Device setting adjustments

Abstract

Presented herein are techniques for adjusting or manipulating settings of a recipient device using an independent display terminal having a temporary wireless connection, rather than using a paired mobile device with a persistent wireless link. More specifically, according to certain aspects presented herein, wireless communications technologies are leveraged to provide an interactive device-specific interface for enabling a recipient to control operational settings of the recipient device using the independent display terminal. In certain embodiments, the independent display terminal establishes a second temporary wireless connection with a remote server. In other embodiments, the recipient device establishes a second wireless connection with the remote server.

Description

DEVICE SETTING ADJUSTMENTSBACKGROUNDField of the Invention[oooi] The present invention relates generally to techniques for adjusting settings of a recipient device using an independent display terminal.Related Art

[0002] Medical devices have provided a wide range of therapeutic benefits to recipients over recent decades. Medical devices can include internal or implantable components / devices, external or wearable components / devices, or combinations thereof (e.g., a device having an external component communicating with an implantable component). Medical devices, such as traditional hearing aids, partially or fully-implantable hearing prostheses (e.g., bone conduction devices, mechanical stimulators, cochlear implants, etc.), pacemakers, defibrillators, functional electrical stimulation devices, and other medical devices, have been successful in performing lifesaving and / or lifestyle enhancement functions and / or recipient monitoring for a number of years.

[0003] The types of medical devices and the ranges of functions performed thereby have increased over the years. For example, many medical devices, sometimes referred to as “implantable medical devices,” now often include one or more instruments, apparatus, sensors, processors, controllers or other functional mechanical or electrical components that are permanently or temporarily implanted in a recipient. These functional devices are typically used to diagnose, prevent, monitor, treat, or manage a disease / injury or symptom thereof, or to investigate, replace or modify the anatomy or a physiological process. Many of these functional devices utilize power and / or data received from external devices that are part of, or operate in conjunction with, implantable components.SUMMARY

[0004] In one aspect, a method is provided. The method comprises: identifying, at a recipient device, an independent display terminal in spatial proximity to the recipient device; and wirelessly sending data from the recipient device to the independent display terminal; wherein the independent display terminal is configured to use the data to generate an interactive devicespecific interface at the independent display terminal for enabling a recipient to control operational settings of the recipient device.

[0005] In another aspect, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises: a memory; a wireless transceiver configured to establish a temporary wireless connection with a recipient device in spatial proximity to the apparatus and to wirelessly receive data associated with the recipient device in via the temporary wireless connection; a display device; and at least one processor configured to use the data associated with a recipient device to generate an interactive device-specific interface at the display device, wherein the interactive device -specific interface is configured to enable a user to control operational settings of the recipient device.

[0006] In another aspect, a method is provided. The method comprises: establishing a first wireless connection with a recipient device at an independent display terminal; receiving, at the independent display terminal via the first wireless connection, data from the recipient device; and using the data to generate an interactive device -specific interface at the independent display terminal for enabling a recipient to control operational settings of the recipient device.

[0007] In another aspect, one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media are provided. The one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media comprise instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, are configured to: establish a first wireless connection with an independent display terminal at a recipient device; and send, from the recipient device via the first wireless connection, data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device to the independent display terminal.

[0008] In another aspect, a method is provided. The method comprises: at a recipient device: identifying a display terminal in spatial proximity to the recipient device; establishing a first wireless connection with a display terminal; receiving data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device from a remote server via a second wireless connection; and sending the data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device to the display terminal.

[0009] In another aspect, an implantable medical device is provided. The implantable medical device comprises: a memory; a first wireless transceiver configured to establish a first wireless connection with a display device in spatial proximity to implantable medical device and to wirelessly receive data associated with the recipient device in via the first wireless connection; a second wireless transceiver configured to establish a second connection with a remote server; and at least one processor configured to receive data associated with the implantable medical device from the remote server, and to send, using the first wireless transceiver, the data associated with the implantable medical device to a display terminal for use in generating aninteractive device-specific interface at the display device, wherein the interactive devicespecific interface is configured to enable a user to control operational settings of the recipient device.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention are described herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating a cochlear implant system with which aspects of the techniques presented herein can be implemented;

[0012] FIG. IB is a side view of a recipient wearing a sound processing unit of the cochlear implant system of FIG. 1A;

[0013] FIG. 1C is a schematic view of components of the cochlear implant system of FIG. 1 A;

[0014] FIG. ID is a block diagram of the cochlear implant system of FIG. 1A;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a system with which aspects of the techniques presented herein can be implemented;

[0016] FIG. 3 illustrates an example process in accordance with certain aspects presented herein;

[0017] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are diagrams illustrating an example system including a recipient device and an independent display terminal in communication over a public wireless network, according to an example embodiment;

[0018] FIG. 4C is a diagram illustrating an example interactive device-specific interface for displaying and managing device settings of the recipient device via the independent display terminal of FIGs. 4A-4B, according to an example embodiment;

[0019] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method, which can be implemented by the system of FIGs. 4A-4B, according to an example embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are diagrams illustrating an example system including a recipient device, a display terminal, and a remote server, where the display terminal and the remote server are in communication over a Wide Area Network (WAN), according to an example embodiment;

[0021] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a method, which can be implemented by the system of FIGs. 6A-6B, according to an example embodiment;

[0022] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are diagrams illustrating an example system including a recipient device, a display terminal, and a remote server, where the recipient device and the remote server are in communication over a Wide Area Network (WAN), according to an example embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 9A is a flowchart of a method, which can be implemented by the system of FIGs. 8A-8B, according to an example embodiment;

[0024] FIG. 9B is a flowchart of a method, which is an extension of the method of FIG. 9A, according to an example embodiment;

[0025] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a vestibular stimulator system with which aspects of the techniques presented herein can be implemented;

[0026] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a retinal prosthesis system with which aspects of the techniques presented herein can be implemented;

[0027] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment;

[0028] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment; and

[0030] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] In conventional arrangements, a recipient device (e.g., an implantable recipient device, a hearing device, a medical device, etc.) is paired with a mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or other remote-control device. A pairing process establishes a “persistent” wireless connection between the recipient device and the mobile device. Once the pairing process is completed, the so-called “paired device” is used (e.g., by the user / recipient, caregiver, etc.) to adjust the settings of the “paired” recipient device. A drawback of such arrangements is that the paired device (e.g., smartphone) must always be on hand to access and adjust the settings of the recipient device. In addition, a dedicated application (e.g., a mobile app) is typically required to be provided and maintained for this purpose. The need for the recipient to alwayshave access to the paired device, and the requirement to develop and maintain a dedicated application can be burdensome for recipients and device manufacturers.

[0032] Presented herein are techniques for manipulating / adjusting settings of a recipient device using an independent display terminal, rather than a paired device, in which a “temporary” wireless connection (i.e., “unpaired,” non-persistent) is established between the recipient device and the independent display terminal. More specifically, according to certain embodiments presented herein, aspects of evolving wireless communications technologies are leveraged to provide an interactive device -specific interface (i.e., a graphical user interface (GUI) display) for enabling a recipient to view and control various operational settings of the recipient device using the independent display terminal.

[0033] As used herein, a “recipient device” is a hearing device, a medical device, or an implantable recipient device that is configured to worn by, or at least partially implanted in, a recipient. The term “hearing device” is to be broadly construed herein as any device that delivers sound signals to a user / recipient in any form, including in the form of acoustical stimulation, mechanical stimulation, electrical stimulation, etc. As such, a hearing device can be a device for use by a hearing-impaired person (e.g., hearing aids, middle ear auditory prostheses, bone conduction devices, direct acoustic stimulators, electro-acoustic hearing prostheses, auditory brainstem stimulators, bimodal hearing prostheses, bilateral hearing prostheses, dedicated tinnitus therapy devices, tinnitus therapy device systems, combinations or variations thereof, etc.) or a device for use by a person with normal hearing (e.g., consumer devices that provide audio streaming, consumer headphones, earphones, and other listening devices). The term “medical device” is to be broadly construed to include any implantable auditory prostheses (e.g., a subset of hearing devices), any medical device configured to worn by a recipient, as well as any implantable non-auditory prostheses, such as vestibular devices (e.g., vestibular implants), visual devices (i.e., bionic eyes), sensors, pacemakers, drug delivery systems, defibrillators, functional electrical stimulation devices, catheters, seizure devices (e.g., devices for monitoring and / or treating epileptic events), sleep apnea devices, electroporation devices, etc.

[0034] In addition, as used herein, an “independent display terminal” is a device that is configured for wireless communication with other devices, has a visual display, and which is not specifically paired or associated with a specific individual or device (e.g., not a paired phone) . An independent display terminal could include, for example, public display terminals, an Intemet-of-Things (loT) device in a person’s home, etc.

[0035] As described further below, certain aspects of the techniques presented herein leverage evolving technologies to provide an implantable medical device having integrated direct access to a Wide Area Network (WAN), direct access to a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), or direct access to Local Area Network (LAN). As used herein, direct access to a WAN, MAN, or LAN means that the device itself has the built-in (integrated) capability to connect to the corresponding network without the need for an intermediary device. This integrated direct access to a WAN, MAN, or LAN is referred to herein as “remote access” or “remote connectivity.” As described below, this remote access could be implemented in a number of different manners, such as via an integrated Wi-Fi module (e.g., integrated Wi-Fi chip), a Narrowband Internet of things (NB-IoT) module (e.g., a chip using NB-IoT technology) a Long Term Evolution Machine Type Communication (LTE-M or LTE-MTC) module (e.g., a chip using LTE-M technologies), another type oflow-power wide-area network (LPWAN) module, a cellular module (e.g., cellular radio), etc.

[0036] As noted above, there are a number of different types of devices in / with which embodiments of the present invention can be implemented. Merely for ease of description, the techniques presented herein are primarily described with reference to a specific device in the form of a cochlear implant system. However, it is to be appreciated that the techniques presented herein can also be partially or fully implemented by any of a number of different types of devices as described elsewhere herein.

[0037] FIGs. 1A-1D illustrates an example cochlear implant system 102 with which aspects of the techniques presented herein can be implemented. The cochlear implant system 102 comprises an external component 104 that is configured to be directly or indirectly attached to the body of the user, and an intemal / implantable component 112 that is configured to be implanted in or worn on the head of the user. In the examples of FIGs. 1A-1D, the implantable component 112 is sometimes referred to as a “cochlear implant.” FIG. 1A illustrates the cochlear implant 112 implanted in the head 154 of a user, while FIG. IB is a schematic drawing of the external component 104 worn on the head 154 of the user. FIG. 1C is another schematic view of the cochlear implant system 102, while FIG. ID illustrates further details of the cochlear implant system 102. For ease of description, FIGs. 1A-1D will generally be described together.

[0038] In the examples of FIGs. 1A-1D, the external component 104 comprises a sound processing unit 106, an external coil 108, and generally, a magnet fixed relative to the external coil 108. The cochlear implant 112 includes an implantable coil 114, an implant body 134, andan elongate stimulating assembly 116 configured to be implanted in the user’s cochlea. In one example, the sound processing unit 106 is an off-the-ear (OTE) sound processing unit, sometimes referred to herein as an OTE component, that is configured to send data and power to the implantable component 112. In general, an OTE sound processing unit is a component having a generally cylindrically shaped housing 111 and which is configured to be magnetically coupled to the user’s head 154 (e.g., includes an integrated external magnet 150 configured to be magnetically coupled to an intemal / implantable magnet 152 in the implantable component 112). The OTE sound processing unit 106 also includes an integrated external (headpiece) coil 108 (the external coil 108) that is configured to be inductively coupled to the implantable coil 114.

[0039] It is to be appreciated that the OTE sound processing unit 106 is merely illustrative of the external devices that could operate with implantable component 112. For example, in alternative examples, the external component 104 can comprise a behind-the-ear (BTE) sound processing unit configured to be attached to, and worn adjacent to, the recipient’s ear. In general, a BTE sound processing unit comprises a housing that is shaped to be worn on the outer ear of the recipient and is connected to the separate external coil assembly via a cable, where the external coil assembly is configured to be magnetically and inductively coupled to the implantable coil 114. It is also to be appreciated that alternative external components could be located in the user’s ear canal, worn on the body, etc.

[0040] Although the cochlear implant system 102 includes the sound processing unit 106 and the cochlear implant 112, as described below, the cochlear implant 112 can operate independently from the sound processing unit 106, for at least a period, to stimulate the user. For example, the cochlear implant 112 can operate in a first general mode, sometimes referred to as an “external hearing mode,” in which the sound processing unit 106 captures sound signals which are then used as the basis for delivering stimulation signals to the user. The cochlear implant 112 can also operate in a second general mode, sometimes referred as an “invisible hearing” mode, in which the sound processing unit 106 is unable to provide sound signals to the cochlear implant 112 (e.g., the sound processing unit 106 is not present, the sound processing unit 106 is powered-off, the sound processing unit 106 is malfunctioning, etc.). As such, in the invisible hearing mode, the cochlear implant 112 captures sound signals itself via implantable sound sensors and then uses those sound signals as the basis for delivering stimulation signals to the user. Further details regarding operation of the cochlear implant 112 in the external hearing mode are provided below, followed by details regarding operation ofthe cochlear implant 112 in the invisible hearing mode. It is to be appreciated that reference to the external hearing mode and the invisible hearing mode is merely illustrative and that the cochlear implant 112 could also operate in alternative modes.

[0041] In still other embodiments, the functions of the sound processing unit 106 (as described further below) could be fully integrated into the cochlear implant 112 to form a “totally- implantable” cochlear implant. In such embodiments, the external component 104 could be replaced with a charging device (e.g., OTE charger, BTE charger, pillow charger, etc.), that is used to, for example, periodically recharge the power source 141 of the cochlear implant.

[0042] Returning to the example ofFIGs. 1A-1D, the sound processing unit 106 of the external component 104 also comprises one or more input devices configured to capture and / or receive input signals (e.g., sound or data signals) at the sound processing unit 106. The one or more input devices include, for example, one or more sound input devices 118 (e.g., one or more external microphones, audio input ports, telecoils, etc.), one or more auxiliary input devices 119 (e.g., audio ports, such as a Direct Audio Input (DAI), data ports, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, cable port, etc.), and a short-range wireless transmitter / receiver (wireless transceiver) 120, each located in, on or near the sound processing unit 106. However, it is to be appreciated that one or more input devices can include additional types of input devices and / or less input devices (e.g., the short-range wireless transceiver 120 and / or one or more auxiliary input devices 119 could be omitted). A short-range wireless transceiver could be, for example, a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) transceiver, a magnetic induction transceiver (radio), etc.

[0043] The sound processing unit 106 also comprises a charging coil 121, a closely-coupled radio frequency transmitter / receiver (RF transceiver) 122, at least one rechargeable battery 123, and an external sound processing module 124. The external sound processing module 124 can be configured to perform a number of operations, and can be formed by one or more processors (e.g., one or more Digital Signal Processors (DSPs), one or more uC cores, etc.), firmware, software, etc. arranged to perform operations described herein. That is, the external sound processing module 124 can be implemented as firmware elements, partially or fully implemented with digital logic gates in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), partially or fully in software, etc.

[0044] Returning to the example of FIGs. 1A-1D, the implantable component 112 comprises an implant body (main module) 134, a lead region 136, and the intra-cochlear stimulatingassembly 116, all configured to be implanted under the skin (tissue) 115 of the user. The implant body 134 generally comprises a hermetically-sealed housing 138 in which RF interface circuitry 140, at least one power source 141 (e.g., one or more batteries, one or more capacitors, etc.), and a stimulator unit 142 are disposed. The implant body 134 also includes the intemal / implantable coil 114 that is generally external to the housing 138, but which is connected to the RF interface circuitry 140 via a hermetic feedthrough (not shown in FIG. ID).

[0045] As noted, stimulating assembly 116 is configured to be at least partially implanted in the user’s cochlea. Stimulating assembly 116 includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced intra-cochlear electrical stimulating contacts (electrodes) 144 that collectively form a contact array (electrode array) 146 for delivery of electrical stimulation (current) to the recipient’s cochlea. Stimulating assembly 116 extends through an opening in the recipient’s cochlea (e.g., cochleostomy, the round window, etc.) and has a proximal end connected to stimulator unit 142 via lead region 136 and a hermetic feedthrough (not shown in FIG. ID). Lead region 136 includes a plurality of conductors (wires) that electrically couple the electrodes 144 to the stimulator unit 142. The implantable component 112 also includes an electrode outside of the cochlea, sometimes referred to as the extra-cochlear electrode (ECE) 139.

[0046] As noted, the cochlear implant system 102 includes the external coil 108 and the implantable coil 114. The external magnet 150 is fixed relative to the external coil 108 and the intemal / implantable magnet 152 is fixed relative to the implantable coil 114. The external magnet 150 and the intemal / implantable magnet 152 fixed relative to the external coil 108 and the intemal / implantable coil 114, respectively, facilitate the operational alignment of the external coil 108 with the implantable coil 114. This operational alignment of the coils enables the external component 104 to transmit data and power to the implantable component 112 via a closely-coupled wireless link 148 formed between the external coil 108 with the implantable coil 114. In certain examples, the closely-coupled wireless link 148 is a radio frequency (RF) link. However, various other types of energy transfer, such as infrared (IR), electromagnetic, capacitive, and inductive transfer, can be used to transfer the power and / or data from an external component to an implantable component and, as such, FIG. ID illustrates only one example arrangement.

[0047] As noted above, sound processing unit 106 includes the external sound processing module 124. The external sound processing module 124 is configured to process the received input audio signals (received at one or more of the input devices, such as sound input devices 118 and / or auxiliary input devices 128), and convert the received input audio signals into outputcontrol signals for use in stimulating a first ear of a recipient or user (i.e., the external sound processing module 124 is configured to perform sound processing on input signals received at the sound processing unit 106). Stated differently, the one or more processors (e.g., processing element(s) implementing firmware, software, etc.) in the external sound processing module 124 are configured to execute sound processing logic in memory to convert the received input audio signals into output control signals (stimulation signals) that represent electrical stimulation for delivery to the recipient.

[0048] As noted, FIG. ID illustrates an embodiment in which the external sound processing module 124 in the sound processing unit 106 generates the output control signals. In an alternative embodiment, the sound processing unit 106 can send less processed information (e.g., audio data) to the implantable component 112 and the sound processing operations (e.g., conversion of input sounds to output control signals 156) can be performed by a processor within the implantable component 112.

[0049] In FIG. ID, according to an example embodiment, output control signals (stimulation signals) are provided to the RF transceiver 122, which transcutaneously transfers the output control signals (e.g., in an encoded manner) to the implantable component 112 via external coil 108 and implantable coil 114. That is, the output control signals (stimulation signals) are received at the RF interface circuitry 140 via implantable coil 114 and provided to the stimulator unit 142. The stimulator unit 142 is configured to utilize the output control signals to generate electrical stimulation signals (e.g., current signals) for delivery to the user’s cochlea via one or more of the stimulating contacts (electrodes) 144. In this way, cochlear implant system 102 electrically stimulates the user’s auditory nerve cells, bypassing absent or defective hair cells that normally transduce acoustic vibrations into neural activity, in a manner that causes the recipient to perceive one or more components of the input audio signals (the received sound signals).

[0050] As detailed above, in the external hearing mode the cochlear implant 112 receives processed sound signals from the sound processing unit 106. However, in the invisible hearing mode, the cochlear implant 112 is configured to capture and process sound signals for use in electrically stimulating the user’s auditory nerve cells. In particular, as shown in FIG. ID, an example embodiment of the cochlear implant 112 can include a plurality of implantable sound sensors 165(1), 165(2) that collectively form a sensor array 160, and an implantable sound processing module 158. Similar to the external sound processing module 124, the implantable sound processing module 158 can comprise, for example, one or more processors and amemory device (memory) that includes sound processing logic. The memory device can comprise any one or more of: Non-Volatile Memory (NVM), Ferroelectric Random Access Memory (FRAM), read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media devices, optical storage media devices, flash memory devices, electrical, optical, or other physical / tangible memory storage devices. The one or more processors are, for example, microprocessors or microcontrollers that execute instructions for the sound processing logic stored in memory device.

[0051] In the invisible hearing mode, the implantable sound sensors 165(1), 165(2) of the sensor array 160 are configured to detect / capture input sound signals 166 (e.g., acoustic sound signals, vibrations, etc.), which are provided to the implantable sound processing module 158. The implantable sound processing module 158 is configured to convert received input sound signals 166 (received at one or more of the implantable sound sensors 165(1), 165(2)) into output control signals 156 for use in stimulating the first ear of a recipient or user (i.e., the implantable sound processing module 158 is configured to perform sound processing operations). Stated differently, the one or more processors (e.g., processing element(s) implementing firmware, software, etc.) in implantable sound processing module 158 are configured to execute sound processing logic in memory to convert the received input sound signals 166 into output control signals 156 that are provided to the stimulator unit 142. The stimulator unit 142 is configured to utilize the output control signals 156 to generate electrical stimulation signals (e.g., current signals) for delivery to the user’s cochlea, thereby bypassing the absent or defective hair cells that normally transduce acoustic vibrations into neural activity.

[0052] It is to be appreciated that the above description of the so-called external hearing mode and the so-called invisible hearing mode are merely illustrative and that the cochlear implant system 102 could operate differently in different embodiments. For example, in one alternative implementation of the external hearing mode, the cochlear implant 112 could use signals captured by the sound input devices 118 and the implantable sound sensors 165(1), 165(2) of sensor array 160 in generating stimulation signals for delivery to the user.

[0053] For hearing devices that include an implantable sound processing module, such as implantable sound processing module 158, the techniques presented herein can be implemented without an external processor, such as the external sound processing module 124 of sound processing unit 106. Accordingly, a hearing device that includes an implant body 134 (cochlearimplant 112) and lacks an external component 104 (sound processing unit 106) can be configured to implement the techniques presented herein.

[0054] As noted, presented herein are techniques for enabling an independent display terminal to generate an interactive device -specific interface for use in adjusting / manipulating settings of a recipient device. More specifically, as described further below, a recipient or other user can interact with the interactive device -specific interface presented on the display terminal to adjust one or more device settings or parameters of the recipient device. Before providing a detailed explanation of various example implementations, a basic architecture in which the device adjustment techniques set forth herein can be applied is described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0055] More specifically, FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example system 200 including at least a recipient device 202 (e.g., hearing device, medical device, etc.) and an independent display terminal 210, according to an example embodiment. In certain embodiments, the recipient device 202 can comprise an external component (e.g., a sound processing unit), or an internal component (e.g., a totally implanted cochlear implant), or a combination thereof. That is, the recipient device 202 communicating with independent display terminal 210 could be a totally implantable cochlear implant operating in the invisible hearing mode, as described above (e.g., without a sound processing unit), the recipient device 202 could be a sound processing unit operating with a totally implantable cochlear implant (in the external hearing mode, as described above), or a sound operating with a standard cochlear implant. The cochlear implant system 102 of FIG. ID is just one non-limiting illustrative example of such a recipient device. However, it should be appreciated that the techniques described herein are similarly applicable to a wide variety of other types of hearing devices, medical devices, implants, and / or wearable devices having wireless connectivity and adjustable settings.

[0056] As described further below, the independent display terminal 210 is used to provide a user interface for enabling the recipient to interact with and control the recipient device 202. The user interface provided by an independent display terminal, such as the independent display terminal 210, is referred to herein as an “interactive device -specific interface.” Also as described further below, the recipient device 202 and the independent display terminal 210 are configured to communicate with each other using a temporary wireless connection 226 (i.e., a non-persistent wireless link, sometimes referred to herein as a temporary secure communications channel) over a public or private wireless network (e.g., utilizing BLE wireless communications protocols), for example.

[0057] In certain embodiments, the system 200 can further include a remote device 270, also referred to herein as a remote server 270. In certain embodiments, the remote server 270 is configured to store various information with respect to the recipient device 202, including but not limited to device information, configuration parameters, operational settings, and the like, and can provide enhanced capabilities for the management of device settings for the recipient device 202. In some variations, the independent display terminal 210 is configured to communicate with the remote server 270 over a temporary wireless connection 276 (e.g., a temporary wireless link utilizing cellular communications protocols, Wide Area Network (WAN) technology, or another type of remote access). In some other variations, the recipient device 202 is configured to communicate with the remote server 270 over a temporary wireless connection 276 (e.g., a temporary wireless link utilizing cellular communications protocols, another WAN technology, or another type of remote access). These variations provide flexibility in terms of applying the techniques described herein, depending on whether the independent display terminal 210 is equipped with remote access communication capabilities, and / or whether the recipient device 202 itself is equipped with remote access communication capabilities, for example. However, it is noted that the remote server 270 and the temporary wireless connection 276 are considered optional, as indicated by dashed lines in FIG. 2, and can be omitted in some other example embodiments of the system 200 (e.g., involving local device settings for which remote access to a remote server is not necessary).

[0058] As noted above, the term “independent display terminal” can refer to a variety of different devices, including but not limited to an Internet of Things (loT) device, a public touch sensitive screen at the mall or airport, a seat back screen on a plane, a home television or refrigerator with a touch sensitive screen, etc. In particular, an independent display terminal is a “non-paired” device that establishes a “temporary” (non-persistent) wireless connection / link with the recipient device. It should be appreciated that “paired” mobile devices belonging to the user / recipient (such as the recipient’s smartphone, tablet, or other dedicated remote-control device) that can establish a “persistent” wireless connection / link with the recipient device are specifically excluded from the definition of “independent display terminal” as used herein. On the other hand, however, it is possible that a “non-paired” mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet belonging to a different person (i.e., someone other than the recipient of the recipient device) could be considered within the scope of the term “independent display terminal,” in the sense that such non-paired mobile device of the different individual would not establish a “persistent” wireless connection / link with the recipient device, would not have a dedicatedmobile application installed thereon for managing device settings with respect to the recipient device, and would not store any personal information about the recipient nor any devicespecific information about the recipient device in its memory.

[0059] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the recipient / user of the recipient device 202 issues a recipient command, such as a voice command (e.g., “Device - display settings”) or other user input (e.g., tap device, button press, etc.), to trigger a process for temporarily wirelessly connecting / linking the recipient device 202 with a nearby independent display terminal, such as the independent display terminal 210. More specifically, upon detecting a selected recipient command (e.g., voice command or user input), the recipient device 202 is configured to use short-range wireless communication techniques (e.g., BLE, magnetic induction, etc.) to locate an available nearby independent display terminal (e.g., loT device, etc.), to establish the temporary wireless connection 226 with the independent display terminal, and enable the independent display terminal 210 to generate and display an interactive device-specific interface 292. Thereafter, the recipient can use the interactive device-specific interface 292 to, for example, view or adjust device parameters, operational settings, and / or other device-specific information using the independent display terminal 210. Any adjustments made via the interactive device-specific interface 292 are provided to the recipient device 202 via the temporary wireless connection 226, and the recipient device 202 implements the adjustments. Preferably, the data / information relating to the recipient device and / or the operational settings of the recipient device that is communicated to the independent display terminal 210 is non-identifying, and contains only generic, non-sensitive labels and values. In some instances in which the independent display terminal 210 is in a relatively more private setting (e.g., a home appliance or other personal loT device that is recognized or indicated as being private), then relatively more sensitive data / information can be displayed in the interactive device -specific interface 292.

[0060] The independent display terminal 210 is configured to generate the interactive devicespecific interface 292 such that the relevant information is displayed in a useful way, either under express instructions from the recipient device 202, or by utilizing any available standards for sharing and interacting with data via public display terminals such as loT devices, which could have any of a variety of display screen sizes and user controls (e.g., touch sensitive screen, buttons, etc). In some examples, the independent display terminal 210 can incorporate any public data streams or audio / video streams available at the location into the display. This incorporation will permit the recipient to select which, if any, of the data streams or audio / videostreams the recipient wishes to process with the recipient device 202. As noted, data / information relating to adjustments to device settings are sent back to the recipient device 202 from the independent display terminal 210 via the temporary wireless connection 226, and the corresponding adjustments are then incorporated into the device settings. That is, the recipient device 202 adjusts one or more of its operational settings according to the adjustment data received from the independent display terminal 210.

[0061] In accordance with the techniques presented herein, security measures can be implemented to prevent unauthorized access to the device settings, or otherwise preventing unintentional control of the device settings, with respect to the recipient device 202. These security measures can take a variety of different forms. For example, in some embodiments, the recipient device 202 will provide a code to the recipient (e.g., a code that is audible or perceived as sound by the recipient only) that is then entered into the independent display terminal 210 to ensure that the correct person (i.e., the recipient of the recipient device 202 or other authorized user) is currently using the independent display terminal 210. After adjusting any device settings as desired, the recipient can then terminate the temporary wireless connection 226 via the independent display terminal 210 (e.g., by tapping an “Exit” button on the interactive device-specific interface 292), via a further recipient command, such as a voice command (e.g., “Device - terminate settings display”) or other user input (e.g., tap device, button press, etc.), by detecting a disconnection event such as the recipient walking away from the independent display terminal 210 (e.g., the temporary wireless connection 226 automatically terminates when the recipient device 202 is no longer within a threshold spatial proximity to the independent display terminal 210), upon expiration of a predetermined time period (e.g., after a certain length of inactivity), etc.

[0062] It is noted that the example embodiments described herein can involve some form of generic, standardized application which would operate across a variety of independent display terminals (e.g., loT devices, etc.), thereby allowing third-party recipient devices, such as the hearing devices and / or medical devices described elsewhere herein, to interface with the independent display terminals and perform the various operations that are described in the following sections with reference to respective figures.

[0063] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process 300 for displaying and / or adjusting device settings for a recipient device (and / or other device-related information), according to an example embodiment. Process 300 can be implemented using the system 200 including the recipient device 202 and the independent display terminal 210 described abovewith reference to FIG. 2, for example. The process 300 begins at operation 310, which includes activating device configuration for a recipient device, by initiating a user interface session for managing the device configuration of the recipient device using a recipient command. For example, the recipient can issue a voice command (e.g., “Display Device settings”) or other user input (e.g., tap the recipient device three times, press a certain button twice in succession, etc.) to the recipient device, to initiate establishment of a temporary wireless connection / link with a nearby independent display terminal.

[0064] Operation 320 includes the recipient device scanning the surrounding area for suitable independent display terminals (e.g., loT devices, etc.) in response to operation 310. For example, the recipient device can leverage Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communications to identify nearby independent display terminals (loT devices) and determine their respective data display and manipulation capabilities. Operation 330 includes the recipient device opening a temporary communications channel with a nearby independent display terminal (e.g., loT device, etc.). For example, operation 330 can involve flashing the display on the independent display terminal and accepting entry of a short code (e.g., a 2-4 digits) that is provided to the recipient via the recipient device (e.g., in the form of audio / sounds).

[0065] In certain examples, such as when the independent display terminal will communicate with a remote server and / or when the device settings to be manipulated are capable of harming the recipient, the temporary communications channel established at operation 330 will be a secure communications channel (e.g., implemented using protocols or other mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access). However, in arrangements in which a remote server is not involved and / or when the device settings to be manipulated are not capable of harming the recipient, the temporary communications channel established at operation 330 does not necessarily need to be secure. In either case, operation 330 involves one or more steps to ensure that the recipient is interacting with the correct display terminal.

[0066] There are several different techniques for device identification / location and connection establishment that can be implemented when there are multiple independent display terminals within spatial proximity (e.g., within wireless communications range) of the recipient device. For example, an audible prompt could be played at the recipient device or the independent display terminal (e.g., device name, location or direction with respect to the recipient, etc.), or a notification can flash on the screen of the nearby independent display terminals for confirmation by the recipient (e.g., by tapping the screen of the display terminal, tapping the recipient device, a voice command, etc. to cycle through options and make a selection). Incertain examples, the recipient device provides the code to the recipient in a manner that is audible or perceived as sound only by the recipient. In some instances, the user can manually activate both the recipient device and the desired independent display terminal, such as by tapping a button of the recipient device and then tapping to activate the display terminal (e.g., comparable to putting a set of Bluetooth headphones into pairing mode, and then searching for the headphones from a smartphone or other mobile device). It should be appreciated that the techniques for device identification / location and connection establishment described above are by way of example and not by limitation, and various other suitable techniques are also possible.

[0067] At operation 340, the recipient device provides device settings data and / or other devicerelated information (and possibly other public sources data) to the independent display terminal via the temporary secure communications channel to enable the independent display terminal to generate and display an interactive device-specific interface for viewing and manipulation by the recipient. For example, the recipient device can provide the independent display terminal with recipient device-related data, including but not limited to, a level control with the current level indicated, a list of programs with the current selection highlighted, a list of BLE streams available for selection, information obtained directly from the remote server (e.g., via a cellular connection or another type of remote access) including available programs, level limits and all other data that would otherwise be provided by a dedicated mobile application for managing device settings, etc.) to display for viewing and manipulation by the user, via the interactive device-specific interface. For example, the device -related data can be configured to command the use of standardized controls with suitable data, and / or to provide a generic graphical user interface (e.g., smartphone -like interface or tablet-style interface that feels familiar to the user) for display on a touch-sensitive screen of the independent display terminal.

[0068] Although not shown in FIG. 3, the independent display terminal generates and displays an interactive device-specific interface for use in adjusting / manipulating settings of a recipient device. The recipient interacts with the interactive device-specific interface presented on the independent display terminal to adjust one or more device parameters or operational settings of the recipient device. At operation 350, the recipient device receives one or more adjusted operational setting(s) (as adjusted / set by the recipient using the interactive device-specific interface) from the independent display terminal via the temporary secure communications channel. The recipient device can then update its device settings according to the one or more adjusted operational setting(s) received from the independent display terminal. In someexamples involving remote storage in a remote device (e.g., a remote server), the recipient device also updates the remote storage with the one or more adjusted operational setting(s) (e.g., if the recipient device has remote connectivity with the remote server), or alternatively, the independent display terminal updates the remote storage with the one or more adjusted operational setting(s) for the recipient device (e.g., if the independent display terminal has remote connectivity with the remote server). In certain embodiments, the remote device is updated contemporaneously with the implementation of the adjustments at the recipient device, but in other examples the remote device can be updated asynchronously. In either case, operation 350 can involve one or more steps to ensure that the data / information and operational settings associated with the recipient device that are maintained in remote storage remain consistent when any adjustments are made at the recipient device. For example, ensuring that the most recent operational settings of the recipient device are available for remote processing, review, etc. by an audiologist or an automated process can facilitate remote care through use of the remote device.

[0069] The process 300 of FIG. 3 ends at operation 360, which includes deleting the interactive device-specific interface from the independent display terminal and terminating the temporary secure communications channel between the recipient device and the independent display terminal. For example, the recipient can issue a recipient command, such as a voice command (e.g., “Implant - terminate settings display”) or user input (e.g., tap recipient device, button press, etc.) to the recipient device, or the recipient can issue a recipient command to the independent display terminal (e.g., the recipient can manually press an “End” button displayed on the interactive device-specific interface of the independent display terminal), to terminate the temporary secure communications channel. Additionally or alternatively, the temporary secure communications channel can be automatically terminated using motion sensing techniques, such as when the recipient turns and walks away from the independent display terminal (e.g., via accelerometer detection of location change, etc.), or upon expiration of a predetermined time period (e.g., a timeout event after a period of inactivity, etc.).

[0070] FIGs. 4A-4C, 5, 6A, 6B, 7, 8A, 8B, 9A, and 9B illustrate several specific example implementations of the techniques described herein. In generally, the system diagrams of FIGs. 4A-4C are associated with the method showing in FIG. 5; the system diagrams of FIGs. 6A- 6B are associated with the method shown in FIG. 7; and the system diagrams of FIGs. 8A-8B are associated with the methods shown in FIGs. 9A and 9B.Changes to Local Settings Only (No Remote Server Connection)

[0071] In one example implementation shown in FIGs. 4A and 4B, the recipient device and the independent display terminal both have built-in wireless access and can utilize short-range wireless communications (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), magnetic induction, etc.) capabilities to locally communicate information related to device settings. In this example, the display and manipulation of device settings can be implemented by the recipient device (e.g., hearing device, medical device, etc.) locally communicating with the independent display terminal over a public wireless network (BLE), without accessing a remote device / server.

[0072] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating an example system 400 including a recipient device 402 and an independent display terminal 410, according to an example embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4A, the recipient device 402 includes a RF communications module 422, a processor 425 (provides API), and a memory 427 (stores device data, instructions, device settings / parameters, etc.). The independent display terminal 410 includes a controller 482, an RF communications module 486, and a display screen 490. The recipient device 402 is configured to establish a temporary wireless connection 426 (a temporary wireless link) with the RF communications module 486 of the independent display terminal 410 over a public wireless network (e.g., BLE) via the RF communications module 422, and communicate with the independent display terminal to initiate display of an interactive device -specific interface 492 on the display screen 490, as described herein.

[0073] FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the system 400 of FIG. 4A, in which the recipient device 402 is a cochlear implant system that includes a cochlear implant 412 (internal component), and optionally, a sound processing unit 406 (external component). One or both of the cochlear implant 412 and / or the sound processing unit 406 can include a communications module for establishing the temporary wireless connection 426 with the independent display terminal 410 over the public wireless network (e.g., using BLE, etc.).

[0074] The recipient device 402 connects (for example via Bluetooth) directly to the independent display terminal 410 (e.g., an loT device, etc.) that has a controller 482 configured with a compatible generic application to display a generic graphical user interface (GUI) on the display screen 490, also referred to herein as a generic GUI application, or more simply, a generic app. In one specific example embodiment of FIGs. 4A-4B, the changes are only to local device settings that do not require interaction with a remote device (e.g., a remote server associated with a manufacturer, a clinic, a caregiver, etc.). In some example embodiments, the local device settings to be adjusted can include various basic settings such as volume, sensitivity, forward focus, etc., although the local device settings are not limited thereto.

[0075] In this embodiment, the recipient device 402 can advertise its presence to surrounding devices, such as the exemplary independent display terminals described herein, that are within wireless communication range of the recipient device 402. The generic app provided via the controller 482 of the independent display terminal 410 can be triggered to search for recipient devices which are advertising in various different ways (e.g., continuously, periodically, on- demand, upon command, via sensing, etc.). Once the controller 482 (via the generic app) has detected the recipient device 402, the processor 425 of the recipient device 402 will provide an application programming interface (API) which provides access to device parameters, operational settings, and / or device-specific information that can be adjusted or manipulated, and corresponding instructions and / or information on how the device settings can be adjusted (e.g., on / off, increase / decrease, enable / disable, etc.). The controller 482 (the generic app) is thus configured by the recipient device 402 to display the device parameters, operational settings, or other device-specific information that can be adjusted, and the corresponding means of adjustment, on an interactive device -specific interface 492 on the display screen 490. As noted, the recipient can then view and manipulate the interactive device-specific interface 492 on the display screen 490 of the independent display terminal 410 to adjust one or more device settings of the recipient device 402. In certain embodiments, the device parameters, operational settings, or other device -specific information can be displayed in any suitable manner, and any restrictions regarding information that can or cannot be displayed are addressed via the API on the recipient device 402.

[0076] Preferably, there should be some form of authentication between the recipient device 402 and the independent display terminal 410 for security reasons, such as a physical presence test which involves the recipient confirming they are in control of the recipient device 402 to be adjusted (e.g., “Tap Device Three Times,” press a button twice rapidly, etc.). Once the temporary wireless connection 426 has been established over the public wireless network, the controller 482 (generic app) will cause the display screen 490 to display the list of device parameters, operational settings, or other device-specific information available on the recipient device 402, via the interactive device-specific interface 492. The recipient is then able to adjust one or more device parameters, operational settings, etc. by controlling the generic app via the interactive device -specific interface 492, which sends commands over the temporary wireless connection 426 (e.g., using a short-range wireless communications protocol, such as BLE, magnetic induction, etc.) to the recipient device 402, which validates the commands and applies the changes (i.e., adjusts the one or more parameters, settings, etc. at the recipient device 402).In certain embodiments, the API of the recipient device 402 can provide the name of the device parameters, operational settings, etc, and corresponding options for adjustment or manipulation that should be presented via the interactive device-specific interface 492 displayed on the display screen 490 via the generic app. The selection input by the recipient via the interactive device-specific interface 492 would then be translated by the processor 425 (API) on the recipient device 402, such that the correct adjustment or other manipulation is made with respect to the corresponding device parameter, operational setting, etc. at the recipient device 402.

[0077] When the recipient has finished with their device settings adjustments, the recipient can terminate the temporary wireless connection 426 with the generic app of the independent display terminal 410 (e.g., in any of the ways described above in connection with operation 360 of FIG. 3).

[0078] It will be appreciated that an important aspect of the embodiment of FIGs. 4A and 4B, as well as that of embodiments presented herein, is that the independent display terminal does not include a dedicated application for communicating with the recipient device. Instead, the communication between the independent display terminal and the recipient device is facilitating using APIs running implemented using a standardize wireless communication protocol (where any restrictions, security, set-up requirements, etc. are addressed via the APIs). That is, there is no need for the independent display terminal to be pre-configured / pre-equipped with any special or dedicated application to enable management of recipient device settings according to the techniques described herein.

[0079] FIG. 4C is a diagram illustrating an example interactive device-specific interface for displaying and managing device parameters and / or operational settings of a recipient device, according to an example embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4C, an interactive device -specific interface 492 is displayed on the display screen 490 of the independent display terminal 410. The interactive device-specific interface 492 identifies the various device parameters, operational settings, and / or other device-specific information associated with the recipient device 402, including but not limited to a volume setting 493, a sensitivity setting 495, and forward focus setting 497, and the corresponding adjustments that can be made to each device setting (e.g., a down button 494A and an up button 494B for the volume setting 493, a down button 496A and an up button 496B for the sensitivity setting 495, an off button 498 A and an on button 498B for the forward focus setting 497). The interactive device-specific interface 492 shown in FIG. 4C also includes an Exit button 499, which is operable to delete theinteractive device-specific interface 492 (and any corresponding data / information) and terminate the temporary wireless connection 426 for managing the device settings, upon activation of the Exit button 499 by the recipient. It is noted that an exit button or the like is merely one example means of terminating the display, and other options are possible as described elsewhere herein.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example method 500 according to an example embodiment. Method 500 can be implemented using the system 400 including the recipient device 402 and the independent display terminal 410 described above with reference to FIGs. 4A-4B, for example. At operation 510, method 500 includes establishing a temporary wireless connection between a recipient device and a display terminal via a wireless communications interface. At operation 520, method 500 includes transmitting, from the recipient device via the temporary wireless connection, information and instructions to the display terminal for enabling display of a one or more operational settings of the recipient device at the display terminal. At operation 530, method 500 includes receiving, at the recipient device via the temporary wireless connection, an indication of one or more adjustments to one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the display terminal. At operation 540, method 500 includes adjusting the one or more operational settings of the recipient device based on the indication of the one or more adjustments received from the display terminal.

[0081] In some examples, the temporary wireless connection is established between the recipient device and the display terminal via the wireless communications interface by utilizing a short-range wireless communications protocol (e.g., Bluetooth / BLE, magnetic induction, etc.). In some examples, operation 510 includes advertising a presence of the recipient device to surrounding devices, by the recipient device, using the short-range wireless communications protocol, searching for devices which are advertising, by the display terminal, according to the short-range wireless communications protocol, and detecting the presence of the recipient device by the display terminal.

[0082] In some examples, operation 520 includes providing an application programming interface (API) by the recipient device that provides the display terminal with access to information regarding the operational settings of the recipient device that can be adjusted and instructions regarding how each of the operational settings can be adjusted or otherwise manipulated, respectively.

[0083] In some examples, the information and instructions transmitted from the recipient device to the display terminal over the temporary wireless connection via the wireless communications interface cause the display terminal to display an interactive device-specific interface identifying the operational settings of the recipient device that can be adjusted and corresponding adjustments that can be made for each of the operational settings. In some examples, the indication of the one or more adjustments to the one or more operational settings of the recipient device is generated by the display terminal in response to receiving user input, via the interactive device-specific interface provided on the display terminal, that indicates the one or more adjustments to be made to the one or more operational settings of the recipient device.

[0084] In some examples, the operational settings of the recipient device that can be adjusted include at least a volume setting that can be increased or decreased, a sensitivity setting that can be increased or decreased, and a forward focus setting that can be enabled or disabled. In some examples, operation 540 can include one or more of increasing or decreasing the volume setting of the recipient device according to a first user input received via the interactive devicespecific interface on the display terminal, increasing or decreasing the sensitivity setting of the recipient device according to a second user input received via the interactive device-specific interface on the display terminal, or enabling or disabling the forward focus setting of the recipient device according to a third user input received via the interactive device -specific interface on the display terminal.

[0085] In some examples, the method 500 can further include authenticating the temporary wireless connection between the recipient device and the display terminal based on a physical presence test or an authorization code. In some examples, the method 500 can further include terminating the temporary wireless connection between the recipient device and the display terminal based on at least one of a recipient command received via the display terminal or the recipient device, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period. In some examples, the recipient device can be a hearing device or a medical device, and the display terminal can be an Internet of Things (loT) device, a smart television, a smart appliance, or a publicly -accessible display device, as described above.Changes to Settings Requiring Remote Connectivity (Remote Connection Via Independent Display Terminal)

[0086] In another example implementation shown in FIGs. 6A and 6B, an independent display terminal (e.g., loT device, etc.) has built-in remote access capability (e.g., Local AreaNetwork (LAN) access, cellular access (e.g., in certain aspects, utilize next-generation cellular capabilities), etc.) to remotely access device parameters, operational settings, and other devicespecific information stored in a remote device / server. In this example, the display and manipulation of device settings can be implemented by the independent display terminal accessing a remote server over a WAN. Likewise, the built-in remote access capabilities of the independent display terminal can also be used to deliver updated device settings and / or other device-related information to the remote server for storage in this example.

[0087] FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating an example system 600 including a recipient device 602, an independent display terminal 610, and a remote device 670, also referred to herein as a remote server 670, according to an example embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6A, the recipient device 602 includes RF communications module 622, processor 625 (provides API), and memory 627 (stores device data, instructions, etc.). In this specific example, the independent display terminal 610 includes a remote access module 674, in addition to a controller 682 (generic app), RF communications module 686, and display screen 690. The recipient device 602 is configured to establish a temporary wireless connection 626 (a temporary wireless link) with the RF communications module 686 of the independent display terminal 610 over a public wireless network (e.g., BLE) via the RF communications module 622, in the manner described above. It is to be appreciated that the remote access module 674 could be replaced with a module providing different type of access to a WAN.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 6A, the remote server 670 includes a processor 671 (provides remote app), a memory 673 (stores device data, parameters, settings, instructions, etc.), a wireless communications module 675, and a user interface 677 (input / output). In this example, the independent display terminal 610 is configured to establish a temporary wireless connection 676 (i.e., a non-persistent wireless link) with the wireless communications module 675 of the remote server 670 over a Wide Area Network (W AN), such as a cellular network via the remote access module 674. Again, the use of a cellular network is merely illustrative, and it is to be appreciated that the techniques presented herein can be implemented with other types of WANs.

[0089] FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the system 600, in which the recipient device 602 is a cochlear implant system including a cochlear implant 612 (internal component) and a sound processing unit 606 (external component) . One or both of the cochlearimplant 612 and / or the sound processing unit 606 can include an RF communications module for establishing the temporary wireless connection 626 with the independent display terminal 610 over the public wireless network (e.g., BLE). As shown in FIG. 6B, the independent display terminal 610 also includes a remote access module 674 for establishing the temporary wireless connection 676 with the remote server 670 over the WAN (e.g., cellular network in this example).

[0090] In this embodiment, changes are made to device parameters, operational settings, or other device-specific information of the recipient device 602 that require remote access to the remote server 670 (e.g., associated with a manufacturer, a clinic, a caregiver, etc.). In certain examples, these device settings can include relevant map data such as number of maxima, current levels, channel rates, impedance data (or other diagnostic data), and the like. The independent display terminal 610 (e.g., loT device) can be configured by the remote server 670 to function as an interface to a remote diagnostic or fitting session, for example. The recipient device 602 is directly connected to the independent display terminal 610 via the temporary wireless connection 626 (e.g., using Bluetooth / BLE), while all communication with the remote server 670 on behalf of the recipient device 602 will occur through the independent display terminal 610 via the temporary wireless connection 676.

[0091] In this embodiment, similar to the previous embodiment, the recipient device 602 and the independent display terminal 610 can temporarily connect, but unlike in the previous embodiment, the independent display terminal 610 also temporarily connects with the remote server 670 to enable the independent display terminal 610 to display an interactive devicespecific interface 692 for changing various device parameters, operational settings, or other device-specific information associated with the recipient device 602. One difference in this embodiment is that the recipient device 602, upon connection with the independent display terminal 610, can provide a unique identifier of the recipient device 602 as well as information on how the independent display terminal 610 can contact the remote server 670 to access the device parameters, operational settings, and other device-specific information associated with the recipient device 602 from the remote server 670. As noted, the temporary wireless connection 676 from the independent display terminal 610 to the remote server 670 can be a direct WAN connection, direct LAN connection, etc. The processor 671 of the remote server 670 provides a remote application which enables the independent display terminal 610 to interact with the device settings. When the recipient changes a device setting through the remote application, as displayed via the interactive device-specific interface 692 on the displayscreen 690, a command is sent from the independent display terminal 610 to the recipient device 602, which then enacts the change (adjusts the corresponding parameter, setting, etc. at the recipient device 602) accordingly.

[0092] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example method 700 according to an example embodiment. Method 700 can be implemented using the system 600 including the recipient device 602 and the independent display terminal 610 described above with reference to FIGs. 6A-6B, for example. At operation 710, method 700 includes a recipient device communicating with a display terminal to establish a first temporary wireless connection using a first wireless communications interface, to initiate a user interface session for managing device settings. At operation 720, method 700 includes the display terminal communicating with a remote server to establish a second temporary wireless connection (e.g., via a WAN) using a second wireless communications interface, to obtain information regarding operational settings of the recipient device that can be adjusted and instructions regarding how each of the operational settings can be adjusted.

[0093] Based on the information and instructions associated with the operational settings received from the remote server via the second temporary wireless connection, method 700 includes the display terminal generating and displaying an interactive device-specific interface for enabling a recipient to adjust the operational settings of the recipient device (via user input at the display terminal), at operation 730. Then, at operation 740, method 700 includes the display terminal transmitting, to the recipient device via the first temporary wireless connection, an indication from the display terminal regarding one or more adjustment s) to one or more operational setting(s) of the recipient device for implementation at the recipient device.

[0094] In some examples, the recipient device is configured to communicate with the display terminal, over the first temporary wireless connection via the first wireless communications interface, using a short-range wireless communications protocol (e.g., Bluetooth / BLE, magnetic induction, etc.).

[0095] In some examples, upon establishing the user interface session with the display terminal, the recipient device is configured to transmit, to the display terminal over the first temporary wireless connection via the first wireless communications interface, a unique identifier of the recipient device and information regarding how the display terminal can communicate with the remote server to access the information and instructions associated with the operational settings of the recipient device for display by the display terminal.

[0096] In some examples, the display terminal is configured to communicate with the remote server, over the second temporary wireless connection via the second wireless communications interface, using a cellular communications protocol. It is to be appreciated that reference to cellular communications protocols and cellular networks is provided to illustrate one example type of Wide Area Network (WAN) technology that can be used in embodiments presented herein. That is, aspects of the techniques presented herein that utilize remote access to a server or other computing device could leverage cellular communications, other types of WANs, including other types of Wireless Wide Area Network (WWANs). It is also to be appreciated that the techniques presented herein that utilize remote access to a server or other computing device via a Local Area Network (LAN) or Metropolitan Area Network (MAN).

[0097] In some examples, the interactive device-specific interface identifies the operational settings of the recipient device and corresponding adjustments that can be made to each of the operational settings based on the information and instructions associated with the operational settings obtained from the remote server. In some examples, the display terminal is configured to receive, via the interactive device-specific interface, user input indicating the one or more adjustments to the one or more operational settings of the recipient device.

[0098] In some examples, the recipient device is further configured to receive, over the first temporary wireless connection via the first wireless communications interface, the indication of the one or more adjustments to the one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the display terminal, and adjust the one or more operational settings of the recipient device based on the indication of the one or more adjustments received from the display terminal.

[0099] In some examples, the operational settings of the recipient device that can be adjusted include at least a volume setting, a sensitivity setting, and a forward focus setting, and the recipient device is configured to at least one of: increase or decrease the volume setting of the recipient device according to a first user input received via the interactive device-specific interface of the display terminal, increase or decrease the sensitivity setting of the recipient device according to a second user input received via the interactive device -specific interface of the display terminal, or enable or disable the forward focus setting of the recipient device according to a third user input received via the interactive device -specific interface of the display terminal.[ooioo] In some other examples, the operational settings of the recipient device include one or more of map data, number of maxima, current levels, channel rates, impedance data, anddiagnostic data, and the recipient device is configured to adjust one or more of the map data, the number of maxima, the current levels, the channel rates, the impedance data, or the diagnostic data according to user input received via the interactive device -specific interface of the display terminal that indicates the one or more adjustments.[ooioi] In some examples, the display terminal is further configured to communicate with the remote server, over the second temporary wireless connection via the second wireless communications interface, to update the remote server with the one or more adjustments to the one or more operational settings of the recipient device.

[0102] In some examples, the display terminal is configured to authenticate the first temporary wireless connection with the recipient device based on a physical presence test or an authorization code. In some examples, the display terminal is configured to terminate one or more of the first temporary wireless connection with the recipient device or the second temporary wireless connection with the remote server based on at least one of user input received via the display terminal or the recipient device, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

[0103] In some examples of the method 700, the recipient device is an implantable recipient device, a hearing device, or a medical device, and the display terminal is an Internet of Things (loT) device, a smart television, a smart appliance, or apublicly-accessible display device. The short-range wireless communication can occur, for example, using Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, near-field communication (NFC), LPWAN, ultra- wideband (UWB) and IEEE 802.15.4, magnetic induction, etc. Remote access can occur, for example, using conventional or future cellular communication mechanisms, other types of WANs, including other types of Wireless Wide Area Network (WWANs), etc.Changes to Settings Requiring Remote Connectivity (Remote Connection Via Recipient Device)

[0104] Conventional implantable components (implantable medical devices) do not have remote access capabilities (e.g., cannot direct access WAN, LAN, etc.) and, instead, must rely on a paired / tethered device for remote access. For example, certain conventional implantable medical devices have a short-range wireless transceiver for connection to a paired mobile phone, which in turn has Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN) access (e.g., using cellular technology). As described further below, certain aspects of the techniques presented herein leverage evolving technologies to provide an implantable medical device having integratedremote access. This integrated remote access direct could come in a number of different forms, such as via an integrated Wi-Fi module (e.g., integrated Wi-Fi chip), a Narrowband Internet of things (NB-IoT) module (e.g., a chip using NB-IoT technology) a Long Term Evolution Machine Type Communication (LTE-M or LTE-MTC) module (e.g., a chip using LTE-M technologies), another type of low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) module, a cellular module (e.g., cellular radio), etc. FIGs. 8A and 8B illustrate one such example implementation.

[0105] More specifically, as shown in FIGs. 8A and 8B, the recipient device (e.g., an implantable recipient device, a hearing device, a medical device, etc.) has built-in remote access (e.g., built-in WAN access, such as cellular access, built-in LAN access, etc.) to remotely access device parameters, operational settings, and other device-specific information stored in a remote device / server. In this example, the display and manipulation of device settings can be implemented by the recipient device accessing a remote server over a WAN. Likewise, the built-in remote access capabilities of the recipient device can also be used to deliver updated device settings and other device-related information to the remote server for storage in this example.

[0106] FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating an example system 800 including a recipient device 802, an independent display terminal 810, and a remote device 870, also referred to herein as a remote server 870, according to an example embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8 A, the recipient device 802 includes RF communications module 822, processor 825 (provides API), and memory 827 (stores device data, instructions, etc.). In this specific example, the recipient device 802 also includes a remote access module 874. The independent display terminal 810 includes controller 882 (generic app), RF communications module 886, and display screen 890. The recipient device 802 is configured to establish a temporary wireless connection 826 with the RF communications module 886 of the independent display terminal 810 over a public wireless network (e.g., BLE) via the RF communications module 822.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 8A, the remote server 870 includes a processor 871 (provides remote app), a memory 873 (stores device data, instructions, device settings / parameters, etc.), a wireless communications module 875, and a user interface 877 (input / output). In this example, the recipient device 802 is configured to establish a wireless connection 876 with the wireless communications module 875 of the remote server 870 over a WAN via the remote access module 874.

[0108] FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the system 800, in which the recipient device 802 is a cochlear implant system including a cochlear implant 812 (internal component) and a sound processing unit 806 (external component). One or both of the cochlear implant 812 and / or the sound processing unit 806 can include an RF communications module for establishing the temporary wireless connection 826 with the independent display terminal 810 over the public wireless network (e.g., BLE). As shown in FIG. 8B, one or both of the cochlear implant 812 and / or the sound processing unit 806 of the recipient device 802 also includes a remote access module 874 (e.g., 874A and / or 874B in the example of FIG. 8B) for establishing the wireless connection 876 with the remote server 870 over the WAN (e.g., a cellular network).

[0109] In this embodiment, changes are made to the device parameters, operational settings, or other device-specific information of the recipient device 802 that require remote access to the remote server 870, as in the previous embodiment. However, in this example, the independent display terminal 810 (e.g., loT device with a screen) does not have remote access (connectivity) to the remote server 870, but rather the recipient device 802 has remote access y to the remote server 870 (e.g., via a built-in eSIM for cellular connectivity, integrated Wi-Fi module, NB-IoT module, LTE-M module, etc.). As such, in this embodiment, all remote communication of the changes / data will occur via the direct connection that the recipient device 802 itself has with the remote server 870. In other words, the independent display terminal 810 with which the recipient device 802 is temporarily connected acts only as a graphical user interface (GUI) for allowing the device settings to be displayed and viewed by the recipient, and for desired changes to be made with respect to the device settings by the recipient via the interactive device-specific interface 892. Stated differently, a “virtual app” is enabled by access to the remote application at the remote server 870 and the use of the independent display terminal 810 to display the interactive device-specific interface 892. As noted, the temporary wireless connection 876 between the recipient device 802 and the remote server 870 can be, for example, a direct WAN or LAN connection.[oono] FIG. 9A is a flowchart illustrating an example method 900 according to an example embodiment. Method 900 can be implemented using the system 800 including the recipient device 802 and the independent display terminal 810 described above with reference to FIGs. 8A-8B, for example. At operation 912, method 900 includes a recipient device establishing a first temporary wireless connection with a display terminal, via a first wireless communications interface, using a short-range wireless communications protocol. At operation 914, method900 includes the recipient device establishing a second wireless connection with a remote server, via a second wireless communications interface (e.g., using a cellular communications protocol). At operation 922, method 900 includes the recipient device communicating with the display terminal, via the first temporary wireless connection, to initiate a user interface session for managing device settings (and accessing the remote server). At operation 924, method 900 includes the recipient device communicating with the remote server, via the second wireless connection, to obtain information regarding operational settings of the recipient device that can be adjusted and instructions regarding how each of the operational settings can be adjusted.[ooni] At operation 932, method 900 further includes the recipient device transmitting, via the first temporary wireless connection, the information regarding the operational settings and adjustments to the display terminal for display at the display terminal. It should be appreciated that the order of operations 912, 914, 922, and 924 of the method 900 of FIG. 9A can occur in various different sequential orders, prior to operation 932.

[0112] FIG. 9B is flowchart illustrating an example method 950, according to an example embodiment. The method 950 of FIG. 9B is an extension of the method 900 of FIG. 9A, and can also be implemented using the system 800 including the recipient device 802 and the independent display terminal 810 described above with reference to FIGs. 8A-8B, for example. At operation 952, method 950 includes the recipient device receiving, via the first temporary wireless connection, an indication from the display terminal regarding one or more adjustment(s) to one or more operational setting(s) of the recipient device (based on user input received at the display terminal). At operation 953, method 950 includes the recipient device adjusting the one or more operational setting(s) of the recipient device based on the indication of the one or more adjustment(s) received from the display terminal. At operation 954, method 950 further includes the recipient device communicating with the remote server, via the second wireless connection, to update the remote server with the one or more adjustment(s) to the one or more operational setting(s) of the recipient device.

[0113] In some examples of the methods 900 and 950, the recipient device is an implantable recipient device, a hearing device, or a medical device, and the display terminal is an Internet of Things (loT) device, a smart television, a smart appliance, or a publicly-accessible display device. The short-range wireless communication can occur, for example, using Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, near-field communication (NFC), LPWAN, ultra- wideband (UWB) and IEEE 802.15.4, etc. Cellular communication can occur, for example, using conventional or future cellular communication mechanisms.

[0114] In some examples of the methods 900 and 950, the information and instructions associated with the operational settings that are transmitted from the recipient device to the display terminal cause the display terminal to display an interactive device -specific interface that enables viewing and adjustment of the operational settings. In some examples, the operational settings of the recipient device that can be adjusted include at least a volume setting, a sensitivity setting, and a forward focus setting, and the recipient device is configured to at least one of: increase or decrease the volume setting of the recipient device according to a first user input received via the interactive device-specific interface of the display terminal; increase or decrease the sensitivity setting of the recipient device according to a second user input received via the interactive device-specific interface of the display terminal; or enable or disable the forward focus setting of the recipient device according to a third user input received via the interactive device-specific interface of the display terminal. In some other examples, the operational settings of the recipient device include one or more of map data, number of maxima, current levels, channel rates, impedance data, and diagnostic data, and the recipient device is configured to adjust one or more of the map data, the number of maxima, the current levels, the channel rates, the impedance data, or the diagnostic data according to the user input received via the interactive device-specific interface of the display terminal that indicates the one or more adjustments.

[0115] In certain embodiments, the method 950 of FIG. 9B can further include the recipient device terminating one or more of the first temporary wireless connection with the display terminal or the second wireless connection with the remote server based on at least one of a recipient command received via the recipient device or the display terminal, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

[0116] Thus, the system, devices, and operations according to the various example embodiments described herein can be used to provide an “anywhere interface,” referred to herein as an interactive device-specific interface, for viewing and controlling device settings for recipient devices, such as implantable recipient devices, hearing devices, medical devices, etc., in a manner that is more flexible and convenient for the recipient. As explained above, the recipient device and the independent display terminal do not need a dedicated “persistent” wireless connection / link (i.e., they are not “paired” devices), but rather can use a generic “temporary” wireless connection / link to communicate for at least the purpose of displaying and managing device settings. In certain examples, the recipient device can tell the display terminal what to display and what the recipient commands should do (e.g., via the API of therecipient device). For example, the recipient device informs the display terminal what settings / parameters can be adjusted, and what the corresponding options for those adjustments are, and the independent display terminal is configured to translate / understand the API of the recipient device being controlled by the recipient. In other examples, the remote server informs the display terminal how to present the interactive device-specific interface via the remote application.

[0117] Since the recipient can have a direct temporary wireless connection to the remote server via the recipient device and the independent display terminal (e.g., using cellular communications), there is no need to store anything on the independent display terminal (or alternatively, on a “paired” mobile device of the recipient) and the overall user experience is improved compared to conventional recipient device management techniques. For example, there is no need to always carry a particular paired mobile device, to download a specific dedicated mobile application, nor to have any sensitive personal information stored on the independent display terminal (or on a “paired” mobile device of the recipient).

[0118] A further advantage provided by the techniques described herein is that the recipient is not tethered to any specific device. The recipient device itself is used as the “center” of the system, and the independent display terminal is just an extension that can be used to display device settings for controlling the recipient device. The API to the recipient device (and / or the remote application of the remote server) can be used to provide an interactive device-specific interface anywhere the recipient is located (i.e., at any location where there is wireless network connectivity) via any independent display terminal (e.g., any suitable loT device with a screen and wireless capabilities) in spatial proximity to the user, such that the display terminal displays a graphical user interface screen having a familiar appearance with which the recipient can interact to adjust or otherwise manipulate various device parameters, operational settings, or other device-specific information.

[0119] In summary, the systems, devices, components, and techniques described above provide several advantages over conventional solutions for managing settings of recipient devices, such as implantable recipient devices, hearing devices, medical devices, etc. including eliminating the need to carry a “paired” mobile device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet, a dedicated remote -control device, etc.) at all times, and eliminating the need for a permanent mobile application installation. For example, a dedicated mobile app is not needed because the remote server will provide all relevant device-related data, and the independent display terminal (e.g., loT device, etc.) will display the device -related data to the recipient of the recipient device viathe interactive device-specific interface, thereby avoiding the risks that come with storing device settings and other device-related information on paired mobile devices. Another benefit of the techniques described herein is to ensure that device parameters, operational settings, and other device-specific information stored in the remote server will stay updated with current information.

[0120] As previously described, the technology disclosed herein can be applied in any of a variety of circumstances and with a variety of different devices. Example devices that can benefit from technology disclosed herein are described in more detail in FIGS. 10 and 11. The techniques of the present disclosure can be applied to other devices, such as neurostimulators, cardiac pacemakers, cardiac defibrillators, sleep apnea management stimulators, seizure therapy stimulators, tinnitus management stimulators, and vestibular stimulation devices, as well as other recipient devices that deliver stimulation to tissue. Further, technology described herein can also be applied to consumer devices. These different systems and devices can benefit from the technology described herein.

[0121] FIG. 10 illustrates an example vestibular stimulator system 1002, with which embodiments presented herein can be implemented. As shown, the vestibular stimulator system 1002 comprises an implantable component (vestibular stimulator) 1012 and an external device 1004 (e.g., external processing device, battery charger, remote control, external component, etc.). The external device 1004 comprises a transceiver unit 1060. As such, the external device 1004 is configured to transfer data (and potentially power) to the vestibular stimulator 1012.

[0122] The vestibular stimulator 1012 comprises an implant body (main module) 1034, a lead region 1036, and a stimulating assembly 1016, all configured to be implanted under the skin / tissue (tissue) 1015 of the recipient. The implant body 1034 generally comprises a hermetically-sealed housing 1038 in which RF interface circuitry, one or more rechargeable batteries, one or more processors, and a stimulator unit are disposed. The implant body 1034 also includes an intemal / implantable coil 1014 that is generally external to the housing 1038, but which is connected to the transceiver via a hermetic feedthrough (not shown).

[0123] The stimulating assembly 1016 comprises a plurality of electrodes 1044( l)-(3) disposed in a carrier member (e.g., a flexible silicone body). In this specific example, the stimulating assembly 1016 comprises three (3) stimulation electrodes, referred to as stimulation electrodes 1044(1), 1044(2), and 1044(3). The stimulation electrodes 1044(1), 1044(2), and 1044(3)function as an electrical interface for delivery of electrical stimulation signals to the recipient’s vestibular system.

[0124] The stimulating assembly 1016 is configured such that a surgeon can implant the stimulating assembly adjacent the recipient’s otolith organs via, for example, the recipient’s oval window. It is to be appreciated that this specific embodiment with three stimulation electrodes is merely illustrative and that the techniques presented herein can be used with stimulating assemblies having different numbers of stimulation electrodes, stimulating assemblies having different lengths, etc.

[0125] In operation, the vestibular stimulator 1012, possibly in combination with the external device 1004, and / or another external device (e.g., an independent display terminal), can be configured to implement the techniques presented herein.

[0126] FIG. 11 illustrates a retinal prosthesis system 1101 that comprises an external device 1110 (which can correspond to the independent display terminal, as described above) configured to communicate with an implantable retinal prosthesis 1100 via signals 1151. The retinal prosthesis 1100 comprises an implanted processing module 1125 and a retinal prosthesis sensor-stimulator 1190 is positioned proximate the retina of a recipient. The external device 1110 and the processing module 1125 can communicate via coils 1108, 1114.

[0127] In an example, sensory inputs (e.g., photons entering the eye) are absorbed by a microelectronic array of the sensor-stimulator 1190 that is hybridized to a glass piece 1192 including, for example, an embedded array of microwires. The glass can have a curved surface that conforms to the inner radius of the retina. The sensor-stimulator 1190 can include a microelectronic imaging device that can be made of thin silicon containing integrated circuitry that convert the incident photons to an electronic charge.

[0128] The processing module 1125 includes an image processor 1123 that is in signal communication with the sensor-stimulator 1190 via, for example, a lead 1188 which extends through surgical incision 1189 formed in the eye wall. In other examples, processing module 1125 is in wireless communication with the sensor-stimulator 1190. The image processor 1123 processes the input into the sensor-stimulator 1190, and provides control signals back to the sensor-stimulator 1190 so the device can provide an output to the optic nerve. That said, in an alternate example, the processing is executed by a component proximate to, or integrated with, the sensor-stimulator 1190. The electric charge resulting from the conversion of the incident photons is converted to a proportional amount of electronic current which is input to a nearbyretinal cell layer. The cells fire and a signal is sent to the optic nerve, thus inducing a sight perception.

[0129] The processing module 1125 can be implanted in the recipient and function by communicating with the external device 1110, such as a behind-the-ear unit, a pair of eyeglasses, etc. The external device 1110 can include an external light / image capture device (e.g., located in / on a behind-the-ear device or a pair of glasses, etc.), while, as noted above, in some examples, the sensor-stimulator 1190 captures light / images, which sensor-stimulator is implanted in the recipient.

[0130] Next, various example embodiments will now be described with reference to the method flowcharts of FIGs. 12, 13, 14, and 15, respectively.

[0131] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of an example method 1200, according to an example embodiment. At operation 1210, method 1200 includes identifying, at a recipient device, an independent display terminal in spatial proximity to the recipient device. At operation 1220, method 1200 includes wirelessly sending data from the recipient device to the independent display terminal. The independent display terminal is configured to use the data to generate an interactive device -specific interface at the independent display terminal for enabling a recipient to control operational settings of the recipient device.

[0132] The identifying in operation 1210 is initiated in response to a recipient command, such as a voice command or a user input received at the recipient device (e.g., a tap input, a touch input, a button, etc.). In certain embodiments, the method 1200 further includes establishing a temporary wireless connection with the independent display terminal, after operation 1210.

[0133] In some examples, the data includes data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device, and the interactive device -specific interface includes a visible indication of the one or more operational settings and an input interface for enabling the recipient to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device using the independent display terminal, in response to operation 1220.

[0134] In some examples, the method 1200 further includes wirelessly receiving the data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device from a remote server associated with the recipient device, at the recipient device. In some other examples, the independent display terminal is configured to use the data from the recipient device to contact a remote server associated with the recipient device, to obtain remote data representing one ormore operational settings of the recipient device from the remote server, and to generate the interactive device -specific interface using the remote data obtained from the remote server.

[0135] In some examples, the method 1200 further includes wirelessly receiving adjustment data associated with at least one operational setting of the recipient device from the independent display terminal at the recipient device, and adjusting the at least one operational setting at the recipient device based on the adjustment data.

[0136] In some examples, the method 1200 further includes terminating the temporary wireless connection with the recipient device in response to a recipient command received at the independent display terminal or the recipient device, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

[0137] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of an example method 1300, according to an example embodiment. At operation 1310, method 1300 includes wirelessly receiving data associated with a recipient device at an independent display terminal in spatial proximity to the recipient device. At operation 1320, method 1300 includes using the data to generate an interactive device-specific interface at the independent display terminal for enabling a recipient to control operational settings of the recipient device.

[0138] In certain embodiments, the method 1300 further includes establishing a temporary wireless connection with the recipient device, which is initiated in response to a recipient command. In some examples, the data associated with the recipient device includes data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device, and operation 1320 includes using the data representing the one or more operational settings to generate a visible indication of the one or more operational settings and an input interface for enabling the recipient to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device using the independent display terminal.

[0139] In some examples, the method 1300 further includes receiving, at the independent display terminal via the interactive device -specific interface, user input indicating at least one adjustment to at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device, and generating adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment to the at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device based on the user input. In such examples, the method 1300 further includes wirelessly sending, from the independent display terminal, the adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment to the at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device to the recipient device for implementation.

[0140] In some examples, the method 1300 further includes terminating the temporary wireless connection with the recipient device in response to a recipient command received at the independent display terminal or the recipient device, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

[0141] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of an example method 1400, according to an example embodiment. At operation 1410, method 1400 includes establishing a first wireless connection with a recipient device at an independent display terminal. At operation 1420, method 1400 includes receiving, at the independent display terminal via the first wireless connection, data from the recipient device. At operation 1430, method 1400 includes using the data to generate an interactive device-specific interface at the independent display terminal for enabling a recipient to control operational settings of the recipient device.

[0142] In certain embodiments, the first wireless connection is a temporary wireless connection that is established in response to a recipient command. In some examples, the data includes data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device, and operation 1430 includes displaying a visible indication of the one or more operational settings and an input interface for enabling the recipient to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device using the independent display terminal.

[0143] In some other examples, the data includes data identifying the recipient device and information for accessing a remote server associated with the recipient device, and operation 1430 includes using the data to establish a second wireless connection with the remote server associated with the recipient device at the independent display terminal, obtaining, at the independent display terminal via the second wireless connection, remote data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the remote server, and generating the interactive device -specific interface using the remote data obtained from the remote server.

[0144] In some examples, the method 1400 further includes receiving, at the independent display terminal via the interactive device -specific interface, user input indicating at least one adjustment to the at least one operational setting of the recipient device, generating adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment to the at least one operational setting of the recipient device based on the user input, and sending, from the independent display terminal via the first wireless connection, the adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment to the at least one operational setting to the recipient device for implementation.

[0145] In some examples, the first wireless connection with the recipient device and the second wireless connection with the remote server are temporary wireless connections, and the method 1400 further includes terminating the first wireless connection with the recipient device and the second wireless connection with the remote server in response to a recipient command received at the independent display terminal or the recipient device, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

[0146] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of an example method 1500, according to an example embodiment. At operation 1510, method 1500 includes establishing a first wireless connection with an independent display terminal at a recipient device. At operation 1520, method 1500 includes sending, from the recipient device via the first wireless connection, data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device to the independent display terminal.

[0147] In some examples, the data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device is configured to cause the independent display terminal to generate an interactive device-specific interface including a visible indication of the one or more operational settings and an input interface for enabling a recipient to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device.

[0148] In some examples, the method 1500 can further include establishing a second wireless connection with a remote server at the recipient device, and receiving, at the recipient device via the second wireless connection, remote data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the remote server, for transmission to the independent display terminal to generate the interactive device -specific interface.

[0149] In the example of FIG. 15, method 1500 further includes receiving, at the recipient device via the first wireless connection, adjustment data indicating at least one adjustment to at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the independent display terminal, at operation 1530, and adjusting the at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device based on the adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment, at operation 1540.

[0150] In some examples, the first wireless connection with the independent display terminal is a temporary wireless connection established in response to a first recipient command, and the method 1500 further includes terminating the first wireless connection with the independent display terminal in response to a second recipient command received at the recipient device orthe independent display terminal, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

[0151] As should be appreciated, while particular uses of the technology have been illustrated and discussed above, the disclosed technology can be used with a variety of devices in accordance with many examples of the technology. The above discussion is not meant to suggest that the disclosed technology is only suitable for implementation within systems akin to that illustrated in the figures. In general, additional configurations can be used to practice the processes and systems herein and / or some aspects described can be excluded without departing from the processes and systems disclosed herein.

[0152] This disclosure described some aspects of the present technology with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which only some of the possible aspects were shown. Other aspects can, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein. Rather, these aspects were provided so that this disclosure was thorough and complete and fully conveyed the scope of the possible aspects to those skilled in the art.

[0153] As should be appreciated, the various aspects (e.g., portions, components, etc.) described with respect to the figures herein are not intended to limit the systems and processes to the particular aspects described. Accordingly, additional configurations can be used to practice the methods and systems herein and / or some aspects described can be excluded without departing from the methods and systems disclosed herein.

[0154] According to certain aspects, systems and non-transitory computer readable storage media are provided. The systems are configured with hardware configured to execute operations analogous to the methods of the present disclosure. The one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media comprise instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute operations analogous to the methods of the present disclosure.

[0155] Similarly, where steps of a process are disclosed, those steps are described for purposes of illustrating the present methods and systems and are not intended to limit the disclosure to a particular sequence of steps. For example, the steps can be performed in differing order, two or more steps can be performed concurrently, additional steps can be performed, and disclosed steps can be excluded without departing from the present disclosure. Further, the disclosed processes can be repeated.

[0156] Although specific aspects were described herein, the scope of the technology is not limited to those specific aspects. One skilled in the art will recognize other aspects or improvements that are within the scope of the present technology. Therefore, the specific structure, acts, or media are disclosed only as illustrative aspects. The scope of the technology is defined by the following claims and any equivalents therein.

[0157] It is also to be appreciated that the embodiments presented herein are not mutually exclusive and that the various embodiments can be combined with another in any of a number of different manners.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method comprising : identifying, at a recipient device, an independent display terminal in spatial proximity to the recipient device; and wirelessly sending data from the recipient device to the independent display terminal; wherein the independent display terminal is configured to use the data to generate an interactive device -specific interface at the independent display terminal for enabling a recipient to control operational settings of the recipient device.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein identifying the independent display terminal is initiated in response to a recipient command.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the recipient command is a voice command.

4. The method of claim 2, wherein the recipient command is a user input received at the recipient device.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, after identifying the independent display terminal, the method further comprises: establishing a temporary wireless connection with the independent display terminal.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: terminating the temporary wireless connection with the independent display terminal in response to a recipient command received at the recipient device or the independent display terminal, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

7. The method of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein the data includes data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device, and wherein the interactive devicespecific interface includes a visible indication of the one or more operational settings and aninput interface for enabling the recipient to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device using the independent display terminal.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising: wirelessly receiving the data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device, from a remote server associated with the recipient device, at the recipient device.

9. The method of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein the independent display terminal is configured to use the data from the recipient device to contact a remote server associated with the recipient device, to obtain remote data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the remote server, and to generate the interactive device-specific interface using the remote data obtained from the remote server.

10. The method of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, further comprising: wirelessly receiving adjustment data associated with at least one operational setting of the recipient device from the independent display terminal at the recipient device; and adjusting the at least one operational setting at the recipient device based on the adjustment data.

11. The method of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, further comprising: wirelessly receiving adjustment data associated with at least one operational setting of the recipient device from the independent display terminal at the recipient device; and sending the adjustment data to remote server.

12. The method of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, further comprising: wirelessly receiving, at the recipient device, setting data associated with the recipient device from a remote server; and sending the setting data to the independent display for use in the interactive devicespecific interface.

13. The method of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein the recipient device comprises at least one of an implantable recipient device, a hearing device, or a medical device.

14. The method of claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6. wherein the independent display terminal comprises at least one of an Intemet-of-Things (loT) device, a smart appliance, a smart television, or a publicly-accessible display device.

15. An apparatus, comprising: a memory; a wireless transceiver configured to establish a temporary wireless connection with a recipient device in spatial proximity to the apparatus and to wirelessly receive data associated with the recipient device in via the temporary wireless connection; a display device; and at least one processor configured to use the data associated with a recipient device to generate an interactive device-specific interface at the display device, wherein the interactive device-specific interface is configured to enable a user to control operational settings of the recipient device.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the wireless transceiver is configured to terminate the temporary wireless connection with the recipient device in response to a recipient command received at the apparatus or the recipient device.

17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the wireless transceiver is configured to terminate the temporary wireless connection upon detection of a predetermined event.

18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the wireless transceiver is configured to terminate the temporary wireless connection upon expiration of a predetermined time period.

19. The apparatus of claim 15, 16, 17, or 18, wherein the data associated with the recipient device includes data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device, and wherein the at least one processor is configured to use the data to: generate a visible indication of the one or more operational settings at the display device, and generate an input interface for enabling the user to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein upon receipt, via the input interface, one or more user inputs indicating at least one adjustment to at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device, the at least one processor is configured to: generate adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment to the at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device based on the user input.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the wireless transceiver is configured to: wirelessly send the adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment to the at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device to the recipient device for implementation.

22. The apparatus of claim 15, 16, 17, or 18, wherein the recipient device comprises at least one of an implantable recipient device, a hearing device, or a medical device, and wherein the apparatus comprises at least one of an Intemet-of-Things (loT) device, a smart appliance, a smart television, or a publicly-accessible display device.

23. A method comprising: establishing a first wireless connection with a recipient device at an independent display terminal; receiving, at the independent display terminal via the first wireless connection, data from the recipient device; and using the data to generate an interactive device-specific interface at the independent display terminal for enabling a recipient to control operational settings of the recipient device.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first wireless connection is a temporary wireless connection that is established in response to a recipient command.

25. The method of claim 23, wherein the data includes data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device, and wherein using the data to generate an interactive device -specific interface at the independent display terminal comprises: displaying a visible indication of the one or more operational settings and an input interface for enabling the recipient to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device using the independent display terminal.

26. The method of claim 23, 24, or 25, wherein the data includes data identifying the recipient device and information for accessing a remote server associated with the recipient device, and wherein using the data to generate an interactive device -specific interface at the independent display terminal comprises: using the data to establish a second wireless connection with the remote server associated with the recipient device at the independent display terminal; obtaining, at the independent display terminal via the second wireless connection, remote data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the remote server; and generating the interactive device-specific interface using the remote data obtained from the remote server.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the first wireless connection with the recipient device and the second wireless connection with the remote server are temporary wireless connections, the method further comprising: terminating the first wireless connection with the recipient device and the second wireless connection with the remote server in response to a recipient command received at the independent display terminal or the recipient device, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

28. The method of claim 23, 24, or 25, further comprising: receiving, at the independent display terminal via the interactive device-specific interface, user input indicating at least one adjustment to at least one operational setting of the recipient device; generating adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment to the at least one operational setting of the recipient device based on the user input; and sending, from the independent display terminal via the first wireless connection, the adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment to the at least one operational setting to the recipient device for implementation.

29. One or more non-transitory computer readable storage media comprising instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, are configured to: establish a first wireless connection with an independent display terminal at a recipient device; andsend, from the recipient device via the first wireless connection, data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device to the independent display terminal.

30. The one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 29, wherein the data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device is configured to cause the independent display terminal to generate an interactive device-specific interface including a visible indication of the one or more operational settings and an input interface for enabling a recipient to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device using the independent display terminal.

31. The one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 29 or 30, further comprising instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, are configured: establish a second wireless connection with a remote server at the recipient device; and receive, at the recipient device via the second wireless connection, remote data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the remote server for transmission to the independent display terminal to generate the interactive devicespecific interface.

32. The one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 29 or 30, further comprising instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, are configured: receive, at the recipient device via the first wireless connection, adjustment data indicating at least one adjustment to at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device from the independent display terminal; and adjust the at least one of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device based on the adjustment data indicating the at least one adjustment.

33. The one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media of claim 29 or 30, wherein the first wireless connection with the independent display terminal is a temporary wireless connection established in response to a first recipient command, the one or more non-transitory computer readable storage media further comprising instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, are configured:terminate the first wireless connection with the independent display terminal in response to a second recipient command received at the recipient device or the independent display terminal, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

34. A method, comprising: at a recipient device: identifying a display terminal in spatial proximity to the recipient device; establishing a first wireless connection with a display terminal; receiving data representing one or more operational settings of the recipient device from a remote server via a second wireless connection; and sending the data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device to the display terminal.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the data representing the one or more operational settings of the recipient device is configured to cause the display terminal to generate an interactive device -specific interface including a visible indication of the one or more operational settings and an input interface for enabling a recipient to adjust each of the one or more operational settings of the recipient device using the display terminal.

36. The method of claim 34 or 35, wherein identifying the display terminal is initiated in response to a recipient command.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein the recipient command is a voice command.

38. The method of claim 36, wherein the recipient command is a user input received at the recipient device.

39. The method of claim 36, further comprising: terminating the first wireless connection with the display terminal in response to a recipient command received at the recipient device or the display terminal, or automatically upon detection of a predetermined event or expiration of a predetermined time period.

40. The method of claim 36, further comprising:wirelessly receiving adjustment data associated with at least one operational setting of the recipient device from the display terminal at the recipient device; and adjusting the at least one operational setting at the recipient device based on the adjustment data.

41. The method of claim 40, further comprising: sending the adjustment data to the remote server via the second wireless connection.

42. The method of claim 36, wherein the recipient device comprises at least one of an implantable recipient device, a hearing device, or a medical device.

43. An implantable medical device, comprising: a memory; a first wireless transceiver configured to establish a first wireless connection with a display device in spatial proximity to implantable medical device and to wirelessly receive data associated with the implantable medical device in via the first wireless connection; a second wireless transceiver configured to establish a second connection with a remote server; and at least one processor configured to receive data associated with the implantable medical device from the remote server, and to send, using the first wireless transceiver, the data associated with the implantable medical device to a display terminal for use in generating an interactive device-specific interface at the display device, wherein the interactive device-specific interface is configured to enable a user to control operational settings of the implantable medical device.

44. The implantable medical device of claim 43, wherein the first wireless transceiver is a short-range wireless transceiver.

45. The implantable medical device of claim 44, wherein the short-range wireless transceiver is at least one of a Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy transceiver.

46. The implantable medical device of claim 44, wherein the short-range wireless transceiver is a magnetic induction transceiver.

47. The implantable medical device of claim 43, wherein the second wireless transceiver is a cellular transceiver.

48. The implantable medical device of claim 43, 44, 45,46, or 47, wherein at least one of the first wireless transceiver, the second wireless transceiver, or a third wireless transceiver of the implantable medical device is configured to establish a third wireless connection with another device.

49. The implantable medical device of claim 48, wherein the another device is at least one of an external device or a second implantable medical device.

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