Audiologic Test Apparatus with Automatic Probe Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current audiologic test apparatuses require multiple devices or complex probe configurations to perform different tests, leading to inefficiencies in time and space usage, especially when switching between screening and diagnostic type acoustic reflex tests.
Innovation Solution
A single audiologic test apparatus with interchangeable probes and a processing unit that automatically selects the appropriate test mode based on the connected probe, eliminating the need for multiple devices and reducing configuration time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single audiologic test apparatus is used to perform multiple types of audiologic tests, then the quantity of apparatuses is reduced and space is saved, but the device complexity increases due to the need to accommodate different probe requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The audiologic test apparatus is designed with a universal probe interface that can accommodate multiple types of probes (hand-held probes for screening tests and fitted probes for diagnostic tests). The processing unit automatically detects the connected probe type and configures the test parameters accordingly, enabling a single apparatus to perform both screening and diagnostic acoustic reflex tests, tympanometric tests, and otoacoustic emission tests without requiring separate dedicated devices for each test type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a configurable probe is used to adapt to different audiologic test requirements, then the adaptability increases, but the configuration time increases making the process time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs automatic probe detection and identification mechanisms where the processing unit automatically detects which probe is connected to the apparatus. Based on the detected probe type, the system automatically configures the appropriate test parameters and settings without requiring manual intervention from the operator. This self-configuration capability eliminates the time-consuming manual setup process while maintaining full adaptability to different probe types and test requirements.
3Ease of operation
If a hand-held probe is used for acoustic reflex tests, then the ease of operation improves, but the measurement precision may be compromised compared to fitted probes
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus dynamically adapts its operation based on the detected probe type. When a hand-held probe is detected, the system configures parameters optimized for screening tests with appropriate tolerances. When a fitted probe is detected, the system switches to parameters optimized for diagnostic precision. This dynamic parameter adjustment ensures that each probe type operates at its optimal performance level, maintaining both ease of operation for hand-held probes and measurement precision for fitted probes.
Data Source
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AI summary
An audiologic test apparatus and system comprising: a processing unit configured to conduct a set of audiologic tests including a first audiologic test and a second audiologic test; a first probe connector for connecting a first probe for the first audiologic test, wherein the first probe connector is connected to the processing unit and comprises a first fluid port; a second probe connector for connecting a second probe for the second audiologic test, wherein the second probe connector is connected to the processing unit and comprises a second fluid port; and a pump module connected to the first fluid port with a first fluid channel and the second fluid port with a second fluid channel. In a first operating mode the pump module is configured to be in fluid communication with the first fluid port, and in a second operating mode the pump module is configured to be in fluid communication with the second fluid port.