Hearing Apparatus Programming Socket Multi-Function Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Hearing devices face space constraints due to the need for multiple connections for programming and signal processing, which increases in complexity with added functions.

Innovation Solution

A hearing apparatus with a programming socket utilizing a third connection set to a fixed internal potential, allowing multiple usage of connections through a coupling element, enabling the control system to deduce function changes based on potential deviations, thereby optimizing space and allowing additional functional units.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple connections are provided for programming and signal processing, then the hearing device can accommodate numerous functions and individual requirements, but the device size and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprogramming capabilityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The first connection of the programming socket is configured to serve multiple functions: it can be set to a predetermined potential to indicate programming mode, or it can function as a signal input for user interactions such as button presses. This multi-functionality allows the hearing device to accommodate programming capabilities without requiring separate dedicated connections for each function, thereby reducing the overall device size while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If more functions are implemented in the hearing device, then individual requirements are better accommodated, but the number of connections increases leading to space problems

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesignal processing functionsVSAvoidnumber of connections
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is designed to interpret the potential state of the first connection to determine whether it is in programming mode or receiving user input signals. This allows the same physical connection to support multiple functions (programming and user interaction) without requiring separate connections, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive signal processing capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses parameter changes (potential levels) of the first connection to differentiate between different functions. By detecting whether the first connection is at a predetermined potential or deviating from it, the control system can distinguish between programming mode and user input mode, allowing one connection to serve multiple purposes without increasing the number of physical connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8259971B2Hearing apparatus with controlled programming socket
Publication Date: 2012.09.04 SIVANTOS PTE LTD
  • US8259971B2 patent drawing
  • US8259971B2 patent drawing
  • US8259971B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A Hearing apparatuses is provided. The hearing apparatus includes a programming socket that features at least a first connection and a second connection, with a signal processing system that is connected to the second connection, and with a control system. The control system taps the potential of the first connection. The control system furthermore engages the signal processing system in a first function when the first connection reaches the predetermined potential and in a second function when the potential of the first connection deviates from the predetermined potential. This enables multiple usages for example of the input of a programming interface of a signal processing IC.