Hearing Device Customization Using Ear Landmark Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hearing device customization methods often result in measurement errors, leading to improper fits and increased costs due to the need for re-adjustment and delayed delivery, as decentralized measurements may not accurately capture the unique dimensions and anatomy of individual ears.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize image data to identify specific anatomical landmarks of the ear, such as the helix and tragus, to determine device parameters like the length and curvature of hearing device components, allowing for precise customization and quality control, potentially using a combination of automatic and manual processing with reference models and image recognition algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If decentralized measurement methods are used by local providers, then the customization process can be initiated locally, but measurement accuracy deteriorates leading to incorrect dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses 3D scanning to create a digital copy of the user's ear anatomy. This digital model can be captured locally by dispensers using portable scanners, then transmitted to centralized facilities for precise measurement extraction and device customization, resolving the contradiction between local accessibility and measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a digital 3D model as an intermediary between the local measurement process and centralized customization. The scanner captures ear geometry locally, creates a digital representation, which then serves as the basis for accurate dimension extraction at the centralized facility, bridging the gap between decentralized convenience and centralized precision
2Loss of time
If measurements are taken at decentralized locations, then delivery time can be reduced, but measurement errors increase requiring re-adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary 3D scanning and digital model creation at the time of dispensing, before the actual device manufacturing begins. This preliminary capture of ear geometry allows the customization process to start immediately without waiting for centralized measurements, reducing delivery time while maintaining accuracy through subsequent centralized verification
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where digitally captured ear measurements are transmitted to centralized facilities for verification and validation. The centralized system can compare the digital model against established anatomical standards and provide feedback to confirm measurement accuracy before proceeding with device manufacturing, preventing errors without delaying the process
3Ease of manufacture
If manual measurement methods are used by dispensers, then the process can be performed without specialized equipment, but measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with optical 3D scanning technology. Instead of using rulers, calipers, or visual estimation, the system uses light-based scanning to automatically capture the ear's three-dimensional geometry, eliminating the need for specialized measurement equipment while achieving high precision through automated image processing and landmark detection algorithms
Data Source
AI summary
A method and a device for determining a device parameter of a hearing device to be worn at the ear of a user, the method comprising: obtaining image data of one or more images, the image data including first image data of a first image of the outer human ear at a first angle; identifying, based on the first image data, a first anatomical landmark and a second anatomical landmark of the outer human ear using a processor; identifying the position of the first anatomical landmark and the second anatomical landmark in the first image; determining the device parameter of the hearing device based on the first anatomical landmark and the second anatomical landmark; and outputting the device parameter.