Hearing Aid Programming via Abstraction Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hearing assistance devices require a burdensome 'mailbox' approach for programming and data access, which puts the burden on software applications and requires intimate knowledge of memory maps, limiting efficient remote access and configuration.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a low energy digital communication protocol using a tree of characteristics and descriptors, accessible via an abstraction layer, allowing individual read/write cycles and eliminating the need for a mailbox system, enabling wireless communication like Bluetooth LE for efficient programming and configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mailbox approach is used for programming and data access, then data can be downloaded and uploaded to hearing assistance devices, but the software application bears the burden of reading and writing all device parameters requiring intimate knowledge of memory maps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary abstraction layer between the software application and the hearing assistance device memory. This layer provides standardized access methods that hide the complex memory map details, allowing applications to program and configure devices without needing intimate knowledge of internal memory structures. The intermediary translates high-level configuration commands into low-level memory operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If direct memory access is required for parameter updates, then precise control is achieved, but the complexity of programming increases and universal programming across different devices becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the device parameters into organized groups or categories with standardized access interfaces. Instead of requiring direct access to individual memory addresses, parameters are grouped into logical units that can be accessed through unified methods. This segmentation maintains precise control over parameter updates while reducing programming complexity through systematic organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal programming interface that works across different hearing assistance device models. By defining standardised access methods that work with various device types, the system enables universal programming without requiring device-specific memory map knowledge. The interface adapts to different devices while maintaining consistent programming semantics.
3Quantity of substance
If a mailbox system is used for communication, then data transfer is possible, but the request/response loop increases communication overhead and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by establishing communication protocols and data structures before actual data transfer occurs. Configuration parameters are prepared and validated in advance, and communication buffers are pre-allocated. This preliminary setup reduces the need for repeated request/response cycles during actual data transfer, improving communication efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein, among other things, are systems and methods for programming and modifying hearing assistance devices via low energy digital communications. One aspect of the present subject matter includes a method of using a hearing assistance device. The method includes providing characteristics and descriptors of the hearing assistance device compatible with a low energy digital communication protocol, the characteristics and descriptors accessible to an external communication device. According to various embodiments, the method also includes accepting individual read/write cycles from an external communication device configured to use the low energy digital communication protocol to read and update the characteristics and descriptors using an abstraction layer. The hearing assistance device is configured to compensate for a wearer's hearing loss based on the updated characteristics and descriptors, in various embodiments.