Hearing Test System with SNR-Based Threshold Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional assistive listening devices fail to adapt to changing hearing conditions of users and are limited in their application to different hearing situations, leading to suboptimal performance and restricted usability.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for conducting a hearing test that adjusts hearing thresholds based on signal-to-noise ratios, using a hearing test system with a sound detecting unit, sound generating unit, user interface, and control unit to determine and modify hearing test results, allowing for personalized adjustments to assistive listening devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional hearing tests are conducted in noise environments, then the convenience and accessibility of hearing tests is improved, but the measurement precision of hearing thresholds deteriorates due to background noise interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of background noise into a beneficial measurement tool by calculating the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and using it to adjust hearing threshold measurements. The system measures both the testing signal and background noise, then uses the SNR relationship to compensate for noise effects, transforming the previously harmful noise environment into a usable testing condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from raw hearing threshold to adjusted hearing threshold by incorporating SNR compensation. The control unit calculates adjusted hearing thresholds based on the relationship between testing signals and background noise levels, thereby adapting the measurement to noise environments while maintaining accuracy.
2Device complexity
If assistive listening devices use fixed hearing curves, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different hearing conditions and users is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static fixed hearing curve into a dynamic adjustable parameter. The system determines adjusted hearing thresholds based on individual user measurements and SNR conditions, allowing the hearing curve to adapt dynamically to different users and environmental conditions rather than relying on predetermined fixed curves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system measures the user's actual hearing threshold and SNR conditions, then uses this information to determine and adjust the appropriate hearing curve parameters. This closed-loop approach allows the device to adapt to individual user needs and changing conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for a hearing test includes receiving a first testing hearing threshold for a subject at a first frequency under a first background noise level; calculating a first testing signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) between the first testing hearing threshold and the first background noise level; responsive to the first testing SNR, receiving a first adjusted hearing threshold; and responsive to the first adjusted hearing threshold, modifying a first hearing test result of the first frequency.