Abstract: An implant device for bone anchored hearing aids of the type that include a screw-shaped anchoring element for anchorage in the bone tissue, an abutment sleeve for skin penetration and arranged to be connected to the fixture with a screw connection and a tool for installing the implant into the bone tissue. The fixture and the abutment sleeve are made as a pre-mounted unit that unit is arranged to be installed in one step by means of the tool, which is arranged to cooperate with a tool engaging portion on the abutment sleeve. This arrangement requires fewer pieces to handle for the surgeon during the installation, which means that the surgical procedure can be carried out in a simpler and predetermined way, at the same time as the advantages inherent in a two-piece implant device are maintained.

Abstract: A system and method provides optimization of the strength and orientation of the inductive field of a hearing aid compatible (“HAC”) device, relative to a telecoil in a user's hearing aid. One aspect provides control of the drive level of a transmitting telecoil contained in the HAC device. Other aspects provide steering of the inductive field of the device by using a telecoil array and controlling the amplitude or phase of the signals transmitted by each telecoil in the array to create a composite field. Another aspect provides a plurality of transmitting telecoils arranged such that each telecoil has a different orientation, and a plurality of switches for controlling which transmitting telecoil is active. The user may then select the telecoil having a preferred orientation. Another aspect allows a transmitting telecoil to be physically oriented to an optimal position by embedding the telecoil in a substantially spherical element.

Abstract: A retention apparatus for a semi-implantable hearing aid. In one embodiment, the retention apparatus includes a first surface and a second surface. One of the first and second surfaces includes a first portion and a second portion having a rounded transition therebetween for interfacing with a patient's skin. The rounded transition of the interfacing surface of the retention apparatus functions to distribute pressure resulting from the mutual magnetic attraction between an externally located magnet and an implanted magnet to permit increased magnetic forces therebetween and maintenance of a desired separation between an external coil and implanted coil.

Abstract: A hearing aid is provided with a a programmable, signal processing circuit electrically connecting an input system to an output system, a magnetic field sensor, and a selection circuit connected to the magnetic sensor. The selection circuit may be adapted to control at least one of the input system, output system, and the signal processing circuit, where the selection circuit in conjunction with the magnetic field is configured to select the system or circuit to control based a magnetic field strength received at the magnetic field sensor being one of at least three levels of magnetic field strength.

Abstract: A device to transmit and receive data for remote control of hearing devices has a reduced size achieved by the transmitter coils of the transmitter and the receiver coil of the receiver being wound around a common, shared core. Moreover, a protective capacitor that is used to protect the receiver is at the same time used as a correction capacitor to correct the resonant frequency of a reception oscillator circuit.

Abstract: A method for detecting and automatically selecting an input signal in a hearing aid in which at least two analog input signals are available, comprises the steps of analyzing the analog input signals and detecting, for each analog input signal, whether it comprises a relevant signal, selecting, according to results of said analysis, at least one selected input signal that comprises a relevant signal for further processing, and controlling a signal routing means to selectively route each one of the at least one selected input signals to further processing means. A hearing aid according to the invention comprises means to perform the above method.

Abstract: An improved communication coupling device having a coupler coil with about 125 turns of wire about a core having a hole for use with a hearing aid having a hearing aid coil to accommodate individuals with various degrees of hearing loss to use a sound generation device such as a telephone.

Abstract: A cochlear implant system for a patient's cochlea includes an external processor and an implanted internal unit. The internal unit includes one electrode for inserting in the patient's cochlea, and an internal coil for driving the electrode. The external processor includes a microphone for outputting electrical sound signals in response to ambient or other sounds, an oscillator for generating an electrical analog carrier signal, and a modulator for modulating the carrier signal with the sound signals to generate a modulated signal. An external coil couples magnetically the modulated signal to the internal coil. The analog carrier signal has a frequency in the ultrasonic human range, i.e. greater than 20 kHz, such as 32 kHz or 80 kHz. This sampling at higher frequency results in clearer rendering of sounds, and a higher frequency range of rendered sounds.

Abstract: A hearing aid includes a microphone for providing an electrical signal representative of a received acoustic signal, a means for filtering the electrical signal and a means for automatic switching. Upon detecting a presence of a magnetic field, the means for automatic switching enables the means for filtering to modify a frequency response of the hearing aid to boost a low frequency gain and reduce a high frequency gain. Such filtering can be used with or without a telecoil. A hearing aid including a telecoil is configured with a preamplifier, a inductive element, and a switch control integrated onto a single common circuit board.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hearing improvement device using a multi-coil coupling system and methods for operating such a device. In an embodiment according to the present invention an array microphone may be used to provide highly directional reception. The received audio signal may be filtered, amplified, and converted into a magnetic field for coupling to a telecoil in a conventional hearing aid. Multiple transmit inductors may be used to effectively couple to both in-the-ear and behind-the-ear type hearing aids, and an additional embodiment is disclosed which may be used with an earphone, for users not requiring a hearing aid.

Abstract: At small electric devices, such as in particular medical devices, as e.g. hearing devices, very small electric coils (1) are used. Especially with hearing devices e.g. so-called t-coils are used. Those t-coils are considered and arranged at hearing devices as inductivities with parasitic effects. Due to the very limited space, it is proposed that at very small coils, which are used within the mentioned electric or electronic small devices, the connections of the coil (5, 7) are interlinked directly at the coil (1) over a component (9), an assembly group and/or a circuit. The connections of the coil (5, 7) are arranged on one or more screens or small panels which are firmly arranged on or at the coil comprising so-called pads (6, 8), which connections are interlinked with the use of a capacitor or condenser (9) and onto which pads external connections (11, 13) are directed for the external connecting of the coil.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method (200) and system (100) for selectively coupling a communication unit (110) to a hearing enhancement device (112). The method includes the steps of—in the communication unit—selecting (212) between an acoustic coupling setting and an inductive coupling setting, in response to the selecting step, switching (214) an audio output of the communication unit to an acoustic coupling path (136) or an inductive coupling path (138), and outputting (226) through either the acoustic coupling path or the inductive coupling path an audio signal to the hearing enhancement device.

Abstract: A hearing improvement device using a multi-coil coupling system and methods for operating such a device are disclosed. An embodiment of the present invention may use an array microphone to provide highly directional reception. The received audio signal may be filtered, amplified, and converted into a magnetic field for coupling to the telecoil in a conventional hearing aid. Multiple transmit inductors may be used to effectively couple to both in-the-ear and behind-the-ear type hearing aids, and an additional embodiment is disclosed which may be used with an earphone, for users not requiring a hearing aid.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method of receiving and processing both audio and non-audio signals for use in a hearing aid or other listening device comprising converting electromagnetic radiation to electrical signals, amplifying said electrical signals to produce amplified signals, and filtering the amplified signals in an audio frequency range. The invention extends to a novel integrated amplified telecoil system for carrying out the method.

Abstract: In a hearing aid and method for automatically switching to a telephone mode, for automatically detecting a telephone situation for the wearer given a binaural supply, the difference between the levels of the input signals of the two hearing devices is measured and compared with at least one threshold value. If the difference in levels drops below or exceeds the threshold value, the respective hearing device is switched to the telephone mode.

Abstract: A hearing aid system and method for processing one of an input magnetic signal, having magnetic information, and at least one acoustic input signal having acoustic information. The system comprises an acoustic sensor for providing the input acoustic signal, a magnetic sensor for providing the input magnetic signal, and a magnetic signal detector for selecting one of the input acoustic signal and the input magnetic signal as an information signal. The magnetic signal detector selects the input magnetic signal as the information signal when a magnetic signal detection process has at least partially analyzed the input magnetic signal to determine if audio information may be present. The hearing aid system further comprises a hearing aid module for processing the information signal and providing an output signal to a user of the hearing aid system.

Abstract: A apparatus and method for inner ear implants is provided that generates signal processing stochastic independence activity across the excited neural population. A high rate pulse train can produce random spike patterns in auditory nerve fibers (hereafter “pseudospontaneous activity”) that are statistically similar to those produced by spontaneous activity in the normal auditory nerve. We call this activity “pseudospontaneous”. Varying rates of pseudospontaneous activity can be created by varying the intensity of a fixed amplitude, high rate pulse train stimulus, e.g., 5000 pps. The high rate pulse train can desynchronize the nerve fiber population and can be combined with a data signal in an inner ear implant. The pseudospontaneous activity can enhance neural representation of temporal detail and dynamic range with an inner ear implant such as a cochlear implant. The pseudospontaneous activity can further eliminate a major difference between acoustic-and electrical-derived hearing percepts.

Abstract: A hearing aid includes a first microphone, a second microphone and a telephone coil for alternatively providing an electrical signal representative of a received acoustic signal, a magnetic switch and a plurality of programs for configuring the output from the microphones and the telephone coil. The hearing aid can further include a magnetic switch and a manual switch for selecting between inputs and programs. Upon detecting the presence of a magnetic field, the magnetic switch can automatically switch from the microphones to the telephone coil and change the program configuring the input. When the magnetic field is no longer present, the magnetic switch can automatically switch back to the microphone from the telephone coil and change the program configuring the input back to the program used before the exposure of the magnetic switch to the magnetic field. The manual switch can switch between the plurality of programs and between the microphones and telephone coil.

Abstract: An induction-type loopset is provided that is connectable to a wireless device. The loopset contains a first coil electromagnetically coupled to a t-coil hearing aid and an impedance-matching device coupled to the first coil. The impedance-matching device is responsive to an audio signal from the wireless device. The induction-type loopset is powered from the power source of the wireless device. The power source is responsive to an activation state of the wireless device.

Abstract: Sound input to a microphone is converted into an electrical signal and the electrical signal is amplified by an amplifier. The amplified electrical signal is supplied to a primary coil as an alternating current. Thus, a magnetic field around the primary coil varies with time and a secondary coil generates an induced electromotive force. A vibrating coil is supplied with current generated by the induced electromotive force and thus an induced magnetic field is generated around the vibrating coil. The vibrating coil provided on the surface of an eardrum is vibrated by interaction between the induced magnetic field and a magnetostatic field generated by a permanent magnet.

Abstract: An article of functional clothing comprises a garment; electrically conductive fibers integrated into the garment in a predetermined pattern to form an induction loop around the garment; and an activator unit arranged at a predetermined location on the induction loop to establish electrical connection and thus activate the induction loop, and to provide an interface to at least one portable electronic device.

Abstract: A portable computer with built-in type speakers is disclosed in which a speaker or speaker holder is mounted at inside a main body of a computer and a sounding part of the speaker is installed pointing in a direction toward the ground or support surface where a main body of the computer is placed. Since the speaker is installed at a lower portion of the main body of the computer and the sounding part of the speaker is installed directed toward the ground, a phenomenon that the sound discharge hole is interfered due to an external factor can be prevented and a sound quality is prevented from degradation.

Abstract: Novel non-invasive tactile hearing apparatus and methodology are disclosed which apparatus comprises tactile transmitter contiguously in contact with the skin of the user and, utilizing nerves as opposed to ears, enhances the hearing of those who are hearing-impaired and provides hearing to those who are legally deaf.

Abstract: A hearing aid is provided with a switch that automatically switches the hearing aid input from a microphone input to a voice coil input in the presence of a magnetic field. The magnetic field can be generated by a magnet in a telephone handset.

Abstract: To provide a hearing aid that allows desired sound to be selectively heard and allows unnecessary sound not to be heard, and that can be used with no bars even in a situation like a meeting that requires a conversation with a plurality of persons. The hearing aid includes: a hearing aid body having a hearing aid function and an external microphone signal receiving function; and a separate external microphone, wherein connection and disconnection of communication between the above described hearing aid body and the external microphone are automatically switched, and the above described hearing aid body functions as a normal hearing aid when the communication between the above described hearing aid body and the external microphone is disconnected.

Abstract: A hearing aid is provided with a switch that automatically, non-manually switches at least one of inputs, filters, or programmable parameters in the presence of a magnetic field. The magnetic field can be generated by a magnet in a telephone handset. The hearing aid further is programmed based on time-varying characteristics of the magnetic field. Wireless activation or deactivation of the hearing aid is also described. A magnetic field dependant switch turns the hearing aid on or off.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods are provided for selectively coupling hearing aids to electromagnetic fields. One aspect relates to a hearing aid device. In various embodiments, the hearing aid device includes an induction signal receiver for receiving induction signals, a microphone system for receiving acoustic signals, a hearing aid receiver, and a signal processing circuit. The signal processing circuit includes a proximity sensor for detecting an induction source. The signal processing circuit presents a first signal to the hearing aid receiver that is representative of the acoustic signals. When the induction source is detected, the signal processing circuit presents a second signal to the hearing aid receiver that is representative of the induction signals and transmits a third signal representative of the induction signals from the hearing aid device to a second hearing aid device. Other aspects are provided herein.

Abstract: An audio signal processor modifies audio signal components over the whole of the frequency range DC to greater than 24 kHz. Preferably the signals are in 1-bit form with a sampling rate in the range about 198 kHz to about 2.8 MHz.

Abstract: A piezoelectric speaker is provided which provides a magnetic field to couple the speaker to a hearing aid coil. The magnetic field induces a current in the hearing aid coil as it appears as a time varying magnet field to the coil. The time varying magnetic field is preferably proportional to the movement of a piezoelectric member of the piezoelectric speaker so as to induce a current in the hearing aid coil proportional to this movement. Such a magnetic field may be provided by connecting a magnetic material to the piezoelectric speaker such that motion in the speaker results in motion of the magnetic material, preferably at the position of maximum displacement of the speaker. Thus, the piezoelectric speaker may provide hearing aid compatibility.

Abstract: A hearing aid is provided with a switch that automatically switches the hearing aid input from a microphone input to a voice coil input in the presence of a magnetic field. The magnetic field can be generated by a magnet in a telephone handset.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for monitoring magnetic hearing systems by receiving a magnetic hearing system in an acoustic hearing aid testing device and then detecting the magnetic field output by the magnetic hearing system with a magnetic-to-acoustic testing device when the magnetic hearing system is being tested by the acoustic hearing aid testing device. The magnetic-to-acoustic testing device then develops an acoustic output signal representative of the detected magnetic field which may then be used in traditional acoustic monitoring techniques, such as performing a listening check of the magnetic hearing aid system or performing standard ANSI types of measurements, by the audiologist or tester.

Abstract: A hearing aid includes a microphone for providing an electrical signal representative of a received acoustic signal, a means for filtering the electrical signal and a means for automatic switching. Upon detecting a presence of a magnetic field, the means for automatic switching enables the means for filtering to modify a frequency response of the hearing aid to boost a low frequency gain and reduce a high frequency gain. Such filtering can be used with or without a telecoil. A hearing aid including a telecoil is configured with a preamplifier, a inductive element, and a switch control integrated onto a single common circuit board.

Abstract: A beneficial automatic switching and control of hearing aid devices is based on a respective auditory situation. An acoustic signal and an induction signal are picked up for controlling the hearing aid device. Subsequently, the acoustic signal is evaluated and compared to the induction signal in view of prescribed parameters such as level, carrier frequency, modulation frequency, degree of modulation and/or estimated signal-to-noise ratio. Finally, the hearing aid device is controlled on the basis of the comparison in view of the input signal, individual hearing aid parameters or entire hearing programs.

Abstract: A hearing enhancement system, for co-operation with a conventional hearing aid used in T-switch mode, comprises a microphone (10), an electronics module (22) including an amplifier and a power supply, and an induction loop (12). The induction loop (12) has a small number (typically 10-20) of conductor turns formed as a flexible assembly of a size suitable to be worn around the body as a sash or belt.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method of receiving and processing both audio and non-audio signals for use in a hearing aid or other listening device comprising converting electromagnetic radiation to electrical signals, amplifying said electrical signals to produce amplified signals, and filtering the amplified signals in an audio frequency range. The invention extends to a novel integrated amplified telecoil system for carrying out the method.

Abstract: A hearing aid telephone interconnect system for permitting hearing impaired persons to use conventional telephone instruments employs a T-coupler adapted to hook over the ear of a user of a conventional behind-the-hear, in-the-ear, or eyeglass hearing aid of the type employing an input T-coil. The T-coupler, as well as the telephone base unit and the telephone receiver, are connected to an adaptor box that permits switching the telephone receiver signal between the telephone receiver and the T-coupler to permit use of the telephone by persons with and without hearing impairment. When interfacing the T-coupler to cellular telephones and princess style landline telephones in which the touchtone keypad and receiver form an integrated unit, the adaptor box may be eliminated because switching of the receiver signal is not necessary.

Abstract: A personal radio-based hearing aid system is provided. The hearing aid system interfaces with existing hearing aids using the “T” facility. The system comprises a switchable unidirectional or omnidirectional microphone; a line input; and an FM radio transmitter. The components are housed in a discrete hand-held unit with integral stand, and a FM receiver unit connected to an inductive loop to form a discrete pendant and necklace. The prime use of said system is to give the user greater control over his environment by using the system to compensate for the loss of natural aural focus.

Abstract: An inductive coupling unit which can be easily attached to any hearing instrument with an internal receiving coil to connect the instrument to peripheral electronic devices. The coupling unit includes a head including a head cover, a bobbin disposed inside the head cover, a transmitting coil which is wrapped around the bobbin, and a cylindrical magnet placed in the center of the bobbin. An end of a conductive cable is connected to the transmitting coil and the other end is connected to a plug which makes electrical connection with a peripheral device. The coupling unit is placed on the outer surface of the hearing instrument, and the signals from the peripheral device are induced in the receiving coil of the hearing instrument by the transmitting coil to provide clear, high fidelity transmission.

Abstract: Communication system for users of hearing aids in connection with the use of a mobile telephone (1), and where the hearing aid user (5) wears at least one hearing aid (4). The system comprises a headset (3) coupled to the mobile telephone, said headset comprising a microphone (6) and a tele-coil (10) for communication with the hearing aid.It is hereby avoided that electrical or electromagnetic noise from the mobile telephone penetrates the hearing aid.

Abstract: A battery pack is provided for use with a mobile phone. The battery pack includes audio signal power amplifier circuitry with an inductive coil. The inductive coil boosts the magnetic field strength of the audio signal received by the phone, so that a tele-coil circuit for a hearing aid can be used to pick up the audio signal received by the phone. Consequently, the picked up audio signal can be discerned from the magnetic noise created by the phone. Also, the use of the battery coil allows a tele-coil pick up of the audio signal even if the phone has a speaker that does not generate an appreciable magnetic field.