Frequency-Band Audio Output Tuned to Dynamic Hearing Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for controlling audio signal output in hearing aids are based on static hearing thresholds, which do not account for dynamic changes in hearing ability over time, leading to suboptimal audio experience.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that output both audio and modulated signals simultaneously, allowing users to adjust volume based on real-time hearing threshold changes by using visual cues synchronized with modulation patterns, enabling personalized optimization of audio signal levels for each frequency band.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If audio signals are output based on static hearing thresholds, then the fitting procedure is simplified and can be performed separately from hearing tests, but the system cannot adapt to dynamic changes in hearing ability over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static hearing threshold-based audio output to a dynamic system that continuously adapts to changing hearing ability. The audio signal output levels are adjusted in real-time based on detected hearing threshold changes, allowing the system to respond to temporal variations in user hearing without requiring repeated formal fitting procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where hearing threshold changes are detected and used to automatically adjust audio signal output levels. This closed-loop approach allows the system to adapt to hearing changes dynamically, eliminating the need for separate fitting procedures while maintaining optimal audio output according to current hearing status.
2Device complexity
If hearing tests and fitting are performed separately based on static hearing values, then the initial setup is simpler, but the system overlooks the dynamic quality of hearing ability and cannot improve user hearing over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of hearing threshold changes and automatically adjusts audio output levels before the user notices any degradation in audio quality. This proactive approach ensures that audio output always matches current hearing ability without requiring user intervention or repeated hearing tests.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically detects hearing threshold changes and adjusts its own audio output parameters without requiring external fitting procedures or user intervention. This self-adjusting capability maintains accurate audio output matching while simplifying the overall process by eliminating separate fitting steps.
3Ease of operation
If the system uses static hearing thresholds for audio output control, then the implementation is straightforward, but it does not consider improvements in user hearing and provides suboptimal audio experience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual fitting process with an automated detection and adjustment system. Instead of requiring professionals to perform complex fitting procedures based on static hearing tests, the system automatically detects hearing threshold changes and adjusts audio output parameters, maintaining high audio quality while simplifying operation for end users.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus for outputting an audio signal and a method of adjusting the volume of an audio signal are provided. An embodiment of the present invention provides a method for outputting an audio signal that includes: (a) determining an output level of a modulated signal to be outputted for each respective frequency band by using a hearing threshold measured for the respective frequency band; and (b) outputting the modulated signal and an audio signal simultaneously. An embodiment of the present invention can improve hearing ability by outputting an audio signal and a modulated signal together. Also, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a user can use visual signals to personally set the output level of audio signals that is optimal for each frequency band in accordance with changes in the user's dynamic hearing threshold for each respective frequency band, even while listening to audio signals of which the output level for each frequency band was determined previously.