Hearing Aid Parameter Adjustment via Component Image Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hearing aid systems face challenges in accurately and efficiently adjusting parameters for optimal sound transmission, particularly due to the complexity of acoustic coupling components and the risk of incorrect component selection or misalignment, especially when untrained individuals attempt to assemble or adjust the devices.
Innovation Solution
A method using a communication device with a camera to record images of acoustic coupling components, identify their product identity through image recognition, and assign acoustic transmission characteristics, allowing for automatic adjustment of hearing aid parameters without the need for a professionally trained acoustician, utilizing an artificial neural network for image recognition and an electronic product catalog.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a hearing aid acoustician manually adjusts parameters using traditional methods, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment methods with an automated image recognition system using a camera and artificial neural network. The system captures images of the ear canal and hearing aid components, automatically identifies anatomical features and component positions, and adjusts parameters without manual intervention, thereby maintaining precision while reducing complexity and time
Solution Approach 2:
The hearing aid system performs self-adjustment by automatically analyzing images of the user's ear canal and hearing aid configuration. The artificial neural network processes the visual data and autonomously optimizes parameters based on detected anatomical features and component positions, enabling the device to adjust itself without external assistance
2Ease of operation
If untrained individuals assemble or adjust hearing aid components, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability and measurement precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and judgment with an automated computer vision system. The camera captures images and the artificial neural network automatically identifies component positions and alignment, eliminating the need for trained personnel while ensuring consistent, reliable measurements and adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary image recognition system between the user and the parameter adjustment process. The system captures images of the ear canal and hearing aid components, processes them through an artificial neural network, and translates visual information into accurate parameter settings, serving as a mediator that ensures reliability regardless of user expertise
3Measurement precision
If traditional manual adjustment methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement and adjustment procedures with rapid automated image capture and analysis. The camera quickly captures images of the ear canal and components, the artificial neural network processes them in real-time, and parameters are adjusted instantly, maintaining precision while dramatically reducing the time required for fitting and adjustment
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple acoustic coupling components are offered with different characteristics, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and difficulty of detecting and measuring increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual identification and selection of acoustic coupling components with an automated image recognition system. The camera captures images of the components attached to the hearing aid, the artificial neural network identifies their types and characteristics, and the system automatically selects appropriate parameters, making the process as easy as attaching the components without requiring knowledge of their specific acoustic properties
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
Enables user-friendly, error-free adjustment of hearing aid parameters, ensuring proper acoustic coupling and amplification, even by non-professionals, reducing the need for on-site appointments and improving wearing comfort by simplifying the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
A method using a communication device with a camera to record images of acoustic coupling components, identify their product identity through image recognition
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for adjusting the parameters of a hearing system (1) comprising a hearing aid (3) and a communication device (5) separate from it, wherein at least one component (9, 10) for acoustic coupling of the hearing aid (3) to the ear of a hearing aid wearer is attached to the hearing aid (3), wherein at least one image of the component or each component (9, 10) used for acoustic coupling is taken by means of a camera (14) of the communication device (5), wherein the product identity of the component or each component (9, 10) is identified on the basis of the image or each component (9, 10), wherein acoustic transmission characteristics (35) are assigned to the component or each previously identified component (9, 10), and wherein the parameters of the hearing system (1) are adjusted on the basis of these acoustic transmission characteristics (35).The invention further relates to a hearing system (1) comprising a hearing aid device (3) with at least one component (9, 10) for acoustically coupling the hearing aid device (3) to the ear of a hearing aid wearer, wherein the parameters of the hearing system (1) are adjustable on the basis of the acoustic transmission characteristics (35).