Acoustical Filter Segmentation for Hearing Aid Signal Attenuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing acoustical modules in hearing aids fail to effectively attenuate self-generated signals, such as acoustical and vibration signals, which can interfere with external sound detection, and the damping materials used in prior solutions are static and not easily replaceable.
Innovation Solution
An acoustical module with multiple microphone units and acoustical filters positioned between pressure pick-up points, including dome-shaped structures, to suppress self-generated signals and improve signal-to-noise ratio by combining microphone signals and applying filtering elements to reduce external sound signal strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If damping material is positioned in the fluid channel leading from the rear inlet to the microphone diaphragm, then passive attenuation of 3 dB or more is achieved, but the damping material cannot be replaced if other acoustical properties are required
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustical filter is segmented into multiple replaceable filter elements (first acoustical filter and second acoustical filter) that can be independently positioned and replaced. This allows the system to maintain attenuation functionality while enabling customization for different acoustical properties by replacing individual filter elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static damping material configuration to a dynamic configuration where filter elements can be repositioned and replaced. The filter elements can be moved between different positions (e.g., between first and second pressure pick-up points) to adapt to different acoustical requirements.
2Measurement precision
If multiple microphone units with acoustical filters are used to attenuate self-generated signals, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustical filter elements serve multiple functions: they attenuate self-generated signals, can be repositioned to different locations in the acoustical path, and can be replaced to achieve different acoustical properties. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing acoustical parameters by replacing filter elements with different characteristics. Instead of redesigning the entire system, users can adjust the acoustical properties by swapping filter elements with different attenuation characteristics or positioning them at different locations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The module effectively attenuates self-generated signals and enhances the signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for improved detection of external sounds and reconstruction of the head-related transfer function, while being adaptable to different acoustical properties without requiring replacement of damping materials.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustical filter may be provided between the first and the second acoustical pressure pick-up points. In this manner an incoming acoustical signal may be attenuated upon passing the acoustical filter
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an acoustical module comprising a receiver unit for generating audio sound, a plurality of microphone units for receiving acoustical pressure signals, a plurality of acoustical pressure pick-up points, each of said acoustical pressure pick-up points being acoustically connected to a microphone unit, and an acoustical filter for attenuating acoustical pressure signals from a first acoustical pressure pick-up point relative to a second acoustical pressure pick-up point. The invention further relates to a hearing device comprising an acoustical module.