Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

This information processing device comprises: an acquisition unit that acquires a first test result from a first hearing test performed using a first tone source including a plurality of test tones, and a second test result from a second hearing test performed using a second tone source that is different from the first tone source and includes a plurality of test tones; and a display control unit that performs processing for displaying the first test result and the second test result in a comparable manner. At least one of the first tone source and the second tone source includes a plurality of test tones selected so that a feature related to the result of a hearing test under predetermined standards satisfies a predetermined relationship with a feature related to the result of a hearing test under the predetermined standards using the other tone source.

Description

Information processing device, information processing method, and program

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

[0002] Hearing tests are sometimes performed on patients and / or customers (hereinafter also referred to as subjects) who have difficulty hearing. Known hearing tests include pure-tone audiometry and speech audiometry. Pure-tone audiometry measures how quiet a sound (test sound) a subject can hear. Speech audiometry measures how accurately a subject can hear speech sounds (test sounds). For example, a sound source containing multiple test sounds is used in a hearing test.

[0003] There are several hearing test methods with different test times. For example, there are hearing test methods that take a long time but provide detailed results, and test methods that provide limited results but are quick. There is a trade-off between the amount of information in the test results and the test time. Generally, test methods with short test times are used for purposes such as screening, and test methods with long test times are used for the purpose of differentiating diseases or disorders.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-202352

[0005] To effectively utilize test results, it is desirable to be able to compare the results of different test methods. For example, it is desirable to be able to compare the results of a hearing test conducted using a test method that requires a short test time with the results of a hearing test conducted using a test method that requires a long test time. However, with conventional hearing tests, it is not possible to directly compare the results of different test methods.

[0006] For example, consider a subject who has been undergoing testing once a year for 10 years using a test method with a short testing time. Then, suppose the subject experiences hearing difficulties and undergoes testing using a test method with a long testing time. Changes in test results can provide important information for understanding the subject's symptoms. However, with conventional hearing tests, it is not possible to directly compare the test results from the short test method over 10 years with the test results from the long test method.

[0007] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes an information processing device, an information processing method, and a program that enable effective use of test results.

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, an information processing device of one embodiment according to the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires a first test result from a first hearing test conducted using a first sound source consisting of a plurality of test sounds, and a second test result from a second hearing test conducted using a second sound source different from the first sound source and consisting of a plurality of test sounds, and a display control unit that performs processing to display the first test result and the second test result in a comparable manner, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that characteristics related to the result of the hearing test under a predetermined standard satisfy a predetermined relationship with characteristics related to the result of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source.

[0009] 7 is a diagram showing an example of a word table for a Japanese speech audiometry test. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a word table for a US speech audiometry test. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a sentence list for a US speech audiometry test. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of test results for a speech audiometry test. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of test results for a speech-in-noise audiometry test. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of measurement results when adaptive processing is used for a speech-in-noise audiometry test. FIG. 13 is a graph showing test results obtained from the measurement results shown in FIG. 6. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of test results for a speech-in-noise audiometry test using different sound sources. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of test results for different speech-in-noise audiometry tests. FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the solving means of the present embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of an information processing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining test modes. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of an information processing system according to Example 1. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a sound source of the present embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a sound source of the present embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing another example of a sound source of the present embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing another example of a sound source of the present embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device that executes sound source generation processing according to a first example. FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating sound source generation processing (first example) according to Example 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device that executes sound source generation processing according to a second example. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating sound source generation processing (second example) according to Example 1. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of test results of a hearing test in a first mode. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of test results of a hearing test in a first mode. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating first mode test processing according to Example 1. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of results of a hearing test in a second mode. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating second mode test processing (first example) according to Example 1. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of results of a hearing test in the second mode. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating second mode test processing (second example) according to Example 1. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating another example of results of a hearing test in the second mode. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating second mode test processing (third example) according to Example 1.1 is a diagram showing an example of display of test results. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of display of test results. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing another example of display of test results. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing another example of display of test results. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing test result display processing (first example) according to Example 1. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing test result display processing (second example) according to Example 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing system according to Example 2. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing test processing according to Example 2. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing test result display processing according to Example 2. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example in which test results in a first mode and test results in a second mode are displayed so as to be comparable. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining first mode test processing according to Example 3. FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining first mode test processing according to Example 3. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing first mode test processing according to Example 3. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to a first modified example. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of display which makes it possible to compare test results in a first mode and test results in a second mode. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing another example of display which makes it possible to compare test results in a first mode and test results in a second mode. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of a display that allows the first mode test results and the second mode test results to be compared.

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0011] Additionally, in this description / specification, the phrase "at least one of" following a list of elements is understood to mean that the listed elements are optional. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" means "(A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C)." "At least one of A, B, or C" and "at least one of A, B, and / or C" are similar to "at least one of A, B, and C." Here, A, B, and C are all arbitrary expressions (e.g., words, phrases, clauses, terms, or items).

[0012] In addition, in this specification and drawings, multiple components having substantially the same functional configuration may be distinguished by adding different numbers or letters to the same reference numeral. For example, multiple components having substantially the same functional configuration may be referred to as the information processing device 10 as needed. １ , 10 ２ , 10 ３ , 10 ４ , and 10 ５ However, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between multiple components having substantially the same functional configuration, only the same reference numerals are used. For example, the information processing device 10 １ , 10 ２ , 10 ３ , 10 ４ , and 10 ５ When there is no need to particularly distinguish between them, they will be simply referred to as information processing devices 10.

[0013] The present disclosure will be described in the following order: 1. Overview of the present disclosure 1-1. Regarding hearing tests 1-2. Overview of the problem 1-3. Overview of the solution 2. Configuration of information processing system 2-1. Configuration of information processing device 3. Example 1 3-1. Test mode 3-2. Example of functional configuration of information processing system according to Example 1 3-3. Characteristics of sound source 3-4. Sound source generation processing 3-5. First mode test processing 3-6. Second mode test processing 3-7. Test result display processing 4. Example 2 4-1. Example of functional configuration of information processing system according to Example 2 4-2. Test processing 4-3. Test result display processing 5. Example 3 5-1. First mode test processing 6. Modified examples 6-1. Modified example related to test implementation 6-2. Modified example related to display of test results 6-3. Modified example related to sound source 6-4. Modifications related to hearing tests 6-5. Modifications related to sound source generation processing 6-6. Other modifications 7. Conclusion

[0014] <<1. Overview of the Present Disclosure>> First, an overview of the present disclosure will be described. In the following description, a person who undergoes a hearing test (e.g., a patient and / or a customer) may be referred to as a test subject. Test subjects are not limited to patients and customers. Test subjects may also be people with normal hearing.

[0015] <1-1. About hearing tests> Hearing tests may be conducted on subjects who complain of hearing difficulties. Known hearing tests include pure-tone audiometry and speech audiometry. Pure-tone audiometry measures how quiet a sound a subject can hear. Speech audiometry measures how accurately a subject can hear speech sounds. The results of pure-tone audiometry are closely related to the degree of damage to the outer hair cells, while the results of speech audiometry are closely related to the degree of damage to the inner hair cells and beyond.

[0016] Speech audiometry tests are broadly divided into speech recognition threshold tests and speech discrimination tests. Speech recognition threshold tests are tests that use speech sounds to measure the hearing threshold. Speech discrimination tests are tests that measure how accurately a test subject can hear speech sounds at a level above the hearing threshold. Speech discrimination tests are sometimes called speech recognition tests. In the following explanation, speech audiometry is considered to be a general term for tests that measure how accurately a test subject can hear speech sounds at a level above the hearing threshold.

[0017] As mentioned above, speech audiometry results are strongly related to the degree of impairment, primarily at the inner hair cell level and beyond. Being able to hear soft sounds does not necessarily mean that speech can be heard reliably. On the other hand, difficulty hearing soft sounds does not necessarily mean that speech hearing is also impaired. For subjects who complain of hearing difficulties, both pure-tone audiometry and speech audiometry are important tests. For example, to determine the effectiveness of hearing aids prior to their use, speech audiometry results are used in addition to pure-tone audiometry results. In speech audiometry tests using the Japanese 57-S word list, if a patient's best speech intelligibility is 60% or higher, everyday conversation is considered possible with the use of hearing aids.

[0018] It should be noted that hearing tests may be conducted at facilities / institutions other than medical institutions (e.g., hearing aid stores or universities / research institutes). In such cases, the hearing test may be referred to as a hearing measurement or a hearing test. However, in this embodiment, both hearing measurements and hearing tests are referred to as a hearing test.

[0019] Speech audiometry is typically performed in a quiet environment. However, it is sometimes performed by intentionally adding noise to the test sounds. This is called a speech-in-noise test. A speech-in-noise test combines speech and noise to measure how accurately speech can be heard in noise. The level ratio between speech and noise is called the signal-to-noise ratio. For example, an SNR of +10 dB means that the speech intensity level is 10 dB greater than the noise intensity level. The intensity level is often measured using sound pressure level. Speech-in-noise audiometry tests include those that calculate the accuracy rate at a specified SNR, those that calculate the SRT-50, and those that calculate a unique score at a specified SNR. SRT stands for Speech Recognition Threshold. Here, SRT-50 refers to the SNR at which the accuracy rate is 50%. It is sometimes referred to as SNR-50, which has the same meaning as SRT-50 in noise. SNR stands for Signal-Noise Ratio. In the following, the accuracy rate, SRT-50, SNR-50, or unique score may be collectively referred to as the score.

[0020] Below, we will explain conventional speech audiometry tests in Japan and the United States.

[0021] Figure 1 shows an example of a word list for a Japanese speech audiometry test. Specifically, Figure 1 shows the 57-S word list used in Japanese speech audiometry tests. The actual 57-S word list contains words written in Japanese katakana. However, Figure 1 shows the katakana words converted into romanized characters. The romanized characters are written using the Hepburn romanization system, which is the most widely used system in Japan.

[0022] Here, a word list is a list of words used in the test. During the test, audio of this word list being read aloud is used. The ease of hearing each word varies depending on the pronunciation and / or voice quality of the person reading the word list. Therefore, by using a consistent audio source recorded by reading the word list aloud, rather than just the word list, it becomes possible to compare test results between facilities. In Japan, a CD (Compact Disc) containing the audio source of the 57-S word list is available from the Japan Audiological Society. Some audiometers have a built-in audio source identical to this CD.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the 57-S word table consists of five lists, from List 1 to List 5. Each list consists of 50 meaningless monosyllabic words (also simply called monosyllables). The audio recording of one list being read aloud is approximately four minutes long. Each list contains the same monosyllables, but in a different order. If the same list is used repeatedly with the same subject, there is a risk that the subject will memorize the order of the words. To prevent this, five lists are provided.

[0024] FIG. 2 shows an example of a word list for a speech audiometry test in the United States. Specifically, FIG. 2 shows the word list for the NU-6 (Northwestern University Auditory Test No. 6), a word recognition test. Each list consists of 50 words. The audio recording of one list being read aloud is approximately 4 minutes and 20 seconds long. There are four lists in total. Each list contains different words.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a sentence list for a US speech audiometry test. Specifically, FIG. 3 shows a sentence list for the AzBio sentence test, which is one of the sentence recognition tests. One list consists of 20 sentences. The audio source reading one list is approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds long. There are 15 lists in total. Each list contains different sentences.

[0026] Thus, speech audiometry tests use monosyllables, words (monosyllabic / polysyllabic words), or sentences. It is said that words tend to be more influenced by central top-down processing than monosyllables, and sentences more than words. In other words, even if you miss a few things, you can still make up for them by using background knowledge, which increases the chances of you being able to hear them. Monosyllables or words are often used when you want to conduct a test that minimizes the influence of top-down processing, and sentences are often used when you want to conduct a test that includes the influence of top-down processing.

[0027] In a speech audiometry test using the 57-S word list, the subject is asked to listen to the sounds from the word list at three or four different sound intensities, with the focus being on an intensity that is 20 to 40 dB higher than the average hearing level in a pure tone audiometry test or the speech intelligibility threshold. The information processing device calculates the accuracy rate for each sound intensity. The accuracy rate with the highest accuracy rate is called the maximum speech intelligibility.

[0028] 4 shows an example of the results of a speech audiometry test. Subject A had a 100% accuracy rate at a sound intensity equivalent to 65 dB HL, a 95% accuracy rate at a sound intensity equivalent to 55 dB HL, a 70% accuracy rate at 45 dB HL, and a 30% accuracy rate at 35 dB HL. Subject A's maximum speech intelligibility was 100%. The sound intensity at this time could be said to be equivalent to 65 dB HL. dB HL is a unit of hearing level, and is a value based on the hearing threshold of a young person with normal hearing.

[0029] Subject B's accuracy rate was 65% when the sound intensity was equivalent to 80 dBHL, 75% when the sound intensity was equivalent to 65 dBHL, 30% when the sound intensity was 50 dBHL, and 0% when the sound intensity was 35 dBHL. Subject B's highest speech intelligibility was 75%, which can be said to correspond to the sound intensity of 65 dBHL. As can be seen from the test results for Subject B, the higher the sound intensity, the higher the accuracy rate is not necessarily.

[0030] In the example of Figure 4, the test results at four sound intensities allow visual understanding of the change in accuracy rate for each sound intensity. On the other hand, the test tends to take longer. For example, if the results of subject A in Figure 4 are obtained using the 57-S word list, the test takes about 16 minutes, or four times the normal time, because it is performed at four sound intensities. If the speech audiometry test is performed separately for each ear, the test takes even longer, at about 32 minutes, twice as long.

[0031] In speech hearing tests, the subject's level of concentration has a significant impact on the test results. As the test time increases, it tends to become more difficult to maintain concentration. A decrease in concentration leads to a decrease in the accuracy rate. If the accuracy rate decreases due to a decrease in concentration, the test results will not accurately represent how accurately the subject can hear speech sounds (i.e., the subject's speech hearing ability). For this reason, if the test time is long, it will be necessary to take breaks during the test to maintain concentration. In this case, the time required for the test (total time including breaks) will become even longer. Many people with hearing problems are elderly. For this reason, there is a strong demand for shorter test times.

[0032] Figure 5 shows an example of the test results of a speech-in-noise audiometry test. For example, for a speech-in-noise audiometry test using the 57-S word table, a sound source CD using speech-weighted noise as the noise is available from the Japan Audiological Society. This sound source CD contains three sound sources with SNRs of +10 dB, +5 dB, and 0 dB. The speech intensity during the test is set to the average hearing level +30 dB when not wearing a hearing aid and 60 dB HL when wearing a hearing aid. In the example shown in Figure 5, the accuracy rate is 100% when the SNR is +10 dB, 90% when the SNR is +5 dB, and 25% when the SNR is 0 dB. The graph also shows that SRT-50 is approximately +2 dB. Testing three SNRs takes approximately 12 minutes, or three-quarters of the time.

[0033] In the United States, for example, AUDiTEC, a US company, sells a sound source that combines NU-6 with multi-talker noise (multi-talker bubble) as noise. Multi-talker noise is noise caused by multiple people talking simultaneously. For example, if the sound pressure level of the speech is 70 dB SPL and the S / N ratio is set to four levels (+10 dB, +5 dB, 0 dB, and -5 dB), the test time is four times the usual 4 minutes and 20 seconds, or approximately 17 minutes and 20 seconds.

[0034] Thus, speech audiometry tests in noise use speech noise, multi-talker noise, and even white noise. It is said that multi-talker noise, whose sound pressure level and timbre change over time, makes speech more difficult to hear than steady noise like white noise or speech noise. Furthermore, multi-talker noise is considered to be closer to the noise encountered in everyday life.

[0035] FIG. 6 shows an example of measurement results when adaptive processing is used in a speech audiometry test in noise. In tests such as the Japanese 57-S or the American NU-6, the test proceeds within a single list regardless of whether the subject answers correctly or incorrectly. The score is calculated using the entire list. In contrast, in a test method using adaptive processing, the test progress changes depending on whether the subject answers correctly or incorrectly, even within a single list. The score is calculated using only a portion of a single list. Adaptive testing can be expected to shorten the test time.

[0036] In the United States, one of the sentence recognition tests that uses adaptive processing is the Hearing In Noise Test (HINT), which is also available in Japanese.

[0037] In HINT, sentences and noise are presented simultaneously to determine the signal-to-noise ratio (SRT-50) at which the accuracy rate for hearing the sentence is 50%. In HINT, a sentence is presented to the test subject. The sound pressure level of the next sentence is then adjusted depending on whether the test subject answers correctly. If the test subject answers incorrectly, the sound pressure level of the next sentence increases; if the test subject answers correctly, the sound pressure level of the next sentence decreases. Because the sound pressure level of the noise is fixed, increasing the sound pressure level of the sentence increases the signal-to-noise ratio, making it easier to hear. Conversely, decreasing the sound pressure level of the sentence decreases the signal-to-noise ratio, making it harder to hear. In HINT, one list consists of 10 sentences. The audio source for reading one list is approximately two minutes long. Since HINT completes the test with one list, the test time is approximately two minutes. The noise is stationary noise with the same average spectrum as the sentence.

[0038] Figure 6 shows how the S / N ratio changed depending on the test subject's answers. In this example, the first sentence was answered correctly, so the sound pressure level of the sentence was lowered by 4 dB (lowering the S / N ratio by 4 dB), and the second sentence was answered incorrectly, so the sound pressure level of the sentence was raised by 4 dB (raising the S / N ratio by 4 dB). By repeating this process, the S / N ratio settled at approximately -1 dB. This is the test result. This can be interpreted as the test subject hearing half of the sentence in an environment where the sound pressure level of the sentence was 1 dB lower than the sound pressure level of the noise.

[0039] The test method using adaptive processing, as illustrated in Figure 6, requires approximately two minutes of testing time. Using adaptive processing can shorten the testing time compared to not using adaptive processing. However, the amount of information obtained is limited. In the example of Figure 6, the sound pressure level for each sentence is displayed in chronological order, resulting in a line graph. However, the only information obtained as a test result is that the S / N ratio required for a 50% accuracy rate is -1 dB. Figure 7 is a graph showing the test results obtained from the measurement results shown in Figure 6. Comparing the graph of Figure 7 with the graph of Figure 5, it is clear that the difference in information volume is significant. For example, in the example of Figure 5, it can be seen that a S / N ratio of +10 dB would result in a 100% accuracy rate. However, in the example of Figure 7, it is unclear to what extent the accuracy rate would increase with a better S / N ratio.

[0040] 6, the inspection time is shorter but the amount of information obtained is less than when the adaptive processing is not used. Note that the method of shortening the inspection time but obtaining less information is not limited to the method of using adaptive processing.

[0041] Describe the different aspects of speech audiometry.

[0042] As explained above, even when the same word list is used, the ease of listening to each individual speech sound varies depending on the pronunciation and voice quality of the person reading the word list. Therefore, unless the same audio recordings of the word list are used across facilities, the numerical values ​​of the test results will vary between facilities. In other words, if tests are conducted using audio sources read by different people, the numerical results cannot be directly compared. For example, audio read by an announcer tends to be easier to listen to than audio read by an average person. Therefore, test results (e.g., average test results) can vary significantly depending on the audio source. For example, when a speech audiometry test in noise is conducted using an audio source read by an average person, the SRT-50 may have an S / N ratio of +1 dB, whereas when a speech audiometry test in noise is conducted using an audio source read by an announcer, the SRT-50 may have an S / N ratio of -1 dB.

[0043] In speech audiometry tests in noise, noise is used as the sound source for the test. The type of noise used affects the numerical values ​​of the test results. As already explained, non-stationary noise tends to be harder to hear than stationary noise. For example, SRT-50 (the average value of the test results) may result in an S / N ratio of -2 dB in the case of stationary noise, and an S / N ratio of +2 dB in the case of non-stationary noise.

[0044] FIG. 8 shows an example of the test results of a speech audiometry test in noise using different sound sources. In the example of FIG. 8, the test was conducted on the same subject using sound source A and sound source B. For example, even with the same word list, differences tend to occur between a sound source read by an announcer and a sound source read by an ordinary person, as seen in sound source A and sound source B. For example, even when the speech sound source is from the same person, differences tend to occur between sound source A and sound source B when the added noise is stationary noise such as speech noise and non-stationary noise such as multi-talker noise. In the example of FIG. 8, the SRT-50 when sound source A is used is −2 dB, and the SRT-50 when sound source B is used is +1 dB. In particular, for people with hearing loss, the impact on hearing ability varies depending on the location of the impairment, and therefore the impact on the test results also varies.

[0045] Thus, the numerical results of testing methods using different sound sources cannot be directly compared.

[0046] FIG. 9 shows examples of test results of different speech audiometry tests in noise. Test method A is a test method that requires a long test time but obtains detailed results. Test method B is a test method that provides limited results but requires a short test time. Conventional speech audiometry tests have been developed separately, and therefore use different sound sources. In FIG. 9 , Test method A is, for example, NU-6 in noise, and Test method B is, for example, HINT. In conventional methods, Test methods A and B generally use different sound sources. The test results of Test method A show that the SRT-50 is approximately -2 dB and that the accuracy rate is 100% when the S / N ratio is +3 dB. However, when Test method A is used, the test is performed for five different S / N ratios, requiring a long test time. On the other hand, the test results of Test method B only show that the SRT-50 is +1 dB. However, when Test method B is used, the test can be completed in a short test time. The numerical results of Test Method A and Test Method B cannot be directly compared because they use different sound sources. In other words, it is not appropriate to plot the results of Test Method A and Test Method B on the same graph, as in Figure 9.

[0047] <1-2. Overview of the Issues> By performing speech audiometry tests at multiple sound pressure levels and / or multiple S / N ratios, detailed information can be obtained about how accurately the subject can hear speech sounds. However, there is a problem in that the time required for the test increases. When the test time increases, the following two issues arise.

[0048] First, it becomes difficult for test subjects to maintain their concentration, which raises concerns about the validity of the test results. To maintain concentration, measures such as taking breaks or other mental changes during the test are sometimes taken. In this case, the total time required for the test becomes even longer.

[0049] Second, it reduces the number of patients that can be tested in a given time frame, which is important in facilities that need to test many patients (e.g., hospitals, hearing aid stores, research facilities, or specialized testing centers).

[0050] There is a trade-off between the amount of information in test results and the test time. Until now, for purposes such as screening, test methods with short test times have been used, although the results obtained are limited, while for the purpose of differentiating diseases or disorders, test methods that take longer to test but provide detailed results have been used. However, there are issues with this current practice.

[0051] With conventional speech audiometry, it is not possible to directly compare the results of different testing methods. For example, suppose a patient has been undergoing health checkups once a year for 10 years using Test Method B, which takes less time to test. Then, suppose this patient experiences hearing problems and visits a medical institution to be tested using Test Method A, which takes longer. Changes in test results can provide important information for understanding the patient's condition. However, the results of Test Method B over the past 10 years cannot be directly compared with those of Test Method A.

[0052] The inability to compare hearing test results obtained using different testing methods is problematic in terms of the effective use of test results. For example, the inability to directly compare the results of a test method that takes a long time but provides detailed results with those of a test method that is quick but has limited results is a major loss for test subjects in terms of managing their own health. Furthermore, it is a major loss from the perspective of the efficiency of medical professionals providing medical care and the containment of ever-increasing medical costs.

[0053] Therefore, this embodiment makes it possible to compare the results of hearing tests performed using different test methods. For example, this embodiment makes it possible to directly compare the results of a test method that takes a long time to test but provides detailed results with the results of a test method that has a short test time but provides limited results. This makes it possible to effectively utilize past test results in the present. As a result, it is also possible to reduce the total test time per subject over their lifetime.

[0054] The solution of this embodiment will be outlined below.

[0055] <1-3. Overview of Solution> FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the solution of this embodiment.

[0056] The information processing device of this embodiment is a device that performs processing to make it possible to compare the results of hearing tests performed using different test methods.

[0057] For example, the information processing device acquires the results of a hearing test administered to user U1. User U1 is a subject who will undergo the hearing test of this embodiment. The information processing device acquires, as the results of the hearing test, a first test result from a first hearing test and a second test result from a second hearing test. The first hearing test is a hearing test performed using a test method that takes a long time to perform but obtains detailed results. The second hearing test is a hearing test performed using a test method that has limited results but requires a short test time. The test method for the first hearing test is not limited to a method similar to NU-6 in noise, and may be another method. The test method for the second hearing test is not limited to a method similar to HINT, and may be another method.

[0058] The first hearing test is performed using a first mode sound source, and the second hearing test is performed using a second mode sound source different from the first mode sound source. The first mode sound source and the second mode sound source each consist of a plurality of test sounds. In the example of Fig. 10, a plurality of sound sources, from the first sound source to the Nth sound source, are shown as the second mode sound sources, where N is an arbitrary integer.

[0059] Here, the test sound may be, for example, the sound of a word included in a word list being read out loud. For example, the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source may each be composed of the sound of a plurality of words included in a word list being read out loud. Furthermore, the test sound may be, for example, the sound of a sentence included in a sentence list being read out loud. For example, the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source may each be composed of the sound of a plurality of sentences included in a sentence list being read out loud. Note that the test sound is not limited to the sound of a word or a sentence being read out loud. The test sound may also be the sound of a phrase or a clause being read out loud. Furthermore, the test sound is not limited to a speech sound.

[0060] As described above, the second mode sound source is different from the first mode sound source. For example, the total playback time of the second mode sound source is shorter than the total playback time of the first mode sound source. The second mode sound source may be composed of a smaller number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that constitute the first mode sound source. In other words, the first mode sound source may be composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that constitute the second mode sound source. In the example of FIG. 10 , each of the multiple second mode sound sources is a partial sound source of the first mode sound source. In other words, in the example of FIG. 10 , the multiple test sounds that constitute the second mode sound source are part of the multiple test sounds that constitute the first mode sound source. In the example of FIG. 10 , the first mode sound source is composed of these multiple second mode sound sources.

[0061] In this embodiment, at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected based on characteristics related to the hearing test results of the other sound source so that the first test result and the second test result can be compared. For example, at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that the accuracy rate of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with the accuracy rate of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion using the other sound source. The accuracy rate of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion may be, for example, the average accuracy rate when a plurality of subjects (e.g., normal hearing subjects) perform the hearing test under a predetermined noise environment. In this case, the normal hearing subjects may be young people (e.g., teenagers and / or young people in their twenties). Of course, the subjects may also include normal hearing subjects other than those in their teens and twenties.

[0062] For example, the multiple test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may be selected so that the difference between the accuracy rate of a hearing test using the first mode sound source under a predetermined criterion and the accuracy rate of a hearing test using the second mode sound source under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) is within a predetermined threshold. Here, the multiple test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may be selected from the multiple test sounds constituting the first mode sound source. The number of first mode sound sources to be selected as test sound candidates is not limited to one, and may be multiple. That is, the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may be selected from the test sounds of multiple first mode sound sources. Here, the second mode sound source may include test sounds other than the test sounds constituting the first mode sound source. Furthermore, the multiple test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may not include the test sounds constituting the first mode sound source. That is, the second mode sound source may be composed of test sounds other than the multiple test sounds constituting the first mode sound source.

[0063] In the example of Fig. 10, the accuracy rate of a hearing test conducted using a first mode sound source under a predetermined standard is α. The second mode sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that the accuracy rate of a hearing test under the predetermined standard is close to the accuracy rate α (the difference in accuracy rate is within a predetermined threshold). In other words, the accuracy rate of a hearing test conducted under the predetermined standard using the first sound source of the second mode sound source is β. １ The difference between the accuracy rate α and the accuracy rate β is within a predetermined threshold. ２ The difference between the accuracy rate α and the accuracy rate β is within a predetermined threshold. Ｎ The difference between the accuracy rate α and the accuracy rate α is within a predetermined threshold.

[0064] The predetermined threshold is, for example, a value of 10% or less, preferably a value of 7% or less, and more preferably a value of 5% or less. The predetermined threshold may be a value of 3% or less, or a value of 2% or less.

[0065] In the example of Fig. 10, the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source are selected from among multiple test sounds. However, the test sounds constituting the first mode sound source may also be selected from among multiple test sounds. For example, the test sounds constituting the first mode sound source may be selected so that the difference between the accuracy rate of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion using the first mode sound source and the accuracy rate of a hearing test under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) using the second mode sound source is within a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may be the same as described above.

[0066] Here, the multiple test sounds constituting the first mode sound source may be selected from the multiple test sounds constituting the second mode sound source. The number of second mode sound sources to be selected as test sound candidates is not limited to one, and multiple test sounds may be selected. That is, the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may be selected from the test sounds of the multiple first mode sound sources. The first mode sound source may include test sounds other than one or more test sounds constituting the second mode sound source.

[0067] The test sounds constituting the first mode sound source do not necessarily have to include the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source, i.e., the first mode sound source may be composed of test sounds other than the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source.

[0068] The information processing device acquires the results of a hearing test conducted using such a sound source (first test result and second test result). The information processing device may include a first test control unit that performs processing related to the first hearing test and a second test control unit that performs processing related to the second hearing test. In this case, the information processing device may acquire the results of the hearing test (first hearing test and / or second hearing test) conducted using the test control unit (first test control unit and / or second test control unit) as the first test result and / or the second test result. Of course, the information processing device may also acquire the results of a hearing test (first hearing test and / or second hearing test) conducted using another information processing device as the first test result and / or the second test result.

[0069] The information processing device then performs processing to display the first test result and the second test result so that they can be compared. For example, the information processing device plots the first test result and the second test result on the same graph. The information processing device then performs output control to output the graph on which the first test result and the second test result are plotted to an output device. The output device for which the information processing device performs output control may be a device integrated with the information processing device (for example, a display provided in the information processing device) or may be a device separate from the information processing device.

[0070] User U2 looks at the test results (graphs plotting the first and second test results) output to the output device and makes a judgment about user U1's hearing ability. User U2 may be a medical institution employee (e.g., a doctor or a medical technician) or a person from an organization other than a medical institution (e.g., a clerk at a hearing aid store or a researcher at a university or research institute).

[0071] This makes it possible to directly compare the results of a test method that takes a long time to test but provides detailed results with the results of a test method that takes a short time to test but provides limited results, thereby enabling the effective use of test results.

[0072] The outline of this embodiment has been described above, and the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will now be described in detail.

[0073] <<2. Configuration of Information Processing System>> First, the overall configuration of the information processing system 1 will be described.

[0074] 11 is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of an information processing system 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing system 1 is a system for executing processes related to a hearing test. For example, the information processing system 1 is a system for executing at least one of processes related to the execution of a hearing test, processes related to the display of test results, and processes related to the generation of a sound source used in the hearing test.

[0075] The information processing system 1 includes one or more information processing devices. In the example of Fig. 11, the information processing system 1 includes multiple information processing devices 10. Note that the devices in the figure may be considered devices in a logical sense. In other words, some of the devices in the figure may be realized by a virtual machine (VM), a container, a docker, or the like, and these may be physically implemented on the same hardware.

[0076] Each of the multiple information processing devices 10 may have a communication function. The multiple information processing devices 10 may be connected via a network N. In this case, the multiple information processing devices 10 can be referred to as communication devices. Note that although only one network N is shown in the example of Fig. 11, multiple networks N may exist.

[0077] Here, the network N is a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), a cellular network, a fixed telephone network, a regional IP (Internet Protocol) network, or the Internet. The network N may include a wired network or a wireless network. The network N may also include a core network. The core network is, for example, an EPC (Evolved Packet Core) or a 5GC (5G Core network). The network N may also include a data network other than the core network. The data network may be a service network of a telecommunications carrier, for example, an IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) network. The data network may also be a private network such as an in-house network.

[0078] The following describes in detail the configuration of the information processing device 10 that constitutes the information processing system 1. Note that the configuration of the information processing device 10 shown below is merely an example. The configuration of the information processing device 10 may be different from the configuration shown below.

[0079] 2-1. Configuration of the Information Processing Device The information processing device 10 is a computer that performs processing related to a hearing test. For example, the information processing device 10 is a computer that performs at least one of processing related to the execution of a hearing test, processing related to the display of test results, and processing related to the generation of a sound source used in the hearing test.

[0080] Any type of computer can be used as the information processing device 10. For example, the information processing device 10 may be a dedicated device for a hearing test. For example, the information processing device 10 may be a device for conducting a hearing test (e.g., an audiometer) or a device for processing test data.

[0081] The information processing device 10 is not limited to a dedicated device. For example, the information processing device 10 may be a server device. In this case, the information processing device 10 may be an application server or a web server. The information processing device 10 may also be a cloud server or an edge server. The information processing device 10 may also be a PC server, a mid-range server, or a mainframe server. The information processing device 10 may also be an information processing device (edge ​​computer) that performs data processing (edge ​​processing) near a user or a terminal. For example, the information processing device 10 may be an information processing device (computer) attached to or built into a base station. The information processing device 10 may also be an information processing device (computer) that performs cloud computing.

[0082] The information processing device 10 is not limited to a dedicated device or a server device. For example, the information processing device 10 may be a personal computer. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may be a mobile terminal such as a mobile phone, a smart device (smartphone or tablet), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), or a notebook PC. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may be an IoT (Internet of Things) device.

[0083] Alternatively, the information processing device 10 may be a display device that displays the test results, or may be an audio device that outputs test sounds (for example, headphones, earphones, or speakers). Any type of computer can be used as the information processing device 10.

[0084] Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of an information processing device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The information processing device 10 includes a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, a control unit 13, an input unit 14, and an output unit 15. Note that the configuration illustrated in Fig. 12 is a functional configuration, and the hardware configuration may be different from this.

[0085] Furthermore, the functions of the information processing device 10 may be distributed and implemented across multiple physically separated components. For example, the information processing device 10 may be configured with multiple dedicated devices, multiple server devices, multiple personal computers, or multiple mobile terminals. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may be configured with multiple devices selected from one or more dedicated devices, one or more server devices, one or more personal computers, and one or more mobile terminals.

[0086] The communication unit 11 is a communication interface for communicating with other devices. For example, the communication unit 11 is a LAN (Local Area Network) interface such as a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 11 may be a wired interface or a wireless interface. The communication unit 11 communicates with, for example, other information processing devices 10 under the control of the control unit 13.

[0087] The storage unit 12 is a data readable / writable storage device such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a static random access memory (SRAM), a flash memory, a hard disk, etc. The storage unit 12 stores, for example, at least one piece of information including a first mode sound source, a second mode sound source, a first mode test result, and a second mode test result. Details of this information will be described later.

[0088] The control unit 13 is a controller that controls each unit of the information processing device 10. The control unit 13 may be realized by a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). In particular, the control unit 13 may be realized by a processor executing various programs stored in a storage device internal to the information processing device 10 using a RAM (Random Access Memory) or the like as a work area. The control unit 13 may be realized by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 13 may also be realized by a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). A CPU, an MPU, an ASIC, an FPGA, and a GPU can all be considered controllers. The control unit 13 may be composed of multiple physically separated objects. For example, the control unit 13 may be composed of multiple semiconductor chips.

[0089] The control unit 13 includes at least one block selected from the group consisting of an acquisition unit 131, a display control unit 132, a first inspection control unit 133, a second inspection control unit 134, a discrimination unit 135, a generation unit 136, an output control unit 137, and a communication control unit 138. Each block constituting the control unit 13 (e.g., the acquisition unit 131 to the communication control unit 138) is a functional block that represents a function of the control unit 13. These functional blocks may be software blocks or hardware blocks. For example, each of the above-described functional blocks may be a software module implemented by software (including a microprogram) or a circuit block on a semiconductor chip (die). Of course, each functional block may be a processor or an integrated circuit. The control unit 13 may be configured with functional units different from the above-described functional blocks. The method of configuring the functional blocks is arbitrary.

[0090] The control unit 13 may be configured with functional units different from the above-described functional blocks. Also, some or all of the operations of the blocks (e.g., the acquisition unit 131 to the communication control unit 138) constituting the control unit 13 may be performed by another device.

[0091] The input unit 14 is an input device that accepts various inputs from the outside. For example, the input unit 14 is an operation device such as a keyboard, a mouse, or operation keys that allows the user to perform various operations. If the information processing device 10 is equipped with a touch panel, the touch panel is also included in the input unit 14. In this case, the user performs various operations by touching the screen with a finger or a stylus.

[0092] The output unit 15 is a device that outputs various types of information to the outside, such as sound, light, vibration, and image. The output unit 15 includes a display unit that displays various types of information. The display unit is, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. Note that, when a touch panel is adopted as the display device of the information processing device 10, the display unit may be a device integrated with the input unit 14. The output unit 15 outputs various types of information to the user under the control of the control unit 13.

[0093] The configuration of the information processing system 1 has been described above. The operation of the information processing system 1 will now be described.

[0094] 3. First Embodiment First, the operation of an information processing system 1 according to a first embodiment will be described.

[0095] The information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment executes at least one of a sound source generation process, a first mode inspection process, a second mode inspection process, and an inspection result display process.

[0096] At least one of these processes (for example, the sound source generation process, the first mode inspection process, the second mode inspection process, and the inspection result display process) may be executed by a single information processing device 10. Of course, a single information processing device 10 may execute all of these processes. When a single information processing device executes the processes, the description of "information processing system 1" described above or below can be replaced with "information processing device 10."

[0097] Furthermore, at least one of these processes (for example, the sound source generation process, the first mode inspection process, the second mode inspection process, and the inspection result display process) may be performed cooperatively by multiple information processing devices 10. When multiple information processing devices perform processes cooperatively, the description of "information processing device 10" described above or below can be replaced with "information processing system 1."

[0098] <3-1. Inspection Mode> Before describing the operation of the information processing system 1, the inspection mode that is the premise of this embodiment will be described.

[0099] Fig. 13 is a diagram for explaining the inspection modes. Fig. 13 shows a graph on which inspection results of a plurality of inspection modes are plotted. More specifically, Fig. 13 shows a graph on which inspection results of a first mode and a second mode are plotted.

[0100] In this embodiment, the inspection mode that takes a long time to inspect but provides detailed results is called the first mode. Also, the inspection mode that provides shorter inspection times than the first mode but provides more limited results is called the second mode. In the example of Figure 13, the black circles on the graph indicate the inspection results (inspection values) of the first mode, and the black squares on the graph indicate the inspection results (inspection values) of the second mode.

[0101] In the example of Figure 13, there are five test values ​​in the first mode. From the test values ​​in the first mode, it can be seen that the SRT-50 is approximately 3 dB, and that the score is 95% when the S / N ratio is 10 dB or higher. Also, in the example of Figure 13, there is one test value in the second mode. From the test value in the second mode, it can be seen that the SRT-50 is 3 dB.

[0102] As shown in Figure 13, the test values ​​in the second mode are located near the curve (broken line) obtained from the test values ​​in the first mode. As such, according to this embodiment, the test results in the first mode and the second mode can be directly compared. This allows the tester to freely perform the test depending on the situation. For example, the tester can perform the test in the first mode when detailed test results are desired, and can perform the test in the second mode when the test time is desired to be shortened.

[0103] <3-2. Example of Functional Configuration of Information Processing System According to First Embodiment> Next, an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0104] Fig. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an information processing system 1 according to Example 1. The information processing system 1 according to Example 1 has a plurality of functions related to a hearing test. In the example of Fig. 14, the information processing system 1 includes a test control unit, a first mode test implementation unit, a second mode test implementation unit, a test sound output unit, a storage unit, a first mode sound source storage unit, a second mode sound source storage unit, a first display unit, and a first input unit.

[0105] The test control unit corresponds to the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10. The first mode test implementation unit corresponds to the first test control unit 133 of the information processing device 10. The second mode test implementation unit corresponds to the second test control unit 134 of the information processing device 10. The test sound output unit corresponds to the output unit 15 and / or the output control unit 137 of the information processing device 10. The storage unit, the first mode sound source storage unit, and the second mode sound source storage unit correspond to the storage unit 12 of the information processing device 10. The first display unit corresponds to the output unit 15 and / or the display control unit 132 of the information processing device 10. The first input unit corresponds to the input unit 14 and / or the acquisition unit 131 of the information processing device 10.

[0106] Each function (from the test control unit to the first input unit) shown in FIG. 14 may be realized by one information processing device 10 or may be realized by a plurality of information processing devices 10 working together.

[0107] The first mode sound source storage unit stores a first mode test sound source (hereinafter also referred to as a first mode sound source). The first mode sound source includes a plurality of test sounds (hereinafter also referred to as a first mode test sounds).

[0108] When the examiner performs the test in the first mode, the test control unit acquires the first mode sound source from the first mode sound source storage unit and transmits the first mode sound source to the first mode test execution unit.

[0109] The first mode test execution unit executes the test according to the test flow, and then transmits the first mode test sound to the test sound output unit.

[0110] The test sound output unit transmits the test sound to the subject. The test sound output unit may be a device that transmits the test sound to the subject (e.g., the output unit 15), or may be a control device that controls the output of the device that transmits the test sound to the subject (e.g., the output control unit 137).

[0111] The device that transmits the test sound to the subject (hereinafter also referred to as the output device) may be a speaker, headphones, earphones, a sound collector, a hearing aid, or a cochlear implant. Various other devices that can output sound can also be used as the output device. The output device may be a device separate from the information processing device 10 that includes the test implementation unit (first mode test implementation unit and / or second mode test implementation unit). Of course, the output device may be considered as part of the information processing device 10. The connection between the information processing device 10 and the output device may be wired or wireless.

[0112] The examiner / subject uses the first input unit to operate the test. The examiner / subject also uses the first input unit to input the subject's answers. The subject's answers may be input at any time during the test or all at once after the test.

[0113] The first display unit displays the progress of the test, etc. For example, if the subject's answers are input at any time, the first display unit may display black circles and lines connecting them as shown in FIG.

[0114] The storage unit stores the test results. The test results may include at least one of test sound source information, the subject's answers, and test sound presentation conditions in addition to the final score. These pieces of information will be described later.

[0115] When the examiner performs the test in the second mode, the test control unit acquires the second-mode sound source from the second-mode sound source storage unit and transmits the second-mode sound source to the second-mode test execution unit.

[0116] The second-mode test execution unit executes the test according to the test flow, and then transmits the second-mode test sound to the test sound output unit.

[0117] The test sound output unit transmits the test sound to the subject. The test sound output unit may be a device that transmits the test sound to the subject (e.g., the output unit 15), or may be a device that controls the output of the device that transmits the test sound to the subject (e.g., the output control unit 137). The device that transmits the test sound to the subject (output device) may be the same device as the output device used in the first mode.

[0118] The information processing system 1 may provide visual information to the subject in accordance with the progress of the examination.

[0119] The examiner / subject uses the first input unit to operate the test. The examiner / subject also uses the first input unit to input the subject's answers. The subject's answers may be input at any time during the test or all at once after the test. Whether the answers are input at any time or all at once depends on the type of the second mode.

[0120] The device for operating the test and / or inputting the subject's answers (hereinafter also referred to as the input device) may be the same as the input device used in the first mode.

[0121] The first display unit displays the progress of the test, etc. For example, if the subject's answers are input at any time, the first display unit may display a broken line as shown in Fig. 6 according to the progress of the test. After the test is completed, the first display unit may display a black square as shown in Fig. 13.

[0122] The storage unit stores the test results. The test results may include at least one of test sound source information, the subject's answers, and test sound presentation conditions in addition to the final score. These pieces of information will be described later.

[0123] <3-3. Characteristics of Sound Source> Next, the characteristics of the test sound source (first mode sound source and second mode sound source) used in the hearing test of this embodiment will be described. In the following description, the test sound source may be simply referred to as the sound source.

[0124] 15 and 16 are diagrams showing an example of a sound source according to this embodiment.

[0125] FIG. 15 shows a state in which there are N second mode sound sources (partial sound sources) in a first mode sound source. Here, N is an arbitrary integer. In the example of FIG. 15, the first mode sound source includes a second mode first sound source, a second mode second sound source, ..., a second mode Nth sound source. The second mode sound source may be composed of a smaller number of test sounds than the number of test sounds constituting the first mode sound source. That is, the first mode sound source may be composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds constituting the second mode sound source. The first mode sound source may be composed of, for example, 50 words, and each second mode sound source may be composed of, for example, 5 words.

[0126] In this embodiment, it is important that the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source have the same or similar characteristics regarding the results of a hearing test under the same criteria. For example, it is important that the accuracy rate of the first mode sound source under a predetermined criterion and the accuracy rate of the second mode sound source under a predetermined criterion are the same or similar. That is, the accuracy rate of the first mode sound source is defined as α, and the accuracy rate of the second mode sound source is defined as β. １ , the accuracy rate of the second mode second sound source is β ２ , ..., the accuracy rate of the second mode Nth sound source is β Ｎ Then, β １ ≒α, β ２ ≒α, β Ｎ It is important to satisfy the relationship ≒ α, where accuracy rate = number of correct answers / number of words.

[0127] Here, the term "identical or similar" refers to, for example, the difference between the accuracy rate of a hearing test under a predetermined standard using a first-mode sound source and the accuracy rate of a hearing test under a predetermined standard using a second-mode sound source being within a predetermined threshold. The accuracy rate of a hearing test under a predetermined standard is, for example, the average accuracy rate when multiple subjects (e.g., people with normal hearing) perform a hearing test under predetermined noise. The predetermined noise is, for example, a speech-like stationary noise with an S / N ratio in the range of -20 dB to +10 dB, more preferably -15 dB to +5 dB. The non-stationary noise is a noise with an S / N ratio in the range of -15 dB to +15 dB, more preferably -10 dB to +10 dB, but because differences due to the characteristics of non-stationary noise are significant, a 5 dB shift is within the range. The predetermined threshold is, for example, a value of 10% or less, preferably a value of 7% or less, and more preferably a value of 5% or less. The predetermined threshold may be a value of 3% or less, or a value of 2% or less.

[0128] FIG. 16 shows M first-mode sound sources in the overall sound source, and N second-mode sound sources in each first-mode sound source. Here, M and N are arbitrary integers. In the example of FIG. 16, the first-mode sound source includes second-mode 11 sound sources to second-mode 1N sound sources, and the first-mode M sound source includes second-mode M1 sound sources to second-mode MN sound sources. The second-mode sound source may be composed of test sounds fewer than the number of test sounds constituting the first-mode sound source. That is, the first-mode sound source may be composed of test sounds greater than the number of test sounds constituting the second-mode sound source. Each first-mode sound source may be composed of, for example, 50 words, and each second-mode sound source may be composed of, for example, 5 words.

[0129] As described above, in this embodiment, it is important that the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source have the same or similar characteristics regarding the results of the hearing test under the same criteria. For example, it is important that the accuracy rate of the first mode sound source under a predetermined criterion and the accuracy rate of the second mode sound source under a predetermined criterion are the same or similar. In other words, it is important that the accuracy rate of the first mode first sound source is α １, the accuracy rate of the first mode M sound source is α Ｍ , the accuracy rate of the 11th sound source in the second mode is β １１ , the accuracy rate of the 1st Nth sound source in the 2nd mode is β １Ｎ , the accuracy rate of the second mode M1 sound source is β Ｍ１ , the accuracy rate of the second mode MN sound source is β ＭＮ , then α １ ≒α Ｍ , β １１ ≒α １ , β １Ｎ ≒α １ , β Ｍ１ ≒α Ｍ , β ＭＮ ≒α Ｍ It is important to satisfy the relationship.

[0130] 15 and 16, the characteristics of the sound source are described using the accuracy rate, but the characteristics of the sound source are not limited to the accuracy rate. The characteristics of the sound source may be a score other than the accuracy rate (for example, at least one of SRT-50 and a unique score).

[0131] 17 and 18 are diagrams showing other examples of the sound source of this embodiment.

[0132] FIG. 17 shows N subsets (subsets) of the first mode sound source. Here, N is an arbitrary integer. The difference from the sound source shown in FIG. 15 is that elements (test sounds) of the second mode sound source are allowed to overlap with elements (test sounds) of the first mode sound source. Furthermore, there may be elements included in the first mode sound source that are not included in the second mode sound source. The second mode sound source may be composed of fewer test sounds than the first mode sound source. That is, the first mode sound source may be composed of more test sounds than the second mode sound source. Additionally, the characteristics of the sound source shown in FIG. 17 (e.g., characteristics related to the results of a hearing test under the same criteria) may be the same as the characteristics of the sound source shown in FIG. 15.

[0133] FIG. 18 shows a global sound source with M first mode sound sources and N second mode sound sources corresponding to each first mode sound source. Here, M and N are arbitrary integers. The difference from the global sound source shown in FIG. 16 is that elements (test sounds) of each first mode sound source are allowed to overlap with elements (test sounds) of the global sound source. Furthermore, there may be elements included in the global sound source that are not included in the first mode sound source. Elements of the second mode sound source may overlap with corresponding elements of the first mode sound source. There may be elements included in the first mode sound source that are not included in the second mode sound source. Furthermore, the elements of the second mode sound source are not limited to the elements of the corresponding first mode sound source, and may be elements included in the global sound source.

[0134] In Fig. 18 , the elements (test sounds) of the second mode sound source are not limited to the elements (test sounds) of the first mode sound source. The second mode sound source may be composed of a smaller number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that make up the first mode sound source. That is, the first mode sound source may be composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that make up the second mode sound source. The characteristics of the sound source shown in Fig. 18 (characteristics related to the results of a hearing test under the same criteria) may be similar to the characteristics of the sound source shown in Fig. 16 .

[0135] <3-3-2. Method for Selecting Second-Mode Sound Source> Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a method for selecting a second-mode sound source. The upper part of Fig. 19 is an example of a first-mode sound source. The first-mode sound source shown in Fig. 19 corresponds to one list. The first-mode sound source shown in Fig. 19 is composed of ten elements (test sounds) from element 1 to element 10. The lower part of Fig. 19 is an example of a second-mode sound source. Fig. 19 shows two second-mode sound sources: a second-mode first sound source and a second-mode second sound source. Each of the second-mode sound sources shown in Fig. 19 is composed of five elements (test sounds).

[0136] Looking at the elements of the first mode sound source shown in Fig. 19 individually, the average scores of the second and third elements are lower than the others. The average score is, for example, the accuracy rate of a hearing test conducted on multiple subjects (for example, multiple people with normal hearing) using the corresponding test sound (for example, any of the first to tenth elements). In the example of Fig. 19, the information processing device allocates the second and third elements with low scores to multiple second mode sound sources (in the example of Fig. 19, the second mode first sound source and the second mode second sound source), thereby making the average score of the second mode first sound source and the average score of the second mode second sound source close to that of the first mode sound source.

[0137] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing another example of a method for selecting a second-mode sound source. The upper part of FIG. 20 shows an example of a first-mode sound source. The first-mode sound source shown in FIG. 20 corresponds to one list. The first-mode sound source shown in FIG. 20 is composed of ten elements (test sounds) from element 1 to element 10. The lower part of FIG. 20 shows an example of a second-mode sound source. Two second-mode sound sources, a second-mode first sound source and a second-mode second sound source, are shown in FIG. 20. Each of the second-mode sound sources shown in FIG. 20 is composed of five elements (test sounds).

[0138] When the elements of the first-mode sound source shown in Fig. 20 are individually viewed, the average scores of all elements are approximately the same. If the average scores of all elements are close to each other, as in the first-mode sound source shown in Fig. 20, it is easier to select the second-mode sound source. In the example of Fig. 20, the information processing device can freely allocate the elements of the first-mode sound source to multiple second-mode sound sources.

[0139] The information processing device may convert the first-mode sound source into, for example, the first-mode sound source shown in Fig. 20 and then select the second-mode sound source. For example, the information processing device may adjust the scores of the elements constituting the first-mode sound source to an equal level and then select the second-mode sound source. In the example of Fig. 19, the information processing device may adjust the scores of the second and third elements, which have low average scores in the first-mode sound source, to an equal level with the other elements by increasing the audio level or the S / N ratio of the second and third elements.

[0140] Based on the above, the operation of the information processing system 1 will be described.

[0141] <3-4. Sound Source Generation Processing> First, the sound source generation processing will be described.

[0142] The sound source generation process is a process for generating at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source based on characteristics of the other sound source related to the result of a hearing test under a predetermined standard. For example, the information processing device 10 generates a second mode sound source based on characteristics of the first mode sound source related to the result of a hearing test under a predetermined standard.

[0143] The sound source generation process may be performed by one information processing device 10, or may be performed by multiple information processing devices 10 in cooperation with each other. When multiple information processing devices 10 perform the sound source generation process in cooperation with each other, the term "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" Ｎ " or "information processing system 1." Here, N is an arbitrary integer. For example, if two information processing devices 10 cooperate to perform the sound source generation process, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" １ ", "information processing device 10 ２ " or "information processing system 1."

[0144] The information processing device 10 that executes the sound source generation process may be the same device as the information processing device 10 that executes the processes described above and / or later (e.g., at least one of the first mode inspection process, the second mode inspection process, and the inspection result display process), or it may be a different device.

[0145] A part or all of the processes (e.g., a part or all of the steps) of the sound source generation process may be performed by a person. In this case, the person performing the sound source generation process may perform a part or all of the processes using the information processing device 10.

[0146] Two specific examples (first and second examples) of the sound source generation process will be described below.

[0147] <3-4-1. First Example of Sound Source Generation Processing> First, a first example of sound source generation processing will be described.

[0148] 21 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device 10 that executes a sound source generation process according to a first example. The information processing device that executes the sound source generation process has a function related to generation of a second sound source. In the example of FIG. 21, the information processing device includes a control unit, a sound source subsetting unit, a test sound output unit, a response input unit, and a sound source storage unit.

[0149] The control unit corresponds to the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 12. The sound source subsetting unit corresponds to the generation unit 136 of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 12. The test sound output unit corresponds to the output control unit 137 and / or the output unit 15 of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 12. The sound source storage unit corresponds to the storage unit 12 of the information processing device 10. The answer input unit corresponds to the input unit 14 and / or the acquisition unit 131 of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 12.

[0150] Each function (control unit to sound source storage unit) shown in FIG. 21 may be realized by one information processing device 10 or may be realized by a plurality of information processing devices 10 working together.

[0151] The sound source storage unit stores a first mode sound source or an entire sound source including the first mode sound source. The sound source stored in the sound source storage unit corresponds to the first mode sound source in Fig. 15, 16, 17, or 18, for example. Alternatively, the sound source stored in the sound source storage unit corresponds to the entire sound source in Fig. 16 or 18, for example.

[0152] The control unit reads out the sound source from the sound source storage unit and transmits it to the test sound output unit.

[0153] The test sound output unit transmits the test sound to a subject (e.g., a person with normal hearing). The subject's response is input to the control unit through the response input unit.

[0154] The control unit performs statistical processing on the responses of the multiple subjects. For example, the control unit calculates an average score for the first mode sound source and an average score for each element (test sound) that constitutes the first mode sound source. The control unit then transmits the results of the statistical processing to the sound source subsetting unit.

[0155] The sound source subsetting unit subsets the first mode sound sources based on the responses of the plurality of subjects so that the average score of each of the plurality of second mode sound sources is close to the average score of the first mode sound sources. For example, the sound source subsetting unit distributes the elements (test sounds) constituting the first mode sound sources into a plurality of subsets.

[0156] The control unit stores the subset generated by the sound source subsetting unit as a second mode sound source in the sound source storage unit.

[0157] FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a sound source generation process (first example) according to the first embodiment. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 22 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 22 can be performed independently. Hereinafter, the sound source generation process according to the first example will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 22.

[0158] First, the information processing device 10 performs a hearing test on multiple subjects using a first mode sound source or an entire sound source including a first mode sound source (step S101). For example, the control unit of the information processing device 10 controls the test sound output unit to output the first mode sound source or the entire sound source including a first mode sound source to the subjects. The subjects are, for example, young people with normal hearing. This hearing test may be performed by an examiner rather than by the information processing device 10. In this case, the examiner may use the information processing device 10 or another information processing device 10 to output the first mode sound source or the entire sound source including a first mode sound source to multiple subjects.

[0159] Then, the information processing device 10 acquires the test results of the hearing test performed in step S101 (step S102). For example, the control unit of the information processing device 10 acquires inputs by the subjects / examiners into the answer input unit as the test results. At this time, the control unit of the information processing device 10 may acquire the answers input into the answer input unit by each subject as the test results, or may acquire the tester's judgment results (e.g., correct / incorrect) based on the answers of each subject as the test results. Note that the judgment of correct / incorrect may be performed by the information processing device 10 rather than by the examiner. In this case, the information processing device 10 may acquire its own judgment results as the test results.

[0160] Next, the information processing device 10 generates a second sound source based on the test results acquired in step S102 (step S103). For example, the information processing device 10 generates the second mode sound source by selecting multiple test sounds so that the score of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion using the second mode sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with the score of a hearing test under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) using the first mode sound source. At this time, the information processing device 10 may generate the second mode sound source by selecting multiple test sounds from the multiple test sounds that constitute the first mode sound source. For example, the sound source subsetting unit of the information processing device 10 may generate the second mode sound source by subsetting the first sound source based on the result of statistical processing of the test results.

[0161] <3-4-2. Second Example of Sound Source Generation Processing> Next, a second example of sound source generation processing will be described.

[0162] 23 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an information processing device 10 that executes a sound source generation process according to a second example. The information processing device that executes the sound source generation process has functions related to the generation of a second sound source. In the example of FIG. 23, the information processing device includes a control unit, a sound source adjustment unit, a sound source subset grouping unit, a test sound output unit, a response input unit, and a sound source storage unit.

[0163] The control unit corresponds to the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 12. The sound source adjustment unit and the sound source subset grouping unit correspond to the generation unit 136 of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 12. The test sound output unit corresponds to the output unit 15 and / or the output control unit 137 of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 12. The sound source storage unit corresponds to the storage unit 12 of the information processing device 10. The answer input unit corresponds to the input unit 14 and / or the acquisition unit 131 of the information processing device 10 shown in Fig. 12.

[0164] Each function (control unit to sound source storage unit) shown in FIG. 23 may be realized by one information processing device 10 or may be realized by a plurality of information processing devices 10 working together.

[0165] The sound source storage unit stores a first mode sound source or an entire sound source including the first mode sound source. The sound source stored in the sound source storage unit corresponds to, for example, the first mode sound source in Figures 15 to 18 or the entire sound source in Figure 16 or 18.

[0166] The control unit reads out the sound source from the sound source storage unit and transmits it to the test sound output unit.

[0167] The test sound output unit transmits the test sound to a subject (e.g., a person with normal hearing). The subject's response is input to the control unit through the response input unit.

[0168] The control unit performs statistical processing on the responses of the multiple subjects. For example, the control unit calculates an average score for the first mode sound source and an average score for each of the elements (test sounds) that make up the first mode sound source.

[0169] If the variation in the average scores is equal to or less than a reference value, the control unit transmits the results of the statistical processing to the sound source subsetting unit. The sound source subsetting unit subsets the first mode sound sources based on the responses of the multiple subjects so that the average score of each of the multiple second mode sound sources is close to the average score of the first mode sound sources. For example, the sound source subsetting unit distributes the elements (test sounds) that make up the first mode sound source into multiple subsets.

[0170] If the variation in the average score exceeds a reference value, the control unit sends the results of the statistical processing to the sound source adjustment unit. The sound source adjustment unit adjusts the first mode sound source based on the responses of the multiple subjects so as to reduce the variation in the average scores of the multiple elements (test sounds) that make up the first mode sound source. In the example of Figure 19, the sound level of the second and / or third elements of the first mode sound source may be increased, or the S / N ratio of the second and / or third elements of the first mode sound source may be increased. The control unit stores the adjusted first mode sound source in the sound source storage unit.

[0171] The control unit acquires test results (responses from multiple subjects) based on the adjusted first mode sound source. The control unit then performs statistical processing on the responses from the multiple subjects. For example, the control unit calculates an average score for the adjusted first mode sound source and an average score for each of the elements (test sounds) that make up the adjusted first mode sound source.

[0172] The control unit sends the results of the statistical processing to the sound source subsetting unit. The sound source subsetting unit subsets the first mode sound sources based on the responses of the multiple subjects so that the average score of each of the multiple second mode sound sources is close to the average score of the first mode sound sources. For example, the sound source subsetting unit distributes the elements (test sounds) that make up the first mode sound sources into multiple subsets.

[0173] The control unit stores the subset generated by the sound source subsetting unit as a second mode sound source in the sound source storage unit.

[0174] FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a sound source generation process (second example) according to the first embodiment. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 24 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 24 can be performed independently. Hereinafter, the sound source generation process according to the second example will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 24.

[0175] First, the information processing device 10 performs a hearing test on multiple subjects using a first mode sound source or an entire sound source including a first mode sound source (step S201). For example, the control unit of the information processing device 10 controls the test sound output unit to output the first mode sound source or the entire sound source including a first mode sound source to the subjects. The subjects are, for example, young people with normal hearing. This hearing test may be performed by an examiner rather than by the information processing device 10. In this case, the examiner may use the information processing device 10 or another information processing device 10 to output the first mode sound source or the entire sound source including a first mode sound source to multiple subjects.

[0176] Then, the information processing device 10 acquires the test results of the hearing test performed in step S201 (step S202). For example, the control unit of the information processing device 10 acquires inputs by the subjects / examiners into the answer input unit as the test results. At this time, the control unit of the information processing device 10 may acquire the answers input into the answer input unit by each subject as the test results, or may acquire the tester's judgment result (e.g., correct / incorrect) based on each subject's answer as the test result. Note that the judgment of correct / incorrect may be performed by the information processing device 10 rather than by the examiner. In this case, the information processing device 10 may acquire its own judgment result as the test result.

[0177] Next, the information processing device 10 performs statistical processing on the test results acquired in step S202. For example, the control unit of the information processing device 10 calculates the average score of each element (test sound) that constitutes the first mode sound source. Then, the information processing device 10 determines whether the result of the statistical processing satisfies a standard (step S203). For example, the control unit of the information processing device 10 determines whether the variation in the average scores of the multiple elements (test sounds) that constitute the first mode sound source is equal to or less than a standard value.

[0178] If the criterion is not met (step S203: No), for example, if the variability in the average score exceeds the criterion value, the sound source adjustment unit of the information processing device 10 adjusts the first mode sound source to reduce the variability in the average scores of the multiple elements (test sounds) that make up the first mode sound source (step S204).The information processing device 10 then returns to step S201 and performs the hearing test again with the adjusted first mode sound source.

[0179] If the criterion is satisfied (step S203: Yes), for example, if the variation in the average score is equal to or less than the criterion value, the information processing device 10 generates a second sound source based on the test results acquired in step S202 (step S205). For example, the information processing device 10 generates the second mode sound source by selecting multiple test sounds so that the score of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion using the second mode sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with the score of a hearing test under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) using the first mode sound source. In this case, the information processing device 10 may generate the second mode sound source by selecting multiple test sounds from the multiple test sounds that constitute the first mode sound source. For example, the sound source subsetting unit of the information processing device 10 may generate the second mode sound source by subsetting the first sound source based on the result of statistical processing of the test results.

[0180] <3-5. First Mode Inspection Processing> Next, the first mode inspection processing will be described.

[0181] The first mode test process is a process for a first mode hearing test. The first mode hearing test is a hearing test (first hearing test) performed using a test method that takes a longer test time than the second mode hearing test but provides more detailed results than the second mode hearing test. The first mode test process is performed using a first mode sound source (first sound source). The first mode sound source is composed of multiple test sounds. The first mode sound source is composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that make up the second mode sound source.

[0182] The first mode inspection process may be executed by one information processing device 10, or may be executed by a plurality of information processing devices 10 in cooperation with each other. When a plurality of information processing devices 10 execute the first mode inspection process in cooperation with each other, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" Ｎ " or "information processing system 1." Here, N is an arbitrary integer. For example, if two information processing devices 10 cooperate to execute the first mode inspection process, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" １ ", "information processing device 10 ２ " or "information processing system 1."

[0183] The information processing device 10 that performs the first mode inspection process may be the same device as the information processing device 10 that performs the aforementioned and / or later-described processes (e.g., at least one of the sound source generation process, the second mode inspection process, and the inspection result display process), or it may be a different device.

[0184] A part or all of the processes (e.g., a part or all of the steps) of the first mode inspection process may be performed by a person (e.g., an inspector). In this case, the person performing the first mode inspection process may perform a part or all of the processes of the sound source generation process using the information processing device 10.

[0185] Before describing the flow of the first mode test process, an example of the test results of a hearing test in the first mode will be described. Figures 25A and 25B are diagrams showing an example of the test results of a hearing test in the first mode. Figure 25A is a graph showing the test results, and Figure 25B shows the details. Specifically, Figure 25B shows detailed test conditions in addition to the test results.

[0186] Figures 25A and 25B show test results for 5 dB increments from an SNR of +15 dB to -5 dB. In this example, each first mode sound source contains 50 words. The first sound source, sound source number 2, was presented to the subject (e.g., a patient) at a speech level of 55 dB, a noise level of 40 dB, and an SNR of +15 dB. The subject correctly answered 48 of the 50 words, for a 96% accuracy rate. The next sound source, sound source number 3, was presented to the subject at a speech level of 55 dB, a noise level of 45 dB, and an SNR of +10 dB. The subject correctly answered 48 of the 50 words, for a 96% accuracy rate. The examiner / information processing device continued the test in the same manner. The accuracy rate was 70% at an SNR of +5 dB, 20% at an SNR of 0 dB, and 6% at an SNR of -5 dB.

[0187] In this way, the first mode uses many test sounds (for example, 50 words) and therefore produces a highly accurate result score.

[0188] FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a first mode inspection process according to the first embodiment. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 26 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 26 can be performed independently. The first mode inspection process is executed, for example, by the control unit 13 (e.g., the first inspection control unit 133) of the information processing device 10. The first mode inspection process will be described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 26.

[0189] First, the information processing apparatus 10 sets 1 to a variable h that indicates the order of the first mode sound source (list) unit (step S301).

[0190] Then, the information processing device 10 determines whether the variable h is h ｍａｘ It is determined whether the value is equal to or less than the value (step S302). ｍａｘ is the number of first mode sound sources (lists) used in the first mode. In the example of FIG. 25B, h ｍａｘ = 5. The variable h is h ｍａｘ If it is greater (step S302: No), the information processing apparatus 10 ends the first mode inspection process.

[0191] The variable h is h ｍａｘIn the following case (step S302: Yes), the information processing device 10 applies the function f1 to the variable i. ｉ (h) value, variable x, function f1 ｘ (h) is substituted (step S303). ｉ The value of (h) is the first mode sound source number (list number) corresponding to the variable h. In the example of FIG. 25B, when the variable h=1, the function f1 ｉ The value of (h) is 2. Function f1 ｘ The value of (h) is the SN ratio corresponding to the variable h. In the example of FIG. 25B, when the variable h=1, the function f1 ｘ The value of (h) is 15.

[0192] Next, the information processing device 10 performs a hearing test using the first mode i-th sound source and the S / N ratio x (step S304). For example, the information processing device 10 presents one list of sound sources (the first mode i-th sound source) to the test subject at the S / N ratio x and obtains a response from the test subject. The test subject may be, for example, a patient and / or a customer who complains of hearing difficulties. Note that in the example of FIG. 25B, the speech level is fixed at 55 dB. Therefore, when the S / N ratio x is 15, the noise level is 40 dB (= 55 dB - 15 dB).

[0193] Next, the information processing device 10 adds 1 to the variable h (step S305), and then returns the process to step S301.

[0194] <3-6. Second Mode Inspection Processing> Next, the second mode inspection processing will be described.

[0195] The second mode test process is a process for a second mode hearing test. The second mode hearing test is a hearing test (second hearing test) performed using a test method that has limited results compared to the first mode but has a shorter test time than the first mode. The second mode test process is performed using a second mode sound source (second sound source). The second mode sound source is composed of multiple test sounds. The second mode sound source may be composed of a smaller number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that constitute the first mode sound source. In other words, the first mode sound source may be composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that constitute the second mode sound source.

[0196] The second mode inspection process may be executed by one information processing device 10, or may be executed by a plurality of information processing devices 10 in cooperation with each other. When a plurality of information processing devices 10 execute the second mode inspection process in cooperation with each other, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" Ｎ " or "information processing system 1." Here, N is an arbitrary integer. For example, if two information processing devices 10 cooperate to execute the second mode inspection process, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" １ ", "information processing device 10 ２ " or "information processing system 1."

[0197] The information processing device 10 that performs the second mode inspection process may be the same device as the information processing device 10 that performs the aforementioned and / or later-described processes (e.g., at least one of the sound source generation process, the first mode inspection process, and the inspection result display process), or it may be a different device.

[0198] A part or all of the processes (e.g., a part or all of the steps) of the second mode inspection process may be performed by a person (e.g., an inspector). In this case, the person performing the second mode inspection process may use the information processing device 10 to perform a part or all of the processes of the sound source generation process.

[0199] Three specific examples (first to third examples) of the second mode inspection process will be described below.

[0200] <3-6-1. First Example of Second Mode Inspection Processing> First, a first example of the second mode inspection processing will be described.

[0201] 27A and 27B are diagrams showing an example of the results of a hearing test in the second mode. Fig. 27A is a graph showing the test results, and Fig. 27B shows the details. Specifically, Fig. 27B shows the test results as well as detailed test conditions.

[0202] In the example of FIGS. 27A and 27B , a test is performed using 10 second-mode sound sources (partial sound sources). In this example, each second-mode sound source includes five words. The first partial sound sources, sound source numbers 1 to 3, were presented to a subject (e.g., a patient) at a speech level of 55 dB, a noise level of 40 dB, and an S / N ratio of +15 dB. The subject answered correctly to the majority of the five words, and the partial score was "+". Because the partial score was "+", the information processing device 10 lowers the S / N ratio for the next partial sound source. The next partial sound sources, sound source numbers 1 to 4, were presented to the subject at a speech level of 55 dB, a noise level of 45 dB, and an S / N ratio of +10 dB. The subject answered correctly to the majority of the five words, and the partial score was "+". Because the partial score was "+", the information processing device 10 lowers the S / N ratio for the next partial sound source. Thereafter, the measurement results continue as follows: a partial score of "+" for an S / N ratio of +5 dB, a partial score of "-" for an S / N ratio of 0 dB, and a partial score of "-" for an S / N ratio of 2 dB. In the latter half of the test, the S / N ratio tends to asymptotically approach a specific value. Therefore, the information processing device 10 can average the S / N ratios in the latter half of the test to obtain the test result. In the example of FIG. 27B, the information processing device 10 averaged the results of numbers 6 to 10 and obtained an S / N ratio of 3.2 dB as the result score.

[0203] In this way, in the first example of the second mode, the score obtained after approaching a specific value is used as the test result, thereby obtaining a highly accurate result score.

[0204] FIG. 28 is a flowchart showing a second mode inspection process (first example) according to the first embodiment. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 28 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 28 can be performed independently. The second mode inspection process is executed, for example, by the control unit 13 (e.g., the second inspection control unit 134) of the information processing device 10. The second mode inspection process according to the first example will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 28.

[0205] First, the information processing device 10 sets a variable k, which indicates the order of the second mode sound source (partial sound source), to 1, and sets a variable x, which indicates the S / N ratio, to an initial value (step S401). In the example of Fig. 27B, the initial value of the variable x is +15 dB.

[0206] Then, the information processing device 10 determines whether the variable k is k ｍａｘ It is determined whether k is equal to or less than k (step S402). ｍａｘ is the number of second mode sound sources (partial sound sources) used in the second mode. In the example of FIG. 27B, k ｍａｘ = 10. When the variable k is k ｍａｘ If it is greater (step S402: No), the information processing apparatus 10 ends the second mode inspection process.

[0207] The variable k is k ｍａｘ In the following case (step S402: Yes), the information processing device 10 applies the function f2 to the variable i. ｉ The value of (k), the variable j, and the function f2 ｊ (k) is substituted (step S403). ｉ (k) and function f2 ｊ The value of (k) is the second mode sound source number (partial sound source number) corresponding to the variable k. In the example of FIG. 27B, when the variable k=1, the function f2 ｉ The value of (k) is 1, and the function f2 ｊ The value of (k) is 3. Here, the second mode i-j sound source may mean, for example, the j-th partial sound source included in the first mode i-th sound source.

[0208] Next, the information processing device 10 performs a hearing test with the second mode i-j sound source and the S / N ratio x (step S404). For example, the information processing device 10 presents one second mode sound source (the second mode i-j sound source) with the S / N ratio x to the subject, and obtains a response from the subject. The subject may be, for example, a patient and / or a customer who complains of hearing difficulties.

[0209] Next, the information processing device 10 calculates the percentage of correct answers of the subject, and determines whether the percentage of correct answers is equal to or less than a reference value (step S405).

[0210] If the accuracy rate is equal to or lower than the reference value (step S405: Yes), the information processing device 10 increases the SN in order to improve the accuracy rate. ｄThen, the information processing device 10 calculates x+d and assigns the calculation result to the variable x (step S406).

[0211] If the accuracy rate exceeds the reference value (step S405: No), the information processing device 10 reduces the SN in order to reduce the accuracy rate. Specifically, the information processing device 10 applies the function f2 ｄ The information processing device 10 then calculates x-d and assigns the calculation result to the variable x (step S407). In the example of FIG. 27B, the partial score is "+" for turn 1. That is, the accuracy rate for turn 1 exceeds the reference value. Therefore, the information processing device 10 sets the variable d=5 for turn 1. The information processing device 10 then calculates 15-5 and sets the SN ratio x for the next turn 2 to 10 dB.

[0212] Next, the information processing device 10 adds 1 to the variable k (step S408), and then returns the process to step S401.

[0213] <3-6-2. Second Example of Second Mode Inspection Processing> Next, a second example of the second mode inspection processing will be described.

[0214] 29A and 29B are diagrams showing another example of the results of a hearing test using the second mode. Fig. 29A is a graph showing the test results, and Fig. 29B shows the details. Specifically, Fig. 29B shows the test results as well as detailed test conditions.

[0215] In the example of FIGS. 29A and 29B , a test is performed using 10 second-mode sound sources (partial sound sources). In this example, each second-mode sound source includes five words. The first partial sound source, sound source number 2-1, was presented to a subject (e.g., a patient) at a speech level of 55 dB, a noise level of 40 dB, and an S / N ratio of +15 dB. The subject answered five out of five words correctly, resulting in a partial score of 100%. The information processing device 10 lowers the S / N ratio regardless of the subject's partial score. The next partial sound source, sound source number 2-2, was presented to the subject at a speech level of 55 dB, a noise level of 42 dB, and an S / N ratio of +13 dB. The subject answered five out of five words correctly, resulting in a partial score of 100%. The information processing device 10 lowers the S / N ratio regardless of the subject's partial score. The measurement results continue with a partial score of 100% for an S / N ratio of +11 dB, a partial score of 100% for an S / N ratio of +9 dB, and a partial score of 80% for an S / N ratio of +7 dB. The S / N ratio decreases as the order progresses. Accordingly, the partial score also tends to decrease. The information processing device 10 determines the S / N ratio that results in a partial score of 50%, and sets this as the result score. For example, in the example of FIG. 29B, the result score is an S / N ratio of 3.5 dB.

[0216] Thus, in the second example of the second mode, a small number of words, such as five words, are used. Therefore, it is difficult to expect a highly accurate result score as is. Therefore, the information processing device 10 may approximate the partial score with a logistic function and obtain an approximate value of SRT-50 from the approximate curve. This can improve the accuracy of the test.

[0217] In the example of FIGS. 29A and 29B, the test continues up to number 10. However, what is most important for the result score is a partial score of around 50%. If the partial score drops too much, the subject may become stressed or lose concentration. There is also a desire to shorten the test time as much as possible. For this reason, if the partial score falls significantly below 50%, the information processing device 10 may end the test midway. In the example of FIGS. 29A and 29B, the information processing device 10 may, for example, omit number 10.

[0218] FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a second mode inspection process (second example) according to the first embodiment. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 30 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 30 can be performed independently. The second mode inspection process is executed, for example, by the control unit 13 (e.g., the second inspection control unit 134) of the information processing device 10. The second mode inspection process according to the second example will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 30.

[0219] First, the information processing device 10 sets a variable k, which indicates the order of the second mode sound source (partial sound source), to 1, a variable c, which indicates the number of times the accuracy rate is less than a reference value, to 0, and sets a variable x, which indicates the S / N ratio, to an initial value (step S501). In the example of Fig. 29A, the initial value of the variable x is +15 dB.

[0220] Then, the information processing device 10 determines whether the variable k is k ｍａｘ It is determined whether k is equal to or less than k (step S502). ｍａｘ is the number of second mode sound sources (partial sound sources) used in the second mode. In the example of FIG. 29A, k ｍａｘ = 10. When the variable k is k ｍａｘ If it is greater (step S502: No), the information processing apparatus 10 ends the second mode inspection process.

[0221] The variable k is k ｍａｘ In the following case (step S502: Yes), the information processing device 10 applies the function f2 to the variable i. ｉ The value of (k), the variable j, and the function f2 ｊ (k) is substituted (step S503). ｉ (k) and function f2 ｊ The value of (k) is the second mode sound source number (partial sound source number) corresponding to the variable k. In the example of FIG. 29A, when the variable k=1, the function f2 ｉ The value of (k) is 2, and the function f2 ｊ The value of (k) is 1. Here, the second mode i-j sound source may mean, for example, the j-th partial sound source included in the first mode i-th sound source.

[0222] Next, the information processing device 10 performs a hearing test with the second mode i-j sound source and the S / N ratio x (step S504). For example, the information processing device 10 presents one second mode sound source (the second mode i-j sound source) with the S / N ratio x to the subject, and obtains a response from the subject. The subject may be, for example, a patient and / or a customer who complains of hearing difficulties.

[0223] Next, the information processing device 10 calculates the accuracy rate of the subject's answers. Then, the information processing device 10 determines whether the accuracy rate is equal to or greater than a reference value (step S505). If the accuracy rate is equal to or greater than the reference value (step S505: Yes), the information processing device 10 proceeds to step S508.

[0224] If the accuracy rate is less than the reference value (step S505: No), the information processing device 10 adds 1 to the variable c (step S506). ｔｈ It is determined whether the value is less than the value c (step S507). ｔｈ is a threshold (upper limit number of times) for ending the test if the accuracy rate continues to be below the reference value.

[0225] Variable c is c ｔｈ If the above is true (step S507: No), the information processing device 10 ends the second mode inspection process. ｔｈ 29A , the partial score becomes less than 40 from order 8 onwards. In the example of FIG. 29A , the variable c becomes 2 in order 9, so the information processing device 10 ends the second mode inspection process without performing order 10.

[0226] Variable c is c ｔｈ If the accuracy rate is less than the reference value (step S507: Yes), or if the accuracy rate is equal to or greater than the reference value (step S505: Yes), the information processing device 10 applies the function f2 ｄ Then, the information processing device 10 calculates x-d and assigns the calculation result to the variable x (step S508). In the example of FIG. 29A, the function f2 ｄ The value of (k) is always the value 2.

[0227] Next, the information processing device 10 adds 1 to the variable k (step S509), and then returns the process to step S501.

[0228] In the case of the second mode inspection process shown in FIG. 30, the information processing device 10 can abort the process midway if the accuracy rate does not meet the reference value. However, the information processing device 10 does not necessarily have to abort the process midway. In this case, the information processing device 10 may execute step S508 after step S504. Alternatively, the flow may be the same as that shown in FIG. ｔｈ may be set to a sufficiently large value.

[0229] <3-6-3. Third Example of Second Mode Inspection Processing> Next, a third example of the second mode inspection processing will be described.

[0230] 31A and 31B are diagrams showing another example of the results of a hearing test using the second mode. Fig. 31A is a graph showing the test results, and Fig. 31B shows the details. Specifically, Fig. 31B shows the test results as well as detailed test conditions.

[0231] In the examples of Figures 31A and 31B, tests were conducted with S / N ratios of +5 dB and 0 dB. In this example, the second mode sound source (partial sound source) contains 20 words. The first partial sound source, sound source number 4-1, was presented to a subject (e.g., a patient) at a speech level of 55 dB, a noise level of 50 dB, and an S / N ratio of +5 dB. The subject answered 14 out of 20 words correctly, for a 70% accuracy rate. The next partial sound source, sound source number 5-1, was presented to the subject at a speech level of 55 dB, a noise level of 55 dB, and an S / N ratio of 0 dB. The subject answered 4 out of 20 words correctly, for a 20% accuracy rate.

[0232] Thus, the third example of the second mode uses a medium number of words, for example 20 words, and therefore produces a result score of medium accuracy.

[0233] FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing a second mode inspection process (third example) according to the first embodiment. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 32 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 32 can be performed independently. The second mode inspection process is executed, for example, by the control unit 13 (e.g., the second inspection control unit 134) of the information processing device 10. Hereinafter, the second mode inspection process according to the third example will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 32.

[0234] First, the information processing apparatus 10 sets a variable k, which indicates the order of the second mode sound source (partial sound source) unit, to 1 (step S601).

[0235] Then, the information processing device 10 determines whether the variable k is k ｍａｘ It is determined whether k is equal to or less than k (step S602). ｍａｘ is the number of second mode sound sources (partial sound sources) used in the second mode. In the example of FIG. 31A, k ｍａｘ = 2. When the variable k is k ｍａｘ If it is greater (step S602: No), the information processing apparatus 10 ends the second mode inspection process.

[0236] The variable k is k ｍａｘ In the following case (step S602: Yes), the information processing device 10 applies the function f2 to the variable i. ｉ The value of (k), the variable j, and the function f2 ｊ (k) value, variable x, function f2 ｘ (k) is substituted (step S603). ｉ (k) and function f2 ｊ The value of (k) is the second mode sound source number (partial sound source number) corresponding to the variable k. In the example of FIG. 31A, when the variable k=1, the function f2 ｉ The value of (k) is 4, and the function f2 ｊ The value of (k) is 1. Here, the second mode i-j-th excitation may mean, for example, the j-th partial excitation included in the first mode i-th excitation. The function f2x(k) is the S / N ratio corresponding to the variable k. In the example of FIG. 31B, when the variable k=1, the function f1 ｘ The value of (h) is 5.

[0237] Next, the information processing device 10 performs a hearing test using the second mode i-j sound source and the S / N ratio x (step S604). For example, the information processing device 10 presents one second mode sound source (the second mode i-j sound source) to the subject at the S / N ratio x and obtains a response from the subject. The subject may be, for example, a patient and / or a customer who complains of hearing difficulties. In the example of FIG. 31B, the speech level is fixed at 55 dB. Therefore, when the S / N ratio x is 5, the noise level is 50 dB (= 55 dB - 5 dB).

[0238] Next, the information processing device 10 adds 1 to the variable k (step S605), and then returns the process to step S601.

[0239] <3-7. Test Result Display Processing> Next, the test result display processing will be described.

[0240] The test result display process is a process for displaying the results of a hearing test in the first mode and / or the second mode. In the following description, the test result display process includes a process for conducting a hearing test in the first mode and / or the second mode (hereinafter, this part will be referred to as the test process). However, the test result display process does not necessarily include the test process. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 can also execute only the test process of the test result display process. In this case, the test result display process described below can be referred to as the test process.

[0241] The test result display process may be executed by one information processing device 10, or may be executed by a plurality of information processing devices 10 in cooperation with each other. When a plurality of information processing devices 10 execute the test result display process in cooperation with each other, the term "information processing device" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" as appropriate. Ｎ " or "information processing system 1." Here, N is an arbitrary integer. For example, if two information processing devices 10 cooperate to execute the test result display process, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" １ ", "information processing device 10 ２ " or "information processing system 1."

[0242] The information processing device 10 that executes the inspection result display process may be the same device as the information processing device 10 that executes the aforementioned and / or later-described processes (e.g., at least one of the sound source generation process, the first mode inspection process, and the second mode inspection process), or it may be a different device.

[0243] A part or all of the processes (e.g., a part or all of the steps) of the test result display process may be performed by a person (e.g., an examiner / viewer). In this case, the person performing the test result display process may use the information processing device 10 to perform a part or all of the processes of the sound source generation process.

[0244] In the test result display process, the information processing device 10 may display the test results on a display provided by another device, or may display the test results on a display provided by itself (for example, a display unit provided by the output unit 15).

[0245] <3-7-1. Display Examples of Test Results> Before describing the flow of the test result display process, a display example of the hearing test results will be described.

[0246] 33A and 33B are diagrams showing examples of displaying test results. Specifically, Fig. 33A is a display example of the test results in the second mode (second test results), and Fig. 33B is an example in which the test results in the first mode (first test results) and the test results in the second mode (second test results) are displayed so as to be comparable.

[0247] Figure 33A shows eight test results in the second mode. The test results in the second mode shown in Figure 33A correspond to SRT-50. In the example of Figure 33A, the subject underwent tests in the second mode from 2015 to 2023. In 2023, the test results suddenly worsened, and the subject is advised to undergo tests in the first mode.

[0248] In FIG. 33B , the first mode test results and the second mode test results are displayed simultaneously. Specifically, in FIG. 33B , the first mode test results and the two most recent second mode test results are displayed simultaneously. The circles connected by a solid line represent the first mode test results, and the squares represent the second mode test results. In the example of FIG. 33B , of the second mode test results shown in FIG. 33A , the most recent test result is displayed in black, and the previous test result is displayed in white. Note that the test results may be displayed in the same color. By simultaneously displaying the first mode and second mode results as in FIG. 33B , it becomes possible to read the changes in the test results over time.

[0249] The information processing device 10 does not necessarily have to display the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) on the same graph. The information processing device 10 may display the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) side by side.

[0250] In this case, the information processing device 10 may display a graph of the test results of one mode that does not include the test results of the other mode side by side with a graph of the test results of the other mode that does not include the test results of the other mode. For example, the information processing device 10 may display a graph of the test results of the first mode excluding the results of the second mode from Fig. 33B side by side with a graph of the test results of the second mode shown in Fig. 33A.

[0251] Of course, the information processing device 10 may display a graph of the test results in one mode that includes the test results in the other mode and a graph of the test results in the other mode that does not include the test results in the other mode side by side. For example, the information processing device 10 may display a graph of the test results in the first mode that includes the test results in the second mode shown in FIG. 33B (e.g., the graph shown in FIG. 33B ) side by side with a graph of the test results in the second mode (e.g., the graph shown in FIG. 33A ).

[0252] A display in which the test results of the first mode (first test result) and the test results of the second mode (second test result) are displayed side by side can also be considered a type of display that enables comparison of the test results of the first mode (first test result) and the test results of the second mode (second test result). By displaying the test results of the first mode and the test results of the second mode side by side, it becomes easier to understand how the subject's symptoms are changing.

[0253] In the example of FIG. 33B , the second mode test results displayed are the two most recent test results. However, the second mode test results displayed simultaneously with the first mode test results are not limited to the two most recent test results. The second mode test results displayed may be any one or more test results. For example, the second mode test results displayed simultaneously with the first mode test results may be test results from five and ten years ago, or all past test results. The second mode test results displayed simultaneously with the first mode test results may be one or more test results.

[0254] (Display Example 2) Figures 34A and 34B are diagrams showing other display examples of test results. Specifically, Figure 34A is a display example of the test results in the second mode (second test results), and Figure 34B is an example in which the test results in the first mode (first test results) and the test results in the second mode (second test results) are displayed so that they can be compared. In the examples of Figures 34A and 34B, the test results are shown as accuracy rates.

[0255] Figure 34A displays the test results for nine second mode tests. The second mode test results shown in Figure 34A correspond to the accuracy rate. In the example of Figure 34A, the subject took tests in the second mode from 2015 to 2023. In the example of Figure 34A, tests were conducted at S / N ratios of +5 dB and 0 dB in each year. The upper line in Figure 34A represents the test results at +5 dB, and the lower line represents the test results at 0 dB. In 2023, the test results suddenly worsen, and the subject is advised to take the first mode test.

[0256] FIG. 34B simultaneously displays the first-mode test results and the second-mode test results. Specifically, FIG. 34B simultaneously displays the first-mode test results and the two most recent second-mode test results. Circles connected by a solid line represent first-mode test results, and squares represent second-mode test results. In the example of FIG. 34B, of the second-mode test results shown in FIG. 34A, the most recent test result is displayed in black, and the previous test result is displayed in white. Note that the display color of the test results may be the same. At 0 dB and +5 dB, the first-mode test results and the second-mode test results overlap. By simultaneously displaying the first-mode and second-mode results as in FIG. 34B, it becomes possible to read the changes in the test results over time.

[0257] The information processing device 10 does not necessarily have to display the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) on the same graph. The information processing device 10 may display the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) side by side.

[0258] In this case, the information processing device 10 may display a graph of the test results of one mode that does not include the test results of the other mode side by side with a graph of the test results of the other mode that does not include the test results of the other mode. For example, the information processing device 10 may display a graph of the test results of the first mode excluding the results of the second mode from Fig. 34B side by side with a graph of the test results of the second mode shown in Fig. 34A.

[0259] Of course, the information processing device 10 may display a graph of the test results in one mode that includes the test results in the other mode and a graph of the test results in the other mode that does not include the test results in the other mode side by side. For example, the information processing device 10 may display a graph of the test results in the first mode that includes the test results in the second mode shown in FIG. 34B (e.g., the graph shown in FIG. 34B ) side by side with a graph of the test results in the second mode (e.g., the graph shown in FIG. 34A ).

[0260] A display in which the test results of the first mode (first test result) and the test results of the second mode (second test result) are displayed side by side can also be considered a type of display that enables comparison of the test results of the first mode (first test result) and the test results of the second mode (second test result). By displaying the test results of the first mode and the test results of the second mode side by side, it becomes easier to understand how the subject's symptoms are changing.

[0261] In the example of FIG. 34B , the second mode test results displayed are the two most recent test results. However, the second mode test results displayed simultaneously with the first mode test results are not limited to the two most recent test results. The second mode test results displayed may be any one or more test results. For example, the second mode test results displayed simultaneously with the first mode test results may be test results from five and ten years ago, or all past test results. The second mode test results displayed simultaneously with the first mode test results may be one or more test results.

[0262] Two specific examples (first and second examples) of the test result display process will be described below.

[0263] <3-7-2. First Example of Test Result Display Processing> First, a first example of the test result display processing will be described.

[0264] FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing a test result display process (first example) according to Example 1. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 35 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 35 can be performed independently. The test result display process is executed, for example, by the control unit 13 (e.g., the display control unit 132, the first test control unit 133, or the second test control unit 134) of the information processing device 10. Hereinafter, the test result display process according to the first example will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 35.

[0265] First, the information processing device 10 determines the inspection mode designated by the inspector (step S701).

[0266] When the inspection mode designated by the inspector is the first mode (step S701: first mode), the information processing device 10 executes processing related to the inspection in the first mode (step S702). The processing executed by the information processing device 10 in step S702 may be the first mode inspection processing shown in FIG.

[0267] If the inspection mode designated by the inspector is the second mode (step S701: second mode), the information processing device 10 executes processing related to the inspection in the second mode (step S703). The processing executed by the information processing device 10 in step S703 may be the second mode inspection processing shown in FIG. 28, FIG. 30, or FIG. 32.

[0268] After the first mode or second mode test is performed, the information processing device 10 records information about the test (e.g., test results and / or test conditions) in the storage unit 12 (step S704). The information processing device 10 may cause another device (e.g., another information processing device 10) to store the information about the test via a network.

[0269] The inspection result display process does not necessarily have to include the inspection process shown in steps S701 to S704.

[0270] Next, the information processing device 10 determines whether or not to include test results of other modes in the display of the test results (step S705). The information processing device 10 may determine whether or not to include results of other modes in the display of the test results based on instructions from the examiner. Test results of other modes refer to test results of the second mode if the current test results (e.g., the results of the tests performed in steps S701 to S704) are test results of the first mode, and refer to test results of the first mode if the current test results are test results of the second mode.

[0271] If the display of the test results includes test results of other modes (step S705: Yes), the information processing device 10 acquires the current test results and / or test results of other modes from the storage unit 12. The information processing device 10 may acquire the current test results and / or test results of other modes from another device (e.g., another information processing device 10). The information processing device 10 then displays the current test results and the test results of other modes together on the display device (step S706). That is, the information processing device 10 displays the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) so that they can be compared. The display performed by the information processing device 10 in step S706 may be the display shown in FIG. 33B or 34B.

[0272] If the display of the test results does not include test results of other modes (step S705: No), the information processing device 10 acquires the current test results from the storage unit 12. The information processing device 10 may acquire the current test results from another device (e.g., another information processing device 10). Then, the information processing device 10 displays the current test results on the display device (step S707). If the current test mode is the first mode, the display performed by the information processing device 10 in step S707 may be a display obtained by removing the display of the second mode test results (square marks) from the display shown in FIG. 33B or FIG. 34B. Furthermore, if the current test mode is the second mode, the display performed by the information processing device 10 in step S707 may be a display shown in FIG. 33A or FIG. 34A.

[0273] When the display is completed, the information processing device 10 ends the test result display process.

[0274] <3-7-3. Second Example of Examination Result Display Processing> Next, a second example of the second mode examination processing will be described.

[0275] FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a test result display process (second example) according to Example 1. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 36 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 36 can be performed independently. The test result display process is executed, for example, by the control unit 13 (e.g., the display control unit 132, the first test control unit 133, or the second test control unit 134) of the information processing device 10. Hereinafter, the test result display process according to the first example will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 36.

[0276] First, the information processing device 10 determines the inspection mode designated by the inspector (step S801).

[0277] When the inspection mode designated by the inspector is the first mode (step S801: first mode), the information processing device 10 executes processing related to the inspection in the first mode (step S802). The processing executed by the information processing device 10 in step S802 may be the first mode inspection processing shown in FIG. 26 .

[0278] If the inspection mode designated by the inspector is the second mode (step S801: second mode), the information processing device 10 executes processing related to the inspection in the second mode (step S803). The processing executed by the information processing device 10 in step S703 may be the second mode inspection processing shown in FIG. 28, FIG. 30, or FIG. 32.

[0279] After the test in step S803 is performed, the information processing device 10 determines whether or not there is a problem with the test results in the second mode (step S804). A problem refers, for example, to a significantly low score. For example, in the case of a subject whose maximum speech intelligibility is significantly low at 10%, the test results in the second mode alone are unlikely to provide useful information. A problem also refers, for example, to a current test result being significantly lower than the previous test result. For example, if the score is 20% or more lower than the previous test result, it is considered that some abnormality has occurred. Therefore, the test results in the first mode are required. Note that the tester may determine whether or not there is a problem with the test results in the second mode in the information processing device 10. In this case, the information processing device 10 may determine whether or not there is a problem with the test results in the second mode based on input from the tester. Of course, the information processing device 10 may also determine whether or not there is a problem with the test results in the second mode based on the test results in the second mode.

[0280] If there is no problem with the test results in the second mode (step S804: No), the information processing device 10 proceeds to step S805. If there is a problem with the test results in the second mode (step S804: Yes), the information processing device 10 executes processing related to the test in the first mode (step S802). Note that before proceeding to step S802, the information processing device 10 may ask the examiner whether or not to proceed to the test in the first mode.

[0281] After the test is performed, the information processing device 10 records information about the test (e.g., test results and / or test conditions) in the storage unit 12 (step S805). The information processing device 10 may cause another device (e.g., another information processing device 10) to store the information about the test via a network.

[0282] The inspection result display process does not necessarily have to include the inspection process shown in steps S801 to S805.

[0283] Next, the information processing device 10 determines whether to simultaneously display the test results in the first mode and the second mode (step S806). The information processing device 10 may determine whether to simultaneously display the test results in the first mode and the second mode based on an instruction from the examiner.

[0284] When the first mode test result and the second mode test result are to be displayed simultaneously (step S806: Yes), the information processing device 10 acquires the first mode test result and the second mode test result from the storage unit 12. The information processing device 10 may acquire the first mode test result and the second mode test result from another device (e.g., another information processing device 10). Then, the information processing device 10 displays the first mode test result and the second mode test result together on the display device (step S807). That is, the information processing device 10 displays the first mode test result (first test result) and the second mode test result (second test result) so that they can be compared. The display performed by the information processing device 10 in step S807 may be the display shown in FIG. 33B or 34B.

[0285] If the first-mode test results and the second-mode test results are not displayed simultaneously (step S806: No), the information processing device 10 acquires either the first-mode or second-mode test results from the storage unit 12. The information processing device 10 may acquire the test results from another device (e.g., another information processing device 10). At this time, the information processing device 10 may determine the test results to acquire based on instructions from the examiner. The information processing device 10 then displays the acquired test results on the display device (step S808). If the acquired test results are first-mode test results, the display performed by the information processing device 10 in step S808 may be the display shown in FIG. 33B or FIG. 34B , excluding the display of the second-mode test results (square marks). Furthermore, if the acquired test results are second-mode test results, the display performed by the information processing device 10 in step S808 may be the display shown in FIG. 33A or FIG. 34A .

[0286] When the display is completed, the information processing device 10 ends the test result display process.

[0287] <<4. Second Embodiment>> Next, the operation of the information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0288] The information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment executes at least one of an inspection process and an inspection result display process. In addition to these processes, the information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment may execute at least one of the processes described in the first embodiment (e.g., a sound source generation process, a first mode inspection process, a second mode inspection process, and an inspection result display process).

[0289] At least one of these processes (for example, the test process and the test result display process) may be executed by a single information processing device 10. Of course, a single information processing device 10 may execute all of these processes. When a single information processing device executes the processes, the description of "information processing system 1" described above or below can be replaced with "information processing device 10."

[0290] Furthermore, at least one of these processes (for example, the inspection process, the inspection result display process, and the first mode inspection process) may be performed cooperatively by multiple information processing devices 10. When multiple information processing devices perform a process cooperatively, the description of "information processing device 10" described above or below can be replaced with "information processing system 1."

[0291] Note that the test modes (e.g., first mode and second mode), test sound sources (e.g., first mode sound source and second mode sound source), and sound source selection methods (e.g., second mode sound source selection methods) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0292] <4-1. Example of Functional Configuration of Information Processing System According to Second Embodiment> Before describing the operation of the information processing system 1, an example of the functional configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0293] Fig. 37 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an information processing system 1 according to Example 2. The information processing system 1 according to Example 2 includes a plurality of devices. In the example of Fig. 37, the information processing system 1 includes at least a server and a data viewing terminal. The server and the data viewing terminal each correspond to one or more of the information processing devices 10 illustrated in Fig. 11 .

[0294] 37 , the information processing system 1 includes a test control unit, a first mode test implementation unit, a second mode test implementation unit, a test sound output unit, a storage unit, a first mode sound source storage unit, a second mode sound source storage unit, a first display unit, a first input unit, a second display unit, a second input unit, and a communication unit.

[0295] The test control unit corresponds to the control unit 13 of the information processing device 10. The first mode test implementation unit corresponds to the first test control unit 133 of the information processing device 10. The second mode test implementation unit corresponds to the second test control unit 134 of the information processing device 10. The test sound output unit corresponds to the output unit 15 and / or the output control unit 137 of the information processing device 10. The storage unit, the first mode sound source storage unit, and the second mode sound source storage unit correspond to the storage unit 12 of the information processing device 10. The first display unit and the second display unit correspond to the output unit 15 and / or the display control unit 132 of the information processing device 10. The first input unit and the second input unit correspond to the input unit 14 and / or the acquisition unit 131 of the information processing device 10. The communication unit corresponds to the communication unit 11 and / or the communication control unit 138 of the information processing device 10.

[0296] The server, the data viewing terminal, and the communication unit are connected via a network, which corresponds to the network N shown in FIG.

[0297] Each function (from the test control unit to the communication unit) shown in FIG. 37 may be realized by one information processing device 10, or may be realized by a plurality of information processing devices 10 working together.

[0298] The first-mode sound source storage unit stores a first-mode test sound source (hereinafter also referred to as a first-mode sound source). A server on a network may store the first-mode test sound source. The first-mode sound source includes a plurality of test sounds (hereinafter also referred to as a first-mode test sound).

[0299] When the examiner performs the test in the first mode, the test control unit acquires the first mode sound source from the first mode sound source storage unit. The test control unit may acquire the first mode sound source from a server on the network. The test control unit transmits the first mode sound source to the first mode test execution unit.

[0300] The first mode test execution unit executes the test according to the test flow, and then transmits the first mode test sound to the test sound output unit.

[0301] The test sound output unit transmits the test sound to the subject. The test sound output unit may be a device that transmits the test sound to the subject (e.g., the output unit 15), or may be a device that controls the output of the device that transmits the test sound to the subject (e.g., the output control unit 137).

[0302] The device that transmits the test sound to the subject (hereinafter also referred to as the output device) may be a speaker, headphones, earphones, a sound collector, a hearing aid, or a cochlear implant. Various other devices that can output sound can also be used as the output device. The output device may be a device separate from the information processing device 10 that includes the test implementation unit (first mode test implementation unit and / or second mode test implementation unit). Of course, the output device may be considered as part of the information processing device 10. The connection between the information processing device 10 and the output device may be wired or wireless.

[0303] The second display unit provides visual information to the subject according to the progress of the examination.

[0304] The examiner / subject uses the first input unit to operate the test. The examiner / subject also uses the first input unit to input the subject's answers. The subject's answers may be input at any time during the test or all at once after the test. The subject's answers may also be input using the second input unit.

[0305] The device for operating the test and / or inputting the subject's answers (hereinafter also referred to as the input device) may be a touchpad, a keyboard, a button, a microphone, or a camera. Various other devices capable of inputting information may also be used as the input device. The input device may be a device separate from the information processing device 10 that includes the test implementation unit (first mode test implementation unit and / or second mode test implementation unit). Of course, the input device may be considered as part of the information processing device 10. The connection between the information processing device 10 and the input device may be wired or wireless.

[0306] The first display unit displays the progress of the test, etc. For example, if the subject's answers are input at any time, the first display unit may display black circles and lines connecting them as shown in FIG.

[0307] The storage unit stores the test results. The test results may be stored by a server on the network. In this case, the test control unit may transmit the test results to the server on the network via the communication unit. The test results may include at least one of test sound source information, the subject's answers, and test sound presentation conditions in addition to the final score. An example of the test results in the first mode is the information shown in FIG. 25B.

[0308] When the examiner performs the test in the second mode, the test control unit acquires the second-mode sound source from the second-mode sound source storage unit. The test control unit may acquire the second-mode sound source from a server on the network. The test control unit transmits the second-mode sound source to the second-mode test execution unit.

[0309] The second-mode test execution unit executes the test according to the test flow, and then transmits the second-mode test sound to the test sound output unit.

[0310] The test sound output unit transmits the test sound to the subject. The test sound output unit may be a device that transmits the test sound to the subject (e.g., the output unit 15), or may be a device that controls the output of the device that transmits the test sound to the subject (e.g., the output control unit 137). The device that transmits the test sound to the subject (output device) may be the same device as the output device used in the first mode.

[0311] The second display unit provides visual information to the subject according to the progress of the examination.

[0312] The examiner / subject uses the first input unit to operate the test. The examiner / subject also uses the first input unit to input the subject's answers. The subject's answers may be input at any time during the test or all at once after the test. Whether the answers are input at any time or all at once depends on the method of the second mode. The subject's answers may also be input using the second input unit.

[0313] The device for operating the test and / or inputting the subject's answers (hereinafter also referred to as the input device) may be the same as the input device used in the first mode.

[0314] The first display unit displays the progress of the test, etc. For example, if the subject's answers are input at any time, the first display unit may display a broken line as shown in Fig. 6 according to the progress of the test. After the test is completed, the first display unit may display a black square as shown in Fig. 13.

[0315] The storage unit stores the test results. The test results may be stored by a server on the network. In this case, the test control unit may transmit the test results to the server on the network via the communication unit. The test results may include at least one of test sound source information, the subject's answers, and test sound presentation conditions in addition to the final score. Examples of the test results include the information shown in FIG. 27B, FIG. 29B, or FIG. 31B.

[0316] Using a server on a network to record test results enables data sharing between facilities. For example, suppose a subject regularly undergoes second-mode tests at a first facility. Due to worsening test results, the subject is referred to a second facility by someone at the first facility, where the subject undergoes first-mode tests. In this case, if the system / device at the second facility can access the server used to record tests at the first facility, the person at the second facility can view multiple past second-mode results, along with the first-mode results. This allows for a more accurate understanding of the patient's condition.

[0317] By using a server on the network to record the test results, it is possible to use the test results of the second mode at other facilities and shorten the time required for the first mode test.

[0318] The data viewing terminal can access the server on the network and view the test results. The data viewing terminal is, for example, a terminal in a medical facility. The data viewing terminal may also be a mobile terminal owned by the patient.

[0319] Based on the above, the operation of the information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described.

[0320] <4-2. Inspection Processing> First, the inspection processing will be described.

[0321] The test process is a process related to the implementation of a hearing test in the first mode and / or the second mode. The test process may be executed by one information processing device 10, or may be executed by a plurality of information processing devices 10 in cooperation with each other. When a plurality of information processing devices 10 execute the test process in cooperation with each other, the term "information processing device" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" Ｎ " or "information processing system 1." Here, N is an arbitrary integer. For example, if two information processing devices 10 cooperate to execute the inspection process, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" １ ", "information processing device 10 ２ " or "information processing system 1."

[0322] The information processing device 10 that performs the inspection process may be the same device as the information processing device 10 that performs the aforementioned and / or later-described processes (e.g., at least one of the sound source generation process, the first mode inspection process, the second mode inspection process, and the inspection result display process), or it may be a different device.

[0323] A part or all of the inspection process (e.g., a part or all of the steps) may be performed by a person (e.g., an inspector). In this case, the inspector may use the information processing device 10 to perform a part or all of the sound source generation process.

[0324] FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an inspection process according to Example 2. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 38 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 38 can be performed independently. The inspection result display process is executed, for example, by the control unit 13 (e.g., the first inspection control unit 133 and / or the second inspection control unit 134) of the information processing device 10. Hereinafter, the inspection result display process according to the first example will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 38.

[0325] First, the information processing device 10 executes processing related to an examination in the first mode and / or the second mode (step S901). Note that it is sufficient for one facility to support either the first mode or the second mode. Therefore, the information processing device 10 may execute processing related to either the first mode or the second mode, or may execute processing related to both the first mode and the second mode.

[0326] Here, the processing of step S901 may be the same as the first mode inspection processing of embodiment 1, or may be the same as the second mode inspection processing of embodiment 1. Furthermore, the processing of step S901 may be the same as the processing of steps S701 to S704 of the inspection result display processing (first example) of embodiment 1, or may be the same as the processing of steps S801 to S805 of the inspection result display processing (second example) of embodiment 1.

[0327] Next, the information processing device 10 records information about the test (for example, test results and / or test conditions) in a server on the network (step S902).

[0328] When the recording is completed, the information processing device 10 ends the inspection process.

[0329] <4-3. Test Result Display Processing> Next, the test result display processing will be described.

[0330] The test result display process is a process for displaying the results of the hearing test in the first mode and / or the second mode. In the following description, the test result display process is assumed to include the test process, but the test result display process does not necessarily have to include the test process.

[0331] The test result display process may be executed by one information processing device 10, or may be executed by a plurality of information processing devices 10 in cooperation with each other. When a plurality of information processing devices 10 execute the test result display process in cooperation with each other, the term "information processing device" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" as appropriate. Ｎ " or "information processing system 1." Here, N is an arbitrary integer. For example, if two information processing devices 10 cooperate to execute the test result display process, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" １ ", "information processing device 10 ２ " or "information processing system 1."

[0332] The information processing device 10 that executes the inspection result display process may be the same device as the information processing device 10 that executes the aforementioned and / or later-described processes (e.g., at least one of the sound source generation process, the first mode inspection process, the second mode inspection process, and the inspection process), or it may be a different device.

[0333] A part or all of the processes (e.g., a part or all of the steps) of the test result display process may be performed by a person (e.g., an examiner / viewer). In this case, the person performing the test result display process may use the information processing device 10 to perform a part or all of the processes of the sound source generation process.

[0334] In the test result display process, the information processing device 10 may display the test results on a display provided by another device, or may display the test results on a display provided by itself (for example, a display unit provided by the output unit 15).

[0335] FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the test result display process according to Example 2. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 39 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 39 can be performed independently. The test result display process is executed, for example, by the control unit 13 (e.g., the display control unit 132, the first test control unit 133, or the second test control unit 134) of the information processing device 10. Hereinafter, the test result display process according to Example 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 39.

[0336] First, the information processing device 10 executes processing related to an examination in the first mode and / or the second mode (step S1001). Note that it is sufficient for one facility to support either the first mode or the second mode. Therefore, the information processing device 10 may execute processing related to either the first mode or the second mode, or may execute processing related to both the first mode and the second mode.

[0337] Here, the processing of step S1001 may be the same as the first mode inspection processing of embodiment 1, or may be the same as the second mode inspection processing of embodiment 1. Furthermore, the processing of step S1001 may be the same as the processing of steps S701 to S704 of the inspection result display processing (first example) of embodiment 1, or may be the same as the processing of steps S801 to S805 of the inspection result display processing (second example) of embodiment 1.

[0338] Next, the information processing device 10 records information about the test (for example, test results and / or test conditions) in a storage unit and / or a server on the network (step S1002).

[0339] The inspection result display process does not necessarily have to include the inspection process shown in steps S1001 and S1002.

[0340] Next, the information processing device 10 determines whether to include other test results in the display of the test results (step S1003). The information processing device 10 may determine whether to include other test results in the display of the test results based on instructions from the examiner. The other test results may be, for example, test results in other modes. For example, if the current test results (e.g., the results of the test performed in steps S901 and S902) are test results in the first mode, the other test results may be test results in the second mode. If the current test results are test results in the second mode, the other test results refer to test results in the first mode. Note that if the current test results are test results in the first mode and the second mode, the other test results may be past test results in the first mode and / or the second mode.

[0341] If other test results (e.g., test results in other modes) are to be included in the display of the test results (step S1003: Yes), the information processing device 10 acquires the current test results and / or other test results from the storage unit 12 and / or a server on the network (step S1004).The information processing device 10 then displays the current test results and other test results together on the display device (step S1005).That is, the information processing device 10 displays the test results in the first mode (first test results) and the test results in the second mode (second test results) so that they can be compared.

[0342] Figure 40 is a diagram showing an example in which the test results of the first mode and the test results of the second mode are displayed so that they can be compared. The test results shown in Figure 40 correspond to SRT-50. In Figure 40, the information processing device 10 displays the results of the second mode in chronological order, with the values ​​for 2022 being approximate values ​​based on the test results of the first mode. In the example of Figure 40, the approximate values ​​based on the test results of the first mode are represented by black circles to distinguish them from the test results of the second mode, which are represented by black squares.

[0343] If the display of the test results does not include other test results (e.g., test results of other modes) (step S1003: No), the information processing device 10 acquires the current test results from the storage unit 12 and / or a server on the network. Then, the information processing device 10 displays the current test results on the display device (step 1006).

[0344] When the display is completed, the information processing device 10 ends the test result display process.

[0345] <<5. Third Embodiment>> Next, the operation of the information processing system 1 according to the third embodiment will be described.

[0346] The information processing system 1 according to the third embodiment executes the first mode inspection process. The information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment may execute at least one of the processes (e.g., the sound source generation process, the inspection process, the first mode inspection process, the second mode inspection process, and the inspection result display process) shown in the first and second embodiments in addition to the first mode inspection process.

[0347] The first mode inspection process according to the third embodiment may be executed by one information processing device 10. When one information processing device executes the process, the description of the "information processing system 1" described above or below can be replaced with the "information processing device 10."

[0348] Furthermore, the first mode inspection process according to Example 3 may be performed in cooperation with a plurality of information processing devices 10. When a plurality of information processing devices perform the process in cooperation with each other, the description of "information processing device 10" described above or below can be replaced with "information processing system 1."

[0349] Note that the test modes (e.g., first mode and second mode), test sound sources (e.g., first mode sound source and second mode sound source), and sound source selection methods (e.g., second mode sound source selection methods) are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0350] <5-1. First Mode Inspection Processing> The first mode inspection processing according to the third embodiment will be described below.

[0351] The first mode test process is a process for the first mode hearing test. In the third embodiment, the first mode test is shortened in time by utilizing the test results of the second mode.

[0352] The first mode inspection process may be executed by one information processing device 10, or may be executed by a plurality of information processing devices 10 in cooperation with each other. When a plurality of information processing devices 10 execute the first mode inspection process in cooperation with each other, the term "information processing device" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" Ｎ " or "information processing system 1." Here, N is an arbitrary integer. For example, if two information processing devices 10 cooperate to execute the first mode inspection process, the description of "information processing device 10" below may be appropriately changed to "information processing device 10" １ ", "information processing device 10 ２ " or "information processing system 1."

[0353] The information processing device 10 that performs the first mode inspection process may be the same device as the information processing device 10 that performs the aforementioned and / or later-described processes (e.g., at least one of the sound source generation process, the second mode inspection process, and the inspection result display process), or it may be a different device.

[0354] A part or all of the processes (e.g., a part or all of the steps) of the test result display process may be performed by a person (e.g., an examiner / viewer). In this case, the person performing the test result display process may use the information processing device 10 to perform a part or all of the processes of the sound source generation process.

[0355] In Example 3, the test results of the second mode are utilized. For example, the information processing device 10 determines the test content of the hearing test in the first mode based on a plurality of past test results of the second mode. Then, the information processing device 10 performs processing related to the first hearing test based on the results of the determination of the test content. As a result, the information processing device 10 shortens the time required for the test in the first mode.

[0356] 41A and 41B are diagrams for explaining the first mode inspection process according to Example 3. Fig. 41A is a graph showing the inspection results of the second mode, and Fig. 41B is a graph showing the inspection results of the second mode superimposed on the inspection results of the first mode. Circles connected by a solid line represent the inspection results of the first mode, and squares represent the inspection results of the second mode. In the example of Fig. 41B, of the inspection results of the second mode, the latest inspection result is displayed in black, and the immediately previous inspection result is displayed in white.

[0357] The test results for the second mode shown in Figure 41A show that the subject's SRT-50 is stable at an S / N ratio of approximately -2 dB. When this subject undergoes the first mode test, as shown in Figure 41B, the accuracy rate tends to continue to reach 100% at high S / N ratios. In the example of Figure 41B, the accuracy rate is 100% at S / N ratios of +5 dB, +10 dB, and +15 dB. Speech audiometry tests are typically conducted under conditions that make it easy to hear. This is to avoid the tendency for stress and reduced concentration to build up when the test is conducted under difficult conditions.

[0358] In the example of FIG. 41B, after the S / N ratio is +15 dB, +10 dB, and +5 dB, it finally becomes less than 100% at 0 dB. The test result of the S / N ratio +15 dB is not useless, but it is unlikely that it will provide valuable information worth spending time on the test. In the examples of FIGS. 41A and 41B, the test result of the second mode is known before the test of the first mode is performed. Therefore, the S / N ratio of +15 dB can be skipped in the test of the first mode. Even if the S / N ratio of +15 dB is skipped, the amount of information obtained as the test result of the first mode remains almost the same.

[0359] Therefore, in the first mode inspection process according to the third embodiment, the inspection time in the first mode is shortened by utilizing the inspection results in the second mode.

[0360] FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing a first mode inspection process according to Example 3. Note that not all of the processes shown in FIG. 42 are necessarily required processes for this embodiment. In other words, each process (e.g., step) shown in FIG. 42 can be performed independently. The first mode inspection process is executed by, for example, the control unit 13 (e.g., the first inspection control unit 133) of the information processing device 10.

[0361] In the process described below, it is assumed that the second mode inspection results are already available. The second mode inspection results may be stored in the storage unit 12 of the information processing device 10 that executes the first mode inspection process, or may be recorded on a server on the network. The first mode inspection process will be described below with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 42.

[0362] First, the information processing device 10 sets the second mode test result to a variable s2. ｍａｘ function f1 ｈｍａｘ (s2) is substituted (step S1101). ｈｍａｘ (s2) defines the maximum value of the variable h based on the variable s2. In the example of FIGS. 41A and 41B, assuming that the SNR is skipped by +15 dB, the function f1 ｈｍａｘ The value of (s2) is 4. Specifically, there are four SN ratios: +10 dB, +5 dB, 0 dB, and −5 dB.

[0363] Next, the information processing apparatus 10 sets 1 to a variable h that indicates the order of the first mode sound source (list) unit (step S1102).

[0364] Then, the information processing device 10 determines whether the variable h is h ｍａｘ It is determined whether the value is equal to or less than the value (step S1103). ｍａｘ is the number of first mode sound sources (lists) used in the first mode. ｍａｘ If it is greater (step S1103: No), the information processing apparatus 10 ends the first mode inspection process.

[0365] The variable h is h ｍａｘ In the following case (step S1103: Yes), the information processing apparatus 10 applies the function f1 to the variable i. ｉ(h) value, variable x, function f1 ｘ The values ​​of (h, s2) are substituted (step S1104). ｉ The value of (h) is the first mode sound source number (list number) corresponding to the variable h. ｘ The value of (h, s2) is the SN ratio corresponding to the variable h and depends on the test result of the second mode test. In the example of FIGS. 41A and 41B, if we assume that the SN ratio is skipped by +15 dB, when the variable h=1, the function f1 ｘ The value of (h, s2) is 10.

[0366] This function f1 ｘ Execution of the function f1x(h, s2) corresponds to determination of the test content of the first mode hearing test based on multiple past test results of the second mode. The execution of this function f1x(h, s2) may be performed by the determination unit 135 of the information processing device 10.

[0367] Next, the information processing device 10 performs a hearing test using the first mode i-th sound source and the S / N ratio x (step S1105). For example, the information processing device 10 presents one list of sound sources (the first mode i-th sound source) to the test subject at the S / N ratio x, and obtains a response from the test subject. The test subject may be, for example, a patient and / or a customer who complains of hearing difficulties.

[0368] The process of step S1105 corresponds to the process related to the hearing test of the first mode based on the determination result (e.g., the S / N ratio x) in step S1103. The process of step S1105 may be performed by the first test control unit 133 of the information processing device 10.

[0369] Next, the information processing apparatus 10 adds 1 to the variable h (step S1106), and then returns the process to step S1101.

[0370] <<6. Modifications>> The above-described embodiment is merely an example, and various modifications and applications are possible.

[0371] 6-1. Modifications of the Implementation of the Test In the above-described embodiments (e.g., Examples 1 to 3), an example was shown in which a subject undergoes a hearing test in a facility (e.g., a medical facility, a hearing aid store, or a research facility). However, this embodiment is not limited to an example in which a subject undergoes a hearing test in a facility. For example, a subject may undergo a hearing test of this embodiment from a location away from the facility (e.g., their home or office) via a network such as the Internet. Hereinafter, a modification (first modification) of the implementation of the test will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0372] Fig. 43 is a diagram showing a configuration example of an information processing system 1 according to a first modified example. The information processing system 1 according to the first modified example includes a plurality of devices. In the example of Fig. 43, the information processing system 1 includes at least a server, an examiner-operated terminal, a subject-operated terminal, and an output device.

[0373] The server is a network server device that stores test sound sources, controls the implementation of the test, and records the subject's answers. The examiner-operated terminal is a terminal device used by the examiner. The subject-operated terminal is a terminal device used by the subject. The output device is an acoustic device that is connected to the subject-operated terminal and transmits test sounds to the subject.

[0374] The server, the examiner-operated terminal, the subject-operated terminal, and the output device each correspond to one or more of the information processing devices 10 among the multiple information processing devices 10 shown in Fig. 11. The subject-operated terminal and the output device may be regarded as one information processing device 10. In other words, the output device may be regarded as one of the output units (output unit 15) of the subject-operated terminal.

[0375] The server, the examiner-operated terminal, and the subject-operated terminal are connected via a network. The network corresponds to the network N shown in Fig. 11. The subject-operated terminal and the output device are connected via a wired or wireless connection.

[0376] The multiple devices constituting the information processing system 1 according to the first modification each share functions related to the hearing test. For example, the examiner-operated terminal functions as at least one of the first display unit and the first input unit shown in FIG. 14 or 37. The subject-operated terminal functions as at least one of the second display unit and the second input unit shown in FIG. 37. The output device functions as, for example, the test sound output unit shown in FIG. 14 or 37. The subject-operated terminal may also function as the test sound output unit shown in FIG. 14 or 37.

[0377] Other functions required for carrying out the test are handled by a server on the network. For example, the server functions as at least one of the test control unit, first mode test execution unit, second mode test execution unit, memory unit, first mode sound source memory unit, and second mode sound source memory unit shown in Fig. 14 or Fig. 37 .

[0378] The server transmits test sounds of the first mode sound source or the second mode sound source to the subject-operated terminal. The subject-operated terminal outputs the test sounds received from the server to an output device. The server may also transmit the test sounds to the subject-operated terminal to the examiner-operated terminal. This allows the examiner to check the test sounds during the test.

[0379] In addition, when the hearing test to be performed is a speech audiometry test in noise, the information processing system 1 may be configured to allow the tester to select from two types of test sounds the test sound to be transmitted to the tester-operated terminal. For example, the server may transmit one of two types of test sounds to the tester-operated terminal based on an instruction from the tester via the tester-operated terminal. In this case, one of the two types of test sounds is the same test sound as the test sound heard by the test subject (i.e., a test sound in which noise and speech sounds are mixed), and the other is a test sound in which the noise is removed from the test sound heard by the test subject (i.e., a test sound consisting only of speech sounds without noise). Of course, the server may transmit both types of test sounds to the tester-operated terminal based on an instruction from the tester.

[0380] The subject-operated terminal has a user interface for the subject to input answers to the hearing test. The subject inputs answers to the hearing test via the user interface.

[0381] In this case, the user interface may be a display device that displays answer candidates (options) and an input device (e.g., a keyboard, mouse, button, touch panel, or microphone) that allows the user to select an answer from the displayed answer candidates (options).

[0382] The subject-operated terminal may be configured to automatically recognize (for example, by character recognition or voice recognition) input by the subject to the user interface.

[0383] In this case, the user interface may be an input interface (e.g., a touch panel) for the subject to input handwriting. In this case, the subject-operated terminal may acquire the subject's answer by character recognition of the handwriting input by the subject using the touch panel.

[0384] The user interface may also be an input interface (e.g., a microphone) for the subject to input voice. In this case, the input interface may include a touch panel. In this case, the subject-operated terminal may acquire the subject's response by performing voice recognition on the subject's speech.

[0385] If the subject-operated terminal is configured to automatically recognize input to the user interface by the subject, the subject-operated terminal may generate multiple answer candidates (e.g., about 2 to 3) based on the results of automatic recognition (e.g., character recognition or voice recognition).The subject-operated terminal may then present the generated answer candidates to the subject.The subject may then select an answer from the presented answer candidates.The subject-operated terminal may acquire the answer selected by the subject as the answer to the hearing test.

[0386] The microphone used as a user interface may be built into an output device (for example, an audio device) that outputs test sounds to the subject.

[0387] The subject-operated terminal may transmit the subject's answers (handwritten input / spoken) to the examiner-operated terminal as image data / audio data without using automatic recognition technology. In this case, the examiner may determine the subject's answers based on the image data / audio data and input them to the examiner-operated terminal. This is effective when automatic recognition technology does not work as expected.

[0388] When the subject-operated terminal transmits the subject's answer (handwritten input / speech) as image data / audio data to the examiner-operated terminal, the examiner-operated terminal may recognize the subject's answer (e.g., character recognition or voice recognition) based on the image data / audio data. The subject-operated terminal may also transmit the subject's answer (handwritten input / speech) as image data / audio data to the server. In this case, the server may recognize the subject's answer (e.g., character recognition or voice recognition) based on the image data / audio data.

[0389] The server acquires the subject's answers from the subject-operated terminal and / or the examiner-operated terminal. The server may acquire the recognition results based on the image data / audio data as the subject's answers. The server records the test results (first test result and / or second test result) based on the subject's answers in a storage unit.

[0390] In this modification, the examiner and the subject may or may not be in the same physical space. The subject may undergo the examination in a facility, an office, or at home.

[0391] The example of Figure 43 is based on the premise that an examiner operates an examiner terminal to conduct an examination. However, the examination (the flow of operations performed by the examiner) may be automated. In this case, control for conducting the examination may be performed by a server on a network. When the examination is automated, the examiner terminal does not necessarily need to be included in the information processing system 1.

[0392] 6-2. Modifications Related to Display of Test Results The information processing system 1 (information processing device 10) of this embodiment performs processing (for example, the test result display processing shown in Example 1 or Example 3) for displaying the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) in a manner that allows them to be compared. In the above-described embodiment, FIGS. 33B, 34B, 40, and 41B are shown as examples of displays that allow the test results of the first mode and the test results of the second mode to be compared. However, displays that allow the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) to be compared are not limited to these examples.

[0393] (1) Display Example 1 Figure 44 is a diagram showing an example of a display that allows comparison of the test results in the first mode and the test results in the second mode. Specifically, Figure 44 shows an example in which the test results in the second mode shown in Figure 34A and the test results in the first mode are displayed simultaneously. In the example of Figure 34B, the test results in the second mode that are displayed are fixed to the most recent two tests. However, in the example of Figure 44, the viewer can freely select the test results in the second mode that are displayed simultaneously with the test results in the first mode.

[0394] Fig. 44 displays a user interface that allows the viewer to select the test results they wish to display. In the example of Fig. 44, the user interface is a check box, but the user interface is not limited to a check box. In the example of Fig. 44, one check box corresponds to one test result. In Fig. 44, nine check boxes (nine years' worth of test results in the example of Fig. 44) are displayed in both the first mode and the second mode.

[0395] In the example of FIG. 44 , the subject underwent testing in the second mode from 2015 to 2023. The subject also underwent testing in the first mode in 2023. By checking the check boxes, the viewer can view the subject's test results in the second mode from 2015 to 2023 and the subject's test results in the first mode in 2023. Note that in the example of FIG. 44 , check boxes for years in which the subject did not undergo testing are blacked out, preventing the viewer from checking them.

[0396] When a check box is checked, the information processing device 10 displays the corresponding test result on the display. In the example of Fig. 44, the check box for 2023 in the first mode and the check boxes for 2019 and 2022 in the second mode are checked. Therefore, the information processing device 10 displays the first mode test result for 2023 and the second mode test results for 2019 and 2022 on the same graph.

[0397] In this example, a viewer can easily compare one or more desired first mode test results with one or more desired second mode test results by checking a checkbox.

[0398] (2) Display Example 2 Fig. 45 is a diagram showing another example of a display that allows comparison between the test results in the first mode and the test results in the second mode. Specifically, Fig. 45 shows an example in which the test results in the second mode shown in Fig. 34A and the test results in the first mode are displayed simultaneously. In the example of Fig. 45, the viewer can easily change the test results in the second mode that are displayed simultaneously with the test results in the first mode.

[0399] FIG. 45 displays a user interface that allows the viewer to select the test results that they wish to display. In the example of FIG. 45, the user interface is a slider (also called a track bar). In the example of FIG. 45, one scale mark on the slider corresponds to one test result. FIG. 45 displays a slider for selecting test results in the first mode and a slider for selecting test results in the second mode. Each of the two sliders displays 10 scale marks.

[0400] In the example of FIG. 45 , the subject underwent testing in the second mode from 2015 to 2023. The subject also underwent testing in the first mode in 2023. By operating the slider, the viewer can view the subject's test results in the second mode from 2015 to 2023 and the subject's test results in the first mode in 2023. Note that in the example of FIG. 45 , areas of the slider bar corresponding to years in which the subject did not undergo testing are filled in black, preventing the viewer from moving the tracker (the button on the bar area).

[0401] When the viewer moves the tracker, the information processing device 10 displays on the display the test results corresponding to the scale where the tracker is located. In the example of Fig. 45, the tracker is located at the scale for 2023 in the first mode and the scale for 2019 in the second mode. Therefore, the information processing device 10 displays the test results for 2023 in the first mode and the test results for 2019 in the second mode on the same graph.

[0402] 45, the test results in the first mode are for one test, but there may be multiple test results in the first mode. In this case, the viewer can change the test results in the first mode displayed on the graph by moving the tracker.

[0403] In this example, by operating the slider, the viewer can easily compare the test results of the desired first mode with the test results of the desired second mode. Moreover, by operating the slider, the viewer can easily grasp the changes in the test results within the same mode.

[0404] (3) Display Example 3 Figures 46A and 46B are diagrams showing another example of a display that allows comparison between the test results in the first mode and the test results in the second mode. Specifically, Figures 46A and 46B are examples in which the test results in the second mode shown in Figure 34A and the test results in the first mode are displayed simultaneously. In the examples of Figures 46A and 46B, the viewer can easily change the test results in the second mode that are displayed simultaneously with the test results in the first mode.

[0405] In the example of FIG. 46A , the first-mode and second-mode test results for 2023 are displayed using black circles / black squares and solid lines. Also, in the example of FIG. 46A , the second-mode test results from 2019 to 2022 are displayed using dashed lines. The display does not necessarily have to be dashed lines. The first-mode and second-mode test results for 2023 may be displayed in a lighter color (e.g., gray) than the first-mode and second-mode test results for 2023. Also, the display is not limited to the years from 2019 to 2023. Similar to the examples of FIGS. 44 and 45 , the first mode and second mode may each be displayed for 10 times (10 years).

[0406] The second mode inspection results from 2019 to 2023 are shown by the dashed dotted line.

[0407] The viewer can click or touch the dashed dotted line in the graph to display the test results of the second mode corresponding to the dashed dotted line that was clicked or touched on the graph.

[0408] When the dashed-dotted line is clicked or touched, the information processing device 10 displays the test results corresponding to the clicked or touched dashed-dotted line on the display. In the example of Figure 46B, the viewer clicked or touched the dashed-dotted line corresponding to the test results for 2019, causing the information processing device 10 to display the test results for 2019 in the second mode on the graph.

[0409] In this example, the multiple test results in the second mode to be compared are displayed in a dimmed manner in advance, so that the viewer can easily grasp the progress of changes in the subject's symptoms.

[0410] (4) Other Display Examples The information processing device 10 does not necessarily have to display the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) on the same graph. The information processing device 10 may display the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) side by side. Of course, at least one of the multiple graphs displayed side by side may include test results of other modes.

[0411] Furthermore, the display of the test results is not limited to a graph. For example, the information processing device 10 may display text information / numeric information as the test results. For example, the information processing device 10 may display a table containing text information / numeric information of the test results, as shown in FIG. 25B, FIG. 27B, FIG. 29B, or FIG. 31B.

[0412] The information processing device 10 may display the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) in the same table. Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may display a table showing the test results of the first mode (first test results) and a table showing the test results of the second mode (second test results) side by side. At least one of the tables displayed side by side may include test results of other modes.

[0413] Similarly, the information processing device 10 may display the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the test results of the second mode (second test results) in the same screen area (e.g., the same window or the same form in an application / window). Furthermore, the information processing device 10 may display the screen area displaying the test results of the first mode (first test results) and the screen area displaying the test results of the second mode (second test results) side by side. At least one of the multiple screen areas displayed side by side may include test results of another mode.

[0414] <6-3. Modifications Related to Sound Source> In the above-described embodiment, at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source is configured with a plurality of test sounds selected based on the characteristics related to the hearing test results of the other sound source.

[0415] In this case, in the above-described embodiment, the feature related to the result of the hearing test is the accuracy rate of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion. That is, in the above-described embodiment, at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that the accuracy rate of the hearing test under the predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with the accuracy rate of the hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source.

[0416] However, the feature related to the hearing test result is not limited to the accuracy rate of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion. For example, the feature related to the hearing test result may be the score of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion. The score of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion may be, for example, the average score when multiple subjects (e.g., people with normal hearing) take the hearing test.

[0417] The score may be a score used in a speech-in-noise audiometry. The score used in a speech-in-noise audiometry may be SRT-50. Note that the score used in a speech-in-noise audiometry is not limited to SRT-50, but may be an S / N ratio at which the accuracy rate is a predetermined ratio. The predetermined ratio is not limited to 50%. For example, the predetermined ratio may be a ratio less than 50%. For example, the predetermined ratio may be 33.3% (1 / 3) or 25% (1 / 4). The predetermined ratio may also be a ratio greater than 50%. For example, the predetermined ratio may be 66.7% (2 / 3) or 75% (3 / 4). Alternatively, the score used in a speech-in-noise audiometry may be a unique score at a predetermined S / N ratio.

[0418] For example, the multiple test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may be selected so that the difference between the score of a hearing test under a predetermined standard using the first mode sound source and the score of a hearing test under a predetermined standard using the second mode sound source is within a predetermined threshold. Here, the multiple test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may be selected from the multiple test sounds constituting the first mode sound source. The number of first mode sound sources to be selected as test sound candidates is not limited to one, and may be multiple. That is, the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may be selected from the test sounds of multiple first mode sound sources. Here, the second mode sound source may include test sounds other than the test sounds constituting the first mode sound source. Furthermore, the multiple test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may not include the test sounds constituting the first mode sound source. That is, the second mode sound source may be composed of test sounds other than the multiple test sounds constituting the first mode sound source.

[0419] If the score is expressed as an S / N ratio (for example, SRT-50), the predetermined threshold is, for example, a value of 10 dB or less, preferably a value of 5 dB or less, and more preferably a value of 4 dB or less. The predetermined threshold may be a value of 3 dB or less, or a value of 2 dB or less. It is even more preferable if the predetermined threshold is a value of 1 dB or less.

[0420] The test sounds constituting the first mode sound source may be selected from a plurality of test sounds. For example, the test sounds constituting the first mode sound source may be selected so that the difference between the score of a hearing test under a predetermined standard using the first mode sound source and the score of a hearing test under a predetermined standard using the second mode sound source is within a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may be the same as described above.

[0421] Here, the multiple test sounds constituting the first mode sound source may be selected from the multiple test sounds constituting the second mode sound source. The number of second mode sound sources to be selected as test sound candidates is not limited to one, and multiple test sounds may be selected. That is, the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source may be selected from the test sounds of the multiple first mode sound sources. The first mode sound source may include test sounds other than one or more test sounds constituting the second mode sound source.

[0422] The test sounds constituting the first mode sound source do not necessarily have to include the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source, i.e., the first mode sound source may be composed of test sounds other than the test sounds constituting the second mode sound source.

[0423] 6-4. Modifications Related to Hearing Tests In the above-described embodiments, the first and second modes are exemplified as test modes for the hearing test. However, the test modes for the hearing test are not limited to the first and second modes. For example, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 of this embodiment may have a third mode as a test mode that is different from the first and second modes.

[0424] Here, the third mode hearing test may be a hearing test having an even longer test time than the first mode hearing test. In this case, the third mode sound source used in the third mode hearing test may be composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that make up the first mode sound source. Furthermore, the third mode hearing test may be a hearing test having an even shorter test time than the second mode hearing test. In this case, the third mode sound source used in the third mode hearing test may be composed of a smaller number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that make up the second mode sound source.

[0425] The test sounds may be configured so that the characteristics related to the results of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion using the third mode sound source satisfy a predetermined relationship with the characteristics related to the results of a hearing test under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) using a sound source of another mode (at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source).

[0426] When the test mode of the hearing test in this embodiment includes a third mode, the information processing system 1 can perform each of the above-mentioned processes by treating the third mode hearing test as one of the first hearing test and the second hearing test, and the first mode or second mode hearing test as the other of the first hearing test and the second hearing test.

[0427] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the hearing test is a speech-in-noise audiometry. However, the hearing test of this embodiment is not limited to a speech-in-noise audiometry. The hearing test of this embodiment (e.g., at least one of the first mode audiometry, the second mode audiometry, and the third mode audiometry) may be a speech audiometry without adding noise. The speech audiometry may be a speech recognition threshold test or a speech discrimination test. Furthermore, the hearing test of this embodiment is not limited to a speech audiometry.

[0428] 6-5. Modifications Related to Sound Source Generation Processing In the above-described embodiments (e.g., sound source generation processing), the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 generated the second mode sound source based on features related to the results of a hearing test conducted under a predetermined criterion for the first mode sound source. More specifically, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 generated the second mode sound source by selecting multiple test sounds such that the accuracy rate of a hearing test conducted under a predetermined criterion using the second mode sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with the accuracy rate of a hearing test conducted under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) using the first mode sound source. However, the sound source generated by the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 is not limited to the second mode sound source.

[0429] For example, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 may generate at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source based on features related to the results of a hearing test of the other sound source under a predetermined standard. For example, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 may generate the second mode sound source based on features related to the results of a hearing test of the first mode sound source under a predetermined standard. Alternatively, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 may generate the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source based on features related to the results of a hearing test of the other sound source under a predetermined standard. Here, the other sound source is the second mode sound source for the first mode sound source and the first mode sound source for the second mode sound source.

[0430] For example, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 may generate at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source by selecting multiple test sounds so that the accuracy rate of a hearing test using at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source under a predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with the accuracy rate of a hearing test using the other sound source under the same criterion (predetermined criterion). More specifically, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 may generate at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source by selecting multiple test sounds from multiple test sounds of the other sound source so that the accuracy rate of a hearing test using at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source under a predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with the accuracy rate of a hearing test using the other sound source under the same criterion (predetermined criterion). As described above, the other sound source is the second mode sound source for the first mode sound source and the first mode sound source for the second mode sound source.

[0431] In the above-described embodiment (e.g., the sound source generation process), the feature related to the hearing test result is the accuracy rate of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion. That is, in the above-described embodiment, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 generates at least one second sound source mode by selecting multiple test sounds such that the accuracy rate of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion using the second mode sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with the accuracy rate of the hearing test under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) using the first mode sound source. However, the feature related to the hearing test result is not limited to the accuracy rate of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion.

[0432] The feature related to the hearing test result may be a hearing test score under a predetermined standard. The hearing test score under a predetermined standard may be, for example, an average score obtained when multiple subjects (e.g., people with normal hearing) perform a hearing test under a predetermined noise environment. The score may be a score used in a speech-in-noise audiometry test. The score used in the speech-in-noise audiometry test may be an SRT-50. The score used in the speech-in-noise audiometry test is not limited to the SRT-50, but may also be an S / N ratio at which the accuracy rate is a predetermined ratio. The predetermined ratio is not limited to 50%. For example, the predetermined ratio may be a ratio less than 50% (e.g., 33.3% or 25%) or a ratio greater than 50% (e.g., 66.7% or 75%). Alternatively, the score used in the speech-in-noise audiometry test may be a unique score at a predetermined S / N ratio. The score may be an SRT-50.

[0433] At this time, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 may generate at least one of the first mode sound source and the second sound source mode by selecting multiple test sounds so that a hearing test score (e.g., SRT-50) under a predetermined standard using one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with a hearing test score (e.g., SRT-50) under the same standard (predetermined standard) using the other sound source.

[0434] More specifically, the information processing system 1 / information processing device 10 may generate at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source mode by selecting multiple test sounds that constitute the other sound source so that a hearing test score (e.g., SRT-50) under a predetermined criterion using one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with a hearing test score (e.g., SRT-50) under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) using the other sound source. As described above, the other sound source is the second mode sound source for the first mode sound source, and the first mode sound source for the second mode sound source.

[0435] Note that, with regard to the sound source generation process according to the modified example, a part or all of the processes (for example, a part or all of the steps) may be performed by a person. In this case, the person performing the sound source generation process may perform a part or all of the processes using the information processing device 10.

[0436] <6-6. Other Modifications> The control device that controls the information processing device 10 of this embodiment may be realized by a dedicated computer system or a general-purpose computer system.

[0437] For example, a program for executing the above-described operations is stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as an optical disk, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic tape, or a flexible disk and distributed. Then, for example, the program is installed in a computer and the above-described processing is executed to configure a control device. In this case, the control device may be a device external to the information processing device 10 (e.g., a personal computer). Alternatively, the control device may be a device internal to the information processing device 10 (e.g., the control unit 13).

[0438] The above program may also be stored in a storage device provided in a server device on a network such as the Internet, and may be downloaded to a computer. The above functions may also be realized by cooperation between an operating system (OS) and application software. In this case, the parts other than the OS may be stored on a medium and distributed, or the parts other than the OS may be stored in a server device and may be downloaded to a computer.

[0439] Furthermore, data of the sound source of this embodiment (for example, the first mode sound source and / or the second mode sound source generated by the method shown in the sound source generation process described above) may be stored on a computer-readable recording medium such as an optical disk, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic tape, or a flexible disk and distributed. A computer may then read the data from the recording medium and play the data. In this case, the computer may be the information processing device 10 or a control device (for example, the control unit 13) provided in the information processing device 10.

[0440] Furthermore, data of the sound source of this embodiment (for example, the first mode sound source and / or the second mode sound source generated by the method shown in the sound source generation process described above) may be stored in a storage device provided in a server device on a network such as the Internet, and may be made available for download to a computer. The computer may download the data from the server device and play the data. In this case, the server device / computer may be the information processing device 10. Furthermore, the computer may be a control device (for example, the control unit 13) provided in the information processing device 10.

[0441] This embodiment also includes a recording medium / storage device that stores the sound source of this embodiment. This embodiment also includes an information processing device (e.g., a server device / computer) that stores the sound source of this embodiment. This embodiment also includes an information processing device (e.g., a server device / computer) that transmits or receives the sound source of this embodiment via a network. This embodiment also includes a process (transmission process / reception process) that transmits or receives the sound source of this embodiment via a network.

[0442] Furthermore, among the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being performed automatically can be performed manually, or all or part of the processes described as being performed manually can be performed automatically using a known method. In addition, the information including the processing procedures, specific names, various data, and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed as desired unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each drawing is not limited to the information shown in the drawings.

[0443] Furthermore, the components of each device shown in the figure are conceptual functional components and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0444] The above-described embodiments can be combined as appropriate within the scope of the present invention without causing any inconsistency in the processing content. The order of the steps shown in the flowcharts of the above-described embodiments can be changed as appropriate.

[0445] Furthermore, for example, the present embodiment can be implemented as any configuration constituting an apparatus or system. For example, the present embodiment can be implemented as a processor as a system LSI (Large Scale Integration), a module using multiple processors, a unit using multiple modules, or a set in which a unit further has additional functions. In other words, the present embodiment can also be implemented as a part of the configuration of an apparatus.

[0446] In this embodiment, a system refers to a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (components), etc.), regardless of whether all of the components are in the same housing. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a single device in which multiple modules are housed in a single housing, are both systems.

[0447] Furthermore, for example, this embodiment can have a cloud computing configuration in which one function is shared and processed jointly by a plurality of devices via a network.

[0448] <<7. Conclusion>> As described above, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the information processing device 10 / information processing system 1 acquires a test result (first test result) from a first-mode hearing test conducted using a first-mode sound source, and a test result (second test result) from a first-mode hearing test. For example, the information processing device 10 / information processing system 1 acquires the first test result and the second test result from a server or a storage device.

[0449] In this embodiment, at least one of the first mode sound source and the second mode sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that a feature (e.g., accuracy rate and / or SRT-50) related to the result of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with a feature related to the result of a hearing test under the same criterion (predetermined criterion) using the other sound source.

[0450] Therefore, the information processing device 10 / information processing system 1 can display the first test result and the second test result so that they can be compared. For example, the information processing device 10 / information processing system 1 can display the first test result and the second test result on the same graph. As a result, the test results can be used effectively.

[0451] For example, since it becomes easier to switch between the first mode and the second mode, it is possible to shorten the time required for the test. By shortening the test time, it is possible to prevent a decrease in score due to a decrease in the subject's concentration. As a result, the reliability of the test results is increased. Furthermore, past test results can be effectively utilized in the present. By utilizing the most recent past test results in the second mode, the test time in the first mode can be shortened.

[0452] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure. Furthermore, components of different embodiments and modifications may be combined as appropriate.

[0453] Furthermore, the effects of each embodiment described in this specification are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting, and other effects may also be obtained.

[0454] The present technology may also be configured as follows: (1) An information processing device including: an acquisition unit that acquires a first test result from a first hearing test conducted using a first sound source consisting of a plurality of test sounds; and a second test result from a second hearing test conducted using a second sound source different from the first sound source and consisting of a plurality of test sounds; and a display control unit that performs processing to display the first test result and the second test result in a comparable manner, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that features related to the result of the hearing test under a predetermined standard satisfy a predetermined relationship with features related to the result of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source. (2) The information processing device according to (1), wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from a plurality of test sounds constituting the other sound source so that a difference between the accuracy rate of the hearing test under the predetermined criterion and the accuracy rate of the hearing test using the other sound source under the predetermined criterion is within a predetermined threshold. (3) The information processing device according to (2), wherein the first sound source is composed of a greater number of test sounds than the number of test sounds constituting the second sound source, and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from a plurality of test sounds constituting the first sound source so that a difference between the accuracy rate of the hearing test under the predetermined criterion and the accuracy rate of the hearing test using the first sound source under the predetermined criterion is within the predetermined threshold. (4) The information processing device according to (1), wherein the first hearing test and the second hearing test are speech hearing tests in noise, and at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from a plurality of test sounds constituting the other sound source so that the difference between SRT-50 of the hearing test under the predetermined standard and SRT-50 of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source is within a predetermined threshold.(5) The information processing device according to (4), wherein the first sound source is composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds constituting the second sound source, and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from the plurality of test sounds constituting the first sound source so that a difference between SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined standard and SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined standard using the first sound source is within the predetermined threshold. (6) The information processing device according to (5), comprising: a first test control unit that performs processing related to the first hearing test, and a discrimination unit that makes a discrimination related to test content of the first hearing test based on a plurality of past second test results, and the first test control unit performs processing related to the first hearing test based on a result of the discrimination related to the test content. (7) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (6), further comprising a generation unit that generates at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source based on features related to a result of a hearing test under the predetermined standard for the other sound source. (8) The information processing device according to (7), wherein the generation unit generates at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source by selecting a plurality of test sounds such that an accuracy rate of a hearing test under the predetermined standard using one of the first sound source and the second sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with an accuracy rate of a hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source. (9) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the generation unit generates at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source by selecting a plurality of test sounds such that an SRT-50 of a hearing test under a predetermined standard using one of the first sound source and the second sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with an SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source. (10) The information processing device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the second sound source is composed of a number of test sounds that is smaller than the number of test sounds that constitute the first sound source.(11) An information processing device comprising: a first test control unit that performs processing related to a first hearing test conducted using a first sound source consisting of a plurality of test sounds; and a second test control unit that performs processing related to a second hearing test conducted using a second sound source different from the first sound source and consisting of a plurality of test sounds, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that features related to a result of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfy a predetermined relationship with features related to the result of the hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source. (12) The information processing device described in (11), wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from a plurality of test sounds that constitute the other sound source so that a difference between the accuracy rate of the hearing test under the predetermined criterion and the accuracy rate of the hearing test using the other sound source under the predetermined criterion is within a predetermined threshold. (13) The information processing device according to (12), wherein the first sound source is composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds constituting the second sound source, and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from the plurality of test sounds constituting the first sound source so that a difference between the accuracy rate of the hearing test under the predetermined standard and the accuracy rate of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using the first sound source is within the predetermined threshold. (14) The information processing device according to (11), wherein the first hearing test and the second hearing test are speech-in-noise audiometry tests, and at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from the plurality of test sounds constituting the other sound source so that a difference between SRT-50 of the hearing test under the predetermined standard and SRT-50 of the hearing test using the other sound source under the predetermined standard is within a predetermined threshold.(15) The information processing device according to any one of (14), wherein the first sound source is composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that constitute the second sound source, and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from the plurality of test sounds that constitute the first sound source so that a difference between SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined standard and SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined standard using the first sound source is within the predetermined threshold. (16) The information processing device according to any one of (11) to (15), wherein the second sound source is composed of a smaller number of test sounds than the number of test sounds that constitute the first sound source. (17) An information processing method comprising: obtaining a first test result from a first hearing test conducted using a first sound source consisting of a plurality of test sounds; and a second test result from a second hearing test conducted using a second sound source different from the first sound source and consisting of a plurality of test sounds; performing processing to display the first test result and the second test result in a comparable manner; and wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that characteristics related to the hearing test result under a predetermined standard satisfy a predetermined relationship with characteristics related to the hearing test result under the predetermined standard using the other sound source. (18) An information processing method comprising: performing processing related to a first hearing test conducted using a first sound source consisting of a plurality of test sounds; and performing processing related to a second hearing test conducted using a second sound source different from the first sound source and consisting of a plurality of test sounds, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that characteristics related to the result of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfy a predetermined relationship with characteristics related to the result of the hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source.(19) A program that causes a computer to function as: an acquisition unit that acquires a first test result from a first hearing test conducted using a first sound source consisting of a plurality of test sounds; and a second test result from a second hearing test conducted using a second sound source different from the first sound source and consisting of a plurality of test sounds; and a display control unit that performs processing to display the first test result and the second test result in a comparable manner, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that characteristics related to the result of the hearing test under a predetermined standard satisfy a predetermined relationship with characteristics related to the result of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source. (20) A program that causes a computer to function as: a first test control unit that performs processing related to a first hearing test conducted using a first sound source consisting of a plurality of test sounds; and a second test control unit that performs processing related to a second hearing test conducted using a second sound source that is different from the first sound source and consists of a plurality of test sounds, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected so that characteristics related to the results of the hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfy a predetermined relationship with characteristics related to the results of the hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source.

[0455] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Information processing system 10 Information processing device 11 Communication unit 12 Storage unit 13 Control unit 14 Input unit 15 Output unit 131 Acquisition unit 132 Display control unit 133 First inspection control unit 134 Second inspection control unit 135 Discrimination unit 136 Generation unit 137 Output control unit 138 Communication control unit U1, U2 User

Claims

1. An acquisition unit that acquires a first test result from a first hearing test performed using a first sound source composed of a plurality of test sounds, and a second test result from a second hearing test performed using a second sound source that is different from the first sound source and is composed of a plurality of test sounds; and a display control unit that performs processing for comparably displaying the first test result and the second test result. At least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected such that a feature regarding the result of a hearing test under a predetermined standard satisfies a predetermined relationship with a feature regarding the result of a hearing test under the same predetermined standard using the other sound source. An information processing apparatus.

2. At least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from among the plurality of test sounds constituting the other sound source such that the difference between the correct answer rate of the hearing test under the predetermined standard and the correct answer rate of the hearing test under the same predetermined standard using the other sound source is within a predetermined threshold. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The first sound source is composed of a greater number of test sounds than the number of test sounds constituting the second sound source. The second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from among the plurality of test sounds constituting the first sound source such that the difference between the correct answer rate of the hearing test under the predetermined standard and the correct answer rate of the hearing test under the same predetermined standard using the first sound source is within the predetermined threshold. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The first hearing test and the second hearing test are speech-in-noise hearing tests. At least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from among the plurality of test sounds constituting the other sound source such that the difference between the SRT-50 of the hearing test under the predetermined standard and the SRT-50 of the hearing test under the same predetermined standard using the other sound source is within a predetermined threshold. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. The first sound source is composed of a number of test sounds greater than the number of test sounds that make up the second sound source. The second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from among the plurality of test sounds that make up the first sound source such that the difference between the SRT-50 of the hearing test under the predetermined standard and the SRT-50 of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using the first sound source is within the predetermined threshold. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4.

6. A first test control unit that performs processing related to the first hearing test, and a determination unit that determines the test content related to the first hearing test based on a plurality of past second test results. The first test control unit performs processing related to the first hearing test based on the result of the determination regarding the test content. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a generation unit that generates at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source based on a feature related to the result of a hearing test under the predetermined standard of the other sound source.

8. The generation unit generates at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source by selecting a plurality of test sounds such that the correct answer rate of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using one of the first sound source and the second sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with the correct answer rate of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7.

9. The generation unit generates at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source by selecting a plurality of test sounds such that the SRT-50 of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using one of the first sound source and the second sound source satisfies a predetermined relationship with the SRT-50 of the hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7.

10. The second sound source is composed of a number of test sounds less than the number of test sounds that make up the first sound source. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

11. An information processing apparatus comprising: a first test control unit that performs processing related to a first hearing test performed using a first sound source composed of a plurality of test sounds; and a second test control unit that performs processing related to a second hearing test performed using a second sound source different from the first sound source and composed of a plurality of test sounds, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected such that a feature regarding a result of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with a feature regarding a result of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source.

12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from among the plurality of test sounds constituting the other sound source such that a difference between a correct answer rate of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion and a correct answer rate of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source is within a predetermined threshold.

13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the first sound source is composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds constituting the second sound source, and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from among the plurality of test sounds constituting the first sound source such that a difference between a correct answer rate of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion and a correct answer rate of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the first sound source is within the predetermined threshold.

14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the first hearing test and the second hearing test are speech-in-noise hearing tests, and at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from among the plurality of test sounds constituting the other sound source such that a difference between SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion and SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source is within a predetermined threshold.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the first sound source is composed of a larger number of test sounds than the number of test sounds constituting the second sound source, and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected from among the plurality of test sounds constituting the first sound source such that a difference between SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion and SRT-50 of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the first sound source is within the predetermined threshold.

16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the second sound source is composed of a number of test sounds that is smaller than the number of test sounds constituting the first sound source.

17. An information processing method, comprising: obtaining a first test result from a first hearing test performed using a first sound source composed of a plurality of test sounds, and a second test result from a second hearing test performed using a second sound source different from the first sound source and composed of a plurality of test sounds; performing processing for comparably displaying the first test result and the second test result; and wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected such that a feature regarding a result of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with a feature regarding a result of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source.

18. An information processing method, comprising: performing processing regarding a first hearing test performed using a first sound source composed of a plurality of test sounds; and performing processing regarding a second hearing test performed using a second sound source different from the first sound source and composed of a plurality of test sounds; and wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected such that a feature regarding a result of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with a feature regarding a result of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source.

19. A program causing a computer to function as: an acquisition unit that acquires a first test result from a first hearing test performed using a first sound source composed of a plurality of test sounds, and a second test result from a second hearing test performed using a second sound source different from the first sound source and composed of a plurality of test sounds; and a display control unit that performs processing for comparably displaying the first test result and the second test result; and wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected such that a feature regarding a result of a hearing test under a predetermined criterion satisfies a predetermined relationship with a feature regarding a result of a hearing test under the predetermined criterion using the other sound source.

20. A program that causes a computer to function as a first test control unit that performs processing related to a first hearing test performed using a first sound source composed of a plurality of test sounds, and a second test control unit that performs processing related to a second hearing test performed using a second sound source that is different from the first sound source and is composed of a plurality of test sounds, wherein at least one of the first sound source and the second sound source is composed of a plurality of test sounds selected such that a feature related to the result of a hearing test under a predetermined standard satisfies a predetermined relationship with a feature related to the result of a hearing test under the predetermined standard using the other sound source.

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