Hearing Device Connector Markings for Accurate ITE Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Insertion of the ITE component in hearing devices is challenging for new users, particularly in estimating the correct insertion depth, affecting sound quality and amplification.
Innovation Solution
A method of customizing a hearing device connector with removable visual markings to guide users in achieving the correct insertion depth of the ITE component.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the ITE component is inserted into the ear canal without visual guidance, then the device can be used, but the insertion depth cannot be accurately controlled, affecting sound quality and amplification
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by providing visual markings on the connector that indicate the correct insertion depth. The markings use different colors or patterns to show users how far to insert the ITE component into the ear canal, enabling accurate depth control without requiring professional assistance.
2Ease of operation
If a flexible tubing is added to the connector to aid insertion depth, then user guidance is provided, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adding visual markings only to specific portions of the connector rather than modifying the entire connector structure. The markings are applied locally to the regions that need to be inserted into the ear canal, providing guidance functionality without requiring additional flexible tubing or structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual markings that copy or represent the insertion depth information visually. Instead of adding physical structures like flexible tubing, the solution uses visual copies (markings, colors, patterns) that indicate the correct insertion depth, simplifying the device while maintaining ease of operation.
3Ease of operation
If the connector is customized with visual markings, then insertion guidance is provided, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-applying visual markings to the connector during the manufacturing process. The markings are prepared and applied in advance before the connector is assembled into the hearing device, allowing for easy identification of insertion depth during actual use without requiring complex customization procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the visual parameters (color, pattern, position) of the connector markings to indicate different insertion depths. These parameter changes are applied during manufacturing to provide clear visual guidance, enabling the connector to convey insertion depth information without complicating the overall manufacturing process.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a method of providing a custom visual marking on a earing device. The method comprising the steps of providing a hearing device comprising a behind the ear (BTE) component, an in the ear (ITE) component, and a connector having a proximal end connected to the ITE component and a distal end connected to the BTE component, the connector comprising a flexible member extending between the proximal end and the distal end, the flexible member having a length, arranging the BTE component behind the ear of the user, and arranging the ITE component in the ear canal of the user at an insertion depth depending on the user's physiology so that the connector has a covered portion inserted in the ear canal and an exposed portion outside the ear canal, wherein method further comprises the step of providing a visual marking on the connector, wherein the visual marking distinguishes the covered portion from the exposed portion. Further disclosed is a connector and a hearing device.