Device for treating a tinnitus disease in a user, and method, computer-readable medium and computer program therefor

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1a, 1b, 1i.1iii) for tinnitus analysis, for automatically deriving a tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) from a tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and for treating a tinnitus disease in a user, comprising means (6) for outputting an audio signal (AUD) and a controller (6a, 6b) for triggering output of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) as the audio signal (AUD). The tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) has a therapy base sound (T1), the frequency (f) of which is modulated around the tinnitus frequency (f1). The invention also relates to a method, a computer program product and a computer-readable medium for carrying out said steps.

Description

[0001] Device for the treatment of a user's tinnitus disorder, as well as method, computer-readable medium and computer program for this purpose.

[0002] TECHNICAL AREA

[0003] The invention relates to a device for the treatment of a user's tinnitus. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating said device. Finally, the invention relates to a computer program product and a computer-readable medium on which said computer program is stored.

[0004] STATE OF THE ART

[0005] A device, a method, a computer program product, and a computer-readable medium of the aforementioned type are generally known in the prior art. In tinnitus, the patient hears a sound that is not actually present. This can often be a sine tone (tonal tinnitus). A multitude of different approaches exist for treating tinnitus, but these are often only partially effective in curing the condition or even reducing its symptoms.

[0006] REVELATION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] One object of the invention is therefore to provide an improved device, an improved method, an improved computer-readable medium and an improved computer program for use in the therapy of a user's tinnitus disease.

[0008] The object of the invention is solved by a device of the type mentioned at the outset, in which the tinnitus therapy noise has a basic therapy noise whose frequency is modulated around the tinnitus frequency.

[0009] In a first embodiment, the device comprises:

[0010] Audio output device for outputting a tinnitus comparison sound or a tinnitus therapy sound as an audio signal, input device for capturing user input, and a control system designed to...

[0011] -) to capture at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input means and to trigger an output of the tinnitus comparison sound based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio output means, wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency of the tinnitus comparison sound (and wherein the output of the tinnitus comparison sound is in particular continuously adapted to an update of the captured tinnitus comparison parameter);

[0012] -) to trigger the detection of a tinnitus confirmation for a match or at least a strong similarity between the tinnitus comparison sound and a tinnitus actual sound perceived by the user via the input devices,

[0013] -) to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound and / or from at least one assigned tinnitus comparison parameter and

[0014] -) to trigger an output of the tinnitus therapy sound via the audio output device.

[0015] In a second embodiment, the device comprises:

[0016] Audio output device for outputting a tinnitus comparison sound as an audio signal,

[0017] Input device for capturing user input,

[0018] Transmitting device for sending a tinnitus therapy sound or at least a tinnitus therapy parameter of the tinnitus therapy sound and a control unit which is designed to

[0019] -) to capture at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input means and to trigger an output of the tinnitus comparison sound based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio output means, wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency of the tinnitus comparison sound (and wherein the output of the tinnitus comparison sound is in particular continuously adapted to an update of the captured tinnitus comparison parameter);

[0020] -) to trigger the detection of a tinnitus confirmation for a match or at least a strong similarity between a tinnitus comparison sound and a tinnitus actual sound perceived by the user via the input devices,

[0021] -) to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound and / or from at least one assigned tinnitus comparison parameter and

[0022] -) to trigger the transmission of the tinnitus therapy sound or the transmission of at least one tinnitus therapy parameter of the tinnitus therapy sound to a tinnitus therapy device for the purpose of outputting the tinnitus therapy sound using the transmitting means, wherein the at least one tinnitus therapy parameter is a tinnitus frequency of the tinnitus comparison sound.

[0023] In a third embodiment, the device comprises:

[0024] Audio output device for outputting a tinnitus therapy sound as an audio signal,

[0025] Receiving means for receiving a tinnitus comparison sound, for which a user has confirmed a match or at least a strong similarity with a perceived tinnitus sound, or for receiving at least one tinnitus comparison parameter of the tinnitus comparison sound, wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency of the tinnitus comparison sound, and a control unit designed to

[0026] -) to trigger the reception of the tinnitus comparison sound and / or the reception of at least one tinnitus comparison parameter from a tinnitus analysis device via the receiving means,

[0027] -) to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound from the tinnitus comparison sound and / or from at least one tinnitus comparison parameter and

[0028] -) to trigger an output of the tinnitus therapy sound via the audio output device.

[0029] Furthermore, the object of the invention is achieved by a method of the type mentioned at the outset, wherein the control unit is configured to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound from the confirmed tinnitus comparison noise and / or from the at least one associated tinnitus comparison parameter. The method may also include further steps performed by the control unit of the device. In general, steps triggered by the control unit can also be controlled by it. Therefore, the term "triggering" in the present disclosure can conceptually be replaced by "controlling".

[0030] Furthermore, the object of the invention is solved by a computer program product that includes commands which cause the control of a device of the above-mentioned type to execute the described process steps.

[0031] Finally, the problem of the invention is solved by a computer-readable medium on which the said computer program is stored.

[0032] Generally, sound is converted into neural impulses in the inner ear and transmitted via nerve pathways to corresponding brain regions. These nerve pathways, and the corresponding brain regions, are organized according to frequency or pitch. The development of tinnitus can be explained by the fact that the brain region associated with a damaged hearing range attempts to compensate for this damage by amplifying the perceived volume level. While this is ultimately unsuccessful, it results in a kind of self-oscillation within the affected hearing range, leading to the perception of a non-existent sound.

[0033] The proposed mechanism of action is based on the insight that stimulating nerve pathways and brain regions located adjacent to damaged nerve pathways and brain regions can also have an effect on the damaged nerve pathways and brain regions themselves. Specifically, an effect similar to lateral inhibition, known from optics, is assumed. In optics, neighboring brain regions are attenuated by low-intensity signals to achieve a dynamic amplification. Applied to acoustics, this means the following: If, for example, a tone at a frequency of 2500 Hz is perceived very quietly, then lateral inhibition leads to a weakening of perception at adjacent frequencies, such as 2495 Hz and 2505 Hz. This allows the tone at 2500 Hz to be perceived more clearly; thus, an artificial dynamic amplification occurs in the brain.Conversely, this also means that stimulation at 2495 Hz and 2505 Hz at low volume leads to a reduction in perception at 2500 Hz. According to this theory, if the tinnitus frequency is 2500 Hz, the tinnitus will also be attenuated. Tests have shown that, depending on the duration and severity of the condition, an effect is sometimes noticeable to patients after just a few minutes of treatment. However, several treatments are generally required for lasting relief.

[0034] The following section will discuss in more detail the measures for treating a user's tinnitus condition:

[0035] The three previously mentioned versions all share the following characteristics, in addition to the specific type of tinnitus therapy sound: a first step for tinnitus analysis (i.e., identifying a tinnitus sound and, based on this, setting a tinnitus comparison sound), a second step for automatically deriving a tinnitus therapy sound based on the tinnitus analysis, and a third step for tinnitus therapy (i.e., outputting the therapy sound). In the first version mentioned above, the presented device performs all three steps; in the second version, it performs the first and second steps; and in the third version, it performs the second and third steps.In the second version, the third step is performed by a separate tinnitus therapy device (an output device for a tinnitus therapy sound), and in the third version, the first step is performed by a separate tinnitus analysis device (a recording device for a tinnitus comparison sound). The tinnitus analysis can be performed by the user themselves or, for example, by a specialist in a hearing lab.

[0036] In the second and third embodiments, a data interface is provided between the disclosed device and the tinnitus therapy device, and between the tinnitus analysis device and the disclosed device, respectively. This interface can be wired or wireless. In the second embodiment, the tinnitus therapy device therefore includes a corresponding receiver, and the disclosed device includes corresponding transmitters. In the third embodiment, the disclosed device includes corresponding receivers, and the tinnitus analysis device includes a corresponding transmitter. The receivers and transmitters can therefore be configured as corresponding radio modules or infrared modules, or as interface modules for a wired connection. For example, the radio modules can operate according to the Bluetooth or Wi-Fi standard, the infrared modules according to the IrDA standard, and the interface modules according to the USB standard.

[0037] In the transmission of the tinnitus therapy sound (second implementation variant), the actual signal waveform of the therapy sound can be transmitted to the tinnitus therapy device, where the therapy sound is then frequency-modulated as previously described. Alternatively, the signal waveform of the tinnitus therapy sound (including the frequency modulation) could be generated in the disclosed device and transmitted to the tinnitus therapy device. In the tinnitus therapy device, the tinnitus therapy sound would then only need to be played back in an endless loop. In both cases, the signal waveform could be transmitted, for example, in WAV format. It would also be conceivable that the tinnitus therapy parameters determining the tinnitus therapy sound are transferred to the tinnitus therapy device and that the tinnitus therapy sound is generated (synthesized) in the tinnitus therapy device based on the tinnitus therapy parameters.

[0038] In the third embodiment, the tinnitus comparison sound itself (for example, again in WAV format) or the tinnitus comparison parameters that determine the tinnitus comparison sound can be determined in the tinnitus analysis device and transmitted to the claimed device. There, the tinnitus therapy sound is generated from this and subsequently output.

[0039] The disclosed devices can be designed as desktop computers, tablet computers, mobile phones, or hearing aids.

[0040] Input devices for capturing user input can be, for example, a computer mouse, keyboard, touchpad, trackball, or similar device such as a controller, switch, or similar. The control system can be, for example, a microprocessor or microcontroller with associated memory and can perform additional tasks beyond those listed.

[0041] The audio output device can comprise an audio output module and an audio output jack and be configured for playback or generation of an audio signal and output of that signal. The audio output module can, for example, include a signal generator, an audio amplifier, and / or a wireless interface. Wired headphones, for instance, can be connected to the audio output jack. Alternatively, wireless headphones connected to a wireless interface of the audio output module, such as those using the Bluetooth standard, could be used. In this case, the audio output jack would be unnecessary.

[0042] In general, the control unit is designed to trigger or control the process steps described above. The control unit can generate the tinnitus therapy sound itself and output it via the audio output module at the audio output jack. The audio output module can, in particular, include or consist of an audio amplifier. However, it is also conceivable that the control unit simply instructs the audio output module to generate and output the tinnitus therapy sound. For example, a correspondingly programmed signal generator of the audio output module could be switched on and off, or parameterized, by the control unit. The control unit can, in particular, be designed to continuously adapt the output of the tinnitus therapy sound to any update of the detected tinnitus therapy parameter. Analogous considerations apply to the tinnitus comparison sound.

[0043] The tinnitus therapy sound features a base therapy sound whose frequency is modulated around a tinnitus frequency, thus alternating between a lower and an upper therapy sound, or varying between these two levels. The lower and upper therapy sounds accordingly represent the end positions of the frequency modulation. Specifically, the lower and upper therapy sounds can correspond to the base therapy sound except for the frequency. Using input elements on the device, which are included in the input devices, the user can set or adjust the tinnitus comparison sound and / or the tinnitus therapy sound. For example, input elements for setting the tinnitus comparison parameters and / or the tinnitus therapy parameters may be provided. The input elements can be physical (sliders, rotary controls, switches, and the like).The input elements can also be implemented in software and displayed on a screen of the device, and in this case, they can include input fields. The user's inputs or settings are recorded, and the tinnitus comparison sound and / or the tinnitus therapy sound is output as an audio signal according to the specified tinnitus comparison parameters or the specified tinnitus therapy parameters, respectively, and is continuously adjusted to the user's settings. It is also conceivable that the tinnitus comparison sound and / or the tinnitus therapy sound can be modified directly in a frequency-level diagram displayed on a screen of the device. For example, this can be done by changing the shape of a frequency-level curve representing the tinnitus comparison sound and the tinnitus therapy sound.

[0044] If the user detects a match, or at least a strong similarity, between the output tinnitus comparison sound and the perceived actual tinnitus sound, they can confirm this, for example, with a command, a button, or by pressing a key. The user's input is then recorded, and a corresponding tinnitus therapy sound can subsequently be automatically derived from the tinnitus comparison sound. In particular, the tinnitus therapy sound, or at least one tinnitus therapy parameter, can also be saved by the controller for later use, especially in the controller's memory or in an external database.

[0045] Further advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and from the description in conjunction with the figures. It is advantageous if the following are provided as additional tinnitus comparison parameters: a user's hearing threshold, a sine wave component, a noise component, or a ratio between the sine wave component and the noise component of the tinnitus comparison sound, and / or a bandwidth of a noise component of the tinnitus comparison sound, particularly in a range of 0.05 to 1.25 octaves, or a quality factor in a range of 0.64 to 16.

[0046] Accordingly, the tinnitus comparison sound can have a sine wave component and a noise component, and / or the bandwidth of the noise component can be in particular in the range of 0.05 to 1.25 octaves or have a quality factor in the range of 0.64 to 16. The noise component can be in the form of white noise, in particular in the form of band-limited white noise. More complex tinnitus sounds can also be generated using the proposed measures.

[0047] It is also advantageous if the following are provided as additional tinnitus therapy parameters: a volume level of the tinnitus therapy sound, a user's hearing threshold, a sine wave component, a noise component or a ratio between the sine wave component and the noise component of the tinnitus therapy sound, a bandwidth of a noise component of the tinnitus therapy sound, particularly in a range of 0.05 to 1.25 octaves, more preferably in a range of 0.15 to 1.50 octaves, or a quality factor in a range of 0.64 to 16, a modulation frequency for the tinnitus therapy sound, particularly in a range of 0.01 Hz to 2 Hz, more preferably in a range of 0.02 Hz to 2 Hz, a modulation depth (modulation width) for the tinnitus therapy sound, particularly in a range of 1 cent to 200 cents, more preferably in a range of 10 cents to 200 cents, and / or a signal shape for frequency modulation of the tinnitus therapy sound,in particular from the group of sine, triangle, sawtooth, or square wave signals. Accordingly, the tinnitus therapy sound can have a sine wave component and a noise component. The bandwidth of the noise component can be in particular in the range of 0.05 to 1.25 octaves (preferably in the range of 0.15 to 1.50 octaves) or have a quality factor in the range of 0.64 to 16. Furthermore, the tinnitus therapy sound can be modulated with a modulation frequency in the range of 0.01 Hz to 2 Hz (preferably in the range of 0.02 Hz to 2 Hz) and / or with a modulation depth in the range of 1 cent to 200 cents (preferably in the range of 10 cents to 200 cents), and / or using a sine wave, triangle wave, orThe tinnitus therapy sound can be modulated by a sawtooth or square wave signal. The proposed measures allow the user to directly adjust the tinnitus therapy sound to their preferences or to achieve optimal therapeutic success. A modulation depth or width for the tinnitus therapy sound in the range of 1 cent to 200 cents (preferably in the range of 10 cents to 200 cents) results in good therapeutic success and, in particular, provides a safety margin if the user describes or confirms the tinnitus as tonal (i.e., a sine wave), but it is actually surrounded by noise and therefore not very narrowband. The relatively low modulation frequency also produces a relaxation effect. The frequency of the basic therapy sound can be adjusted, in particular, between two frequency extremes, each half or a full modulation depth away from the tinnitus frequency.The frequency of the therapy sound can be modulated (for example, ±0.5 cents or ±1 cent at a modulation depth of 1 cent). With a square wave signal, the therapy sound essentially only switches between these two frequency extremes; the other signal shapes create smooth transitions. It should be noted that the vertical edge of the sawtooth wave signal also causes a change in the frequency of the tinnitus therapy sound. The modulation signal (e.g., the sine wave, triangle wave, sawtooth wave, or square wave signal) has a frequency of preferably 0.01 Hz to 2 Hz (preferably in a range of 0.02 Hz to 2 Hz). Accordingly, the tinnitus therapy sound varies between the lower and upper frequencies at a corresponding rate. The noise component can be in the form of white noise, particularly band-limited white noise. It is also conceivable that...that the adjustment option for the tinnitus therapy sound is at least temporarily limited. This prevents the user from adjusting the tinnitus therapy sound so drastically that the success of the therapy is jeopardized.

[0048] It is advantageous if the therapy's baseline sound corresponds to the confirmed tinnitus reference sound, except for the volume. This allows for the simple automatic derivation of the tinnitus therapy sound from the confirmed tinnitus reference sound and / or from at least one assigned tinnitus reference parameter; furthermore, such a setting promises good therapeutic results.

[0049] The volume of the therapy's baseline sound is advantageously set within a volume range of ±3 dB at the user's hearing threshold and at the tinnitus frequency. Following the principle of lateral inhibition, if the brain attenuates a region adjacent to the stimulation, the relative dynamic amplification is highest at low levels. For example, if the hearing threshold is 20 dB and the brain can reduce the volume by 1 dB, the ratio between attenuation and sound level is relatively high, whereas the ratio is relatively low at levels significantly above the hearing threshold. Furthermore, dynamic amplification is unnecessary at high sound levels, as loud sounds are already clearly audible.For a good therapeutic effect, the relative dynamic difference between a perceived tinnitus loudness and an excitation state of neighboring cells should be as large as possible, which is achieved by adjusting the volume of the therapy background noise within a volume range of ±3 dB at the user's hearing threshold at the tinnitus frequency.

[0050] It is conceivable, for example, that the hearing threshold could be determined during the tinnitus sound identification process by adjusting the volume accordingly. For instance, the user could be instructed to adjust the volume so that the tinnitus comparison sound is just barely audible or just barely inaudible. This would be advantageously done after the user has confirmed that the output tinnitus comparison sound matches, or at least closely resembles, their perceived tinnitus sound. In this way, the tinnitus comparison sound can be output at a clearly perceptible volume before the hearing threshold is determined. The hearing threshold setting could then be confirmed, for example, with a command or a button.The user's hearing threshold is then used for the output of the tinnitus therapy sound and can also be stored for further use, for example in a memory of the device (especially in a memory of the control unit) or in an external database.

[0051] To determine the hearing threshold, the tinnitus comparison sound can be played at gradually changing volumes, and the user can be prompted to indicate whether the comparison sound is perceived as quieter or louder than the actual tinnitus sound. The volume increments can be in a fixed sequence or randomized. Similarly, buttons indicating whether the comparison sound is perceived as quieter or louder than the actual tinnitus sound can be positioned at a fixed or randomized location. In particular, the hearing threshold can be determined using 2IFC (Two-Interval Forced Choice) threshold measurement and / or the 3-up / 1-down staircase method. In 2IFC threshold measurement, the tinnitus comparison sound is played at one time interval and not at another.The user must decide at what time interval the tinnitus comparison sound is played, even if they are unsure (hence "forced choice"). In the 3-up / 1-down staircase method, the tinnitus comparison sound gets quieter after one correct answer and louder after three incorrect answers. The volume increments can be, for example, 2 dB, 3 dB, or 4 dB.

[0052] It is also advantageous if the therapy's baseline noise corresponds to the confirmed tinnitus reference noise with respect to its sine wave and noise components. This allows for the simple automatic derivation of the tinnitus therapy noise from the confirmed tinnitus reference noise and / or from at least one assigned tinnitus reference parameter; furthermore, such a setting promises good therapeutic results.

[0053] It is particularly advantageous if the therapy's baseline noise contains a (bandpass-limited) noise component, independent of any noise component in the tinnitus reference noise. This means that even if no noise component is specified for the tinnitus reference noise, a (bandpass-limited) noise component is still provided for the therapy's baseline noise. In this way, the user's tinnitus can be treated particularly effectively. The mechanism of action is based on the effect known as "stochastic resonance," which describes a phenomenon in which noise (i.e., random fluctuations) can improve the detection or amplification of a weak signal. Acoustic stimuli are generally only transmitted to the brain once the so-called "neural threshold" is overcome. The noise component facilitates overcoming the neural threshold at and around the tinnitus frequency, thus improving the success of the therapy.In particular, the noise component for the basic therapy sound may be in a range of 30% to 100% and especially in a range of 40% to 60%.

[0054] It is also advantageous if a continuous change in the frequency of the therapy's background noise is provided, or if the frequency of the therapy's background noise is continuously changed. In other words, the modulation in this design variant does not result in a sequence of several discrete frequencies. The proposed measures contribute to the user perceiving the therapy's background noise as pleasant and being easily mentally filtered out. This also increases the likelihood that the user will actually use the proposed device for the treatment of tinnitus and for a comparatively long period of time. It should also be noted that frequency steps resulting from modulation generated using digital technology are excluded from this design variant and, despite being stepped, are considered a continuous change in frequency within the scope of this disclosure.In particular, frequency levels that are less than one tenth of a modulation depth for the tinnitus therapy sound can still be considered as a continuous change in frequency.

[0055] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the therapy's background noise is played continuously, or rather, if the therapy's background noise is played continuously. This means that the therapy's background noise is played without pauses or on / off cycles. These measures result in a particularly long duration of effect, which allows for especially effective tinnitus therapy. This is achieved through two interacting mechanisms. Firstly, the absence of pauses in the therapy's background noise technically results in a maximum duration of effect during a therapy session. Secondly, a continuously played therapy's background noise is generally perceived by the user as more pleasant than an intermittent noise and can also be more easily mentally filtered out.This increases the likelihood that the user will actually use the proposed device to treat tinnitus and for a comparatively long time.

[0056] It is also advantageous if the therapy sound is output at a constant volume during a therapy session. This means that, in this design, the therapy sound is not amplitude-modulated. This also contributes to the user perceiving the therapy sound as pleasant and being able to mentally filter it out effectively. Consequently, this increases the likelihood that the user will actually use the proposed device for tinnitus therapy for a relatively long period of time.

[0057] It is also advantageous if the disclosed device includes a screen for displaying graphical content to the user. In this way, for example, the tinnitus comparison sound and the associated tinnitus comparison parameters can be graphically visualized. Similarly, a display of the tinnitus therapy sound and the associated tinnitus therapy parameters is possible. Displaying setting elements for adjusting the tinnitus comparison parameters and / or the tinnitus therapy parameters is also conceivable. Furthermore, it is advantageous if the control system is also designed to trigger the output of an instruction to the user as graphical content and / or as an audio signal, specifying at least one tinnitus comparison parameter or at least one tinnitus therapy parameter.This allows the user to be guided through the tinnitus analysis and / or therapy process, making the device intuitive to use. It is advantageous if the screen is a touchscreen, which also serves as the input device. This allows for direct input with a finger or a stylus pen.

[0058] It is advantageous if the control system is further designed to trigger the output of a selection option for one of three frequency ranges, in which the tinnitus frequency of the perceived tinnitus actual noise or the tinnitus comparison noise can be specified, whereby the frequency ranges extend from 100 Hz to 600 Hz, from 500 Hz to 6000 Hz and from 5000 Hz to 16000 Hz, each ±1 octave, and / or to trigger the output of a selection option for noise types with different sine wave and noise components.

[0059] The proposed measures can make it easier for the user to specify the tinnitus frequency, the level of the sine wave component and the level of the noise component, as they can make a rough selection of the tinnitus frequency or even rely on predefined comparison sounds.

[0060] It is also advantageous if the control system is further developed to output the tinnitus comparison sound to the user as an audio signal one octave below and one octave above the tinnitus frequency specified by the user before deriving the tinnitus therapy sound, and to ask the user whether one of these sounds has a higher correspondence with the perceived actual tinnitus sound than the tinnitus comparison sound at the tinnitus frequency, and to subsequently base the derivation of the tinnitus therapy sound on that tinnitus frequency for which the user confirms the highest correspondence.It can happen that a user is mistaken about the true tinnitus frequency, mistaking the tinnitus reference sound for the actual tinnitus sound. This leads to the erroneous reporting of a tinnitus frequency for the reference sound that is an octave below or above the actual tinnitus sound. The proposed measures, however, can eliminate such an error and ensure that the true tinnitus frequency is determined and used as the basis for subsequent tinnitus therapy. A tinnitus frequency that differs by an octave would be ineffective or less effective for tinnitus therapy.

[0061] To avoid octave misattribution, a triadic paired comparison test can be performed. In this test, the tinnitus comparison sound is played at the user-specified frequency, one octave above, and one octave below, preferably in random order. After listening to all three tinnitus comparison sounds, the user is asked to indicate which of the played tinnitus comparison sounds is "most similar," "second most similar," and "least similar" to the actual tinnitus sound. A ranking or point system can be used to determine whether an octave mix-up has occurred, and if so, in which direction (lower or upper octave). For example, this decision can be made using Borda counting or the paired comparison win rate.It is also conceivable that the three tinnitus comparison sounds could be played at randomly varied volumes, particularly within a range of ±0.5 dB to ±1 dB, to improve the reliability of the decision. Furthermore, it is conceivable to precisely measure the tinnitus frequency after checking for any octave confusion. The determined tinnitus frequency could then be varied within a frequency window of ±10% to 12% or, alternatively, ±0.15 octaves to 0.33 octaves to achieve an even more accurate determination of the tinnitus frequency.

[0062] An alternative definition of a device for treating a user's tinnitus may also include: a screen and input means or a touchscreen for displaying graphical content to the user and for recording user input, means for outputting an audio signal, and a control system configured to: i) trigger the output of an instruction to the user as graphical content and / or as an audio signal, specify and record the tinnitus frequency, the amplitude of a sine wave component, and the amplitude of a noise component of the actual tinnitus sound perceived by the user; ii) trigger the output of a tinnitus comparison sound as an audio signal with the specified tinnitus frequency, the specified amplitude of the sine wave component, and the specified amplitude of the noise component, wherein the output of the tinnitus comparison sound is continuously adapted to an update of the information from step i).iii) to store the information from step i) if the user confirms a match or at least a strong similarity between the output tinnitus comparison sound and the perceived actual tinnitus sound, and iv) to trigger the output of a tinnitus therapy sound as an audio signal, wherein a frequency of the tinnitus therapy sound is modulated around a tinnitus frequency and the tinnitus therapy sound corresponds to the tinnitus comparison sound with a volume within a volume range of ±3 dB at a hearing threshold. The embodiment variants already disclosed above and followed below are also applicable to this device mutatis mutandis.

[0063] In a further, particularly advantageous embodiment, the control system can additionally be designed to control the recording of an audiogram of the user's hearing ability and to determine the user's hearing threshold at least at the tinnitus frequency based on the audiogram.

[0064] The process of recording an audiogram is generally known. For example, the device can be configured to trigger the output of tones of different frequencies and levels and instruct the user to confirm when a tone of a specific frequency is just barely audible or just barely inaudible. The data is recorded and can subsequently be displayed in the form of an audiogram. From the audiogram, the user's hearing threshold at the tinnitus frequency can then be determined. If necessary, intermediate values ​​between the actually recorded frequency and level pairs are interpolated. It is also conceivable that the audiogram is recorded by a specialist in a hearing laboratory.

[0065] Recorded audiograms can also be stored in a database and / or compared with other audiograms stored there. In particular, the database can provide average or normative audiograms for individuals of different ages and / or genders. For example, a recorded audiogram can be graphically overlaid on a stored audiogram to facilitate comparison. In this context, it is also advantageous if users are prompted to provide their age and / or gender.

[0066] In the above context, it is particularly advantageous if the control system for acquiring the audiogram is configured to: a) trigger the display of a frequency-level diagram on the screen or touchscreen; b) trigger the output of an instruction to a user to move the screen pointer or a finger back and forth on the displayed frequency-level diagram between an audible range and an inaudible range for different frequencies or along a frequency curve (this can also be performed before step a); c) trigger the output of a tone or audio signal with a frequency and level associated with the screen pointer or finger.d) to store a movement path of the screen pointer or finger (can be carried out essentially simultaneously with step c) and e) to calculate the audiogram by averaging from the aforementioned movement path.

[0067] The proposed measures enable the intuitive and rapid recording of an audiogram, requiring no lengthy training. Advantageously, these measures empower users to create their own audiograms independently. This approach differs significantly from conventional methods, where tones are typically triggered by a technician and the user's hearing is assessed by pressing a button to confirm the perception of a tone. In particular, the step-by-step adjustment of sound pressure levels at the hearing thresholds for each frequency is eliminated. Instead, the audiogram can be calculated from a single movement of a user-controlled screen pointer or finger.A further advantage is that the audiogram captures a very large, or even unlimited, frequency range and that changes in sound pressure level occur continuously. The resulting audiogram is therefore very accurate and complete. Interpolation, if it occurs at all, is limited to very narrow ranges. Instructions to the user can be given visually and / or audibly.

[0068] It is also advantageous if the control system is further designed to trigger the display of the tinnitus frequency and the user's hearing threshold at the tinnitus frequency in a frequency-level diagram. This makes the tinnitus visually apparent to the user.

[0069] It is also advantageous if the control unit is additionally designed to trigger a measurement of the ambient noise level and only continue outputting the audio signal if the measured noise level is below a predefined threshold. For example, the noise level can be measured with a microphone integrated into the device or with an external microphone. A tinnitus analysis (or tinnitus assessment), tinnitus therapy, and / or audiogram recording is only initiated if the measured noise level is below a predefined threshold (e.g., 30 dB). This prevents the user's hearing from being excessively impaired by ambient noise during tinnitus analysis, tinnitus therapy, and / or audiogram recording.

[0070] In a further, particularly advantageous embodiment, the control unit can additionally be configured to trigger a prompt to the user to set the device volume to a predetermined value, especially the maximum value. This ensures that the audio signal is not output at a lower volume than intended or desired. Naturally, the control unit can reduce the volume to a usable level and it will not (necessarily) be output at full volume.

[0071] It is also advantageous if the control system is additionally designed to prompt the user to select one of several predefined, calibrated or non-calibrated headphone models. Calibrated headphones produce a defined (known) sound pressure level at a defined (signal) level of the tone or audio signal. This allows absolute level values ​​to be specified or used for tinnitus analysis, tinnitus therapy, and / or audiogram determination. For example, the user can select a headphone model from several predefined (calibrated) models before starting one of these processes. The use of non-calibrated headphones is also conceivable.Although the absolute sound level of the output audio signal remains unknown, reproducible volume levels are nevertheless achieved when using the same (uncalibrated) headphones. The invention proposes to inform the user of this fact. Specifically, this involves informing the user that the audiogram does not display absolute levels. However, such an audiogram can be used for comparative purposes, i.e., to indicate "better hearing" versus "worse hearing." For example, the audiogram can be used to provide a relative indication of hearing ability in specific frequency ranges. Multiple audiograms can also be used to provide a relative indication of changes in a person's hearing ability over time or to compare the hearing abilities of several individuals.The prerequisite is that the same (uncalibrated) headphones are used in each case.

[0072] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0073] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the accompanying schematic figures. These show:

[0074] Fig. 1 shows a schematically illustrated and exemplary device for the treatment of a user's tinnitus condition;

[0075] Fig. 2 shows an exemplary device with a touchscreen for displaying and adjusting an output audio signal;

[0076] Fig. 3 shows the device from Fig. 2 in a further state in which a different screen content is displayed on the touchscreen;

[0077] Fig. 4 shows the device from Fig. 2 in a further state in which an audiogram can be recorded; Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a device designed for tinnitus analysis, for deriving a tinnitus therapy sound and for tinnitus therapy;

[0078] Fig. 6 shows an arrangement with a device designed for tinnitus analysis and for deriving a tinnitus therapy sound;

[0079] Fig. 7 shows an arrangement with a device designed to derive a tinnitus therapy sound and to provide tinnitus therapy;

[0080] Fig. 8 shows a more detailed flow or block diagram of the course of therapy for a tinnitus disorder and

[0081] Fig. 9 shows a more detailed flowchart or block diagram illustrating the process of recording an audiogram.

[0082] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0083] Figure 1 shows a schematically represented and exemplary device 1a for the treatment of a user's tinnitus. The device 1a comprises audio output means 2, which include an audio output module 3 and an audio output jack 4, and which are configured for playback and generation of an audio signal (AUD) and for outputting the audio signal AUD. The audio output module 3 can, for example, include a signal generator, an audio amplifier, and / or a wireless interface. In this example, optional wired headphones 5 are connected to the audio output jack 4. Alternatively, wireless headphones 5 could be used, connected to a wireless interface of the audio output module 3, for example, according to the Bluetooth standard. In this case, the audio output jack 4 could be omitted.

[0084] Furthermore, the device 1a includes a control unit 6a, which is configured to trigger or control the output of a tinnitus therapy sound Tt as an audio signal AUD, wherein the tinnitus therapy sound Tt has a basic therapy sound T1, the frequency f of which is modulated by a tinnitus frequency f1. The control unit 6a can, for example, be configured as a microprocessor or microcontroller with associated memory and can, in particular, perform additional tasks beyond those specified.

[0085] Figure 1 visualizes the tinnitus therapy sound Tt as a frequency-level diagram, with the frequency f on the horizontal axis and the level Lp on the vertical axis. Figure 1 shows the basic therapy sound T1 at the tinnitus frequency f1, a lower therapy sound T2 at a frequency f slightly below the tinnitus frequency f1, and an upper therapy sound T3 at a frequency f slightly above the tinnitus frequency f1. As mentioned, the tinnitus therapy sound Tt has a basic therapy sound T1 whose frequency f is modulated around a tinnitus frequency f1 and therefore alternates between, or varies between, the lower therapy sound T2 and the upper therapy sound T3. The lower therapy noise T2 and the upper therapy noise T3 therefore represent the end positions of the frequency modulation.In particular, the lower therapy noise T2 and the upper therapy noise T3 can correspond to the basic therapy noise TI up to the frequency f.

[0086] The frequency f of the output tinnitus therapy sound Tt can be modulated, for example, using a sine wave, triangle wave, sawtooth wave, or square wave. The latter corresponds to switching between the lower therapy sound T2 and the upper therapy sound T3, while the other waveforms create smooth transitions. It should be noted that the vertical edge of the sawtooth wave also causes a switch from the lower therapy sound T2 to the upper therapy sound T3, or vice versa.

[0087] The modulation depth d denotes the frequency difference between the lower and upper therapy sounds T2 and T3. Preferably, the modulation depth d lies in a range of 1 cent to 200 cents or ±0.5 cents to ±100 cents around the tinnitus frequency f1. A modulation depth d in the specified range results in good therapeutic success and, in particular, a kind of safety margin if the user describes or confirms the tinnitus as tonal (i.e., as a sine tone), but it is actually surrounded by noise and therefore not very narrowband. Preferably, the frequency f of the emitted tinnitus therapy sound Tt can be modulated with a modulation frequency in a range of 0.01 Hz to 2 Hz. That is, the modulation signal (e.g., the sine, triangle, sawtooth, or square wave signal) has a frequency of preferably 0.01 Hz to 2 Hz.Accordingly, the tinnitus therapy sound Tt varies at a corresponding speed between the lower and upper therapy sounds T2 and T3. The relatively low modulation frequency also produces a relaxation effect.

[0088] Preferably, the tinnitus therapy sound Tt is output at a volume range of ±3 dB at the user's hearing threshold at the tinnitus frequency f1, resulting in a good therapeutic effect. Furthermore, the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, or the basic therapy sound T1, can have a sine wave component B and a noise component C, the noise component being in the form of white noise, in particular band-limited white noise (see also Fig. 2).

[0089] In general, it is particularly advantageous if the therapy base noise T always has a (bandpass-limited) noise component C, independent of the noise component C of the tinnitus reference noise Tv. This allows the user's tinnitus to be treated particularly effectively using the effect known as "stochastic resonance." Specifically, the noise component C for the therapy base noise T can be set in a range of 30% to 100%, and especially in a range of 40% to 60%.

[0090] In general, the success of the therapy can also be improved by one or more of the following implementation variants: the frequency f of the therapy background noise T1 is constantly changed, the therapy background noise T1 is continuously reproduced and / or the therapy background noise T1 is output at a constant volume during a therapy session.

[0091] These implementation variants have in common that the therapy sound T1 is generally perceived as pleasant by the user and can be easily mentally filtered out. This increases the likelihood that the user will actually use the proposed device 1a for the treatment of tinnitus and for a comparatively long period of time. Furthermore, continuous playback of the therapy sound T1 eliminates the need for any breaks during a therapy session.

[0092] In general, the controller 6a is designed to trigger or control the process steps described above. The controller 6a can generate the tinnitus therapy sound Tt itself and output it via the audio output module 3 at the audio output socket 4. The audio output module 3 can, in particular, include or consist of an audio amplifier. However, it would also be conceivable, for example, that the controller 6a simply instructs the audio output module 3 to generate and output the tinnitus therapy sound Tt. For instance, a correspondingly programmed signal generator of the audio output module 3 could be switched on and off or adjusted by the controller 6a.

[0093] It should be noted that the frequency-level diagram of Fig. 1 is only for illustrating the tinnitus therapy sound Tt and this does not mean that the device 1 a must have a screen on which the frequency-level diagram can be displayed.

[0094] Tinnitus therapy parameters that can be used to define the tinnitus therapy sound Tt and its generation include, in addition to the tinnitus frequency f1, one or more from the following group: loudness of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, hearing threshold of the user, sine wave component B, noise component C or ratio between sine wave component B and noise component C of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, bandwidth b of a noise component of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, modulation frequency for the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, modulation depth d for the tinnitus therapy sound Tt and signal shape for the frequency modulation of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt.

[0095] In one implementation variant, it is also conceivable that the above parameters can be set by the user. The device 1a may include means for adjusting one or more of the following parameters: the tinnitus frequency f of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, in particular in a range of ±100 cents, a volume of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, a hearing threshold of the user, a sine wave component B, a noise component C or a ratio between sine wave component B and noise component C of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, a bandwidth b of a noise component C of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, in particular in a range of 0.05 to 1.25 octaves or a quality factor in a range of 0.64 to 16, a modulation frequency for the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, in particular in a range of 0.01 Hz to 2 Hz, a modulation depth d for the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, in particular in a range of 1 cent to 200 cents,a signal shape for the frequency modulation of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, in particular from the group sine signal, triangle signal, sawtooth signal or square wave signal.

[0096] The input means for capturing user input and thus for setting one or more of the aforementioned parameters are not shown in Fig. 1; however, Fig. 2 shows an exemplary device 1b that includes such input means. The device 1b can be, for example, a desktop computer with a screen, a tablet computer, or a mobile phone. The device 1b comprises a screen 7 and input means 8 for moving a screen pointer (cursor) 9 on the screen 7, for example, a computer mouse, a touchpad, a trackball, or the like. The device 1b can also have an input jack 10 for the input means 8. Alternatively or additionally, the screen 7 can have a touch function and thus be designed as a touchscreen 7', which simultaneously functions as an input means. A position on the touchscreen 7' is then indicated with a finger 11 or, for example, a stylus pen.A computer mouse, touchpad, trackball, or the like can then be omitted. Likewise, the display of a screen pointer 9 can be omitted. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the device 1b is configured as a tablet computer with a touchscreen 7' and a computer mouse 8 connected to the tablet computer 1b. The device 1b also includes audio output means 2 for outputting a tone or audio signal AUD, which in turn comprise an audio output module 3 and an audio output jack 4 in Fig. 2, to which headphones 5 are connected. The audio output module 3 can, in turn, be configured for playing back or generating an audio signal AUD and for outputting the audio signal AUD, and may, for example, include a signal generator, an audio amplifier, and / or a wireless interface. In this example, optional wired headphones 5 are connected to the audio output jack 4.It would also be conceivable to use wireless headphones 5, which are connected to a wireless interface of the audio output module 3, for example according to the Bluetooth standard. The audio output socket 4 can then be omitted.

[0097] The device 1b also includes a control unit 6b, which can, for example, be configured as a microprocessor or microcontroller with associated memory. Furthermore, the device 1b includes an optional audio input jack 12, to which an optional microphone 13 is connected in Fig. 1.

[0098] With the aid of the control unit 6b and the audio output device 2, a tinnitus therapy sound Tt can be output in the manner already described for device 1a. The implementation variants described for device 1a and the resulting advantages also apply analogously to device 1b.

[0099] Using the input elements 14 to 16 of the device 1b, the user can set or adjust the tinnitus therapy sound Tt. Specifically, in the state of the device 1b shown in Fig. 2, an input element 14 for the tinnitus frequency f1 is displayed on the touchscreen 7', which is shown as a slider in Fig. 1. A low tinnitus frequency f1 can be entered in the lower range, and a high tinnitus frequency f1 can be entered in the upper range. Additionally, an input element 15 is displayed for the ratio between the sine wave component B of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt and its noise component C. The input element 15 is also designed as a slider, whereby the sine wave component B is increased when the slider is moved downwards and decreased when it is moved upwards. Separate input elements for specifying the sine wave component B and the noise component C would also be conceivable.In addition, an input element 16 is displayed for specifying a bandwidth b of the noise component C, particularly in a range of 0.05 to 1.25 octaves, or for specifying a quality factor, particularly in a range of 0.64 to 16. Using the suggested measures, the user can adjust the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, especially if the tinnitus changes during the course of therapy and the therapy is to be continued with an adjusted tinnitus therapy sound Tt.

[0100] Fig. 3 shows the device 1b in a further state in which other input elements 17-19 are displayed on the touchscreen 7'. Specifically, these are an input element 17 for setting the modulation frequency, an input element 18 for setting the modulation depth d, and an input element 19 for setting the volume of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt. With input element 19, the user can adjust the volume of the emitted tinnitus therapy sound Tt to their needs. The input elements 17-19 are again designed as sliders by way of example.

[0101] The user's input and settings are recorded, and the tinnitus therapy sound Tt is output as an audio signal AUD with the specified tinnitus frequency f1, the specified amplitude h1 of the sine wave component B, the specified amplitude h2 of the noise component C, and the specified bandwidth b of the noise component C. The output of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt can be continuously adjusted to the tinnitus therapy parameters set by the user.

[0102] To graphically visualize the output tinnitus therapy sound Tt, the recorded inputs or settings can be displayed in a frequency-level diagram D, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. By way of example, in the state shown in Figure 2, (only) the basic therapy sound T1 is displayed at the tinnitus frequency f1, whereby the sine component B and the noise component C of the basic therapy sound T1 can be specifically visualized, as shown in Figure 2. In contrast, Figure 3 shows, by way of example, the modulation depth d for the tinnitus therapy sound Tt. The input elements 14-19 being in the form of sliders are not mandatory. It is also conceivable, for example, that they could be designed as rotary controls or input fields for numerical values.It is also conceivable that the tinnitus therapy sound Tt can be directly modified in the frequency-level diagram D, for example by changing the tinnitus frequency f1 by moving the bar for the sine component B on the frequency axis, by changing the amplitude h1 of the sine component B by changing the length of the bar for the sine component B, or by changing the shape of the curve for the noise component C. Both the amplitude h2 of the noise component C and the bandwidth b can be changed. In the example shown in Figures 2 and 3, the frequency-level diagram D can be modified, for example, using the input devices 8 or the fingers 11.

[0103] The controller 3b can also be configured to trigger an output of instruction A, A' to the user as graphical content and / or as an audio signal AUD, specifying one or more tinnitus comparison parameters used for the output of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt (in particular the parameters described above such as tinnitus frequency f1, amplitude h1 of the sine component B, amplitude h2 of the noise component C, modulation frequency, modulation depth d, signal shape for frequency modulation and / or hearing threshold). In this way, the user is guided to use the device 1b in the manner described above.

[0104] Although it is possible to output a tinnitus therapy sound Tt that can be freely adjusted by the user, it is advantageous if the tinnitus therapy is preceded by the identification of a tinnitus sound that is triggered by a user's tinnitus disease and is used as the basis for the tinnitus therapy.

[0105] For this purpose, the controller 3b can be configured to trigger or control at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input devices 7', 8 and an output of a tinnitus comparison sound Tv based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio output device 2, wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency f1 of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, and wherein the output of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv is continuously adapted to an update of the detected tinnitus comparison parameter. In the above descriptions, the tinnitus comparison sound Tv replaces the therapy base sound T1, and the tinnitus comparison parameters replace the tinnitus therapy parameters.

[0106] The instructions given for operating device 1b with regard to the tinnitus therapy sound Tt and the therapy baseline sound T1 apply analogously to the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, with particular reference to Fig. 2. Here, too, the settings made by the user result in the output of a corresponding audio signal AUD, but with a different objective. Specifically, the user adjusts the tinnitus comparison sound Tv by setting the tinnitus comparison parameters until it matches or at least closely resembles the actual tinnitus sound perceived by them. This is done in particular using input element 14 for the tinnitus frequency f1, input element 15 for the ratio between the sine component B and the noise component C of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, and input element 16 for the bandwidth b of the noise component C.It is also possible to directly influence the parameters in the frequency-level diagram D as already described. In particular, it may be possible to hide input element 17 for setting the modulation frequency and input element 18 for setting the modulation depth d for determining the tinnitus sound triggered by a user's tinnitus condition, since these (only) affect tinnitus therapy. Of course, it is also possible for the screen display for determining the tinnitus sound to differ from that shown in Figures 2 and 3. For example, input elements 14, 15, 16, and 19 can be displayed in a single view.

[0107] In particular, to determine the tinnitus sound triggered by a user's tinnitus condition, an instruction A, A' can be issued to the user to adjust the tinnitus comparison sound Tv to match the actual tinnitus sound by operating input elements 14-16. The instruction A, A' can, in turn, be output as graphical content and / or as an audio signal AUD.

[0108] If the user detects a match or at least a strong similarity between the output tinnitus comparison sound Tv and the perceived actual tinnitus sound, they can confirm this, for example, with a command or a button (not shown). The user's information is then recorded and can also be saved, for example, in a memory of device 1b (in particular in a memory of controller 6b) or in an external database.

[0109] As a result, a corresponding tinnitus therapy sound Tt can be automatically derived from the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, which therefore no longer needs to be set for or during tinnitus therapy. If necessary, the setting option for the tinnitus therapy sound Tt can be omitted or limited by the device 1b during tinnitus therapy. For example, input elements 14-19 will then not be displayed, only partially displayed, or displayed in a different form or with a different setting range. Graphical output during tinnitus therapy is also optional, especially if the tinnitus therapy sound Tt was determined based on a tinnitus comparison sound Tv. In this case, the screen 7 or touchscreen 7' can also display content other than that shown in Figures 2 and 3 or can be switched off.In particular, a graphical visualization of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt in a frequency-level diagram D can be omitted. As already disclosed, a screen 7 or a touchscreen 7' can also be omitted entirely for conducting tinnitus therapy (compare Fig. 1).

[0110] Advantageously, the therapy background noise T1 corresponds to the confirmed tinnitus reference noise Tv, except for its volume. In particular, the therapy background noise T1 can correspond to the confirmed tinnitus reference noise Tv with respect to the sinusoidal component B and the noise component C. It would also be conceivable, in principle, that the tinnitus therapy noise Tt differs from the tinnitus reference noise Tv with respect to the sinusoidal component B and a noise component C.

[0111] Although the described determination of the tinnitus comparison noise Tv is advantageous, it can also be determined in other ways, for example with a device other than the one shown 1 b and in particular by a specialist in a hearing laboratory, for example with a separate tinnitus analysis device (see also Fig. 6 and 7). To facilitate the user's specification of the tinnitus frequency fl, the amplitude h1 of the sine component B, and the amplitude h2 of the noise component C, it may also be possible to provide a selection option for one of three frequency ranges for the tinnitus frequency f1 of the perceived tinnitus sound or the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, whereby the frequency ranges extend from 100 Hz to 600 Hz, from 500 Hz to 6000 Hz, and from 5000 Hz to 16000 Hz, each ±1 octave, and / or to provide a selection option for sound types with different sine component and noise component.

[0112] The specification "±1 octave" means, in this context, that the range limits may deviate from the specified frequencies. For example, the first frequency range could extend from 50 Hz (corresponding to -1 octave) to 1200 Hz (corresponding to +1 octave) or from 200 Hz (corresponding to +1 octave) to 1200 Hz (corresponding to +1 octave), and so on.

[0113] It is also advantageous if the tinnitus comparison sound Tv is output to the user as an audio signal AUD one octave below and one octave above the user-specified tinnitus frequency f1 before the tinnitus therapy sound Tt is derived. Furthermore, the user is asked whether either of these sounds has a higher correlation with the perceived tinnitus sound than the tinnitus comparison sound Tv at the tinnitus frequency f1. Subsequently, the tinnitus therapy sound Tt is derived based on the tinnitus frequency f1 for which the user confirms the highest correlation.It can happen that the user is mistaken about the true tinnitus frequency f1 with regard to the match between the tinnitus comparison sound Tv and the actual tinnitus sound, and incorrectly enters a tinnitus frequency f1 for the tinnitus comparison sound Tv that is an octave below or an octave above the tinnitus frequency f1 of the actual tinnitus sound. However, the proposed measures can eliminate such an error and ensure that the true tinnitus frequency f1 is stored and used as the basis for subsequent tinnitus therapy. A tinnitus frequency f1 that deviates by an octave would be ineffective or less effective for tinnitus therapy. It is conceivable that the hearing threshold is set during the determination of the tinnitus sound by appropriately adjusting the volume using input element 19.For example, the user can be instructed by a command A, A' to adjust input element 19 so that the tinnitus comparison sound Tv is just barely or just barely perceptible. Advantageously, this occurs after the user has confirmed that the output tinnitus comparison sound Tv matches, or at least closely resembles, the perceived tinnitus sound. In this way, the tinnitus comparison sound Tv can be output at a clearly perceptible volume before the hearing threshold is determined. Once the hearing threshold is set using input element 19, this can be confirmed, for example, with a command or a button (not shown).The user's hearing threshold is then used for the output of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt and can also be stored, for example again in a memory of the device 1 b (in particular in a memory of the controller 6b) or in an external database.

[0114] It is also conceivable that the hearing threshold is determined during the acquisition of an audiogram E of the user's hearing ability. For this purpose, the control unit 6b can be configured to trigger the acquisition of such an audiogram E and to store the user's hearing threshold, at least at the tinnitus frequency fl.

[0115] The acquisition of an audiogram E is generally known. For example, the control unit 6b can be configured to trigger the output of tones of different frequencies f and levels Lp and instruct the user to confirm when a tone of a specific frequency f is just barely audible or just barely inaudible. The data is recorded and can subsequently be displayed in the form of an audiogram E. From the audiogram E, the user's hearing threshold at the tinnitus frequency f1 can then be determined. If necessary, intermediate values ​​between the actually recorded frequency f and level Lp values ​​are interpolated. It is also conceivable that the audiogram E is recorded by a specialist in a hearing laboratory, and the tinnitus frequency f1 is determined from such an audiogram E.

[0116] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the audiogram E can be determined based on a movement of the screen pointer 9 or a finger 11 performed by the user. Fig. 4 shows an example using the device 1b. Specifically, in step a), a (currently empty) frequency-level diagram D is displayed on the touchscreen 7'. In step b), which can also be performed before step a), an instruction A, A' is issued to a user to move the screen pointer 9 or a finger 11 back and forth on the displayed frequency-level diagram D between an audible range F1 and an inaudible range F2 for various frequencies f or along a frequency curve. The instruction A can, for example, be given visually on the touchscreen 7' and / or in the form of an acoustic instruction A' via the headphones 5.In a subsequent step c), a tone or audio signal AUD is output with a frequency f and a level Lp, both assigned to the screen pointer 9 or finger 11. The user hears the tone or audio signal AUD through headphones 5. In a step d), which is essentially performed simultaneously with step c), a movement path G of the screen pointer 9 or finger 11 is recorded. In a subsequent step e), the audiogram E is calculated by averaging the aforementioned movement path G.

[0117] The proposed measures enable the recording of an audiogram E intuitively, quickly, and without a lengthy training period. Advantageously, these measures empower users to create an audiogram E independently and autonomously. This approach differs significantly from known methods where tones are triggered by a professional and the user's hearing is recorded by pressing a button. In particular, the stepwise adjustment of sound pressure levels Lp at the hearing thresholds for the respective frequencies f is eliminated. Instead, the audiogram E can be calculated from a single movement path G of the screen pointer 9 controlled by the test subject or of a finger 11. Further advantages include the ability to record a large number, or even an unlimited number, of frequency ranges and the continuous adjustment of the sound pressure level Lp.The resulting audiogram E is therefore very accurate and complete. Interpolation, if it occurs at all, is only carried out in very narrow ranges.

[0118] Recorded audiograms E can also be stored in a database and / or compared with other audiograms stored there. In particular, the database can provide average or normative audiograms for individuals of different ages and / or genders. For example, a recorded audiogram E can be graphically overlaid on a stored audiogram to facilitate comparison. In this context, it is also advantageous if the user is asked to provide their age and / or gender. Furthermore, it should be noted that the recording of the audiogram E is not limited to determining the user's hearing threshold at the tinnitus frequency f1, but can also be used for other purposes.

[0119] In a further advantageous embodiment of the proposed invention, the sound level Lp of an ambient noise can be measured before tinnitus analysis, tinnitus therapy, and / or the determination of an audiogram E, for example, with the external microphone 13 or with an integrated microphone (not shown). In this embodiment, the tinnitus analysis, tinnitus therapy, and / or the determination of an audiogram E only proceed if the measured sound level is below a predefinable threshold (e.g., 30 dB). This prevents the user's hearing from being excessively impaired by ambient noise.

[0120] For tinnitus analysis, tinnitus therapy, and / or audiogram determination, calibrated headphones 5 are advantageously used, which generate a defined (known) sound pressure level at a defined audio signal level (AUD). This allows absolute values ​​of the level (Lp) to be specified or used for the aforementioned processes. For example, before starting one of the aforementioned processes, the user can select a headphone model (namely, the one connected to the audio output jack 4) from several predefined (calibrated) headphone models.

[0121] In principle, the use of uncalibrated headphones 5 is also conceivable. Although the absolute sound level Lp of the output audio signal remains unknown, reproducible volume levels are nevertheless achieved when using the same (uncalibrated) headphones 5. According to the invention, it is proposed to inform the user of this fact accordingly. In this context, it is also conceivable that the user is asked to select one of several predefined, uncalibrated headphone models.

[0122] In particular, instruction A, A' can also include a request to the user to set the device volume of device 1a, 1b to a predetermined value (e.g., the maximum value). For example, this can be achieved by pressing a volume button, a volume wheel, or a volume slider (not shown) on device 1a, 1b. This ensures that the audio signal AUD is not output at a lower volume than intended or desired. Of course, the audio signal AUD can be reduced to a usable volume by the control 6a, 6b and is not (necessarily) output at full volume.

[0123] As already disclosed at the outset, the device 1b can be configured in one step S1 for tinnitus analysis (i.e., for identifying a tinnitus sound and, based on this, for setting a tinnitus comparison sound Tv), in one step S2 for automatically deriving a tinnitus therapy sound Tt based on the tinnitus analysis, and in one step S3 for tinnitus therapy (i.e., for outputting the therapy sound Tt). Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a device 1i that is capable of performing all three steps.

[0124] Steps S1 ..S3 are formed, with particular reference to the technical teaching already disclosed in Figs. 1 to 4.

[0125] The device 1 i comprises

[0126] Audio output device 2 for outputting the tinnitus comparison sound Tv or the tinnitus therapy sound Tt as an audio signal AUD,

[0127] Input means 7', 8 for capturing user input and a control 6a, 6b, which is configured to trigger or control the capture of at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input means 7', 8 and the output of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio output means 2, wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency f1 of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, and wherein the output of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv is continuously adapted to an update of the captured tinnitus comparison parameter;to trigger or control the detection of a tinnitus confirmation for a match or at least a strong similarity between a tinnitus comparison sound Tv and a tinnitus actual sound perceived by the user via the input means 7', 8, to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound Tt from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound Tv and / or from the at least one associated tinnitus comparison parameter, and to trigger or control an output of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt via the audio output means 2, wherein the tinnitus therapy sound Tt has a therapy basic sound T 1, the frequency f of which is modulated around the tinnitus frequency f1.;

[0128] However, this is not the only conceivable approach. For example, it would be conceivable that steps S1 (tinnitus analysis) and S2 (automatic derivation of a tinnitus therapy sound Tt) are performed in a proposed device 1 ii, while step S3 (tinnitus therapy) is performed in a separate tinnitus therapy device 20 (output device for tinnitus therapy sound Tt), as is the case in the example schematically illustrated in Fig. 6. Reference is again made in particular to the technical teaching already disclosed with respect to Figs. 1 to 4.

[0129] The device 1 ii comprises

[0130] Audio output device 2 for outputting a tinnitus comparison sound TV as an audio signal AUD,

[0131] Input devices 7', 8 for capturing user input and

[0132] A transmitting means for transmitting a tinnitus therapy sound Tt or at least a tinnitus therapy parameter of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt and a control unit 6a, 6b, which is configured to trigger or control the acquisition of at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input means 7', 8 and the output of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio output means 2, wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency f1 of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv and wherein the output of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv is, in particular, continuously adapted to an update of the acquired tinnitus comparison parameter.to trigger or control the detection of a tinnitus confirmation for a match or at least a strong similarity between a tinnitus comparison sound Tv and a tinnitus actual sound perceived by the user via the input means 7', 8, to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound Tt from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound Tv and / or from the at least one associated tinnitus comparison parameter, and to trigger or control the sending of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt or the sending of at least one tinnitus therapy parameter of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt to a tinnitus therapy device 20 for the purpose of outputting the tinnitus therapy sound Tt, wherein the at least one tinnitus therapy parameter is a tinnitus frequency f1 of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, and wherein the Tinnitus therapy noise Tt exhibits a basic therapy noise T 1,whose frequency f is modulated around the tinnitus frequency f1.

[0133] The tinnitus therapy device 20 shown in Fig. 6 can be designed as a hearing aid or integrated into one. The tinnitus therapy device 20 can be similar to the device 1a shown in Fig. 1 and, except for the automatic derivation of a tinnitus therapy sound Tt, perform the steps disclosed therein. In such an embodiment, the device 1b shown in Figs. 2 to 4 can also be provided for controlling the tinnitus therapy device 20. For example, the tinnitus therapy sound Tt can be determined with the aid of the device 1ii, 1b and transmitted to the tinnitus therapy device 20 and output there. The actual signal shape of the therapy basic noise T1 can be generated in the device 1 ii, 1 b and transmitted to the tinnitus therapy device 20, where the therapy basic noise T1 is only frequency-modulated in the manner already specified.It would also be conceivable that the signal waveform of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt (including the frequency modulation) is generated in the device 1 ii, 1 b and transmitted to the tinnitus therapy device 20. In the tinnitus therapy device 20, the tinnitus therapy sound Tt would then only need to be played back in an endless loop. Alternatively, the tinnitus therapy parameters determining the tinnitus therapy sound Tt could be transmitted to the tinnitus therapy device 20, and the tinnitus therapy sound Tt could be generated in the tinnitus therapy device 20 based on these parameters.

[0134] In yet another embodiment, steps S2 (automatic derivation of a tinnitus therapy sound Tt) and S3 (tinnitus therapy) are performed in a proposed device 1 iii, whereas step S1 (tinnitus analysis) is performed in a separate tinnitus analysis device 21 (recording device for tinnitus comparison sound Tv). A corresponding arrangement is schematically illustrated in Fig. 7, with particular reference again made to the technical teaching already disclosed in Figs. 1 to 4.

[0135] The device 1 iii comprises

[0136] Audio output device 2 for outputting a tinnitus therapy sound Tt as an audio signal AUD,

[0137] Receiving means for receiving a tinnitus comparison sound Tv, for which a user has confirmed a match or at least a strong similarity with a perceived tinnitus actual sound, or for receiving at least one tinnitus comparison parameter of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency f1 of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv, and a control 6a, 6b, which is configured to trigger or control a reception of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv and / or a reception of the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter from the tinnitus analysis device 21 via the receiving means, to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound Tt from the tinnitus comparison sound Tv and / or from the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter, and a To trigger the output of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt via the audio output device 2,wherein the tinnitus therapy sound Tt has a therapy background sound T1, the frequency f of which is modulated around the tinnitus frequency f1.

[0138] The device 1 iii shown in Fig. 7 can be structurally similar to the device 1 b and may, for example, be configured as a desktop computer with a screen, as a tablet computer, or as a mobile phone. However, the device 1 iii shown in Fig. 7 can also be structurally similar to the device 1 a and may, in particular, be configured as or integrated into a hearing aid.

[0139] For example, the tinnitus comparison sound Tv can be determined using the tinnitus analysis device 21 and transmitted to the device 1 iii, where it serves as the basis for deriving the tinnitus therapy sound Tt or its tinnitus therapy parameters. Alternatively, the tinnitus comparison parameters determining the tinnitus comparison sound Tv can be transmitted to the device 1 iii and used there as the basis for deriving the tinnitus therapy sound Tt or its tinnitus therapy parameters. The actual signal waveform of the basic therapy sound T1 or the signal waveform of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt (including frequency modulation) can then be generated by the controllers 6a, 6b. Alternatively, the controllers 6a, 6b can also determine the tinnitus therapy parameters and use them as the basis for the output of the tinnitus therapy sound Tt.

[0140] In the embodiments shown in Figures 6 and 7, data is transmitted from device 1ii to the tinnitus therapy device 20 and from the tinnitus analysis device 21 to device 1iii, respectively. This transmission can be wired or wireless. In Figure 6, the tinnitus therapy device 20 therefore includes a corresponding receiver, and device 1ii includes corresponding receiving means. In Figure 7, device 1iii includes corresponding receiving means, and the tinnitus analysis device 21 includes a corresponding transmitter. The receiving and transmitting means can therefore be designed as corresponding radio modules or infrared modules, or as interface modules for a wired connection. For example, the radio modules can operate according to the Bluetooth or Wi-Fi standard, the infrared modules according to the IrDA standard, and the interface modules according to the USB standard.

[0141] In addition, Figures 8 and 9 show more detailed flowcharts and block diagrams, respectively, from which further details of the proposed invention can be derived, with Figure 8 relating to tinnitus therapy with the tinnitus therapy sound Tt and the recording of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv respectively, and Figure 9 relating to the determination of an audiogram E.

[0142] In Fig. 8, a first step (Si) checks whether the sound level of an ambient noise (NOS) is below a predefined threshold. A further step (Sii) checks whether headphones 5 are connected to the device 1a, 1b, 1i...1iii. In a further step (Siii), settings for the output of the audio signal AUD on the screen 7, 7' are recorded, and the audio signal AUD is simultaneously output via a signal generator. A query regarding the octave substitution of the tinnitus comparison sound Tv is performed in step Siv. Furthermore, the user-entered information is stored. Finally, in step Sv, the tinnitus therapy sound Tt is output.

[0143] In Fig. 9, in a first step Si', it is again checked whether the sound level of an ambient noise NOS is below a predefined threshold. In a further step Sii', it is again checked whether headphones 5 are connected to the device 1a, 1b, 1i..1iii for recording the audiogram E. In a further step Siii', the movement path G of the screen pointer 9 or the finger 11 is recorded, whereby a tone or audio signal AUD is simultaneously output via a signal generator, which is assigned to the coordinates of the screen pointer 9 or finger 11 on the screen 7, 7'. The determined audiogram E is compared in an optional step Siv' with other audiograms E which are stored in a database. Finally, the determined audiogram E can also be stored in the database, optionally with personal data of the user such as name, age and gender.It should also be noted here that the optional content described above for instruction A, A' does not necessarily have to be output to the user in the form of a single instruction A, A', but rather different content can be output at different times in the form of different instructions A, A'. Instruction A, A' should therefore be understood as a collective term for different and sometimes optional content. Furthermore, the provision of input elements 14..19 is not linked to a specific instruction A, A', but can also occur independently of other content.

[0144] The input elements 14..19 are provided as graphical elements in the examples shown. However, it would also be conceivable that the input elements 14..19 are additionally or alternatively present in whole or in part as physical input elements 14..19 on the device 1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii.

[0145] It should also be noted that the axes for frequency f and level Lp can be reversed compared to the representations in Figures 2 to 5, as shown in Figures 1, 8, and 9. In this case, frequency f is plotted on the horizontal axis and level Lp on the vertical axis. Accordingly, the audible range F1 for recording an audiogram E is located at the top in this example, and the inaudible range F2 is at the bottom. The screen pointer 9 or finger 11 is moved from left to right and vertically. This type of movement may be easier for a user to perform. That is, this arrangement of the axes may be perceived as more ergonomic by a user.

[0146] REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0147] 1 a..1 iii Device (tablet computer)

[0148] 2 Audio output devices

[0149] 3 Audio output module

[0150] 4 Audio output jacks

[0151] 5 headphones

[0152] 6a, 6b Control

[0153] 7-inch screen

[0154] 7' Touchscreen

[0155] 8 Input devices / Computer mouse

[0156] 9 Screen pointer / cursor

[0157] 10 Input jacks for input devices

[0158] 11 fingers

[0159] 12 Audio input jack

[0160] 13 microphone

[0161] 14 Input element Tinnitus frequency

[0162] 15 Input element ratio Sine component Noise component

[0163] 16 Input element bandwidth

[0164] 17 Input element Modulation frequency

[0165] 18 Input element modulation depth

[0166] 19 Input element volume

[0167] 20 Tinnitus therapy device (output device for tinnitus therapy sound)

[0168] 21 Tinnitus analysis device (recording device for tinnitus comparison noise)

[0169] A, A' instruction to user

[0170] B sine component

[0171] C Noise component

[0172] D Frequency-Level Diagram

[0173] E audiogram

[0174] F1 audible range

[0175] F2 inaudible range

[0176] G Movement path Screen pointer / Finger AUD Audio signal / Sound

[0177] NOS ambient noise

[0178] Tt Tinnitus therapy noise

[0179] T1 Therapy background noise T2 Lower therapy noise (lower end position)

[0180] T3 upper therapy noise (upper end position)

[0181] TV tinnitus comparison noise

[0182] S 1 .. S iv' Process step b Bandwidth Noise component d Modulation depth f Frequency f1 Tinnitus frequency h1 Height of sine component h2 Height of noise component

[0183] LP Pegel

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 7 May 2026 (07.05.2026) 1. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) for the treatment of a user's tinnitus disorder, which in one case comprises i). Audio output means (2) for outputting a tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) or a tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) as an audio signal (AUD), input means (7', 8) for capturing user input and a control (6a, 6b) which is designed to -) to capture at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input means (7', 8) and to trigger an output of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio output means (2), wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency (f1 ) of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv); -) to trigger the detection of a tinnitus confirmation for a match or at least a strong similarity between a tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and a tinnitus actual sound perceived by the user via the input means (7', 8), -) to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and / or from at least one assigned tinnitus comparison parameter and -) to trigger an output of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) via the audio output means (2), or which in a case ii) includes Audio output device (2) for outputting a tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) as an audio signal (AUD), Input device (7', 8) for capturing user input, Transmitting means for transmitting a tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) or at least a tinnitus therapy parameter of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) and a control (6a, 6b) which is designed to -) Acquisition of at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input devices (7', 8) and output of the tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio- AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) to trigger output means (2), wherein at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency (f1 ) of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv); -) to trigger the detection of a tinnitus confirmation for a match or at least a strong similarity between the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) and a tinnitus actual noise perceived by the user via the input means (7', 8), -) to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and / or from at least one assigned tinnitus comparison parameter and -) to trigger the transmission of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) or the transmission of at least one tinnitus therapy parameter of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) to a tinnitus therapy device (20) for the purpose of outputting the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) via the transmitting means, wherein the at least one tinnitus therapy parameter is a tinnitus frequency (f1 ) of the tinnitus comparison sound (Tv), or which in a case iii) includes Audio output device (2) for outputting a tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) as an audio signal (AUD), Receiving means for receiving a tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) for which a user has confirmed a match or at least a strong similarity with a perceived tinnitus actual sound, or for receiving at least one tinnitus comparison parameter of the tinnitus comparison sound (Tv), wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency (f1 ) of the tinnitus comparison sound (Tv), and a control (6a, 6b) which is designed to -) to trigger a reception of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) and / or a reception of at least one tinnitus comparison parameter from a tinnitus analysis device (21 ) via the receiving means, -) to automatically derive the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and / or from at least one tinnitus comparison parameter and AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) -) to trigger an output of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) via the audio output means (2), characterized in that the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) has a therapy background sound (T1 ) whose frequency (f) is modulated around the tinnitus frequency (f1 ), wherein a modulation depth for the tinnitus therapy sound is in a range of 1 cent to 200 cents.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that an additional tinnitus comparison parameter is provided which is a hearing threshold of the user, a sine wave component (B), a noise component (C) or a ratio between sine wave component (B) and noise component (C) of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) and / or a bandwidth (b) of a noise component (C) of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv).

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that an additional tinnitus therapy parameter is provided which is a loudness of the tinnitus therapy noise (Tt), a hearing threshold of the user, a sine wave component (B), a noise component (C) or a ratio between sine wave component (B) and noise component (C) of the tinnitus therapy noise (Tt), a bandwidth (b) of a noise component (C) of the tinnitus therapy noise (Tt), a modulation frequency for the tinnitus therapy noise (Tt) and / or a signal shape for the frequency modulation of the tinnitus therapy noise (Tt). AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 4. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the therapy background noise (T1 ) corresponds to the confirmed tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) except for the volume.

5. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the volume of the therapy background noise (T1 ) is in a volume range of ±3 dB at a hearing threshold of the user at the tinnitus frequency (f1 ).

6. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the therapy background noise (T1 ) corresponds to the confirmed tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) with respect to the sine component (B) and the noise component (C).

7. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the therapy background noise (T1 ) has a noise component (C) independently of a noise component (C) of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv).

8. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a continuous change of the frequency (f) of the therapy background noise (T1 ) is provided.

9. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a continuous reproduction of the therapy background noise (T1 ) is provided.

10. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that an output of the therapy background noise (T1 ) is provided during a therapy session at a constant volume.

11. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it has a screen (7) for displaying a graphic AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) content to the user and the control (6a, 6b) is further designed to trigger an output of an instruction (A, A') to the user as graphic content and / or as an audio signal (AUD), specifying at least one tinnitus comparison parameter.

12. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to claim 11 , characterized in that the screen (7) is formed by a touchscreen (7') which simultaneously functions as an input means (7', 8).

13. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the control (6a, 6b) is further configured to trigger the output of a selection of one of three frequency ranges in which the tinnitus frequency f1 of the perceived tinnitus actual noise can be specified, wherein the frequency ranges extend from 100 Hz to 600 Hz, from 500 Hz to 6000 Hz and from 5000 Hz to 16000 Hz, each ±1 octave, and / or to trigger the output of a selection of noise types with different sine component (B) and noise component (C).

14. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the control unit (6a, 6b) is further configured to trigger an output of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) to the user as an audio signal (AUD) before the derivation of the tinnitus therapy noise (Tt), one octave below and one octave above the tinnitus frequency (f 1 ) specified by the user, and to trigger an output of a query to the user as to whether one of these noises has a higher correspondence with the perceived actual tinnitus noise than the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) at the tinnitus frequency (f 1 ) and to base the derivation of the tinnitus therapy noise (Tt) on that tinnitus frequency (f 1 ) for which the user has the highest correspondence. confirmed.

15. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 2 to 14, characterized in that the control (6a, 6b) is further configured to AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) to control the recording of an audiogram (E) of the user's hearing ability and to determine the user's hearing threshold at least at the tinnitus frequency (f1) based on the audiogram (E).

16. Device according to claim 15, characterized in that the control (6a, 6b) for acquiring the audiogram (E) is configured to: a) trigger a display of a frequency-level diagram (D) on the screen (7) or the touchscreen (7'); b) trigger an output of an instruction (A, A') to a user to move the screen pointer (9) or a finger (11) on the displayed frequency-level diagram (D) between an audible range (F1) and an inaudible range (F2) for different frequencies (f) or in a frequency curve; c) trigger an output of the tone or audio signal (AUD) with a frequency (f) and a level (Lp) assigned to the screen pointer (9) or the finger (11).d) to store a movement path (G) of the screen pointer (9) or of the finger (11) and e) to calculate the audiogram (E) by averaging the said movement path (G).

17. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 2 to 16, characterized in that the control (6a, 6b) is further configured to trigger the display of the tinnitus frequency (f) and the hearing threshold of the user at the tinnitus frequency (f1 ) in a frequency-level diagram (D).

18. Device (1 a, 1 b, 1 i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the control (6a, 6b) is additionally configured to trigger a measurement of a sound level (Lp) of an ambient noise and to continue with the output of the audio signal (AUD) only if the said sound level (Lp) is below a predefinable threshold value. AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 19. Device (1a, 1b, 1i..1 iii) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the control (6a, 6b) is additionally configured to trigger an output of a request to the user to set a device volume of the device (1a, 1b, 1i..1 iii) to a predetermined value.

20. Device (1a, 1b, 1i..1iii) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the control (6a, 6b) is additionally configured to trigger an output of a request to the user to select one of several predefinable, calibrated or non-calibrated headphone models.

21. Method for operating a device (1a, 1b, 1i..1iii) according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the control (6a, 6b) automatically derives the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) from the confirmed tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) and / or from the at least one associated tinnitus comparison parameter.

22. Method according to claim 21, comprising the steps performed by the control (6a, 6b) of the device (1a, 1b, 1i..1iii) in case i). -) Triggering the acquisition of at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input means (7', 8) and the output of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio output means (2), wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency (f1 ) of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv); -) Triggering the detection of a tinnitus confirmation for a match or at least a strong similarity between a tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and a tinnitus actual sound perceived by the user via the input devices (7', 8), -) Automatic derivation of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and / or from at least one assigned tinnitus comparison parameter and -) Triggering an output of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) via the audio output device (2), AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) or the steps performed by the control (6a, 6b) of the device (1a, 1b, 1i..1iii) in case ii). -) Triggering the acquisition of at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the input means (7', 8) and the output of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) based on the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter via the audio output means (2), wherein the at least one tinnitus comparison parameter is a tinnitus frequency (f1 ) of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv); -) Triggering the detection of a tinnitus confirmation for a match or at least a strong similarity between the tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and a tinnitus actual sound perceived by the user via the input devices (7', 8), -) Automatic derivation of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and / or from at least one assigned tinnitus comparison parameter and -) Triggering a transmission of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) or a transmission of at least one tinnitus therapy parameter of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) to a tinnitus therapy device (20) for the purpose of outputting the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) via the transmitting means, wherein the at least one tinnitus therapy parameter is a tinnitus frequency (f1 ) of the tinnitus comparison sound (Tv), or the steps carried out by the control (6a, 6b) of the device (1a, 1b, 1i..1iii) in case iii). -) Triggering a reception of the tinnitus comparison noise (Tv) and / or a reception of at least one tinnitus comparison parameter from a tinnitus analysis device (21 ) via the receiving means, -) Automatic derivation of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) from the confirmed tinnitus comparison sound (Tv) and / or from at least one tinnitus comparison parameter and -) Triggering an output of the tinnitus therapy sound (Tt) via the audio output device (2). AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19) 23. Computer program product comprising instructions that cause the control (6a, 6b) of the device (1a, 1b, 1i..1iii) according to any one of claims 1 to 20 to perform the method steps according to claim 21 or 22.

24. Computer-readable medium on which the computer program product according to claim 23 is stored. AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)

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