Spectral Time Modulation Detection Test Unit

Abstract

To provide a spectro-temporal modulation (STM) detection test unit, a STM detection test system, a hearing aid, and a method.SOLUTION: A spectro-temporal modulation (STM) detection test unit comprises: a stimulus generation unit SGU comprising at least one output unit configured to present a first probe stimulus 3 to one ear of a user 2 and to present a second probe stimulus 4 to the other ear of the user; and an analysis unit AU configured to determine, in response to presenting the probe stimuli, a modulation / detection threshold of the user. The stimulus generation unit is configured to generate each of the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus on the basis of a carrier signal with a spectro-temporal modulation added, and the spectro-temporal modulation of the first probe stimulus differs from the spectro-temporal modulation of the second probe stimulus. The present application further relates to a system and a method.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a spectral time modulation (STM) detection test unit.

[0002] This application further relates to an STM detection test system comprising an STM detection test unit and an auxiliary device.

[0003] This application further relates to a hearing aid.

[0004] This application further relates to a method.

Background Art

[0005] STM detection tests have recently gathered much interest as a simple, language-independent measure of hearing above threshold, and more specifically as an alternative to complex aided noise-in-speech tests.

[0006] In an STM detection test, a spectrally time-modulated probe tone is compared to an unmodulated reference tone having a similar spectrum otherwise. The reference tone, i.e., the carrier signal, is typically a wideband noise signal (assuming alternative carriers are considered).

[0007] By an adaptation rule, the degree of modulation (depth of modulation) of the probe tone is varied until the patient's modulation detection threshold is reached. The degree of modulation at the threshold is the result of the test.

[0008] High correlations between speech-to-speech (STM) thresholds and speech reception thresholds (SRTs) have been observed in several studies, namely Non-Patent Documents 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 listed below, particularly with respect to STM stimulus parameters similar to those observed in actual speech, such as time modulation around 4 Hz and spectral modulation around 2 cycles / octave. In basic terms, it can be hypothesized that the degree of modulation required by listeners to detect modulation in an STM stimulus is directly related to the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) required (minimum) by listeners to understand speech in background noise.

[0009] A clinically optimized version of the STM test is called the Audible Contrast Threshold (ACT) test. In the current embodiment of the ACT test, the same signal is played to both ears of the listener, with the exception of ear-specific amplification based on each audiogram.

[0010] In line with the analogy between the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in speech tests and the degree of modulation in STM / ACT tests, this corresponds to a speech test where both ears receive identical speech and noise signals, which in reality rarely occurs. Indeed, it has been established that listeners strongly benefit from so-called "better ear" listening in realistic speech reception tasks involving spatially distributed sound sources. Depending on the spatial position of the target speaker and the interfering sound source, the SNR may be higher in one ear than the other due to the head shadow effect.

[0011] In its simplest form, this can occur in the long term, where one ear consistently exhibits a favorable SNR. In more complex situations, where there are some non-stationary interferences, the better-than-best-ear effect may well involve the integration of high SNR "glimpses" from both ears, which can be localized in both time and frequency, also known as binaural sensing (see Non-Patent Documents 6, 7, 8 and 9 below).

[0012] Most previous studies on STM detection have measured each participant's two ears separately (in contrast to the ACT test, which measures them together), but no attempts have been reported to assess the listener's ability to (i) use the “better ear” where appropriate, or (ii) integrate complementary spectral, temporal, or spectral-temporal information through the two ears. These abilities are crucial for understanding real speech. Knowing the extent to which these abilities are impaired in hearing aid users is essential when determining the optimal type and adjustment of hearing aid processing provided to hearing aid users, particularly when deciding on the use of integration processing between two hearing aids and spatial sensitivity of acoustic processing for binaural hearing aid users.

[0013] Therefore, it is necessary to determine the user's ability to use "better hearing" when appropriate, and / or the user's ability to integrate complementary spectral, temporal, or spectral-temporal information through both ears. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0014] STM Detection Test Unit In one aspect of this application, an STM detection test unit is provided.

[0015] The STM detection test unit may include a stimulus generation unit.

[0016] The stimulus generation unit may include at least one output unit.

[0017] At least one output unit may be a two-channel output unit.

[0018] The output unit may be configured to deliver a first probe stimulus to one of the user's ears.

[0019] The output unit may be configured to deliver a second probe stimulus to the user's other ear.

[0020] The second probe stimulus may be different from or the same as the first probe stimulus.

[0021] The first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus may be presented simultaneously.

[0022] The STM detection test unit may include an analysis unit.

[0023] The analysis unit may be configured to determine the modulation / detection threshold of the user in response to presenting a probe stimulus (formed by first and second probe stimuli that may be played simultaneously to both ears).

[0024] In other words, the analysis unit may be configured to determine the modulation / detection threshold of the user in the provided probe stimulus.

[0025] Determining may include the analysis unit detecting the user's response as to whether the user perceives the presented probe stimulus.

[0026] For example, the STM detection test unit may include a response detection unit, and the response detection unit may detect the response from the user and transmit the aforementioned response to the aforementioned analysis unit.

[0027] The aforementioned analysis unit may detect the psychophysical response or electrophysiological response of the user.

[0028] Determining may include the analysis unit calculating the modulation / detection threshold of the user based on detection of whether the user perceives the presented probe stimulus and / or the received response.

[0029] The stimulus generation unit may be configured to generate a first probe stimulus based on a carrier signal with spectral time modulation.

[0030] The stimulus generation unit may be configured to generate a second probe stimulus based on a carrier signal with spectral time modulation.

[0031] The stimulus generation unit may be configured to generate a first probe stimulus and / or a second probe stimulus based on a carrier signal. The first probe stimulus and / or the second probe stimulus may then be provided to the user without spectral time modulation.

[0032] The stimulus generation unit may be configured to generate a first probe stimulus and a second probe stimulus, respectively, based on the carrier signal, by applying spectral time modulation.

[0033] In other words, the stimulus generation unit may be configured to generate a first probe stimulus and / or a second probe stimulus based on a carrier signal to which a spectral-time modulation pattern is given.

[0034] The carrier signal of the first probe stimulus may be different from or similar to the carrier signal of the second probe stimulus.

[0035] The spectral-time modulation of the first probe stimulus may differ from that of the second probe stimulus.

[0036] This provides a device for determining a user's ability to use "better hearing" when appropriate, or their ability to integrate complementary spectral information, temporal information, or spectral-temporal information through both ears.

[0037] The STM detection test unit may be configured to operate in multiple different modes.

[0038] Each mode may be characterized by the fact that the spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus differs from the spectral time modulation of the second probe stimulus.

[0039] The ability to operate in multiple different modes means that the STM detection test unit can be set to the most suitable specific test mode. For example, when testing a user's ability to use "better hearing," the (most suitable) test mode configured to determine the user's better hearing ability can be selected. Similar considerations apply to other modes.

[0040] To estimate better hearing ability, the most suitable mode may be used in combination with a reference mode, such as the standard ACT mode.

[0041] The fact that the spectral-time modulation of the first probe stimulus differs from that of the second probe stimulus may include the fact that the degree of spectral-time modulation of the first probe stimulus differs from the degree of spectral-time modulation of the second probe stimulus.

[0042] This level can be used to represent the magnitude (modulation depth) of spectral time modulation.

[0043] The fact that the spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus is different from that of the second probe stimulus may include the fact that the occurrence of spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus is different from the occurrence of spectral time modulation of the second probe stimulus.

[0044] Occurrence may mean spectral and / or temporal occurrence of spectral-time modulation, thereby providing spectral-time modulation only in specific (e.g., alternating) time intervals and / or specific (e.g., alternating) frequency bands.

[0045] The analysis unit may be configured to compare the user's modulation / detection threshold (Thresh_mode) in response to a stimulus with a reference mode or condition's modulation / detection threshold (i.e., reference modulation / detection threshold, Thresh_ref).

[0046] For example, a reference modulation / detection threshold may be measured (in the reference mode) before using the STM detection test unit for several other different modes. This ensures that one or more reference modulation / detection thresholds are available during the use of the STM detection test unit. The reference modulation / detection threshold may be available for each of the several different modes of the STM detection test unit.

[0047] For example, an STM detection test unit may include a memory unit, which may be configured to store one or more reference modulation / detection thresholds.

[0048] A reference mode for determining one or more reference modulation / detection thresholds may include one of the following: • To determine the user's corresponding modulation / detection threshold by presenting a combination of probe stimuli in the selected mode of the STM detection test unit to both of the user's ears (e.g., geotic STM detection responding to similar stimuli, such as those that may be used in a standard ACT test). • To determine the corresponding modulation / detection thresholds of a normal hearing subject by presenting a combination of probe stimuli in selected modes of the STM detection test unit to both ears of the subject. • Presenting similar, sparse spectral time-modulated probe stimuli (defined by the mode of the STM detection test unit) to both of the user's ears (in contrast to different complementary patterns presented to the two ears). This allows for the distinction between the monoaural effect of sparse modulation patterns and the binaural effect of integrating complementaryly sparse modulation patterns through both ears.

[0049] The type of reference modulation / detection threshold used when comparing with the user's modulation / detection threshold may depend on whether it is intended to test the user's ability to use "better hearing" or the user's ability to integrate information.

[0050] Therefore, the user's ability to binaurally adjust the perception of an audio signal may be defined as the difference between a reference modulation / detection threshold obtained using a reference mode and a modulation / detection threshold obtained using multiple different modes of the STM detection test unit.

[0051] Comparing modulation / detection thresholds may include the analysis unit determining the difference (Δthresh) between the user's modulation / detection threshold in response to a stimulus and a reference modulation / detection threshold.

[0052] The difference value can be as follows: Δthresh = Thresh_mode - Thresh_ref

[0053] The analysis unit may be configured to compare the user's difference value (Δthresh,ava) with the mean difference value (Δthresh) measured for a group of young, normal-hearing individuals (normative data) in a similar test mode (i.e., a similar mode for the STM detection test unit). This may determine whether the user's ability to use better hearing and / or integrate through both ears is reduced / impaired.

[0054] for example, Δthresh<Δthresh,ava: The user can use better hearing and / or integrate through both ears. Δthresh>Δthresh,ava: Reduced / damaged ability to use better hearing and / or integration.

[0055] In other words, comparing the determined difference value to the average difference value can define, where appropriate, the user's ability to use a "better ear," and / or the user's ability to integrate complementary spectral information, temporal information, or spectral-temporal information through both ears.

[0056] In other words, comparing the determined difference value to the average difference value can define the user's ability to binaurally adjust the perception of audio signals.

[0057] For example, if the difference value falls below the average difference value, the user may be able to adjust it binaurally.

[0058] For example, if the difference value exceeds the average difference value, the user may not be able to adjust both ears simultaneously.

[0059] For example, the average difference value may be stored in the memory of the STM detection test unit.

[0060] Generating a first probe stimulus and a second probe stimulus may include configuring a stimulus generation unit to modulate the respective carrier signals of the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus with a modulator signal having an adjustable modulation depth parameter.

[0061] The modulation depth parameter may determine the degree of modulation.

[0062] The modulation depth parameter may be equal to any value within the interval [0,1].

[0063] For example, the stimulus may be configured such that the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus consist of a carrier signal C(t,f). The carrier signal C(t,f) is multiplied by the modulator signal M(t,f), where t and f represent time and frequency, respectively. The tracking variable in the test may be the modulation depth parameter m, which controls the degree of modulation and assumes a value within the interval [0,1]. Thus, a full stimulus S(t,f) can be defined as follows:

[0064] S(t,f) = C(t,f)·(1+m·M(t,f))

[0065] Generating a first probe stimulus and a second probe stimulus may include configuring the stimulus generation unit to reduce the modulation depth parameter of either the first probe stimulus or the second probe stimulus by a modulation reduction parameter.

[0066] The modulation reduction parameter may be equal to any value within the interval from 0 to m, where m is the modulation depth parameter.

[0067] For example, in a mode relating to better ear selection, a stimulus with a smaller resulting modulation depth, described by the parameter m-δ, may be presented to one of the user's two ears.

[0068] S1(t,f) = C1(t,f)·(1+m·M(t,f)) S2(t,f) = C2(t,f)·(1+(m-δ)·M(t,f))

[0069] S1 and S2 represent stimuli played towards the left and right ears (randomly assigned). δ represents a modulation reduction parameter between 0 and m that reduces the modulation depth parameter in S2. C1 and C2 are carriers played towards the left and right ears. The carriers may have the same phase or different phases while maintaining the same spectrum and energy.

[0070] Generating a first probe stimulus and a second probe stimulus may include configuring the stimulus generation unit to provide a mask for the respective modulator signals of the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus.

[0071] The mask can be equal to any value within the interval [0,1].

[0072] The mask in the modulator signal of the first probe stimulus may provide an STM pattern complementary to the mask in the modulator signal of the second probe stimulus.

[0073] For example, in modes relating to temporal, spectral, and / or spectral-temporal integration through the user's binaural ears, the modulator signal M may be multiplied by a mask.

[0074] S1(t,f) = C1(t,f)·(1+m·Γ(t,f)·M(t,f)) S2(t,f) = C2(t,f)·(1+m·(1-Γ(t,f))·M(t,f))

[0075] S1 and S2 represent stimuli played toward the left and right ears (randomly assigned). The mask Γ(t,f) may contain values ​​in the interval [0,1], and as a result, 1-Γ(t,f) gives a complementary pattern to Γ(t,f). The mask configuration, Γ(t,f), determines whether S1 and S2 alternate temporally, spectrally, or spectrally. C1 and C2 are carriers played toward the left and right ears. The carriers may have the same phase or different phases while maintaining the same spectrum and energy.

[0076] The STM detection test unit may also be equipped with a headset.

[0077] The headset may include a first output transducer of an output unit for presenting a first probe stimulus to one of the user's ears.

[0078] The headset may include a second output transducer of an output unit for presenting a second probe stimulus to the user's other ear.

[0079] The output unit may be a 2-channel output unit.

[0080] The term "headset" can refer to an in-ear headset, over-ear headset, or earphone, and is configured to deliver audio to the user's ear.

[0081] The STM detection test unit may be equipped with one or more detectors.

[0082] One or more detectors may include one or more electrodes.

[0083] The STM detection test unit may be configured to determine the user's modulation / detection threshold based on the user's response to audible modulated stimuli (e.g., via a push button or touchpad).

[0084] The STM detection test unit may be configured to determine the user's modulation / detection threshold based on the detection of the user's psychophysical response by one or more detectors.

[0085] The STM detection test unit may be configured to determine the user's modulation / detection threshold based on the detection of the user's physiological response by one or more electrodes.

[0086] STM Detection Test System In one aspect of this application, an STM detection test system is provided.

[0087] The STM detection test system may include the STM detection test unit described above.

[0088] The STM detection test system may include auxiliary devices.

[0089] The STM detection test system may be adapted to provide a communication link between the STM detection test unit and an auxiliary device, enabling the exchange or transfer of information (e.g., test results, control and status signals, possibly audio signals) from one to the other.

[0090] Auxiliary devices may include remote controls, smartphones, or other portable electronic devices.

[0091] The auxiliary device may consist of, or include, a remote control for controlling the functionality and operation of the STM detection test unit.

[0092] hearing aid In one aspect of this application, a hearing aid is provided.

[0093] The hearing aid may be adapted to be positioned in or inside the hearing aid user's ear, or to be fully or partially implanted in the hearing aid user's head.

[0094] A hearing aid may include an input unit for receiving an input sound signal from the hearing aid user's environment and supplying at least one electrical input signal representing that same input sound signal.

[0095] The input unit may include an input transducer, such as a microphone, for converting an input sound into an electrical input signal. The input unit may also include a radio receiver for receiving a radio signal containing or representing sound and providing an electrical input signal representing the aforementioned sound. The radio receiver may be configured to receive, for example, electromagnetic signals in the radio frequency range (3 kHz to 300 GHz). The radio receiver may be configured to receive, for example, electromagnetic signals in the optical frequency range (e.g., infrared, 300 GHz to 430 THz, or visible light, e.g., 430 THz to 770 THz).

[0096] Hearing aids may be equipped with a processing unit.

[0097] The processing unit may include signal processing parameters for supplying a processed version of at least one electrical input signal.

[0098] The signal processing parameters may be configured based on at least the determined difference value.

[0099] In one aspect of this application, a hearing aid is provided which includes signal processing parameters configured by determined difference values.

[0100] A hearing aid may be configured, for example, to provide frequency-dependent gain and / or level-dependent compression and / or transition (with or without frequency compression) of one or more frequency ranges to one or more other frequency ranges in order to compensate for a user's hearing impairment.

[0101] A hearing aid may include an output unit for providing stimuli that the user perceives as acoustic signals based on processed electrical signals. The output unit may include a number of electrodes for a cochlear implant (for a CI-type hearing aid) or a vibrator for a bone conduction hearing aid. The output unit may include an output transducer. The output transducer may include a receiver (loudspeaker) for providing stimuli to the user as acoustic signals (e.g., in an acoustic (air conduction-based) hearing aid). The output transducer may include a vibrator for providing stimuli to the user as mechanical vibrations of the skull (e.g., in a bone-mounted or bone-locked hearing aid).

[0102] Hearing aids may be equipped with a directional microphone system, which is configured to spatially filter sound from the environment, thereby enhancing a target sound source among numerous sound sources in the local environment of the user wearing the hearing aid. The directional microphone system may be configured to detect (e.g., adaptively detect) from which direction a particular portion of the microphone signal is generated. This may be achieved in various different ways, such as those described in the prior art. In hearing aids, microphone array beamformers are often used to spatially attenuate background noise sources. Many variations of beamformers can be found in the literature. Minimum dispersion-free response (MVDR) beamformers are widely used in microphone array signal processing. Ideally, an MVDR beamformer should attenuate sound signals from other directions to the greatest extent possible while not altering the signal from the target direction (also called the look direction). Generalized sidelobe canceller (GSC) structures are equivalent representations of MVDR beamformers and offer computational and numerical advantages over direct implementations in their original form.

[0103] The hearing aid may include an antenna and transceiver circuit that enables wireless links to entertainment devices (e.g., TV sets), communication devices (e.g., telephones), wireless microphones, or other hearing aids. Therefore, the hearing aid may be configured to wirelessly receive direct electrical input signals from other devices. Similarly, the hearing aid may be configured to wirelessly transmit direct electrical output signals to other devices. Direct electrical input or output signals may represent or include audio signals and / or control signals and / or information signals.

[0104] In general, the wireless link established by the antenna and transceiver circuit of a hearing aid may be of any type. The wireless link may be a short-range communication-based link, for example, an inductive link based on inductive coupling between the transmitter's antenna coil and the receiver's components. The wireless link may be based on long-range electromagnetic radiation. Preferably, the frequency used to establish the communication link between the hearing aid and other devices is less than 70 GHz and is located in the range of 50 MHz to 70 GHz, for example, the range above 300 MHz, for example, the ISM range above 300 MHz, for example, the 900 MHz range, or the 2.4 GHz range, or the 5.8 GHz range, or the 60 GHz range (ISM = Industrial, Scientific, and Medical, and such standardized ranges are defined, for example, by the International Telecommunication Union ITU). The wireless link may be based on standardized or proprietary technology. The wireless link may be based on Bluetooth® technology (such as Bluetooth® Low-Energy technology) or Ultra WideBand (UWB) technology.

[0105] The hearing aid may be configured to operate in different modes, for example, a normal mode and one or more specific modes, for example, specific modes that can be selected by the user or automatically selected. The operating modes may be optimized for specific acoustic conditions or environments. The operating modes may include a low-power mode to reduce the functionality of the hearing aid (for example, to save power), for example, to disable wireless communication and / or to disable specific functions of the hearing aid.

[0106] use In one further embodiment, the use of the above-described STM detection test unit and / or hearing system is provided as described in the "Detailed Description of Embodiments" and claims. The use may be provided in a system including one or more hearing aids (e.g., hearing devices), headsets, earphones, active ear protection systems, etc.

[0107] method In one embodiment, the present application further provides a method.

[0108] This method may include presenting a first probe stimulus to one of the user's ears.

[0109] This method may include presenting a second probe stimulus to the user's other ear.

[0110] The first probe stimulus and / or the second probe stimulus may be provided by a stimulus generation unit including at least one output unit.

[0111] This method may include determining the user's modulation / detection threshold by an analysis unit.

[0112] The modulation / detection threshold may be determined in response to the presentation of a probe stimulus.

[0113] Presenting probe stimuli may mean presenting a first probe stimulus to one ear of the user and a second probe stimulus to the other ear of the user.

[0114] This method may include generating a first probe stimulus and a second probe stimulus, respectively, based on a carrier signal with spectral time modulation, using a stimulus generation unit.

[0115] The spectral-time modulation of the first probe stimulus may differ from that of the second probe stimulus.

[0116] This method may further include comparing the user's modulation / detection threshold in response to a stimulus with a reference modulation / detection threshold.

[0117] This method may further include comparing the user's modulation / detection threshold in response to a stimulus in each of the multiple modes with a reference modulation / detection threshold in the reference mode.

[0118] This method may include determining the difference between the user's modulation / detection threshold and a reference modulation / detection threshold.

[0119] The reference modulation / detection threshold may be determined as shown in the section of the "STM Detection Test Unit" described above.

[0120] This method may further include adjusting / configuring the signal processing parameters of the user's hearing aid based on a determined difference between the user's modulation / detection threshold and a reference modulation / detection threshold.

[0121] This method provides a measure of hearing aid users' ability to select better ears, as well as their ability to integrate information that is temporally, spectrally, and spectrally sparse across both ears. The availability and degree of these abilities represent important information for setting appropriate signal processing parameters for hearing aids.

[0122] For example, one type of hearing aid signal processing is bidirectional beamforming, in which both hearing aids are used together to obtain improved spatial beamforming in order to enhance speech comprehension.

[0123] When a user has poor binaural integration ability, bidirectional beamforming is actively parameterized, resulting in identical signals reproduced in both ears, and all acoustic aspects necessary for binaural processing are removed. Depending on the user, this is often undesirable and therefore requires balancing by adding direct sound, which undermines the effectiveness of beamforming for improving speech comprehension.

[0124] Therefore, if a user is found to have very limited binaural integration ability, then active bidirectional beamforming is indeed the right choice, as it aids speech comprehension and, given the user's limited binaural integration ability, may be acquired at zero cost.

[0125] Some or all of the structural features of the STM detection test unit and / or system described in the "Detailed Description of Embodiments" or claims are intended to be combined with embodiments of this method, and vice versa, when appropriately replaced by the corresponding processes. Embodiments of this method have the same advantages as the corresponding STM detection test unit and / or system.

[0126] Computer-readable media or data carrier In one embodiment, a tangible computer-readable medium (data carrier) for storing a computer program is further provided in this application. The computer program comprises program code means (instructions) for the data processing system (computer) to perform at least a portion (e.g., most or all) of the above-described methods (steps) as described in the "Detailed Description of Embodiments" and the claims when the computer program is executed in the data processing system.

[0127] Computer program A computer program (product) that, once executed by a computer, includes instructions causing the computer to perform the steps of the method described in the "Detailed Description of Embodiments" and the claims, is further provided by this application.

[0128] Data Processing System In one embodiment, the present application further provides a data processing system. The data processing system comprises a processor and program code means for causing the processor to perform at least a portion (such as most or all) of the steps of the method described in the "Detailed Description of Embodiments" and the claims.

[0129] APP In other embodiments, the Disclosure further provides a non-transient application referred to as an APP. The APP includes executable instructions configured to run on an auxiliary device to implement a user interface for the STM detection test unit or auditory system described in the "Detailed Description of Embodiments" and the claims. The APP may be configured to run on a cellular phone, such as a smartphone, or other portable device that enables communication with the aforementioned auditory system.

[0130] The aspects of this disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description set forth in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are schematic and simplified for clarity, showing only the details necessary to understand the claims, and omitting other details. Throughout, the same reference numerals are used for identical or corresponding parts. Each individual feature of each aspect may be combined with any or all features of the other aspects. These and other aspects, features and / or technical effects are made clear and apparent by reference to the drawings described below. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0131] [Figure 1] This application illustrates an exemplary STM detection test unit. [Figure 2] This application provides an exemplary stimulus configuration for testing better ear selection. [Figure 3] This application provides an exemplary stimulus configuration for testing temporal integration through both ears. [Figure 4] This application provides an exemplary stimulus configuration for testing spectral integration through both ears. [Figure 5] This application provides an exemplary stimulus configuration for testing spectral-temporal integration through both ears. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0132] The diagrams are simplified and illustrative for clarity, showing only the details essential to understanding the disclosure, and omitting other details. Throughout, the same or corresponding reference numerals are used for identical or corresponding parts.

[0133] Further scope of application of this disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. However, in illustrating preferred embodiments of this disclosure, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples are given for illustrative purposes only. Other embodiments may become apparent to those skilled in the art from the detailed description below.

[0134] The detailed descriptions below, in relation to the attached drawings, are intended to describe various configurations. The detailed descriptions include specific details necessary for a complete understanding of the various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be implemented without these specific details. Some aspects of the apparatus and methods are described by various blocks, functional units, modules, components, circuits, steps, processes, algorithms, etc. (collectively referred to as “Elements”). Depending on the specific application, configuration constraints, or other reasons, these Elements may be implemented using electronic hardware, computer programs, or any combination thereof.

[0135] Figure 1 shows an exemplary STM detection test unit according to this application.

[0136] Figure 1 shows that the STM detection test unit ("STM") may comprise a stimulus generation unit (SGU) and an analysis unit (AU).

[0137] The stimulus generation unit SGU may include at least one output unit. Figure 1 shows that the STM detection test unit ("STM") may further include a headset 1. The headset 1 may include a first output transducer and a second output transducer of the output unit.

[0138] The stimulus generation unit SGU may be configured to present a first probe stimulus to one ear of user 2 via a first output transducer and a second probe stimulus to the other ear of user 2 via a second output transducer.

[0139] The stimulus generation unit (SGU) may be configured to generate a first probe stimulus and a second probe stimulus, respectively, based on whether the carrier signal is provided with spectral-time modulation or without modulation. Figure 1 shows that the first probe stimulus 3 and the second probe stimulus 4 may include similar spectral-time modulation. However, the first probe stimulus 3 (e.g., spectral-time modulation) may also differ from the second probe stimulus 4 (e.g., spectral-time modulation).

[0140] The analysis unit AU may be configured to determine the modulation / detection threshold of user 2 in response to the presentation of a probe stimulus. The modulation / detection threshold may be determined based on the psychophysical or electrophysiological response (not shown in Figure 1) detected by user 2.

[0141] It is envisioned that either or both of the stimulus generation unit SGU and / or the analysis unit AU may be incorporated into the headset. Furthermore, the STM detection test unit ("STM") may be equipped with auxiliary devices, such as a mobile device or a stationary device, which may be connected to the remaining functional parts of the STM detection test unit ("STM") by wire or wireless, and it is envisioned that the auxiliary devices may control the stimulus generation unit SGU and / or the analysis unit AU.

[0142] Figure 2 shows an exemplary stimulus configuration for testing better ear selection in relation to this application.

[0143] In Figure 2, a first probe stimulus 3 is presented to one ear of the user (not shown), and a second probe stimulus 4 is presented to the other ear of the user (not shown). Both stimuli 3 and 4 include spectral-time modulation. However, the STM detection test unit ("STM") may be configured to operate in several different modes. In the mode shown in Figure 2, the spectral-time modulation of the first probe stimulus 3 is different from that of the second probe stimulus 4.

[0144] The mode in Figure 2 relates to the selection of a better ear. In Figure 2, it is evaluated whether the user can select the information provided by a better ear over the long term in order to optimize performance. This may be achieved by changing the degree of modulation of stimuli between the two ears.

[0145] For example, in this mode, the modulation of the second probe stimulus 4 may be reduced (e.g., by a fixed amount) compared to the modulation of the first probe stimulus 3, making the ear receiving the first probe stimulus 3 a better ear in that test. In the next trial, the modulation of the first probe stimulus 3 may be reduced compared to the modulation of the second probe stimulus 4. The difference in performance between the above mode and a reference mode (e.g., a standard ACT test providing a reference modulation / detection threshold, or other) indicates the level of difficulty induced by having only one reliable ear signal (instead of two signals) in any given trial. In this case, the user manages the selection of the optimal, better ear, and the difference value is low or 0. In this case, the user manages only the selection of a partially optimal, better ear, and the difference value is higher (>0).

[0146] Furthermore, the difference values ​​may be compared to the mean difference values ​​measured for a group of young, healthy hearing individuals / subjects (normative data) using a similar test mode (i.e., a similar mode of the STM detection test unit). This allows for the determination of whether the ability of users to use better hearing is reduced / damaged.

[0147] Figure 3 shows an exemplary stimulus configuration for testing temporal integration through both ears in relation to this application.

[0148] In Figure 3, the first probe stimulus 3 is presented to one of the user's ears (not shown), and the second probe stimulus 4 is presented to the user's other ear (not shown). Both stimuli 3 and 4 include spectral-time modulation. However, in the mode of Figure 3, the spectral-time modulation of the first probe stimulus 3 is temporally different from that of the second probe stimulus 4.

[0149] In Figure 3, the first probe stimulus 3 provides spectral time modulation in the first time interval t1, but in the time interval t n It has been shown that the second time interval t2 and other intervals alternately do not provide modulation. On the other hand, the second probe stimulus 4 does not provide modulation in the first time interval t1, but in the time interval t n The spectral time modulation is provided alternately in the second time interval t2, etc.

[0150] The mode in Figure 3 relates to the temporal integration through the user's binaural system. The mode in Figure 3 measures the user's ability to integrate temporally sparse information through both ears to optimize performance. This can be achieved by dividing the given spectral-temporal modulation pattern in the carrier signal into short-time windows and modulating noise only in the left or right ear signal alternately within any given time window. As a result, the complete combination of two temporally sparse but complementary spectral-temporal modulation patterns through both ears reveals the full spectral-temporal modulation pattern. The difference in performance between the described test and a reference mode (e.g., a standard ACT test providing a reference modulation / detection threshold, or others) reveals the increased difficulty induced by having only one reliable ear signal in any given time window. For optimal integration by the user, the performance is the same and the difference value is low or zero. For partial optimal integration by the user, the performance is lower and the difference value is higher (>0).

[0151] Furthermore, the difference value may be compared to the mean difference value measured for a group of young, healthy hearing individuals / subjects (normative data) in a similar test mode (i.e., a similar mode of the STM detection test unit). This allows for the determination of whether the user's ability to integrate through both ears is reduced / impaired.

[0152] Other modulation patterns should also be considered.

[0153] Figure 4 shows an exemplary stimulus configuration for testing spectral integration through both ears in accordance with this application.

[0154] In Figure 4, the first probe stimulus 3 is presented to one ear of the user (not shown), and the second probe stimulus 4 is presented to the other ear of the user (not shown). Both stimuli 3 and 4 include spectral-time modulation. However, in the mode of Figure 4, the spectral-time modulation of the first probe stimulus 3 is spectrally different from the spectral-time modulation of the second probe stimulus 4.

[0155] In Figure 4, the first probe stimulus 3 provides spectral time modulation in the first frequency band f1, but the frequency band f n It has been shown that the second frequency band f2 does not provide modulation alternately until [the specified frequency band]. On the other hand, the second probe stimulus 4 does not provide modulation in the first frequency band f1, but in the frequency band f n It alternately provides spectral time modulation in the second frequency band f2, etc.

[0156] The mode in Figure 4 relates to spectral integration through both ears. The mode in Figure 4 measures the user's ability to integrate spectrally sparse information through both ears to optimize performance. This is achieved by dividing the spectral-time modulation pattern given to the carrier signal in the auditory-inspired frequency band and modulating the carrier signal alternately across frequencies, either in the left ear signal or the right ear signal in any given frequency band. As a result, the complete combination of two spectrally sparse but complementary spectral-time modulation patterns through both ears reveals the full spectral-time modulation pattern. The difference in performance between the above mode and the reference mode (e.g., a standard ACT test providing a reference modulation / detection threshold, or otherwise) reveals the increased difficulty induced by having only one reliable ear signal in any given frequency band. For optimal integration by the user, the performance is the same and the difference value is low or zero. For partial optimal integration by the user, the performance is low and the difference value is high (>0).

[0157] In addition, the difference value may be compared to the mean difference value measured for a group of young, healthy hearing individuals / subjects (normative data) in a similar test mode (i.e., a similar mode of the STM detection test unit). This allows for the determination of whether the user's ability to integrate through both ears is reduced / impaired.

[0158] Other modulation patterns should also be considered.

[0159] Figure 5 shows an exemplary stimulus configuration for testing spectral-temporal integration through both ears, as per the present application.

[0160] In Figure 5, the first probe stimulus 3 is presented to one ear of the user (not shown), and the second probe stimulus 4 is presented to the other ear of the user (not shown). Both stimuli 3 and 4 include spectral-time modulation. However, in the mode of Figure 5, the spectral-time modulation of the first probe stimulus 3 is spectrally different from the spectral-time modulation of the second probe stimulus 4.

[0161] In Figure 5, the first probe stimulus 3 provides spectral time modulation between the first frequency band f1 and the first time interval t1, and between the second frequency band f2 and the second time interval t2, but between the second frequency band f2 and the first time interval t1, and between the first frequency band f1 and the second time interval t2, frequency band f n and time interval t n It has been shown that it does not provide alternating modulation until then. On the other hand, the second probe stimulus 4 does not modulate between the first frequency band f1 and the first time interval t1, and between the second frequency band f2 and the second time interval t2, but between the second frequency band f2 and the first time interval t1, and between the first frequency band f1 and the second time interval t2, frequency band f n and time interval t n The spectral time modulation is performed alternately until [this point].

[0162] The mode in Figure 5 relates to spectral-temporal integration through both ears. The mode in Figure 5 measures the user's ability to integrate spectrally sparse spectral information through both ears to optimize performance. This is achieved by dividing the spectral-temporal modulation pattern given to the carrier signal into short-time windows and auditory-inspired frequency bands. The acquired time / frequency units are selected in a checkerboard manner such that the spectral-temporal modulation pattern of the left ear signal is perfectly complementary to the spectral-temporal modulation pattern of the right ear signal. In other words, if there is modulation in a given time / frequency unit of the left ear, there is nothing in the right ear, and vice versa. As a result, the complete combination of two spectrally sparse but complementary spectral-temporal modulation patterns through both ears reveals the full spectral-temporal modulation pattern. The difference in performance between the described test and a reference mode (e.g., a standard ACT test providing a reference modulation / detection threshold, or others) reveals the increased difficulty induced by having only one reliable ear signal in any given time / frequency unit. In the case of user-optimized integration, the performance is assumed to be the same and the difference value is low or zero. In the case of user-optimized partial integration, the performance is assumed to be low and the difference value is (>0).

[0163] Furthermore, the difference value may be compared to the mean difference value measured for a group of young, healthy hearing individuals / subjects (normative data) in a similar test mode (i.e., a similar mode of the STM detection test unit). This can determine whether the user's ability to integrate through both ears is reduced / impaired.

[0164] Other modulation patterns should also be considered.

[0165] Figures 2 through 5 show only the composition of the stimulus, and do not show the features of the STM detection test unit ("STM"), but it is clear that some or all of the features of the STM detection test unit ("STM") may be included.

[0166] In the detailed description and / or any of the claims, the structural features of the device described above are intended to be combined with the steps of the method, provided that they are appropriately replaced by the corresponding process.

[0167] Where used, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural form unless otherwise specified (i.e., they mean “at least one”). Furthermore, the terms “include,” “equip,” “contain,” and / or “equip,” where used herein, identify the presence of a described feature, integer, step, action, element, and / or component, but are understood not to exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, actions, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Also, where an element is referred to as “connected” or “combined” with another element, it may be directly connected or combined with the other element, but intervening elements may also be present unless otherwise explicitly stated. Furthermore, “connected” or “combined” as used herein may include being connected or combined wirelessly. Where used herein, the terms “and / or” include any combination and all combinations of one or more of the related enumerated items. The steps of the disclosed method are not limited to the exact order described herein unless otherwise specified.

[0168] Throughout this specification, any reference to features included as “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “a certain aspect,” or “may be,” means that the specific features, structures, or characteristics described in relation to the embodiments are included in at least one embodiment of this disclosure. Furthermore, specific features, structures, or characteristics may be appropriately combined in one or more embodiments of this disclosure. The foregoing descriptions are given to enable any person skilled in the art to carry out the various embodiments described herein. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art. The general principles defined herein may further be applied to other embodiments.

[0169] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but rather to encompass the entire scope consistent with the language of the claims. Here, references to singular elements are intended to mean "one or more" rather than "only one" unless otherwise specified. Unless otherwise specified, the term "several" means "one or more." [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0170] [Non-Patent Document 1] Bernstein, JGW, Danielsson, H., Hallgren, M., Stenfelt, S., Ronnberg, J., & Lunner, T. (2016). Spectrotemporal Modulation Sensitivity as a Predictor of Speech-Reception Performance in Noise With Hearing Aids. Trends in Hearing, 20(0). [Non-Patent Document 2] Bernstein, J. G. W., Mehraei, G., Shamma, S., Gallun, F. J., Theodoroff, S. M., & Leek, M. R. (2013). Spectrotemporal Modulation Sensitivity as a Predictor of Speech Intelligibility for Hearing-Impaired Listeners. Journal of the American Academy of Audiology, 24(4), 293-306.

Non-Patent Document 3

Non-Patent Document 4

Non-Patent Document 5

Claims

1. A stimulus generation unit including at least one output unit configured to present a first probe stimulus to one ear of the user and a second probe stimulus to the other ear of the user simultaneously with the first probe stimulus, The system comprises an analysis unit configured to determine the user's modulation / detection threshold in response to the presentation of a probe stimulus, The stimulus generation unit is configured to generate the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus, respectively, based on a carrier signal to which spectral time modulation has been applied. The spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus differs from the spectral time modulation of the second probe stimulus, The spectral information of the first probe stimulus in a certain first time interval differs at least partially from the spectral information of the second probe stimulus in the same first time interval. A spectral time modulation (STM) detection test unit wherein the spectral information of the first probe stimulus in a second time interval following the first time interval is at least partially different from the spectral information of the second probe stimulus in the second time interval.

2. The STM detection test unit according to claim 1, configured to operate in a plurality of different modes, each mode characterized by the difference between the spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus and the spectral time modulation of the second probe stimulus.

3. The fact that the spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus is different from the spectral time modulation of the second probe stimulus means that The STM detection test unit according to claim 1, wherein the degree and / or occurrence of the spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus is different from the degree and / or occurrence of the spectral time modulation of the second probe stimulus.

4. The STM detection test unit according to claim 1, wherein the analysis unit is configured to compare the user's modulation / detection threshold in response to a stimulus with a reference modulation / detection threshold.

5. Comparing the aforementioned modulation / detection thresholds means The STM detection test unit according to claim 4, wherein the analysis unit is configured to determine the difference between the user's modulation / detection threshold and the reference modulation / detection threshold.

6. The aforementioned reference modulation / detection threshold is as follows: In response to presenting the user's two ears with probe stimuli in a selected mode combination from the STM detection test unit, the user's modulation / detection threshold is determined. In response to presenting a combination of probe stimuli in the selected mode of the STM detection test unit to both ears of a normal hearing subject, the modulation / detection threshold of the normal hearing subject is determined, or The user's modulation / detection threshold is determined in response to the presentation of similar, sparse spectral time-modulated probe stimuli to both of the user's ears. The STM detection test unit according to claim 4, comprising one of the following.

7. Generating the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus is The STM detection test unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising the stimulation generation unit being configured to modulate the respective carrier signals of the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus with a modulator signal having an adjustable modulation depth parameter, wherein the modulation depth parameter determines the degree of modulation.

8. Generating the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus is The STM detection test unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the stimulus generation unit is configured to reduce the modulation depth parameter of either the first probe stimulus or the second probe stimulus by a modulation reduction parameter.

9. Generating the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus is The STM detection test unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the stimulus generation unit is configured to provide a mask to the modulator signals of the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus, respectively.

10. The STM detection test unit further includes a headset, and the headset is A first output transducer of the output unit for presenting the first probe stimulus to the user's one ear, The STM detection test unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a second output transducer of the output unit for presenting the second probe stimulus to the other ear of the user.

11. The STM detection test unit is equipped with one or more electrodes. The STM detection test unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the STM detection test unit is configured to determine the user's modulation / detection threshold based on the detection of the user's physiological response by one or more electrodes.

12. An STM detection test unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, An STM detection test system equipped with auxiliary devices.

13. A hearing aid adapted to be positioned in the ear of a hearing aid user, or inside the ear of the hearing aid user, or adapted to be fully or partially implanted in the head of the hearing aid user, An input unit for receiving an input sound signal from the environment of the hearing aid user and supplying at least one electrical input signal representing the input sound signal, The system comprises a processing unit that includes signal processing parameters for supplying at least one processed version of the electrical input signal, A hearing aid wherein the signal processing parameter is comprised of at least the difference between the user's modulation / detection threshold and the reference modulation / detection threshold as described in claim 5 or 6.

14. A stimulation generating unit including at least one output unit presents a first probe stimulus to one ear of the user, and presents a second probe stimulus to the other ear of the user simultaneously with the first probe stimulus; The analysis unit performs the steps of determining the user's modulation / detection threshold in response to the presentation of probe stimuli, The stimulation generation unit comprises the steps of generating the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus, respectively, based on a carrier signal to which spectral time modulation has been applied. The spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus differs from the spectral time modulation of the second probe stimulus, The spectral information of the first probe stimulus in a certain first time interval differs at least partially from the spectral information of the second probe stimulus in the same first time interval. A method wherein the spectral information of the first probe stimulus in a second time interval following the first time interval is at least partially different from the spectral information of the second probe stimulus in the second time interval.

15. The method is further, The method according to claim 14, further comprising the steps of comparing the user's modulation / detection threshold in response to a stimulus with a reference modulation / detection threshold, and determining the difference between the user's modulation / detection threshold and the reference modulation / detection threshold.

16. A stimulation generating unit including at least one output unit presents a first probe stimulus to one ear of the user and a second probe stimulus to the other ear of the user. The analysis unit performs the steps of determining the user's modulation / detection threshold in response to the presentation of probe stimuli, The stimulation generation unit generates the first probe stimulus and the second probe stimulus based on a carrier signal to which spectral time modulation has been applied, The step of adjusting the signal processing parameters of the user's hearing aid according to claim 13 based on a determined difference value between the user's modulation / detection threshold and a reference modulation / detection threshold, A method wherein the spectral time modulation of the first probe stimulus is different from the spectral time modulation of the second probe stimulus.

Images