Radar-Based Pinna Shape Detection for Hearing Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hearing devices struggle to achieve a precise fit for each user's unique pinna shape, affecting sound quality, noise cancellation, comfort, and spatial audio rendering.
Innovation Solution
A hearing device equipped with a first radar sensor that captures radar data indicative of the pinna shape, allowing the processing unit to determine and output the pinna shape for improved fitting and audio processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a hearing device is designed to fit all users universally, then manufacturing cost and device complexity are reduced, but sound quality, noise cancellation, and spatial audio rendering deteriorate due to inability to accommodate unique pinna shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The hearing device incorporates a radar sensor that dynamically captures pinna shape data and enables real-time adaptation of audio processing parameters. The system transitions from a static universal fit to a dynamic personalized fit, where the device automatically adjusts to each user's unique ear anatomy through captured radar data and machine learning algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters by using radar sensors to measure pinna geometry and then adjusting audio processing parameters (HRTF, noise cancellation settings, equalization) based on the measured shape. This allows the same physical device to optimize acoustic performance for different users by modifying software parameters rather than hardware configuration.
2Measurement precision
If external sensors are used to capture pinna data, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity and user convenience deteriorate due to additional equipment and setup requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The radar sensor is integrated directly into the hearing device housing, merging the measurement function with the audio delivery system. This eliminates the need for separate external scanning equipment, allowing users to simply insert the hearing device to automatically capture pinna data during initial setup or calibration routines.
Solution Approach 2:
The hearing device performs self-measurement of the user's pinna shape using its own integrated radar sensor. The system automatically captures geometric data, processes it through machine learning algorithms, and configures personalized audio parameters without requiring external equipment, technical assistance, or complex user setup procedures.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If pinna shape data is captured using traditional methods (photography, scanning), then measurement capability is achieved, but ease of operation and user experience deteriorate due to complex setup procedures and external equipment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical and optical measurement methods (physical scanners, cameras, molds) with radar-based electromagnetic measurement. This enables contactless, rapid capture of pinna geometry by emitting radio waves that bounce off the ear structure, eliminating the need for physical interaction or complex positioning required by traditional methods.
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
The solution enables a more personalized fit and enhanced audio rendering by accurately determining the pinna shape, improving sound quality, comfort, and spatial audio experience.
Implementation Method 1
a first radar sensor configured for obtaining first radar data indicative of a first pinna of the first ear
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a hearing device comprising a first radar sensor configured for obtaining first radar data indicative of a shape of a first pinna of the first ear of a user. A processing unit of the hearing device is configured to receive the first radar data from the first radar sensor, and determine, based on the first radar data, a shape of the first pinna.