Information processing device, method, and program

Abstract

To reduce the user's operational burden during hearing tests. [Solution] The information processing device includes a control unit. Based on the first test value of the user's hearing, which has been tested for some of the multiple frequencies, the control unit changes the initial hearing value, which is set in advance for the remaining frequencies of the multiple frequencies, to an estimated initial value.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus, method, and program.

Background Art

[0002] Based on the results of a hearing test for a user, parameters of a hearing aid device (for example, the amplification degree for each frequency) are set (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The hearing aid device is, for example, a hearing aid, a sound collector, or a hearing amplifier.

[0003] A hearing aid device having a self-fitting function (for example, an OTC (Over The Counter) hearing aid) is known. For example, a user can operate an application linked to such a hearing aid device using a terminal device such as a smartphone to perform a hearing test by himself / herself and set the hearing aid device based on the test results.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In a hearing test, a user operates a terminal device to gradually change the sound pressure level of a hearing test sound from an initial sound pressure level to an appropriate sound pressure level that seems appropriate to the user. The user performs such an operation for all frequencies subject to the hearing test. The greater the deviation between the initial sound pressure level and the appropriate sound pressure level, the greater the number of operations (in other words, the number of times the sound pressure level of the hearing test sound is changed). For one frequency, dozens of operations may be required. In order to complete the hearing test for all frequencies, hundreds of operations may be required.

[0006] In view of the above circumstances, the embodiments of this disclosure aim to provide an information processing device, method, and program that can reduce the operational burden on the user during hearing tests. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An information processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a control unit. Based on a first test value of the user's hearing, which has been tested for some of the frequencies among the plurality of frequencies, the control unit changes the initial hearing value, which is set in advance for the remaining frequencies among the plurality of frequencies, to an estimated initial value. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, an information processing device, method, and program are provided that can reduce the operational burden on the user during a hearing test. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of a system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This figure shows an overview of a hearing test for self-fitting in one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows an overview of a hearing test for self-fitting in one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows the process performed by the information processing device in one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This is the subroutine for the first inspection process (steps S102, S202) in Figure 5. [Figure 7] This is the subroutine for the second inspection process (steps S103, S203) in Figure 5. [Figure 8] This is the subroutine for the estimation process (step S401) shown in Figure 7. [Figure 9]This figure shows an example of a screen displayed on an application operated by a user in one embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 10] This figure supplements the explanation of the estimation process (step S401) in Figure 7. [Figure 11] This is a flowchart showing the process performed by the information processing device in Modification 1 of this disclosure. [Figure 12] This graph schematically shows the hearing levels of people by age and gender. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following description relates to an information processing apparatus, method, and program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Common or corresponding elements are denoted by the same or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0011] As shown in Figure 1, System 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an information processing device 10 and a hearing assistance device 20. The information processing device 10 and the hearing assistance device 20 are connected to communicate with each other using wireless communication standards such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, and IR (infrared) communication.

[0012] The information processing device 10 is an example of a computer. The information processing device 10 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a PC (Personal Computer), or a dedicated device for hearing measurement. For example, a smartphone can operate as the information processing device 10 by downloading and installing an application App (an example of a program) that performs various processes according to one embodiment of this disclosure from an app store. In this case, the user U can operate the information processing device 10 by, for example, performing touch operations on a GUI (Graphical User Interface) screen on which various components are laid out. The application App may also be a server-side program. For example, the user U may access the server using a web browser on a PC and operate the application App.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing apparatus 10 includes a processor 11, a memory 12, a storage 13, a communication interface 14, an input device 15, and an output device 16. Each part of the information processing apparatus 10 is connected via a bus 17. Note that FIG. 2 only shows an example of the configuration of the information processing apparatus 10. The information processing apparatus 10 may include other elements not shown in FIG. 2. The information processing apparatus 10 may be configured not to include some of the elements shown in FIG. 2.

[0014] The processor 11 reads out various programs and various data stored in the storage 13. The memory 12 is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory). The processor 11 comprehensively controls the information processing apparatus 10 by using the memory 12 as a work area.

[0015] The processor 11 is, for example, a single processor or a multi-processor and includes at least one processor. When configured to include a plurality of processors, the processor 11 may be packaged as a single device, or may be composed of a plurality of physically separated devices within the information processing apparatus 10. The processor 11 may be called, for example, a control unit, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a MPU (Micro Processor Unit), or a MCU (Micro Controller Unit).

[0016] The storage 13 is, for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM), a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or a SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage 13 stores various programs and various data. For example, when the processor 11 executes the application App stored in the storage 13, various processes according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (such as setting the amplification degree for each frequency in the hearing aid device 20) are executed.

[0017] The communication interface 14 is a communication interface with an external device. The information processing apparatus 10 is communicatively connected to an external device (such as a hearing aid device 20, a PC, etc.) via the communication interface 14. The input device 15 includes, for example, a touch panel, operation buttons, a microphone, a camera, sensors, etc. The input device 15 may include a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The output device 16 includes a display, a speaker, etc. The display is, for example, a touch panel display. The display is, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or an LED (Light Emitting Diode) display.

[0018] In the present embodiment, the hearing aid device 20 is a hearing aid. The user U uses the hearing aid device 20 by wearing it on the right ear or the left ear diagnosed with hearing loss, for example. When the user U is diagnosed with hearing loss in both ears, the user U uses each of a pair of hearing aid devices 20 by wearing them on each ear.

[0019] Generally, hearing tests are performed targeting 7 to 9 frequencies. As mentioned above, in conventional self-fitting, hundreds of operations (e.g., taps) on a smartphone or similar device were sometimes required to complete the hearing test for all target frequencies. Therefore, the operational burden on the user U during the hearing test was significant. In contrast, in this embodiment, the user U can perform self-fitting of the hearing assistance device 20 with minimal operational burden by operating the application App installed on the information processing device 10.

[0020] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate the overview of the hearing test for self-fitting in this embodiment. In the graphs of Figures 3 and 4, the horizontal axis represents the frequency of the hearing test sound (unit: Hz). The vertical axis represents the reproduced sound pressure (sound pressure level of the hearing test sound (unit: dBSPL)). The "initial value" indicated on the vertical axis represents a sound pressure level determined, for example, based on the average hearing of an assumed user who will use a device equipped with this function. Note that the initial value given here is merely an example. There are various methods for determining the initial value.

[0021] The graphs in Figures 3 and 4 may be replaced with audiograms. In this case, the vertical axis is replaced with hearing level (unit: dBHL). Sound pressure level (unit: dBSPL) and hearing level (unit: dBHL) are mutually convertible. Therefore, in the hearing test according to this embodiment, the test results (test values) may be sound pressure levels for each frequency, or hearing levels for each frequency.

[0022] The more frequencies tested, the more accurately the amplification level of the hearing aid 20 can be set. However, in conventional systems, the number of user operations required simply increases with the number of frequencies tested. In contrast, in this embodiment, the increase in the number of user operations associated with an increase in the number of frequencies tested is kept to a minimum. Therefore, in this embodiment, hearing tests are performed using a relatively large number of nine frequencies (specifically, 200Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 1.5kHz, 2kHz, 3kHz, 4kHz, 6kHz, and 8kHz). In other words, in this embodiment, the amplification level of the hearing aid 20 can be set accurately while minimizing the user's operational burden.

[0023] As shown in the upper and middle diagrams of Figure 3, in this embodiment, hearing tests are performed for three of the nine frequencies (500 Hz, 2 kHz, and 6 kHz) (see black circle plots). For convenience, these three frequencies are referred to as "measured test frequencies." The result of the user U's hearing test for the measured test frequencies is the set sound pressure for those frequencies and is referred to as the "first test value."

[0024] Furthermore, any reference to elements using designations such as “First,” “Second,” etc., as used in this disclosure does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations are used for convenience to distinguish between two or more elements. Therefore, references to the First and Second elements do not imply, for example, that only two elements are adopted, or that the First element must precede the Second element.

[0025] In a hearing test for actual test frequencies, for example, the operation screen shown in Figure 1 is displayed on the application App of the information processing device 10. During the hearing test, the hearing aid 20 worn on the user U's ear emits a sound (hearing test sound) of the corresponding frequency according to instructions from the application App.

[0026] In an audiometry test for the measured test frequency, an audiometry tone with an initial sound pressure level (see the black circle plot in the upper part of Figure 3) is first played. If User U cannot hear the audiometry tone, they tap the "cannot hear" button B1. This plays an audiometry tone with a sound pressure level increased by one step (for example, equivalent to 5 dBHL). If User U can hear the audiometry tone, they tap the "can hear" button B2. This plays an audiometry tone with a sound pressure level decreased by one step (for example, equivalent to 5 dBHL).

[0027] User U taps either the "cannot hear" button B1 or the "can hear" button B2 until the appropriate sound pressure level is reached (i.e., until the audiometry sound that was previously inaudible becomes audible). Once the appropriate sound pressure level is reached, User U taps the "next" button B3. As a result, the processor 11 running the application App associates the measured test frequency and sound pressure level at that time and records them, for example, in storage 13. That is, the processor 11 records the first test value (the set sound pressure relative to the measured test frequency).

[0028] In the example in Figure 3, user U taps the "Hear" button B2 for 500Hz, one of the measured test frequencies. After 7 taps, the audiometry sound is no longer audible, so user U taps the "Don't Hear" button B1 once and then the "Next" button B3. As a result, a sound pressure level 6 levels lower than the initial value (i.e., the lowest sound pressure level user U can hear) is recorded corresponding to 500Hz (see the black circle plot corresponding to 500Hz). Also, user U taps the "Don't Hear" button B1 for 2kHz, another measured test frequency. After 2 taps, the audiometry sound is heard, so user U taps the "Next" button B3. As a result, a sound pressure level 2 levels higher than the initial value is recorded corresponding to 2kHz (see the black circle plot corresponding to 2kHz). Furthermore, user U taps the "cannot hear" button B1 for 6kHz, one of the measured test frequencies. After tapping it six times, the user hears the audiometry sound and taps the "next" button B3. As a result, a sound pressure level six levels higher than the initial value is recorded corresponding to 6kHz (see the black circle plot corresponding to 6kHz). In this way, the processor 11 running the application App obtains the first test value of user U's hearing for three measured test frequencies (an example of some of the frequencies among several) (i.e., the sound pressure level for each of the three measured test frequencies).

[0029] The processor 11 running the application App changes the initial hearing values ​​of user U for the remaining frequencies (i.e., 200Hz, 1kHz, 1.5kHz, 3kHz, 4kHz, 8kHz) to estimated initial values ​​based on the first test values ​​and user U's characteristic information, and sets the second test values ​​based on user U's actions during the hearing test based on these estimated initial values. For convenience, the remaining six frequencies are referred to as "untested frequencies." The result of user U's hearing test for the untested frequencies is the set sound pressure for those frequencies, and is referred to as the "second test value." The estimated initial value is a value that is tentatively set from the first test value and user characteristic information before performing the second test described below. The estimated initial value indicates the sound pressure level for the untested frequencies (i.e., the sound pressure level that user U is estimated to be able to hear). The second test value is the result obtained by performing a hearing test from the estimated initial value sound pressure level.

[0030] Figure 12 schematically illustrates the trend in hearing. In Figure 12, the vertical axis represents hearing level (unit: dBHL), and the horizontal axis represents frequency (unit: Hz). For example, as shown in Figure 12, hearing declines with age. Also, as shown in Figure 12, there are gender differences, such as the age-related decline in high-frequency hearing being greater in men than in women, and the decline in low-frequency hearing being greater in women than in men among the elderly. Depending on the user's pre-existing medical condition, the decline in low-frequency hearing may be greater than that of high-frequency hearing, and the mid-range may be more difficult to hear than the low or high-frequency ranges.

[0031] Therefore, when the processor 11 running the application App obtains estimated initial values, it refers to the characteristic information of user U. The characteristic information of user U includes at least one of age, gender, and medical history. This characteristic information is, for example, pre-registered in the application App. Here, in Figure 4, the square plot shows, for example, the standard sound pressure level for user U's age. The square plot may also show the standard sound pressure level for user U's gender. The square plot may also show the standard sound pressure level for user U's age and gender.

[0032] In the example shown in Figure 4, the sound pressure level for each measured test frequency, indicated by the first test value (see black circle plot), is higher than the standard sound pressure level for user U's age (see square plot). Therefore, the processor 11 running the application App provisionally sets the estimated initial value of the sound pressure level for each untested frequency to a value higher than the standard sound pressure level for user U's age, as shown in the upper part of Figure 4.

[0033] For example, at the measured test frequency (500Hz), the first test value is two levels higher than the standard sound pressure level. Therefore, at the untested frequencies adjacent to the measured test frequency (500Hz) (200Hz, 1kHz), the estimated initial value is tentatively set to a value two levels higher than the standard sound pressure level. For example, at the measured test frequency (2kHz), the first test value is three levels higher than the standard sound pressure level. Therefore, at the untested frequencies adjacent to the measured test frequency (2Hz) (1.5kHz, 3kHz), the estimated initial value is tentatively set to a value three levels higher than the standard sound pressure level. For example, at the measured test frequency (6kHz), the first test value is two levels higher than the standard sound pressure level. Therefore, at the untested frequencies adjacent to the measured test frequency (6kHz) (4kHz, 8kHz), the estimated initial value is tentatively set to a value two levels higher than the standard sound pressure level.

[0034] In other words, the processor 11 running the application App changes the initial hearing values ​​(e.g., sound pressure levels for each of the three measured test frequencies) of the user U who has undergone a hearing test for some of the multiple frequencies (e.g., three measured test frequencies) to estimated initial values, based on the first test values ​​of the user U's hearing (e.g., sound pressure levels for each of the three measured test frequencies). These initial values ​​are set based on the initial hearing values ​​(e.g., sound pressure levels determined based on the average hearing of a user expected to use a device equipped with this function) for the remaining frequencies among the multiple frequencies (e.g., six untested frequencies).

[0035] The processor 11, which runs the application App, sequentially displays several questions on the screen of the information processing device 10, such as medical history, lifestyle, and work environment. As shown in the lower part of Figure 4, the processor 11 adjusts the estimated initial values ​​of the sound pressure level for each pre-set untested frequency according to the user U's answers to the above questions. For example, if user U has otitis media, the processor 11 raises the sound pressure level in the low-frequency range, such as 200 Hz, by at least one step, according to the degree of symptoms estimated from the answer. In this way, the sound pressure level for untested frequencies for which actual hearing tests have not been performed is interpolated. In the example in the lower part of Figure 4, the processor 11 lowers the sound pressure levels of 200 Hz, 1.5 Hz, and 3 kHz by one step based on medical history, lifestyle, work environment, etc.

[0036] The adjusted estimated initial value is an estimated value of the sound pressure level for the untested frequencies. That is, the processor 11 running the application App estimates the estimated initial value (i.e., the sound pressure level for each of the six untested frequencies) based on the first test value (i.e., the sound pressure level for each of the three measured test frequencies) and the user U's characteristic information (such as age).

[0037] The processor 11 may determine these estimated initial values ​​as the set sound pressure for the untested frequencies and record them in the storage 13. In other words, the processor 11 may record these estimated initial values ​​as second test values ​​in the storage 13. In this case, the user U's operation required to set the sound pressure level for the untested frequencies is virtually zero. Therefore, the user U's operational burden is reduced compared to the conventional method.

[0038] To set the sound pressure level for untested frequencies with greater accuracy, the hearing test may be performed starting from an estimated initial value. Even in hearing tests for untested frequencies, the operation screen exemplified in Figure 1 is displayed on the application App of the information processing device 10. During the hearing test, the hearing aid 20 worn on the user U's ear emits a sound (hearing test sound) of the corresponding frequency according to instructions from the application App.

[0039] In hearing tests for untested frequencies, the hearing test sound is initially emitted at an estimated initial sound pressure level. Because the estimated initial value is set based on the set sound pressure for the measured test frequency and the user's characteristic information, the discrepancy between the estimated initial sound pressure level and the appropriate sound pressure level tends to be small. The user can find the appropriate sound pressure level with fewer operations. Therefore, in this case as well, the user's operational burden is reduced compared to conventional methods.

[0040] Thus, the processor 11 running the application App sets (for example, confirms) a second test value (i.e., the sound pressure level for each of the six untested frequencies) based on the user U's actions (such as tapping the "cannot hear" button B1 or the "can hear" button B2) after undergoing a hearing test based on estimated initial values ​​(for example, a hearing test using estimated initial values ​​of sound pressure levels for each of the six untested frequencies).

[0041] In the examples in Figures 3 and 4, the measured test frequencies are 500 Hz, 2 kHz, and 6 kHz, and are set distributed across the low, mid, and high frequency ranges, respectively. The low frequency range is, for example, 20 Hz to 600 Hz. The mid frequency range is, for example, 800 Hz to 2 kHz. The high frequency range is, for example, 4 kHz to 20 kHz. Note that the values ​​for each frequency range listed here are just examples. By discretely arranging the measured test frequencies, the accuracy of the estimated initial value of the sound pressure level for untested frequencies can be balanced across the entire frequency range. Thus, the measured test frequencies (an example of some frequencies among multiple frequencies) include, for example, at least one frequency in the low frequency range, at least one frequency in the mid frequency range, and at least one frequency in the high frequency range.

[0042] The frequency range of typical everyday conversation is, for example, 250Hz to 4000Hz. Therefore, it is desirable that at least one of the measured test frequencies falls within this range. The number of measured test frequencies is not limited to three. To further reduce the operational burden on user U, there may be one or two measured test frequencies.

[0043] Figures 5 to 10 illustrate the process by which the processor 11 runs an application App in the information processing device 10. For example, when the application App is launched, the execution of the process shown in Figure 5 begins. When this process begins, guidance prompting user U to put on the hearing assistance device 20 is displayed on the application App.

[0044] The steps in the flowcharts shown in the embodiments of this disclosure may be rearranged to the extent that they do not contradict each other. For example, the embodiments of this disclosure present the processing of various steps in an exemplary order, but are not limited to this order. Furthermore, the steps in the flowcharts shown in the embodiments of this disclosure may be executed in parallel or in parallel to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

[0045] As shown in Figure 5, the processor 11 asks the user U which ear to test (step S101). For example, as shown in screen example A1 in Figure 9, a screen with ear selection buttons B4 and B5 and a complete button B6 is displayed on the application App. When user U taps ear selection button B4, the processor 11 recognizes the right ear as the target for the hearing test (step S101: YES) and performs the first test (step S102). When user U taps ear selection button B5, the processor 11 recognizes the left ear as the target for the hearing test (step S101: NO) and performs the first test (step S202). When user U taps the complete button B6, the processor 11 terminates the processing of this flowchart.

[0046] The subroutines for the first examination process (steps S102 and S202) will be explained using Figure 6. The only difference between the process in step S102 and the process in step S202 is whether the hearing test is performed on the right ear or the left ear. The content of the processes in steps S102 and S202 is the same, as shown in Figure 6.

[0047] As shown in Figure 6, the processor 11 resets the variable N to zero (step S301). The processor 11 increments the variable N by 1 (step S302). The variable N represents the frequency to be tested. For example, when the value of variable N is 1, the frequency to be tested is 2kHz. When the value of variable N is 2, the frequency to be tested is 6kHz. When the value of variable N is 3, the frequency to be tested is 500Hz. In this embodiment, the hearing test is performed in the order of mid-range (2kHz), high-range (6kHz), and low-range (500Hz). However, the order of the hearing test is not limited to this. The hearing test may be performed in a different order (for example, in the order of low-range, mid-range, and high-range).

[0048] The processor 11 sets the initial sound pressure of the audiometry sound at the measured test frequency indicated by the variable N (step S303). The initial sound pressure for the measured test frequency is set to a standard value, for example, the black dot plot in the upper panel of Figure 3.

[0049] The processor 11 displays a screen for inputting the user U's response to the hearing test sound (see example screen A2 in Figure 9), and instructs the hearing aid 20 to emit the hearing test sound at the measured test frequency indicated by variable N at the current sound pressure level (the initial sound pressure set in step S303 immediately after updating variable N) (step S304). Upon receiving this instruction, the hearing aid 20 emits the hearing test sound at the measured test frequency indicated by variable N at the current sound pressure level.

[0050] User U responds to the audiometry sounds emitted by the hearing aid 20. Specifically, if User U cannot hear the audiometry sound, they tap the "cannot hear" button B1. If User U can hear the audiometry sound, they tap the "can hear" button B2. When the audiometry sound reaches the appropriate sound pressure level (for example, when the audiometry sound that was previously inaudible becomes audible), User U taps the "next" button B3.

[0051] If the "Can't Hear" button B1 is tapped (step S305: Can't Hear), the processor 11 increases the sound pressure level of the audiometry sound at the measured test frequency indicated by variable N by one level (step S306). If the "Can Hear" button B2 is tapped (step S305: Can Hear), the processor 11 decreases the sound pressure level of the audiometry sound at the measured test frequency indicated by variable N by one level (step S307). The processor 11 instructs the hearing aid 20 to emit the audiometry sound at the measured test frequency indicated by variable N at the updated sound pressure level (step S304). Upon receiving this instruction, the hearing aid 20 emits the audiometry sound at the measured test frequency indicated by variable N at the updated sound pressure level. This series of processes, which observes the user U's response to the audiometry sound, is repeated until the "Next" button B3 is tapped.

[0052] If the "Next" button B3 is tapped (step S305: Next), the processor 11 associates the measured test frequency indicated by variable N with the current sound pressure level and records it in storage 13 (step S308). The processor 11 determines whether variable N is valued at 3 or not (step S309). If variable N is valued at 3 (step S309: YES), the sound pressure levels have been recorded for all three measured test frequencies (500Hz, 2kHz, 6kHz). Therefore, the processor 11 terminates this subroutine. If variable N is not valued at 3 (step S309: NO), there are still measured test frequencies for which the sound pressure level has not been recorded. Therefore, the processor 11 returns to the process in step S302 and processes the next measured test frequency.

[0053] After executing the first test process (step S102), processor 11 executes the second test process (step S103). Similarly, after executing the first test process (step S202), processor 11 executes the second test process (step S203). The subroutines for the second test process (steps S103, S203) will be explained using Figures 7 and 8. The only difference between the process in step S103 and the process in step S203 is whether the hearing test is performed on the right ear or the left ear. The content of the processes in steps S103 and S203 is the same, as shown in Figure 7.

[0054] The processor 11 estimates the initial sound pressure for untested frequencies (step S401). The subroutine for the estimation process shown in Figure 8 will be explained with reference to Figure 10. Note that the estimation process described here differs from the estimation process described using Figure 4. That is, various methods can be employed to estimate the initial sound pressure for untested frequencies.

[0055] As shown in the upper part of Figure 10, processor 11 connects the black circle plots of the measured test frequencies (500 Hz, 2 kHz, 6 kHz) using linear interpolation (step S501). As shown by the white circle plots in the upper part of Figure 10, processor 11 plots the provisional estimated initial values ​​at the positions on the four untested frequencies (1 kHz, 1.5 kHz, 3 kHz, 4 kHz) where the interpolation lines intersect (step S502). Note that the interpolation process is not limited to linear interpolation; curve interpolation (higher-order spline curves, B-spline curves, Lagrangian interpolation, etc.) may also be applied.

[0056] As shown in the upper panel of Figure 10, the interpolation lines do not intersect at the untested frequencies at both ends (200Hz, 8kHz). Therefore, in step S502, the estimated initial values ​​for these two untested frequencies cannot be plotted. Thus, in step S503, the processor 11 plots provisional estimated initial values ​​at the untested frequencies at both ends (200Hz, 8kHz) based on the user's characteristic information (age, gender, etc.) (see the middle panel of Figure 10).

[0057] For example, the processor 11 plots the standard sound pressure levels for user U's age at both ends of the untested frequencies (200Hz, 8kHz) as provisional estimated initial values. The processor 11 may further adjust the provisional estimated initial value for 200Hz according to the sound pressure level set at the adjacent measured test frequency (500Hz). For example, if the sound pressure level set at the measured test frequency (500Hz) is more than a predetermined value higher than the standard sound pressure level at 500Hz for user U's age, the processor 11 sets the estimated initial value for 200Hz to be more than a predetermined value higher than the standard sound pressure level at 200Hz. For example, if the sound pressure level set at the measured test frequency (500Hz) is more than a predetermined value lower than the standard sound pressure level at 500Hz for user U's age, the processor 11 sets the estimated initial value for 200Hz to be more than a predetermined value lower than the standard sound pressure level at 200Hz. The same applies to 8kHz. The processor 11 may adjust the provisional estimated initial value for 8kHz according to the sound pressure level set at the adjacent measured test frequency (6kHz). For example, if the sound pressure level set at the measured test frequency (6kHz) is more than a predetermined value higher than the standard sound pressure level at 6kHz for user U's age, the processor 11 will set the estimated initial value for 8kHz to be more than a predetermined value higher than the standard sound pressure level at 8kHz. For example, if the sound pressure level set at the measured test frequency (6kHz) is more than a predetermined value lower than the standard sound pressure level at 6kHz for user U's age, the processor 11 will set the estimated initial value for 8kHz to be lower than the standard sound pressure level at 8kHz.

[0058] In step S503, instead of plotting based on user U's characteristic information, the processor 11 may extend the interpolation line calculated in step S501 to the positions of two untested frequencies (200Hz, 8kHz) and plot the estimated initial values ​​at the positions on the two untested frequencies (200Hz, 8kHz) where the extended interpolation line intersects. In this case, the processor 11 can determine the estimated initial values ​​for all untested frequencies without using user U's characteristic information. That is, the processor 11 can change the preset initial hearing values ​​for the remaining untested frequencies to estimated initial values ​​based on the first test value of the measured test frequency.

[0059] In step S504, the processor 11 further adjusts the provisional estimated initial values ​​for each untested frequency (200Hz, 1kHz, 1.5kHz, 3kHz, 4kHz, 8kHz) based on user U's characteristic information (answers to several questions such as medical history, lifestyle, and work environment) to determine the estimated initial values ​​(see the lower diagram in Figure 10). For example, if user U has a chronic condition that makes it difficult to hear in the mid-range, the processor 11 increases the sound pressure level for the mid-range. It is assumed that questions such as medical history, lifestyle, and work environment have been answered in advance on the application app, for example, immediately after launching the application app.

[0060] When the processor 11 estimates the initial sound pressure for the untested frequency in step S401, it performs the same processing as in steps S302 to S309 in Figure 6 (steps S402 to S409). Specifically, the processor 11 increments the variable N by 1 (step S402) and sets the initial sound pressure of the audiometry sound for the untested frequency indicated by the variable N to the estimated initial value estimated in step S401 (step S403).

[0061] The variable N with values ​​from 4 to 9 represents the untested frequencies: 200 Hz, 1 kHz, 1.5 kHz, 3 kHz, 4 kHz, and 8 kHz, respectively. Since the audiometry sound can be started at an estimated initial value (i.e., the appropriate sound pressure level or a sound pressure level close to the appropriate sound pressure level), user U can find the appropriate sound pressure level with fewer operations (steps S405 to S408). Therefore, the operational burden on user U is reduced.

[0062] In step S409, the processor 11 determines whether the variable N is valued at 9. If the variable N is valued at 9 (step S409: YES), then the sound pressure level has been recorded for all six measured test frequencies (200Hz, 1kHz, 1.5kHz, 3kHz, 4kHz, 8kHz). Therefore, the processor 11 terminates this subroutine. If the variable N is not valued at 9 (step S409: NO), then there are untested frequencies for which the sound pressure level has not been recorded. Therefore, the processor 11 returns to the process in step S402 and processes the next untested frequency.

[0063] After executing the second test process (steps S103, S203), the processor 11 asks the user U whether the hearing test is complete (step S104). For example, as shown in screen example A3 in Figure 9, a screen with a complete button B6 and a switch button B7 is displayed on the application App. When the user U performs a switch operation (i.e., taps the switch button B7) (step S104: NO), the processor 11 returns to step S101 and performs a hearing test on the untested ear.

[0064] When user U taps the complete button B6 (step S104: YES), processor 11 generates setting data (step S105). Specifically, processor 11 converts the set sound pressure associated with each measured frequency (200Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 1.5kHz, 2kHz, 3kHz, 4kHz, 6kHz, 8kHz) recorded in storage 13 into amplification in the hearing aid 20. That is, processor 11 generates data that associates each measured frequency with its amplification. Processor 11 converts higher set sound pressure to a larger amplification. In other words, processor 11 converts lower set sound pressure to a smaller amplification. Thus, processor 11 running application App determines the amplification of each frequency (each example of multiple frequencies) in the hearing aid 20 based on the first test value (i.e., the sound pressure level for each of the three measured test frequencies) and the second test value (i.e., the sound pressure level for each of the six untested frequencies).

[0065] The processor 11 transmits the configuration data generated in step S105 to the hearing aid device 20 (step S106). The hearing aid device 20 sets the amplification level for each frequency (200Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 1.5kHz, 2kHz, 3kHz, 4kHz, 6kHz, 8kHz) according to the received configuration data. As a result, the hearing aid device 20 amplifies human speech and other sounds to a sound pressure level suitable for user U, thereby assisting user U's hearing. The processor 11 can also transmit the configuration data generated in step S105 not only to the hearing aid device 20, but also to a shared destination (such as a cloud server or PC) that user U has specified in advance on the application App. In other words, the processor 11 can automatically back up this data.

[0066] The above is a description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present disclosure. For example, embodiments of the present application include combinations of embodiments explicitly shown in the specification or obvious embodiments as appropriate.

[0067] Using Figure 11, the process that the processor 11 runs when the application App is launched will be explained. For example, when the application App is launched, the execution of the process shown in Figure 11 begins.

[0068] In Modification 1, the processor 11 changes the initial values ​​of all frequencies (specifically, 200Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 1.5kHz, 2kHz, 3kHz, 4kHz, 6kHz, and 8kHz) to estimated initial values ​​based on the user U's characteristic information (step S601). For example, the processor 11 changes the sound pressure level of each frequency from its initial value to the sound pressure level shown by the square plot in Figure 4.

[0069] At this point, when user U completes the operation (for example, by tapping the complete button B6) (step S602: YES), processor 11 generates setting data (step S603) and transmits the generated setting data to the hearing aid device 20 (step S604). As a result, the amplification of each frequency is set in the hearing aid device 20 according to standard setting data corresponding to user U's characteristic information. In this case, processor 11 can set estimated initial values ​​for all frequencies based on user U's characteristic information without using the first test value (i.e., the sound pressure level for each of the measured test frequencies). Since the hearing test can be omitted, the operational burden on user U is greatly reduced.

[0070] In the modified example 1, user U can obtain more accurate setting data by performing an audiometry test for at least one frequency. In this case, the processor 11 performs a first test similar to step S102 in Figure 5 for the right ear (step S602: NO, step S605: YES, step S606), and also performs a first test similar to step S202 in Figure 5 for the left ear (step S602: NO, step S605: NO, step S608).

[0071] In Modification 1, for example, the processor 11 performs an audiometry test on the right ear in one first test (step S606) for one frequency corresponding to one variable N. After each first test (step S606), the processor 11 corrects the estimated initial value of each frequency corresponding to the right ear (step S607). The processor 11 also performs an audiometry test on the left ear in one first test (step S608) for one frequency corresponding to one variable N. After each first test (step S608), the processor 11 corrects the estimated initial value of each frequency corresponding to the left ear (step S609).

[0072] For example, consider a case where the sound pressure level at the measured test frequency (500Hz) acquired in the first test (step S606) is two levels higher than the estimated initial value based on the user U characteristic information acquired in step S601. In this case, the processor 11 corrects the sound pressure levels at the frequencies adjacent to 500Hz (200Hz and 1kHz) to a value one level higher than the estimated initial value based on the user U characteristic information acquired in step S601 (step S607). The more times the first test and correction process (steps S606 to S609) is repeated, the more the accuracy of the setting data can be improved by the processor 11. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0073] 10: Information processing device, 11: Processor, 20: Hearing assistance device, App: Application

Claims

1. Equipped with a control unit, The control unit changes the initial hearing values, which are pre-set for the remaining frequencies, to estimated initial values ​​based on the first hearing test values ​​of the user who has undergone a hearing test for some of the multiple frequencies. Information processing device.

2. Equipped with a control unit, The control unit changes the initial hearing values, which are pre-set for multiple frequencies, to estimated initial values ​​based on the user's characteristic information. Information processing device.

3. The control unit, Based on the acquired first test value and the user's characteristic information, the estimated initial value is estimated. Based on the user's actions during the hearing test, which was performed using the estimated initial values, a second test value is set. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The user's characteristic information includes at least one of age, gender, and medical history. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 or claim 3.

5. The control unit determines the amplification level of each of the plurality of frequencies in the hearing assistance device based on the first test value and the second test value. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3.

6. The aforementioned partial frequencies include at least one frequency in the low frequency range, at least one frequency in the mid frequency range, and at least one frequency in the high frequency range. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. Based on the first hearing test results of a user who has undergone a hearing test for some of the multiple frequencies, the initial hearing values ​​pre-set for the remaining frequencies are changed to estimated initial values. To have the computer perform the process. method.

8. The system changes the pre-set initial hearing values ​​for multiple frequencies to estimated initial values ​​based on the user's characteristic information. To have the computer perform the process. method.

9. Based on the first hearing test results of a user who has undergone a hearing test for some of the multiple frequencies, the initial hearing values ​​pre-set for the remaining frequencies are changed to estimated initial values. To have the computer perform the process. program.

10. The system changes the pre-set initial hearing values ​​for multiple frequencies to estimated initial values ​​based on the user's characteristic information. To have the computer perform the process. program.

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