EP1377119A2 - Acoustic module for a hearing aid - Google Patents

Acoustic module for a hearing aid Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1377119A2
EP1377119A2 EP03013647A EP03013647A EP1377119A2 EP 1377119 A2 EP1377119 A2 EP 1377119A2 EP 03013647 A EP03013647 A EP 03013647A EP 03013647 A EP03013647 A EP 03013647A EP 1377119 A2 EP1377119 A2 EP 1377119A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
hearing aid
acoustic module
module according
structural unit
microphone
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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
EP03013647A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1377119B1 (en
EP1377119A3 (en
Inventor
Torsten Dr. Niederdränk
Tom Weidner
Christian Weistenhöfer
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Sivantos GmbH
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Siemens Audioligische Technik GmbH
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/60—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles
    • H04R25/604—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles of acoustic or vibrational transducers
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
    • H04R25/45—Prevention of acoustic reaction, i.e. acoustic oscillatory feedback
    • H04R25/453—Prevention of acoustic reaction, i.e. acoustic oscillatory feedback electronically
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
    • H04R1/00—Details of transducers, loudspeakers or microphones
    • H04R1/20—Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics
    • H04R1/32—Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only
    • H04R1/34—Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by using a single transducer with sound reflecting, diffracting, directing or guiding means
    • H04R1/38—Arrangements for obtaining desired frequency or directional characteristics for obtaining desired directional characteristic only by using a single transducer with sound reflecting, diffracting, directing or guiding means in which sound waves act upon both sides of a diaphragm and incorporating acoustic phase-shifting means, e.g. pressure-gradient microphone

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an acoustic module for a hearing aid device with a structural unit which has at least one microphone and at least one receiver.
  • An acoustic module of the type mentioned at the outset is known from DE 3501178 A1, in which a receiving part is described, each of which has a compartment for receiving sound transducers, in particular a receiver and a microphone.
  • the compartments can be closed soundproof in order to shield the microphone from the airborne sound emitted by the listener.
  • DE 3723809 A1 discloses a hearing aid to be worn behind the ear, which is divided into two housing sections.
  • the first housing section preferably contains a microphone, a receiver and an amplifier circuit, the second section contains a battery compartment.
  • a modular hearing aid device is known from US Pat. No. 5,204,917, which comprises the following modules: a microphone module, a loudspeaker module, an amplifier module and a battery module.
  • DE 198 52 758 A1 discloses a microphone system which is constructed in the form of a module and is fastened on a support which is attached to the hearing device housing in a rotatable and pivotable manner. As a result, the microphone system can be oriented toward a speaker, for example, to improve the directional characteristic.
  • DE 196 35 229 A1 discloses a microphone module in which the microphones are equipped with a common sound channel. This improves the protection of the microphones from dirt, simplifies the arrangement of the controls and enables effective shielding with consistently good directivity of the microphone module.
  • a BTE hearing aid is known from DE 19908194 C1, which enables directional hearing.
  • DE 19545760 C1 discloses a hearing aid with a shield against high-frequency electromagnetic waves.
  • the construction of a hearing aid is generally chosen so that the microphone and receiver are accommodated in the hearing aid as far apart as possible so that they are decoupled from one another in terms of vibration.
  • the invention has for its object to simplify the construction of a hearing aid, its manufacture and the compensation of feedback.
  • the structural unit has a signal processing unit for suppressing feedback, which is connected to the microphone and the receiver.
  • the object is achieved by a hearing aid with a hearing aid signal processing unit, which has a recess for receiving such an acoustic module, and by a hearing aid with a hearing aid signal processing unit and with such an acoustic module.
  • An acoustic module according to the invention has the advantage that the signal processing for reducing the feedback can already be carried out in the acoustic module by means of the signal processing unit.
  • An acoustic module according to the invention is used with a hearing aid device which also has hearing aid device signal processing having.
  • the hearing aid signal processing differs from the signal processing unit for feedback suppression in the acoustic module.
  • the former carries out the signal processing customary in a hearing aid device, for example in accordance with a hearing damage of a hearing aid device user. The latter tries to reduce feedback in the acoustic module.
  • An advantage of using an acoustic module that comprises one or more microphones and one or more loudspeakers is that the overall structure of the hearing aid device is simplified by the more extensive module and correspondingly smaller housing sizes and shorter sound channels of the hearing aid device are possible.
  • Another advantage of a common unit of microphone and loudspeaker is, on the one hand, that the unit can be optimized for low feedback by a special geometric, acoustomechanical arrangement of the built-in microphone and the loudspeaker.
  • the feedback can be caused, for example, by structure-borne noise coupling or by acoustic feedback through the air between the loudspeaker and the microphone.
  • the feedback of the structural unit which has not been minimized or has been minimized in a complex manner, can be measured.
  • This measured feedback characteristic of the acoustic module can, for example, be stored electronically in the acoustic module or in the hearing aid device and then used to compensate for the feedback by means of the signal processing unit and an algorithm, similar to a feedback compensation circuit.
  • Another possible algorithm suppresses the feedback without resorting to a measured feedback characteristic, in that it develops itself like an evolution algorithm towards a feedback-free signal.
  • an acoustic module according to the invention offers the advantageous possibility of an independent development and production that is independent of the end product of the hearing aid device.
  • the finished acoustic module can then be adopted in the development or manufacturing process of the hearing aid.
  • the structural unit has a carrier structure to which the microphone and the receiver are connected.
  • this common support structure can be made particularly vibration-damping, for example by material reinforcements or particularly suitable materials.
  • the structural unit has a housing.
  • this offers the possibility of isolating the structural unit from external interference vibrations, and on the other hand it enables damping vibrations in the housing.
  • the assembly comprises a directional microphone.
  • the structural unit comprises at least two microphones which form a directional microphone system. The last two embodiments make it possible to integrate the advantageous property of directional sensitivity into the structural unit.
  • damping materials are installed in the structural unit of the acoustic module. These can either be attached to the support structure or to the housing, and have the advantage that they suppress vibrations from the microphone or receiver at the origin or suppress their forwarding.
  • the acoustic module has fastening means which enable the structural unit to be fastened to the hearing aid device. This is advantageous because one standardized mounting of the unit can be used in different hearing aids.
  • the structural unit is firmly inserted into the hearing aid, so that the vibration coupling of the structural unit to the hearing aid also takes place in a known manner and can therefore be included in the feedback characteristic.
  • the structural unit is inserted into the hearing aid in a detachable, connectable manner.
  • This has the additional advantage that the acoustic module can be easily replaced for service purposes.
  • the advantage of both fixed and detachable connections is the suppression of rigid body vibrations of the assembly and the possibility of relatively simple mechanical or electrical connection technologies, such as plug connections, flex circuit boards or MID technology (a technology for producing three-dimensional injection molded components, molded interconnect devices) use that do not require rubber parts.
  • MID technology a technology for producing three-dimensional injection molded components, molded interconnect devices
  • An advantageous embodiment provides plug contacts with which the assembly is connected to a hearing aid signal processing unit. This has the advantage that stranded connections to the receiver and microphone, which are unfavorable for production and service, are eliminated. An additional advantage is that an algorithm for reducing the feedback can also be carried out by means of the hearing aid signal processing unit.
  • a further advantageous embodiment has a device which protects the structural unit from electromagnetic fields shields.
  • the compact structure of the acoustic module and its structural unit simplify this shielding device.
  • the invention can be applied to all known types of hearing aids, for example hearing aids that can be worn behind the ear, hearing aids that can be worn in the ear, implantable hearing aids, hearing aid systems or pocket hearing aids.
  • FIG. 1 shows a hearing aid device which comprises a battery 3 for supplying energy to the hearing aid device, a hearing aid device signal processing unit 5 and a structural unit 7 of an acoustic module.
  • the assembly 7 is located in a recess of the hearing aid 1, which is used to hold the acoustic module.
  • the structural unit 7 is fixed and built into the hearing device with vibration-isolating materials 9 in a vibration-isolated manner. Alternatively, this attachment could also be made releasably connectable.
  • the structural unit 7 comprises a receiver 11, two microphones 13 and a signal processing unit 15. The receiver 11, the microphones 13 and the signal processing unit 15 are fastened to a carrier structure 17.
  • Damping materials 19 which dampen structure-borne sound vibrations, which are generated by the receiver 11 within the structural unit 7, have been attached to the partially reinforced support structure 17 and prevent a transfer to the microphones.
  • the assembly 7 is enclosed by a housing 21, which is provided with a shield 22 against electromagnetic fields.
  • the signal processing unit 15 is connected to plug contacts 26. These plug contacts represent the connection to the hearing aid signal processing unit 5.
  • the hearing aid signal processing unit 5 changes the electronic signals in accordance with the hearing damage of the hearing aid user and sends these electronic signals to the listener 11, which forwards them to the hearing aid user.
  • the algorithm for cleaning the signal from feedback components can also be carried out in the hearing aid signal processing unit 5.
  • the algorithms used can be, for example, evolution algorithms or algorithms that clean the signal with the aid of a feedback characteristic from unit 7 or hearing aid device 1.
  • FIG. 2 shows the schematic structure of a directional microphone 25.
  • a so-called gradient directional microphone has two sound inputs 27, from which the sound is conducted via two sound channels 28 to the opposite sides of the membrane 29.
  • the movement of the membrane 29 is determined by the difference in the instantaneous sound pressure on the two membrane sides. It is therefore dependent on the difference between the two possible paths between the sound source and the membrane 29, which is determined by the relative position of the sound source to the sound inputs 27.
  • FIG. 3 shows a block diagram for the functioning of a directional microphone system 24.
  • the signal of two non-directional microphones 13 is interconnected via a summation element 31 after one of the two signals has been inverted by means of an inverter 33 and delayed by means of a delay 35.
  • the signal available at the signal output 37 then depends on the relative position of the sound source to the non-directional microphones 13.

Abstract

The electronic acoustic module (7) is embedded within the body of the hearing aid (1) which is battery powered (3). Within the hearing aid are two directional microphones (13) and the ear piece loudspeaker (11) that emits sound. The acoustic unit has a processor that performs a function to suppress any feedback between microphones and loudspeaker.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein Akustikmodul für ein Hörhilfsgerät mit einer Baueinheit, welche mindestens ein Mikrofon und mindestens einen Hörer aufweist.The invention relates to an acoustic module for a hearing aid device with a structural unit which has at least one microphone and at least one receiver.

Ein Akustikmodul der eingangs genannten Art ist aus der DE 3501178 A1 bekannt, in der ein Aufnahmeteil beschrieben ist, das jeweils ein Abteil zur Aufnahme von Schallwandlern, insbesondere von einem Hörer und einem Mikrofon, aufweist. Dabei sind die Abteile schalldicht verschließbar, um das Mikrofon gegen den vom Hörer abgestrahlten Luftschall abzuschirmen.An acoustic module of the type mentioned at the outset is known from DE 3501178 A1, in which a receiving part is described, each of which has a compartment for receiving sound transducers, in particular a receiver and a microphone. The compartments can be closed soundproof in order to shield the microphone from the airborne sound emitted by the listener.

Aus der DE 3723809 A1 ist ein hinter dem Ohr zu tragendes Hörgerät bekannt, das in zwei Gehäuseabschnitte aufgeteilt ist. Der erste Gehäuseabschnitt enthält vorzugsweise ein Mikrofon, einen Hörer und eine Verstärkerschaltung, der zweite Abschnitt enthält ein Batteriefach.DE 3723809 A1 discloses a hearing aid to be worn behind the ear, which is divided into two housing sections. The first housing section preferably contains a microphone, a receiver and an amplifier circuit, the second section contains a battery compartment.

Aus US 5,204,917 ist ein modular aufgebautes Hörhilfsgerät bekannt, das folgende Module umfasst: ein Mikrofonmodul, ein Lautsprechermodul, ein Verstärkermodul und ein Batteriemodul.A modular hearing aid device is known from US Pat. No. 5,204,917, which comprises the following modules: a microphone module, a loudspeaker module, an amplifier module and a battery module.

Aus DE 198 52 758 A1 ist ein Mikrofonsystem bekannt, das in Form eines Moduls aufgebaut ist und auf einem drehbar und schwenkbar am Hörgerätegehäuse angebrachten Träger befestigt ist. Dadurch kann das Mikrofonsystem zur Verbesserung der Richtcharakteristik beispielsweise auf einen Sprecher hin ausgerichtet werden.DE 198 52 758 A1 discloses a microphone system which is constructed in the form of a module and is fastened on a support which is attached to the hearing device housing in a rotatable and pivotable manner. As a result, the microphone system can be oriented toward a speaker, for example, to improve the directional characteristic.

Aus DE 196 35 229 A1 ist ein Mikrofonmodul bekannt, bei dem die Mikrofone mit einem gemeinsamen Schallkanal ausgestattet sind. Dies verbessert den Schutz der Mikrofone vor Schmutz, vereinfacht die Anordnung der Bedienelemente und ermöglicht eine wirksame Abschirmung bei gleichbleibend guter Richtwirkung des Mikrofonmoduls.DE 196 35 229 A1 discloses a microphone module in which the microphones are equipped with a common sound channel. This improves the protection of the microphones from dirt, simplifies the arrangement of the controls and enables effective shielding with consistently good directivity of the microphone module.

Aus der DE 19908194 C1 ist ein HdO-Hörhilfegerät bekannt, welches Richtungshören ermöglicht.A BTE hearing aid is known from DE 19908194 C1, which enables directional hearing.

Aus der DE 19545760 C1 ist ein Hörgerät mit einer Abschirmung gegen hochfrequente elektromagnetische Wellen bekannt.DE 19545760 C1 discloses a hearing aid with a shield against high-frequency electromagnetic waves.

Der Aufbau eines Hörhilfsgeräts wird im Allgemeinen so gewählt, dass Mikrofon und Hörer im Hörhilfsgerät möglichst weit von einander entfernt untergebracht sind, damit sie schwingungstechnisch von einander entkoppelt sind.The construction of a hearing aid is generally chosen so that the microphone and receiver are accommodated in the hearing aid as far apart as possible so that they are decoupled from one another in terms of vibration.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, den Aufbau eines Hörhilfsgeräts, dessen Fertigung und die Kompensation von Rückkopplung zu vereinfachen.The invention has for its object to simplify the construction of a hearing aid, its manufacture and the compensation of feedback.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß bei dem eingangs genannten Akustikmodul dadurch gelöst, dass die Baueinheit eine Signalverarbeitungseinheit zur Rückkopplungsunterdrückung aufweist, die mit dem Mikrofon und dem Hörer verbunden ist.This object is achieved according to the invention in the above-mentioned acoustic module in that the structural unit has a signal processing unit for suppressing feedback, which is connected to the microphone and the receiver.

Ferner wird die Aufgabe durch ein Hörhilfsgerät mit einer Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit, das eine Ausnehmung zur Aufnahme eines solchen Akustikmoduls aufweist, sowie durch ein Hörhilfsgerät mit einer Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit und mit einem solchen Akustikmodul gelöst.Furthermore, the object is achieved by a hearing aid with a hearing aid signal processing unit, which has a recess for receiving such an acoustic module, and by a hearing aid with a hearing aid signal processing unit and with such an acoustic module.

Ein Akustikmodul nach der Erfindung hat den Vorteil, dass die Signalverarbeitung zur Verminderung der Rückkopplung schon im Akustikmodul mittels der Signalverarbeitungseinheit durchgeführt werden kann.An acoustic module according to the invention has the advantage that the signal processing for reducing the feedback can already be carried out in the acoustic module by means of the signal processing unit.

Ein Akustikmodul nach der Erfindung wird mit einem Hörhilfsgerät verwendet, das zusätzlich eine Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitung aufweist. Die Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitung unterscheidet sich von der Signalverarbeitungseinheit zur Rückkopplungsunterdrückung im Akustikmodul. Erstere führt dem Namen entsprechend die in einem Hörhilfsgerät übliche Signalverarbeitung beispielsweise entsprechend einem Hörschaden eines Hörhilfsgerätbenutzers durch. Letztere versucht Rückkopplungen im Akustikmodul zu vermindern.An acoustic module according to the invention is used with a hearing aid device which also has hearing aid device signal processing having. The hearing aid signal processing differs from the signal processing unit for feedback suppression in the acoustic module. According to the name, the former carries out the signal processing customary in a hearing aid device, for example in accordance with a hearing damage of a hearing aid device user. The latter tries to reduce feedback in the acoustic module.

Ein Vorteil der Verwendung eines Akustikmoduls, das ein oder mehrere Mikrofone und ein oder mehrere Lautsprecher umfasst, ist, dass der Gesamtaufbau des Hörhilfsgeräts durch das umfassendere Modul vereinfacht wird und entsprechend kleinere Gehäusegrößen und kürzere Schallkanäle des Hörhilfsgeräts möglich sind.An advantage of using an acoustic module that comprises one or more microphones and one or more loudspeakers is that the overall structure of the hearing aid device is simplified by the more extensive module and correspondingly smaller housing sizes and shorter sound channels of the hearing aid device are possible.

Ein weiterer Vorteil einer gemeinsamen Baueinheit von Mikrofon und Lautsprecher liegt einerseits darin, dass die Baueinheit durch eine spezielle geometrische, akustomechanische Anordnung des eingebauten Mikrofons und des Lautsprechers auf eine geringe Rückkopplung hin optimiert werden kann. Die Rückkopplung kann beispielsweise durch Körperschallkopplung oder durch akustische Rückkopplung durch die Luft zwischen Lautsprecher und Mikrofon hervorgerufen werden.Another advantage of a common unit of microphone and loudspeaker is, on the one hand, that the unit can be optimized for low feedback by a special geometric, acoustomechanical arrangement of the built-in microphone and the loudspeaker. The feedback can be caused, for example, by structure-borne noise coupling or by acoustic feedback through the air between the loudspeaker and the microphone.

Andererseits hat man den Vorteil, dass die Rückkopplung der Baueinheit, die nicht, nur wenig oder aufwendig minimiert wurde, vermessen werden kann. Diese gemessene Rückkopplungscharakteristik des Akustikmoduls kann beispielsweise im Akustikmodul oder im Hörhilfsgerät elektronisch gespeichert werden und dann mittels der Signalverarbeitungseinheit und einem Algorithmus, ähnlich einer Feedbackkompensationsschaltung, zur Kompensation der Rückkopplung verwendet werden. Ein anderer möglicher Algorithmus unterdrückt die Rückkopplung ohne auf eine gemessene Rückkopplungscharakteristik zurückzugreifen, indem er sich selbst wie ein Evolutionsalgorithmus auf ein rückkopplungsfreies Signal hin entwickelt.On the other hand, there is the advantage that the feedback of the structural unit, which has not been minimized or has been minimized in a complex manner, can be measured. This measured feedback characteristic of the acoustic module can, for example, be stored electronically in the acoustic module or in the hearing aid device and then used to compensate for the feedback by means of the signal processing unit and an algorithm, similar to a feedback compensation circuit. Another possible algorithm suppresses the feedback without resorting to a measured feedback characteristic, in that it develops itself like an evolution algorithm towards a feedback-free signal.

Des weiteren bietet ein Akustikmodul nach der Erfindung die vorteilhafte Möglichkeit einer eigenständigen und vom Endprodukt Hörhilfsgerät unabhängigen Entwicklung und Produktion. Das fertige Akustikmodul kann anschließend in den Entwicklungs- bzw. Fertigungsprozess des Hörhilfsgeräts übernommen werden.Furthermore, an acoustic module according to the invention offers the advantageous possibility of an independent development and production that is independent of the end product of the hearing aid device. The finished acoustic module can then be adopted in the development or manufacturing process of the hearing aid.

In einer Ausführungsform weist die Baueinheit eine Trägerstruktur auf, mit der Mikrofon und Hörer verbunden sind. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass diese gemeinsame Trägerstruktur beispielsweise durch Materialverstärkungen oder besonders geeignete Materialien besonders schwingungsdämpfend ausgeführt werden kann.In one embodiment, the structural unit has a carrier structure to which the microphone and the receiver are connected. This has the advantage that this common support structure can be made particularly vibration-damping, for example by material reinforcements or particularly suitable materials.

In einer vorteilhaften Ausführungsform weist die Baueinheit ein Gehäuse auf. Dies bietet einerseits die Möglichkeit zur Isolation der Baueinheit vor externen Störschwingungen, und anderseits ermöglicht es, Schwingungen im Gehäuse zu dämpfen.In an advantageous embodiment, the structural unit has a housing. On the one hand, this offers the possibility of isolating the structural unit from external interference vibrations, and on the other hand it enables damping vibrations in the housing.

In einer vorteilhaften Ausführungsform umfasst die Baueinheit ein Richtmikrofon. In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsform umfasst die Baueinheit mindestens zwei Mikrofone, die ein Richtmikrofonsystem bilden. Die letzten beiden Ausführungsformen ermöglichen es, die vorteilhafte Eigenschaft der Richtungsempfindlichkeit in die Baueinheit zu integrieren.In an advantageous embodiment, the assembly comprises a directional microphone. In a further advantageous embodiment, the structural unit comprises at least two microphones which form a directional microphone system. The last two embodiments make it possible to integrate the advantageous property of directional sensitivity into the structural unit.

In einer besonderen Ausführungsform werden in die Baueinheit des Akustikmoduls Dämpfungsmaterialien eingebaut. Diese können entweder an der Trägerstruktur oder am Gehäuse befestigt sein, und haben den Vorteil, dass sie Schwingungen von Mikrofon oder Hörer am Ursprung unterdrücken oder deren Weiterleitung unterdrücken.In a special embodiment, damping materials are installed in the structural unit of the acoustic module. These can either be attached to the support structure or to the housing, and have the advantage that they suppress vibrations from the microphone or receiver at the origin or suppress their forwarding.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsform weist das Akustikmodul Befestigungsmittel auf, die eine Befestigung der Baueinheit am Hörhilfsgerät ermöglichen. Dies ist vorteilhaft, da eine standardisierte Befestigung der Baueinheit in verschiedenen Hörhilfsgeräten benutzt werden kann.In a further embodiment, the acoustic module has fastening means which enable the structural unit to be fastened to the hearing aid device. This is advantageous because one standardized mounting of the unit can be used in different hearing aids.

In einer besonderen Ausführungsform wird die Baueinheit fest in das Hörhilfsgerät eingesetzt, so dass auch die Schwingungsankopplung der Baueinheit mit dem Hörhilfsgerät in bekannter Weise stattfindet und somit in die Rückkopplungscharakteristik einbezogen werden kann.In a special embodiment, the structural unit is firmly inserted into the hearing aid, so that the vibration coupling of the structural unit to the hearing aid also takes place in a known manner and can therefore be included in the feedback characteristic.

In einer anderen vorteilhaften Ausführungsform wird die Baueinheit lösbar verbindbar in das Hörhilfsgerät eingesetzt. Dies hat den zusätzlichen Vorteil, dass das Akustikmodul zu Servicezwecken leicht ausgetauscht werden kann. Vorteilhaft für sowohl feste als auch lösbar verbindbare Verbindungen ist die Unterdrückung von Starrkörperschwingungen der Baueinheit und die Möglichkeit relativ einfache mechanische oder elektrische Verbindungstechniken, wie Steckverbindungen, Flexplatine oder MID-Technologie (eine Technologie zur Herstellung von dreidimensionalen spritzgegossenen Bauteilen, Molded Interconnect Devices), zu verwenden, die keine Gummiteile benötigen. Die Möglichkeit, ohne dämpfende verformbare Materialen wie Gummiteile auszukommen, verbessert die Langzeitstabilität der Baueinheit und verringert so die Entwicklungs-, Serviceund Fertigungskosten und den damit verbundenen Zeitaufwand.In another advantageous embodiment, the structural unit is inserted into the hearing aid in a detachable, connectable manner. This has the additional advantage that the acoustic module can be easily replaced for service purposes. The advantage of both fixed and detachable connections is the suppression of rigid body vibrations of the assembly and the possibility of relatively simple mechanical or electrical connection technologies, such as plug connections, flex circuit boards or MID technology (a technology for producing three-dimensional injection molded components, molded interconnect devices) use that do not require rubber parts. The possibility of doing without damping deformable materials such as rubber parts improves the long-term stability of the structural unit and thus reduces the development, service and manufacturing costs and the associated time expenditure.

Eine vorteilhafte Ausführungsform sieht Steckkontakte vor, mit dem die Baueinheit mit einer Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit verbunden wird. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass für die Fertigung und den Service ungünstige Litzenverbindungen zu Hörer und Mikrofon wegfallen. Ein zusätzlicher Vorteil besteht darin, dass auch mittels der Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit ein Algorithmus zur Verminderung der Rückkopplung ausgeführt werden kann.An advantageous embodiment provides plug contacts with which the assembly is connected to a hearing aid signal processing unit. This has the advantage that stranded connections to the receiver and microphone, which are unfavorable for production and service, are eliminated. An additional advantage is that an algorithm for reducing the feedback can also be carried out by means of the hearing aid signal processing unit.

Eine weitere vorteilhafte Ausführungsform weist eine Vorrichtung auf, die die Baueinheit vor elektromagnetischen Feldern abschirmt. Der kompakte Aufbau des Akustikmoduls und seiner Baueinheit vereinfachen diese Abschirmungsvorrichtung.A further advantageous embodiment has a device which protects the structural unit from electromagnetic fields shields. The compact structure of the acoustic module and its structural unit simplify this shielding device.

Weitere vorteilhafte Ausführungsformen der Erfindung sind durch die Merkmale der Unteransprüche gekennzeichnet.Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are characterized by the features of the subclaims.

Die Erfindung kann bei allen bekannten Hörgeräte-Typen angewendet werden, beispielsweise bei hinter dem Ohr tragbaren Hörgeräten, in dem Ohr tragbaren Hörgeräten, implantierbaren Hörgeräten, Hörgerätesystemen oder Taschenhörgeräten.The invention can be applied to all known types of hearing aids, for example hearing aids that can be worn behind the ear, hearing aids that can be worn in the ear, implantable hearing aids, hearing aid systems or pocket hearing aids.

Es folgt die Erläuterung eines Ausführungsbeispiels der Erfindung anhand der Figuren 1 bis 3. Es zeigen:

  • FIG 1 ein Hörhilfsgerät, in das eine Baueinheit eines Akustikmoduls eingesetzt ist,
  • FIG 2 ein sogenanntes Gradienten-Richtmikrofon und
  • FIG 3 ein Blockdiagramm eines Richtmikrofonsystems aus zwei Mikrofonen, die elektronisch mit einander verschaltet sind.
The following is an explanation of an exemplary embodiment of the invention with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. The figures show:
  • 1 shows a hearing aid in which a structural unit of an acoustic module is inserted,
  • 2 shows a so-called gradient directional microphone and
  • 3 shows a block diagram of a directional microphone system comprising two microphones which are electronically connected to one another.

In Figur 1 ist ein Hörhilfsgerät dargestellt, das eine Batterie 3 zur Energieversorgung des Hörhilfsgeräts, eine Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit 5 und eine Baueinheit 7 eines Akustikmoduls umfasst. Die Baueinheit 7 befindet sich in einer Ausnehmung des Hörhilfsgeräts 1, die zur Aufnahme des Akustikmoduls dient. Die Baueinheit 7 ist fest und mit Dämpfungsmaterialien 9 schwingungsisoliert in das Hörgerät eingebaut. Alternativ könnte diese Befestigung auch lösbar verbindbar ausgeführt sein. Die Baueinheit 7 umfasst ein Hörer 11, zwei Mikrofone 13 und eine Signalverarbeitungseinheit 15. Der Hörer 11, die Mikrofone 13 und die Signalverarbeitungseinheit 15 sind an einer Trägerstruktur 17 befestigt. An der zum Teil verstärkten Trägerstruktur 17 wurden Dämpfungsmaterialien 19 angebracht, die Körperschallschwingungen dämpfen, die innerhalb der Baueinheit 7 durch den Hörer 11 erzeugt werden und eine Überleitung zu den Mikrofonen verhindern. Die Baueinheit 7 wird von einem Gehäuse 21 umschlossen, das mit einer Abschirmung 22 vor elektromagnetischen Feldern versehen ist.FIG. 1 shows a hearing aid device which comprises a battery 3 for supplying energy to the hearing aid device, a hearing aid device signal processing unit 5 and a structural unit 7 of an acoustic module. The assembly 7 is located in a recess of the hearing aid 1, which is used to hold the acoustic module. The structural unit 7 is fixed and built into the hearing device with vibration-isolating materials 9 in a vibration-isolated manner. Alternatively, this attachment could also be made releasably connectable. The structural unit 7 comprises a receiver 11, two microphones 13 and a signal processing unit 15. The receiver 11, the microphones 13 and the signal processing unit 15 are fastened to a carrier structure 17. Damping materials 19, which dampen structure-borne sound vibrations, which are generated by the receiver 11 within the structural unit 7, have been attached to the partially reinforced support structure 17 and prevent a transfer to the microphones. The assembly 7 is enclosed by a housing 21, which is provided with a shield 22 against electromagnetic fields.

Nehmen die Mikrofone 13, die auch als Richtmikrofonsystem 24 oder als Richtmikrofon 25 ausgeführt seien können, akustische Signale auf, so werden diese in elektronische Signale umgewandelt und mittels der Signalverarbeitungseinheit 15 über einen Algorithmus von Rückkopplungssignalanteilen, die beispielsweise vom Hörer 11 auf die Mikrofone 13 über das Gehäuse der Baueinheit 7 oder des Hörhilfsgeräts 1 (Körperschall) oder über die Luft (akustischer Schall) rückkoppeln, gereinigt. Die Signalverarbeitungseinheit 15 ist mit Steckkontakten 26 verbunden. Diese Steckkontakte stellen die Verbindung zur Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit 5 dar. Die Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit 5 verändert die elektronischen Signale entsprechend dem Hörschaden des Hörhilfsgerätbenutzers und sendet diese elektronischen Signale zum Hörer 11, der diese an den Hörgerätsbenutzer weiterleitet. Auch in der Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit 5 kann der Algorithmus zur Reinigung des Signals von Rückkopplungsanteilen ausgeführt werden. Die verwendeten Algorithmen können beispielsweise Evolutionsalgorithmen sein oder Algorithmen, die das Signal mithilfe einer Rückkopplungscharakteristik von Baueinheit 7 oder Hörhilfsgerät 1 reinigen.If the microphones 13, which can also be designed as a directional microphone system 24 or as a directional microphone 25, record acoustic signals, then these are converted into electronic signals and by means of the signal processing unit 15 via an algorithm of feedback signal components which are transmitted, for example, from the receiver 11 to the microphones 13 feedback the housing of the unit 7 or the hearing aid 1 (structure-borne noise) or via the air (acoustic sound), cleaned. The signal processing unit 15 is connected to plug contacts 26. These plug contacts represent the connection to the hearing aid signal processing unit 5. The hearing aid signal processing unit 5 changes the electronic signals in accordance with the hearing damage of the hearing aid user and sends these electronic signals to the listener 11, which forwards them to the hearing aid user. The algorithm for cleaning the signal from feedback components can also be carried out in the hearing aid signal processing unit 5. The algorithms used can be, for example, evolution algorithms or algorithms that clean the signal with the aid of a feedback characteristic from unit 7 or hearing aid device 1.

Figur 2 zeigt den schematischen Aufbau eines Richtmikrofons 25. Ein solches sogenanntes Gradientenrichtmikrofon weist zwei Schalleingänge 27 auf, von denen der Schall über zwei Schallkanälen 28 zu den gegenüberliegenden Seiten der Membran 29 geleitet wird. Die Bewegung der Membran 29 wird durch die Differenz des momentanen Schalldrucks an den beiden Membranseiten bestimmt. Sie ist somit abhängig von der Differenz der beiden möglichen Wege zwischen Schallquelle und Membran 29, die durch die relative Lage von der Schallquelle zu den Schalleingängen 27 bestimmt wird.FIG. 2 shows the schematic structure of a directional microphone 25. Such a so-called gradient directional microphone has two sound inputs 27, from which the sound is conducted via two sound channels 28 to the opposite sides of the membrane 29. The movement of the membrane 29 is determined by the difference in the instantaneous sound pressure on the two membrane sides. It is therefore dependent on the difference between the two possible paths between the sound source and the membrane 29, which is determined by the relative position of the sound source to the sound inputs 27.

Figur 3 zeigt ein Blockdiagramm für die Funktionsweise eines Richtmikrofonsystems 24. Das Signal zweier ungerichteter Mikrofone 13 wird über ein Summenelement 31 miteinander verschaltet, nachdem eines der beiden Signale mittels eines Inverters 33 invertiert und mittels eines Verzögerers 35 verzögert wurde. Das am Signalausgang 37 zur Verfügung stehende Signal hängt dann von der relativen Lage der Schallquelle zu den ungerichteten Mikrofonen 13 ab.FIG. 3 shows a block diagram for the functioning of a directional microphone system 24. The signal of two non-directional microphones 13 is interconnected via a summation element 31 after one of the two signals has been inverted by means of an inverter 33 and delayed by means of a delay 35. The signal available at the signal output 37 then depends on the relative position of the sound source to the non-directional microphones 13.

Claims (19)

Akustikmodul für ein Hörhilfsgerät (1) mit einer Baueinheit (7), welche mindestens ein Mikrofon (13) und mindestens einen Hörer (11) aufweist,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) eine Signalverarbeitungseinheit (15) zur Rückkopplungsunterdrückung aufweist, die mit dem Mikrofon (13) und dem Hörer (11) verbunden ist.Acoustic module for a hearing aid (1) with a structural unit (7) which has at least one microphone (13) and at least one receiver (11),
characterized in that the structural unit (7) has a signal processing unit (15) for feedback suppression, which is connected to the microphone (13) and the receiver (11). Akustikmodul nach Anspruch 1,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) eine Trägerstruktur (17) aufweist, mit der das Mikrofon (13) und der Hörer (11) verbunden sind.Acoustic module according to claim 1,
characterized in that the structural unit (7) has a carrier structure (17) to which the microphone (13) and the receiver (11) are connected. Akustikmodul nach Anspruch 1 oder 2,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) ein Gehäuse (21) aufweist.Acoustic module according to claim 1 or 2,
characterized in that the structural unit (7) has a housing (21). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Mikrofon (13) als Richtmikrofon (25) ausgebildet ist.Acoustic module according to one of claims 1 to 3,
characterized in that the microphone (13) is designed as a directional microphone (25). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 3,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) mehrere Mikrofone (13) umfasst.Acoustic module according to one of claims 1 to 3,
characterized in that the structural unit (7) comprises a plurality of microphones (13). Akustikmodul nach Anspruch 5,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Mikrofone (13) ein Richtmikrofonsystem (24) bilden.Acoustic module according to claim 5,
characterized in that the microphones (13) form a directional microphone system (24). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass Dämpfungsmaterialien (19) in die Baueinheit (7) eingebaut sind.Acoustic module according to one of Claims 1 to 6,
characterized in that damping materials (19) are built into the structural unit (7). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 7,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Akustikmodul Befestigungsmittel umfasst, um die Baueinheit (7) am Hörhilfsgerät (1) zu befestigen.Acoustic module according to one of claims 1 to 7,
characterized in that the acoustic module comprises fastening means in order to fasten the structural unit (7) to the hearing aid (1). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) Mittel zum festen Verbinden mit dem Hörhilfsgerät (1) umfasst.Acoustic module according to one of claims 1 to 8,
characterized in that the structural unit (7) comprises means for fixed connection to the hearing aid (1). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) Mittel zum lösbaren Verbinden mit dem Hörhilfsgerät (1) umfasst.Acoustic module according to one of claims 1 to 8,
characterized in that the structural unit (7) comprises means for releasable connection to the hearing aid (1). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 10,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) Mittel zum schwingungsgedämpften Befestigen mit dem Hörhilfsgerät (1) umfasst.Acoustic module according to one of claims 1 to 10,
characterized in that the structural unit (7) comprises means for vibration-damped fastening with the hearing aid (1). Akustikmodul nach Anspruch 11,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass mittels der Signalverarbeitungseinheit (15) ein Algorithmus zur Unterdrückung von Rückkopplungen zwischen Hörer (11) und Mikrofon (13) ausführbar ist.Acoustic module according to claim 11,
characterized in that an algorithm for suppressing feedback between the receiver (11) and the microphone (13) can be carried out by means of the signal processing unit (15). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) mit einer Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit (5) verbindbar ist.Acoustic module according to one of Claims 1 to 12,
characterized, that the structural unit (7) can be connected to a hearing aid signal processing unit (5). Akustikmodul nach Anspruch 13,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) über Steckkontakte (26) mit einer Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit (5) verbindbar ist.Acoustic module according to claim 13,
characterized in that the structural unit (7) can be connected to a hearing aid signal processing unit (5) via plug contacts (26). Akustikmodul nach Anspruch 13 oder 14,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass mittels der Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit (5) ein Algorithmus zur Unterdrückung von Rückkopplungen zwischen Hörer (11) und Mikrofon (13) ausführbar ist.Acoustic module according to claim 13 or 14,
characterized in that an algorithm for suppressing feedback between the receiver (11) and the microphone (13) can be executed by means of the hearing aid signal processing unit (5). Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 15,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Baueinheit (7) eine Abschirmung (22) gegen elektromagnetische Felder aufweist.Acoustic module according to one of claims 1 to 15,
characterized in that the structural unit (7) has a shield (22) against electromagnetic fields. Hörhilfsgerät mit einer Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit (5), das eine Ausnehmung zur Aufnahme eines Akustikmoduls nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 16 aufweist.Hearing aid device with a hearing aid device signal processing unit (5) which has a recess for receiving an acoustic module according to one of Claims 1 to 16. Hörhilfsgerät nach Anspruch 17,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass es eine Aufhängung zur Befestigung eines Akustikmoduls aufweist.Hearing aid according to claim 17,
characterized in that it has a suspension for attaching an acoustic module. Hörhilfsgerät (1) mit einer Hörhilfsgerätsignalverarbeitungseinheit (5) und mit einem Akustikmodul nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 16.Hearing aid device (1) with a hearing aid device signal processing unit (5) and with an acoustic module according to one of claims 1 to 16.
EP03013647A 2002-06-27 2003-06-16 Acoustic module for a hearing aid Expired - Lifetime EP1377119B1 (en)

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DE10228826 2002-06-27
DE10228826A DE10228826A1 (en) 2002-06-27 2002-06-27 Acoustic module for a hearing aid

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DK1377119T3 (en) 2008-09-01
EP1377119B1 (en) 2008-04-30
EP1377119A3 (en) 2007-05-02
US20040057592A1 (en) 2004-03-25
ATE394019T1 (en) 2008-05-15
DE10228826A1 (en) 2004-01-29
DE50309721D1 (en) 2008-06-12
US7400738B2 (en) 2008-07-15

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