Mobile Device Hearing Augmentation via Self-Service DSP
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hearing aid devices require professional intervention for customization and fail to measure the full scope of human auditory perception, making them inconvenient and unaffordable for many individuals with hearing impairments.
Innovation Solution
Mobile compute devices, such as smartphones, are enhanced with software and hardware to function as hearing enhancement or augmentation systems, allowing for self-customization and improved sound signal processing without the need for audiologists, using audiological assessments and digital signal processing to tailor audio output to individual needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional hearing aid devices use dedicated hardware and software with multiple operation parameters, then hearing correction can be customized for individual needs, but the devices become complex and require professional intervention for adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling users to independently adjust hearing aid parameters through a mobile device interface without requiring audiologist intervention. Users can access and modify operation parameters directly, transforming the device from requiring professional service to enabling user autonomy in customization and adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a mobile compute device as an intermediary between the user and the hearing aid system. This intermediary provides a user-friendly interface and processing capabilities that simplify complex parameter adjustments, allowing users to customize hearing correction without directly interacting with the complex hardware parameters of the hearing aid itself.
2Measurement precision
If conventional hearing assessments are performed by health professionals, then accurate hearing measures can be obtained, but the process requires recurrent professional visits and is inaccessible to many individuals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling mobile compute devices to perform multiple functions including hearing assessment, parameter customization, and device control. This multi-functional approach allows the same device users already possess to serve as both communication tool and hearing evaluation instrument, eliminating the need for specialized professional equipment and visits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical system of in-person professional assessments with a digital system running on mobile devices. Hearing assessments that traditionally required physical presence and specialized equipment are replaced by software-based evaluation tools that can be accessed remotely, maintaining measurement precision while dramatically improving accessibility.
3Reliability
If conventional hearing aid devices require professional fitting and adjustment, then optimal hearing correction can be achieved, but the process becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing hearing assessments and parameter optimizations in advance through mobile device evaluations. Users can complete comprehensive hearing evaluations and receive customized settings before needing professional adjustment, reducing the frequency and urgency of professional visits while maintaining correction quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes feedback loops where users can monitor their hearing aid performance and make real-time adjustments based on their auditory experience. This continuous feedback mechanism allows users to self-optimize their device settings, reducing reliance on recurrent professional adjustments and maintaining reliable hearing correction over time.
Data Source
AI summary
The presently disclosed subject matter includes a mobile compute device configure to produce a set of audiological assessment data based on a set of stimulus signals presented to a user via a source device and a set of response signals provided as a response to the set of stimulus signals. The mobile compute device identifies a personal audiological profile of the user at least based on a psychoacoustic model and the set of audiological assessment data. The mobile compute device builds a digital signal processing model including a set of audio digital signal processing functions. The mobile compute device executes the digital signal processing model to produce an output audio signal in response to an input audio signal received from the source device, the output audio signal is based on a modified version the input audio signal. The mobile compute device transmits the output audio signal via the source device.