Remote Hearing Device Tuning via Speech Perceptual Tests
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hearing device tuning methods are inefficient and costly, relying on subjective user feedback and conventional tone-based testing, which can lead to suboptimal settings and require frequent visits to facilities, making them inaccessible to many users.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses speech perceptual tests to tune digital hearing devices by playing test audio representing distinctive speech features, receiving user responses, and adjusting operational parameters to improve performance, allowing for remote tuning and reducing equipment costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tone-based testing and subjective user feedback are used for hearing device tuning, then the tuning process can be performed at facilities with professional equipment, but the process becomes time-consuming, costly, and requires frequent visits to facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables users to perform speech-based tuning tests independently at home using their own devices. Users play test audio through their hearing devices, record their responses, and automatically receive tuning parameter adjustments without requiring audiologist intervention or facility visits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/facility-based tuning system with a digital automated system. Instead of requiring physical presence at a facility with professional equipment, the tuning process is transformed into a digital workflow using speech-based tests, automated response analysis, and electronic parameter adjustment that can be completed remotely.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional tone-based testing is used, then the tuning process is standardized, but it fails to capture user-specific perceptual capabilities and leads to suboptimal settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the fundamental parameter of testing from conventional tones to speech-based stimuli. By using speech sounds that represent distinctive features of human communication, the system better captures user-specific perceptual capabilities and leads to more effective, personalized hearing device settings.
3Productivity
If speech-based perceptual tests are implemented, then user-specific tuning can be achieved remotely and efficiently, but the system requires automated response analysis and parameter adjustment capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback loops where user responses to speech-based tests are automatically analyzed, and tuning parameters are adjusted based on the analysis results. This closed-loop feedback system enables efficient remote tuning while managing complexity through automation rather than manual intervention.
4Ease of operation
If remote tuning is enabled, then facility visits are reduced and accessibility improves, but the system must ensure accurate parameter adjustment without professional oversight
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces automated algorithms and speech analysis tools as intermediaries between the user and the tuning process. These intermediaries perform the complex task of analyzing speech responses and determining appropriate parameter adjustments, ensuring accuracy without requiring professional oversight or facility visits.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of tuning a hearing device includes sending a test signal to a model of a hearing device that may be remote from the actual hearing device being tuned. The test signal is encoded by the model and sent to the hearing device being tuned. The user of that hearing device sends a response signal based at least in part on the encoded test signal. This response is received and compared to the original test signal. Thereafter, an operational parameter is sent to the hearing device based on the comparison.