Inductive Battery Assembly for Hearing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hearing device users face inconvenience when the rechargeable battery runs out, as they need to detach and recharge the device, which disrupts continuous use and is not user-friendly.
Innovation Solution
A battery assembly with an inductive coil and electronic circuit that converts direct current from a battery to alternating current, allowing external powering of the hearing device via inductive charging, providing an emergency power source that can be carried and used until regular charging is available.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rechargeable battery is used in the hearing device, then the device can be recharged and used repeatedly, but the user must detach and recharge the device when the battery runs out, which is inconvenient and reduces user friendliness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing an external battery assembly that can be attached to the hearing device in advance or when needed, rather than requiring the user to detach and recharge the internal battery. The external battery assembly includes a battery, attachment members, and an electronic circuit that converts DC to AC for inductive charging, enabling the device to be powered externally without detachment.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the hearing device is detached for recharging, then the battery can be recharged, but the continuous use of the hearing device is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing an external battery assembly that acts as a mediator between the power source and the hearing device. The assembly includes an electronic circuit that converts DC from the battery to AC, enabling inductive charging of the hearing device while it remains attached and in use, thus maintaining continuous hearing compensation.
3Reliability
If an external power source is provided for emergency use, then the user can continue using the hearing device when the internal battery is depleted, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the power supply system into two independent parts: the internal battery integrated into the hearing device and the external battery assembly that can be attached when needed. The external assembly includes a battery, attachment members, and an electronic circuit, allowing the system to function with either power source independently, thus reducing overall complexity while improving reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables continuous use of the hearing device even when the internal battery is depleted, improving user experience by providing a convenient and portable external power supply.
Implementation Method 1
the electronic circuit is connected to the first electrode, and wherein the electronic circuit is configured for converting direct current from the battery to alternating current in the inductive coil
Data Source
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AI summary
A battery assembly and method for powering a hearing device is disclosed. The battery assembly comprises a main part having at least a first surface and a second surface and comprising a first electrode formed as an inductive coil; a first attachment member on at least a primary part of the first surface for attaching the main part to a hearing device housing of the hearing device; second attachment member for attaching a direct current source to the main part; and an electronic circuit having a first input terminal and a second input terminal connectable to a first output terminal and a second output terminal, respectively, of the direct current source, wherein the electronic circuit is connected to the first electrode, and wherein the electronic circuit is configured for converting direct current from the direct current source to alternating current in the inductive coil.