Hearing Aid IP Stack for Low-Energy Remote Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hearing aid systems require a local auxiliary device with proprietary software to communicate with remote servers, limiting flexibility and increasing power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a protocol stack in the hearing aid that combines internet protocol with Bluetooth-based protocols, allowing direct communication with remote entities without the need for vendor-specific software on auxiliary devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a local auxiliary device with proprietary software is used to communicate between hearing aid and remote server, then communication functionality is achieved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the proprietary software dependency from the hearing aid system by implementing a standard protocol stack (Bluetooth + IP) directly in the hearing aid. This removes the need for vendor-specific auxiliary devices and their proprietary software, simplifying the overall system while maintaining communication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hearing aid is equipped with a universal protocol stack that enables it to communicate using standard Bluetooth and IP protocols. This multi-functional approach allows the hearing aid to interact with various devices and servers without requiring device-specific proprietary software, reducing system complexity.
2Use of energy by moving object
If Bluetooth protocol is used for local connection, then power consumption is reduced, but communication flexibility with remote entities is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges Bluetooth protocol with Internet Protocol (IP) to create a hybrid communication system. The Bluetooth protocol handles local wireless connection with low power consumption, while the IP protocol layer enables flexible communication with remote entities over the internet, combining the advantages of both protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a protocol stack dimension to the Bluetooth connection, layering IP protocols over Bluetooth. This dimensional approach allows the system to maintain low-power Bluetooth connectivity while enabling flexible remote communication through standard IP-based protocols.
3Reliability
If vendor-specific software is installed on auxiliary device, then hearing aid communication is enabled, but ease of operation and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication functionality into standard, widely-supported protocol layers (Bluetooth and IP) that are already present in most devices. This segmentation eliminates the need for users to install proprietary software, as the communication capability is built into the hearing aid using universal protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
A hearing aid system comprising at least a first hearing aid, wherein the first hearing aid is configured to establish a communication link over the internet with a remote entity based on a protocol stack, wherein the protocol stack includes an internet protocol, and the protocol stack is implemented in the first hearing aid.