Hearing Device Remote Audio Processing Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hearing devices are limited by their preconfigured sound processing functionalities, requiring upgrades to add new functions, which can be costly and restrictive for users with specific hearing needs.
Innovation Solution
A hearing device system that allows remote sound processing through a connected media device, enabling users to download and apply customized sound processing applications, thereby expanding available sound processing functions without hardware or software upgrades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hearing devices use preconfigured sound processors with fixed functionality, then device reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sound processing functionality into two separate segments: a core sound processor within the hearing device that handles reliable baseline processing, and an external media device that provides additional customizable processing functions. This segmentation allows the internal device to remain simple and reliable while the external device provides adaptability through downloadable applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a media device as an intermediary between the user and the hearing device's sound processing capabilities. This intermediary provides access to a broader range of sound processing functions without requiring modifications to the core hearing device, thus maintaining reliability while enhancing adaptability through external processing applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hearing devices include multiple sound processing functions, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts complex sound processing functions from the hearing device and relocates them to an external media device. This extraction reduces the complexity of the internal sound processor while maintaining access to diverse processing capabilities through the external device's downloadable applications and wireless connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the external media device a universal platform that can provide multiple different sound processing functions through various downloadable applications. This universal approach allows one device to serve multiple processing needs without requiring each function to be built into the hearing device itself.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hearing devices are upgraded with new sound processing functionality, then adaptability is improved, but loss of substance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a model where sound processing applications can be downloaded and updated externally, similar to software updates, rather than requiring expensive hardware upgrades. This approach allows users to access new functionality through low-cost digital downloads instead of costly device replacements or upgrades.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses digital copying of sound processing algorithms and applications from the media device to the hearing device temporarily, allowing users to access advanced processing functions without permanently installing complex hardware. The processed audio signals are generated based on these copied processing functions and then transmitted back to the hearing device.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are methods, systems, and devices for remotely-processing one or more audio signals received at a hearing device. An example method includes a hearing device receiving from a media device a command to send to the media device an audio signal. Responsive to at least the command, the method includes the hearing device sending to the media device the audio signal. The method also includes the hearing device receiving from the media device a remotely-processed signal. Data included in the remotely-processed signals is based on audio data included in the audio signal. Based on at least the remotely-processed signal, the method includes the hearing device generating a stimulation signal and using the stimulation signal to deliver at least one stimulus to a recipient of the hearing device.