Hearing Device Noise Measurement via Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Obtaining accurate audiogram data for self-fitting hearing devices is challenging due to the influence of ambient noise, which can lead to incorrect personalization of hearing settings and potential false positives during hearing tests.
Innovation Solution
A method using a pair of hearing devices, where one device performs a hearing test and the other determines ambient noise levels, reducing the risk of noise interference and optimizing processing power by distributing tasks between the two devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If ambient noise measurement is performed on the same ear being tested, then noise detection is simplified, but feedback from test tones causes false noise detection
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the noise measurement function into two separate hearing devices: one device performs the hearing test while the other device performs ambient noise measurement. This segmentation eliminates feedback interference because the measurement microphone on the non-tested ear cannot pick up test tones delivered to the opposite ear, while still providing accurate ambient noise levels for test validation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If one hearing device performs both hearing test and noise measurement, then device functionality is consolidated, but processing power becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments processing tasks across two hearing devices: one device handles hearing test delivery and response detection, while the other device handles ambient noise measurement and analysis. This distribution of computational workload prevents any single device from being overwhelmed, enabling both devices to operate within their limited processing capabilities while collectively providing comprehensive hearing test functionality with noise validation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining ambient noise during a self-fitting hearing test performed via a set of hearing devices is disclosed herein. The set of hearing devices comprises a first hearing device configured to be worn at a first ear of a user and a second hearing device configured to be worn at a second ear of the user. The method comprises: performing, via the first hearing device, a first hearing test on the first ear of the user; obtaining, via the second hearing device, an input signal while the first hearing test is being performed, wherein the input signal is indicative of ambient noise; determining a first ambient noise level based on the input signal; and outputting the first ambient noise level.