Systems and methods for wear testing and hearing tests using a hearing test headset, air conduction testing and bone conduction testing using a hearing test headset, and wirelessly connected hearing test headset, interface device, and administrator device.

Abstract

Methods, systems, and non-temporary computer-readable memory for hearing tests are disclosed. In some cases, a headset, interface device, and administrator device may communicate wirelessly to conduct a user's hearing test. In some cases, the hearing test may be a wear test or a hearing test. In some cases, the headset may be configured to conduct a hearing test using air conduction or bone conduction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This PCT international application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Application No. 18 / 176,947, filed on March 1, 2023, with the title "Systems and Methods for Air Conduction and Bone Conduction Testing using Audiometer Headsets".

[0002] This PCT international application also claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Application No. 18 / 176,945, filed on March 1, 2023, with the title "Systems and Methods for Fit and Hearing Testing using Audiometer Headsets".

[0003] This PCT international application also claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Application No. 18 / 176,944, filed on March 1, 2023, with the title "Systems and Methods for Wirelessly Connected Audiometer Headsets, Interface Devices, and Administrator Devicess".

[0004] This PCT international application also claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 483,642, filed on February 7, 2023, with the title "Systems and Methods for Fit and Hearing Testing using Audiometer Headsets, Systems and Methods for Air Conduction and Bone Conduction Testing using Audiometer Headsets, and Systems and Methods for Wirelessly Connected Audiometer Headsets, Interface Devices, and Administrator Devices".

[0005] The entire contents of each of the above are incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] Various aspects of this disclosure relate, in general, to systems and methods for hearing tests, and more particularly to wirelessly connected systems for hearing tests. [Background technology]

[0007] In the general population, hearing loss is the third most common chronic physical condition, more prevalent than diabetes or cancer. 14.1% (27.7 million people) of adults aged 20–69 have unilateral or bilateral hearing loss that affects their ability to understand and communicate spoken language. While many forms of hearing loss are medically treatable, many individuals do not benefit from treatment, partly because they lack access to high-quality diagnostic tests. The main limitations on accurate, high-quality diagnostic hearing tests are the expensive infrastructure required—namely, soundproof booths and the need for professionally trained audiologists to conduct the tests, which were traditionally conducted face-to-face, one-on-one. Getting to a facility that provides hearing health assessments is often too much of a barrier for many people living in rural areas with limited service.

[0008] Furthermore, occupational hearing loss is one of the most common work-related injuries. These industries typically mandate hearing protection programs similar to those in the military. Studies have demonstrated that workers who wear earplugs are at a higher risk of developing permanent hearing loss. While several fitting test systems have been developed, they often require trained operators to operate and are only compatible with earplugs from a single manufacturer.

[0009] Furthermore, noise-induced hearing loss and tinnitus are two of the most common and persistent injuries suffered by military personnel. Advances in hearing loss prevention strategies and the need for evidence-based auditory job suitability medical assessments are both major challenges regarding readiness. Despite recent advances in hearing protection technologies, military personnel are often unwilling to wear them due to limited access to these technologies, ineffective training to use them properly, or concerns that hearing protection will limit their situational awareness, thereby limiting their effectiveness and survivability in combat. In addition, many of the clinical tools and methods used to assess and record the hearing health of military personnel are outdated and inefficient, requiring military personnel to visit clinics with acoustic attenuation booths.

[0010] This disclosure is aimed at overcoming one or more of the challenges described above. [Overview of the project]

[0011] In certain aspects of this disclosure, a system, method, and computer-readable memory for hearing tests are disclosed.

[0012] In some cases, a system for hearing and fitting tests, the system may include a headset, the headset including a support structure and a pair of earcups connected by the support structure. In some cases, each pair of earcups may include a cushion configured to seal the inside of the earcup from the outside when worn by a user, an audiometer stack positioned inside the earcup, and an earcup attenuation structure surrounding the audiometer stack and connected to the cushion. In some cases, the earcup attenuation structure may be configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth. In some cases, the system may include an interface device configured to wirelessly connect to at least a first audiometer stack of the earcup pair.In some cases, the system outputs a first interface, the first interface including a first interface element configured to be selectable by a first input for initiating a hearing test; determines that the first input has selected the first interface element; in response to the determination that the first input has selected the first interface element, instructs at least a first audiometer stack to perform a first stimulus sequence; receives a first set of one or more user responses to at least a first subset of the first stimulus sequence; determines the hearing test result of the hearing test based on the first set of one or more user responses, the hearing test result including at least a measurement of the user's hearing ability; and a second interface configured to indicate a transition to a hearing protection fitting test. - Outputting a face, wherein the second interface includes at least a second interface element configured to be selectable by a second input for initiating a hearing protection fitting test; determining that the second input has selected the second interface element; instructing at least a first audiometer stack to perform a second stimulus sequence in response to the determination that the second input has selected the second interface element; receiving a second set of one or more user responses to at least a second subset of the second stimulus sequence; and determining the fitting test result of a hearing protection fitting test based on the second set of one or more user responses, wherein the fitting test result includes a display of the hearing attenuation achieved by the hearing protection worn by the user during the hearing protection fitting test.

[0013] In some cases, a method for hearing tests and fitting tests includes: outputting a first interface, the first interface including a first interface element configured to be selectable by a first input for initiating a hearing test; determining that the first input has selected the first interface element; instructing at least a first audiometer stack of a pair of audiometer stacks to perform a first stimulus sequence in response to the determination that the first input has selected the first interface element; receiving a first set of one or more user responses to at least a first subset of the first stimulus sequence; determining the hearing test result of the hearing test, based on the first set of one or more user responses, the hearing test result includes at least a measure of the user's hearing ability; and indicating a transition to a hearing protection fitting test. The output may include: outputting a second interface configured such that the second interface includes at least a second interface element configured to be selectable by a second input for initiating a hearing protection fitting test; determining that the second input has selected the second interface element; instructing at least a first audiometer stack to perform a second stimulus sequence in response to the determination that the second input has selected the second interface element; receiving a second set of one or more user responses to at least a second subset of the second stimulus sequence; and determining the fitting test result of a hearing protection fitting test based on the second set of one or more user responses, the fitting test result including an indication of the acoustic attenuation achieved by the hearing protection worn by the user during the hearing protection fitting test.

[0014] In some cases, a system for bone conduction hearing tests or wear tests may include a headset. In some cases, the headset may include a support structure, a pair of earcups connected by the support structure, and a bone conductor configured to be attached to the user's head and electronically connected to a first audiometer stack of the earcup pair, the second audiometer stack of the earcup pair being electronically connected to the first audiometer stack. In some cases, each of the earcup pairs includes a cushion configured to seal the inside of the earcup from the outside when worn by the user, an audiometer stack positioned inside the earcup, and an earcup attenuation structure surrounding the audiometer stack and connected to the cushion. In some cases, the earcup attenuation structure may be configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth. In some cases, the system may include an interface device configured to wirelessly connect to the first audiometer stack, transmit instructions to the first audiometer stack, and receive data from the first audiometer stack. In some cases, the first audiometer stack may include a first analog output, a second analog output, and a third analog output, the first analog output driving a first speaker associated with the first audiometer stack, the second analog output driving a second speaker associated with a second audiometer stack, and the third analog output driving a bone conduction device, the third analog output being different from the first and second analog outputs.

[0015] In some cases, a method for hearing tests and fitting tests may include wirelessly connecting an interface device to a first audiometer stack of a headset, transmitting instructions to the first audiometer stack, receiving data from the first audiometer stack, and transmitting instruction messages to the first audiometer stack of the headset, the instruction messages indicating instructions to start a hearing test or fitting test of the user, the first audiometer stack includes a first analog output, a second analog output, and a third analog output, and according to the firmware of the first audiometer stack, drives a first speaker associated with the first audiometer stack and a first earcup via the first analog output, drives a second speaker associated with a second audiometer stack and a second earcup via the second analog output, and drives a bone conduction body of the headset via the third analog output, according to the firmware of the first audiometer stack. In some cases, a first audiometer stack of the headset is associated with a first earcup of a pair of earcups of the headset, a second audiometer stack of the headset is associated with a second earcup of a pair of earcups of the headset, and the second audiometer stack is electronically connected to the first audiometer stack. In some cases, each pair of earcups includes a cushion configured to seal the inside of the earcup from the outside of the earcup when worn by the user, and an earcup attenuation structure surrounding each audiometer stack and connected to the cushion. In some cases, the earcup attenuation structure may be configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth. In some cases, a bone conductor is configured to be attached to the user's head and electronically connected to the first audiometer stack. In some cases, a third analog output is different from the first and second analog outputs.

[0016] In some cases, a system for hearing tests or fitting tests may include at least one headset. In some cases, at least one headset includes a first headset. In some cases, the first headset may include a support structure and a pair of earcups connected by the support structure. In some cases, each pair of earcups includes a cushion configured to seal the inside of the earcup from the outside when worn by a user, an audiometer stack positioned inside the earcup, and an earcup attenuation structure surrounding the audiometer stack and connected to the cushion. In some cases, the earcup attenuation structure is configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth. In some cases, the system may include at least one interface device, the at least one interface device including a first interface device configured to wirelessly connect to at least a first audiometer stack of the first headset. In some cases, the system may include an administrator device configured to wirelessly connect to each of the at least one interface devices, thereby transmitting instructions to each of the at least one headsets and receiving data from each of the at least one headsets via the at least one interface device. In some cases, the administrator device may be configured to send an instruction message to the first headset via the first interface device in response to receiving administrator user input on the administrator device, for performing a hearing test or fit test, the instruction message not containing data indicating the frequency, amplitude, or timing of the stimulus.

[0017] In some cases, a method for hearing or fitting tests may include wirelessly connecting at least one interface device to at least one headset, the at least one interface device including a first interface device, the first interface device is configured to wirelessly connect to at least a first audiometer stack of the first headset, and to wirelessly connect an administrator device to each of the at least one interface device, thereby transmitting instructions to each of the at least one headsets and receiving data from each of the at least one headsets, and transmitting instruction messages to the first headset via the first interface device in response to receiving administrator user input on the administrator device, for performing a hearing or fitting test. In some cases, the instruction messages do not include data indicating the frequency, amplitude, or timing of a stimulus.

[0018] Further purposes and benefits of the disclosed technology are partially described in the following description, partially evident from that description, or can be learned through the practice of the disclosed technology.

[0019] Please understand that both the above summary and the following detailed description are merely illustrative and descriptive, and do not limit the disclosed technology claimed.

[0020] The accompanying drawings incorporated herein, and which constitute part thereof, serve to illustrate various exemplary embodiments and, together with the descriptions, to explain the principles of the disclosed technology. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0021] [Figure 1] This figure shows examples of environments for hearing tests.

[0022] [Figure 2A]It is a diagram showing the features of an administrator device for a hearing test. [Figure 2B] It is a diagram showing the features of an interface device for a hearing test.

[0023] [Figure 3A] It is a data flow diagram of a hearing test or a wearing test among an administrator device, an interface device, and a headset. [Figure 3B] It is a data flow diagram of a hearing test or a wearing test among an administrator device, an interface device, and a headset. [Figure 3C] It is a data flow diagram of a hearing test or a wearing test among an administrator device, an interface device, and a headset. [Figure 3D] It is a data flow diagram of a hearing test or a wearing test among an administrator device, an interface device, and a headset. [Figure 3E] It is a data flow diagram of a hearing test or a wearing test among an administrator device, an interface device, and a headset.

[0024] [Figure 4A] It is a diagram showing the features of a headset. [Figure 4B] It is a diagram showing the features of a headset.

[0025] [Figure 5A] It is a diagram showing the features of a wearing test. [Figure 5B] It is a diagram showing the features of a wearing test. [Figure 5C] It is a diagram showing the features of a wearing test. [Figure 6A] It is a diagram showing the features of a wearing test. [Figure 6B] It is a diagram showing the features of a wearing test. [Figure 7A] It is a diagram showing the features of a wearing test. [Figure 7B] It is a diagram showing the features of a wearing test.

[0026] [Figure 8A] This diagram shows the characteristics of bone conduction testing. [Figure 8B] This diagram shows the characteristics of bone conduction testing. [Figure 8C] This diagram shows the characteristics of bone conduction testing.

[0027] [Figure 9] This is a flowchart for masking during hearing tests.

[0028] [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing accelerated threshold determination.

[0029] [Figure 11A] This diagram shows the graphical user interface on the administrator device and interface device. [Figure 11B] This diagram shows the graphical user interface on the administrator device and interface device. [Figure 11C] This diagram shows the graphical user interface on the administrator device and interface device. [Figure 11D] This diagram shows the graphical user interface on the administrator device and interface device. [Figure 11E] This diagram shows the graphical user interface on the administrator device and interface device. [Figure 12] This diagram shows the graphical user interface on the administrator device and interface device.

[0030] [Figure 13] This figure shows an exemplary system that can implement the technologies presented herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0031] Various aspects of this disclosure relate, in general, to hearing tests, and more specifically, to wirelessly connected systems for hearing tests. In particular, this disclosure describes features of an audiometer and transducer (e.g., speaker and / or bone vibrator) combined with a headset (referred to as the “Audiometer Headset”), an interface device, and an administrator device for wearable testing or hearing tests using air conduction or bone conduction.

[0032] In some cases, the audiometer headset, interface device, and administrator device may be wirelessly connected to perform a wear test or hearing test using air conduction or bone conduction. The administrator device may be configured to send instructional messages to the headset via the interface device in response to receiving administrator user input on the administrator device, for performing the hearing test or wear test. In some cases, the instructional messages may omit certain details required for the test (e.g., the actual signal to be presented to the test subject) and instead send parameters for the wear test or hearing test (e.g., the frequency and start amplitude of the test signal), thereby avoiding reliance on the hardware / software stack of the administrator device / interface device (e.g., a mobile phone or tablet) to output a high-quality analog signal. In some cases, the instructional messages may omit certain details required for the test (e.g., data indicating the frequency, amplitude, or timing of the stimulus for the wear test or hearing test).

[0033] In some cases, the headset may include a bone conductor. The bone conductor may be configured to be attached to the user's head and electronically connected to a first audiometer stack of earcups (e.g., inside the first earcup). A second audiometer stack of earcups (e.g., inside the second earcup) may be electronically connected to the first audiometer stack. The first audiometer stack may include a first analog output, a second analog output, and a third analog output. The first analog output drives a first speaker associated with the first audiometer stack, the second analog output drives a second speaker associated with the second audiometer stack, and the third analog output drives the bone conductor. The third analog output may be different from the first and second analog outputs. Thus, bone conduction testing may be performed automatically using a wirelessly connected audiometer headset, interface device, and administrator device.

[0034] In some cases, an audiometer headset may provide the user with educational information about hearing protection and / or hearing aids while automatically conducting hearing tests and / or fitting tests. In some cases, the audiometer headset may automatically transition from a hearing test to a fitting test. Generally, an interface device may provide user responses to the audiometer headset, thereby allowing the headset to track the user's response time and response indicator (response or non-response) to presented stimuli. Furthermore, the audiometer headset may modify the stimulus sequence based on the user's response to a first set of presentations, thereby efficiently performing automated hearing tests or fitting tests. In some cases, the audiometer headset or interface device may automatically interpret the results and provide feedback to the person being tested. For example, if a fitting test indicates that the person's earplugs are not providing the expected hearing protection, additional instructions on how to properly fit those hearing aids can be provided. In this way, audiometer headsets, interface devices, and administrator devices can save time and reduce the workload of audiologists.

[0035] Therefore, the methods and systems of this disclosure may be improvements to computer technology and / or audiometer technology.

[0036] environment Figure 1 shows an example environment 100 for a hearing test. Environment 100 may include an administrator device 105, a network(s) 110, a server 115, multiple interface devices 120A-120N, and multiple headsets 125A-125N.

[0037] The administrator device 105 may be a personal computing device, such as a mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. In some cases, the administrator device 105 may be an augmented reality (XR) device (such as a virtual reality device, augmented reality device, or mixed reality device). In some cases, the administrator device 105 may be associated with a user of a healthcare service (e.g., an administrator) (i.e., an audiologist). The administrator may have a user account associated with the administrator device 105 / server 115 that uniquely identifies the administrator.

[0038] Network(s) 110 may include one or more local networks, private networks, corporate networks, public networks (e.g., the Internet), cellular networks, and satellite networks to connect various devices within Environment 100. Generally, various devices in Environment 100 may communicate via Network(s) 110 using, for example, network communication standards that connect endpoints corresponding to various devices in Environment 100.

[0039] Server 115 may (in some cases) manage data and communications between the administrator device 105 and the interface device 120. In certain embodiments, Server 115 may run server-side applications (e.g., corresponding to browser programs, mobile applications, desktop applications, etc. on the administrator device 105 and / or interface device 120) so that instructions, requests, and messages can be stored, managed, and transmitted to relevant endpoints, as described herein. Server 115 may store relevant data (as described herein) in data structures. The data structures may be structured or unstructured databases or other data storage systems (e.g., time-series databases). As is well known, data structures can store both data (in various tables or data structures, in different secure methodologies based on confidentiality, etc.) and rules (e.g., medical data, personal data, etc., are stored more securely). In some cases, Server 115 may relay communications between components of the environment 100 while simultaneously providing functionality and / or records to various components of the environment.

[0040] Multiple interface devices 120A to 120N (hereinafter referred to as interface device 120 for ease of reference) may be personal computing devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, or desktop computers. In some cases, interface device 120 may be an augmented reality (XR) device, such as a virtual reality device, an augmented reality device, or a mixed reality device. In some cases, interface device 120 may be associated with a user of a healthcare service (e.g., a patient), or interface device 120 may be used by various users of an organization. A user has a user account associated with server 115 that uniquely identifies the user (or at least a record stored in association with a user ID). In some cases, an administrator device 105 may be combined with interface device 120, i.e., a patient may use the administrator device, or an administrator may use the interface devices. In this case, the data flow described herein still applies, but is passed between applications residing on the same device and not via wireless communication.

[0041] Multiple headsets 125A to 125N (hereinafter referred to as headset 125 for ease of reference) may be headsets configured to provide hearing tests outside a soundproof booth (e.g., in a location not enclosed by a soundproof booth). As described herein, headset 125 may include a support structure (e.g., a headband) and pairs of earcups connected by the support structure. Each pair of earcups may include a cushion, an audiometer stack, and an earcup attenuation structure. The cushion may be configured to seal the inside of the earcup from the outside when worn by a user. The audiometer stack may be located inside the earcup. The earcup attenuation structure may surround the audiometer stack and be connected to the cushion. The earcup attenuation structure may be configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth. Further details of headset 125 are described herein.

[0042] In some cases, the headset 125 may be connected to a single interface device 120. In some cases, a single interface device 120 may be connected to one or more headsets 125. Generally, the headset 125 may be connected to the interface device using a low-energy communication standard (e.g., Bluetooth). Thus, the headset 125 and interface device 120 may transmit parameters via Bluetooth low energy, such as (1) the frequency and start amplitude of the test signal, or (2) only test indicators (e.g., a first indicator corresponding to a hearing test and a second indicator corresponding to a fitting test), while omitting certain details required for the test (e.g., the actual signal to be presented to the test subject for a fitting test or a hearing test). In this way, the system can avoid relying on the hardware / software stack of the administrator device 105 / interface device 120 to output high-quality analog signals.

[0043] In some cases, the administrator device 105 and one or more interface devices 120 may be connected via a first route A. For example, the first route A may connect the administrator device 105 to a server 115, and the server 115 to one or more interface devices 120. For example, each connection to the server 115 may be securely encrypted over a network(s) 110 (e.g., the Internet).

[0044] In some cases, the administrator device 105 and one or more interface devices 120 may be connected via a second route B. For example, the second route B may connect the administrator device 105 to one or more interface devices 120 via a network(s) 110. For example, each connection via the network(s) 110 may be securely encrypted via the network(s) 110 (e.g., a local network, a self-broadcast WIFI network from the administrator device 105).

[0045] In some cases, the administrator device 105 and one or more interface devices 120 may be connected via a third route C. For example, the third route C may connect the administrator device 105 and one or more interface devices 120 via standard Bluetooth, Low Energy Bluetooth, or other low-energy communication standards (e.g., Zigbee or other wireless personal area networks (WPANs)).

[0046] In some cases, the set of administrator device 105 and interface device 120 may be configured to use only one route (e.g., route C) for security reasons. In some cases, the set of administrator device 105 and interface device 120 may be configured to use any available route from routes A, B, or C (e.g., selecting the fastest route, highest bandwidth, lowest latency, etc.).

[0047] Figures 2A and 2B show the features of the administrator device 105 and interface device 120 for hearing tests. The features of the administrator device 105 and interface device 120 in Figures 2A and 2B can be applied to Figures 1, 3A-3E, 4A-4B, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8A-8C, 9, 10, 11A-11E, 12, and 13.

[0048] Figure 2A shows the features of the administrator device 105. The administrator device 105 may include a user interface 205 (UI205), a central processing unit 210 (CPU210), network input / output 215 (network I / O215), and memory 220. The memory 220 may include at least an operating system 220A (O / S220A), an administrator application 220B (autistometer administrator application 220B), and an administrator data structure 220C (administrator data structure 220C). The administrator device 105 may operate as an administrator interface to control, monitor, and process fitting tests and hearing tests for one or more users by sending instructions to one or more headsets 125 via the interface device 120 and receiving data / messages from one or more headsets 125 via the interface device 120.

[0049] UI205 may include a touch display, display, microphone, speaker, and / or software or hardware buttons, switches, dials, etc. Network I / O215 may be, for example, one or more network cards for sending and receiving communications with interface device 120 and / or network(s) 110.

[0050] Memory 220 may store instructions (e.g., software code) for O / S 220A and the audiometer administrator application 220B. Memory 220 may also store data for the audiometer administrator application 220B in the administrator data structure 220C. O / S 220A may provide access to the hardware / software layer of the administrator device 105 and the communication layer of the network I / O 215. The audiometer administrator application 220B may provide communication management to the server 115 and the interface device 120 and may provide a user interface (via UI 205) for interacting with the features described herein. For example, the audiometer administrator application 220B may be a mobile application, desktop application, or browser-side web application implemented in a browser to display a graphical user interface, receive user input, and perform functions / communications, as described herein. The administrator data structure 220C may be a structured or unstructured database or other data storage system (e.g., a time-series database). As is well known, the administrator data structure 220C can store both data (in various tables or data structures, in different secure methodologies based on confidentiality, etc.) and rules (for example, medical data, personal data, etc., are stored more securely). The CPU 210 can execute instructions to run the OS and at least the audiometer administrator application 220B.

[0051] Figure 2B shows the features of the interface device 120. The interface device 120 may include a user interface 225 (UI225), a central processing unit 230 (CPU230), a network input / output 235 (network I / O235), and memory 240. The memory 240 may include at least an operating system 240A (O / S240A), an audiometer interface application 240B (autistometer interface app240B), and an interface data structure 240C (interface data structure240C). The interface device 120 may operate as a relay device between the administrator device 105 and the headset 125, and may operate as a response device for user responses to stimuli output by the headset 125.

[0052] UI225 may include a touch display, display, microphone, speaker, and / or software or hardware buttons, switches, dials, etc. Network I / O235 may be, for example, one or more network cards for sending and receiving communications with an administrator device 105, a headset 125, and / or a network(s) 110.

[0053] Memory 240 may store instructions (e.g., software code) for O / S 240A and the audiometer interface application 240B. Memory 240 may also store data for the audiometer interface application 240B in the interface data structure 240C. O / S 240A may provide access to the hardware / software layer of the interface device 120 and the communication layer of the network I / O 235. The audiometer interface application 240B may provide communication management to the administrator device 105, server 115, and headset 125, and may provide a user interface (via UI 225) for interacting with the features described herein. For example, the audiometer interface application 240B may be a mobile application, desktop application, or browser-side web application running in a browser to display a graphical user interface, receive user input, and perform functions / communications, as described herein. The interface data structure 240C may be a structured or unstructured database or other data storage system (e.g., a time-series database). As is well known, the interface data structure 240C can store both data (in various tables or data structures, in different secure methodologies based on confidentiality, etc.) and rules (for example, medical data, personal data, etc., are stored more securely). The CPU 230 can execute instructions for the OS and at least the audiometer interface application 240B.

[0054] Data flow for hearing tests or fitting tests Figures 3A-3E show data flow diagrams 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, and 300E of a hearing test or fitting test between the administrator device 105, the interface device 120, and the headset 125. The features of data flow diagrams 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, and 300E between the administrator device 105, the interface device 120, and the headset 125 in Figures 3A-3E can be applied to Figures 1, 2A-2B, 4A-4B, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8A-8C, 9, 10, 11A-11E, 12, and 13.

[0055] In operation O302, the administrator device 105 may perform scan / alert function O302A, and the interface device 120 may perform scan / alert function O302B, forming a first connection. For example, using Bluetooth, the administrator device 105 may broadcast a signal, and the interface device 120 may scan the broadcast signal and negotiate the connection. In response to forming the first connection, the administrator device 105 and the interface device 120 may pass data and / or commands.

[0056] In operation O304, the headset 125 may perform scan / alert function O304B, and the interface device 120 may perform scan / alert function O304A, forming a second connection. For example, using Bluetooth, the headset 125 may broadcast a signal, and the interface device 120 may scan the broadcast signal and negotiate a connection. In response to forming a second connection, the headset 125 and the interface device 120 may pass data and / or commands.

[0057] In operation O306, the interface device 120 may transmit the connection status to the administrator device 105. For example, the interface device 120 may transmit the connection status to the administrator device 105 after the first and second connections have been established. The connection status may indicate that the second connection has been established. In some cases, the connection status may include data about the headset 125 (e.g., headset ID, headset battery status, etc.).

[0058] In operation O308, the administrator device 105 may process the connection status from the interface device 120 and perform certain actions. For example, the administrator device 105 may launch the audiometer administrator app 220B and, in response to the connection status, display the administrator interface (e.g., the setup interface 1100A-1 in Figure 11A). The administrator device 105 may receive user input (e.g., test parameter setup) and user input to start the test. The administrator device 105 may determine a first action based on the user input to start the test. For example, the administrator device 105 may retrieve relevant data and create a first instruction message. In some cases, the first instruction message does not contain any signals to be presented to the test subject. In some cases, the first instruction message does not contain data indicating the frequency, amplitude, or timing of a stimulus.

[0059] In operation O310, the administrator device 105 may send a first instruction message. The first instruction message may include at least instructions on the type of test to be performed. In some cases, the first instruction message may include user data (for example, for the welcome interface 1100B-2 on the interface device 120) and relevant audiometer data (for example, previous test results, audiogram data about the user, unoccluded data about the user, etc., obtained from the administrator data structure 220C or the server 115).

[0060] In operation O312, the interface device 120 may process the first instruction message and perform a specific action. For example, the interface device 120 may display an interface UI (e.g., a welcome interface 1100B-2, a first instruction interface 602, etc.). The interface device 120 may receive various user inputs (e.g., training confirmation, data confirmation, etc.) and user input to start the test. In some cases, the interface device 120 may send a message to the headset 125 alerting that the test has been set up but the user has not instructed that the test should be started via the interface device 120. In some cases, the interface device 120 may determine a second action based on the user input to start the test. For example, the administrator device 105 may retrieve relevant data (e.g., from the first instruction message or interface data structure 240C) and create a second instruction message.

[0061] In operation O314, the interface device 120 may send a second instruction message to the headset 125. The second instruction message may include, at a minimum, instructions to begin a test. The second instruction message may also include the type of test to be performed. The second instruction message may also include user data (e.g., name, known medical conditions, etc.) and relevant audiometer data (e.g., previous test results, audiogram data about the user, unoccluded data about the user, etc., obtained from the administrator data structure 220C or the server 115 and passed in the first instruction message or by another message). The type of test to be performed, user data, and audiometer data may be sent before the second instruction message (e.g., while the user is reviewing training materials), for example, in response to receiving the first instruction message. The headset 125 may receive the second instruction message.

[0062] In operation O316, the headset 125 may perform a watchdog function O316B, and the interface device 120 may perform a watchdog function O316A, ensuring that the second connection remains active and operational if no message is sent or acknowledgment is received by the other party at every set time interval or within a threshold time interval. For example, using Bluetooth, the headset 125 may broadcast an acknowledgment request message, and the interface device 120 may receive, process, and send an acknowledgment message to the headset 125. In this way, the headset 125 can maintain user safety by not increasing the stimulus level to a high level (e.g., an upper-range dB level) while the user is attempting to respond but the interface device 120 is unable to communicate the user's response to the headset 125.

[0063] In operation O318, the headset 125 may process the second instruction message and any data contained within the second instruction message, such as test type, user data, and / or audiometer data (collectively, "test parameter data"). If the test parameter data was transmitted before the second instruction message, the headset 125 may retrieve the test parameter data from the memory installed in the headset 125 (where the test parameter data was stored upon reception). The headset 125 may proceed to determine the stimulus sequence based on the test parameter data. The headset 125 may proceed to output a first stimulus at time t1, for example, by driving one or both speakers and / or bone conductors. The headset 125 may also open a first response window.

[0064] In operation O320, the interface device 120 may receive user input indicating a response, for example, via the response UI element 604B. The interface device 120 may determine a third action based on the user response indicating a response to a stimulus. In some cases, the third action may be to send a response message to the headset 125. In some cases, the third action may be to send a response message to the administrator device 105 (thereby allowing the administrator device 105 to also collect response data). In this case, the headset 125 may periodically or in response to trigger conditions send data about the output stimulus (e.g., time, frequency, level, etc.) to the administrator device 105 via the interface device 120.

[0065] In operation O322, the interface device 120 may send a response message to the headset 125. The headset 125 may receive the response message. The response message may indicate a timestamp when the user input was responded to via the response UI element 604B.

[0066] In operation O324, the headset 125 may determine that the response was within a first response window. For example, the headset 125 may extract a timestamp from the response message and compare it to the first response window. The headset 125 may record response data (e.g., response time (time elapsed from output to timestamp), user response, frequency, level, masking, ear being tested, etc.). The headset 125 may then output a second stimulus at time t2. The headset 125 may also open a second response window.

[0067] In operation O326, the headset 125 may determine that the second response window has ended. For example, the response window may be set to a defined range (e.g., 3, 5, or 7 seconds). If no response message / timestamp of a response message is received from the interface device within the second response window, the headset 125 may determine that there was no response from the user within the second response window. The headset 125 may process the response data (e.g., user no response, frequency, level, masking, ear being tested, etc.) to record. The headset 125 and the interface device 120 may continue the test by outputting stimuli (according to the stimulus sequence) and exchanging response messages.

[0068] In operation O328, the headset 125 may determine to modify the stimulus sequence. In some cases, the headset 125 may determine to modify the stimulus sequence after a predetermined number of stimuli have been output, or based on the user's response (or lack thereof). For example, the headset 125 may determine that a change to the sequence can accelerate the determination of the user's hearing threshold by varying the level or frequency in a particular manner (see Figure 10), or by selecting an indeterminate point on the threshold map 708 (see Figure 7A). The headset 125 may then output stimuli according to the modified stimulus sequence.

[0069] In some cases, response time may be used to modify the stimulus sequence. For example, a longer response time may indicate a guess or stimulus closer to the user's hearing threshold. Generally, a user's response time is roughly constant (e.g., 100 ms). Therefore, a response time close to the average response ("valid response") may indicate a valid response by the user. However, a response time exceeding the threshold response time above the average response (e.g., within the range of 1, 2, or 3 seconds, but within the response window) ("invalid response") may indicate a guess or uncertainty. In some cases, the headset 125 may modify the stimulus sequence to retest invalid responses. In some cases, the headset 125 may determine the hearing threshold using weighted thresholds. The weight for invalid responses may be less weighted than the weight for valid responses. In some cases, the headset 125 may mark a response as invalid and exclude it from consideration. In some cases, the headset 125 may flag the user for intervention by an administrator.

[0070] In operations O330, O322, and O324, the headset 125 and interface device 120 may operate in the same manner as in operations O320, O322, and O324 (user response within a time window). However, in addition, in operation O334, the headset 125 may also determine intermediate results. Intermediate results may include a response dataset showing what stimuli were output and when, whether a response was received, and the response time to the response for a portion of the test.

[0071] In operation O336, the headset 125 may transmit intermediate results to the interface device 120. The interface device 120 may receive intermediate results from the headset 125.

[0072] In operations O338 and O340, the interface device 120 may process the intermediate results (for example, store them locally) and / or send the intermediate results to the administrator device 105. The administrator device 105 may receive the intermediate results.

[0073] In operation O342, the administrator device 105 may process intermediate results and update the administrator interface showing the progress and / or characteristics of the response dataset. For example, the administrator device 105 may update the second evaluation interface 1100C-2 to reflect the state and / or data of the response dataset.

[0074] The headset 125 and interface device 120 may continue the test by outputting stimuli (according to the modified stimulus sequence) and exchanging response messages. For example, the headset 125 and interface device 120 may continue the test in parallel with the intermediate results being passed to the interface device 120 and / or the administrator device 105.

[0075] In operation O344, the headset 125 may determine that the test is complete. For example, in a fitting test, the headset 125 may (statistically) determine that the attenuation is sufficient for the hearing protection worn by the user. In a hearing test, the headset 125 may determine the hearing threshold for a set of frequencies and determine that no further stimulation is needed to determine the threshold. The headset 125 may then proceed to determine the final result. The final result may include a response dataset showing what stimuli were output and when, whether a response was received, and the response time for the response, for the entire test (or the portion not transmitted by the intermediate results).

[0076] In operation O346, the headset 125 may transmit the final result to the interface device 120. The interface device 120 may receive the final result from the headset 125.

[0077] In operations O348 and O350, interface device 120 may process the final result (for example, store it locally) and / or send the final result to administrator device 105. Administrator device 105 may receive the final result.

[0078] In operation O352, the administrator device 105 may process the final results and update the administrator interface to show the progress (e.g., test complete) and / or characteristics of the response dataset. For example, the administrator device 105 may update the second evaluation interface 1100C-2 to reflect the status and / or data of the response dataset, or display the report interface 1100E-1.

[0079] In Figure 3E, actions O354 to O370 are examples of how to handle errors. For clarification, it should be added that performing these actions in conjunction with the actions described above is optional.

[0080] In operation O354, the headset 125 may determine that the second connection has been interrupted. For example, the watchdog 416B may determine that a response message or requested acknowledgment was not received within the time frame. The headset 125 may suspend the stimulus sequence until the second connection is re-established.

[0081] In operation O356, interface device 120 may determine that the second connection has been interrupted. For example, watchdog 416A may determine that a result message or requested acknowledgment was not received within the time frame. In operation O358, interface device 120 may proceed to send an error indicator to administrator device 105. The error indicator may indicate that the second connection has been interrupted. Administrator device 105 may receive the error indicator from interface device 120. In operation O360, administrator device 105 may process the error indicator and update the administrator interface (for example, by alerting the administrator that an error has occurred).

[0082] In operation O362, the headset 125 may determine that a startup error or runtime error has occurred. For example, the headset 125 may determine that masking is not feasible for this user. The headset 125 may proceed not to start or to stop the stimulus sequence until the startup error or runtime error is resolved.

[0083] In operation O364, the headset 125 may send an error indicator to the interface device 120. The interface device 120 may receive the error indicator.

[0084] In operations O366 and O368, the interface device 120 may process the error indicator and proceed to send the error indicator to the administrator device 105. The administrator device 105 may receive the error indicator from the interface device 120. In operation O370, the administrator device 105 may process the error indicator and update the administrator interface (for example, by alerting the administrator that an error has occurred).

[0085] In this way, hearing tests can be automated even outside of the acoustic booth.

[0086] headset Figures 4A-4B show the features of the headset 125. The features of the headset 125 in Figures 4A-4B can be applied to Figures 1, 2A-2B, 3A-3E, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8A-8C, 9, 10, 11A-11E, 12, and 13.

[0087] Figure 4A shows the external features of the headset 125. The headset 125 may include a support structure 402, an ear cup pair 404 (including a first ear cup 404A and a second ear cup 404B), and a cable 406 connecting the ear cup pair 404.

[0088] Figure 4B shows the internal features of the headset 125. In some cases, each of the earcup pairs 404 of the headset 125 may include a cushion 408, a cover 410, an audiometer stack (which may be the same or different between both earcups 404, but both always include a speaker assembly 412), insulation 414, a case 416, and a cable connection 418. In some cases, one or both of the earcups 404 of the headset 125 may include a program board 420, a charging port 422, a charging hole 424, a battery system 426, and a switchboard 428.

[0089] In some cases, the audiometer stack may include either a program board 420 or a battery system 426. In some cases, the interface device 120 is configured to wirelessly connect to at least one first audiometer stack of the earcup pair. For example, the interface device 120 may be configured to connect to an audiometer stack having a program board 420 ("first audiometer stack"). The second audiometer stack may include a battery system 426 configured to power each of the first and second audiometer stacks.

[0090] In some cases, the first audiometer stack is connected to the second audiometer stack of the earcup pair 404 via cable 406 to pass analog signals from the program board 420 to drive the speaker of the second audiometer stack. Cable 406 may also pass power from the second audiometer stack to the first audiometer stack. In some cases, the first audiometer stack includes control electronics and a wireless communication transceiver. For example, the control electronics and the wireless communication transceiver may be mounted on the program board 420. In some cases, the wireless communication transceiver may be a Bluetooth drive. In some cases, the control electronics may be a controller and memory. In some cases, the control electronics is configured to receive interface device commands from the interface device 120 via the wireless communication transceiver. For example, the interface device command may instruct the control electronics to start a test. The control electronics may determine a stimulus sequence according to test parameter data and the firmware of the control electronics. The control electronics may then output an analog signal according to the stimulus sequence. The control electronics may transmit analog signals to each speaker of the first and second audiometer stacks. In some cases, cable 406 may be omitted. In these cases, the first and second audiometer stacks may include all or some of the components of the first audiometer stack (e.g., program board, battery, wireless communication transceiver, and analog output) to drive their respective speakers and receive analog data from their respective microphones. In some cases, the first and second audiometer stacks may each receive instructions from interface device 120 and adjust the stimuli output between them. In some cases, the first and second audiometer stacks may omit the battery system. In these cases, the headset 125 may be powered by an external battery (e.g., a mobile battery plugged into the headset) or an external power source (e.g., plugged into a local power grid).

[0091] In some cases, the control electronics are configured to transmit data from each of the first and second audiometer stacks to the interface device 120 via a wireless communication transceiver. In some cases, the data is obtained based on microphone data from each of the first and second audiometer stacks. In some cases, the data (e.g., intermediate or final results) may be transmitted only from the program board 420. In some cases, the microphones of the audiometer stacks may collect ambient noise data and / or calibration feedback noise data. In the case of ambient noise data, the headset 125 may use the microphone to detect ambient noise during the hearing test and determine whether the ambient noise is greater than an ambient noise threshold (e.g., a specific dB level). In this case, the headset 125 may determine to pause the hearing test and send an alert (e.g., a runtime error indicator) to the interface device 120 and / or the administrator device 105. In some cases, or, in addition to the headset 125 checking ambient noise, the interface device 120 and / or administrator device 105 (if present locally) may use their own microphones to record ambient noise and determine whether it exceeds the ambient noise threshold. The headset 125, interface device 120, and / or administrator device 105 may detect that the ambient noise is below the ambient noise threshold and determine to continue the test. In some cases, the interface device 120 may display an interface to the user informing them that the test will be paused due to ambient noise. For calibration noise data, while performing a calibration check (see, for example, the calibration check interface 1100A-3 in Figure 11A), the headset 125 may output stimuli through the speaker in a sealed space (e.g., with the cover over the cushion) to acquire calibration noise data (e.g., microphone signals converted to digital data) and determine whether the output stimuli meet the calibration conditions (e.g., are within the expected sound output range from the speaker).

[0092] The cushion 408 may be formed of an insulating material (for example, for noise reduction) and covered with a fabric (for example, for comfort). The cushion 408 may surround the user's ears.

[0093] The cover 410 may be a dust cover for the speaker assembly 412. The speaker assembly 412 may include at least a speaker and a structure for mounting the speaker inside the earcup. In some cases, the speaker assembly 412 may also include a microphone. In some cases, the structure for mounting the speaker inside the earcup of the speaker assembly 412 may be a plate. In some cases, the speaker assembly 412 may also include additional elements for improving acoustics (e.g., closed / open foam), improving handling robustness (e.g., a fabric cover and a rigid structure), and measuring additional data related to conducting hearing and wearing tests (e.g., temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors).

[0094] The insulating material 414 and the case 416 may together constitute an “earcup attenuation structure.” The insulating material 414 may be configured to attenuate high-frequency noise from outside the earcup. The case 416 may be configured to attenuate low-frequency noise from outside the earcup. The case 416 may include a baffle projecting from the inner wall of the case toward the inside of the earcup. The case 416 may include a side wall extending away from the cushion 408 and an end wall surrounding the side wall. In some cases, the end wall may be curved by at least one dimension to reduce resonance with stimuli from the speakers of the audiometer stack. For example, the end wall may be a semicircle with a radius centered on the ear canal, and the semicircle may extend vertically from the top of the user's head toward the bottom of the user's head. In some cases, the case 416 may omit the baffle projecting from the inner wall of the case toward the inside of the earcup. A cable connection 418 may pass through the case 416 and connect to the cable 406.

[0095] In some cases, the program board 420 may include firmware, a voltage module, and at least one analog output. The firmware may functionally correspond to control electronics, or the aforementioned controller and memory. The firmware may be configured to determine the frequency of the stimulus, the amplitude of the stimulus (e.g., level in dB units), and the timing of the stimulus (collectively, test parameters) based on the type of hearing test or wearable test being performed. For example, the test parameters correspond to the stimulus sequence according to the test parameter data. In some cases, the firmware may adjust the test parameters based on the user response and / or response time.

[0096] In some cases, the voltage module may be configured to output a dynamic range for each of at least one analog outputs. The dynamic range output may be configured to generate a pure tone, modulated tone (e.g., frequency-modulated tone), band-limited noise, voice, or other stimulus designed to test the fit of earplugs or the auditory sensitivity of a patient.

[0097] The charging port 422 may be a USB port for receiving power from the charging hole 424 (when USB power is applied to the charging hole 424). The charging hole 424 may be formed within the case 416.

[0098] The battery system 426 may include a battery 426A, a battery attachment 426B, and a battery plate 426C. The battery 426A may be a rechargeable battery. The battery attachment 426B may secure the battery 426A to the battery plate 426C. The battery plate 426C may secure the battery system 426 to the speaker plate assembly and reduce vibration / noise.

[0099] The switchboard 428 can route analog signals between the microphone / speaker of the second audiometer stack and the first audiometer stack via cable 406. The switchboard 428 can also route battery power from the battery system 426 from the second audiometer stack to the first audiometer stack via cable 406.

[0100] Fitting test Figures 5A-5C, 6A-6B, and 7A-7B show the characteristics of the fitting test. The characteristics of the fitting test in Figures 5A-5B, 6A-6B, and 7A-7B can be applied to Figures 1, 2A-2B, 3A-3E, 4A-4B, 8A-8C, 9, 10, 11A-11E, 12, and 13.

[0101] Figure 5A shows Figure 500A for the fitting test. Figures 5B-5C show flowcharts 500B and 500C for the fitting test. Figures 6A-6B show Figures 600A and 600B for the graphic user interface sequence for the fitting test. Figures 7A-7B show data flow 700A for determining the attenuation rating (e.g., personal attenuation rating, "PAR") and data in comparison chart 700B based on the results of data flow 700A.

[0102] In Figure 5A, fitting test figure 500A may show the ear canal 502 and a hearing protector 504 inserted into the ear canal 502 relative to a cushion 408, cover 410, speaker assembly 412, and, for example, a program board 420 (or battery system 426 / switchboard 428). The cover 410 and speaker assembly 412 may be positioned to maintain a gap 506 from the user's ear. The gap 506 may be defined such that the plate of the speaker assembly 412 is located inside the ear cup and provides space for the hearing protector when applied to the user. For example, the space of the gap 506 may be 20, 30, 40 mm, etc. In some cases, the mounting structure (e.g., plate) is configured to mount the speaker inside the ear cup. The speaker and mounting structure are positioned inside the ear cup with sufficient clearance to avoid physical contact with the test subject's ear and any inserted hearing protector. In this way, the gap prevents physical contact between (a) the speaker and mounting structure and (2) the ear or hearing protection device. Thus, the gap prevents alternative pathways for sound / vibration that could lead to inaccurate results.

[0103] Generally, the system may be configured to output a first interface. The first interface may include a first interface element configured to be selectable by a first input for initiating a hearing test. The system (e.g., interface device 120 or administrator device 105) may determine that the first input has selected the first interface element. In response to the determination that the first input has selected the first interface element, the system (e.g., interface device 120) may instruct at least a first audiometer stack to perform a first stimulus sequence. For example, the program board 420 of the headset 125 may determine the first stimulus sequence according to test parameter data for a hearing test and drive a speaker and / or bone conductor to output the first stimulus sequence. The system may then proceed to receive a first set of one or more user responses to at least a first subset of the first stimulus sequence. For example, a user input on interface device 120 may indicate a user response to a stimulus. Based on the first set of one or more user responses, the system may determine the hearing test result of the hearing test. In some cases, hearing test results may include at least a measure of the user's hearing ability. For example, the measure of hearing ability may correspond to non-obstructive data about the user.

[0104] The system may proceed to output a second interface. The second interface may be configured to indicate a transition to a hearing protection fitting test ("fitting test"). The second interface may include at least a second interface element configured to be selectable by a second input for initiating a hearing protection fitting test. The system may determine that the second input has selected a second interface element, and in response to this determination, may proceed to instruct at least a first audiometer stack to perform a second stimulation sequence. For example, the program board 420 of the headset 125 may determine a second stimulation sequence according to test parameter data for the fitting test and drive a speaker and / or bone conductor to output the second stimulation sequence. The system may proceed to receive a second set of one or more user responses to at least a second subset of the second stimulation sequence. Based on the second set of one or more user responses, the system may determine the fitting test result of the fitting test. In some cases, the fitting test result may include an indication of the hearing attenuation achieved by the hearing protection worn by the user during the fitting test.

[0105] In some cases, the system may determine a portion of a first stimulus sequence based on a portion of a first set of one or more user responses. For example, the system may modify the stimulus sequence after a predetermined number of stimuli have been output, or based on the user's response (or lack thereof). For example, the headset 125 may determine that a change to the sequence can accelerate the determination of the user's hearing threshold by varying the level or frequency in a particular manner (see Figure 10), or by selecting an indeterminate point on the threshold map 708 (see Figure 7A).

[0106] In Figures 5B-5C, flowcharts 500B and 500C may illustrate the actions taken to initiate a wear test via the interface device 120 in response to an instruction message from the administrator device 105. These actions may be performed by the headset 125 and the interface device 120.

[0107] In operation O502, system 125 may include a survey. The survey may include questions to determine noise exposure (e.g., asking about the subject's occupation, or, in the case of military personnel, their military occupational specialty (MOS)), and may include a function to input data from noise measurements taken in the environment in which the subject works. The survey may be digital (e.g., via interface device 120) or data via forms and input (e.g., by an administrator).

[0108] In operation O504, the headset 125 may determine that sufficient attenuation is present. For example, the headset 125 may determine that sufficient attenuation is present based on the expected noise exposure determined from the investigation.

[0109] In operation O506, the interface device 120 may receive a selection of hearing protection (HP). For example, UI225 may display different types of hearing protection, and the user may make a selection from different types.

[0110] In operation O508, the interface device 120 may display a hearing protection training interface. For example, the hearing protection training interface may correspond to a selected hearing protection device and / or include general hearing protection device information (e.g., regarding the external auditory canal).

[0111] In operation O510, the headset 125 and interface device 120 may perform response training by displaying a response interface on the interface device 120 and / or outputting highly reliable stimuli for the user to respond. The headset 125 and interface device 120 may determine whether the user passed or failed the response training (e.g., no response or inconsistent response). If the user failed the response training, the system may retry the training. If the user failed again, the system may reroute the user to administrator assistance.

[0112] In some cases, the headset 125 and interface device 120 do not need to perform an unoccluded test to obtain unoccluded data about the user (for example, they already have unoccluded data or results from a hearing test about the user). In this case, in operation O512, the headset 125 may use these prior results to estimate unoccluded data about the user.

[0113] In some cases, the headset 125 and interface device 120 may need to perform an unoccluded test to obtain unoccluded data about the user (for example, if they do not yet have fresh unoccluded data about the user). In this case, in operation O514, the headset 125 and interface device 120 may perform an unoccluded test to obtain unoccluded data about the user. For example, the system may perform a hearing test to determine the unoccluded data. If the user fails the unoccluded test, the system may retry the unoccluded test. If the user fails again, the system may reroute the user to administrator assistance.

[0114] In operation O516, the headset 125 and interface device 120 may perform an occlusion test. Operations O518 to O532 may be exemplary operations for performing an occlusion test.

[0115] In some cases, the headset 125 may determine, while administering a second stimulus sequence for the fitting test, that the hearing protection is improperly fitted to the user in response to specific frequencies and amplitudes, before determining the fitting test results. In response to determining that the hearing protection is improperly fitted to the user, the headset 125 may cause the interface device 120 to output (e.g., display) instructions to adjust the hearing protection before continuing the hearing protection fitting test, or to seek assistance from an administrator.

[0116] In operation O518, the interface device 120 may instruct the user to insert a hearing protector. In operation O520, the headset 125 may output a first set of stimuli. Based on the user response (or lack thereof), the headset 125 may determine whether the user has passed the first set of stimuli, whether the user has sufficient PAR, or whether the user has insufficient PAR.

[0117] For example, the first set of stimuli may have a frequency of 500 Hz. As an example, suppose the user needs to achieve a PAR of 18 dB. Based on statistics, headset 125 may determine that if the user achieves a 9 dB (or less) attenuation at 500 Hz, the user is unlikely to achieve an 18 dB PAR. Such low performance indicates that the test should be interrupted so that the user can try readjusting the hearing protection or trying a different model of hearing protection. Conversely, if the user achieves a 25 dB or greater attenuation, the user is likely to have achieved an 18 dB PAR, and the test may be interrupted (i.e., can proceed directly to O532, which is a sufficient PAR). If the user achieves an attenuation between these two extreme values, additional frequency testing may be required to determine whether the required PAR has been met.

[0118] In operation O528, in response to passing the first set of stimuli, the headset 125 may output a second set of stimuli. Based on the user response (or lack thereof), the headset 125 may determine whether the user has passed the second set of stimuli, whether the user has sufficient PAR, or whether the user has insufficient PAR.

[0119] For example, the second set of stimuli could have a frequency of 1000 Hz. Headset 125 may determine that the user has an insufficient PAR if the A-weighted attenuation for 0.5 and 1.0 kHz is less than 12 dB. Conversely, if the user achieves attenuation of more than 25 dB, it is highly likely that they have achieved an 18 dB PAR, and the test may be stopped (i.e., they can proceed directly to O532, which is an sufficient PAR). For example, statistically, it is unlikely that the user has achieved an 18 dB sufficient PAR.

[0120] In operation O530, in response to passing the second set of stimuli, the headset 125 may output a third set of stimuli. Based on the user response (or lack thereof), the headset 125 may determine whether the user has passed the third set of stimuli or whether the user has insufficient PAR. In operation O532, in response to passing the third set of stimuli, the headset 125 may determine that the user has sufficient PAR.

[0121] For example, the third set of stimuli could have a frequency of 2000 Hz. Headset 125 may determine that the user has an insufficient PAR if the A-weighted attenuation for 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 kHz is less than 19 dB. For example, based on statistics, it is unlikely that the user will achieve a sufficient PAR of 18 dB.

[0122] In operation O522, in response to the user having an insufficient PAR (from O520, O528, or O530), the headset 125 may determine whether this is the user's first failure to pass the occlusion test.

[0123] In operation O524, in response to determining that this is the user's first failure to pass the occlusion test, the system may display the user's hearing protection and / or a retraining interface to assist with the test. The system may then proceed to retry the occlusion test in operation 518.

[0124] In operation O526, in response to determining that this is not the user's first failure to pass the blockage test (for example, a second or subsequent failure), the system may refer the user to an administrator for assistance. The system may then proceed to retry the blockage test in operation 518.

[0125] In Figures 6A and 6B, Figures 600A and 600B may show graphical user interfaces 602, 604, 606, 608, 610, and 612 for guiding the user before, during, and after the fitting test. Figures 600A and 600B may begin with a first instruction interface 602. The first instruction interface 602 may include graphics and / or instructions on how to put on the hearing protection device.

[0126] The interface device 120 may proceed to display the test interface 604. The interface device 120 may proceed to display the test interface 604 in response to user input indicating that the user is ready to continue the test. The test interface 604 may include a start / pause UI element 604A and a response UI element 604B. The start / pause UI element 604A may be user-selectable to start / pause the test sequence. The response UI element 604B may be user-selectable to indicate that the user has perceived a stimulus output by the headset 125. The interface device 120 may send a message to the headset 125 in response to user input to either the start / pause UI element 604A or the response UI element 604B. The headset 125 may start / pause the test in response to a message indicating start / pause. The headset 125 may record a response in response to a message indicating a response to a stimulus. The headset 125 and the interface device 120 can work together to complete a wear test, with the headset 125 outputting a stimulus (e.g., an audio output for an air conduction test or a vibration output for a bone conduction test), and the interface device 120 sending a response to the headset 125 based on the user's interaction with the responsive UI element 604B. After the wear test is completed, the headset 125 may send a final result message to the interface device 120. The final result message may indicate that the wear test was passed (e.g., sufficient attenuation) or failed (e.g., insufficient attenuation).

[0127] The interface device 120 may proceed to display either a pass interface 606 (sequence A) or a fail interface 608 (sequence B) according to the display contained in the final result message from the headset 125. The pass interface 606 may display graphics and / or data related to the fitting test (for example, the level of attenuation that the hearing protection device provides to the user). In the case of sequence A, the interface device 120 may proceed to terminate the fitting test.

[0128] The failure interface 608 may display graphics and / or data relating to the fitting test (e.g., the level (or lack thereof) of attenuation provided by the hearing protection to the user). In sequence B, the interface device 120 may proceed to display a first instruction interface 610 and / or a second instruction interface 612. The first instruction interface 610 and / or the second instruction interface 612 may contain different graphics and / or instructions on how to fit the hearing protection. The interface device 120 may proceed to point C. Point C may instruct the user to retry the fitting test by displaying the test interface 604 and performing the fitting test again.

[0129] In Figure 7A, data flow 700A can determine the PAR for the user by performing a series of operations.

[0130] In operation O702, the headset 125 can predict the occlusion threshold 704. For example, the headset 125 can predict the occlusion threshold 704 based on the user's audiogram 702 and the real ear attenuation ("REAT") value at the threshold of the hearing protection device selected for the fitting test.

[0131] In operation O704, the headset 125 (in conjunction with the interface device 120) may test a first stimulus sequence 706 (e.g., an audible output for air conduction or a vibrational output for bone conduction). The first stimulus sequence 706 may be selected (e.g., by pseudo-random selection) above and below a predicted occlusion threshold 704. The headset 125 may obtain a response (or no response) (via the interface device 120) for the absence, presence, or presence of multiple first stimulus sequences 706. Based on the response (or no response) and the first stimulus sequences 706, the headset 125 may determine a response dataset.

[0132] In operation O706, the headset 125 may determine a threshold map 708. For example, the headset 125 may determine a likelihood map using a Gaussian process and a response dataset. The Gaussian process may determine multiple likelihoods based on the response dataset. Each of the multiple likelihoods corresponds to a point in the frequency and level space above or below the user's occlusion threshold (e.g., stimulus level in dB for sound output for air conduction or vibration output for bone conduction). The threshold map 708 may include a first region 708A, a second region 708B, and a third region 708C. The first region 708A may correspond to a high-confidence likelihood (e.g., above threshold confidence) where the frequency / level is below the user's hearing threshold. The second region 708B may correspond to an uncertain region (e.g., confidence likelihood is below threshold confidence). In this case, the headset 125 may determine that there is insufficient available data to form a high-confidence likelihood. The third domain 708C may correspond to a high-confidence likelihood (e.g., above threshold confidence) that the frequency / level exceeds the user's hearing threshold.

[0133] In operation O708, the headset 125 may test a second stimulus sequence and re-evaluate the threshold map 708. For example, the headset 125 may select and test the point 710 (frequency and level) with the highest uncertainty as the next stimulus (e.g., sound output in air conduction or vibration output in bone conduction). In some cases, the headset 125 may iteratively select and test point 710 and re-evaluate the threshold map 708 based on the updated response dataset before testing the next point. In some cases, the headset 125 may select two or more points (e.g., multiple points) to test, test two or more points, and re-evaluate the threshold map 708 based on the updated response dataset. In this way, the wear test may reduce test time by testing the points with the highest uncertainty, thereby reducing the second region in an efficient manner. In some cases, the wear test process may reduce test time by avoiding additional presentations to discover the user's occlusion threshold. For example, the wear test may save two or more presentations (approximately 5-10 seconds or more of test time). While the time savings may not be significant for a single test or user, over thousands or millions of tests, the total time saved can be substantial. This cumulative time savings can be particularly valuable for large organizations (e.g., manufacturing, military, or other high-noise-risk occupations).

[0134] In operation O710, the headset 125 may determine that the stopping condition has been met. For example, the headset 125 may determine that the stopping condition has been met when a predetermined number of stimuli have been presented, and the second region (sampled over a frequency / level range relative to the second region) is less than a width threshold, or the area of ​​the second region is less than a threshold area. The width threshold may be a predetermined (or dynamic) range of stimulus levels (e.g., 5dB, 4dB, 3dB, 2dB, 1dB, or 0.5dB). For example, the headset 125 may determine that the distance between the first region and the third region at a pre-selected frequency (e.g., 250Hz, 500Hz, 1000Hz, 2000Hz, 4000Hz, etc.) is all less than the width threshold.

[0135] In operation O712, the headset 125 may determine occlusion data. Occlusion data may include, for example, an occlusion threshold (e.g., discrete points) or a function (e.g., a curve or partition function) that describes the threshold boundary of hearing for the user when the user's ear canal is occluded. For example, the headset 125 may determine the occlusion threshold 712 by selecting the point having the lowest level (e.g., the smallest dB) in a third region at a pre-selected frequency.

[0136] In some cases, operations O702–O712 may be used to determine non-occlusive data. In this case, operation O702 may predict the non-occlusive threshold 704 from prior testing, or it may use a default predicted hearing range considering the user's biographic data (e.g., age, occupation, etc.). Operations O704–O712 may proceed in a similar manner, but in operation O712, the headset 125 may determine non-occlusive data.

[0137] In operation O714, the headset 125 may acquire non-occlusive data. Non-occlusive data may include non-occlusive thresholds (e.g., discrete points) or functions (e.g., curves or partition functions) that describe the threshold boundary of hearing for the user when the user's ear canal is not occluded. Non-occlusive data may be acquired from prior tests (e.g., tests immediately preceding the fitting test) or from historical data (e.g., from the last hearing test or fitting test completed by the user within the threshold time).

[0138] In operation O716, the headset 125 can determine the frequency attenuation for a pre-selected frequency 714. For example, the headset 125 can determine the frequency attenuation for a pre-selected frequency by subtracting the unblocked data from the blocked data at each of the pre-selected frequencies. For example, the headset 125 can determine the frequency attenuation for each frequency by subtracting the unblocked threshold (the unblocked threshold as discrete points, or the unblocked thresholds of each function, or a combination thereof) from the blocked threshold at each frequency.

[0139] In some cases, the headset 125 may determine a stimulus sequence (for a fit test) based on a first set of one or more user responses (from an audiometry test). For example, the first set of one or more user responses may determine the unoccluded threshold. The headset 125 may also determine a fit test result (e.g., PAR) based on the first set of one or more user responses (e.g., the unoccluded threshold) and a second set of one or more user responses from a fit test (e.g., the occluded threshold).

[0140] In operation O718, the headset 125 may determine the PAR for the user based on frequency attenuation for a pre-selected frequency 714. For example, the headset 125 may determine the PAR by combining attenuation between frequencies (pre-selected frequencies) and express it as a single value. The PAR may be used to evaluate whether the hearing protection provides sufficient attenuation (e.g., a PAR value that satisfies the PAR condition, e.g., a threshold PAR value).

[0141] In Figure 7B, Chart 700B can show the response dataset over time. In the chart on the left, the first stimulus sequence 716 is graphed at different points. Point 716A indicates no response, and point 716B indicates a response. In the chart on the right, the second stimulus sequence 718 is graphed at different points than the first stimulus sequence 716. Point 718A indicates no response, and point 718B indicates a response.

[0142] Bone conduction test Figures 8A-8C illustrate the characteristics of bone conduction testing. The characteristics of bone conduction testing in Figures 8A-8C can be applied to Figures 1, 2A-2B, 3A-3E, 4A-4B, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 9, 10, 11A-11E, 12, and 13.

[0143] Figure 8A shows Figure 800A of the external features of the bone conduction headset 125. Figure 8B shows Figure 800B of the external component features of the bone conduction headset 125. The bone conduction headset 125 includes the same components as shown in Figure 4A (e.g., support structure 402, ear cup pair 404, and cable 406), but also includes bone conduction support structure 802, bone conduction body 804, and bone conduction body cable 806. In some cases, the bone conduction headset 125 also includes a pressure monitor 808. Generally, the bone conduction body 804 can be controlled from a program board 800C (see Figure 8C) (e.g., it can be driven by an analog signal).

[0144] In some cases, the bone conduction cable 806 may be omitted. In these cases, the bone conduction body 804 may include all or some of the components of the first audiometer stack (e.g., the program board, battery, wireless communication transceiver, and analog output) and drive the bone conduction body 804 (while the first and second audiometer stacks each drive one or both of their respective speakers). In some cases, the bone conduction body 804 and the first and second audiometer stacks may each receive instructions from the interface device 120 and adjust the stimuli output between them.

[0145] Figure 8C shows the program board 800C of the bone conduction headset 125. The program board 800C may include a controller and memory 814, a power interface 816, a communication module 818, a voltage module 820, an output filter 822, an input filter 824, an ADC and DAC converter 826, and a power supply circuit 828.

[0146] The bone conduction support structure 802 may include a headband 802A and an adjustment mechanism 802B. The adjustment mechanism 802B may include a Velcro® / elastic rubber headband or a twist mechanism for tightening / loosening the headband 802A. The twist mechanism allows a gear tooth at one end of the headband 80A to move more tightly / loosely in a ratchet-like manner. The gear tooth may be internalized for safety and / or comfort. Thus, the bone conduction support structure 802 may be configured to hold a bone conduction body 804 on the user's head. The bone conduction support structure 802 may be configured to be adjustable to apply a variable fit and / or a certain amount of contact pressure between the bone conduction body 804 and the user's head.

[0147] The bone conductor 804 may be coupled to the user's head (via the bone conductor support structure 802). The bone conductor 804 may transmit physical vibrations to the user's head (e.g., via a transducer). If the bone conduction headset 125 includes a pressure monitor 808, the pressure monitor 808 may be positioned between the bone conductor 804 and the user's head. In some cases, the pressure monitor 808 may be connected to a light or speaker to output a signal when a threshold contact pressure is applied between the bone conductor and the user's head. For example, the threshold contact pressure may be sufficient for a hearing / wear test.

[0148] The bone conduction cable 806 may include a first portion 806A and a second portion 806B. The first portion 806A may be coupled to the program board 800C (see Figure 8C) via a hole 810 in the case 416. The second portion 806B may be coupled to the first portion 806A and the bone conduction body 804, for example, via an audio jack. In some cases, the bone conduction body 804 is configured to be electronically connected via the bone conduction cable 806 to a first audiometer stack of the earcup pair 404 (where the program board 800C is located).

[0149] The controller and memory 814 may correspond to the aforementioned firmware or control electronics. The controller and memory 814 may determine the stimulus sequence to be output by the speaker and / or bone conduction body. The power interface 816 is connected to the charging hole 424 and may supply power to the battery system 426. The power circuit 828 may distribute power from the battery system 426.

[0150] The communication module 818 may include network I / O for Bluetooth communication. For example, the communication module 818 may include a Bluetooth Low Energy module and a Bluetooth audio module.

[0151] The voltage module 820 may output a dynamic range for each of at least two analog outputs. The dynamic range output may be configured to be a pure tone or a more complex stimulus (e.g., narrowband noise, speech, etc.).

[0152] The output filter 822 can receive an analog signal from the DAC 826, manage the signal quality, and output the filtered signal to the voltage module 820. The input filter 824 can receive an analog signal from the microphone, manage the signal quality, and input the filtered analog signal to the ADC 826.

[0153] The DAC826 can convert digital commands (for stimulation) from the controller and memory 814 into output analog signals to be filtered by the output filter 822. The ADC826 converts the filtered analog signal (from the microphone) into digital data.

[0154] In some cases, the first audiometer stack may include a first analog output, a second analog output, and a third analog output. The first analog output may drive a first speaker associated with the first audiometer stack. The second analog output may drive a second speaker associated with a second audiometer stack. The third analog output may drive a bone conduction device.

[0155] In some cases, the third analog output may differ from the first and second analog outputs. In some cases, the first, second, and third analog outputs are configured to output their respective dynamic ranges. In some cases, the first, second, and third analog outputs are configured to be driven separately. In some cases, the third analog output has a different dynamic range than the first and second analog outputs. In some cases, the dynamic range of the third analog output is smaller than that of the first and second analog outputs. In some cases, the upper limit of the dynamic range of the third analog output is lower than that of the first and second analog outputs.

[0156] Masking during testing Figure 9 shows a flowchart 900 for masking during a hearing test. The flowchart 900 for masking during a hearing test in Figure 9 may be applied to Figures 1, 2A-2B, 3A-3E, 4A-4B, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8A-8C, 10, 11A-11E, 12, and 13. The flowchart 900 may be performed by the headset 125 before / during the hearing test according to the following actions.

[0157] In some cases, the headset 125 may determine that the user has asymmetric auditory abilities. For example, the headset 125 may determine asymmetric auditory abilities based on a first set of one or more user responses from an audiometry test (e.g., unobstructed data) and determine a second stimulus sequence for the audiometry test or fit test based on the level of differential hearing. In some cases, the second stimulus sequence for the fit test may include a stimulus for the ear being tested and a masking stimulus for the ear not being tested.

[0158] In some cases, the headset 125 is configured to automatically switch between air conduction and bone conduction tests based on user responses. Air conduction thresholds and bone conduction thresholds are used to diagnose hearing loss. In some cases, the headset 125 may determine, based on user responses during the hearing test or fitting test, that masking is necessary to continue the test.

[0159] In operation 902, the headset 125 may determine the type of test. For example, the headset 125 may receive instruction messages from the administrator device 105 (via the interface device 120) and extract a test ID or test indicator.

[0160] In operation O904, in response to determining that the type of test is an air conduction test (O902:AC), the headset 125 may determine whether the headset 125 has a BC threshold (e.g., an unmasked bone conduction threshold for a pre-selected frequency range).

[0161] In operation O906, in response to the headset 125 determining that it has a BC threshold (O904: true), the headset 125 may determine whether the difference between the BC threshold (for the same given frequency) and the TE threshold (for the same given frequency) (for example, the unmasked air conduction threshold for the ear being tested for a given frequency) is greater than or equal to the interauricular attenuation value. The interauricular attenuation value (IA) may be a high acoustic level at which the untested ear begins to hear the sound when it is played to the ear being tested. Assuming the ear being tested is sufficiently sensitive, the system may mask the stimulus being output to the ear being tested by outputting a stimulus to the untested ear.

[0162] In operation O908, in response to the determination that the headset 125 does not have a BC threshold (O904: false), the headset 125 may determine whether the TE threshold(s) are IA or higher.

[0163] In operation O910, in response to determining that the test type is a bone conduction test (O902:BC), the headset 125 may determine whether the difference between the TE threshold(s) and the BC threshold(s) is greater than 10 dB.

[0164] In operation O912, in response to operations O906, O908, or O910 returning true, the headset 125 may determine to apply masking during the test. In operation O914, in response to operations O906, O908, or O910 returning false, the headset 125 may determine not to apply masking during the test.

[0165] In operation O916, in response to determining that masking should be applied during the test, the headset 125 may apply masking during the test. To apply masking during the test, the headset 125 may perform the following actions (pseudocode). (A) Set the initial masking level and the initial stimulation level. (1) Set the initial masking level to NTE threshold (unmasked AC threshold, the ear not being tested) + 10 dB (or a different offset value, e.g., 5 dB, 15 dB, etc.). For bone conduction tests, add the occlusion effect coefficient as needed. (2) Set the initial stimulus level to the TE threshold. (3) Before starting the test, check whether (initial stimulus level - initial masking level) > IA. If so, set the initial masking level to equal to the initial stimulus level - 40 dB (or different offset values, e.g., 20 dB, 30 dB, etc.). (B) If the subject does not respond (1) If it is the first presentation of the test, or if the user has responded to the previous presentation, the user gets a "second chance." Keep the stimulus level and masking level the same. (2) When B1 does not apply (i) Increase the stimulation level by 5 dB (or different increments, e.g., 2 dB, 7 dB, 10 dB, etc.). (ii) If (masking level) > or = (stimulus level - IA + BC threshold), increase the masking level by 5 dB (or different increments, e.g., 2 dB, 7 dB, 10 dB, etc.). (C) If the subject responds (1) Increase the masking level by 5 dB (or different increasing masking values, e.g., 2 dB, 7 dB, 10 dB, etc.). The stimulus level does not increase. (D) The test ends when one of the following occurs. (1) If the user responds three times in a row (including a "second chance" response). Result: Masked threshold = stimulus level of the last presentation. (2) If the masking level exceeds 85 dB (or other maximum values, e.g., 80 dB, 90 dB, etc.). Result: The masked threshold cannot be determined (system limitation). Flag for administrator. (3) If (masking level - IA) > BC threshold. Result: Masked threshold cannot be determined (masking dilemma). Flag for administrator.

[0166] Therefore, in some cases, masking may be applied automatically during air conduction or bone conduction testing without administrator intervention.

[0167] Accelerated threshold determination Figure 10 shows a diagram for accelerated thresholding. The features of the diagram for accelerated thresholding in Figure 10 can be applied to Figures 1, 2A-2B, 3A-3E, 4A-4B, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8A-8C, 9, 11A-11E, 12, and 13. The diagram shows various sets of presentations for stimulus sequences according to various audiometry processes. In particular, the diagram shows a first stimulus sequence 1002 presented according to the Hughson-Westlake procedure and a second stimulus sequence 1004 presented according to the accelerated thresholding procedure.

[0168] Generally, the Hughson-Westlake procedure can adjust the stimulus level (dB, relative to a given frequency) in a linear trend at regular intervals (e.g., 15dB, 10dB, or 5dB) until a change in user response occurs, then the linear trend reverses (and the interval can be adjusted until the linear trend reverses again). For example, the first stimulus sequence 1002 may exhibit a first linear trend of presentations 1002A (response), 1002B (response), and 1000C (no response), followed by a trend reversal, and a second linear trend of presentations 1002D (no response), 1002E (no response), and 1002F (response), followed by a trend reversal, and a third linear trend of presentation 1002G (no response), followed by a trend reversal, and a fourth trend of presentations 1002H (no response) and 1002I (response). The first linear trend may have a constant interval of 15 dB, the second linear trend may have a constant interval of 5 dB, the third linear trend may have a constant interval of 10 dB, and the fourth linear trend may have a constant interval of 5 dB. In this way, the Hughson-Westlake procedure can discover the user's auditory ability (for example, a threshold of 15 dB) by linear trends at constant intervals.

[0169] In contrast, accelerated thresholding procedures can adjust stimulus levels (dB, relative to a given frequency) at variable intervals until a change in user response occurs, thereby discovering the user's auditory ability with fewer presentations. In some cases, accelerated thresholding procedures may determine to place portions of a stimulus sequence at variable intervals across levels (e.g., amplitude ranges) relative to a given frequency.

[0170] For example, an accelerated thresholding procedure may utilize digital electronics to select a variable level (as opposed to hardware electronics with a fixed minimum interval). For instance, an accelerated thresholding procedure may begin with a presentation 1004A (response) at a high confidence level (e.g., 30 dB) for a certain frequency, and then subsequently adjust the level based on the response (or no response) and variable interval. For example, presentation 1004B (10dB, no response, interval -20dB from the previous presentation), presentation 1004C (20dB, response, interval +10dB from the previous presentation), presentation 1004D (12dB, no response, interval -8dB from the previous presentation), presentation 1004E (17dB, response, interval +5dB from the previous presentation), presentation 1004F (13dB, no response, interval -4dB from the previous presentation), and presentation 1004G (14dB, response, interval +1dB from the previous presentation). In some cases, the variable interval may decrease as the user response changes, and therefore, if the procedure records a variety of user responses, the boundary of auditory ability may be discovered more quickly. In the diagram, the accelerated threshold determination procedure can determine that auditory ability (e.g., hearing threshold) is 13.5 dB because the size of the variable interval has been reduced from 20 dB (from presentation 1004A to 1004B) to 1 dB (from presentation 1004F to 1004G). In some cases, the variable interval may present stimuli further away from the expected threshold to ensure that the examinee responds as expected. For example, the procedure may present stimuli further away from the expected threshold to capture the user's attention and keep them focused on the task. In some cases, the procedure may numerically remove the result closest to the threshold to avoid the possibility that these responses could have been accidental (i.e., the user responded when they should not have, or failed to respond when they should have). Because users can make mistakes, the procedure is designed to be robust against user error or mistakes.

[0171] In this way, each hearing test can be shortened by avoiding additional presentations to discover the user's hearing threshold. For example, in the diagram, accelerated threshold determination can save two presentations (approximately 5-10 seconds of test time) for a given frequency. While this may not be a significant time saving for a single test or user, the total time saved can be substantial over thousands or millions of tests. The total time saved can be particularly valuable for large organizations (e.g., manufacturing, military, or other noise-risk occupations).

[0172] Graphical user interface for testing Figures 11A-11E and 12 show the graphical user interface on the administrator device 105 and the interface device 120. The graphical user interface on the administrator device 105 and the interface device 120 in Figures 11A-11E and 12 can be applied to Figures 1, 2A-2B, 3A-3E, 4A-4B, 5A-5C, 6A-6B, 7A-7B, 8A-8C, 9, 10, and 13.

[0173] Figures 11A–11E show the graphical user interfaces for automated testing, specifically Figures 1100A, 1100B, 1100C, 1100D, and 1100E.

[0174] In Figure 1100A, the administrator device 105 may output a sequence of graphical user interfaces. The graphical user interfaces may include a setup interface 1100A-1, a hardware check interface 1100A-2, and a calibration check interface 1100A-3.

[0175] The setup interface 1100A-1 can display connected interface devices 120 and connected headsets 125 in system fields 1106 and 1108, respectively. Therefore, the administrator device 105 can be configured to manage multiple hearing tests or fitting tests for multiple users. In some cases, the administrator device 105 can be configured to manage multiple hearing tests or fitting tests in an asynchronous manner. In some cases, the administrator device 105 can be configured to manage multiple hearing tests or fitting tests in a synchronous manner.

[0176] System fields 1106 and 1108 may display information about connected devices (e.g., battery life, connection strength, etc.) and UI elements for initiating hardware checks and / or calibration checks for individual connected devices. Setup interface 1100A-1 may also include UI elements for initiating hardware checks 1102 and / or calibration checks 1104 for all connected devices. In some cases, setup interface 1100A-1 may also display warnings (if applicable) about connected devices. System fields 1106 and 1108 may also include a test-taker UI element 1107. The test-taker UI element 1107 may be selectable by the user / administrator to select or enter a user assigned to take the test using the headset 125.

[0177] Hardware check interface 1100A-2 may be a hardware check interface. An administrator device 105 (or interface device 120) may display hardware check interface 1100A-2 in response to user input, for example, on administrator device 105, to select a UI element for initiating a hardware check (e.g., hardware check 1102). Hardware check interface 1100A-2 may display graphics (e.g., diagrams) and / or instructions to guide the user / administrator through the hardware check. Hardware check interface 1100A-2 may also include UI elements 1110, 1112, and 1114. UI elements 1110, 1112, and 1114 may be selectable by the user / administrator to indicate that the corresponding hardware components have been checked (e.g., UI element 1110 for cables, UI element 1112 for headband tension, and UI element 1114 for cushions). The administrator device 105 may log hardware data associated with the user's test and / or previous hardware data for the headset 125. When the hardware check interface 1100A-2 is displayed by the interface device 120, user input to UI elements 1110, 1112, and 1114 may be sent to the administrator device 105 or stored locally (until later relayed to the administrator device 105).

[0178] Calibration check interface 1100A-3 may be a calibration check interface. The administrator device 105 (or interface device 120) may display the calibration check interface 1100A-3 in response to user input, for example, on the administrator device 105, to select a UI element for starting a calibration check (for example, calibration check 1104). The calibration check interface 1100A-3 may display graphics (for example, data) and / or instructions to guide the user / administrator for calibration. The calibration check interface 1100A-3 may also include a UI element 1116. The UI element 1116 may be selectable by the user / administrator to start the calibration process. The administrator device 105 may log current calibration data and / or previous calibration data for the headset 125 related to the user's test. When the calibration check interface 1100A-3 is displayed by the administrator device 105, user input to the UI element 1116 may cause the administrator device 105 to send an instruction message to the interface device 120, which in turn causes the interface device 120 to send an instruction message to the headset 125 to perform calibration. When the calibration check interface 1100A-3 is displayed by the interface device 120, user input to the UI element 1116 may cause the interface device 120 to send an instruction message to the headset 125 to perform calibration. In response to receiving an instruction message to perform calibration, the headset 125 may perform a predetermined sequence of actions to calibrate the headset 125, determine the calibration data, and send the calibration data to the interface device 120. The interface device 120 may receive the calibration data from the headset 125. The interface device 120 may then send the calibration data to the administrator device 105 (until it is later relayed to the administrator device 105) or store the calibration data locally.

[0179] In Figure 1100B, the administrator device 105 may display the candidate assignment interface 1100B-1 in response to user input selecting a candidate UI element 1107. The candidate assignment interface 1100B-1 may display a list of users 1118 for the test. The list of users 1118 may be selectable by user input to indicate which users will be tested on the corresponding headset 125. The administrator device 105 may obtain the list of users based on user input or data from the server 115, etc. In some cases, the administrator device 105 may input user data to assign users to the headset 125 for the test. In response to a user being selected / input for the headset 125 1120, the administrator device 105 may send an instruction message to the interface device 120 associated with (e.g., connected to) the headset 125 for the test. The instruction message may contain user data. The interface device 120 may then display the welcome interface 1100B-2.

[0180] The welcome interface 1100B-2 may display data and / or instructions (for example, of the user). The welcome interface 1100B-2 may also display a first confirmation UI element 1122 and a second confirmation UI element 1124. The first confirmation UI element 1122 may be user-selectable to indicate that the user corresponds to data displayed on the welcome interface 1100B-2. The second confirmation UI element 1124 may be user-selectable to indicate that the user does not correspond to data displayed on the welcome interface 1100B-2. The administrator device 105 may log (or not log) the confirmation in association with the user's test. For example, the interface device 120 may send the confirmation data to the administrator device 105 (until it is later relayed to the administrator device 105) or store the confirmation data locally.

[0181] In Figure 1100C, the administrator device 105 may display a first evaluation interface 1100C-1, and then a second evaluation interface 1100C-2. The first evaluation interface 1100C-1 may display a list of tests 1126 that the headset 125 can be configured to perform on the user. The list of tests 1126 may be user-selectable for selecting a test 1128 to perform. In response to user / administrator input selecting a test 1128 to perform, the administrator device 105 may display the test on the second evaluation interface 1100C-2 and proceed to send a directive message to the interface device 120. The directive message may indicate the selected test 1128 to perform and any relevant data (e.g., previous tests, user data, etc.). The interface device 120 may receive, process, and relay the directive message to the headset 125. For example, interface device 120 may display a test interface 604 (having a start / pause UI element 604A and a response UI element 604B) (having a start / pause UI element 604A and a response UI element 604B). In some cases, interface device 120 may display the test interface 604 after user input indicates that the user is ready, or after headset 125 sends an acknowledgment that headset 125 is ready. Interface device 120 may start the test by sending an instruction to headset 125 in response to user input selecting the start / pause UI element 604A (for example, to start the test). Interface device 120 may send a message to headset 125 in response to user input for either the start / pause UI element 604A or the response UI element 604B. Headset 125 may start / pause the test in response to a message indicating start / pause. Headset 125 may record a response in response to a message indicating a response to a stimulus.The headset 125 and the interface device 120 can work together to complete a selected test (e.g., a fitting test or a hearing test) by having the headset 125 output a stimulus (e.g., an audio output for an air conduction test or a vibration output for a bone conduction test) and the interface device 120 sending a response to the headset 125 based on the user's interaction with the responsive UI element 604B. After the selected test is completed, the headset 125 may send a final result message to the interface device 120. The final result message may include data and results of the selected test ("test dataset"), for example, whether the fitting test was passed (e.g., sufficient attenuation) or failed (e.g., insufficient attenuation).

[0182] The second evaluation interface 1100C-2 may display connected interface devices 120 and connected headsets 125 being tested with the user in system fields 1130 and 1132, respectively. System fields 1130 and 1132 may display information about the connected devices (e.g., battery life, connection strength, etc.) and UI elements. System fields 1130 and 1132 may also include status indicators 1134 and communication UI elements 1136.

[0183] The status indicator 1134 may indicate the progress of the test for a particular user / headset 125. The administrator device 105 may update the status indicator 1134 via the interface device 120 based on intermediate results sent from the headset 125. In some cases, the status indicator 1134 may indicate test milestones (e.g., training, testing, test completed). In some cases, the status indicator 1134 (or system fields 1130 and 1132) may indicate specific data (e.g., stimulus sequence, response, response time, etc.) regarding the aspect of the test the user is currently performing.

[0184] The communication UI element 1136 may be selectable by the user / administrator to launch a communication application. The communication application may be a text and / or voice communication interface between the administrator device 105, the interface device 120, and the headset 125 (e.g., one or the other, or switchable by the administrator). If the communication application is configured for text communication, the administrator device 105 may send / receive / display text messages to / from the interface device 120, and the interface device 120 may send / receive / display text messages to / from the administrator device 105. If the communication application is configured for voice communication, the administrator device 105 may send voice data to the headset 125 via the interface device 120 to instruct, notify, or alert the user. In some cases, the headset 125 may automatically listen for user voice responses (e.g., in response to receiving voice data from the interface device via the microphone) and send voice data to the administrator device 105 via the interface device 120.

[0185] In some cases, the interface device 120, the headset 125, and the administrator device 105 form a wireless connection using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication. In some cases, the administrator device 105 may be configured to remotely connect to the interface device 120 via a secure server connection (via server 115). In some cases, the administrator device 105 may be configured to connect to the interface device 120 via a direct Wi-Fi connection.

[0186] In some cases, the wireless connection between the interface device 120, the headset 125, and the administrator device 105 is a Bluetooth Low Energy connection. If the communication application is configured for voice communication, the administrator device 105 may be configured to change the wireless connection (from Bluetooth Low Energy) to standard Bluetooth communication in response to receiving administrator user input on the administrator device 105 for voice transmission to the headset 125. The administrator device 105 may then proceed to transmit the voice data to the headset 125 via the interface device 120 through standard Bluetooth communication.

[0187] In Figure 1100D, the interface device 120 may display either a first result interface 1100D-1 or a second result interface 1100D-2. The interface device 120 may display either the first result interface 1100D-1 or the second result interface 1100D-2 based on the final result message received from the headset 125. The first result interface 1100D-1 corresponds to a hearing test and may display data and / or graphics related to the hearing test (e.g., presented stimulus, user response, threshold, etc.). The second result interface 1100D-2 corresponds to a fitting test and may display data and / or graphics related to the fitting test (e.g., presented stimulus, user response, threshold, frequency attenuation, etc.), and an indicator that the attenuation of the hearing protection is sufficient (or insufficient). Both the first result interface 1100D-1 and the second result interface 1100D-2 may include a signature UI element 1138. The signature UI element 1138 may be user-selectable to allow the user to enter a mark (e.g., stylus or text input) to confirm that the user is the user for this test. In response to user input on the signature UI element 1138, the interface device 120 may send signature data to the administrator device 105. The administrator device 105 may log the signature data and test dataset (reported together with or separately from the signature data) in relation to the user's test. For example, the interface device 120 may send the signature data and test dataset to the administrator device 105, or it may store the signature data and test dataset locally (until it is later relayed to the administrator device 105).

[0188] In Figure 1100E, the administrator device 105 may display the report interface 1100E-1, and the interface device 120 may display the termination test interface 1100E-2. For example, the interface device 120 may display the termination test interface 1100E-2 in response to user input on the signature UI element 1138. The administrator device 105 may display the report interface 1100E-1 in response to the receipt of signature data and / or test datasets. The report interface 1100E-1 may include a list of report types 1140. Each report type in the list of report types 1140 may display data (e.g., report status, number of reports, etc.) and options for managing the report, test dataset, and any associated log data (collectively, "session data"). For example, the administrator device 105 may clear the session data from the administrator device 105 / interface device 120 after the session data has been sent to the server 115 for record-keeping / auditing purposes. The report interface 1100E-1 may also include an export UI element 1142. The export UI element 1142 may be user-selectable to cause the administrator device 105 to send session data to the server 115 or another endpoint (e.g., organization, patient / user, cloud provider, etc.) when ready.

[0189] Figure 12 shows a manual test interface 1200 for administrator testing. The administrator device 105 may display the manual test interface 1200 in response to the selection of a manual administrator test. For example, a user / administrator may select a manual test in the same location as the user (e.g., the same room / geographic location) or remotely from the user, and manually select frequencies / levels for stimuli, masking, the ear to be tested, and the ear not to be tested.

[0190] The manual test interface 1200 may include a graphic element 1202, a stimulus level element 1204, a frequency element 1206, a masking element 1208, an ear element to be tested 1210, a test type element 1212, a response time indicator element 1214, and a response type indicator element 1216.

[0191] The Stimulus Level element 1204 may be user-selectable to adjust the stimulation level (in dB). The Frequency element 1206 may be user-selectable to adjust the stimulation frequency (in Hz). The Graphic element 1202 may display the currently selected level and frequency on the chart. In some cases, the Graphic element 1202 may display the previous presentation of the stimulus (and response or no response). In some cases, the Graphic element 1202 may be user-selectable to adjust the level and frequency by dragging or touching (or clicking) areas of the chart. The Masking element 1208 may be user-selectable (if switched on) to adjust the level (in dB) of the masking stimulus for the ear being tested. The Ear Being Tested element 1210 may be user-selectable to switch which ear is the ear being tested and which is not. The Test Type element 1212 may be user-selectable to switch between air conduction testing and bone conduction testing (if a bone conduction headset is used). Based on user input (or, for example, elapsed time), the administrator device 105 may send instructions to the headset 125 via the interface device 120 to output stimuli according to the selection entered by the administrator. The headset 125 may receive the instructions and output stimuli (and any masking) according to the instructions. The interface device 120 may receive a user response (if the user selects a response UI element 604B) and send a response message to the headset 125. The headset 125 may determine whether the user has responded to the stimulus (for example, if it receives a response message indicating that the user has responded within the response window) and send a result message to the administrator device 105 via the interface device 120. The administrator device 105 may receive the result message.

[0192] The administrator device 105 can determine the response time and response type based on the result message. The response time indicator element 1214 may display the response time, and the response type indicator element 1216 may display the response type (e.g., responded, no response, unreliable). The response type indicator element 1216 may also include UI elements that can be selected by the administrator to record thresholds based on the response. In this way, an administrator using the administrator device 105 can observe the response time / response type even if the video or video conferencing connection is degraded by network latency / connection. Once the manual test is complete, the administrator device 105 may send a test completion instruction to the headset 125 and interface device 120 so that the user / headset 125 / interface device 120 knows that the test is complete. A graphic user interface similar to that described above with respect to Figures 11A-11E may be used before, during, and after the manual test.

[0193] computer system Figure 13 shows an exemplary system capable of performing the techniques presented herein. Figure 13 is a simplified functional block diagram of a computer that may be configured to perform the techniques described herein according to exemplary cases of this disclosure. Specifically, the computer (or, since it may not be a single physical computer infrastructure, “platform”) may include a data communication interface 1360 for packet data communication. The platform may also include a central processing unit (“CPU”) 1320 in the form of one or more processors for executing program instructions. The platform may include an internal communication bus 1310, and the platform may also include program storage and / or data storage (e.g., ROM 1330 and RAM 1340) for various data files to be processed and / or communicated by the platform, although the system 1300 may receive programming and data via network communication. The system 1300 may also include input and output ports 1350 for connecting to input and output devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, monitor, display, etc.). Naturally, to distribute the processing load, various system functions can be implemented across multiple similar platforms. Alternatively, the system can be implemented through appropriate programming on a single computer hardware platform.

[0194] The general description of this disclosure provides a brief general description of the preferred computing environments in which this disclosure may be implemented. In some cases, any of the disclosed systems, methods, and / or graphical user interfaces may be run or implemented by computing systems that are identical or similar to those illustrated and / or described in this disclosure. Although not required, aspects of this disclosure are described in the context of computer executable instructions, such as routines executed by data processing devices (e.g., server computers, wireless devices, and / or personal computers). As those skilled in the art will see, aspects of this disclosure may be practiced using other communication, data processing, or computer system configurations, including: Internet devices, portable devices (including personal digital assistants ("PDAs")), wearable computers, cellular or mobile phones of any kind (including voice-over-IP ("VoIP") phones), dumb terminals, media players, game consoles, virtual reality devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, set-top boxes, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, etc. In fact, terms such as “computer” and “server” are used interchangeably throughout this specification to refer to any of the above-mentioned devices and systems, as well as any data processor.

[0195] Aspects of this disclosure may be embodied in a dedicated computer and / or data processor specifically programmed, configured, and / or constructed to implement one or more of the computer executable instructions described in detail herein. Although aspects of this disclosure (e.g., certain functions) are described as being implemented exclusively on a single device, this disclosure may also be practiced in a distributed environment where functions or modules are shared among heterogeneous processing devices linked through a communication network, such as a local area network ("LAN"), a wide area network ("WAN"), and / or the internet. Similarly, techniques presented herein as involving multiple devices may be implemented on a single device. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may reside in both local and / or remote memory storage devices.

[0196] Aspects of the Disclosure may be stored and / or distributed on non-temporary computer-readable media, such as magnetically or optically readable computer disks, hardwired or pre-programmed chips (e.g., EEPROM semiconductor chips), nanotechnology memory, biological memory, or other data storage media. Alternatively, computer implementation instructions, data structures, screen displays, and other data according to aspects of the Disclosure may be distributed over a period of time over propagating signals on a propagating medium (e.g., electromagnetic waves, sound waves, etc.) via the Internet and / or other networks (including wireless networks), and / or provided over any analog or digital network (packet switching, circuit switching, or other methods).

[0197] The programmatic aspects of technology can typically be thought of as “products” or “manufactured goods,” which are in the form of executable code and / or associated data transmitted or embodied in some type of machine-readable medium. “Storage” type media include some or all of the tangible memory of computers, processors, etc., or their associated modules (e.g., various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives, etc.), which can at any time provide non-temporary storage for software programming. All or part of the software may sometimes be transmitted over the internet or various other communication networks. Such communications can make it possible to load software, for example, from one computer or processor to another, from a management server or host computer on a mobile communication network to a server computer platform, and / or from a server to a mobile device. Therefore, other types of media that can hold software elements include optical, electrical, and electromagnetic waves used over various wireless links, through wired and optical terrestrial communication network networks, across physical interfaces between local devices. Physical elements that transmit such waves (e.g., wired or wireless links, optical links, etc.) can also be considered media that hold software. As used herein, unless limited to non-temporary, tangible “storage” media, terms such as computer or machine “readable media” refer to any medium involved in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

[0198] term The terms used above may be interpreted in the broadest and most appropriate form, even if used in conjunction with a detailed description of a particular example of this disclosure. In fact, while certain terms may even be emphasized above, any terms intended to be interpreted in any restrictive form will be clearly and specifically defined as such in this “Modes for Carrying Out the Invention” section. Both the above general description and the “Modes for Carrying Out the Invention” are illustrative and descriptive only and do not limit the features described in the claims.

[0199] As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “having,” “including,” or other variations thereof are intended to encompass non-exclusive inclusion, meaning that a process, method, article, or apparatus comprising a list of elements may include not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed or specific to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0200] In this disclosure, relative terms such as “about,” “substantially,” “generally,” and “almost” are used to indicate a possible variation of ±10% in the stated values.

[0201] The term “exemplary” is used to mean “example” rather than “ideal.” As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include references to the plural unless the context indicates otherwise. [Examples]

[0202] Exemplary embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein are described in the following numbered paragraphs. A1 A system for hearing tests and fitting tests, the system is It is a headset, and a headset is, Support structure and, A pair of earcups connected by a support structure, wherein each earcup in the pair is A cushion configured to seal the inside of the ear cup from the outside of the ear cup when worn by the user, A hearing meter stack located inside the earcup, An ear cup attenuation structure enclosing a hearing meter stack and connected to a cushion, wherein the ear cup attenuation structure is configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth, and Includes, a pair of ear cups, Including a headset, An interface device configured to wirelessly connect to at least one first audiometer stack of an earcup pair, Equipped with, The system is Outputting a first interface, wherein the first interface includes a first interface element configured to be selectable by a first input for initiating a hearing test. Determining that the first input has selected the first interface element, In response to determining that the first input has selected a first interface element, at least the first audiometer stack is instructed to perform the first stimulus sequence, Receiving a first set of one or more user responses to at least a first subset of a first stimulus sequence, Determining the results of a hearing test based on a first set of one or more user responses, wherein the hearing test results include at least a measure of the user's hearing ability. Outputting a second interface configured to indicate a transition to a hearing protection fitting test, wherein the second interface includes at least a second interface element configured to be selectable by a second input for initiating a hearing protection fitting test. Determining that the second input has selected the second interface element, In response to determining that the second input has selected the second interface element, at least the first audiometer stack is instructed to execute the second stimulus sequence, Receiving a second set of one or more user responses to at least a second subset of a second stimulus sequence, Determining the results of a hearing protection fitting test based on a second set of one or more user responses, wherein the results include an indication of the hearing attenuation achieved by the hearing protection worn by the user during the hearing protection fitting test. A system configured to perform the following actions. A2 The interface device is either a patient device or an administrator device, as described in A1. A3 The first interface of the system described in any of A1-A2 is configured to instruct the user on how to use the system. A4 Each audiometer stack is a system according to any one of A1 to A3, comprising at least a speaker and a mounting structure for mounting the speaker inside an ear cup. A5 The system described in A4, in which the first audiometer stack is connected to the second audiometer stack of the earcup pair. A6 The first audiometer stack is the system described in A5, including control electronics and a wireless communication transceiver. The system described in A6, wherein the control electronics in A7 are configured to receive interface device commands from an interface device via a wireless transceiver and transmit analog signals to each speaker of the first and second audiometer stacks. The system described in A6, wherein the control electronic equipment is configured to transmit data regarding presented stimuli and any user responses to a user device via a wireless transceiver. A9 The system described in A5, wherein the second audiometer stack includes a battery configured to power the first and second audiometer stacks, respectively. A10 The mounting structure is the system described in A4, wherein (a) the speaker and mounting structure are located inside the ear cup so as to provide a gap between the hearing protector and / or the user's ear when applied to the user. A11 Each ear cup damping structure includes an insulating material and a case, as described in any of A1 to A10. A12 The system described in A11, wherein the insulating material is configured to attenuate high-frequency noise from outside the earcup. The A13 case is configured to attenuate low-frequency noise from outside the earcup, as described in the A11 system. A14 The system as described in A13, wherein the case includes side walls extending away from the cushion and end walls surrounding the side walls, the end walls being curved in at least one dimension to reduce resonance with stimuli from the speakers of the audiometer stack. A15 A system described in any of A1-A14 in which one or more user responses are based on input from a user on a patient device or input from an administrator on an administrator device. The A16 system is further configured to determine a portion of a first stimulus sequence based on a portion of a first set of one or more user responses, as described in any of A1 to A15. The A17 system is further configured to determine a second stimulus sequence based on a first set of one or more user responses, and to determine the wear test result based on the first set of one or more user responses and the second set of one or more user responses, as described in any of A1 to A16. The A18 system according to any one of A1 to A17, further configured to determine, based on a first set of one or more user responses, that the user has asymmetric auditory ability greater than a threshold level, and to determine a second stimulus sequence based on the difference in auditory level. The A19 system is further configured to determine, while a second stimulus sequence is being administered, that the hearing protection is improperly fitted to the user in response to a specific frequency and amplitude, before determining the results of the hearing protection fitting test, and to output an instruction to adjust the hearing protection before continuing the hearing protection fitting test, as described in any of A1 to A18. A20 A method for hearing tests and fitting tests, the method is: Outputting a first interface, wherein the first interface includes a first interface element configured to be selectable by a first input for initiating a hearing test. Determining that the first input has selected the first interface element, In response to determining that the first input has selected a first interface element, instruct at least the first audiometer stack of the audiometer stack pair to perform the first stimulus sequence, Receiving a first set of one or more user responses to at least a first subset of a first stimulus sequence, Determining the results of a hearing test based on a first set of one or more user responses, wherein the hearing test results include at least a measure of the user's hearing ability. Outputting a second interface configured to indicate a transition to a hearing protection fitting test, wherein the second interface includes at least a second interface element configured to be selectable by a second input for initiating a hearing protection fitting test. Determining that the second input has selected the second interface element, In response to determining that the second input has selected the second interface element, at least the first audiometer stack is instructed to execute the second stimulus sequence, Receiving a second set of one or more user responses to at least a second subset of a second stimulus sequence, Determining the results of a hearing protection fitting test based on a second set of one or more user responses, wherein the results include an indication of the acoustic attenuation achieved by the hearing protection worn by the user during the hearing protection fitting test. Methods that include... B1 A system for bone conduction hearing tests or wearable tests, wherein the system is It is a headset, and a headset is, Support structure and, A pair of earcups connected by a support structure, wherein each earcup in the pair is A cushion configured to seal the inside of the ear cup from the outside of the ear cup when worn by the user, A hearing meter stack located inside the earcup, An ear cup attenuation structure enclosing a hearing meter stack and connected to a cushion, wherein the ear cup attenuation structure is configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth, and Includes, a pair of ear cups, A bone conduction body is mounted on the user's head and configured to be electronically connected to a first audiometer stack of earcups, wherein a second audiometer stack of earcups is electronically connected to the first audiometer stack. Including a headset, An interface device configured to wirelessly connect to a first audiometer stack, transmit instructions to the first audiometer stack, and receive data from the first audiometer stack, Equipped with, The first audiometer stack includes a first analog output, a second analog output, and a third analog output. The first analog output drives a first speaker associated with a first audiometer stack. The second analog output drives a second speaker, which is associated with a second audiometer stack. The third analog output drives the bone conduction body. The third analog output is a system distinct from the first and second analog outputs. The system described in B1, wherein the first analog output, the second analog output, and the third analog output are each configured to output their respective dynamic ranges. B3 The system described in B2, wherein the first analog output, the second analog output, and the third analog output are configured to be driven separately. B4 The system as described in B2, wherein the third analog output has a different dynamic range from the first and second analog outputs. The system described in B2 has a dynamic range of the third analog output that is smaller than the dynamic range of the first and second analog outputs. B6 The system described in B2, where the upper limit of the dynamic range of the third analog output is lower than the dynamic range of the first and second analog outputs. The B7 headset has a first support structure, and the bone conduction body has a second support structure, as described in any of B1 to B6. B8 The system described in B7, wherein the second support structure is configured to hold the bone conduction body on the user's head. B9 The system according to B7, wherein the second support structure is configured to be adjustable to apply a variable fit and / or a certain amount of contact pressure between the bone conduction body and the user's head. B10 The bone conduction system, including a pressure monitor, as described in B7. The B11 pressure monitor is configured to indicate that a threshold contact pressure for hearing / wearing tests has been applied between the bone conductor and the user's head, as described in B10. The B12 system is one of the systems described in B1 to B11, configured to automatically switch between air conduction and bone conduction tests based on user responses. The B13 system is configured to determine, based on user responses, that masking is necessary to continue testing, as described in B12. B14 A method for hearing tests and fitting tests, the method is: The interface device is wirelessly connected to the first audiometer stack of the headset, thereby transmitting instructions to the first audiometer stack and receiving data from the first audiometer stack. The first audiometer stack of the headset is associated with the first ear cup of the headset's ear cup pair. The second audiometer stack of the headset is associated with the second ear cup of the headset's ear cup pair. The second audiometer stack is electronically connected to the first audiometer stack. Each of the ear cup pairs, A cushion configured to seal the inside of the ear cup from the outside of the ear cup when worn by the user, Each audiometer stack is surrounded by an earcup attenuation structure connected to a cushion, the earcup attenuation structure being configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth, and Including receiving, The first audiometer stack of the headset transmits an instruction message, the instruction message indicating an instruction to start the user's hearing test or fitting test, and the first audiometer stack transmits the message, including a first analog output, a second analog output, and a third analog output. In accordance with the firmware of the first audiometer stack, the first speaker, which is associated with the first audiometer stack and the first earcup, is driven via the first analog output. In accordance with the firmware of the first audiometer stack, the second speaker, which is associated with the second audiometer stack and the second earcup, is driven via the second analog output. The bone conduction device of a headset is driven via a third analog output, according to the firmware of the first audiometer stack, wherein the bone conduction device is mounted on the user's head and configured to be electronically connected to the first audiometer stack. Includes, The third analog output is generated in a different manner than the first and second analog outputs. B15 The method according to B14, wherein the first analog output, the second analog output, and the third analog output are each configured to output their respective dynamic ranges. B16 The method according to B15, wherein the first analog output, the second analog output, and the third analog output are configured to be driven separately. B17 The method according to B15, wherein the third analog output has a different dynamic range from the first and second analog outputs. B18 The dynamic range of the third analog output is smaller than the dynamic range of the first and second analog outputs, as described in B15. B19 The upper limit of the dynamic range of the third analog output is lower than the dynamic range of the first and second analog outputs, as described in B15. The method described in B14-B19, further including automatically switching between air conduction and bone conduction tests based on user feedback. C1 A system for hearing tests or fitting tests, the system is At least one headset, the at least one headset includes a first headset, the first headset is Support structure and, A pair of earcups connected by a support structure, wherein each earcup in the pair is A cushion configured to seal the inside of the ear cup from the outside of the ear cup when worn by the user, A hearing meter stack located inside the earcup, An ear cup attenuation structure enclosing a hearing meter stack and connected to a cushion, wherein the ear cup attenuation structure is configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth, and Includes, a pair of ear cups, including at least one headset, The at least one interface device includes a first interface device configured to wirelessly connect to at least a first audiometer stack of a first headset, and An administrator device configured to wirelessly connect to each of at least one interface devices, thereby transmitting instructions to each of at least one headsets via at least one interface device, and receiving data from each of at least one headsets, Equipped with, The administrator device is configured to send an instruction message to the first headset via the first interface device in response to receiving administrator user input on the administrator device, for performing a hearing test or fitting test. The instruction messages do not include data indicating the frequency, amplitude, or timing of the stimulus. The C2 administrator device is configured to receive data indicating the status of a hearing test or fitting test via the first interface device, as described in C1. C3 Data indicating the status of the hearing test or fitting test is generated and transmitted from the first headset to the system described in C2. The system as described in C1, wherein the C4 administrator device is configured to receive data indicating the user's response time(s) of the first headset during a hearing test or fitting test via the first interface device. C5 The system described in C4 generates and transmits data indicating the user's response time(s) to the first headset during a hearing test or fitting test, as described in C4. C6 The system as described in C4, wherein the first headset determines the response time(s) by a clock that determines the difference between when the first stimulus is output by the first or second speaker of the first headset and when the user interacts with the first interface device. C7 A system as described in any of C1 to C6, wherein at least one headset comprises multiple headsets for use by multiple users, and an administrator device is configured to manage multiple hearing tests or fitting tests for multiple users. The C8 administrator device is configured to manage multiple hearing tests or fitting tests in an asynchronous or synchronous manner, as described in the system in C7. C9 The system described in any of C1 to C8, wherein the first interface device, the first headset, and the administrator device form a wireless connection using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communication. The C10 administrator device is configured to remotely connect to the first interface device via a secure server connection, as described in C9 of the system. The C11 administrator device is configured to connect to the first interface device via a direct Wi-Fi connection, as described in C9 of the system. C12 The wireless connection between the first interface device, the first headset, and the administrator device is a Bluetooth Low Energy connection, as described in C9. The system described in C12, wherein the C13 administrator device is configured to change the wireless connection to standard Bluetooth communication and transmit audio data to the first headset via standard Bluetooth communication in response to receiving administrator user input for audio transmission to the first headset on the administrator device. C14 The first headset is a system described in any of C1 to C13, including firmware, a voltage module, and at least two analog outputs. The C15 firmware is configured to determine the frequency, amplitude, and timing of the stimulus (collectively, the test parameters) based on the type of hearing test or wearable test being performed, as described in C14. The C16 firmware adjusts test parameters based on user responses and / or response times, as described in C14. The C17 voltage module is configured to output dynamic range for each of the at least two analog outputs, as described in C14. The system described in C17, wherein the output of the C18 dynamic range is configured to be a pure tone or a frequency range. C19 Pure tones are a narrow-band frequency range, as described in C18. C20 A method for hearing tests or fitting tests, the method is: Connecting at least one interface device wirelessly to at least one headset, wherein at least one interface device includes a first interface device configured to wirelessly connect to at least a first audiometer stack of a first headset, By wirelessly connecting an administrator device to each of at least one interface devices, instructions can be sent to each of at least one headsets via at least one interface device, and data can be received from each of at least one headsets. In response to receiving administrator user input on the administrator device, the first interface device sends an instruction message to the first headset for performing a hearing test or fitting test, Includes, Instructional messages are methods that do not include data indicating the frequency, amplitude, or timing of the stimulus.

[0203] Other aspects of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, given the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This specification and examples are for illustrative purposes only, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are intended to be shown by the following claims.

Claims

1. A system for hearing tests and fitting tests, wherein the system is A headset, wherein the headset is Support structure and, A pair of earcups connected by the support structure, wherein each of the earcups is A cushion configured to seal the inside of the ear cup from the outside of the ear cup when worn by the user, The earcup includes an audiometer stack disposed inside the earcup, An ear cup attenuation structure enclosing the audiometer stack and connected to the cushion, wherein the ear cup attenuation structure is configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth, Includes, a pair of ear cups, Including a headset, An interface device configured to wirelessly connect to at least a first audiometer stack of the earcup pair, Equipped with, The aforementioned system, Outputting a first interface, wherein the first interface includes a first interface element configured to be selectable by a first input for initiating a hearing test. Determining that the first input has selected the first interface element, In response to determining that the first input has selected the first interface element, at least the first audiometer stack is instructed to perform the first stimulus sequence, Receiving a first set of one or more user responses to at least a first subset of the first stimulus sequence, Determining the results of the hearing test based on a first set of one or more user responses, wherein the hearing test results include at least a measurement of the user's auditory ability. Outputting a second interface configured to indicate a transition to a hearing protection fitting test, wherein the second interface includes at least a second interface element configured to be selectable by a second input for initiating the hearing protection fitting test. Determining that the second input has selected the second interface element, In response to determining that the second input has selected the second interface element, at least the first audiometer stack is instructed to perform the second stimulation sequence, Receiving a second set of one or more user responses to at least a second subset of the second stimulus sequence, Determining the fitting test result of the hearing protection fitting test based on a second set of one or more user responses, wherein the fitting test result includes an indication of the hearing attenuation achieved by the hearing protection worn by the user during the hearing protection fitting test. A system configured to perform the following actions.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the interface device is a patient device or an administrator device.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first interface is configured to instruct the user on how to use the system.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein each audiometer stack includes at least a speaker and a mounting structure for mounting the speaker within the earcup.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the first audiometer stack is connected to the second audiometer stack of the earcup pair.

6. A system for bone conduction hearing tests or wear tests, wherein the system is A headset, wherein the headset is Support structure and, A pair of earcups connected by the support structure, wherein each of the earcups is A cushion configured to seal the inside of the ear cup from the outside of the ear cup when worn by the user, The earcup includes an audiometer stack disposed inside the earcup, An ear cup attenuation structure enclosing the audiometer stack and connected to the cushion, wherein the ear cup attenuation structure is configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth, Includes, a pair of ear cups, A bone conduction body is attached to the user's head and configured to be electronically connected to a first audiometer stack of the earcup pair, wherein a second audiometer stack of the earcup pair is electronically connected to the first audiometer stack. Including a headset, An interface device configured to wirelessly connect to the first audiometer stack, transmit instructions to the first audiometer stack, and receive data from the first audiometer stack, Equipped with, The first audiometer stack includes a first analog output, a second analog output, and a third analog output. The first analog output drives a first speaker associated with the first audiometer stack. The second analog output drives a second speaker associated with the second audiometer stack. The third analog output drives the bone conduction body, The third analog output is a system distinct from the first analog output and the second analog output.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein the first analog output, the second analog output, and the third analog output are each configured to output their respective dynamic ranges.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the first analog output, the second analog output, and the third analog output are configured to be driven separately.

9. The system according to claim 7, wherein the third analog output has a different dynamic range from the first analog output and the second analog output.

10. The system according to claim 7, wherein the dynamic range of the third analog output is smaller than the dynamic range of the first analog output and the second analog output.

11. A system for hearing tests or fitting tests, wherein the system is At least one headset, wherein the at least one headset includes a first headset, and the first headset is Support structure and, A pair of earcups connected by the support structure, wherein each of the earcups is A cushion configured to seal the inside of the ear cup from the outside of the ear cup when worn by the user, The earcup includes an audiometer stack disposed inside the earcup, An ear cup attenuation structure enclosing the audiometer stack and connected to the cushion, wherein the ear cup attenuation structure is configured to provide attenuation comparable to that of an acoustic booth, Includes, a pair of ear cups, including at least one headset, At least one interface device, the at least one interface device including a first interface device configured to wirelessly connect to at least a first audiometer stack of the first headset, An administrator device configured to wirelessly connect to each of the at least one interface devices, thereby transmitting instructions to each of the at least one headsets via the at least one interface device, and receiving data from each of the at least one headsets, Equipped with, The administrator device is configured to send an instruction message to the first headset via the first interface device in response to receiving administrator user input on the administrator device, for performing a hearing test or fitting test. The instruction message does not include data indicating the frequency, amplitude, or timing of the stimulus.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the administrator device is configured to receive data indicating the status of the hearing test or fitting test via the first interface device.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the data indicating the status of the hearing test or fitting test is generated and transmitted from the first headset.

14. The system according to claim 11, wherein the administrator device is configured to receive data indicating the user response time(s) of the first headset during the hearing test or fitting test via the first interface device.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein the data indicating the user's response time(s) of the first headset during the hearing test or fitting test is generated and transmitted from the first headset.

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