Shielded Hearing Antenna Layout for EMI-Resistant Induction Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hearing devices face challenges in reducing electro-magnetic interference (EMI) from other electronic components, which affects the performance of antennas configured for magnetic induction communication, given the spatial constraints of these devices.
Innovation Solution
A hearing device design incorporating a first antenna for magnetic induction communication and a second antenna with a shielding part to mitigate EMI, where the shielding part is strategically positioned and configured to minimize interference from electronic components, allowing effective communication in both magnetic induction and GHz frequency bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a hearing device includes multiple electronic components and antennas in a compact housing, then the device can achieve wireless communication functionality, but electro-magnetic interference occurs between components affecting antenna performance
Solution Approach 1:
A shielding structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the second antenna (GHz range) and the first antenna (magnetic induction). This shielding structure, comprising conductive or ferromagnetic material, acts as a mediator that blocks and redirects electro-magnetic fields, preventing interference from the second antenna from affecting the first antenna's magnetic induction communication performance
Solution Approach 2:
The hearing device's antenna system is segmented into functionally separated zones. The shielding structure divides the internal space into distinct regions: one dedicated to the second antenna for GHz wireless communication and another protected region for the first antenna for magnetic induction communication. This spatial segmentation reduces mutual interference between the different communication systems
2Volume of moving object
If the hearing device is made compact to fit in the ear canal, then spatial constraints are satisfied, but shielding effectiveness against electro-magnetic interference is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The shielding structure is designed as a nested configuration where conductive shields and ferromagnetic materials are integrated within the existing compact housing structure. The shielding elements are positioned between other components, effectively nesting the protection within the limited space without requiring additional external volume, thus maintaining compactness while providing EMI shielding
Solution Approach 2:
The shielding structure employs composite materials combining conductive materials (for electric field shielding) and ferromagnetic materials (for magnetic field shielding). This composite approach maximizes shielding effectiveness within the compact form factor by addressing both electric and magnetic components of electromagnetic interference using materials with complementary properties in a space-efficient configuration
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 significantly reduces electro-magnetic interference, enhancing the performance of the first antenna by shielding it from noise sources, thereby improving communication efficiency within spatial constraints.
Implementation Method 1
The second antenna may comprise a shielding part configured to shield the first antenna
Implementation Method 2
The first antenna may be configured for magnetic induction communication
Data Source
AI summary
A hearing device is disclosed. The hearing device comprises a plurality of antennas. The hearing device comprises electronic components including a first electronic component. The plurality of antennas comprises a first antenna and a second antenna. The first antenna may comprise a coil part coiled along a first antenna axis. The first antenna may be configured for magnetic induction communication. The second antenna may be configured for communication in a frequency band in the GHz range. The second antenna may comprise a shielding part configured to shield the first antenna.