Audiometric Masking Intensity Using Theoretical Rinne Values
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Audiometric tests can be inaccurate due to test tones being perceived by the contralateral ear, requiring masking tones that do not interfere with the tested ear, which current methods lengthen the test duration and provide inaccurate estimates of the Rinne test.
Innovation Solution
A method to determine masking intensity using hypothetical transcranial transfer functions or Rinne values without prior bone and air conduction audiometry, allowing simultaneous application of test and masking sounds to ensure accurate masking without prolonging the test.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If prior bone conduction and air conduction audiometry are performed to estimate the Rinne value, then the masking intensity can be determined, but the test duration is lengthened
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-computes transcranial transfer functions TFC(f, Rinne) for multiple Rinne values (0-70 dB) and stores them in memory. During testing, the appropriate function is selected based on patient characteristics, eliminating the need for prior audiometry to estimate Rinne.
2Measurement precision
If the masking intensity is increased to prevent test tone perception by the contralateral ear, then the test accuracy is improved, but the masking sound may prevent perception of the test sound by the tested ear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the masking intensity based on the specific transcranial transfer function selected for the patient. Instead of using a fixed or overly conservative masking level, the system calculates the precise masking intensity needed using the formula: masking intensity = test intensity + TFC(f, Rinne), where TFC is the transcranial transfer function. This ensures the masking sound is strong enough to prevent contralateral ear perception but not so strong as to interfere with the tested ear.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring the patient's responses during the audiometric test and adjusting the masking intensity accordingly. The transcranial transfer function selection is based on feedback from the patient's age and hearing characteristics, and the masking level is adjusted in real-time to maintain optimal test conditions without causing interference.
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
Facilitates faster and more accurate audiometric diagnosis by determining masking intensity directly from theoretical Rinne or transcranial transfer values, reducing the need for prior audiometric tests and improving test efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
via headphones using air conduction
Implementation Method 2
via a vibrator using bone conduction
Implementation Method 3
a masking tone applied to the contralateral ear via air conduction, usually through headphones
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for audiometric testing, comprising the following steps: - simultaneous application of a test sound having a test intensity to an ear (210) and application of a masking sound having a masking intensity to a contralateral ear (220) for masking the test sound, the method being characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - Repetition of the following steps: - determining a Rinne current, determining that the Rinne current is compatible if there is a current intensity, such that if the masking intensity is equal to the current intensity and if the Rinne of the ear (210) or the contralateral ear (220) is equal to the Rinne current, then the test sound is not perceived by the contralateral ear (220) and the masking sound does not prevent perception of the test sound by the ear (210), - determining the masking intensity based on a maximum compatible Rinne current.