Wireless Hearing Aid and Cochlear Implant Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a challenge in coordinating wireless communications between different types of hearing devices, such as hearing aids and cochlear implants, which can lead to difficulties in synchronizing and coordinating audio signals across these devices.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced that configures and synchronizes first and second hearing devices via a wireless connection, allowing them to function as a binaural pair by exchanging parameter data, enabling coordinated operations and simultaneous control through an external device.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If hearing devices of different types (hearing aid and cochlear implant) are used simultaneously, then the user can address different hearing loss requirements in each ear, but it becomes difficult to coordinate communications and synchronize audio signals between the different device types

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to use different hearing device types for different earsVSAvoiddifficulty in coordinating communications between different device types
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a wireless communication system that acts as an intermediary between hearing aids and cochlear implants. This system enables parameter data exchange and coordinated control between different device types, allowing them to function together as a binaural pair despite their different communication protocols and operational characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal communication framework that can handle multiple device types (hearing aids and cochlear implants) through a single coordinated system. The system provides multi-functional capabilities by enabling both independent device operation and synchronized binaural operation across different device types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If hearing devices of different types are coordinated to function as a binaural pair, then audio balance and synchronization are improved, but the complexity of configuration and control increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaudio synchronization precision between devicesVSAvoiddifficulty in configuring and controlling different device types
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service capabilities where the hearing devices automatically exchange parameter data and configure themselves for coordinated operation. The system performs self-diagnosis and automatic synchronization, reducing the need for manual configuration by healthcare professionals or users while maintaining high audio synchronization precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where parameter data is continuously exchanged between devices and the control system. This feedback enables automatic adjustment and optimization of audio synchronization, allowing the system to maintain precise coordination while simplifying operation through automated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20250024211A1Hearing aid and cochlear implant wireless system
Publication Date: 2025.01.16 STARKEY LABORATORIES INC
  • US20250024211A1 patent drawing
  • US20250024211A1 patent drawing
  • US20250024211A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed herein, among other things, are systems and methods for wireless communication with hearing devices. A method includes configuring, using a first hearing device configured to be worn or implanted in a first ear of a user, a first device parameter data. The method further includes transmitting, from the first hearing device via a wireless connection to a second hearing device configured to be worn or implanted in a second ear of the user, the first device parameter data. The method also includes receiving, at the second hearing device via the wireless connection, the first device parameter data from the first hearing device, and configuring the second hearing device for coordinated binaural operations with the first hearing device using the first device parameter data.