Orthogonal Audio Cues for Hearing Sensitivity Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods fail to effectively measure frequency-dependent hearing loss in users while they are using audio devices, which is crucial for understanding hearing sensitivities and adjusting audio output accordingly.
Innovation Solution
The use of orthogonal audio cues, such as words with specific frequency bands, is employed to isolate frequency-dependent hearing loss. These cues are combined temporally and played simultaneously or serially to determine the user's hearing sensitivity levels, with the amplitudes of unheard cues adjusted until they are recognized by the user.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional audiograms are used in a professional setting to determine frequency-dependent hearing loss, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring professional equipment and settings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential measurement function from complex professional audiometry equipment by using orthogonal audio cues that can be delivered through standard earphones. The method isolates frequency-dependent hearing loss measurement capability from the need for specialized acoustic chambers and professional equipment, enabling the same measurement accuracy to be achieved with consumer-grade devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/acoustic measurement system (traditional audiometry equipment requiring controlled acoustic environments) with an electronic signal processing system. By using orthogonal audio cues and spectral analysis, the system substitutes complex acoustic measurement infrastructure with electronic signal generation and analysis capabilities that can function in everyday environments.
2Measurement precision
If traditional audiograms are used in a professional setting, then measurement accuracy is improved, but ease of operation worsens due to requiring professional settings and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to perform their own hearing sensitivity measurements without professional assistance. The orthogonal audio cue method is designed to be self-administered through a mobile device application, where users independently complete the measurement protocol and receive results, eliminating the need for trained professionals to administer traditional audiograms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional measurement approach by having users actively respond to orthogonal audio cues presented across different frequency bands, rather than having professionals present tones and record thresholds. This user-centered response paradigm makes the measurement process more intuitive and easier to perform independently while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If orthogonal audio cues are used to isolate frequency-dependent hearing loss, then measurement precision for frequency-specific loss is improved, but the complexity of the measurement method increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the hearing measurement process into independent frequency band assessments using orthogonal audio cues. Each cue targets specific frequency regions, allowing the measurement system to evaluate hearing sensitivity across different frequency bands separately and combine results to determine frequency-dependent hearing loss patterns, thereby improving measurement precision through structured segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the audio cues, specifically varying frequency content, duration, and intensity of orthogonal cues to probe different aspects of hearing sensitivity. By systematically changing these parameters across multiple measurement trials, the system achieves precise frequency-dependent hearing loss characterization while managing methodological complexity through structured parameter variation.
Data Source
AI summary
At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to a method of determining hearing loss using audio cues whose spectrum is orthogonal to each other to identify a wearer's hearing loss and using the information to adjust audio to normal listening levels. Other aspects are also described and claimed.