Bone Conduction MFO Control by Environmental Sound Classification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional bone conduction devices limit their output level to a predetermined force to prevent unexpected shutdowns, thereby compromising hearing performance due to high power consumption and battery life limitations.
Innovation Solution
A bone conduction device that dynamically adjusts its maximum force output (MFO) based on the sound class and environmental factors, such as sound classification and signal-to-noise ratio, to balance improved hearing performance with power consumption and battery life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the bone conduction device operates at a predetermined maximum force output to prevent unexpected shutdowns, then battery life is extended and shutdowns are prevented, but hearing performance is compromised due to limited output levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of the maximum force output (MFO) based on environmental sound classification. The device transitions from a static predetermined MFO to a dynamic system that adapts MFO levels in real-time according to the acoustic environment, allowing higher output when beneficial while maintaining power efficiency during normal conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the bone conduction device by adjusting MFO based on sound class classification. Different sound classes (e.g., quiet environments vs. noisy environments) trigger different MFO parameter settings, enabling the device to optimize both hearing performance and battery consumption under varying conditions
2Power
If the bone conduction device increases output level to improve hearing performance, then hearing performance is enhanced, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes the MFO parameter based on environmental sound classification. By analyzing the acoustic environment and categorizing it into different sound classes, the system adjusts the power consumption parameter (MFO) to match the actual hearing needs, avoiding unnecessary high power consumption in environments where it is not required
3Device complexity
If the bone conduction device uses a fixed maximum force output setting, then device complexity is reduced and operation is simplified, but adaptability to different acoustic environments is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an environmental classifier that automatically analyzes the acoustic environment and determines the appropriate sound class without user intervention. The system self-adjusts the MFO setting based on the classified environment, providing adaptability while maintaining simple operation for the user
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a feedback mechanism where the environmental classifier continuously monitors the acoustic environment and adjusts the MFO setting accordingly. This closed-loop system provides adaptability to different environments while keeping the device operation simple, as the adjustment occurs automatically based on environmental feedback
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
Enhances hearing performance by allowing higher output levels only when beneficial, while optimizing battery life and preventing unexpected shutdowns.
Implementation Method 1
certain types of hearing prostheses, commonly referred to as bone conduction devices, convert a received sound into vibrations. The vibrations are transferred through the skull to the cochlea causing generation of nerve impulses
Data Source
AI summary
A bone conduction device is configured to classify received sound signals (sounds) into one or more sound categories/classes (i.e., determine the input signal type). The bone conduction device is configured to dynamically set a maximum force output (MFO) of the bone conduction device at least based on the sound class of the sound signals.