Cable connection; electronic device; method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device; method for switching between different devices; sealing plug for the ear of a living being; method for enhancing the acoustic effect of an electronic device; method for protecting the hearing of a living being; audiometry method; and audio adapter

Abstract

The invention relates to: a cable connection; an electronic device; a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device; a method for switching between different devices; a sealing plug (13) for the ear of a living being; a method for enhancing the acoustic effect of an electronic device; a method for protecting the hearing of a living being; an audiometry method for measuring hearing performance and / or for diagnosing diseased auditory organs of a living being; and an audio adapter, wherein a wired speaker, in particular a piezo speaker (1), is used which is attached to the eardrum (11) and causes it to vibrate, wherein the ear canal (10) generally remains open, and the natural acoustic transparency of the outer ear is preserved since the cable connection from the electronic device to the speaker and the necessary otoplastic measures are typically placed at least partially outside the ear canal (10).

Description

[0001] Cable connection; Electronic device; Method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device; Method for changing different devices; Sealing plug for an ear of a living being; Method for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device; Method for protecting the hearing of a living being; Audiometry method; Audio adapter

[0002] State of the art

[0003] The invention is based on a cable connection according to the preamble of claim 1, an electronic device according to the preamble of claim 8, a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device according to the preamble of claim 13, a method for changing different devices according to the preamble of claim 16, a sealing plug for an ear of a living being according to the preamble of claim 20, a method for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device according to the preamble of claim 23, a method for protecting the hearing of a living being according to the preamble of claim 26, an audiometry method for measuring hearing performance and / or for diagnosing diseased hearing organs of a living being according to the preamble of claim 32, and an audio adapter according to the preamble of claim 38.

[0004] Electronic devices, especially hearing aids, especially behind-the-ear or in-the-ear hearing aids, have long been used to make hearing easier, especially for people with hearing loss. As described in the utility model DE 20 2021 104 342 U1, sound waves are picked up by an acoustic sensor and converted into electrical signals. Following electronic amplification, these signals are converted back into acoustic waves in a corresponding vibrating element placed in or near the user's ear. The intensity of the reconverted sound waves is higher than the intensity of the original sound waves picked up by the acoustic sensor. The disadvantage here is that the reconverted sound waves are conducted through the air in the ear canal towards the eardrum, which cannot be ruled out as a loss of intensity.Another disadvantage is that these hearing aids close at least part of the ear canal, which prevents natural sound transmission.

[0005] To overcome these disadvantages, hearing aids are known that have a cable running through the ear canal, to which a piezo loudspeaker is connected and attached directly to the eardrum. A piezo loudspeaker, which can also be called a hearing contact lens, is known from the documents US 10,206,045 B2 and DE 102019201 273 A1. The piezo loudspeaker is attached, for example, using an adhesive gel that connects the loudspeaker to the eardrum. The loudspeaker can be removed by an ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT doctor). The loudspeaker should be able to detach from the eardrum even if the cable is subjected to considerable tensile stress. However, this is very risky, as there is no guarantee that the eardrum will not be damaged. The consequences for the hearing-impaired person would be fatal. The disadvantage here is that the cable running through the ear canal carries the risk of tensile stress damaging the eardrum.

[0006] The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a cable connection which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, an electronic device which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, a method for changing different devices which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, a sealing plug for an ear of a living being which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, a method for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, a method for protecting the hearing of a living being which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art,and to provide an audiometry method for measuring hearing performance and / or for diagnosing diseased hearing organs of a living being, which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art, and an audio adapter which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0007] The invention and its advantages

[0008] The cable connection according to the invention, with the features of claim 1, the electronic device according to the invention, with the features of claim 8, the method according to the invention for the reversible production of a cable connection of an electronic device, with the features of claim 13, the method according to the invention for changing different devices, with the features of claim 16, the sealing plug for an ear of a living being according to the invention, with the features of claim 20, the method according to the invention for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device, with the features of claim 23, the method according to the invention for protecting the hearing of a living being, with the features of claim 26, the audiometry method according to the invention for measuring hearing performance and / or for diagnosing diseased hearing organs of a living being, with the features of claim 32, and the audio adapter according to the invention, with the features of claim 38,In contrast, they have the advantage that a wired loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker, which can also be referred to as a hearing contact lens or eardrum loudspeaker, is used, which is attached to the eardrum and stimulates it to vibrate. The ear canal generally remains open and the natural acoustic transparency of the outer ear is maintained, since the cable connection from the electronic device to the loudspeaker and the necessary otoplastic measures are generally placed at least partially outside the ear canal. The aim of this invention is therefore, in particular, to connect a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, or another electroacoustic system to a wired loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker, which is attached to the eardrum and stimulates it to vibrate.

[0009] The electroacoustic transmission of a signal from a signal processor via a wired piezo loudspeaker directly to the eardrum provides a signal path that runs parallel to natural sound transmission. Thus, the eardrum is stimulated both by natural airborne sound and by the direct signal from the piezo loudspeaker.

[0010] With direct transmission, electroacoustic information and its content, which is amplified by an electronic device (e.g., signal processor), can be processed more precisely through the parallel transmission path, thus transmitting it more dominantly to the eardrum than is possible with sound transmission. People with hearing loss benefit from parallel transmission because the acoustic information from their daily environment is processed and amplified in such a way that hearing and understanding are significantly easier in difficult acoustic situations. Thus, hearing loss can be better compensated for with the direct transmission chain to the eardrum than with pure, natural sound transmission. In many situations, direct transmission also has advantages for people with normal hearing.

[0011] To ensure acoustically transparent and natural transmission of the acoustic environment, this invention ensures that the outer ear and its auditory canal remain completely or almost completely open. Only in this way can people with hearing loss or those with normal hearing make almost unrestricted use of their available hearing naturally, via sound transmission to the eardrum.

[0012] To keep the ear canal open and maintain the natural acoustic transparency of the outer ear, the cable connecting the electronic device (e.g. signal processor) to the loudspeaker (e.g. piezo loudspeaker) must be placed as far outside the ear canal as possible. The use of an earmold sitting in the ear canal is completely avoided. A cable running in the ear canal carries the risk of tensile stress damaging the eardrum. The very thin cable could also be damaged when cleaning the ear. These risks are considered very high. To eliminate these risks, this invention describes a cable implant that allows the cable to be run outside the ear canal.This invention, which creates an implantable cable connection from a signal processor to a piezoelectric transducer on the eardrum, paves the way for market penetration of electroacoustic systems with wired piezoelectric loudspeakers.

[0013] It's conceivable that a prospective customer could be given the opportunity to test the invention before implantation. This would involve a cable connecting the eardrum speaker to the sound processor, which runs through the ear canal via a magnetic interface and an earmold holder. This would be a trial solution for the customer, who would like to try out the speaker for approximately one week before deciding on the implanted solution. As a permanent solution, it would be an option at best.

[0014] According to an advantageous embodiment of the cable connection according to the invention of an electronic device, in particular a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, an audiometer or another electroacoustic system, wherein the electronic device has a loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker, and a cable ending at the loudspeaker, wherein the cable connection has an interface by means of which a cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable running from the interface not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device.by means of which a cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable not running from the interface to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface to at least partially accommodate the cable running to the loudspeaker, the channel is a channel that can be implanted in a living being or the channel can be implanted in the living being at least partially outside the auditory canal of the living being.

[0015] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the cable connection according to the invention, the channel is a tube and / or a channel probe is arranged in the channel.

[0016] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the cable connection according to the invention, the interface has two magnetic contacts, one magnetic contact being connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker and the other magnetic contact being connected to the cable not running to the loudspeaker.

[0017] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the cable connection according to the invention, the interface has two plug contacts, one plug contact being connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker and the other plug contact being connected to the cable not running to the loudspeaker, or the interface has a plug contact and a coupling, the plug contact being connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker and the coupling being connected to the cable not running to the loudspeaker, or the coupling being connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker and the plug contact being connected to the cable not running to the loudspeaker. It would also be conceivable for the contacts to be connectable to or detachable from one another by means of a clamp contact or bayonet lock.

[0018] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the cable connection according to the invention, the interface has a transmitting coil and a receiving coil as contacts, wherein the receiving coil is connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker and / or the transmitting coil is connected to the cable not running to the loudspeaker. In a further advantageous embodiment of the cable connection according to the invention, the transmitting coil is located in the device and transmits the signal directly, without a cable, to the receiving coil. According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the cable connection according to the invention, the magnetic contact connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker and / or the plug contact connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker and / or the coupling connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker and / or the receiver coil connected to the cable running to the loudspeaker is a contact that can be implanted in a living being.

[0019] According to an advantageous embodiment of the electronic device according to the invention, which has a loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker, and a cable connection, wherein the cable connection can be implanted at least partially into a living being, the cable connection can be implanted at least partially into the living being outside the auditory canal of the living being.

[0020] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the electronic device according to the invention, the loudspeaker can be arranged on a eardrum of the living being.

[0021] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the electronic device according to the invention, the electronic device is a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, an audiometer or another electroacoustic system

[0022] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the electronic device according to the invention, the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention for the reversible production of a cable connection of an electronic device, in particular a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, an audiometer or another electroacoustic system, wherein the electronic device has a loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker, and a cable ending at the loudspeaker, wherein the cable connection has an interface through which a cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable running from the interface not to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device.by means of which a cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable running from the interface not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface to at least partially accommodate the cable running to the loudspeaker and during the connection of the cable running to the loudspeaker to the cable not running to the loudspeaker or the separation of the cable running to the loudspeaker from the cable not running to the loudspeaker, the cable connection and / or the channel is at least partially implanted in a living being, the cable connection and / or the channel is at least partially implanted in the living being outside the auditory canal of the living being.

[0024] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, and / or the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12.

[0025] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention for changing different devices, wherein a device is in particular a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, an audiometer or another electroacoustic system, wherein the electronic device has a cable connection, wherein a device has two cables that are connected to one another by an interface of the cable connection, wherein a channel is connected to the interface to at least partially accommodate the cable running to the loudspeaker and, to change to another device, the second cable is separated from the cable running to the loudspeaker in order to connect another cable of the other device to the remaining cable running to the loudspeaker or wherein a device has a cable that is connected to the device by an interface of the cable connection,wherein a channel is connected to the interface to at least partially accommodate the cable running to the loudspeaker, and to switch to another device, the device to be removed is separated from the cable in order to connect the other device to the remaining cable, the cable connection and / or the channel is at least partially implanted in a living being.

[0026] The wired, mechanical connection as well as a wireless connection between the interface on the head and the device allows the user to change the device easily and safely. The piezo loudspeaker and the implanted cable connection to the head surface function as an independent, closed unit that cannot be changed when the device is changed. This means the user can remove and put back on the device every day or replace it with another device, e.g. a communication device. Handling is significantly easier than with conventional hearing systems. The procedure also offers the option of connecting an audiometer for in situ audiometry. The simple device change also has the advantage that hearing aids with different properties can be tried out quickly and easily, and thanks to the in situ calculation, no complex and new hearing aid adjustment is necessary.For the first time, the customer can now decide quickly and reliably which hearing aid is best for them. This is a first in the industry. A direct hearing aid comparison is currently not so easy with traditional hearing aids, as the physical replacement of a hearing aid takes more time to register a difference. While a software-based upgrade of hearing aid technology, which works quickly, can adversely affect sound transmission and ear canal components. With the click interface and in-situ calculation, the hearing aid comparison is completed in just a few seconds.

[0027] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the cable connection and / or the channel is implanted into the living being at least partially outside the auditory canal of the living being.

[0028] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, and / or the method is used to carry out a method for reversibly producing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15.

[0029] According to an advantageous embodiment of the closure plug according to the invention for an ear of a living being, wherein the closure plug is produced in the form of a custom-made earmold or from another flexible instant variant, the closure plug is completely closed or the closure plug has at least one vent channel.

[0030] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the closure plug according to the invention, at least one vent channel is variably adjustable.

[0031] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device, wherein an electronic device, in particular a hearing aid, is used which has a loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker, which is arranged directly on the eardrum for the direct transmission of signals sent from the electronic device to an eardrum of an ear of a living being, wherein a closure plug is used which at least partially prevents signals entering the ear naturally from reaching the eardrum directly, a cable connection is used, wherein the cable connection has a cable which ends at the loudspeaker, and the cable connection has an interface,by which the cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable running from the interface not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device, or by which the cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable running from the interface not to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface to at least partially accommodate the cable running to the loudspeaker.

[0032] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, the method is used to carry out a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15, the method is used to carry out a method for changing different devices according to one of claims 16 to 19 and / or the sealing plug is a sealing plug according to one of claims 20 to 22.

[0033] The fundamental problem, which is solved by the inventive plug and the inventive method for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device, is that with previous, conventional fittings, the sound is directed from the hearing aid into the ear canal. This results in three undesirable factors that impair the hearing outcome:

[0034] - Part of the sound intensity is lost on the way to the eardrum.

[0035] - In the case of mostly open fittings, part of the amplified sound escapes through the ear canal (loss).

[0036] - Noise and ambient sounds from outside enter the ear directly and thus reach the eardrum. They can overwhelm the signal (e.g., speech) amplified and filtered by the hearing aid. Very loud external noise can impair speech intelligibility. Closing the ear canal may help. However, the disadvantage is that closing the ear canal changes the acoustic properties of the entire hearing aid, since the loudspeaker in conventional hearing aids is located in the ear canal. Furthermore, the volume and sound are often not acceptable to the customer.

[0037] With the inventive direct sound transmission from the hearing aid to the eardrum, the acoustic properties of the individual ear canal play no role. The sound signal amplified by the hearing aid (e.g. speech) is therefore always transmitted to the eardrum intensively and dominantly. It is irrelevant whether the ear canal is open or closed. The sound from the hearing aid and speech intelligibility are always better than with conventional hearing aids. Nevertheless, even with direct sound transmission from the hearing aid to the eardrum, e.g. very loud ambient noises can reach the eardrum via the open ear canal. This direct noise can overwhelm the signal from the hearing aid and in some cases have a negative effect. This principle also applies to people with normal hearing.

[0038] In such extreme situations, the insertion of an earplug according to the invention can provide relief. By closing the ear with a plug, external noise is prevented from entering the ear canal. The customer only hears the signal amplified by the hearing aid. This is often so clear and distinct that in many cases they hear better than a person with normal hearing. The earplug can be used as a solution to increase the acoustic effect of the hearing aid in very difficult listening situations. The sound and the hearing aid volume are not or only slightly affected. This type of amplification of the performance of hearing aids was previously not possible and leads to very high customer satisfaction. The sealing plug according to the invention can also be used for devices used by people with normal hearing. For example, if a mobile phone is connected to the implanted piezo loudspeaker via Bluetooth, telephone calls, e.g.in a noisy exhibition hall, can be carried out almost silently if the closure plug according to the invention is inserted into the ear.

[0039] To influence the degree of attenuation provided by the inventive plug, and thus the acoustic effect of hearing aids, the plug according to the invention can be manufactured in the form of an earmold. The earmold can be completely sealed or a vent channel can be incorporated, which, depending on its length and / or diameter, changes the acoustic effect of the hearing aid.

[0040] To adjust the attenuation and acoustic effect of hearing aids to suit the specific situation, a variable vent channel can be incorporated into the earmold. The channel's length and / or diameter can be mechanically adjusted. This allows the wearer to adjust the effectiveness of their hearing aid. The inventive plug can also be made of other materials (e.g., soft material). Furthermore, this plug can also serve as noise protection to protect the hearing aid wearer from continuous, high-intensity direct noise exposure.

[0041] According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention for protecting the hearing of a living being, in which an electronic device is used which is a signal processor and has a microphone for detecting signals and a loudspeaker, wherein the loudspeaker is arranged on an eardrum of an ear of the living being to be protected, and the microphone transmits the detected signals at least partially to the loudspeaker, so that signals reach the eardrum on the one hand by being transmitted by the signal processor and on the other hand naturally by entering the ear, wherein the transmission of the signals by the signal processor takes place with a time delay, whereby a resulting phase shift leads to a cancellation or at least to a reduction of the signals transmitted by the signal processor, the signal processor delays the transmission with a phase shift of 180°.According to the invention, the natural noise sound picked up by the ear reaches the eardrum and is overlaid with the noise signal delayed by the hearing aid. Since the phase position in the hearing aid is preferably delayed by 180°, both signals cancel each other out on the eardrum. The sound intensity is equal to "0" – the noise sound is thus canceled out. The cancellation occurs via the phase position of both signals and the level.

[0042] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the signal processor only forwards low-frequency signals and / or no frequencies for speech.

[0043] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the signal processor forwards all signals as long as no frequencies for speech are detected, and as soon as frequencies for speech are detected, only signals that do not relate to the frequencies for speech are forwarded. According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, a cable connection is used, wherein the cable connection has a cable that ends at the loudspeaker, and the cable connection has an interface by means of which the cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable running from the interface not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device.the cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker is connectable to a cable not running from the interface to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface to at least partially accommodate the cable running to the loudspeaker.

[0044] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, the method is used to carry out a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15 and / or the method is used to carry out a method for changing different devices according to one of claims 16 to 19.

[0045] The inventive method for protecting the hearing of a living being creates digitally adaptive hearing protection that overcomes the disadvantages of conventional hearing protection. Hearing protection is frequently used where hearing needs to be protected from excessive noise exposure. Wearing hearing protection at work is legally required if the average noise level exceeds 80 dB over a period of eight hours. Conventional hearing protection mechanically seals the ear and ear canal, achieving the greatest possible noise attenuation. The more tightly the ear is sealed, the greater the attenuation of the external noise level reaching the eardrum. The disadvantage of this is that even small leaks can render the hearing protection ineffective. Such leaks can occur due to jaw movement, for example, when chewing or speaking.This is especially true for low-frequency noise, as it has long wavelengths and the highest sound intensity. Even with a strong seal, a further disadvantage arises: outside speech can hardly be understood, and one's own voice sounds unnatural and booming. Special filters in hearing protection can allow speech frequencies to pass through, thus improving speech understanding only to a limited extent.

[0046] According to the invention, the remedial digital adaptive hearing protection is based on a signal processor with a piezo speaker located on the eardrum. The major advantage is that the ear remains completely free, and your own voice sounds natural. Furthermore, there are no sealing problems and no feeling of pressure in the ear.

[0047] According to the invention, the signal processor at the ear is equipped with a microphone that picks up ambient noise and transmits it to the piezo loudspeaker on the eardrum. Due to the direct noise received by the ear and naturally conducted through the ear canal to the eardrum, two transmission paths of the noise to the eardrum are created: first, the direct noise received by the ear and conducted through the ear canal to the eardrum, and second, the noise received and processed by the signal processor, which is transmitted directly to the piezo loudspeaker on the eardrum.

[0048] Both noise signals therefore reach the eardrum directly. However, the noise signal is processed with a time delay by the signal processor (e.g. hearing aid). The signal processor delays the noise signal with a phase shift of 180° so that the peak of the sound wave from the hearing aid coincides with the trough of the natural sound wave on the eardrum. Since these hit the eardrum at the same time, these levels cancel each other out completely. The result is "0" - the noise signal is canceled out. This method is made possible by the piezo loudspeaker connected to the signal processor, which sits directly on the eardrum. The signal processor can be used to change the sound signal to the eardrum as desired, for example in terms of level and / or phase, as well as frequency. This opens up various possibilities for canceling out noise.Electronic hearing protection also offers the advantage of filtering out speech by only eliminating noise frequencies outside the speech range. Digital adaptive hearing protection is thus an intelligent system that can be individually adjusted to the user's individual needs and the noise situation.

[0049] There are basically different variants for noise attenuation. Maximum hearing protection is achieved by the anti-phase cancellation of all frequencies. This enables full hearing protection with maximum effectiveness across all frequencies. Alternatively, hearing protection with a speech filter can provide maximum hearing protection, but the relevant frequencies for speech are not canceled. In this way, for example, low-frequency noise signals are canceled out while speech is transmitted. People who work in a machine shop, for example, can still understand people who are spoken to despite low-frequency noise. Adaptive hearing protection is also possible. For example, if a person worksIn a factory with high noise levels, where the noise varies in frequency and level, adaptive hearing protection is used effectively when, for example, the worker moves through different areas of a machine hall with varying noise levels, where the levels and frequencies of the noise change, but still wants to be able to speak to his colleagues. In such challenging situations, the signal processor detects whether speech is present in the noise. If speech is detected in the noise, anti-phase cancellation is only carried out in the frequencies that lie outside the speech range. The disruptive noise components are effectively attenuated while the speech is simultaneously transmitted. If the conversation ends and no more speech components are detected, the adaptive hearing protection intervenes again with a broadband signal.In this case, all frequencies are canceled out and maximum hearing protection is automatically activated. This type of digitally adaptive hearing protection can be used in various devices for people with normal hearing as well as for hearing aid wearers. The mode of operation can be fixed, e.g. to always provide maximum and broadband noise reduction, or adaptive for intelligent, automatic noise reduction, taking speech into account. According to an advantageous embodiment of the audiometry method according to the invention for measuring hearing performance and / or for diagnosing diseased hearing organs of a living being, in which a loudspeaker is used which is arranged on a eardrum of an ear of the living being to be measured, the audiometry method is used for tone audiometry, speech audiometry in quiet and / or speech audiometry in noise.

[0050] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, an auditory canal leading to the eardrum is closed by a closure, in particular a closure plug, before or at least temporarily during the audiometry method.

[0051] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, an electronic device and / or a cable connection are used, wherein the cable connection has a cable that ends at the loudspeaker, and the cable connection has an interface by means of which the cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable that does not run from the interface to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device, or by means of which the cable running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable that does not run from the interface to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface to at least partially accommodate the cable running to the loudspeaker.

[0052] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, at least some of the values ​​measured during the audiometry procedure form a calculation basis for the customer-specific adjustment of a hearing aid. This has the advantage that the hearing aid can be adjusted without the customer being present. This makes it possible, for example, to send the adjusted hearing aid to the customer, who can then use it immediately upon receipt.

[0053] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, the method is used to carry out a method for reversibly producing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15, the method is used to carry out a method for changing different devices according to one of claims 16 to 19, and / or the closure is a closure plug according to one of claims 20 to 22.

[0054] According to the invention, the device has a cable that is plugged into the device on the one hand and creates an electrical connection to the interface on the head (sleeve, socket) on the other. The connection to the interface is, for example, a magnetic contact, plug contact, clamp contact or bayonet lock. The cable is available in different lengths so that the device can be positioned behind the ear or in the ear. The cable and the plug for the head interface are provided with moisture protection made of a sweat-resistant, biocompatible material, e.g. rubber, silicone, plastic or Kevlar®. Furthermore, the device has a plug connection integrated in the housing with which the device is connected directly to the head interface (sleeve) without a connecting cable. It is also conceivable that the electrical interface between the head and device could be a wireless interface (e.g. radio, Bluetooth, inductive, optical or capacitive).The inductive connections from the device to the interface on the head mentioned here have already been described and are implemented with a transmitter coil in the device and a receiver coil that is implanted under the scalp.

[0055] According to the invention, the devices, which are available as behind-the-ear or in-the-ear devices, have versatile features and can cover a wide range of applications. For example, devices for people with hearing impairment (hearing aids), devices for people with normal hearing, devices for various professional groups, or other areas of application.

[0056] The electrical connection between the external interface on the head (e.g. socket) and the loudspeaker (e.g. piezo loudspeaker) on the eardrum is made via a direct cable connection. A channel (e.g. cable duct, tube) is laid (implanted) from a point on the outer head into the ear canal. The canal entry on the head can be located in the area of ​​the auricle, for example. The channel (e.g. cable duct, tube) is laid once and serves as an "empty tube" into which the cable connection is pulled. This means that the internal cable connection can be replaced at any time. The electronic device, e.g. the sound processor, is connected to the interface on the outer head. This connection can be made in various ways, as described below.

[0057] The inventive audiometry method differs significantly from the previous classic method. Conventional pure tone audiometry has traditionally been performed using headphones. Most hearing aids already have an audiometer function, allowing hearing care professionals to perform pure tone audiometry even with a hearing aid. Because the two pure tone audiometry methods are very different, they often produce different results. This is due to the different sound transmission through the ear canal, caused by the different acoustic conditions of the entire outer ear and the different coupling conditions to the ear. The headphones are placed on or over the auricle. A conventional hearing aid uses a miniature loudspeaker with a limited bandwidth. This is placed in the ear canal, which alters the acoustic conditions.For accurate and unambiguous audiometry, it is therefore advantageous according to the invention that all audiometry methods use the same reference surface – the eardrum. This has the advantage that all measurements are taken without taking into account the individual characteristics of the ear and are therefore comparable.

[0058] Another problem with traditional headphone measurements is the ability to hear the measurement tones in the other ear. This occurs when levels of approximately 50 dB or higher are applied to the ear being measured. These loud levels are transmitted as bone conduction through the head to the other ear, making them audible. This can lead to a falsified measurement in the ear being tested.

[0059] The following inventive methods describe solutions that solve almost all previous problems. - Direct tone audiometry (in situ audiometry)

[0060] In the inventive method for pure tone audiometry, the pure tone audiometer or the hearing aid (with audiometer function) is connected directly to the piezo loudspeaker on the eardrum. The generated measuring tones thus reach the eardrum directly. In this way, the hearing loss is measured unambiguously, without the influence of the outer ear. Since measurements with the pure tone audiometer or with the hearing aid use the same reference surface—the eardrum—both measurements lead to the same result. This finding is of great importance for the subsequent steps in hearing aid fitting.

[0061] Because the measurements are taken directly on the eardrum, this is the first time we can speak of in situ audiometry (direct audiometry at the site of the event). With direct audiometry, the test signals are presented at a significantly lower level than with headphones. This virtually eliminates the possibility of these test tones being overheard in the other ear. Inaccurate measurements are thus avoided. It also shortens the audiometry time. Direct tone audiometry also offers advantages when measuring the loudness of very quiet to very loud signals. The data from the so-called loudness scaling can then be used to calculate the hearing aid amplification. In this way, the amplification for very quiet to very loud sounds can be calculated even more precisely. By correctly utilizing the entire dynamic range, hearing is improved overall.

[0062] Some fitting rooms have a noise level in the range of 40 dB. This can affect tone audiometry, as measurements here operate at the hearing threshold in the range of approximately 10 dB. The appropriate solution is an earplug. To eliminate the background noise, an inventive plug can be inserted into the ear. Since this does not affect the measurement, a precise result is achieved in tone audiometry. The plug in the ear, in combination with direct measurement on the eardrum, improves the measurement results even in rooms with increased noise levels.

[0063] Speech audiometry (in quiet) During speech audiometry, the speech signal generated by the audiometer (words defined as monosyllabic or polysyllabic) is played over loudspeakers in a free-field setting. The patient is asked to repeat the words heard without a hearing aid. For evaluation, the percentage of correctly understood words is calculated = speech understanding percentage - without a hearing aid.

[0064] The same procedure is used to determine speech comprehension with a hearing aid. However, the client now listens through their customized hearing aid, which, according to the invention, is connected directly to the eardrum. This results in speech comprehension in percent with a hearing aid. It can be assumed that the speech comprehension score will be better than with a traditional hearing aid.

[0065] - Speech audiometry in noise

[0066] When performing speech audiometry in noise, the speech signal is presented alongside a background noise via free-field loudspeakers (the procedure is the same as for speech audiometry (in quiet)). The background noise is 5 dB quieter than the speech signal. Speech comprehension is more difficult in this case. The percentage of words correctly understood by the client is then calculated = the comprehension rate without a hearing aid in noise.

[0067] For comparison, speech intelligibility in noise is now determined with a hearing aid (same procedure as without a hearing aid). The percentage of words correctly understood by the client is then calculated = the comprehension rate with a hearing aid in noise. Since the hearing aid also transmits the amplified signal directly to the eardrum, speech intelligibility can be assumed to be better than with a conventional hearing aid. This is true even though the sound is also picked up and heard through the ear.

[0068] Since the speech signal and background noise are also picked up through the ear when measuring speech intelligibility in noise with a hearing aid, a mix of the amplified signal from the hearing aid and the signal reaching the eardrum via the ear is created at the eardrum. To further improve speech intelligibility in such difficult situations, an inventive plug can be inserted into the ear. The plug blocks the natural path of the speech signal and background noise to the eardrum. Only the amplified and filtered speech signal from the hearing aid remains, which is directed directly to the eardrum. The result is a significant improvement in speech intelligibility in noise with a hearing aid – something never before possible. With this method, people with hearing loss can hear better than people with normal hearing in acoustically difficult situations!

[0069] - Direct speech audiometry (in situ speech audiometry) to demonstrate pure hearing aid performance

[0070] In direct speech audiometry, the test signals (monosyllabic and polysyllabic words) generated by the audiometer are applied directly to the eardrum. The signals amplified and filtered by the hearing aid are also applied to the eardrum. Since the measurements are always performed at the same reference plane (the eardrum), the results are more comparable.

[0071] In direct speech audiometry (speech in quiet – without background noise), a speech audiometer is connected to the implanted piezo loudspeaker, and thus to the eardrum. Defined words (monosyllabic / polysyllabic) are generated and transmitted to the eardrum. The percentage of words correctly understood by the client is then evaluated, which indicates speech understanding without a hearing aid.

[0072] Speech comprehension is then measured in a free-field setting using a hearing aid fitted to the client's ear via loudspeaker. The hearing aid is also directly connected to the eardrum. The words understood by the client are then evaluated as a percentage = speech comprehension with a hearing aid.

[0073] For speech in noise, the two measurements described above are repeated but also with noise. The evaluation is also carried out without and with a hearing aid = speech understanding in noise without and with a hearing aid. The ear canal remains open. Another measurement is also carried out with speech and noise, but speech understanding in noise is only evaluated with a hearing aid and with an inventive plug in the ear. Here, too, a very high level of speech understanding can be assumed, something previously unattainable with conventional hearing aids, because the inventive plug prevents the noise from directly penetrating the ear.

[0074] Direct speech audiometry, in conjunction with the inventive plug, is a method for determining the pure hearing aid performance in terms of improving speech intelligibility. The eardrum serves as the acoustic reference plane for the speech signal (with / without background noise) as well as the reference plane for the hearing aid signal. This is important because it is the only way to make an "objective" comparison. It allows measurements to be performed without the acoustic effect of the outer ear and without the influence of external background noise via the ear. This is a first in the hearing aid industry and a further milestone in the quality of hearing aid provision, as well as an important tool for the fitter (hearing care professional). The direct speech audiometry method can therefore also be referred to as in situ speech audiometry.

[0075] The invention makes it possible for the first time to qualitatively evaluate the performance of hearing aids in background noise, giving retailers / providers a compelling argument for selling high-quality hearing aids with a co-pay. This method, for the first time, enables a qualitative comparison of different hearing aids in speech understanding in background noise. By measuring speech understanding in %, the best results when used with different hearing aids can be demonstrated. This allows the performance of higher-quality hearing aids, which are generally more expensive, to be verified.

[0076] Until now, it has been virtually impossible to compare the performance of hearing aids in speech testing. The performance of different hearing aids differs depending on the type of signal processing, e.g., speech filtering, noise suppression, noise reduction through directional hearing, or speech enhancement technology.

[0077] For better speech understanding, it is therefore crucial how well the hearing aid separates speech from background noise and can amplify speech as effectively as possible. Because the hearing aid is directly connected to the eardrum, a significant improvement in speech understanding can be expected compared to conventional hearing aids. The success of the hearing aid's performance can be demonstrated by the results of the speech tests described above (in percent). This allows the hearing care professional (fitter) to compare the quality of different hearing aids, determine the performance of hearing aids, and, for the first time, evaluate the quality of hearing aids. The end user can then choose the better hearing aid.

[0078] For direct audiometry on the eardrum, the interface on the scalp is used. The audiometer cable can be connected directly to this interface. The piezo loudspeaker replaces the traditional headphones. This allows for comfortable audiometry without headphones.

[0079] Completely wireless audiometry is possible by attaching a miniature radio receiver (e.g., Bluetooth) to the head interface, which is wirelessly connected to the audiometer. This method further improves the comfort of the audiometry measurement for the client.

[0080] One advantage of direct audiometry at the eardrum is that the measured values ​​are very precise and can then be used to calculate hearing aid amplification. Since direct audiometry, as well as the required sound power of the hearing aid, use the same reference plane (the eardrum), an exact calculation of hearing aid amplification can be achieved.

[0081] Since audiometry is performed directly on the eardrum and the calculation is also performed at the reference plane (eardrum), we can speak of in situ audiometry and in situ calculation. In situ calculation is a new calculation method for determining precise hearing aid settings. This involves calculating the hearing aid amplification based on in situ audiometry. It leads to more precise hearing aid settings. The hearing aids can be adjusted without the patient being present, as it allows for adjustment based purely on the values ​​of in situ tone audiometry. This method eliminates the need for traditional and time-consuming in situ measurements, in which a probe microphone is placed in the ear canal, in front of the eardrum.The results of this method are even more accurate than those of the classic in situ measurement, as ear canal resonances and incorrect placement of the probe microphone are excluded.

[0082] Instead of using in-situ calculations, the hearing aid adjustment can also be performed very precisely manually by adjusting the hearing aid to the target in the pure tone audiogram using an "inflation curve." Loudness data from very soft to very loud can also be incorporated 1:1 into the hearing aid calculation.

[0083] Because in situ audiometry and in situ calculations provide precise values ​​for accurate hearing aid adjustment, the hearing aid can be adjusted at a later date—for the first time, even without the patient present. This opens up new avenues for care, such as online delivery of hearing aids directly to the patient's home.

[0084] To ensure that the customer hears their surroundings as naturally as they are used to through their ears, the acoustic function of the entire outer ear (pinna and ear canal) must be taken into account when calculating the hearing aid amplification. This is because the hearing aid, as a behind-the-ear device, sits outside the pinna and receives sound signals from the environment via the microphone – not through the customer's ear. For this purpose, either the standardized function of the outer ear (REUG / OEG) from the fitting software or the individual ear function (REUG / OEG) measured on the customer's ear can be used. However, different OEG values ​​(from different ears) can also be stored in the fitting software, which can then be tested. This can increase end customer acceptance and shorten the fitting time. Gradual acclimatization of the customer to the necessary amplification of the hearing aid is also of great importance here and should contribute to almost complete compensation of the hearing loss.

[0085] The above steps ensure that the hearing aid amplification is calculated with a very high level of precision, something previously unattainable. The result is a clear and precise presetting of the hearing aids in terms of loudness, tone, and dynamics. The customer hears the world around them naturally again. The fitting time is also shorter, resulting in greater customer satisfaction.

[0086] When in situ audiometry is performed with a hearing aid, the measurement tones are transmitted directly from the hearing aid to the piezo loudspeaker, which has a wider frequency range than hearing aids with a traditional receiver. This allows hearing loss to be assessed over a broader range with in situ audiometry than with a traditional hearing aid. The calculation of hearing aid amplification is therefore more precise. With the extended frequency transmission in the low-frequency range, the hearing system can produce a better sound image and thus higher customer acceptance. The entire fitting process, as well as speech intelligibility, is further improved.

[0087] According to an advantageous embodiment of the audio adapter according to the invention, which has a housing having a first end and a second end, wherein a socket, a plug, a coil (e.g. receiver coil, transmitter coil) or a contact plate (e.g. magnetic contact plate) is arranged at the first end for the direct or indirect connection of an electronic device and a socket, a plug, a coil (e.g. receiver coil, transmitter coil) or a contact plate (e.g. magnetic contact plate) is arranged at the second end for the direct or indirect connection of a loudspeaker, the audio adapter can be at least partially implanted in a living being.

[0088] According to an additional advantageous embodiment of the audio adapter according to the invention, the audio adapter has a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the audio adapter is part of an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, the audio adapter can be used in a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15, the audio adapter can be used in a method for changing different devices according to one of claims 16 to 19, the audio adapter can be used in a method for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device according to one of claims 23 to 25, the audio adapter can be used in a method for protecting the hearing of a living being according to one of claims 26 to 31,and / or the audio adapter can be used in an audiometry method for measuring hearing performance and / or for diagnosing diseased hearing organs of a living being, according to one of claims 32 to 37.

[0089] Further advantages and advantageous embodiments of the invention can be found in the following description and the drawings.

[0090] Drawings

[0091] A preferred embodiment of the subject matter according to the invention is illustrated in the drawings and is explained in more detail below. It shows

[0092] Fig. 1 is a sketch of an object according to the invention as a behind-the-ear device (BTE device) or in-the-ear device (ITE device),

[0093] Fig. 2 a sleeve,

[0094] Fig. 3 is a sketch of a behind-the-ear device (BDO device) according to the invention,

[0095] Fig. 4 a sleeve 5 in the form of a magnetic contact socket, Fig. 5 a sketch of a cable connection according to the invention with an in-the-ear device (ITE device),

[0096] Fig. 6 a sketch of a closure plug according to the invention in connection with a behind-the-ear hearing aid (BTE),

[0097] Fig. 7 is a sketch of an interface according to the invention to which an audiometer is connected as an electronic device,

[0098] Fig. 8 a sketch of an audiometer connected directly to the piezo loudspeaker,

[0099] Fig. 9 a sketch of an audiometer connected to the piezo loudspeaker using an earmold that has a magnetic contact to separate the cable connection

[0100] Fig. 10 is a sketch of an audiometry method according to the invention, connected to a cable connection according to the invention with a sealing plug according to the invention,

[0101] Fig. 11 shows a further sketch of an audiometry method according to the invention, integrated in a hearing aid, connected to a cable connection according to the invention,

[0102] Fig. 12 a closure plug according to the invention (closed),

[0103] Fig. 13 a closure plug according to the invention with a vent channel,

[0104] Fig. 14 Sketch of a cable connection / tube according to the invention, passed through the soft head tissue as a behind-the-ear device (BTE device) or in-the-ear device (ITE device), Fig. 15 Sketch of a cable connection with cable probe according to the invention, as a behind-the-ear device (BTE device) or in-the-ear device (ITE device),

[0105] Fig. 16 Sketch of a cable probe according to the invention with head interface and plug connection to the eardrum loudspeaker, according to Fig. 15,

[0106] Fig. 17 Sketch of a channel guide according to the invention from the head entry, i.e. a channel entrance, e.g. above the auricle, to the channel exit to the auditory canal,

[0107] Fig. 18 a sketch of a channel guide according to the invention from the head entry, i.e. a channel entrance, e.g. at the mastoid, to the channel exit to the auditory canal,

[0108] Fig. 19 a sketch of a canal guide according to the invention, i.e. a canal entrance e.g. at the tragus to the canal exit to the auditory canal,

[0109] Fig. 20 is another perspective of a sketch of a canal guide according to the invention, i.e. a canal entrance, for example, at the tragus to the canal exit to the auditory canal, according to Fig. 19, and

[0110] Fig. 21 is a sketch of a head interface according to the invention, which uses inductive transmission via two coils, as a behind-the-ear device (BTE device) or in-the-ear device (ITE device).

[0111] Description of the embodiment

[0112] Figs. 1 and 14 show a sketch of an object according to the invention. The electronic device, which can be configured as a behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or alternatively as an in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device), can be a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, or another electroacoustic system that can be connected to a wired piezo loudspeaker 1, which can also be referred to as a hearing contact lens or eardrum loudspeaker, which is mounted on the eardrum 11 and causes it to vibrate.

[0113] The electroacoustic transmission of a signal from a signal processor via a wired piezo loudspeaker 1 directly to the eardrum 11 represents a signal path that runs parallel to natural sound transmission. Thus, the eardrum 11 is stimulated both by natural airborne sound and by the direct signal from the piezo loudspeaker.

[0114] With direct transmission, electroacoustic information and its content, which is amplified by a signal processor, for example, can be processed more precisely through the parallel transmission path and thus transmitted more dominantly to the eardrum 11 than is possible with sound transmission. People with hearing loss benefit from parallel transmission because the acoustic information from their daily environment is processed and amplified in such a way that hearing and understanding are significantly easier in difficult acoustic situations. Thus, a hearing loss can be compensated for better with the direct transmission chain to the eardrum 11 than with pure, natural sound transmission. In many situations, direct transmission also has advantages for people with normal hearing.

[0115] To ensure acoustically transparent and continued natural transmission of the acoustic environment, this invention must ensure that the outer ear, with its auditory canal 10, remains completely open. Only in this way can people with hearing impairment or those with normal hearing continue to fully utilize their available hearing naturally, via sound transmission to the eardrum 11.

[0116] To ensure that the ear canal 10 remains open and the natural acoustic transparency of the outer ear is maintained, a cable connection from the signal processor to the piezo loudspeaker 1 must be placed as far outside the ear canal 10 as possible. A cable running inside the ear canal 10 carries the risk of damage to the eardrum due to tensile stress. The very thin cable could also be damaged when cleaning the ear. These risks would be considered very high. To eliminate these risks, this invention describes a cable implant that allows the cable to run at least partially outside the ear canal 10. This invention paves the way for market penetration of electroacoustic systems with wired piezo loudspeakers 1.

[0117] Many people who rely on acoustic transmission via a wired piezo loudspeaker 1 generally do not want any disturbing foreign bodies in the ear canal 10, as these can impair natural sound transmission. Furthermore, foreign bodies in the ear canal 10 can cause skin irritation or painful pressure points. Implanting the cable connection outside the ear canal 10 avoids the use of any foreign bodies in the ear canal 10 and thus increases the acceptance of a wired loudspeaker (piezo loudspeaker 1) on the eardrum 11.

[0118] The cable implant is made possible by means of a canal created in the head. As shown in Fig. 1, a canal is laid from the outer head (e.g., near the auricle) through a part of the skull bone 18, i.e., through the head bone, directly to the auditory canal 10. Alternatively or additionally, the canal can run from the outer head (near the auricle) through the soft tissue 19, as shown in Fig. 14. The canal can thus be laid through the skull bone 18 and / or through the soft tissue 19 of the head. The canal opening to the auditory canal can be located centrally in the auditory canal area or up to just before the eardrum 11. The insertion of the cable canal through the soft tissue 19 is a minimally invasive operation that can usually be performed on an outpatient basis. A thin tube 3 made of a medically safe and biocompatible material (e.g., titanium) is inserted into this drilled canal. The tube 3 forms a channel that carries a thin cable 4 (e.g.,Wire, flexible strand or similar cable connection) leads from the piezo loudspeaker 1 to the outside, in the direction of, for example, the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or alternatively the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device). The cable enters the tube 3 in the ear canal 10, just before the eardrum 11. The cable 4 ends at an interface 6, for example a magnetic interface having magnetic contacts, on the outer head. In this way, the piezo loudspeaker 1 with cable 4 can be replaced in the event of a defect. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device) to be connected wirelessly to the loudspeaker (e.g., piezo loudspeaker 1).

[0119] The mechanical interface 6 on the head can be available in various designs, such as a magnetic contact socket, a plug-in contact socket, or a socket with a bayonet lock or similar. The electronic device can be connected to the socket on the head via a short cable. Alternatively, the electronic device can have a connector built into the housing that plugs directly into the socket on the head. A connecting cable is thus eliminated.

[0120] To ensure that the electrical connection between the electronic device (processor) and the head interface remains "current-free," a galvanic coupling must be implemented, at least capacitively or inductively. The connection types described above allow the user (customer, specialist) to quickly and easily remove and attach the electronic device for different purposes or applications (e.g., a hearing aid instead of a Bluetooth receiver). This allows, for example, devices for people with hearing impairment or devices for people with normal hearing to be connected.

[0121] Before entering the tube 3, the cable 4 has a strain relief 2 located on the cable 4 in the ear canal 10. This prevents tension on the eardrum 11 when the cable 4 is inserted. This prevents the risk of damage to the eardrum 11. The strain relief 2 can be designed in the shape of a plug so that it can be inserted into the tube 3 and closes the tube 3. This stabilizes the cable end to the piezo loudspeaker 1 and prevents moisture and earwax from entering the tube 3. Furthermore, the tube 3 is acoustically ineffective.

[0122] The other end of the tube 3 is closed by means of a sleeve 5 (e.g. magnetic contact socket) made of biocompatible and medically safe material, which is implanted. This sleeve 5, which can also be referred to as a socket, contains two magnetic contacts which are connected to the cable 4 and a cable 7 which, for reasons of clarity, is only shown for the behind-the-ear device variant and not for the in-the-ear device variant. The sleeve 5 forms the interface 6 to the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device), such as a hearing aid that can be placed on the ear or in the ear. The counterpart of the interface 6 connects the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device) to the cable 7, so that the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device) can be connected to the cable 7.The in-the-ear device 9 (IDO device) can be easily disconnected and reconnected from the wired piezo loudspeaker 1 at any time, with just a click.

[0123] The tube 3, which is implanted, can be cut to the appropriate length or it is offered as a telescopic tube, which can be flexibly adjusted in its length or it is made of a flexible / bendable material that can be adapted to the shape of the head.

[0124] The cable implant is a unit consisting of: piezo loudspeaker 1 with cable 4, cable 7, a cable strain relief 2, the tube 3 (cable duct) and an implantable sleeve 5 (terminal sleeve) with an interface 6 featuring, for example, magnetic contacts. This unit offers all users the advantage that, after implantation, the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device) can be replaced at any time. This offers the advantage of easy device replacement, so that, for example, the hearing aid can be replaced with a speech or music device or a Bluetooth radio receiver if necessary. In addition, daily handling of the electronic device is extremely simple for the end user. This is because removing, attaching, cleaning, changing batteries or charging the rechargeable battery can be carried out completely autonomously - without touching the wired loudspeaker.

[0125] As an alternative to the interface 6 with magnetic contacts, various types of plug contacts can also be used on the outside, ensuring easy connection of the speaker cable to the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device). Alternatively, the device may have an integrated plug connection that allows it to be connected directly to the interface 6 (without a cable).

[0126] In order to pull the cable 4 into the tube 3, which can be done using a fishing tool for threading out the cable 4, for example, the cable 4 must be open on one side. The open cable 4 can be electrically connected either on the inside to the loudspeaker 1 or on the outside to, for example, a contact plate 12 shown in Fig. 2 (e.g. magnetic contact socket). The connection of the cable ends is preferably recommended with the contact plate 12 by connecting the cable to the contact plate 12 by soft soldering, ultrasonic soldering, clamp connections or plug connections on the outside of the head, as it is more easily accessible from there. After this implantation and installation, the wired loudspeaker 1 forms a self-contained unit which is handled independently of the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device).

[0127] The connection can also be made in this way (soft soldering, ultrasonic soldering, clamp connections or plug connections) inside the tube 3. For this, the loudspeaker cable must be long enough to be pulled completely out of the tube 3. The ends of the cable 4 are connected to each other and pushed into the tube 3. The advantage is that the outer contact plate 12 is already pre-assembled with the connected cable 4. The contact plate 12 is part of the sleeve 5 and is inserted into the sleeve 5 during assembly so that it can be replaced at any time if it becomes worn. The sleeve 5 is part of the implantable tube 3 and is located on the surface of the head. The cable 4 can also be connected to the piezo loudspeaker 1 in the ear canal 10 in the same way, if space permits.To thread the cable 4 through the tube 3, a fine fishing rod (fishing tool) is used, which is pushed through the tube 3 towards the ear canal 10. The rod is made of a very thin material with a hook at the end, which serves to grip the speaker cable in the ear canal 10. The rod is then pulled out with the cable 4 through the tube 3. The counterpart of the contact plate 12 and the connected cable 7 are a single unit that can be separated from the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device). Since it is subject to wear, it can be replaced at any time without stressing the system of the wired speaker 1.

[0128] Fig. 2 shows a sleeve 5. The sleeve 5, which is implanted into the head, consists of two parts: the implantable part 5, which forms the end of the implanted tube 3, and the contact plate 12 (e.g., a magnetic contact socket), which is inserted into the implantable part and to which the cable ends of the piezo loudspeaker 1 are connected. The pluggable contact plate 12 can be replaced at any time in case of contamination or corrosion.

[0129] The cables connected to the contact plate 12 at the connection points are preferably sealed with a special, corrosion-resistant protective varnish. The tube 3 and the sleeve 5 are preferably connected to each other at an angle (fixed) or flexibly (movable).

[0130] The sleeve 5 (head interface) is ideally implanted at a location on the head where the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device), e.g., the hearing aid, can be placed as discreetly or invisibly as possible behind the ear or in the ear. The cable 7 should be as short as possible. If the interface 6 is located directly on the housing of the behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or the in-the-ear device 9 (e.g., on the processor housing), the cable connection is omitted.

[0131] The sleeve 5 (head interface) and the tube 3 can consist of a closed or separable unit.

[0132] For the separate unit, possible connection types between the sleeve 5 and the channel (tube 3) include, in particular, a threaded closure, a click closure, a bayonet closure, or a clamp closure. Fig. 3 shows a sketch of a behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) according to the invention. Of course, such a design would also be conceivable with an in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device) or another electronic device.

[0133] Fig. 4 shows a sleeve 5 in the form of a magnetic contact socket. This has a contact plate 12 in the form of a magnetic contact plate, which is arranged on the sleeve 5.

[0134] Fig. 5 shows a sketch of a cable connection according to the invention with an in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device).

[0135] Fig. 6 shows a diagram of a closure plug 13 according to the invention in conjunction with a behind-the-ear hearing aid (BTE) 8. To dampen or eliminate noise penetrating through the ear canal 10, a closure plug 13 is inserted into the ear canal 10.

[0136] Fig. 7 shows a sketch of an interface 6 according to the invention, to which an audiometer 14 is connected as an electronic device.

[0137] Fig. 8 shows a sketch of an audiometer 14 which is directly connected to the piezo loudspeaker 1.

[0138] Fig. 9 shows a sketch of an audiometer 14 which is connected to the piezo loudspeaker 1 using an earmold 15 which has a magnetic contact 16 for separating the cable connection.

[0139] Fig. 10 shows a sketch of the audiometry method according to the invention, connected to a cable connection according to the invention with a closure plug 13 according to the invention. In this audiometry method according to the invention, the auditory canal 10 is closed by means of the closure plug 13.

[0140] Fig. 11 shows a further diagram of an inventive audiometry method, integrated into a hearing aid, connected to a cable connection according to the invention. This inventive audiometry method utilizes an audiometer 14 integrated into the electronic device, e.g., a hearing aid. Of course, such a design would also be conceivable with an in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device).

[0141] Fig. 12 shows a closure plug 13 according to the invention (closed).

[0142] Fig. 13 shows a closure plug 13 according to the invention with a vent channel 17.

[0143] Fig. 14 shows a sketch of a cable connection according to the invention, passed through the soft head tissue as a behind-the-ear device 8 (H DO device) or in-the-ear device 9 (IDO device). For reasons of clarity, the cable 7 is shown only for the behind-the-ear device variant and not for the in-the-ear device variant. In Fig. 14, the cable connection is passed through the soft head tissue 19 to the auditory canal 10 and thus past the cranial bone. The entire other design corresponds to the description for Fig. 1.

[0144] Fig. 15 shows a sketch of a cable connection according to the invention with a cable probe 20, as a behind-the-ear device 8 (BTE device) or an in-the-ear device 9 (ITE device). The cable probe 20, which can also be called an audio adapter, is preferably a replaceable cable probe 20. For reasons of clarity, the cable 7 is shown only for the behind-the-ear device variant and not for the in-the-ear device variant. The cable probe 20 can be replaced at any time, as the two interfaces, one on the head side and one to the eardrum loudspeaker, are pluggable. The cable connection provided with the cable probe 20 is the most convincing, as it can be implemented quickly and without soldering.

[0145] This cable connection is a cable probe 20 that is inserted into the implanted cable duct. This cable probe 20 is a self-contained cable unit and can be replaced at any time without surgery. The cable probe 20 consists of an external interface on the head (magnetic or plug socket), a connecting cable 21, and a magnetic or plug socket 22 located at the end of the cable probe 20 and extending into the auditory canal 10. The cable probe 20 is preferably attached to the canal, the tube 3, via the magnetic socket / plug socket 5 on the head, which can be equipped with various types of closure. The end of the cable probe 20, which is located in the auditory canal 10, is connected via a plug connection to a plug 23 (e.g., a magnetic contact plug or another mechanical plug (microplug)) of the piezo loudspeaker 1.With this connector, the piezo loudspeaker 1 can be easily connected to the cable probe 20 in the ear canal. This allows the piezo loudspeaker 1 to be replaced at any time without surgery. To prevent moisture or earwax from entering the tube, a seal can be used on both sides of the cable probe 20.

[0146] The time required for installation, replacement of the cable connection, and replacement of the piezo loudspeaker 1 varies greatly depending on the design. With the cable probe 20 inserted into the implanted cable duct, this process is simpler and faster, as it is a modular system.

[0147] Fig. 16 shows a sketch of a cable probe 20 according to the invention with a head interface and a plug connection to the eardrum loudspeaker, according to Fig. 15. The cable probe 20 has an integrated interface on the head and a plug connection, which is formed from a plug socket 22 and a plug 23, to the piezo loudspeaker 1.

[0148] Fig. 17 shows a sketch of a channel guide according to the invention from the head inlet, i.e. a channel inlet 24, e.g. above the auricle, to the channel outlet 25 to the auditory canal 10.

[0149] Fig. 18 shows a sketch of a channel guide according to the invention from the head inlet, i.e. a channel inlet 24, e.g. at the mastoid, to the channel outlet 25 to the auditory canal 10.

[0150] Fig. 19 shows a sketch of a canal guide according to the invention, i.e. a canal inlet 24, for example, at the outer tragus to the canal outlet 25 to the auditory canal 10. Fig. 20 shows another perspective of a sketch of a canal guide according to the invention, i.e. a canal inlet 24, for example, at the tragus to the canal outlet 25 to the auditory canal 10, according to Fig. 19.

[0151] In addition to the canal routings described above, other areas of the head can be chosen where a tube-cable connection between the ear canal and a location on the outer head is possible. This is at the discretion of the implanting physician.

[0152] The implantable channel (cable channel, tube 3) is preferably made of a medically tested and biocompatible material (e.g. metal, titanium or plastic). Its length can preferably be adjusted (e.g. telescopic tube) or is available in different lengths. The head-side end piece of the tube 3 is either implanted in the head as a separate sleeve 5, or the tube 3 and the sleeve 5 are a single unit positioned at different angles to one another, or the tube 3 and the sleeve 5 are variably connected to one another and the angle can be flexibly adjusted. The tube 3 can be rigid or made of a flexible material, for example a titanium mesh. This has the advantage that it can be adapted to the contours of the head when laid in the ear canal. The tube 3 protects the cable 4 running in the head and enables easy replacement of the cable 4 or the piezo loudspeaker 1.

[0153] Fig. 21 shows a sketch of a head interface according to the invention, which uses inductive transmission via two coils, as a behind-the-ear device (BTE device) or in-the-ear device (ITE device). Indirect wireless transmission uses two coils. For reasons of clarity, the cable 7 is only shown for the behind-the-ear device variant and not for the in-the-ear device variant. Here, an external transmitting coil 26 having a magnetic plate and an implanted receiving coil 27 having a magnetic plate are used. The transmission of the signal from the electronic device to the piezo loudspeaker 1 can therefore also take place wirelessly (e.g., via radio, Bluetooth, optically, induction, or capacitively).In particular, two methods are possible: a direct wireless connection from the head interface / device to the eardrum loudspeaker (without any cables) or an indirect wireless connection with a wireless head interface and a cable connection from the head interface to the eardrum loudspeaker.

[0154] With a direct connection, the signal from the electronic device to the piezo loudspeaker 1 has to overcome a longer wireless distance. This requires more transmission energy. With an indirect wireless connection, a very short wireless connection is established which, for example, only has to overcome the scalp. The signal travels the rest of the way via a cable connection through the cable duct to the piezo loudspeaker 1. This type of indirect wireless transmission is possible, for example, with the inductive transmission shown in Fig. 21, in which the signal is transmitted wirelessly from the electronic device via two coils (transmitter coil 26 and receiver coil 27) to the implanted cable probe 20. The signal then travels on to the piezo loudspeaker 1 via the cable probe 20. The scalp is located between the two coils, so that a very short distance is bridged and energy consumption is therefore very low.The receiver coil 27 is implanted beneath the scalp, e.g., above or behind the auricle (mastoid). The signal from the electronic device reaches the connected transmitter coil 26 and is transmitted wirelessly to the receiver coil 27. The transmitter coil 26 can be an external unit that is connected to the electronic device via a cable and can be attached to the surface of the head using a magnet. However, the transmitter coil 26 can also be housed in the housing of the electronic device so that the signal from the electronic device can be sent directly to the receiver coil 27. Both coils are positioned so that they are in close proximity to one another and are attracted to one another, for example by a magnetic connection. The implanted receiver coil 27 is connected to the piezo loudspeaker 1 via an electrical cable connection through the cable duct (tube 3).The cable 4, which extends into the ear canal 10, is connected to the piezo loudspeaker 1 via a magnetic interface or other mechanical connector. The advantage of the indirect wireless connection is that the implanted cable duct and the implanted receiver coil 27 are not visible from the outside of the head. Furthermore, the cable duct with the socket does not have to pass through the outer scalp. Handling is also simple and safe for the user.

[0155] All features presented in the description, the following claims and the drawings may be essential to the invention both individually and in any combination with one another.

[0156] Reference number list

[0157] 1 piezo speaker / eardrum speaker

[0158] 2 Strain relief

[0159] 3 tubes

[0160] 4 cables

[0161] 5 Sleeve / socket

[0162] 6 Interface / Connector

[0163] 7 cables

[0164] 8 Behind the Ear Device (BTE Device)

[0165] 9 In the ear device (ITE device)

[0166] 10 Ear canal

[0167] 11 eardrum

[0168] 12 Contact plate

[0169] 13 sealing plugs

[0170] 14 audiometers

[0171] 15 Otoplasty

[0172] 16 Magnetic contact

[0173] 17 Vent channel

[0174] 18 skull bones

[0175] 19 Soft tissue

[0176] 20 cable probe

[0177] 21 connecting cables

[0178] 22 socket

[0179] 23 plugs

[0180] 24 Canal entry

[0181] 25 Channel outlet

[0182] 26 Transmitting coil

[0183] 27 Receiver coil

Claims

Patent claims 1 . A cable connection of an electronic device, in particular a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, an audiometer or another electroacoustic system, wherein the electronic device has a loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker (1), and a cable (4) ending at the loudspeaker, characterized in that the cable connection has an interface (6) through which a cable (4) running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device.by means of which a cable (4) running from the interface (6) to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface (6) for at least partially receiving the cable (4) running to the loudspeaker.

2. Cable connection according to claim 1, characterized in that the channel is a channel that can be implanted into a living being or that the channel can be implanted into the living being at least partially outside the auditory canal (10) of the living being.

3. Cable connection according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the channel is a tube (3) and / or that a channel probe (20) is arranged in the channel.

4. Cable connection according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the interface (6) has two magnetic contacts, one magnetic contact being connected to the cable (4) and the other magnetic contact being connected to the cable (7).

5. Cable connection according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the interface (6) has two plug contacts, one plug contact being connected to the cable (4) and the other plug contact being connected to the cable (7), or the interface (6) has a plug contact and a coupling, the plug contact being connected to the cable (4) and the coupling being connected to the cable (7), or the coupling being connected to the cable (4) and the plug contact being connected to the cable (7).

6. Cable connection according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the interface (6) has a transmitting coil (26) and a receiving coil (27) as contacts, wherein the receiving coil (27) is connected to the cable (4) and / or the transmitting coil (26) is connected to the cable (7).

7. Cable connection according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the magnetic contact connected to the cable (4) and / or the plug contact connected to the cable (4) and / or the coupling connected to the cable (4) and / or the receiver coil (27) connected to the cable (4) is a contact that can be implanted in a living being.

8. Electronic device, - with a loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker (1 ), and - with a cable connection, characterized in that the cable connection can be at least partially implanted into a living being.

9. Electronic device according to claim 8, characterized in that that the cable connection can be implanted into the living being at least partially outside the auditory canal (10) of the living being.

10. Electronic device according to claim 8 or claim 9, characterized in that the loudspeaker can be arranged on a eardrum (11) of the living being.

11. Electronic device according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that the electronic device is a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, an audiometer or another electroacoustic system.

12. Electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7.

13. Method for the reversible production of a cable connection of an electronic device, in particular a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, an audiometer or another electroacoustic system, wherein the electronic device has a loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker (1), and a cable ending at the loudspeaker, characterized in that the cable connection has an interface (6) through which a cable (4) running from the interface to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device.by means of which a cable (4) running from the interface (6) to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device, wherein the interface (6) is adapted to at least partially accommodate the cable (4) running to the loudspeaker. Channel and during the connection of the cable (4) to the cable (7) or the separation of the cable (4) from the cable (7), the cable connection and / or the channel is at least partially implanted in a living being.

14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that the cable connection and / or the channel is implanted into the living being at least partially outside the auditory canal (10) of the living being.

15. Method according to claim 13 or claim 14, characterized in that the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, and / or the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12.

16. A method for changing different devices, wherein a device is in particular a hearing aid, a signal processor, a speech or music device, a radio receiver, an audiometer or another electroacoustic system, wherein the electronic device has a cable connection, characterized in that a device has a cable (4) and a cable (7) which are connected to one another by an interface (6) of the cable connection, wherein a channel is connected to the interface (6) to at least partially accommodate the cable (4) running to the loudspeaker, and in order to change to another device, the cable (7) is separated from the cable (4) in order to connect a cable (7) of the other device to the remaining cable (4), or in that a device has a cable (4) which is connected to the device by an interface (6) of the cable connection,wherein a channel is connected to the interface (6) to at least partially accommodate the cable (4) running to the loudspeaker, and to change to another device, the device to be removed is separated from the cable (4) in order to connect the other device to the remaining cable (4).

17. Method according to claim 16, characterized in that the cable connection and / or the channel is at least partially implanted in a living being.

18. Method according to claim 16 or claim 17, characterized in that the cable connection and / or the channel is implanted into the living being at least partially outside the auditory canal (10) of the living being.

19. Method according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, and / or the method is a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15.

20. A closure plug (13) for an ear of a living being, characterized in that the closure plug (13) is made in the form of a custom-made earmold or from another flexible instant variant.

21. Closure plug (13) according to claim 20, characterized in that the closure plug (13) is completely closed or has at least one vent channel (17).

22. Closure plug (13) according to claim 20 or claim 21, characterized in that at least one vent channel (17) is variably adjustable.

23. A method for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device, characterized in that an electronic device, in particular a hearing aid, is used which has a loudspeaker, in particular a piezo loudspeaker (1 ), which is arranged directly on the eardrum (11 ) for the direct transmission of signals sent from the electronic device to an eardrum (11 ) of an ear of a living being, wherein a closure plug (13) is used which at least partially prevents signals entering the ear naturally from reaching the eardrum (11 ) directly.

24. Method according to claim 23, characterized in that a cable connection is used, wherein the cable connection has a cable (4) which ends at the loudspeaker, and the cable connection has an interface (6) by means of which the cable (4) running from the interface (6) to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device, or by means of which the cable (4) running from the interface (6) to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface (6) for at least partially receiving the cable (4) running to the loudspeaker.

25. Method according to claim 23 or claim 24, characterized in that the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, with the method a method for reversibly producing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15 is carried out, with the method a method for Changing different devices is carried out according to one of claims 16 to 19 and / or the closure plug (13) is a closure plug (13) according to one of claims 20 to 22.

26. A method for protecting the hearing of a living being, characterized in that an electronic device is used which is a signal processor and has a microphone for detecting signals and a loudspeaker, wherein the loudspeaker is arranged on an eardrum (11) of an ear of the living being to be protected, and the microphone transmits the detected signals at least partially to the loudspeaker, so that signals reach the eardrum (11) on the one hand by being transmitted by the signal processor and on the other hand naturally by entering the ear, wherein the transmission of the signals by the signal processor takes place with a time delay, whereby a resulting phase shift leads to an extinction or at least to a reduction of the signals transmitted by the signal processor.

27. Method according to claim 26, characterized in that the signal processor delays the forwarding with a phase shift of 180°.

28. A method according to claim 26 or claim 27, characterized in that the signal processor only forwards low-frequency signals and / or does not forward frequencies for speech.

29. Method according to one of claims 26 to 28, characterized in that that the signal processor forwards all signals as long as no speech frequencies are detected and as soon as speech frequencies are detected, only signals that do not concern the speech frequencies are forwarded.

30. Method according to one of claims 26 to 29, characterized in that a cable connection is used, wherein the cable connection has a cable (4) which ends at the loudspeaker, and the cable connection has an interface (6) through which the cable (4) running from the interface (6) to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device, or the cable (4) running from the interface (6) to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface (6) for at least partially receiving the cable (4) running to the loudspeaker.

31. Method according to one of claims 26 to 30, characterized in that the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, with the method a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15 is carried out and / or with the method a method for changing different devices according to one of claims 16 to 19 is carried out.

32. Audiometry method for measuring hearing performance and / or for diagnosing diseased hearing organs of a living being, characterized in that a loudspeaker is used which is arranged on a eardrum (11) of an ear of the living being to be measured.

33. Method according to claim 32, characterized in that the audiometry method is used for tone audiometry, speech audiometry in quiet and / or speech audiometry in noise.

34. Method according to claim 32 or claim 33, characterized in that before or at least temporarily during the audiometry method, an auditory canal (10) leading to the eardrum (11) is closed by a closure, in particular a closure plug (13).

35. Method according to one of claims 32 to 34, characterized in that an electronic device and / or a cable connection are used, wherein the cable connection has a cable (4) which ends at the loudspeaker, and the cable connection has an interface (6) by means of which the cable (4) running from the interface (6) to the loudspeaker can be separated from a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or from the electronic device, or by means of which the cable (4) running from the interface (6) to the loudspeaker can be connected to a cable (7) running from the interface (6) not to the loudspeaker and / or to the electronic device, wherein a channel is connected to the interface (6) for at least partially receiving the cable (4) running to the loudspeaker.

36. Method according to one of claims 32 to 35, characterized in that at least some of the values ​​measured during the audiometry method form a calculation basis for the customer-specific adjustment of a hearing aid.

37. Method according to one of claims 32 to 36, characterized in that the cable connection is a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the electronic device is an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, the method is used to carry out a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15, the method is used to carry out a method for changing different devices according to one of claims 16 to 19 and / or the closure is a closure plug (13) according to one of claims 20 to 22.

38. Audio adapter, characterized in that the audio adapter has a housing having a first end and a second end, wherein a socket, a plug, a coil or a contact plate is arranged at the first end for the direct or indirect connection of an electronic device and a socket, a plug, a coil or a contact plate is arranged at the second end for the direct or indirect connection of a loudspeaker.

39. Audio adapter according to claim 38, characterized in that the audio adapter is at least partially implantable into a living being.

40. Audio adapter according to claim 38 or claim 39, characterized in that the audio adapter has a cable connection according to one of claims 1 to 7, the audio adapter is part of an electronic device according to one of claims 8 to 12, the audio adapter can be used in a method for reversibly establishing a cable connection of an electronic device according to one of claims 13 to 15, the audio adapter can be used in a method for changing different devices according to one of claims 16 to 19, the audio adapter can be used in a method for increasing the acoustic effect of an electronic device according to a of claims 23 to 25, the audio adapter can be used in a method for protecting the hearing of a living being, according to one of claims 26 to 31, and / or the audio adapter can be used in an audiometry method for measuring hearing performance and / or for diagnosing diseased hearing organs of a living being, according to one of claims 32 to 37.

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