Hearing Device Connector with User Guide Marker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users, especially new users or those with reduced abilities, face challenges in correctly inserting the Receiver-in-ear (RIE) device into their ears, leading to suboptimal fit and performance of hearing devices.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a first portion designed to be inserted into the ear canal and an identifiable marker acting as a user guide, which assists users in correctly inserting the In-the-ear (ITE) component of the hearing device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the RIE device is designed to be inserted into the ear canal, then the hearing device can provide optimal sound delivery, but insertion becomes challenging for new users or users with reduced abilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing instructional content before the user performs the insertion operation. The method includes transmitting instructions to a computing device prior to insertion, guiding the user through the correct procedure in advance. This allows users with reduced abilities to understand and execute the insertion process correctly, thereby maintaining reliable sound delivery while improving ease of operation.
2Ease of operation
If the connector is made thin and flexible to fit in the ear canal, then it can be inserted easily, but it becomes difficult for users to locate and grip
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by instructing users to identify the connector through its color characteristics. The instructional content transmitted to the computing device includes guidance on locating the connector based on its color, making it easier for users to detect and grip the thin, flexible connector that would otherwise be difficult to see.
3Ease of operation
If the connector is made transparent or inconspicuous to be aesthetically pleasing, then it is less visible, but users cannot easily locate it for insertion or removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by providing real-time instructional guidance to users through a computing device. The instructions include feedback on whether the connector has been correctly located and inserted, allowing users to adjust their actions based on this information. This enables the connector to remain aesthetically pleasing and inconspicuous while ensuring users can still locate and manipulate it correctly.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a connector for providing sound into an ear canal of a user. The connector is configured to connect a behind-the-ear, BTE, component of a hearing device to an ITE component of the hearing device. The connector comprises a first portion configured to be connected to the ITE component of the hearing device and configured to be at least partly inserted into an ear canal of the user. The first portion is configured to extend at least partly in the ear canal of the user when the connector is in its intended position at the ear of the user. The connector further comprises at least one identifiable marker being a user guide.