Hearing Aid Dynamic Compression Using Binaural Similarity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hearing aids using multiband dynamic compressors struggle to provide appropriate loudness compensation for both narrowband and broadband signals, leading to perceived loudness being too high in certain situations due to the non-linearity of human hearing and varying types of hearing impairments, and the lack of suitable adjustments for monaural and binaural signals.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that analyze binaural similarity between audio signals from both ears to adjust amplification values in hearing aids, using a combination signal analyzer and amplification adjuster to provide different amplification values based on signal type, bandwidth, and level, allowing for more precise loudness compensation by considering binaural loudness summation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiband dynamic compressors apply independent amplification regulation in each frequency band, then narrowband loudness compensation is improved, but broadband binaural signals are perceived as too loud
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the amplification regulation adaptive rather than static. The system dynamically adjusts amplification values based on real-time signal classification (narrowband/broadband, monaural/binaural) and measured loudness levels, allowing the hearing aid to respond differently to varying signal conditions and resolve the contradiction between narrowband compensation and broadband control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the amplification parameter based on signal characteristics. By measuring the actual loudness level of processed signals and comparing it to target levels, the system adjusts amplification values dynamically according to bandwidth and binaurality parameters, thereby resolving the contradiction between improving narrowband compensation and controlling broadband loudness
2Object-affected harmful factors
If amplification values are reduced for broadband binaural signals, then loudness perception is normalized, but monaural narrowband signals become too low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing different amplification strategies for different signal types and frequency bands. The system classifies signals as narrowband or broadband, monaural or binaural, and applies tailored amplification values to each category, allowing optimized loudness compensation for each specific signal characteristic without compromising others
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different amplification regimes based on real-time signal classification. By continuously monitoring signal characteristics and adjusting amplification values accordingly, the hearing aid can provide appropriate loudness for both monaural narrowband and binaural broadband signals under varying listening conditions
3Measurement precision
If loudness-based fitting methods are used, then individual loudness sensation is compensated, but measurement effort and fitting time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the hearing aid to automatically measure loudness levels and adjust amplification values without requiring extensive manual fitting procedures. The system performs automatic loudness measurements during normal operation and adapts parameters autonomously, significantly reducing the time and effort required for professional fitting while maintaining individualized loudness compensation
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for controlling a dynamic compressor of a hearing aid includes a combination signal analyzer for determining the binaural similarity of a left and right audio signal and an amplification adjuster for providing an amplification value for a band of the left or right audio signal in dependence on the binaural similarity and a level of the left or right audio signal in the band.