Hearing System Directivity Control via Handheld Orientation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hearing systems face challenges in providing adjustable and precise directivity of audio data, with manual adjustments being cumbersome, imprecise, and requiring additional remote controls, which can be inconvenient and burdensome for users.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a handheld device generates orientation data used to control the directivity of audio data, allowing users to adjust the directivity by manipulating the spatial orientation of the handheld device, eliminating the need for separate remote controls and providing visual verification of changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment controls are provided in the hearing system, then directivity adjustment capability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring additional remote controls and cumbersome adjustment procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the handheld device (smartphone or tablet) serve multiple functions: it acts as both a general-purpose computing device and a control interface for the hearing system. The orientation sensor in the handheld device detects spatial orientation to generate control data that adjusts audio directivity, eliminating the need for dedicated remote controls while leveraging an existing multi-functional device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the control functionality into the existing handheld device that users already carry. Instead of adding separate control devices, the system combines the hearing system control with the handheld device's existing sensors and processing capabilities, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adjustment functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment controls are provided in the hearing system, then directivity adjustment capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome and imprecise adjustment procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control interfaces (buttons, knobs, sliders) with an orientation-based control system. The handheld device's orientation sensor detects the spatial orientation of the device, and this orientation data directly determines the audio directivity parameters. Users simply point the handheld device toward the desired sound source, and the system automatically adjusts the beamforming parameters, providing precise and intuitive control without manual adjustment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the control parameter from manual slider positions or button presses to spatial orientation angles. By using the orientation sensor to detect the angle and direction the handheld device is pointing, the system translates physical orientation parameters directly into audio beamforming parameters, enabling precise and natural control of directivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electronic devices are used for hearing system control, then control functionality is improved, but the number of electronic devices needed increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the multi-functionality of the handheld device to perform both general computing tasks and hearing system control. The existing orientation sensors, processors, and communication interfaces in smartphones and tablets are utilized for controlling audio directivity, eliminating the need for separate control devices and reducing the total number of electronic devices users need to carry and manage.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a method of operating a hearing system comprising an ear unit wearable at an ear of a user, an output transducer included in the ear unit, and a detector arrangement comprising a plurality of spatially separated sound detectors and configured to provide audio data representative of the detected sound.