Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods enabling hearing aid fitting by a non-expert consumer at home. The method in one embodiment involves delivering a sequence of test audio signals corresponding to natural sound segments to a non-acoustic input of a programmable hearing device in-situ, while allowing the consumer to adjust fitting parameters based perceptual assessment of hearing device output. The sound segments define a fitting soundscape representing a practical range of sounds within the normal human auditory range, with each sound segment corresponding to one or more fitting parameters of the programmable hearing device. The consumer is instructed to listen to the output of the in-situ hearing device and adjust controls related to corresponding fitting parameters. In one embodiment, the fitting system comprises a personal computer and a handheld device providing calibrated test audio signals and a programming interface.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods enabling hearing aid fitting by a non-expert consumer at home. The method in one embodiment involves delivering a sequence of test audio signals corresponding to natural sound segments to a non-acoustic input of a programmable hearing device in-situ, while allowing the consumer to adjust fitting parameters based perceptual assessment of hearing device output. The sound segments define a fitting soundscape representing a practical range of sounds within the normal human auditory range, with each sound segment corresponding to one or more fitting parameters of the programmable hearing device. The consumer is instructed to listen to the output of the in-situ hearing device and adjust controls related to corresponding fitting parameters. In one embodiment, the fitting system comprises a personal computer and a handheld device providing calibrated test audio signals and a programming interface.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes a programmable hearing device configured to deliver a sequence of outputs in-situ, each output corresponding to a sound segment, wherein the outputs are delivered according to fitting parameters programmed into the programmable hearing device, and a computing device communicatively coupled online to a remote server. The computing device may be configured to receive a consumer input indicative of a subjective assessment of the consumer of each of the sound segments, wherein the consumer input is configured to adjust one or more fitting parameters associated with the output corresponding to the sound segment being assessed, wherein the fitting application is configured to make adjustments to the fitting parameters in accordance with the consumer input.

Abstract: Methods and systems of interactive online fitting of a hearing aid by a non-expert consumer without requiring a clinical setup are disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes an audio generator for delivering test audio signals at predetermined levels to a non-acoustic input of a programmable hearing aid in-situ, and a programming interface for delivering programming signals to the hearing aid. The consumer is instructed to listen to the output of the hearing device in-situ and to interactively adjust fitting parameters according to a subjective assessment of audible output representative of the test audio signal. In one embodiment, the online-based fitting system comprises a personal computer, a handheld device connected to the personal computer, and a fitting application hosted by a server. In one embodiment, remote customer support personnel may communicate with a hearing aid worn by the consumer and interactively control fitting parameters.

Abstract: Examples of systems and methods for profiling the hearing ability of a consumer are disclosed. One example includes a personal computer and a handheld device configured to produce calibrated acoustic output at suprathreshold levels above 20 db HL, and at step levels of 10-20 decibels, and presented test frequency bands across an audiometric frequency range from 400 to 8000Hz. The consumer's minimal audibility levels are registered, and a hearing profile score is presented to indicate hearing ability and hearing aid candidacy. In some embodiments, band-limited natural sounds are presented. Systems and methods disclosed herein, with considerations for noise present in the consumer's environment, allow for rapid calibrated hearing profiling, using a standard personal computer and minimal hardware, thus particularly suited for self-testing outside clinical environments such as at home or the office.

Abstract: A seal assembly for canal hearing devices including a dynamic pressure vent formed and defined by diaphragmatic flaps configured to open in response to a pressure gradient across the diaphragm. The seal assembly comprises a compliant seal element configured to be positioned generally concentrically around the canal hearing device for providing comfortable contact with the ear canal and for acoustically sealing the residual volume of the ear canal. The seal assembly is preferably made of an elastomeric material. The dynamic pressure vent is substantially closed in the normal position to minimize feedback, while momentarily opening inside the ear canal during insertion or removal of the canal hearing device into or from the ear canal.

Abstract: Methods and systems of interactive fitting of a hearing aid by a non-expert person without resorting to a clinical setup are disclosed. The system includes an audio generator for delivering test audio signals at predetermined levels to a non-acoustic input of a programmable hearing aid in-situ. The consumer is instructed to listen to the output of the hearing device in-situ and interactively adjust fitting parameters of the programmable hearing aid according to the perceptual assessment of the hearing aid output in-situ. The output is representative of the test audio signal presented to the non-acoustic input. In one embodiment, the fitting system includes a personal computer, a handheld device communicatively coupled to the personal computer, and a fitting software application. In one embodiment, the fitting system includes an earphone for conducting a hearing evaluation.

Abstract: Examples of modular hearing devices and tools for disengaging a battery module from a main module of the canal hearing device are described. The disengagement tool may be used to switch the modular hearing device to the power OFF condition, or to completely remove the battery module therefrom. According to examples described, the disengagement tool comprises a receptacle cavity shaped to accommodate the lateral end of the modular hearing device, the cavity including features arranged to actuate a handle of the battery module for automatically disengaging the battery module upon insertion of the canal hearing device into the receptacle cavity. Other examples describe features for holding the battery module with the main module in either the ON or OFF positions.

Abstract: A hand held tool for safely inserting a canal hearing device into the ear canal having a medial end configured to simultaneously cradle the lateral end of the canal hearing device and constrain a knob element laterally positioned on the canal hearing device. In a preferred embodiment, the insertion tool comprises a C-shaped cavity for self-centering engagement with a D-shaped lateral end of a CIC device, providing ease of use for hearing impaired individuals. In a preferred embodiment, the insertion tool is substantially formed of a single monolithic structure for improved durability and lower cost of fabrication.

Abstract: Examples of a rechargeable canal hearing device and charging systems are described. An exemplary rechargeable hearing device includes a battery module and a main module adapted to be removably couple together to form a modular canal hearing device assembly configured to be inserted inconspicuously in the ear canal. The modular canal hearing device assembly may include electrical contacts or an inductive charging system to couple charging energy from a charging station. According to examples described, the charging station includes a receptacle cavity shaped to partially accommodate the modular canal hearing device assembly including its handle. The receptacle cavity includes features operable to manipulate the handle as an actuator for automatically disengaging the battery module from the main module upon insertion of the lateral end into the receptacle cavity.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods enabling hearing aid fitting by a non-expert consumer. The method in one embodiment involves delivering a sequence of test audio signals corresponding to natural sound segments to a non-acoustic input of a programmable hearing device in-situ, while allowing the consumer to adjust fitting parameters based perceptual assessment of hearing device output. The sound segments define a fitting soundscape within the normal human auditory range, with each sound segment corresponding to one or more fitting parameters of the programmable hearing device. The consumer is instructed to listen to the output of the in-situ hearing device and adjust controls related to corresponding fitting parameters. In one embodiment, the fitting system comprises a personal computer and a handheld device providing calibrated test audio signals and programming interface. The systems and methods allow home dispensing of hearing devices without requiring specialized instruments.

Abstract: Examples of systems and methods of wireless control of a canal hearing device by applying a magnetic field on the skin at the temporomandibular region of the head are described. An exemplary hearing device may include one or more magnetic sensors for wireless activation by the magnetic end of a remote control device applied inconspicuously to the anterior of the external ear. The activation of a reed switch magnetic sensor within the canal hearing device may be decoded by the electronics of the hearing device to implement a control command, such as volume change, program setting change, ON, or OFF. According to examples described, wireless control of the canal hearing device may be implemented with a natural, comfortable, and inconspicuous hand-arm motion. In some embodiments, multiple reed switches may be arranged to selectively respond to a magnetic field applied within distinct “hot spot” regions, for separate remote control commands.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods enabling hearing aid fitting by a non-expert consumer. The method in one embodiment involves delivering a sequence of test audio signals corresponding to natural sound segments to a non-acoustic input of a programmable hearing device in-situ, while allowing the consumer to adjust fitting parameters based perceptual assessment of hearing device output. The sound segments define a fitting soundscape within the normal human auditory range, with each sound segment corresponding to one or more fitting parameters of the programmable hearing device. The consumer is instructed to listen to the output of the in-situ hearing device and adjust controls related to corresponding fitting parameters. In one embodiment, the fitting system comprises a personal computer and a handheld device providing calibrated test audio signals and programming interface. The systems and methods allow home dispensing of hearing devices without requiring specialized instruments.

Abstract: Methods and systems of interactive fitting of a hearing aid by a non-expert person without resorting to a clinical setup are disclosed. The system includes an audio generator for delivering test audio signals at predetermined levels to a non-acoustic input of a programmable hearing aid in-situ. The consumer is instructed to listen to the output of the hearing device in-situ and interactively adjust fitting parameters of the programmable hearing aid according to the perceptual assessment of the hearing aid output in-situ. The output is representative of the test audio signal presented to the non-acoustic input. In one embodiment, the fitting system includes a personal computer, a handheld device communicatively coupled to the personal computer, and a fitting software application. In one embodiment, the fitting system includes an earphone for conducting a hearing evaluation.

Abstract: Examples of systems and methods for profiling the hearing ability of a consumer are disclosed. One example includes a personal computer and a handheld device configured to produce calibrated acoustic output at suprathreshold levels above 20 db HL, and at step levels of 10-20 decibels, and presented test frequency bands across an audiometric frequency range from 400 to 8000Hz. The consumer's minimal audibility levels are registered, and a hearing profile score is presented to indicate hearing ability and hearing aid candidacy. In some embodiments, band-limited natural sounds are presented. Systems and methods disclosed herein, with considerations for noise present in the consumer's environment, allow for rapid calibrated hearing profiling, using a standard personal computer and minimal hardware, thus particularly suited for self-testing outside clinical environments such as at home or the office.

Abstract: Methods and systems of interactive online fitting of a hearing aid by a non-expert consumer without requiring a clinical setup are disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes an audio generator for delivering test audio signals at predetermined levels to a non-acoustic input of a programmable hearing aid in-situ, and a programming interface for delivering programming signals to the hearing aid. The consumer is instructed to listen to the output of the hearing device in-situ and to interactively adjust fitting parameters according to a subjective assessment of audible output representative of the test audio signal. In one embodiment, the online-based fitting system comprises a personal computer, a handheld device connected to the personal computer, and a fitting application hosted by a server. In one embodiment, remote customer support personnel may communicate with a hearing aid worn by the consumer and interactively control fitting parameters.

Abstract: Examples of a removable earpiece assembly configured for coupling to a canal hearing device using a foil-thin clip are described. The earpiece assembly may be readily removed for replacement when soiled or degraded after use. The earpiece assembly may include a compliant element for contact with the ear canal in a comfortable and safe manner. The earpiece assembly may function as an acoustic seal and/or a retainer for the canal hearing device. The removable earpiece assembly may provide a highly space efficient solution which may be used with miniature canal hearing devices, including a CIC device. In some embodiments, disengagement of the earpiece assembly from the canal hearing device may be accomplished by a side peel motion.

Abstract: A modular canal hearing aid assembly having a main module and a disposable battery module that docks perpendicularly into the main module which surrounds the battery module circumferentially and laterally for secure connection that eliminates inadvertent separation of the modules during removal of the hearing aid assembly from the ear canal. The disposable battery module incorporates battery cell, sound port, and handle, in a unitary structure that is easy to handle and replace as an integrated unit when any of the degradables within are consumed. The disposable battery module also comprises a membrane filter for filtering out earwax and liquids. The perpendicular docking mechanism provides highly space efficient design for comfortable and inconspicuous fit deep in the ear canal.

Abstract: Examples of a rechargeable canal hearing device and charging systems are described. An exemplary rechargeable hearing device includes a battery module and a main module adapted to be removably couple together to form a modular canal hearing device assembly configured to be inserted inconspicuously in the ear canal. The modular canal hearing device assembly may include electrical contacts or an inductive charging system to couple charging energy from a charging station. According to examples described, the charging station includes a receptacle cavity shaped to partially accommodate the modular canal hearing device assembly including its handle. The receptacle cavity includes features operable to manipulate the handle as an actuator for automatically disengaging the battery module from the main module upon insertion of the lateral end into the receptacle cavity.

Abstract: Examples of modular hearing devices and tools for disengaging a battery module from a main module of the canal hearing device are described. The disengagement tool may be used to switch the modular hearing device to the power OFF condition, or to completely remove the battery module therefrom. According to examples described, the disengagement tool comprises a receptacle cavity shaped to accommodate the lateral end of the modular hearing device, the cavity including features arranged to actuate a handle of the battery module for automatically disengaging the battery module upon insertion of the canal hearing device into the receptacle cavity. Other examples describe features for holding the battery module with the main module in either the ON or OFF positions.