Audiologic Test Apparatus for Middle Ear Resonance Frequency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current audiologic test methods, such as tympanometry, face challenges in achieving accurate and efficient measurements with reduced test time and signal-to-noise ratio, particularly when using wide-band signals, which are not standardized and can lead to increased wear on equipment and a higher risk of triggering the stapedius acoustic reflex.
Innovation Solution
An audiologic test apparatus and method that employs a pump device, signal generator, and processing module to apply varying pressures in the ear canal while generating broadband and tone signals, allowing for the determination of middle ear resonance frequency and other ear characteristics with optimized data collection and high signal quality, reducing equipment wear and the risk of reflex triggering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a wide-band signal is used throughout the entire pressure sweep, then the test time is reduced, but the signal-to-noise ratio is reduced and superfluous data is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pressure sweep into distinct phases: a first phase using a first broadband signal to obtain first acoustic parameter values, and a second phase using a second broadband signal to obtain second acoustic parameter values. This segmentation allows optimized signal characteristics for each phase, improving signal-to-noise ratio while maintaining reduced test time through parallel processing of multiple frequency components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters of the broadband signal during the pressure sweep by using different broadband signals at different pressure points. The signal generator produces broadband signals with specific frequency components that are optimized for the current pressure condition, allowing high signal-to-noise ratio measurements throughout the entire pressure range without requiring sequential single-tone measurements.
2Loss of time
If a wide-band signal is used throughout the entire pressure sweep, then the test time is reduced, but equipment wear is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the testing process into multiple phases with different signal types. The pump device applies pressure in a controlled manner, and the signal generator produces broadband signals only when needed for measurement, rather than continuously. This reduces unnecessary mechanical operation and signal generation, thereby reducing equipment wear while maintaining fast testing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous useful action by maintaining the probe in the ear canal throughout the test, with the pump device continuously applying pressure and the signal generator continuously providing broadband signals. This eliminates idle time and repeated insertion/removal cycles, reducing mechanical wear on the pump device and probe while maintaining rapid measurement capability.
3Loss of time
If a wide-band signal is used throughout the entire pressure sweep, then the test time is reduced, but the risk of triggering the stapedius acoustic reflex is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the frequency parameters of the broadband signal based on the pressure condition. The signal generator produces broadband signals with optimized frequency content for each pressure point, avoiding excessive low-frequency components that would trigger the stapedius reflex. This parameter optimization allows rapid testing without increasing the risk of reflex triggering.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different signal characteristics at different locations in the pressure sweep. The broadband signal is tailored to the specific pressure condition being measured, with frequency content optimized for that local condition rather than using a uniform wide-band signal throughout. This local optimization reduces unnecessary stimulation of the stapedius reflex while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability.
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 solution provides a fast, effective, and accurate audiologic test with improved signal-to-noise ratio and pressure resolution, reducing equipment wear and the risk of stapedius reflex, while maintaining standard test protocols.
Implementation Method 1
the pump device is configured to apply a first pressure to the ear canal
Implementation Method 2
a first broadband signal generated using the signal generator
Implementation Method 3
measuring via a microphone the signal reflected by the tympanic membrane
Implementation Method 4
determine a middle ear resonance frequency and/or other ear characteristic
Data Source
AI summary
An audiologic test apparatus includes: a pump device configured to apply a first pressure to the ear canal; and a processing module for communicatively coupling to the pump device and to a signal generator, wherein the processing module is configured to obtain first acoustic parameter values indicative of an acoustic parameter at the first pressure based on a first broadband signal generated using the signal generator; wherein the pump device is configured to change the first pressure to a changed pressure, and wherein the pump device is also configured to apply a second pressure to the ear canal; and wherein the processing module is also configured to obtain second acoustic parameter values indicative of the acoustic parameter at the second pressure based on a second broadband signal generated using the signal generator, and determine a middle ear resonance frequency based on the first and second acoustic parameter values.