Hearing Device Field Fitting via Mobile Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current process of fitting hearing devices is cumbersome and time-consuming, requiring users to visit a hearing care specialist multiple times to adjust settings, as the initial fitting may not effectively address real-life hearing situations, such as wind noise, until further adjustments are made in the field.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a hearing device and a mobile device to detect hearing situations through sensor data analysis, allowing users to adjust sound processing parameters in real-time using a user interface, and store preferences for future use, enabling direct testing and refinement of settings in everyday environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the hearing device uses fixed sound processing parameters set at the fitter's office, then the device can be initially configured, but the settings cannot be effectively adjusted for real-life hearing situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment of sound processing parameters by allowing users to modify hearing program settings directly in real-life situations. The system transitions from static parameters set at the fitter's office to dynamic parameters that can be adjusted on-the-go based on actual hearing needs, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where users can test different sound processing parameters in real-life situations and provide feedback through the mobile device. This feedback loop enables continuous optimization of hearing settings without requiring repeated visits to the fitter, thereby improving adaptability while managing complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If the user visits the fitter's office multiple times for adjustment, then the hearing device settings can be refined, but the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to perform self-adjustment of hearing device parameters using a mobile device in real-life situations. This self-service capability allows users to refine hearing settings independently without requiring multiple visits to the fitter's office, thereby maintaining fitting precision while significantly reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides users with pre-configured hearing programs and parameters that can be adjusted in advance or on-demand before needing them in specific situations. This preliminary preparation reduces the need for repeated adjustments and visits, improving efficiency while maintaining precision.
3Reliability
If the user tests settings in the field immediately, then real-life performance can be evaluated, but the user lacks the ability to adjust parameters without returning to the office
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the mobile device serve multiple functions: it acts as both a configuration tool and a real-time adjustment interface. The same mobile device used for initial setup at the fitter's office is also used for field testing and parameter adjustment, eliminating the need for specialized equipment and improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device serves as an intermediary between the hearing device and the user in field conditions. It provides the user interface and processing capability needed for adjusting parameters remotely, making the system as easy to operate in the field as it is in the office while ensuring reliable sound processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for adjusting a hearing device comprises: generating an audio stream with a microphone of the hearing device; processing the audio stream with a sound processor of the hearing device thus providing a processed audio stream and outputting the processed audio stream to a user of the hearing device; detecting a hearing situation with a hearing situation detector, wherein the hearing situation is associated with a configurable sound processing parameter adjustable by the user of the hearing device; when the hearing situation is detected, providing a user interface to the user of the hearing device for adjusting the configurable sound processing parameter; and, when the user has adjusted the configurable sound processing parameter, applying the configurable sound processing parameter to the sound processor.