. In contrast, the hearing aid 2 of the second embodiment of the present disclosure is different from the above-described first embodiment in that noise reduction processing is used in combination.

[0091] [Configuration of Hearing Aid] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an imaging device according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the hearing aid 2, similar to FIG. 4. The hearing aid 2 in this figure is different from the hearing aid 2 in FIG. 4 in that a noise reduction unit 160 is arranged in the signal processing unit 21 and it further includes an inner sound collection unit 20b.

[0092] The noise reduction unit 160 performs a process of reducing noise in the sound signal. This noise reduction unit 160 can reduce noise, for example, by noise reduction processing.

[0093] [Processing of Hearing Aid] FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of the hearing aid 2. First, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a sound signal from the microphone 201f of the outer sound collection unit 20f (step S301). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting ambient sound from the acquired sound signal (step S302). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the detected ambient sound is loud (step S303). As a result, when the ambient sound is not loud (step S303, No), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S304), and the process proceeds to the process of step S301.

[0094] On the one hand, in step S303, when the ambient sound is loud (step S303, Yes), the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the low-frequency component of the ambient sound is small (step S305). As a result, when the low-frequency component is small (step S305, Yes), that is, when the mid-high frequency component is large, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S306). Thereby, it is possible to prevent the leakage of air from the ventilation path 140, improve the sealing degree, and ensure the low-frequency sound pressure. Thereafter, the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S301.

[0095] On the other hand, in step S305, when the low-frequency component of the ambient sound is not small (step S305, No), the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the mid-high frequency component of the ambient sound is small (step S307). As a result, when the mid-high frequency component is small (step S307, Yes), that is, when the low-frequency component is large, the usage state detection unit 110 causes the noise reduction unit 160 to perform noise reduction processing (step S308). Thereafter, the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S301.

[0096] On the other hand, in step S307, when the mid-high frequency component of the ambient sound is not small (step S307, No), the ambient sound is estimated to have a large signal level across the entire range from low to high frequencies. In this case, the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S309), and the usage state detection unit 110 causes the noise reduction unit 160 to perform noise reduction processing (step S310). Thereafter, the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S301. Note that noise reduction processing can also be used in combination after the ventilation port 152 is closed.

[0097] In the processing of the figure, at least one of the closing of the ventilation port 152 and the noise reduction processing is used according to the type of ambient sound. Specifically, when the ambient sound is only the surrounding voices, the ventilation port 152 is closed. On the other hand, when the ambient sound is loud, such as inside a train or a car, the closing of the ventilation port 152 and the noise reduction processing are performed. Thereby, convenience can be improved.

[0098] Figure 30 is a diagram showing another example of the processing procedure of the hearing aid according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure is a flowchart showing another example of the processing procedure of the processing of the hearing aid 2. First, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a sound signal from the microphone 201f which is an external microphone (step S321). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting ambient sound from the acquired sound signal (step S322). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether the detected ambient sound is loud (step S323). As a result, when the ambient sound is not loud (step S323, No), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of opening the ventilation port 152 (step S324), and the process proceeds to the process of step S321.

[0099] On the other hand, in step S323, when the ambient sound is loud (step S323, Yes), the ventilation control unit 120 controls the ventilation adjustment unit 150 to perform an operation of closing the ventilation port 152 (step S325), and the process proceeds to the process of step S326. In step S326, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires a sound signal from the microphone 201b which is an internal microphone (step S326). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 performs a process of detecting ambient sound from the acquired sound signal (step S327). Next, the usage state detection unit 110 determines whether noise reduction processing is necessary (step S328). This can be determined based on the frequency components of the ambient sound. As a result, when noise reduction processing is necessary (step S328, Yes), the usage state detection unit 110 causes the noise reduction unit 160 to start noise reduction processing (step S329). After that, the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the process of step S321.

[0100] On the other hand, in step S328, when noise reduction processing is not necessary (step S328, No), the usage state detection unit 110 stops the noise reduction processing of the noise reduction unit 160 (step S330). After that, the usage state detection unit 110 proceeds to the processing of step S321.

[0101] As described above, in the processing of this figure, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires the input of the external microphone (microphone 201f) and determines the level of the ambient sound. Based on the result, ventilation is adjusted. When closing the ventilation port 152 at this time, the usage state detection unit 110 acquires the input of the internal microphone (microphone 201b) and determines whether noise reduction processing is necessary based on the frequency components of the ambient sound. Compared with the processing of FIG. 29, a more accurate determination can be made to determine whether noise reduction processing is necessary after closing the ventilation port 152. Note that it is also possible to determine the opening and closing of the ventilation port 152 after starting the noise reduction processing.

[0102] Note that the effects when closing the ventilation port 152 and performing noise reduction processing are the same as those of the processing of FIG. 29. However, in the processing of FIG. 30, since determination is performed again after performing either the closing of the ventilation port 152 or the noise reduction processing, an accurate determination of necessity is possible. In addition, power consumption can be reduced, and the hearing aid 2 can be used for a long time.

[0103] Since the configuration of the hearing aid system other than this is the same as the configuration of the hearing aid system in the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the description thereof is omitted.

[0104] As described above, the hearing aid 2 of the second embodiment of the present disclosure can further improve convenience by using noise reduction processing in combination.

[0105] (4. Examples of Data Utilization) Furthermore, the data obtained in relation to the use of the hearing aid 2 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be utilized in various ways. An example thereof will be described with reference to FIG. 25.

[0106] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of data utilization. In the illustrated system, there are an edge area 1000, a cloud area 2000, and an operator area 3000. As elements within the edge area 1000, a sound-emitting device 1100, a peripheral device 1200, and a vehicle 1300 are illustrated. As an element within the cloud area 2000, a server device 2100 is illustrated. As elements within the operator area 3000, an operator 3100 and a server device 3200 are illustrated.

[0107] The sound-emitting device 1100 within the edge area 1000 is used by being worn on the user or placed near the user so as to emit sound toward the user. Specific examples of the sound-emitting device 1100 can include earphones, headsets (headphones), hearing aids, and the like. More specifically, the sound-emitting device 1100 can be a hearing aid 2.

[0108] The peripheral device 1200 and the vehicle 1300 within the edge area 1000 are devices used together with the sound-emitting device 1100, and for example, transmit signals such as content viewing sounds, call sounds, and warning sounds to the sound-emitting device 1100. The sound-emitting device 1100 outputs sound corresponding to signals from the peripheral device 1200 or the vehicle 1300 toward the user. Specific examples of the peripheral device 1200 are smartphones and the like. For example, the information processing terminal 40 described above with reference to FIG. 1 may be used as the peripheral device 1200.

[0109] Within the edge area 1000, various data regarding the use of the sound-emitting device 1100 can be acquired. This will also be described with reference to FIG. 32.

[0110] FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of data. As data that can be acquired within the edge area 1000, device data, usage history data, personalization data, biometric data, emotional data, application data, fitting data, and preference data are illustrated. Note that the data may be understood in the sense of information, and they may be appropriately read differently within a non-contradictory range. Various known methods may be used for the acquisition of the illustrated data.

[0111] The device data is data related to the sound - emitting device 1100, and includes, for example, the type data of the sound - emitting device 1100, specifically, data that identifies that the sound - emitting device 1100 is an earphone, a headphone, TWS (True Wireless Stereo), a hearing aid (CIC, ITE, RIC, etc.), etc.

[0112] The usage history data is the usage history data of the sound - emitting device 1100, and includes, for example, data such as the music exposure amount, the continuous usage time of the hearing aid, the content viewing history (viewing time, etc.). The usage history data can be used for safe listening, the conversion of TWS to a hearing aid, the replacement notice of the earwax intrusion prevention filter (not shown) provided in the hearing aid 2, etc.

[0113] The personalization data is data related to the user of the sound - emitting device 1100, and includes, for example, the user's individual head - related transfer function (HRTF: Head related transfer function), ear canal characteristics, the type of earwax, etc. Furthermore, data such as hearing ability may also be included in the personalization data.

[0114] The biological data is the biological data of the user of the sound - emitting device 1100, and includes, for example, data such as sweating, blood pressure, blood flow, heart rate, pulse, body temperature, brain waves, respiration, muscle potential, etc.

[0115] The emotional data is data indicating the emotion of the user of the sound - emitting device 1100, and includes, for example, data indicating pleasure, displeasure, etc.

[0116] The application data is data used in various applications, and includes, for example, the position of the user of the sound - emitting device 1100 (which may also be the position of the sound - emitting device 1100), schedule, user attribute information data such as age and gender, and furthermore, data such as weather, atmospheric pressure, temperature, etc. For example, the position data can be used to search for the lost sound - emitting device 1100 or to determine the timing for predicting the clogging of the above - mentioned earwax intrusion prevention filter.

[0117] The fitting data can include, for example, the adjustment parameters of the hearing aid 2 used by the user, the hearing aid gain for each frequency band set based on the user's hearing measurement results (audiogram), etc.

[0118] The preference data is data related to the user's preferences and includes, for example, data such as the preference for music listened to during driving.

[0119] In addition, data on the communication status, data on the charging status of the pronunciation device 1100, etc. may also be acquired. Depending on the bandwidth, communication status, charging status, etc., a part of the processing in the edge area 1000 may be executed by the cloud area 2000. By sharing the processing, the processing load in the edge area 1000 is reduced.

[0120] Returning to FIG. 31, for example, data such as described above is acquired within the edge area 1000 and transmitted from the pronunciation device 1100, the peripheral device 1200, or the vehicle 1300 to the server device 2100 within the cloud area 2000. The server device 2100 stores (saves, accumulates, etc.) the received data.

[0121] The operator 3100 within the operator area 3000 uses the server device 3200 to acquire data from the server device 2100 within the cloud area 2000. This enables the operator 3100 to utilize the data.

[0122] There can be various operators 3100. Specific examples of the operator 3100 include hearing aid stores, hearing aid manufacturers, content production companies, distribution operators that provide music streaming services, etc. For the purpose of distinguishing them, they are illustrated as operator 3100-A, operator 3100-B, and operator 3100-C. The corresponding server devices 3200 are illustrated as server device 3200-A, server device 3200-B, and server device 3200-C. Various data are provided to such various operators 3100, and the utilization of the data is promoted. The data provided to the operator 3100 may be, for example, data provided by means of subscription, recharging, etc.

[0123] It is also possible to provide data from the cloud region 2000 to the edge region 1000. For example, when machine learning is required to realize the processing in the edge region 1000, data for feedback, revision, etc. of the learning data is prepared by the administrator of the server device 2100 in the cloud region 2000. The prepared data is transmitted from the server device 2100 to the pronunciation device 1100, the peripheral device 1200, or the vehicle 1300 in the edge region 1000.

[0124] In the edge region 1000, when certain conditions are met, some incentive (privilege such as a premium service) may be provided to the user. Examples of the conditions are conditions such as at least some of the devices of the pronunciation device 1100, the peripheral device 1200, and the vehicle 1300 being devices provided by the same operator. If the incentive is electronically available (such as an electronic coupon), the incentive may be transmitted from the server device 2100 to the pronunciation device 1100, the peripheral device 1200, or the vehicle 1300.

[0125] (5. Examples of cooperation with other devices) In the edge region 1000, for example, using the peripheral device 1200 such as a smartphone as a hub, the pronunciation device 1100 and other devices may cooperate. An example will be described with reference to FIG. 33.

[0126] FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of cooperation with other devices. The edge area 1000, the cloud area 2000, and the operator area 3000 are connected by a network 4000 and a network 5000. A smartphone is illustrated as a peripheral device 1200 within the edge area 1000, and another device 1400 is also illustrated as an element within the edge area 1000. Note that the vehicle 1300 (FIG. 31) is not shown.

[0127] The peripheral device 1200 can communicate with the sound - emitting device 1100 and each of the other devices 1400. The communication method is not particularly limited. For example, Bluetooth LDAC, Bluetooth LE Audio described above, etc. may be used. The communication between the peripheral device 1200 and the other device 1400 may be multicast communication. Examples of multicast communication include Auracast (registered trademark), etc.

[0128] The other device 1400 is used in cooperation with the sound - emitting device 1100 via the peripheral device 1200. Specific examples of the other device 1400 include a television (hereinafter referred to as a TV), a personal computer (PC), a head - mounted display (HMD), a robot, a smart speaker, a gaming device, etc.

[0129] Even when the sound - emitting device 1100, the peripheral device 1200, and the other device 1400 satisfy a specific condition (for example, a condition that at least some of them are all provided by the same operator), an incentive may be provided to the user.

[0130] Using the peripheral device 1200 as a hub, the sound output device 1100 and other devices 1400 can be interconnected. The interconnection may be performed using various data stored in the server device 2100 within the cloud region 2000. For example, information such as user fitting data, viewing time, and hearing ability is shared between the sound output device 1100 and other devices 1400, and based on this, volume adjustment and the like of each device are interconnected. When a hearing aid 2 (HA: Hearing Aid) or a personal sound amplification product (PSAP) is worn, it is possible to automatically perform settings for the hearing aid 2 or PSAP on a television, a PC, or the like. For example, when a user using the hearing aid 2 uses other devices such as a television or a PC, a process may be performed to automatically change the settings of the other devices so that the settings, which are normally set for normal-hearing people, are changed to settings suitable for the hearing-aid user. Whether the user is using the hearing aid 2 may be determined by information indicating that the hearing aid 2 is worn (for example, wearing detection information) being automatically sent to devices such as the paired television or PC when the user wears the hearing aid 2, or by detecting that the hearing-aid user has approached other devices such as the target television or PC as a trigger. Also, by imaging the user's face with a camera or the like provided in other devices such as a television or a PC, it may be determined that the user is a hearing-aid user, or it may be determined by a method other than those described above. Further, for example, by interconnecting between the hearing aid 800, which is the sound output device 1100, and other devices 1400, the hearing aid 2 can also function as an earphone. Furthermore, when the other device 1400 includes a microphone that collects ambient sound, the earphone, which is the sound output device 1100, can also function like the hearing aid 2. In this case, the function of the hearing aid can be utilized in a style (appearance, etc.) as if listening to music. Earphones / headphones and hearing aids have many technically overlapping parts, and it is assumed that in the future, the boundary between the two will disappear and one device will have the functions of both an earphone and a hearing aid.When the hearing is normal, that is, for normal-hearing people, they can enjoy the content viewing experience by using it as a normal earphone or headset. When the hearing declines due to aging or other reasons, it can also function as a hearing aid by turning on the hearing aid function. Since the device as an earphone can also be used directly as a hearing aid, continuous and long-term use by users can be expected from the perspective of appearance and design.

[0131] Data on the user's audition history may be shared. Prolonged audition can pose a risk of future hearing loss. Notifications to the user may be made to prevent the audition time from being too long. For example, such a notification is made when the viewing time exceeds a predetermined threshold (safe listening). The notification may be made by any device within the edge area 1000.

[0132] At least some of the devices used within the edge area 1000 may be provided by different operators. Information regarding the device settings, etc. of each operator may be transmitted from the server device 3200 in the operator area 3000 to the server device 2100 in the cloud area 2000 and stored in the server device 2100. By using such information, cooperation between devices provided by different operators becomes possible.

[0133] (6. Example of Application Transition) Depending on various situations such as the user's fitting data, viewing time, hearing ability, etc. as described above, the application of the pronunciation device 1100 can transition. An example will be described with reference to FIG. 34.

[0134] FIG. 34 is a diagram showing an example of usage transition. When the user is a person with normal hearing, for example, while the user is a child and for some time after becoming an adult, the pronunciation device 1100 is used as headphones or earphones (headphones / TWS). In addition to the safe listening described above, adjustments to the equalizer, processing according to the user's behavior characteristics, location, and external environment (for example, switching to the optimal noise cancellation mode in the scenes where the user is in a restaurant and in a vehicle, etc.), collection of audio track logs, etc. are performed. Communication between devices using Auracast is also utilized.

[0135] When the user's hearing deteriorates, the hearing aid function of the pronunciation device 1100 begins to be utilized. For example, while the user is a person with mild to moderate hearing loss, the pronunciation device 1100 is used as an OTC hearing aid (Over The Counter Hearing Aid). When the user becomes a person with severe hearing loss, the pronunciation device 1100 is used as a hearing aid. Note that an OTC hearing aid is a hearing aid sold over the counter without going through an expert, and has the convenience of being able to be purchased without going through a hearing test or an expert such as an audiologist. Operations specific to hearing aids such as fitting can be performed by the user himself / herself. While the pronunciation device 1100 is used as an OCT hearing aid or a hearing aid, hearing measurement is performed, and the hearing aid function is turned on. For example, the function such as transmission of the speech flag in the embodiment described above can also be utilized. In addition, various information related to hearing (hearing big data) is collected, fitting, sound environment adaptation, remote support, etc. are performed, and furthermore, transcription is performed.

[0136] The above program may be stored in a disk device provided in a server device on a network such as the Internet so that it can be downloaded to the hearing aid 2 or the like. Further, the above-described functions may be realized by the cooperation of an OS (Operating System) and application software. In this case, the portion other than the OS may be stored in a medium and distributed, or the portion other than the OS may be stored in a server device so that it can be downloaded to a computer or the like.

[0137] Also, among the respective processes described in the above embodiment, all or part of the processes described as being automatically performed can be manually performed, or all or part of the processes described as being manually performed can be automatically performed by a known method. In addition, regarding the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above document and drawings, they can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each figure is not limited to the illustrated information.

[0138] Also, each component of each device shown in the drawings is a functional concept, and it is not necessarily physically configured as shown in the drawings. That is, the specific form of the distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the drawings, and all or part of it can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage conditions, etc. Note that the configuration by this distribution and integration may be performed dynamically.

[0139] Also, the above-described embodiments can be appropriately combined in a region where the processing contents do not conflict. Also, the respective steps shown in the flowchart of the above-described embodiment can be appropriately changed in order.

[0140] Further, for example, the present embodiment can also be implemented as any component constituting an apparatus or a system, such as a processor as a system LSI (Large Scale Integration) or the like, a module using a plurality of processors or the like, a unit using a plurality of modules or the like, a set obtained by adding other functions to the unit (that is, a part of the configuration of the apparatus).

[0141] In the present embodiment, the system means a collection of a plurality of components (apparatuses, modules (parts), etc.), and it does not matter whether all the components are in the same housing. Therefore, a plurality of apparatuses housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and one apparatus in which a plurality of modules are housed in one housing are both systems.

[0142] Further, for example, the present embodiment can take a configuration of cloud computing in which one function is shared and jointly processed by a plurality of apparatuses via a network.

[0143] As described above, each embodiment of the present disclosure has been described. However, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments as they are, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the present disclosure. Also, components across different embodiments and variations may be appropriately combined.

[0144] Note that the series of processes performed by each apparatus described in this specification may be realized using any of software, hardware, and a combination of software and hardware. The program constituting the software is stored in advance, for example, in a storage medium (non-transitory media) provided inside or outside each apparatus. Then, each program is read into the RAM when executed by a computer, for example, and executed by a processor such as a CPU.

[0145] In addition, the processes described using flowcharts and sequence diagrams in this specification do not necessarily have to be executed in the order shown in the figures. Some of the process steps may be executed in parallel. Also, additional process steps may be adopted, and some of the process steps may be omitted.

[0146] Note that the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and there may be other effects.

[0147] Note that the present technology can also adopt the following configurations. (1) An air passage that allows outside air and the ear canal to ventilate, which is arranged in a main body portion at least partially inserted into the user's ear canal, An air ventilation adjustment unit that adjusts the ventilation of the air passage, A usage state detection unit that detects the usage state of the user, An air ventilation control unit that controls the air ventilation adjustment unit based on the detection result of the usage state detection unit A hearing aid having the above. (2) Further having a control unit that selects an air ventilation control process, The air ventilation control unit controls the air ventilation adjustment unit based on the detection result of the usage state corresponding to the selected air ventilation control process The hearing aid according to (1) above. (3) The usage state detection unit detects the movement of the user as the usage state, When the detected movement of the user is a predetermined movement, the air ventilation control unit performs control to cause the air ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to (1) above. (4) The usage state detection unit detects the user's voice as the usage state, When the user's voice is detected, the air ventilation control unit performs control to cause the air ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to (1) above. (5) The usage state detection unit detects voices other than those of the user as the usage state, The ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation when voices other than those of the user are detected. The hearing aid according to (1) above. (6) The usage state detection unit further detects the direction of the user's head as the usage state, The ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation when the direction of the voice other than that of the user and the direction of the user's head match. The hearing aid according to (5) above. (7) The usage state detection unit detects the ambient sound of the user as the usage state, The ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation according to the detected ambient sound of the user. The hearing aid according to (1) above. (8) The usage state detection unit detects the sound reproduced by the streaming device used by the user as the usage state, The ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation when the sound reproduced by the streaming device used by the user is detected. The hearing aid according to (1) above. (9) The usage state detection unit further detects the direction of the user's head as the usage state, The ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation when the direction of the sound reproduced by the streaming device used by the user and the direction of the user's head match. The hearing aid according to (8) above. (10) The usage state detection unit detects the state of the outside air as the usage state, The ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation according to the detected state of the outside air. The hearing aid according to (1) above. (11) The usage state detection unit detects the user's heart rate or blood pressure as the usage state, The ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation according to the detected heart rate or blood pressure of the user The hearing aid according to (1) above. (12) The usage state detection unit detects a specific sound for the user as the usage state, When a specific sound for the user is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to (1) above. (13) The usage state detection unit detects an incoming call to the user's communication device as the usage state, When an incoming call to the user's communication device is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to (1) above. (14) The usage state detection unit detects the user's sleep as the usage state, When the user's sleep is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to (1) above. (15) It further has a noise reduction unit for reducing the noise of the external sound signal, The state detection unit further controls the noise reduction unit The hearing aid according to any one of (1) to (14) above. (16) The hearing aid according to (1) above, wherein the ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit based on a ventilation setting when the usage state is not detected by the usage state detection unit (17) The hearing aid according to (2) above, wherein the control unit selects the ventilation control process based on a priority setting (18) The hearing aid according to (17) above, wherein the control unit selects at least one ventilation control process among the ventilation control process based on the user's own voice, the ventilation control process based on the speaker, and the ventilation control process based on the ambient sound according to the priority setting. (19) Adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation path that ventilates the outside air and the external auditory canal arranged in the earpiece inserted into the user's external auditory canal, Detecting the usage state of the user, Controlling the adjustment of the ventilation based on the detected usage state A control method including the above. (20) A ventilation adjustment procedure for adjusting the ventilation of the ventilation path that ventilates the outside air and the external auditory canal arranged in the earpiece inserted into the user's external auditory canal, A usage state detection procedure for detecting the usage state of the user, A ventilation control procedure for controlling the adjustment of the ventilation based on the detected usage state A program including the above.

Description of Signs

[0148] 2 Hearing aid 10 Main body part 20 Sound collection part 20b Inner sound collection part 20f Outer sound collection part 22 Output part 40 Information processing terminal 50 Smartphone 110 Usage state detection part 120 Ventilation control part 140 Ventilation path 150 Ventilation adjustment part 152 Ventilation port 160 Noise reduction part 201, 201f, 201b Microphone 222 Receiver

Claims

1. An air passage that allows outside air and the ear canal to ventilate, which is disposed in a main body portion at least partially inserted into the user's ear canal; A ventilation adjustment unit that adjusts the ventilation of the air passage; A usage state detection unit that detects the usage state of the user; A ventilation control unit that controls the ventilation adjustment unit based on the detection result of the usage state detection unit A hearing aid having the above components.

2. Further comprising a control unit that selects a ventilation control process, The ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit based on the detection result of the usage state corresponding to the selected ventilation control process The hearing aid according to claim 1.

3. The usage state detection unit detects the movement of the user as the usage state, When the detected movement of the user is a predetermined movement, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to claim 1.

4. The usage state detection unit detects the user's voice as the usage state, When the user's voice is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to claim 1.

5. The usage state detection unit detects the voice of a person other than the user as the usage state, When the voice of a person other than the user is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to claim 1.

6. The usage state detection unit further detects the direction of the user's head as the usage state, When the direction of the voice of a person other than the user and the direction of the user's head match, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to claim 5.

7. The usage state detection unit detects the ambient sound of the user as the usage state, The ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation according to the detected ambient sound of the user The hearing aid according to claim 1.

8. The usage state detection unit detects the sound reproduced by the streaming device used by the user as the usage state, When the sound reproduced by the streaming device used by the user is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation The hearing aid according to claim 1.

9. The usage state detection unit further detects the direction of the user's head as the usage state, When the direction of the sound reproduced by the streaming device used by the user and the direction of the user's head match, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation. The hearing aid according to claim 8.

10. The usage state detection unit detects the state of the outside air as the usage state. The ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation according to the detected state of the outside air. The hearing aid according to claim 1.

11. The usage state detection unit detects the user's heart rate or blood pressure as the usage state. The ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation according to the detected user's heart rate or blood pressure. The hearing aid according to claim 1.

12. The usage state detection unit detects a specific sound for the user as the usage state. When a specific sound for the user is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation. The hearing aid according to claim 1.

13. The usage state detection unit detects an incoming call to the user's communication device as the usage state. When an incoming call to the user's communication device is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation. The hearing aid according to claim 1.

14. The usage state detection unit detects the user's sleep as the usage state. When the user's sleep is detected, the ventilation control unit performs control to cause the ventilation adjustment unit to adjust the ventilation. The hearing aid according to claim 1.

15. It further has a noise reduction unit that reduces the noise of the external sound signal generated by the microphone arranged in the main body unit. The usage state detection unit further controls the noise reduction unit. The hearing aid according to claim 1.

16. The hearing aid according to claim 1, wherein when the usage state is not detected by the usage state detection unit, the ventilation control unit controls the ventilation adjustment unit based on the ventilation setting.

17. The hearing aid according to claim 2, wherein the control unit selects the ventilation control process based on a priority setting.

18. The hearing aid according to claim 17, wherein the control unit selects at least one ventilation control process among the ventilation control process based on the user's own voice, the ventilation control process based on the speaker, and the ventilation control process based on the ambient sound according to the priority setting.

19. Adjusting the ventilation of the outside air and the ventilation path that ventilates the external auditory canal, which are arranged in a main body portion at least partially inserted into the external auditory canal of the user; Detecting the usage state of the user; Controlling the adjustment of the ventilation based on the detected usage state A control method including the above.

20. A ventilation adjustment procedure for adjusting the ventilation of the outside air and the ventilation path that ventilates the external auditory canal, which are arranged in a main body portion at least partially inserted into the external auditory canal of the user; A usage state detection procedure for detecting the usage state of the user; A ventilation control procedure for controlling the adjustment of the ventilation based on the detected usage state A program including the above.

Images