Abstract: The batteries used to supply voltage in th hearing aid devices are subject to a self-discharge. This is in particular relatively likely given a zinc-air battery. Oxygen that is supplied from outside via the surrounding air is required for the progression of chemical processes in the zinc-air battery. The invention provides a way by which, given a battery inserted in a hearing aid device, a gas exchange between the battery and the surrounding air can be prevented. If the oxygen supply to the battery is stopped, the self-discharge process also comes to a halt. The battery must not therefore be removed from the hearing aid device to prevent the self-discharge, and the hearing aid device also remains ready for use after a long period without use.

Abstract: A voice sound transmitting and receiving unit having an earpiece that is adapted for insertion into the external auditory canal of a user, the earpiece having an expansion module. The voice sound transmitting unit includes a sensor, which may be a bone conduction sensor or an air conduction sensor, or both. Prior to transmission, additional processing, modification, or formatting of sensor output maybe done by the expansion module. Alternatively, all local processing, modification, or formatting of sensor output may be done via the expansion module. The transmission of the voice sound signal may be through a wireless linkage.

Abstract: The invention relates to a communication system comprising a housing adapted for placement behind an ear, the housing comprising a battery compartment which is pivotally mounted on the housing, and which has a recess. The communication system further comprises an communication element, which has a protruding element adapted for engagement with the recess in the battery compartment in such a manner that the communication element may be pivoted together with the battery compartment. Preferably the communication element when the battery compartment is in a closed position may not be displaced in relation to the communication device housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a communication device comprising a housing in which a battery drawer for accommodating a circular battery is mounted pivotally and in which means for preventing unintended removal of the battery are provided. The battery drawer comprises two side elements for preventing gripping of the essentially planar sides of the battery and an aperture intended for insertion of an object for pressing the battery out of the battery drawer. The invention further relates to a battery drawer for use in a communication device.

Abstract: Improved approaches to reducing power consumption in hearing aids are disclosed. According to one aspect, hearing aids (namely, one or more components thereof) are able to be operated in different operational modes—at least one of which is a power saving mode. According to another aspect, intelligent switching between the operational modes is performed to reduce power consumption when appropriate.

Abstract: An interface actuator is shown that guides a data transmission line to a programming interface only when the interface actuator is in a certain desired actuation state. Incorrect insertion of the data transmission line is substantially prohibited, and potential damage to the data transmission line is minimized. Further, in one embodiment, after the data transmission line has been guided into place, programming can be performed while the battery is in place.

Abstract: A low battery detection circuit is disclosed for detecting low battery voltages in hearing aids and other battery operated devices. The low battery detection circuit operates reliably on a small amount of current, which does not significantly increase overall battery drain. An output signal is generated whose amplitude and frequency increase as battery voltage decreases below a predetermined level. The circuit's minimal number of components and output signal characteristics make it particularly applicable as a low battery early warning device for hearing aid devices.

Abstract: For reducing the power consumption of a hearing aid system, an internal or external hearing aid signal source with a signal line for the transmission of a signal to a hearing aid amplifier and a control device for the connection and disconnection of the hearing aid signal source is provided in the hearing aid. A monitoring logic monitors the signal line and supplies a switch signal to the control device, so that the hearing aid signal source can be connected and disconnected on the basis of the switch signal. Each signal source can thus be individually connected and disconnected without employing additional connections from the hearing aid system to the signal source.

Abstract: A modular hearing aid for arrangement in a user's ear comprises a hollow plug (1) adapted to the ear canal and having a generally irregular conical shape and an exterior opening which is covered by a faceplate (2), in which a recess (8) is formed for removable arrangement of a battery (23) as well as an electronic module (4) comprising a microphone part (5), a signal processing part (6) and a sound reproducer (7). The recess (8) comprises a first region (9) for insertion of the battery (23) and a second region (10) coherent with the first region for placing of a socket part (11) of the electronic module (4), and at the edge of the recess (8) the faceplate (2) is formed with engaging means (12-16) for the socket part (11), whereas further parts of the electronic module (4) are placed below the faceplate (2).

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a self-contained, discrete programmable module for a programmable hearing aid, in which the self-contained discrete programmable module includes a plastic housing having a first wall and a second wall, in which the first and second walls define a slot, and the first and second walls having at least one shoulder that is effective in slanting the slot. The present invention further includes a plurality of electrical leads disposed within the plastic housing, such that the electrical leads are integrally formed within the second wall and a third wall of the plastic housing, in which each electrical lead extends into the slot, and each electrical lead is effective in providing a force that retains a programmable cable inserted therein for programming the programmable module.

Abstract: A hearing aid includes a housing and a battery drawer at an end of the housing which is pivotable relative to the housing and includes a protruding portion which, when abutted against a surface, will cause the battery drawer to pivot to an open position so that electric power to the amplifier in the housing is disconnected.

Abstract: A rechargeable hearing aid eliminates the requirement for frequent replacement of a disposable hearing aid battery. The rechargeable hearing aid features inductive recharging using a charging reservoir. In a preferred embodiment, a lithium-ion battery is used with a Completely-In-the-Canal (CIC) hearing aid. The CIC hearing aid is inserted into a reservoir throat of the charging reservoir. In a preferred embodiment a primary coil of the inductive recharger is wound around the reservoir throat, and a secondary coil of the hearing aid is wound around the diameter of the body of the CIC hearing aid, thus providing coupling of the primary and secondary coils that is independent of the rotation of the hearing aid in the charger throat.

Abstract: A microphone buffer circuit being adaptable for connection to a power source is disclosed. The microphone buffer circuit includes an input transistor operably connected between an input and an output for buffering an input signal. The microphone buffer circuit includes a means for reducing power supply noise capable of being coupled to the input transistor wherein the means being operably connected to the input transistor and the power source.

Abstract: For reducing the space requirement for locking systems, a battery compartment and an electronics module are locked by means of a single articulation. For removing the battery, the battery compartment is swiveled open; for unlocking the electronics module, the battery compartment is removed from the plate by pulling the wire spring from the receptacles. The articulation thus has a double function.

Abstract: A hearing instrument and external fitting device for adjusting, or “trimming”, the circuit characteristics of a hearing instrument. The external fitting device includes a set of external trimmer elements which are connected into the hearing instrument internal circuitry, where the values of the trimmer elements are periodically sampled by the instrument's circuitry when the fitting device is connected to the instrument, the values of the trimmer elements being stored in an internal memory to control the characteristics of the hearing instrument. When a satisfactory set of adjustment values are achieved, the fitting device is disconnected from the hearing instrument until required for further adjustments. A fitting card is associated with each instrument and identifies the instrument or user of the instrument and may be fitted to the fitting device to record the settings of the trimmer elements.

Abstract: The dimensions of a hearing instrument can be minimized by positioning the internal components in a configuration that occupies the least amount of volume. A pocket for situating the microphone on a diagonal aids in decreasing the required size of the instrument's shell and facilitates assembly.

Abstract: A space-saving electrical contact assembly for a hearing instrument faceplate can be fashioned by physically conforming the configuration of individual contacts to the battery and the battery door in the faceplate. By providing each contact of the assembly with an interconnected terminal, the wiring of the assembly is reduced.

Abstract: A storage case that detects and indicates presence of oscillating or quiescent activity of hearing aids is disclosed. Within the storage case, there is a transducer coupled to a logic circuit. The logic circuit is further coupled to one or more visual cues. The transducer picks up any sounds within the storage case and converts the sounds into electrical signals. The logic circuit receives the electrical signals and activates a visual cue that alerts the user if the logic circuit interprets at least one of the electrical signals to be from an oscillating or quiescent activity of the hearing aid.

Abstract: A hearing device has a shell, an electric/acoustic transducer, and electronics within the shell. One end of the shell constitutes the acoustic output to the ear and further includes a compartment at the other end of the shell. A module is removably introduced into the compartment and includes a battery and a voltage regulator. The voltage regulator has an input operationally connected to the battery and has an output in electric contact with the electronics.

Abstract: A hearing aid comprising a housing with a connector enabling an external device to be connected thereto is provided. The connector includes a set of closely spaced electrical terminals operatively connected to at least one internal hearing aid component. The hearing aid also comprises detecting means adapted for determining whether an external device is connected or unconnected to the hearing aid, and the hearing aid is adapted for keeping the set of closely spaced electrical terminals at a substantially equal electrical potential during at least a part of the time periods wherein an external device is unconnected. A method of operating a hearing aid and a program comprising code adapted for operating a hearing aid is also provided.

Abstract: A programming interface for programming hearing aids is in PCMCIA compact flash format and meets the requirements of IEC 60601-1, type BF and UL 2601-1 when connected to a desktop or laptop computer.

Abstract: A battery holder for a microelectronic device, said holder comprising a frame having a substantially circular base and a curved portion with an upper and a lower surface. The curved portion encloses at least part of the substantially circular base, and the frame is adapted to hold a battery. A first conductor extends from a first part of the curved portion to a second part of the curved portion, and wherein a first end of the first conductor is positioned within the first part of the curved portion and wherein a second end of the first conductor is positioned within the second part of the curved portion. A movable member is positioned on the curved portion and adapted to provide an electrical connection between the second end of the first conductor and a point of contact within the second part of the curved portion.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a modular hearing aid as well as the resultant hearing aid is provided. The provided hearing aid is comprised of a shell and a faceplate assembly. The shell may be formed of a soft, flexible material or a rigid or semi-rigid material. The faceplate assembly is comprised of at least a pair of pieces, preferably an upper faceplate piece and a lower faceplate piece, and can be fabricated from a variety of different materials. During assembly, a portion of the shell is captured within the faceplate assembly, for example between the upper and lower faceplate pieces. The individual faceplate pieces can be attached to one another using any of a variety of techniques, including miniature screws, interlocking and complementary members, fastening clips or other means. The faceplate assembly can also be coupled together using a permanent or semi-permanent means, although the use of a permanent means limits the ease with which the device can be disassembled.

Abstract: Hearing aid for placement in an ear includes a carrier, an enclosure, a microphone, a battery and a speaker. The carrier carries the battery and the enclosure has a microphone entrance. The enclosure envelopes the microphone, the battery and the speaker and is connected to the carrier. The enclosure has a first and a second end, the first end being directed to the outside and the second end being directed into the ear when placed in the ear. The carrier is situated between the first and the second end and the enclosure decreases in diameter from the carrier towards the first end.

Abstract: A miniature battery assembly for canal hearing devices is constructed of a cylindrically elongated metal shell having oval cross section. The elongated oval design offers superior volumetric utilization and energy capacity in the ear canal when compared with conventional button cell designs. In a preferred embodiment, the battery assembly is comprised of an elongated anode can with an inward bottom ledge holding a cathode cup. The anode can is tapered on the top and oval in cross section for fitting optimally in the bony part of the ear canal. The hearing device incorporating the battery assembly is disposable to be discarded upon depletion of the electrical energy of the battery assembly.

Abstract: A hearing device is provided with an electrical supply unit and an electrical to mechanical converter incorporated in a first module. An acoustical to electrical converter and a signal processing unit are incorporated in a second module. The first and second modules are assembled so that they can be easily disassembled.

Abstract: A hearing device system includes a hearing device having a normally open (i.e., doorless) receptacle cavity configured to accept a battery assembly for powering the hearing device. The battery assembly has an insertable segment and protruding segment, the protruding segment remains outside of the receptacle cavity of the hearing device when the insertable segment of the battery assembly is operably seated (i.e., firmly engaged, with electrical connection established to the hearing device) within the receptacle cavity. A battery dispenser holds one or more new battery assemblies for direct transfer of one of the held battery assemblies into the receptacle cavity of the hearing device to replace a depleted battery assembly when the latter is removed from the receptacle cavity.

Abstract: A behind-the-ear hearing aid has a curved, hook-shaped shell that extends along a curved longitudinal axis of the hearing aid and into which are integrated transducers and electronics. A first end of the shell includes an acoustic output device to the ear. The shell defines a compartment located at a second end of the shell. The compartment is adapted to receive a battery, and has a cylinder axis that is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the hearing aid. The hearing aid includes an attachment module that includes a first portion having an outer cross-sectional contour corresponding to the outer cross-sectional contour of the hearing aid and a second portion having a reduced length of the outer cross-sectional contour, and the module is fitted with a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery is provided in the first portion and a voltage regulator is provided in the second portion.

Abstract: A modular hearing aid includes, in combination, a faceplate for covering an opening of a hearing aid plug and an electronic module, the electronic module including a socket part, a signal processing part and a sound reproducer part which is below the faceplate and is connected with said socket part via flexible wire connections, with the faceplate including a recess having a first region for the insertion of a battery and a second region contiguous with the first region for receiving the socket part, the faceplate being formed at an edge of the recess with integral engagement structure for the socket part, and the recess being formed such that after removal of the battery and the socket part, the first and second regions together allow passage of the signal processing part and the sound reproducer part.

Abstract: A hearing device comprises a housing having an outer wall and a compartment adapted to receive a battery. The battery forms a portion of the housing outer wall when engaged with the compartment. The hearing device compartment also includes an integrated switch comprising a contact adapted to engage the battery in response to a deformation of the hearing device, and a conformal tip adapted to engage with the housing such that the conformal tip surrounds the compartment and the engaged battery.

Abstract: A digital hearing aid comprises a microphone (2), an output transducer (3), a digital signal processor (5) interconnected between the microphone and the output transducer, and a power source (7) including a standard hearing aid battery for the supply of operation voltage for the digital signal processor. At least one of the integrated circuit signal processing parts is designed to operate at a reduced unstabilized operation voltage substantially below a nominal voltage of the battery. A switched step-down voltage converter is connected between the power source and such signal processing parts for lowering the battery voltage to provide the reduced operation voltage.

Abstract: A hearing aid is provided having a capacitor with a large capacitance coupled in parallel with the energy source for transient current supply. The operating period of the battery is prolonged compared to prior art digital hearing aids. Further, the smaller variations in supply voltage lead to less distortion of the output signal of the hearing aid signal processor. In a hearing aid with a telecoil, a well defined current path for the current transients generating the high magnetic fields picked up by the telecoil is established. This facilitates the design of a compensating current path that is substantially independent of battery type and position.

Abstract: In a hearing aid, a communication unit that is a transmission and/or reception unit detachably connected to the hearing aid is provided for wireless programming. This unit preferably comprises the external shape of a hearing aid battery and can be introduced into the battery compartment of the hearing aid for programming. As a result, components needed for the wireless programming of the hearing aid are only connected to the hearing aid during programming.

Abstract: An improved earring-style hearing aid that includes an ear mold that renders the majority of the ear canal unfilled, and that delivers to the eardrum amplified sound that is received through a breakaway connector from a hearing aid circuit that is attached to the ear lobe and that can be configured using one of many different covers to take the appearance of one of many different earrings.

Abstract: A low battery detection circuit is disclosed for detecting low battery voltages in hearing aids and other battery operated devices. The low battery detection circuit operates reliably on a small amount of current, which does not significantly increase overall battery drain. An output signal is generated whose amplitude and frequency increase as battery voltage decreases below a predetermined level. The circuit's minimal number of components and output signal characteristics make it particularly applicable as a low battery early warning device for hearing aid devices.

Abstract: A generic canal hearing device is adapted to be positioned deeply and completely within the ear canal, and particularly suited for extended wear. The device includes a removable battery assembly with an outer surface for substantial direct exposure to the environment of the ear canal. The battery assembly is detachably connectable to a microphone section of a universal core assembly, and when connected together, they form a lateral section for positioning comfortably in the cartilaginous part of the canal. The lateral section has an oval cross-sectional perimeter and is substantially cylindrical and elongated along the longitudinal axis of the device corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the ear canal.

Abstract: A hearing aid includes a microphone, signal processing circuitry, receiver and integral battery all mounted in a casing. The battery may be a metal-air device. The battery may be activated by removing a tape which blocks air holes on the battery or, if the battery is sealed into the hearing aid, air-vent holes on the hearing aid. The hearing aid may also include an air-blocking mechanism which is activated when the hearing aid is inserted in the user's ear and deactivated when the hearing aid is removed. The assembled hearing aid may also be packaged in non-permeable packaging material to extinguish battery activity. The hearing aid may also include an electronic switch which monitors the battery potential to disconnect the battery from the hearing aid electronics when the battery is deprived of oxygen and which connects the battery to the electronics when oxygen is provided to the battery.

Abstract: A circuit board assembly for a hearing device comprises a substrate including a component mounting region that can be folded into a desired orientation. A circuit board assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention can preferably be folded without affecting the performance characteristics of the substrate or any of the components mounted to the substrate. In a preferred embodiment a circuit board assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention comprises a first component mounting region adapted to receive a hearing device microphone, a second component mounting region adapted to receive an electronic circuit and a circuit capacitor, a third component mounting region adapted to receive a contact pad, and a fourth component mounting region adapted to receive a programming pad. When folded in accordance with a preferred configuration, the flexible circuit board assembly can be readily inserted into a hearing device housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for matching binaurally the transmission characteristics of a consisting of hearing-aid portions (4,5) one for the left and the other for the right ear, using a data processing apparatus (1) connectable to a pointer device (3) and a display unit (2), the pointer device (3) being used to change parameters of the transmission characteristics. The method of the invention is characterized in the the parameters of one of the hearing-aid portions (4, 5) can be adjusted just as well independently of the parameters of the other hearing-aid portion (5, 4) as in that the parameters of both hearing-aid portions (4,5) can be adjusted simultaneously.

Abstract: A modular hearing aid for arrangement in a user's ear comprises a hollow plug (1) adapted to the ear canal and having a generally irregular conical shape and an exterior opening which is covered by a faceplate (2), in which a recess (8) is formed for removable arrangement of a battery (23) as well as an electronic module (4) comprising a microphone part (5), a signal processing part (6) and a sound reproducer (7). The recess (8) comprises a first region (9) for insertion of the battery (23) and a second region (10) coherent with the first region for placing of a socket part (11) of the electronic module (4), and at the edge of the recess (8) the faceplate (2) is formed with engaging means (12-16) for the socket part (11), whereas further parts of the electronic module (4) are placed below the faceplate (2).

Abstract: An improved hearing aid programming system with a host computer for providing at least one hearing aid program and having at least one personal computer memory card international association (PCMCIA) defined port in combination with a PCMCIA card inserted in the port and arranged for interacting with the host computer for controlling programming of a hearing aid. The host computer provides power and ground to the PCMCIA card and provides for downloading the hearing aid programming software to the PCMCIA card upon initialization. A microprocessor on the PCMCIA card executes the programming software. A hearing aid interface for adjusting voltage levels and impedance levels is adapted for coupling signals to the hearing aid being programmed.

Abstract: A power management system for a power supply (43) providing power to electrical equipment, such as a totally implantable cochlear implant (40). The power supply (43) can comprise a first rechargeable battery and at least one further rechargeable battery that each independently provide power to the implant (40) through a switching means. The management system comprises a management means for controlling the operation of the switching means to place the system in a first state where the implant (40) can draw power from only the first battery or at least in a further state where the implant (40) can draw power from only said at least one further battery.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved method of storing data within a persistent data space of a hearing aid and a hearing aid utilizing the improved storage methodology. The invention prevents that erroneous or corrupted data are written into and/or loaded from the persistent data space due to unexpected and uncontrollable power supply failures in the hearing aid.

Abstract: An electronic signal processing system, including a microphone section and an integral battery, may be assembled with a receiver section to form a three section hearing-aid. The shape of the outer shell of an integral battery may approximate the shape of an ear canal when attached to the other two sections. An integral (sealed-in) battery with such an unusual shape may have a higher capacity battery than those of standard insertable/removable batteries. The integral battery (e.g. a zinc-air battery) may be tested for leakage before being assembled to the other sections of the hearing-aid. To preserve battery shelf-life a “pull” tab may be placed over vents in the integral battery. To activate the battery, the “pull” tab may be removed. Conducting strips may be formed on the “pull” tab permitting the circuits, battery and components of the hearing-aid to be tested after assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implantable medical device having an hermetically tight housing, which houses an electronic unit as well as an electrochemical energy storage for supplying the medical device with current. The energy storage is arranged directly within the hermetically tight housing without having a separate housing.

Abstract: The invention relates to an implantable, hermetically sealed housing which houses components of an implantable medical device, wherein said housing comprises an hermetically tight separation wall which divides the housing into a first chamber for housing a storage for electrical energy for supplying electric current to the medical device and a second chamber for housing said electronic unit. The invention further relates to processes for producing such a housing.

Abstract: Improved approaches to reducing power consumption in hearing aids are disclosed. According to one aspect, hearing aids (namely, one or more components thereof) are able to be operated in different operational modes—at least one of which is a power saving mode. According to another aspect, intelligent switching between the operational modes is performed to reduce power consumption when appropriate.

Abstract: An apparatus for programming a hearing aid comprises an indexed pill that substantially replicates the dimensions of a hearing aid battery and battery compartment door. The apparatus, comprises two power contacts on opposite exterior sides of the indexed pill; and two programming contacts on opposite exterior sides of the indexed pill.

Abstract: A system for rehabilitation of a hearing disorder which comprises at least one acoustic sensor for picking up an acoustic signal and converting it into an electrical audio signal, an electronic signal processing unit for audio signal processing and amplification, an electrical power supply unit which supplies individual components of the system with current, and an actuator arrangement which is provided with one or more electroacoustic, electromechanical or purely electrical output-side actuators or any combination of these actuators for stimulation of damaged hearing, wherein the signal processing unit has a speech analysis and recognition module and a speech synthesis module.

Abstract: A hearing aid (1) having a case (3) enclosing its electrical components, which includes at least one rechargeable battery (10). The rechargeable battery is a planar solid-state rechargeable battery or a foil rechargeable battery.