Binaural Hearing Aid Auditory Training Game
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hearing aid users face difficulties in sound localization and adaptation due to limited frequency resolution, impaired temporal processing, and cognitive changes, leading to reluctance in using their aids, especially in situations where they experience front/back confusion and unfamiliar sound frequencies, and stigmatization issues.
Innovation Solution
A binaural hearing aid system with a method of auditory training that uses Head-Related Transfer Functions (HRTFs) to simulate sound movement, incorporating a game-like interface where users navigate and catch virtual sounds using volume controls and program buttons, with adaptive difficulty levels and optional auxiliary devices for enhanced control and feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hearing aids provide frequency dependent amplification to compensate for hearing loss, then audibility is improved, but users experience front/back confusion and difficulty with sound localization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an auditory training game as an intermediary tool that bridges the gap between hearing aid amplification and proper sound localization. The game uses virtual sound sources with known spatial positions to train users' localization abilities, allowing them to gradually adapt to the amplified sound environment while learning to correctly interpret spatial cues.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by comparing the user's perceived sound direction with the actual virtual sound source position. Through the game interface, users receive information about their localization accuracy, enabling them to adjust their listening strategies and improve their ability to distinguish front/back and directional cues over time.
2Reliability
If hearing aids amplify sound in frequency regions where users have severe hearing loss, then users can hear frequencies they previously couldn't, but users experience discomfort and reluctance to use the aids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by introducing auditory training before and during the adaptation period. The training game prepares users' auditory systems for the enhanced frequency coverage by gradually exposing them to amplified sounds in a controlled, engaging environment, reducing shock and discomfort when first wearing the hearing aids in real-world situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effect of sudden frequency amplification into a benefit by using it as the basis for an engaging training game. The unusual or initially uncomfortable sounds become the foundation for an entertaining activity that motivates users to spend time adapting to their new hearing capabilities, transforming a problem into a solution.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If hearing aids are designed to be small and inconspicuous to reduce stigmatization, then cosmetic appearance is improved, but users have limited control interfaces and shorter battery life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the smartphone serve multiple functions: it acts as a remote control for the hearing aids, provides the interface for the auditory training game, and offers feedback and monitoring capabilities. This allows the hearing aids themselves to remain small and cosmetically acceptable while the smartphone handles the complex control and interaction requirements.
Data Source
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AI summary
A binaural hearing aid system (100) is configured to execute a method of auditory training, wherein the hearing aid user is trained by trying to bring a randomly moving simulated acoustic source to a desired position. The invention further provides a method of auditory training.