EP0229230A1 - Directional-microphone arrangement - Google Patents

Directional-microphone arrangement Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0229230A1
EP0229230A1 EP86113802A EP86113802A EP0229230A1 EP 0229230 A1 EP0229230 A1 EP 0229230A1 EP 86113802 A EP86113802 A EP 86113802A EP 86113802 A EP86113802 A EP 86113802A EP 0229230 A1 EP0229230 A1 EP 0229230A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
microphones
microphone
arrangement according
directional microphone
microphone arrangement
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP86113802A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0229230B1 (en
Inventor
Eberhard Prof. Dr. Zwicker
Thomas Dipl.-Ing. Beckenbauer
Günther Dipl.-Ing. Beer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Siemens AG
Original Assignee
Siemens AG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Siemens AG filed Critical Siemens AG
Priority to AT86113802T priority Critical patent/ATE53734T1/en
Publication of EP0229230A1 publication Critical patent/EP0229230A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0229230B1 publication Critical patent/EP0229230B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04RLOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/40Arrangements for obtaining a desired directivity characteristic
    • H04R25/407Circuits for combining signals of a plurality of transducers
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04RLOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/40Arrangements for obtaining a desired directivity characteristic
    • H04R25/405Arrangements for obtaining a desired directivity characteristic by combining a plurality of transducers
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04RLOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2201/00Details of transducers, loudspeakers or microphones covered by H04R1/00 but not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2201/40Details of arrangements for obtaining desired directional characteristic by combining a number of identical transducers covered by H04R1/40 but not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2201/403Linear arrays of transducers
    • HELECTRICITY
    • H04ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04RLOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R2225/00Details of deaf aids covered by H04R25/00, not provided for in any of its subgroups
    • H04R2225/43Signal processing in hearing aids to enhance the speech intelligibility

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a directional microphone arrangement according to the preamble of patent claim 1.
  • Such a microphone arrangement is, for example, in connection with a zoom microphone from US Pat. No. 4,399,327, US Pat. No. 4,412,097 or the article "Zoom Microphone” from the magazine “Funkschau” 1980, No. 19, pages 79/80 previously known.
  • These known directional microphone arrangements always include at least three individual microphones, which according to their design already have directional effect (cardioid characteristic). Such microphones are relatively bulky, complex and expensive.
  • the already directed individual microphones are also arranged such that two microphones are always aligned in the direction of the sound source, while a third microphone points away from the sound source.
  • the three already directed microphones are additively and / or subtractively connected to one another via potentiometers.
  • the signal voltage of the single microphone directed away from the sound source can be controlled to zero.
  • a 180 ° phase shifter also shifts the sound signals incident from the lateral directions by 180 ° against each other, so that they are canceled out in the adding stage. Directionality now only comes forward, i.e. towards the sound source.
  • DE-OS 22 36 968 also discloses a directional microphone arrangement for a hearing aid, which comprises at least two sets of at least two microphones each which the one set are arranged at the distal end of one eyeglass temple and the second set at the distal end of the second eyeglass temple of hearing glasses.
  • the main receiving directions of the microphones within a set are perpendicular to each other.
  • microphones are used that are already directed in advance.
  • the already directed individual microphones are additively and / or subtractively connected to one another via weighting elements.
  • the weighting elements weight the sound signals coming in from the front and from the sides differently in such a way that the influence of the sound signals coming in from the sides is minimized compared to the sound signals coming in from the front. Thus there is a directivity towards the front.
  • FR-OS 24 36 416 (which corresponds, for example, to US Pat. No. 4,334,740 or DE-OS 2,936,082) also discloses a directional microphone arrangement of this type for cameras which works with integrators, but whose transmission rate decays to high frequencies, so that Additional low-pass and high-pass filters for the reconstruction of higher frequencies (e.g. FIGS. 18 and 19 or also page 4, 2nd paragraph to page 5, 1st paragraph of FR-OS or FIGS. 18 and 19 and column 3 of the corresponding US-PS) required are.
  • the object of the present invention is to build a directional microphone arrangement of the type mentioned at the outset, in particular for hearing aids, which is optimally simple and in particular with non-directional individual microphones, e.g. Omnidirectional microphones.
  • the invention allows the use of non-directional microphones, in particular omnidirectional microphones, together with a differentiating element that has an increasing transmission factor towards high frequencies.
  • This directional microphone arrangement does not require any further filters. It is therefore technically particularly simple, cheap and particularly suitable for the care of the hearing impaired, for whom the higher frequencies are particularly important for speech intelligibility.
  • the invention is therefore preferably used in connection with hearing aids for the hearing impaired.
  • Preferred embodiments result from claims 8 to 18.
  • the directional microphone arrangement of claim 5 in conjunction with hearing aids can also be replaced according to claim 13 by an arrangement which is particularly simple in terms of circuitry, comprising at least two subminiature individual microphones already directed and a summing element.
  • Already available subminiature single microphones, e.g. Knowles series EB have the disadvantage that the directivity in the upper frequency range, which is important for speech intelligibility, deteriorates.
  • three spherical microphone capsules M1, M2, M3 (for example Knowles spherical microphones) are connected in the manner shown via amplifiers 1, 2 and 3 and a differentiator 4 with adjustable basic amplification to a totalizer 5.
  • the amplifier 2 is an inverting amplifier. For this reason, the microphone signal S2 derived from the microphone M2 via the amplifier 2 is shifted in phase by 180 ° compared to the microphone signal S1 derived from the microphone M1 via the amplifier 1. This becomes a pressure differential receiver modeled with dipole directivity.
  • the differentiator 4 works as a 90 ° phase shifter with adjustable basic gain.
  • a pronounced directional characteristic for example hypercardioid characteristic, can be set for the overall arrangement.
  • the microphones M1 to M3 thus receive sound that preferably comes in from the direction of the directional arrow 6.
  • the signal S A occurring at the output of the summing unit 5 reflects the sound received from the preferred direction.
  • the second exemplary embodiment in FIG. 2 works with only two spherical microphone capsules M1 and M2.
  • the third spherical microphone capsule M3 and the amplifier 3 are therefore missing.
  • the differentiator 4 is now connected directly to the output of the amplifier 1. While the first microphone signal S1 and the second microphone signal S2 are obtained in a manner corresponding to the arrangement in FIG. 1, the third microphone signal S3 is derived from the first microphone M1. With considerably simplified technical outlay, the same result is obtained as with the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 3 A preferred exemplary embodiment is shown in FIG. 3.
  • This exemplary embodiment comprises a first set of two spherical microphone capsules M1, M2 on the left side of the microphone arrangement and one second set of two spherical microphone capsules M1 'and M2' on the right side of the microphone arrangement.
  • the two spherical microphone capsules M1 'and M2' (e.g.
  • Knowles spherical microphones) on the right side of the microphone arrangement are corresponding to the spherical microphone capsules M1 and M2 on the left side of the microphone arrangement via amplifiers 1 'and 2' (inverting amplifiers) and a Differentiator 4 'with adjustable basic gain with a totalizer 5' connected.
  • the additive output signal is designated S A '.
  • the embodiment of FIG. 3 is preferably used in hearing aids for the hearing impaired, which is explained in more detail below in connection with the hearing glasses of FIG. 4.
  • the embodiment of FIG. 3 can of course also be constructed with three microphones on each side according to FIG. 1.
  • the sum generator 5 ' can consist of three adding stages, namely a first adding stage, which adds the signals S1 to S3, and a second adding stage, which adds the signals S1' to S3 ', and a third adding stage, which the output signals of the first and the second adder added.
  • amplifiers 1 and 3 can also be inverting in all exemplary embodiments, while amplifier 2 is a non-inverting amplifier.
  • the inverting amplifier 2 can also be composed of a non-inverting amplifier and an inverting element.
  • FIG. 4 shows the application of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 3 in a hearing device in the form of hearing glasses 10.
  • the hearing glasses 10 comprises an eyeglass frame 11 with the eyeglass lenses 12 and 13 as well as a left eyeglass temple 14 and a right eyeglass temple 15. Both spectacle arms are hinged to the eyeglass frame 11 by means of hinges 16 and 17.
  • the spherical microphone pair M1, M2 is arranged in the left temple near the hinge 16. Accordingly, the second pair of spherical microphones M1 ', M2' is arranged in the right temple 15 near the hinge 17.
  • the two microphones of each microphone pair lie one behind the other in the direction of the bracket.
  • the components 1, 2, 1 ', 2', 4, 4 ', 5' embedded in the block 18 shown in dashed lines in FIG. 3 are divided into two circuit electronics blocks 19 and 20 in the embodiment in FIG.
  • the two circuit electronics blocks 19 and 20 are connected to one another via the connecting lines 21, which are passed through the temple and the spectacle frame 11 (not shown in FIG. 4), or some other type of cable guide.
  • the adder 23 is via a signal line 26 also the microphone signal filtered in a low-pass filter 27 is fed to a further spherical microphone capsule MO1. Accordingly, the adder 25 in the second temple piece 15 receives the signal of a spherical microphone capsule MO2 via the signal line 28 with a low-pass filter 29.
  • the adder 23 is connected on the output side via a signal line 30 to the input of an amplifier 31 the. Accordingly, the adder 25 is coupled to the input of an amplifier 33 via a signal line 32.
  • the receiver 34 for the left ear canal of a hearing impaired person is located at the output of the amplifier 31. Accordingly, the receiver 35 for the right ear canal of the hearing impaired person is located at the output of the amplifier 33.
  • the earphones are usually connected to the ear canals via hose connections and ear tips (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 4, the hose connection on the left is indicated by 36 and the hose connection on the right by 37. However, versions are also possible in which the listener is located in the ear canal, as is usually the case with in-the-ear hearing aids.
  • Components 38 and 39 are each a battery for power supply via supply lines 40 and 41.
  • the two microphones MO1 and MO2 serve as location microphones.
  • the microphone MO1 When the hearing glasses are on, the microphone MO1 is directly above the left ear and the microphone MO2 is above the right ear of the hearing impaired.
  • the location microphones can also be accommodated in the respective auricle.
  • the hearing impaired can locate a sound source of interest via the two location microphones MO1 and MO2 and can turn his head with the hearing glasses in the direction of this sound source. When the head is directed towards the sound source, the directional microphone arrangement according to the present invention can then fully develop its effect.
  • FIG. 5 shows the previously mentioned, but less advantageous alternative solution to FIG. 3 for hearing aids with subminiature directional microphones MR1 and MR2 and adder 49.
  • the distance D between the microphones MR1, MR2 corresponds approximately to the head width of the hearing impaired.
  • all components, including the microphones are accommodated in the temple pieces.
  • these components can also be combined in assemblies that can be plugged into the brackets so that they are actually outside the brackets.
  • a kind of headband can be used to hold the microphones M1, M2 and M1 'and M2'.
  • FIG. 6 An embodiment according to which a directional microphone arrangement e.g. 2 as a separate component 42 can be attached to the temple 43 of normal glasses, is shown in FIG.
  • For attachment e.g. Brackets, Velcro fasteners, adhesives, pins or the like are used.
  • the fasteners are generally indicated at 44.
  • Elements 45 and 46 are a battery and a switch.
  • the output cable 47 comprises a plug 48 which is connected to an audio input of a conventional hearing aid, e.g. HDO device to be connected.

Abstract

A directional microphone arrangement has a number of discrete microphones each having an electrical output and elements for deriving first and second electrical signals which are 180 DEG out of phase with respect to each other from the outputs of the microphones. A third signal is also derived through differentiation from one of the microphone outputs which is 90 DEG out of phase with respect to one of the first or second signals. All of the first, second and third signals are added in a summing unit, the output of the summing unit forming the output for the arrangement.

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Richtmikrofonanord­nung gemäß Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to a directional microphone arrangement according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

Eine solche Mikrofonanordnung ist beispielsweise in Ver­bindung mit einem Zoom-Mikrofon aus der US-PS 43 99 327, US-PS 44 12 097 oder dem Aufsatz "Zoom-Mikrofon" aus der Zeitschrift "Funkschau" 1980, Heft 19, Seiten 79/80 vor­bekannt. Diese bekannten Richtmikrofonanordnungen umfas­sen jeweils immer wenigstens drei Einzelmikrofone, die ihrer Ausbildung nach bereits schon Richtwirkung (Nieren­charakteristik) aufweisen. Solche Mikrofone sind relativ sperrig, komplex und teuer. Die bereits gerichteten Ein­zelmikrofone sind auch so angeordnet, daß jeweils immer zwei Mikrofone in Richtung auf die Schallquelle ausge­richtet sind, während ein drittes Mikrofon von der Schallquelle wegweist. Die drei bereits gerichteten Mikrofone sind miteinander über Potentiometer additiv und/oder subtraktiv verbunden. Mit Hilfe der Potentio­meter kann die Signalspannung des von der Schallquelle weggerichteten Einzelmikrofons auf Null gesteuert wer­den. Ein 180°-Phasenschieber versetzt außerdem die aus den Seitenrichtungen einfallenden Schallsignale um 180° gegeneinander, so daß diese in der Addierstufe ausge­löscht werden. Richtwirkung tritt jetzt nur noch nach vorne, d.h. in Richtung auf die Schallquelle, auf.Such a microphone arrangement is, for example, in connection with a zoom microphone from US Pat. No. 4,399,327, US Pat. No. 4,412,097 or the article "Zoom Microphone" from the magazine "Funkschau" 1980, No. 19, pages 79/80 previously known. These known directional microphone arrangements always include at least three individual microphones, which according to their design already have directional effect (cardioid characteristic). Such microphones are relatively bulky, complex and expensive. The already directed individual microphones are also arranged such that two microphones are always aligned in the direction of the sound source, while a third microphone points away from the sound source. The three already directed microphones are additively and / or subtractively connected to one another via potentiometers. With the help of the potentiometer, the signal voltage of the single microphone directed away from the sound source can be controlled to zero. A 180 ° phase shifter also shifts the sound signals incident from the lateral directions by 180 ° against each other, so that they are canceled out in the adding stage. Directionality now only comes forward, i.e. towards the sound source.

Durch die DE-OS 22 36 968 ist auch noch eine Richtmikro­fonanordnung für ein Hörgerät vorbekant, die wenigstens zwei Sätze von wenigstens je zwei Mikrofonen umfaßt, von denen der eine Satz am distalen Ende des einen Brillen­bügels und der zweite Satz am distalen Ende des zweiten Brillenbügels einer Hörbrille angeordnet sind. Die Mikro­fone innerhalb eines Satzes stehen mit ihren Haupt­empfangsrichtungen senkrecht aufeinander. Auch hier wer­den also Mikrofone eingesetzt, die bereits vorab gerich­tet sind. Die bereits gerichteten Einzelmikrofone sind über Gewichtungsglieder additiv und/oder subtraktiv mit­einander verbunden. Die Gewichtungsglieder gewichten die von vorne und von den Seiten einfallenden Schallsignale unterschiedlich in der Weise, daß der Einfluß der von den Seiten einfallenden Schallsignale gegenüber den von vorne einfallenden Schallsignalen auf ein Minimum herab­gesetzt wird. Somit tritt Richtwirkung nach vorne auf.DE-OS 22 36 968 also discloses a directional microphone arrangement for a hearing aid, which comprises at least two sets of at least two microphones each which the one set are arranged at the distal end of one eyeglass temple and the second set at the distal end of the second eyeglass temple of hearing glasses. The main receiving directions of the microphones within a set are perpendicular to each other. Here, too, microphones are used that are already directed in advance. The already directed individual microphones are additively and / or subtractively connected to one another via weighting elements. The weighting elements weight the sound signals coming in from the front and from the sides differently in such a way that the influence of the sound signals coming in from the sides is minimized compared to the sound signals coming in from the front. Thus there is a directivity towards the front.

Durch die FR-OS 24 36 416 (die z.B. der US-PS 4,334,740 oder DE-OS 2,936,082 entspricht) ist schließlich noch eine Richtmikrofonanordnung dieser Art für Kameras vor­bekannt, die mit Integrierern arbeitet, deren Übertra­gungsmaß aber zu hohen Frequenzen hin abklingt, so daß zur Rekonstruktion höherer Frequenzen zusätzliche Tiefpaß- und Hochpaßfilter (z.B. Figuren 18 und 19 bzw. auch Seite 4, 2. Absatz bis Seite 5, 1. Absatz der FR-OS bzw. Figuren 18 und 19 sowie Spalte 3 der korres­pondierenden US-PS) erforderlich sind.Finally, FR-OS 24 36 416 (which corresponds, for example, to US Pat. No. 4,334,740 or DE-OS 2,936,082) also discloses a directional microphone arrangement of this type for cameras which works with integrators, but whose transmission rate decays to high frequencies, so that Additional low-pass and high-pass filters for the reconstruction of higher frequencies (e.g. FIGS. 18 and 19 or also page 4, 2nd paragraph to page 5, 1st paragraph of FR-OS or FIGS. 18 and 19 and column 3 of the corresponding US-PS) required are.

Aufgabe vorliegender Erfindung ist es, eine Richtmikro­fonanordnung der eingangs genannten Art insbesondere für Hörgeräte aufzubauen, die optimal einfach ist und insbe­sondere mit nicht gerichteten Einzelmikrofonen, z.B. Ku­gelmikrofonen, ausgerüstet ist.The object of the present invention is to build a directional microphone arrangement of the type mentioned at the outset, in particular for hearing aids, which is optimally simple and in particular with non-directional individual microphones, e.g. Omnidirectional microphones.

Die Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß mit den kennzeichnenden Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1 gelöst.The object is achieved with the characterizing features of claim 1.

Die Erfindung erlaubt den Einsatz nicht gerichteter Mikrofone, insbesondere Kugelmikrofone, zusammen mit einem Differenzierglied, das zu hohen Frequenzen hin ein ansteigendes Übertragungsmaß aufweist. Diese Richtmikro­fonanordnung benötigt keine weiteren Filter. Sie ist demnach technisch besonders einfach, billig und insbesondere für die Versorgung von Schwerhörigen, bei denen die höheren Frequenzen für die Sprachverständlich­keit besonders wichtig sind, geeignet.The invention allows the use of non-directional microphones, in particular omnidirectional microphones, together with a differentiating element that has an increasing transmission factor towards high frequencies. This directional microphone arrangement does not require any further filters. It is therefore technically particularly simple, cheap and particularly suitable for the care of the hearing impaired, for whom the higher frequencies are particularly important for speech intelligibility.

Eine besonders scharfe Richtwirkung erhält man mit einer Richtmikrofonanordnung, die gemäß den Merkmalen des Pa­tentanspruchs 5 ausgestaltet ist. In diesem Falle werden zwei Hypernierensignale addiert, so daß die Gesamtricht­wirkung noch schärfer wird.A particularly sharp directional effect is obtained with a directional microphone arrangement which is designed in accordance with the features of patent claim 5. In this case, two hypercardioid signals are added, so that the overall directivity becomes even sharper.

Die Erfindung wird also bevorzugt in Verbindung mit Hör­geräten für Hörgeschädigte eingesetzt. Bevorzugte Ausge­staltungen ergeben sich aus den Patentansprüchen 8 bis 18.The invention is therefore preferably used in connection with hearing aids for the hearing impaired. Preferred embodiments result from claims 8 to 18.

Im Prinzip kann die Richtmikrofonanordnung des Patentan­spruchs 5 in Verbindung mit Hörgeräten auch gemäß An­spruch 13 durch eine schaltungstechnisch besonders ein­fache Anordnung aus wenigstens zwei bereits gerichteten Subminiatur-Einzelmikrofonen und einem Summierglied er­setzt werden. Derzeit erhältliche, bereits gerichtete Subminiatur-Einzelmikrofone, wie z.B. Knowles Baureihe EB, haben allerdings den Nachteil, daß die Richtwirkung im für die Sprachverständlichkeit wichtigen oberen Fre­quenzbereich schlechter wird.In principle, the directional microphone arrangement of claim 5 in conjunction with hearing aids can also be replaced according to claim 13 by an arrangement which is particularly simple in terms of circuitry, comprising at least two subminiature individual microphones already directed and a summing element. Already available subminiature single microphones, e.g. Knowles series EB, however, have the disadvantage that the directivity in the upper frequency range, which is important for speech intelligibility, deteriorates.

Die Lösung des Anspruchs 5 ist also der Lösung des An­spruchs 13 in der Wirkung überlegen.The solution of claim 5 is thus superior to the solution of claim 13.

Weitere Vorteile und Einzelheiten der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungs­beispielen anhand der Zeichnung und in Verbindung mit den Unteransprüchen.Further advantages and details of the invention emerge from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing and in conjunction with the subclaims.

Es zeigen:

  • Figur 1 ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel einer Mikrofonan­ordnung gemäß der Erfindung mit drei Mikrofonen,
  • Figur 2 ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel einer Richtmikro­fonanordnung gemäß der Erfindung mit zwei Mikrofonen,
  • Figur 3 eine Richtmikrofonanordnung gemäß der Erfindung mit zwei symmetrisch zueinander angeordneten Sätzen aus je zwei Mikrofonen,
  • Figur 4 das Ausführungsbeispiel der Figur 3 bei Anord­nung als Teil eines Hörgerätes in einer Hörbrille,
  • Figur 5 eine Alternativlösung zu Figur 3 für Hörge­räte mit Subminiatur-Einzelrichtmikrofonen und
  • Figur 6 eine Ausführungsform von Figur 1 oder 2 für bereits vorhandene Hörgeräte.
Show it:
  • FIG. 1 shows a first exemplary embodiment of a microphone arrangement according to the invention with three microphones,
  • FIG. 2 shows a second exemplary embodiment of a directional microphone arrangement according to the invention with two microphones,
  • 3 shows a directional microphone arrangement according to the invention with two sets of two microphones arranged symmetrically to one another,
  • FIG. 4 shows the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3 when it is arranged as part of a hearing device in hearing glasses,
  • Figure 5 shows an alternative solution to Figure 3 for hearing aids with subminiature single directional microphones and
  • Figure 6 shows an embodiment of Figure 1 or 2 for existing hearing aids.

In der Figur 1 sind drei Kugelmikrofon-Kapseln M1, M2, M3 (beispielsweise Knowles-Kugelmikrofone) in der darge­stellten Weise über Verstärker 1, 2 und 3 sowie ein Dif­ferenzierglied 4 mit einstellbarer Grundverstärkung mit einem Summenbildner 5 verbunden. Der Verstärker 2 ist ein invertierender Verstärker. Aus diesem Grunde ist das vom Mikrofon M2 über den Verstärker 2 abgeleitete Mikrofon­signal S2 gegenüber dem vom Mikrofon M1 über den Verstär­ker 1 abgeleiteten Mikrofonsignal S1 um 180° in der Phase verschoben. Damit wird ein Druckdifferenzempfänger mit Dipolrichtcharakteristik nachgebildet. Das Differen­zierglied 4 arbeitet als 90°-Phasenschieber mit einstell­barer Grundverstärkung. Durch die Überlagerung des Aus­gangssignals S3 des Differenziergliedes 4 mit den Signa­len S1 und S2 läßt sich bei geeigneter Wahl der Grund­verstärkung des Differenziergliedes eine ausgeprägte Richtcharakteristik, z.B. Hypernierencharakteristik, für die Gesamtanordnung einstellen.In FIG. 1, three spherical microphone capsules M1, M2, M3 (for example Knowles spherical microphones) are connected in the manner shown via amplifiers 1, 2 and 3 and a differentiator 4 with adjustable basic amplification to a totalizer 5. The amplifier 2 is an inverting amplifier. For this reason, the microphone signal S2 derived from the microphone M2 via the amplifier 2 is shifted in phase by 180 ° compared to the microphone signal S1 derived from the microphone M1 via the amplifier 1. This becomes a pressure differential receiver modeled with dipole directivity. The differentiator 4 works as a 90 ° phase shifter with adjustable basic gain. By superimposing the output signal S3 of the differentiating element 4 with the signals S1 and S2, with a suitable choice of the basic amplification of the differentiating element, a pronounced directional characteristic, for example hypercardioid characteristic, can be set for the overall arrangement.

Die Mikrofone M1 bis M3 epfangen also Schall, der bevor­zugt aus der Richtung des Richtungspfeiles 6 einfällt. Das am Ausgang des Summenbildners 5 anfallende Signal SA spiegelt den aus der bevorzugten Richtung empfangenen Schall wieder.The microphones M1 to M3 thus receive sound that preferably comes in from the direction of the directional arrow 6. The signal S A occurring at the output of the summing unit 5 reflects the sound received from the preferred direction.

Das zweite Ausführungsbeispiel der Figur 2 arbeitet mit nur zwei Kugelmikrofon-Kapseln M1 und M2. Im Vergleich mit dem Ausführungsbeispiel der Figur 1 fehlen also die dritte Kugelmikrofon-Kapsel M3 und der Verstärker 3. Das Differenzierglied 4 ist jetzt direkt am Ausgang des Ver­stärkers 1 angeschaltet. Während das erste Mikrofonsig­nal S1 und das zweite Mikrofonsignal S2 in einer der An­ordnung der Figur 1 entsprechenden Weise gewonnen wer­den, wird das dritte Mikrofonsignal S3 vom ersten Mikro­fon M1 abgeleitet. Mit erheblich vereinfachtem techni­schem Aufwand ergibt sich dasselbe Ergebnis wie mit dem Ausführungsbeispiel der Figur 1.The second exemplary embodiment in FIG. 2 works with only two spherical microphone capsules M1 and M2. In comparison with the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1, the third spherical microphone capsule M3 and the amplifier 3 are therefore missing. The differentiator 4 is now connected directly to the output of the amplifier 1. While the first microphone signal S1 and the second microphone signal S2 are obtained in a manner corresponding to the arrangement in FIG. 1, the third microphone signal S3 is derived from the first microphone M1. With considerably simplified technical outlay, the same result is obtained as with the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 1.

Eine noch schärfere Richtcharakteristik erhält man, wenn man zwei unabhängig voneinander durch Richtmikrofonan­ordnungen gemäß der Figuren 1 oder 2 erzeugte Hypernie­rensignale addiert. Ein bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel zeigt die Figur 3. Dieses Ausführungsbeispiel umfaßt einen ersten Satz aus zwei Kugelmikrofon-Kapseln M1, M2 auf der linken Seite der Mikrofonanordnung und einen zweiten Satz aus zwei Kugelmikrofon-Kapseln M1′ und M2′ auf der rechten Seite der Mikrofonanordnung. Die beiden Kugelmikrofon-Kapseln M1′ und M2′ (z.B. Knowles-Kugel­mikrofone) auf der rechten Seite der Mikrofonanordnung sind entsprechend den Kugelmikrofon-Kapseln M1 und M2 auf der linken Seite der Mikrofonanordnung über Verstär­ker 1′ und 2′ (invertierende Verstärker) sowie ein Dif­ferenzierglied 4′ mit einstellbarer Grundverstärkung mit einem Summenbildner 5′ verbunden. Das additive Ausgangs­signal ist mit SA′ bezeichnet. Die Ausführungsform der Figur 3 wird bevorzugt in Hörgeräten für Hörgeschädigte eingesetzt, was weiter unten in Verbindung mit der Hörbrille der Figur 4 noch näher erläutert wird.An even sharper directional characteristic is obtained if two hypercardioid signals generated independently of one another by directional microphone arrangements according to FIGS. 1 or 2 are added. A preferred exemplary embodiment is shown in FIG. 3. This exemplary embodiment comprises a first set of two spherical microphone capsules M1, M2 on the left side of the microphone arrangement and one second set of two spherical microphone capsules M1 'and M2' on the right side of the microphone arrangement. The two spherical microphone capsules M1 'and M2' (e.g. Knowles spherical microphones) on the right side of the microphone arrangement are corresponding to the spherical microphone capsules M1 and M2 on the left side of the microphone arrangement via amplifiers 1 'and 2' (inverting amplifiers) and a Differentiator 4 'with adjustable basic gain with a totalizer 5' connected. The additive output signal is designated S A '. The embodiment of FIG. 3 is preferably used in hearing aids for the hearing impaired, which is explained in more detail below in connection with the hearing glasses of FIG. 4.

Das Ausführungsbeispiel der Figur 3 kann selbstverständ­lich auch mit drei Mikrofonen auf jeder Seite entspre­chend Figur 1 aufgebaut werden. Der Summenbildner 5′ kann aus drei Addierstufen bestehen, nämlich einer ersten Addierstufe, die die Signale S1 bis S3 addiert, und einer zweiten Addierstufe, die die Signale S1′ bis S3′ addiert, sowie einer dritten Addierstufe, die die Ausgangssignale der ersten und der zweiten Addierstufe addiert. Vom Prinzip her können in sämtlichen Ausfüh­rungsbeispielen auch die Verstärker 1 bzw. 3 invertierend ausgebildet sein, während der Verstärker 2 ein nicht in­vertierender Verstärker ist. Der invertierende Ver­stärker 2 kann ferner aus einem nicht invertierenden Verstärker und einem Invertierglied zusammengesetzt sein. Eine weitere Möglichkeit ist, daß der Verstärker 2 nicht invertierend ist und der Summenbildner 5 bzw. 5′ einen invertierenden Eingang (oder Subtrahiereingang) für das Mikrofonsignal S2 umfaßt. Die Figur 4 zeigt die Anwendung des Ausführungsbeispiels der Figur 3 in einem Hörgerät in Form einer Hörbrille 10. Die Hörbrille 10 umfaßt eine Brillenfassung 11 mit den Brillengläsern 12 und 13 sowie einem linken Brillenbügel 14 und einem rechten Brillenbügel 15. Beide Brillenbügel sind mittels Scharniere 16 und 17 an der Brillenfassung 11 angelenkt. Das Kugelmikrofon-Paar M1, M2 ist im linken Brillenbü­gel in der Nähe des Scharniers 16 angeordnet. Entspre­chend ist das zweite Kugelmikrofon-Paar M1′, M2′ im rechten Brillenbügel 15 in der Nähe des Scharniers 17 angeordnet. Die beiden Mikrofone eines jeden Mikrofon-­Paares liegen in Richtung des Bügels hintereinander. Der Abstand zwischen den Mikrofonen liegt im Bereich d = 3 - 7, vorzugsweise 5 mm. Die gemäß der Figur 3 im ge­strichelt dargestellten Block 18 eingebetteten Bauele­mente 1, 2, 1′, 2′, 4, 4′, 5′ sind in der Ausführungs­form der Figur 4 auf zwei Schaltungselektronikblöcke 19 und 20 aufgeteilt.The embodiment of FIG. 3 can of course also be constructed with three microphones on each side according to FIG. 1. The sum generator 5 'can consist of three adding stages, namely a first adding stage, which adds the signals S1 to S3, and a second adding stage, which adds the signals S1' to S3 ', and a third adding stage, which the output signals of the first and the second adder added. In principle, amplifiers 1 and 3 can also be inverting in all exemplary embodiments, while amplifier 2 is a non-inverting amplifier. The inverting amplifier 2 can also be composed of a non-inverting amplifier and an inverting element. Another possibility is that the amplifier 2 is not inverting and the sum generator 5 or 5 'comprises an inverting input (or subtracting input) for the microphone signal S2. FIG. 4 shows the application of the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 3 in a hearing device in the form of hearing glasses 10. The hearing glasses 10 comprises an eyeglass frame 11 with the eyeglass lenses 12 and 13 as well as a left eyeglass temple 14 and a right eyeglass temple 15. Both spectacle arms are hinged to the eyeglass frame 11 by means of hinges 16 and 17. The spherical microphone pair M1, M2 is arranged in the left temple near the hinge 16. Accordingly, the second pair of spherical microphones M1 ', M2' is arranged in the right temple 15 near the hinge 17. The two microphones of each microphone pair lie one behind the other in the direction of the bracket. The distance between the microphones is in the range d = 3-7, preferably 5 mm. The components 1, 2, 1 ', 2', 4, 4 ', 5' embedded in the block 18 shown in dashed lines in FIG. 3 are divided into two circuit electronics blocks 19 and 20 in the embodiment in FIG.

Die beiden Schaltungselektronikblöcke 19 und 20 sind über die Verbindungsleitungen 21, die durch die Brillen­bügel und die Brillenfassung 11 hindurchgeführt sind (in Figur 4 nicht dargestellt), oder eine andersartige Kabel­führung miteinander verbunden. Die Ausgangssignalleitung für das Signal SA′ führt im Brillenbügel 14 über eine erste Zweigleitung 22 zu einem Addierglied 23. Entspre­chend führt im anderen Brillenbügel 15 das Signal SA′ über eine weitere Zweigleitung 24 zu einem Addierglied 25. Dem Addierglied 23 wird über eine Signalleitung 26 auch noch das in einem Tiefpaß 27 gefilterte Mikrofon­signal einer weiteren Kugelmikrofon-Kapsel MO1 zugelei­tet. Entsprechend empfängt das Addierglied 25 im zweiten Brillenbügel 15 über die Signalleitung 28 mit einem Tiefpaß 29 das Signal einer Kugelmikrofon-Kapsel MO2. Das Addierglied 23 ist ausgangsseitig über eine Signal­leitung 30 mit dem Eingang eines Verstärkers 31 verbun­ den. Entsprechend ist das Addierglied 25 über eine Signalleitung 32 mit dem Eingang eines Verstärkers 33 gekoppelt. Am Ausgang des Verstärkers 31 liegt der Hörer 34 für den linken Ohrkanal eines Hörgeschädigten. Ent­sprechend liegt am Ausgang des Verstärkers 33 der Hörer 35 für den rechten Ohrkanal des Hörgeschädigten. Die Hörer werden üblicherweise über Schlauchanschlüsse und Ohroliven (nicht dargestellt) mit den Ohrkanälen ver­bunden. Im Ausführungsbeispiel der Figur 4 ist der linksseitige Schlauchanschluß mit 36 und der rechts­seitige Schlauchanschluß mit 37 angedeutet. Es sind aber auch Ausführungen möglich, bei denen sich der Hörer je­weils im Ohrkanal befindet, wie dies bei Im-Ohr-Hörge­räten üblicherweise der Fall ist. Die Bauelemente 38 und 39 sind je eine Batterie zur Stromversorgung über Ver­sorgungsleitungen 40 und 41.The two circuit electronics blocks 19 and 20 are connected to one another via the connecting lines 21, which are passed through the temple and the spectacle frame 11 (not shown in FIG. 4), or some other type of cable guide. The output signal line for the signal S A 'leads in the temple 14 via a first branch line 22 to an adder 23. Accordingly, in the other temple 15, the signal S A ' leads via an additional branch 24 to an adder 25. The adder 23 is via a signal line 26 also the microphone signal filtered in a low-pass filter 27 is fed to a further spherical microphone capsule MO1. Accordingly, the adder 25 in the second temple piece 15 receives the signal of a spherical microphone capsule MO2 via the signal line 28 with a low-pass filter 29. The adder 23 is connected on the output side via a signal line 30 to the input of an amplifier 31 the. Accordingly, the adder 25 is coupled to the input of an amplifier 33 via a signal line 32. The receiver 34 for the left ear canal of a hearing impaired person is located at the output of the amplifier 31. Accordingly, the receiver 35 for the right ear canal of the hearing impaired person is located at the output of the amplifier 33. The earphones are usually connected to the ear canals via hose connections and ear tips (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 4, the hose connection on the left is indicated by 36 and the hose connection on the right by 37. However, versions are also possible in which the listener is located in the ear canal, as is usually the case with in-the-ear hearing aids. Components 38 and 39 are each a battery for power supply via supply lines 40 and 41.

Die beiden Mikrofone MO1 und MO2 dienen als Ortungs­mikrofone. Bei aufgesetzter Hörbrille liegt das Mikro­fon MO1 direkt über dem linken Ohr und das Mikrofon MO2 über dem rechten Ohr des Hörgeschädigten. Die Ortungs­mikrofone können aber durchaus auch in der jeweiligen Ohrmuschel untergebracht sein. Der Hörgeschädigte kann über die beiden Ortungsmikrofone MO1 und MO2 eine inte­ressierende Schallquelle orten und den Kopf mit der Hör­brille in Richtung dieser Schallquelle drehen. Bei auf die Schallquelle gerichtetem Kopf kann dann die Richt­mikrofonanordnung gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung ihre Wirkung voll entfalten.The two microphones MO1 and MO2 serve as location microphones. When the hearing glasses are on, the microphone MO1 is directly above the left ear and the microphone MO2 is above the right ear of the hearing impaired. However, the location microphones can also be accommodated in the respective auricle. The hearing impaired can locate a sound source of interest via the two location microphones MO1 and MO2 and can turn his head with the hearing glasses in the direction of this sound source. When the head is directed towards the sound source, the directional microphone arrangement according to the present invention can then fully develop its effect.

Die Figur 5 zeigt die schon vorher erwähnte, jedoch weniger vorteilhafte Alternativlösung zu Figur 3 bei Hörgeräten mit Subminiatur-Richtmikrofonen MR1 und MR2 sowie Addierglied 49. Der Abstand D zwischen den Mikro- fonen MR1, MR2 entspricht wie in Figur 4 etwa der Kopf­ breite des Hörgeschädigten. Im Ausführungsbeispiel der Figur 4 sind sämtliche Bauelemente einschließlich der Mikrofone in den Brillenbügeln untergebracht. Selbstver­ständlich können diese Bauelemente auch in Baugruppen zusammengefaßt werden, die an den Bügeln ansteckbar sind, so daß sie sich tatsächlich außerhalb der Bügel befinden. Anstelle einer Brille kann auch eine Art Kopf­bügel zum Halten der Mikrofone M1, M2 und M1′ sowie M2′ verwendet werden.FIG. 5 shows the previously mentioned, but less advantageous alternative solution to FIG. 3 for hearing aids with subminiature directional microphones MR1 and MR2 and adder 49. As in FIG. 4, the distance D between the microphones MR1, MR2 corresponds approximately to the head width of the hearing impaired. In the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 4, all components, including the microphones, are accommodated in the temple pieces. Of course, these components can also be combined in assemblies that can be plugged into the brackets so that they are actually outside the brackets. Instead of glasses, a kind of headband can be used to hold the microphones M1, M2 and M1 'and M2'.

Ein Ausführungsbeispiel, wonach eine Richtmikrofonanord­nung z.B. gemäß Figur 2 als getrenntes Bauteil 42 am Brillenbügel 43 einer normalen Brille befestigbar ist, ist in der Figur 6 dargestellt. Zur Befestigung können z.B. Klammern, Klettverschlüsse, Klebstoffe, Ansteck­stifte oder dergleichen dienen. In Figur 6 sind die Be­festigungsmittel ganz allgemein mit 44 angedeutet. Die Elemente 45 und 46 sind eine Batterie und ein Schalter. Das Ausgangskabel 47 umfaßt einen Stecker 48, der an ei­nem Audioeingang eines konventionellen Hörgerätes, z.B. HDO-Gerätes, anzuschließen ist.An embodiment according to which a directional microphone arrangement e.g. 2 as a separate component 42 can be attached to the temple 43 of normal glasses, is shown in FIG. For attachment, e.g. Brackets, Velcro fasteners, adhesives, pins or the like are used. In Figure 6, the fasteners are generally indicated at 44. Elements 45 and 46 are a battery and a switch. The output cable 47 comprises a plug 48 which is connected to an audio input of a conventional hearing aid, e.g. HDO device to be connected.

Claims (18)

1. Richtmikrofonanordnung mit einer vorgebbaren Zahl von Einzelmikrofonen, die unter Verwendung einer Phasenschie­beranordnung additiv und/oder subtraktiv miteinander verbunden sind, dadurch gekennzeich­net, daß von wenigstens zwei nicht gerichteten Mikro­fonen (M1, M2) drei elektrische Mikrofonsignale (S1, S2, S3) ableitbar sind, von denen zwei Signale (S1, S2) ge­geneinander um 180° phasenverschoben sind und das dritte Signal (S3) gegenüber einem der beiden anderen Signale mittels eines Differenziergliedes (4) um 90° in der Phase gedreht ist und daß ein Summenbildner (5 bzw. 8, 9) für die drei Mikrofonsignale vorhanden ist.1. directional microphone arrangement with a predeterminable number of individual microphones which are additively and / or subtractively connected to one another using a phase shifter arrangement, characterized in that three electrical microphone signals (S1, S2, S3) can be derived from at least two non-directional microphones (M1, M2) of which two signals (S1, S2) are phase-shifted from each other by 180 ° and the third signal (S3) is rotated by 90 ° in phase with respect to one of the other two signals by means of a differentiating element (4) and or 8, 9) for the three microphone signals. 2. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 1, da­durch gekennzeichnet, daß das erste Mikrofonsignal (S1) von einem ersten Mikrofon (M1) über einen nicht invertierenden Verstärker (1) und das zweite Mikrofonsignal (S2) von einem zweiten Mikrofon (M2) über einen invertierenden Verstärker (2) abgeleitet werden, so daß beide Signale gegeneinander um 180° phasenver­schoben sind.,2. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the first microphone signal (S1) from a first microphone (M1) via a non-inverting amplifier (1) and the second microphone signal (S2) from a second microphone (M2) via an inverting amplifier (2) are derived so that both signals are 180 ° out of phase with each other. 3. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 2, da­durch gekennzeichnet, daß das dritte Mikrofonsignal (S3) von einem dritten Mikrofon (M3), das z.B. zwischen dem ersten Mikrofon (M1) und dem zweiten Mikrofon (M2) angeordnet ist, über einen nicht invertie­renden Verstärker (3) mit nachgeschaltetem Differenzier­glied (4), das in der Grundverstärkung einstellbar ist, abgeleitet wird.3. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the third microphone signal (S3) from a third microphone (M3), which is arranged for example between the first microphone (M1) and the second microphone (M2), via a non-inverting amplifier ( 3) is derived with a downstream differentiating element (4), which can be adjusted in the basic gain. 4. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 2, da­durch gekennzeichnet, daß das dritte Mikrofonsignal (S3) durch Differenzierung des ersten Mikrofonsignals (S1) in einem Differenzierglied (4) mit einstellbarer Grundverstärkung abgeleitet wird.4. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 2, characterized in that the third Microphone signal (S3) is derived by differentiating the first microphone signal (S1) in a differentiator (4) with adjustable basic gain. 5. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß wenigstens zwei Sätze von wenigstens je zwei Mikrofonen (M1, M2; M1′, M2′) einander diametral gegenüberliegend angeordnet sind und daß von jedem Satz Mikrofone je drei elektrische Signale (S1, S2, S3 bzw. S1′, S2′, S3′) ab­leitbar sind, von denen je zwei Signale (S1, S2 bzw. S1′, S2′) entgegengesetzte Phasenlage haben und das dritte Signal (S3 bzw. S3′) gegenüber den anderen Sig­nalen mittels je eines Differenziergliedes (4 bzw. 4′) um 90° in der Phase gedreht ist und daß ein Summenbild­ner (5′) für die sechs Mikrofonsignale aus den beiden Mikrofonsätzen vorhanden ist.5. directional microphone arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least two sets of at least two microphones (M1, M2; M1 ', M2') are arranged diametrically opposite each other and that each set of microphones each have three electrical signals ( S1, S2, S3 or S1 ′, S2 ′, S3 ′) can be derived, of which two signals (S1, S2 or S1 ′, S2 ′) have opposite phases and the third signal (S3 or S3 ′) Compared to the other signals by means of a differentiator (4 or 4 ') is rotated by 90 ° in phase and that a totalizer (5') is available for the six microphone signals from the two microphone sets. 6. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Einzelmikrofone (M1, M2 oder M3 bzw. M1′, M2′) Kugelmikrofone sind.6. directional microphone arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the individual microphones (M1, M2 or M3 or M1 ', M2') are spherical microphones. 7. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 6, da­durch gekennzeichnet, daß die Kugel­mikrofone Subminiatur-Kugelmikrofone sind.7. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the spherical microphones are subminiature spherical microphones. 8. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß zum Einsatz in einem Hörgerät die Einzelmikrofone (M1, M2 bzw. M1′, M2′) an einem Gestell (10) angeordnet sind, das ein Hörgeschädigter am Kopf tragen kann.8. directional microphone arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that for use in a hearing aid, the individual microphones (M1, M2 or M1 ', M2') are arranged on a frame (10) which a hearing impaired person can wear on the head . 9. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach den Ansprüchen 5 und 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Gestell (10) eine Brille ist und daß der erste Satz aus wenigstens zwei Einzelmikrofonen (M1, M2) im oder am ersten Brillenbügel (14) und der zweite Satz aus wenig­stens zwei Einzelmikrofonen (M1′, M2′) im oder am zwei­ten Brillenbügel (15) plaziert ist.9. directional microphone arrangement according to claims 5 and 8, characterized in that the Frame (10) is glasses and that the first set of at least two individual microphones (M1, M2) in or on the first temple (14) and the second set of at least two individual microphones (M1 ', M2') in or on the second temple ( 15) is placed. 10. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 9, da­durch gekennzeichnet, daß die Einzelmikrofone eines jeden Satzes in oder an den Brillenbügeln (14, 15) hintereinander angeordnet sind.10. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that the individual microphones of each set in or on the temple pieces (14, 15) are arranged one behind the other. 11. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 9 oder 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Einzelmikrofone eines jeden Satzes an den distalen Enden der Brillenbügel (14, 15) in der Nähe der Brillenschar­niere (16, 17) angeordnet sind.11. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the individual microphones of each set are arranged at the distal ends of the temple (14, 15) in the vicinity of the hinges (16, 17). 12. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 10 oder 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Einzelmikrofone eines jeden Satzes in einem Abstand im Bereich von 3 bis 7 mm vorzugsweise 5 mm, voneinan­der entfernt angeordnet sind.12. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the individual microphones of each set are arranged at a distance in the range of 3 to 7 mm, preferably 5 mm, apart. 13. Richtmikrofonanordnung mit einer vorgebbaren Zahl von bereits gerichteten Einzelmikrofonen, die additiv miteinander verbunden sind, dadurch ge­kennzeichnet, daß von wenigstens zwei Sub­miniatur-Einzelmikrofonen (MR1, MR2) eines auf der linken und eines auf der rechten Seite eines am Kopf eines Hörgeschädigten getragenen Gestells, z.B. Brille, angeordnet und mittels Addierglied (49) miteinander ver­bunden sind.13. directional microphone arrangement with a predeterminable number of already directed individual microphones, which are additively connected to one another, characterized in that at least two subminiature individual microphones (MR1, MR2) one on the left and one on the right side of a frame worn on the head of a hearing impaired person , for example glasses, are arranged and connected to one another by means of an adder (49). 14. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 8 bis 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Ausgangssignale (SA, SA′, SA′′) des Summenbild­ners (5, 5′, 8, 9, 49) nur ein Ohr oder beide Ohren des Hörgeschädigten versorgen.14. Directional microphone arrangement according to one of claims 8 to 13, characterized in that the output signals (S A , S A ', S A '') of the totalizer (5, 5', 8, 9, 49) supply only one ear or both ears of the hearing impaired. 15. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 8, da­durch gekennzeichnet, daß die Ein­zelmikrofone (M1, M2 oder M1, M2, M3) einschließlich der erforderlichen Elektronik (1, 2, 4, 5 bzw. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 bzw. 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9 bzw. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9) und einer Stromversorgungsquelle (45) in einem separaten Gehäuse (42) untergebracht sind, das an einem beliebigen Gestell (43), das am kopf des Hörgeschädigten angeordnet werden kann, lösbar befestigt ist.15. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 8, characterized in that the individual microphones (M1, M2 or M1, M2, M3) including the required electronics (1, 2, 4, 5 or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 1 , 2, 3, 7, 8, 9 or 1, 2, 7, 8, 9) and a power supply source (45) are accommodated in a separate housing (42) which is attached to any frame (43) which is on the head the hearing impaired can be arranged, is releasably attached. 16. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 15, da­durch gekennzeichnet, daß das Gestell (43) der Bügel einer Brille ist.16. directional microphone arrangement according to claim 15, characterized in that the frame (43) is the bracket of glasses. 17. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach Anspruch 15 oder 16, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß als Befestigungsmittel für das Gehäuse (42) Klammern, Klett­verschlüsse, Klebemittel, Stecker od. dgl. dienen.17. Directional microphone arrangement according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that brackets, Velcro closures, adhesives, plugs or the like serve as fastening means for the housing (42). 18. Richtmikrofonanordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 15 bis 17, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß das Gehäuse (42) ein Ausgangskabel (47) mit Stecker (48) umfaßt, der es gestattet, das Ausgangssignal (SA′ SA′′) der Richtmikrofonanordnung einem handelsüblichen Högerät über dem Audioeingang zuzuführen.18. Directional microphone arrangement according to one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that the housing (42) comprises an output cable (47) with plug (48) which allows the output signal (S A 'S A '') of the directional microphone arrangement one commercially available hearing aid over the audio input.
EP86113802A 1985-10-16 1986-10-06 Directional-microphone arrangement Expired - Lifetime EP0229230B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT86113802T ATE53734T1 (en) 1985-10-16 1986-10-06 DIRECTIONAL MIC ARRANGEMENT.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE3536885 1985-10-16
DE3536885 1985-10-16

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0229230A1 true EP0229230A1 (en) 1987-07-22
EP0229230B1 EP0229230B1 (en) 1990-06-13

Family

ID=6283723

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP86113802A Expired - Lifetime EP0229230B1 (en) 1985-10-16 1986-10-06 Directional-microphone arrangement

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US4712244A (en)
EP (1) EP0229230B1 (en)
JP (1) JPS6295097A (en)
AT (1) ATE53734T1 (en)
DE (2) DE8529437U1 (en)
DK (1) DK491986A (en)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2712132A1 (en) * 1993-11-01 1995-05-12 Motorola Inc Directional gradient microphone system and associated method.
WO2000019770A1 (en) * 1998-09-29 2000-04-06 Siemens Audiologische Technik Gmbh Hearing aid and method for processing microphone signals in a hearing aid

Families Citing this family (60)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH01319360A (en) * 1988-06-20 1989-12-25 Nec Corp Voice conference equipment
KR920000575B1 (en) * 1988-11-03 1992-01-16 삼성전관 주식회사 Solid-state image device
US5029216A (en) * 1989-06-09 1991-07-02 The United States Of America As Represented By The Administrator Of The National Aeronautics & Space Administration Visual aid for the hearing impaired
EP0472356B1 (en) * 1990-08-16 1994-03-30 Fujitsu Ten Limited Speech recognition apparatus for a vehicle, using a microphone arrangement to determine the seat from which a command is generated
CA2059597A1 (en) * 1991-01-22 1992-07-23 Paul A. Vogt Radio eyewear
US5159639A (en) * 1991-02-19 1992-10-27 Shannon Clark W Assistive listening device
US5243660A (en) * 1992-05-28 1993-09-07 Zagorski Michael A Directional microphone system
US5537477A (en) * 1994-02-07 1996-07-16 Ensoniq Corporation Frequency characteristic shaping circuitry and method
US8085959B2 (en) 1994-07-08 2011-12-27 Brigham Young University Hearing compensation system incorporating signal processing techniques
US5500902A (en) * 1994-07-08 1996-03-19 Stockham, Jr.; Thomas G. Hearing aid device incorporating signal processing techniques
US5680466A (en) * 1994-10-06 1997-10-21 Zelikovitz; Joseph Omnidirectional hearing aid
US6535610B1 (en) 1996-02-07 2003-03-18 Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated Directional microphone utilizing spaced apart omni-directional microphones
DE69738884D1 (en) * 1996-02-15 2008-09-18 Armand P Neukermans IMPROVED BIOKOMPATIBLE TRANSFORMERS
US6091832A (en) * 1996-08-12 2000-07-18 Interval Research Corporation Wearable personal audio loop apparatus
DE19635229C2 (en) * 1996-08-30 2001-04-26 Siemens Audiologische Technik Direction sensitive hearing aid
US5757933A (en) 1996-12-11 1998-05-26 Micro Ear Technology, Inc. In-the-ear hearing aid with directional microphone system
AUPO714197A0 (en) 1997-06-02 1997-06-26 University Of Melbourne, The Multi-strategy array processor
NL1007321C2 (en) * 1997-10-20 1999-04-21 Univ Delft Tech Hearing aid to improve audibility for the hearing impaired.
DE19810043A1 (en) * 1998-03-09 1999-09-23 Siemens Audiologische Technik Hearing aid with a directional microphone system
US6173059B1 (en) 1998-04-24 2001-01-09 Gentner Communications Corporation Teleconferencing system with visual feedback
DE19844748A1 (en) * 1998-09-29 1999-10-07 Siemens Audiologische Technik Method of preparing directional microphone characteristic, especially for listening device
US20010028718A1 (en) 2000-02-17 2001-10-11 Audia Technology, Inc. Null adaptation in multi-microphone directional system
WO2001069968A2 (en) * 2000-03-14 2001-09-20 Audia Technology, Inc. Adaptive microphone matching in multi-microphone directional system
US8482488B2 (en) 2004-12-22 2013-07-09 Oakley, Inc. Data input management system for wearable electronically enabled interface
US20120105740A1 (en) 2000-06-02 2012-05-03 Oakley, Inc. Eyewear with detachable adjustable electronics module
US7461936B2 (en) * 2000-06-02 2008-12-09 Oakley, Inc. Eyeglasses with detachable adjustable electronics module
US7150526B2 (en) 2000-06-02 2006-12-19 Oakley, Inc. Wireless interactive headset
US6937738B2 (en) * 2001-04-12 2005-08-30 Gennum Corporation Digital hearing aid system
US6633202B2 (en) 2001-04-12 2003-10-14 Gennum Corporation Precision low jitter oscillator circuit
ATE380347T1 (en) * 2001-04-18 2007-12-15 Gennum Corp DIGITAL QUASI AVERAGE DETECTOR
ATE318062T1 (en) * 2001-04-18 2006-03-15 Gennum Corp MULTI-CHANNEL HEARING AID WITH TRANSMISSION POSSIBILITIES BETWEEN THE CHANNELS
US20020191800A1 (en) * 2001-04-19 2002-12-19 Armstrong Stephen W. In-situ transducer modeling in a digital hearing instrument
US7013009B2 (en) 2001-06-21 2006-03-14 Oakley, Inc. Eyeglasses with wireless communication features
EP1284587B1 (en) * 2001-08-15 2011-09-28 Sound Design Technologies Ltd. Low-power reconfigurable hearing instrument
US8147544B2 (en) 2001-10-30 2012-04-03 Otokinetics Inc. Therapeutic appliance for cochlea
GB2385738A (en) * 2002-02-21 2003-08-27 Gordon Maclean Campbell Head-mounted microphone transmitting signals to a hearing aid
US7369669B2 (en) * 2002-05-15 2008-05-06 Micro Ear Technology, Inc. Diotic presentation of second-order gradient directional hearing aid signals
BR0312909A (en) 2002-07-26 2005-07-12 Oakley Inc Portable, wireless audio interfaces, audio interface systems, eyeglasses, eyepieces and interactive audio devices and methods of receiving telephone calls, signal handling in a wireless network and menu navigation
US7369671B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2008-05-06 Starkey, Laboratories, Inc. Switching structures for hearing aid
US8284970B2 (en) 2002-09-16 2012-10-09 Starkey Laboratories Inc. Switching structures for hearing aid
NO20031104D0 (en) * 2003-03-10 2003-03-10 Meditron Asa Mini Microphone
DK1695590T3 (en) * 2003-12-01 2014-06-02 Wolfson Dynamic Hearing Pty Ltd Method and apparatus for producing adaptive directional signals
RU2404531C2 (en) * 2004-03-31 2010-11-20 Свисском Аг Spectacle frames with integrated acoustic communication device for communication with mobile radio device and according method
US20060034478A1 (en) * 2004-08-11 2006-02-16 Davenport Kevin E Audio eyeglasses
US8041066B2 (en) 2007-01-03 2011-10-18 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Wireless system for hearing communication devices providing wireless stereo reception modes
US9774961B2 (en) 2005-06-05 2017-09-26 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Hearing assistance device ear-to-ear communication using an intermediate device
US8208642B2 (en) * 2006-07-10 2012-06-26 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Method and apparatus for a binaural hearing assistance system using monaural audio signals
US7740353B2 (en) 2006-12-14 2010-06-22 Oakley, Inc. Wearable high resolution audio visual interface
US9288589B2 (en) * 2008-05-28 2016-03-15 Yat Yiu Cheung Hearing aid apparatus
US8737653B2 (en) 2009-12-30 2014-05-27 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Noise reduction system for hearing assistance devices
GB2484473A (en) * 2010-10-11 2012-04-18 3M Innovative Properties Co Headset with ambient sound detecting microphones and bone conduction speakers
US9864211B2 (en) 2012-02-17 2018-01-09 Oakley, Inc. Systems and methods for removably coupling an electronic device to eyewear
CN205177388U (en) 2013-03-15 2016-04-20 奥克利有限公司 Eyepiece system
WO2014201213A1 (en) 2013-06-12 2014-12-18 Oakley, Inc. Modular heads-up display system
US9295836B2 (en) 2013-08-16 2016-03-29 Cochlear Limited Directionality device for auditory prosthesis microphone
WO2015109002A2 (en) * 2014-01-17 2015-07-23 Okappi, Inc. Hearing assistance system
US9380374B2 (en) 2014-01-17 2016-06-28 Okappi, Inc. Hearing assistance systems configured to detect and provide protection to the user from harmful conditions
US10003379B2 (en) 2014-05-06 2018-06-19 Starkey Laboratories, Inc. Wireless communication with probing bandwidth
WO2020038487A1 (en) * 2018-08-24 2020-02-27 深圳市韶音科技有限公司 Eyeglasses
US10553196B1 (en) 2018-11-06 2020-02-04 Michael A. Stewart Directional noise-cancelling and sound detection system and method for sound targeted hearing and imaging

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2301744A (en) * 1941-05-31 1942-11-10 Rca Corp Electroacoustical signal translating apparatus
DE2362874A1 (en) * 1972-12-20 1974-06-27 Akg Akustische Kino Geraete WITH AN ELECTRIC CAPACITOR MICROPHONE, ESPECIALLY FOR EYEWEAR
FR2282768A1 (en) * 1974-08-19 1976-03-19 Schoeps Karl Directional acoustic sensor with three input stages - two coupled directional acoustic paths are established with compensating circuitry
FR2436416A1 (en) * 1978-09-12 1980-04-11 Polaroid Corp RECEIVING SYSTEM HAVING A PRESET DIRECTIONAL RESPONSE
DE3102530A1 (en) * 1980-01-28 1981-11-26 Victor Company Of Japan, Ltd., Yokohama, Kanagawa VARIABLE ALIGNMENT MICROPHONE SYSTEM
DE3102208A1 (en) * 1980-01-25 1981-12-10 Victor Company Of Japan, Ltd., Yokohama, Kanagawa MICROPHONE SYSTEM WITH CHANGEABLE DIRECTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2982942A (en) * 1953-01-07 1961-05-02 Socony Mobil Oil Co Inc Directional sound detection
DE1272377B (en) * 1966-06-06 1968-07-11 Akustische Hearing glasses for high quality sound reproduction
AT371969B (en) * 1981-11-19 1983-08-25 Akg Akustische Kino Geraete MICROPHONE FOR STEREOPHONIC RECORDING OF ACOUSTIC EVENTS
JPS5964994A (en) * 1982-10-05 1984-04-13 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Microphone device
JPS5967797A (en) * 1982-10-12 1984-04-17 Nippon Columbia Co Ltd Microphone device
JPS59149494A (en) * 1983-02-16 1984-08-27 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd Microphone device

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2301744A (en) * 1941-05-31 1942-11-10 Rca Corp Electroacoustical signal translating apparatus
DE2362874A1 (en) * 1972-12-20 1974-06-27 Akg Akustische Kino Geraete WITH AN ELECTRIC CAPACITOR MICROPHONE, ESPECIALLY FOR EYEWEAR
FR2282768A1 (en) * 1974-08-19 1976-03-19 Schoeps Karl Directional acoustic sensor with three input stages - two coupled directional acoustic paths are established with compensating circuitry
FR2436416A1 (en) * 1978-09-12 1980-04-11 Polaroid Corp RECEIVING SYSTEM HAVING A PRESET DIRECTIONAL RESPONSE
DE3102208A1 (en) * 1980-01-25 1981-12-10 Victor Company Of Japan, Ltd., Yokohama, Kanagawa MICROPHONE SYSTEM WITH CHANGEABLE DIRECTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS
DE3102530A1 (en) * 1980-01-28 1981-11-26 Victor Company Of Japan, Ltd., Yokohama, Kanagawa VARIABLE ALIGNMENT MICROPHONE SYSTEM

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2712132A1 (en) * 1993-11-01 1995-05-12 Motorola Inc Directional gradient microphone system and associated method.
WO2000019770A1 (en) * 1998-09-29 2000-04-06 Siemens Audiologische Technik Gmbh Hearing aid and method for processing microphone signals in a hearing aid

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US4712244A (en) 1987-12-08
DK491986D0 (en) 1986-10-15
ATE53734T1 (en) 1990-06-15
EP0229230B1 (en) 1990-06-13
DE8529437U1 (en) 1987-06-11
DE3672079D1 (en) 1990-07-19
JPS6295097A (en) 1987-05-01
DK491986A (en) 1987-04-17

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0229230B1 (en) Directional-microphone arrangement
EP0219026B1 (en) Hearing aid
DE2936082A1 (en) DIRECTIONAL RECEIVING SYSTEM WITH PRE-DETECTED DIRECTIONAL RESPONSE
DE2337078A1 (en) DIRECTIONAL SENSITIVITY AID
EP2534855B1 (en) Behind-the-ear hearing aid having a plug-in connector
DE102012200745B4 (en) Method and hearing device for estimating a component of one's own voice
DE2639834A1 (en) BINAURAL MULTI-CHANNEL TEREOPHONY
DE3145105A1 (en) MICROPHONE
DE7918029U1 (en) SMALL HEATER
DE60117779T2 (en) "ACOUSTIC TRANSMISSION CONNECTION, HEADPHONE WITH ACOUSTIC TRANSMISSION CONNECTION AND USE OF THE ACOUSTIC TRANSMISSION CONNECTION"
EP2645743B1 (en) Hearing aid for a binaural supply and method for providing a binaural supply
EP3490272B1 (en) Batch of listening devices and method for producing a batch of listening devices
DE102013227088A1 (en) headphone
DE10334396B3 (en) Electrical hearing aid has individual microphones combined to provide 2 microphone units in turn combined to provide further microphone unit with same order directional characteristic
DE4230308C1 (en) Hearing aid carried behind ear - has stirrup formed on housing frame carrying electrical and electromechanical components
DE2802973A1 (en) SPEAKER
DE3428166A1 (en) Hearing aid to be worn in the auditory canal for persons with impaired or severely impaired hearing
DE3006365A1 (en) HOERGERAET
EP2373065B1 (en) Hearing aid and method for creating an omnidirectional alignment characteristic
DE2548596A1 (en) MICROPHONE SYSTEM
DE19733373C2 (en) Headphones with a decentralized converter system
DE10242111B4 (en) speakerphone
DE69823971T2 (en) Hearing aid with directional characteristic
CH694542A5 (en) Behind the ear hearing aid device portable.
DE3336414A1 (en) Stethoscope

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT CH DE FR GB IT LI NL SE

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19870807

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19890526

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT CH DE FR GB IT LI NL SE

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRE;WARNING: LAPSES OF ITALIAN PATENTS WITH EFFECTIVE DATE BEFORE 2007 MAY HAVE OCCURRED AT ANY TIME BEFORE 2007. THE CORRECT EFFECTIVE DATE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THE ONE RECORDED.SCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 19900613

Ref country code: SE

Effective date: 19900613

Ref country code: NL

Effective date: 19900613

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 53734

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19900615

Kind code of ref document: T

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 3672079

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19900719

ET Fr: translation filed
GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)
NLV1 Nl: lapsed or annulled due to failure to fulfill the requirements of art. 29p and 29m of the patents act
PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 19910913

Year of fee payment: 6

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Payment date: 19910918

Year of fee payment: 6

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Effective date: 19921006

Ref country code: AT

Effective date: 19921006

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 19921016

Year of fee payment: 7

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 19921006

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Effective date: 19940630

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20001218

Year of fee payment: 15

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20010111

Year of fee payment: 15

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20011031

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20011031

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20020702