DESC:EARLIEST PRIORITY DATE:
This Application claims priority from a Provisional patent application filed in India having Patent Application No. 202021053345, filed on December 08, 2020 and titled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING A FEATURE PHONE AS A HEARING AID”
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relates to a hearing assistance system, and more particularly to, a system and a method for providing a customized hearing assistance.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Hearing aid is partly a sound amplifier, and one of its functions is to amplify volume of a sound, so that a person having a problem of weak hearing can hear audio signals like speech and music better. The hearing aid is primarily useful in improving hearing and speech comprehension of people who have hearing loss that results from damage to small sensory cells in inner ear, called hair cells or from issues in the middle ear.
[0003] Hearing loss can be hereditary or can occur as a result of disease, aging, injury or from noise or certain medicines. The hearing aid shapes and modifies sounds so that the person with hearing loss can listen, communicate, and participate more fully in multiple daily activities. Various systems are available which assist in hearing.
[0004] Conventionally, the system, available for hearing is a wearable system that goes around the ear or in the ear and users having difficulty in listening to phone calls, listening to television and audio sources like computer and music systems. Moreover, the conventional system is very expensive due to high purchase cost, recurring cost of batteries and multiple services costs that require specific expertise.
[0005] Further, the conventional system is unable to provide the user with required controls necessary for being able to hear better in diverse sound environments in daily life.
[0006] Moreover, the conventional systems are specifically configured for a single user and are not capable of being simultaneously configured for multiple users.
[0007] Hence, there is a need for an improved system for customized hearing assistance and a method to operate the same and therefore address the aforementioned issues.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0008] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for providing a customized hearing assistance is disclosed. The system includes a hardware processor. The system also includes memory coupled to the hardware processor. The memory comprises a set of program instructions in the form of a plurality of sub-systems and configured to be executed by the hardware processor.
[0009] The plurality of sub-systems includes a hearing loss assessment sub-system configured to determine the hearing loss of at least one user associated with a system based on one or more actions performed by the at least one user in response to the at least one vocal instruction and various audio signals. Further, a hearing loss assessment sub-system is configured to accept as input an audiogram of the hearing loss of at least one user associated with a system.
[0010] The plurality of subsystems includes a user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system. The user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system is configured to generate a customized hearing assistance profile for the at least one user based on the audiogram.
[0011] The plurality of subsystems includes a presets sub-system. The presets sub-system is configured to allow at least one user to select from a set of hearing assistance profiles based on different hearing loss.
[0012] The plurality of sub-systems includes a hearing assistance customization sub-system. The hearing assistance customization sub-system is configured to render one or more customization parameters to the at least one user to further customize hearing assistance profile. The hearing assistance customization sub-system is configured to receive, from the at least one user, a selection of one customized hearing assistance profiles from the one or more customization hearing assistance profiles.
[0013] The plurality of sub-systems includes a microphone. The microphone is configured to receive an audio signal from one or more sources.
[0014] The plurality of sub-systems includes a sound processing sub-system. The sound processing sub-system is configured to process the audio signal based on the selected customized personal hearing assistance profile. The plurality of subsystems also includes an audio transmission sub-system. The audio transmission sub-system is configured to transmit the processed audio signal via one or more mediums to user.
[0015] In accordance with another embodiment, a method for providing a customized hearing assistance is disclosed. The method includes screening and determining the hearing loss of at least one user associated with a system, based on one or more actions performed by the at least one user in response to the at least one vocal instruction and various audio signals. The method also includes accepting as input an audiogram of the hearing loss of at least one user associated with a system. The method also includes generating a customized hearing assistance profile for the at least one user from the at least one user based on the audiogram.
[0016] The method also includes allowing at least one user to select from a set of hearing assistance profiles called presets which are hearing assistance profiles based on different hearing loss.
[0017] The method also includes rendering one or more customization parameters to the at least one user to further customize hearing assistance profile. Further, the method also includes receiving a selection of at least one customized hearing assistance profile from the one or more customization hearing assistance profiles.
[0018] The method also includes receiving an audio signal from one or more sources associated with the at least one user. The method also includes processing the audio signal based on the customized hearing assistance profile. The method also includes transmitting the processed audio signal via one or more mediums to at least one user.
[0019] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will follow by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0020] The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 is an environment diagram in which a system for hearing assistance is deployed, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system for providing a customized hearing assistance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a use case scenario of feature phone that can be used by a user for hearing assistance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0024] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram representing steps involved in a method for providing customized hearing assistance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the system, one or more components of the system may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0026] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present invention. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.
[0027] The terms "comprise", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, additional sub-modules. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0028] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.
[0029] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying figures.
[0030] A computer system (standalone, client or server computer system) configured by an application may constitute a “subsystem” that is configured and operated to perform certain operations. In one embodiment, the “subsystem” may be implemented mechanically or electronically, so a subsystem may comprise dedicated circuitry or logic that is permanently configured (within a special-purpose processor) to perform certain operations. In another embodiment, a “subsystem” may also comprise programmable logic or circuitry (as encompassed within a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor) that is temporarily configured by software to perform certain operations.
[0031] Accordingly, the term “subsystem” should be understood to encompass a tangible entity, be that an entity that is physically constructed permanently configured (hardwired) or temporarily configured (programmed) to operate in a certain manner and/or to perform certain operations described herein.
[0032] FIG. 1 is an environment diagram in which a system 100 for hearing assistance is deployed, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] The environment 100 includes at least one user 102a, 102b and 102c, a feature phone 104, an earphone, or an ear-unit, or a headset 106, a plurality of sound sources 108, such as, but not limited to, a television 108a, a caller 108b on the feature phone 104, a person 108c conversing with any user of the at least one user 102a-102c, and a music system, including a computer, 108d.
[0034] As used herein, the term ‘feature phone’ refers to a mobile phone which incorporates features such as an ability to access Internet and store and play music but lacks an advanced functionality of a smartphone. In an embodiment, the terms ‘feature phone 104', ‘hearing assistance system’ and the system 104 are used interchangeably throughout the specification.
[0035] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, the at least one user 102a-102c has respective one or more customized hearing assistance profiles in the feature phone 104. The feature phone 104 is configured to either generate the customized hearing assistance profile for each user 102a-102c based on an audiogram of each user, or use as per the preference of each user, the selected preset as the customized hearing assistance profile for each user. In such embodiment, the feature phone 104 is configured to enhance the sound received from at least one sound source of the plurality of sound sources based on the selected customized hearing assistance profile, respective to a user, of the at least one user 102a-102c.
[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, the user 102a creates a customized hearing assistance profile with the feature phone 104 by submitting the audiogram test of the user 102a and by further selecting one or more customization parameters for the customized hearing assistance profile. Upon creation of the customized hearing assistance profile of the user 102a, the user 102a presses any pre-defined key for initiating the customized hearing assistance profile. Upon receiving the input from the user 102a, the feature phone 104 activates the customized hearing assistance profile of the user 102a and enhances the sound from any of the plurality of sound sources 108.
[0037] For example, if the user 102a is on a call with the caller 108b then the feature phone 104 enhances the sound of the caller. Therefore, the user 102a receives the hearing assistance without need of managing two different electronic device such as a hearing aid and a phone. The user 102a may also engage with the feature phone 104 via the earphone, or ear-unit, or headset 106 to attend the call with the caller 108b.
[0038] In one particular embodiment, only three users 102a, 102b and 102c are shown in the FIG. 1 for illustration purpose, however a person having ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure is not limited to only three users instead it is applicable to more than three users without deviating from the scope of the invention. The detailed explanation of the hearing assistance function of the feature phone 104 is provided in the FIG. 2.
[0039] Moreover, during operation, each of the three users 102a, 102b and 102c power ON the feature phone 104. Each of the three users 102a, 102b and 102c access the general settings and access the hearing assistance settings. The feature phone 104 shows following settings “status”, “users”, “hearing assessment”, “custom profiles” and “preset profiles”. In the status setting, current status is displayed. The users 102a, 102b and 102c may turn on and off the hearing assistance feature from the status setting.
[0040] In the users setting, the users 102a, 102b and 102c may click on username, view user profile, check the name of the selected hearing assistance profile, may edit and save the user profile. In the hearing assessment settings, the users 102a, 102b and 102c may check whether audiogram exist or not, if audiogram exists then may be edited or deleted, if audiogram does not exist then the hearing assessment settings provide option to take audiogram or input audiogram and once audiogram is generated or inputted then users 102a, 102b and 102c have option to generate custom hearing assistance profile.
[0041] In the custom profile settings, current hearing assistance profile is displayed on selection. The users 102a, 102b and 102c may click on link to see list of customized hearing assistance profiles of users 102a, 102b and 102c, may select any hearing assistance profile and may click on any hearing assistance profile. In the custom profile settings, the users 102a, 102b and 102c may check values for customized parameters, may edit settings of parameters and save as new one, may give a unique name or system 100 will generate a default one or may update the User Profile.
[0042] In the presets profile settings, the users 102a, 102b and 102c may click on link to see list of presets, may select any one presets from the list of presets, may check various parameters for customization, may customize and save presets, may provide name or system 100 will generate a default one, may save customized presets under custom profiles and may update the user Profile.
[0043] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a hearing assistance system 200 for providing a customized hearing assistance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The hearing assistance system 200 includes a hardware processor 204. The hearing assistance system 200 also includes memory 202 coupled to the hardware processor 204. The memory 202 comprises a set of program instructions in the form of a plurality of sub-systems and configured to be executed by the hardware processor 204.
[0044] The hardware processor 204, as used herein, means any type of computational circuit, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing microprocessor, a very long instruction word microprocessor, an explicitly parallel instruction computing microprocessor, a digital signal processor, or any other type of processing circuit, or a combination thereof.
[0045] The memory 202 includes a plurality of subsystems stored in the form of executable program which instructs the hardware processor 204 via bus 208 to perform the method steps.
[0046] The plurality of subsystems has following subsystems: a hearing loss assessment sub-system 212, a user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system 214, a presets sub-system 216, a hearing assistance customization sub-system 218, a sound processing sub-system 220, audio transmission subsystem 222 and a sound receiving sub-system (not shown).
[0047] The hearing assistance system 200 may be implemented on smartphones, tablets, smart watches, personal computers, and the like, whereby the hearing assistance system 200 is capable of implementing the method steps as described in FIG. 4.
[0048] Computer memory elements may include any suitable memory device(s) for storing data and executable program, such as read only memory, random access memory, erasable programmable read only memory, electrically erasable programmable read only memory, hard drive, removable media drive for handling memory cards and the like. Embodiments of the present subject matter may be implemented in conjunction with program modules, including functions, procedures, data structures, and application programs, for performing tasks, or defining abstract data types or low-level hardware contexts. Executable program stored on any of the above-mentioned storage media may be executable by the hardware processor 204.
[0049] In such embodiment, the hardware processors 204 may include, a micro controller, a chip set and the like. The hearing assistance system 200 is configured in the feature phone 104.
[0050] The plurality of subsystems includes a hearing loss assessment sub-system 212. The hearing loss assessment sub-system 212 is configured to screen for hearing loss and determine hearing loss of at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c associated with the feature phone 104. In such embodiment, alternately, the known audiogram can be inputted by at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c. As used herein, “audiogram” refers to a graphic/tabular record of hearing loss, produced by audiometry wherein the hearing loss assessment sub-system generates one or more tones of one or more frequencies to assess a hearing ability of each user of the plurality users 102a-102c.
[0051] The plurality of subsystems also includes a user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system 214. The user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system 214 is configured to generate a customized hearing assistance profile for the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c based on the audiogram. In one embodiment, the user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system 214 may register and store in the hearing assistance system 200, hearing assistance profiles of one or more users of the at least one user 102a-102c on the hearing assistance system 200.
[0052] Further, in one embodiment, each user of the at least one user 102a-102c may be allowed to select any one user personal hearing assistance profile from one or more pre-stored user hearing assistance profiles, presets, on the hearing assistance system 200. In such embodiment, a selected user personal hearing assistance profile from the one or more pre-stored user hearing assistance profiles may instantly configure the hearing assistance system 200 without having to assess the hearing loss or have user input audiograms.
[0053] The plurality of subsystems also includes hearing assistance customization sub-system 218. The hearing assistance customization sub-system 218 is configured to enable further customization of one or more parameters of the hearing assistance profile to the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c for the customized hearing assistance. In such embodiment, the one or more parameters may include, but not limited to, volume, clarity, noise reduction, gains for a band of frequencies or specific frequencies, and the like. In another embodiment, each user of the at least one user 102a-102c may further customize the hearing assistance profile based on the location of the user, and which can be automatically activated based on location. In another embodiment, each user of the at least one user 102a-102c may further name their various customized hearing assistance profiles, and store them in the hearing assistance system 200.
[0054] In another embodiment, each user of the at least one user 102a-102c may select the hearing assistance system 200 for mono-aural use, wherein the mono-aural use refers to when only one ear is used for hearing. In yet another embodiment, each user of the at least one user 102a-102c may select the hearing assistance system 200 for bin-aural use, wherein the bin-aural use refers to when both ears are used for hearing and sound received is processed as per the hearing loss of each ear. In yet another embodiment, each user of the at least one user 102a-102c may select the hearing assistance system 200 for bi-cros use, wherein the bi-cros use refers to when the sound received by the microphone 206 of ear-unit worn in one ear is processed by the processing sub-system and transmitted through a transmission sub-system to the speaker of the ear-unit worn in the other ear. A user who has very little residual hearing in one ear or cannot hear at all in one ear (poor ear), can use the bi-cros feature to hear the sounds coming to the poor ear, in the better ear.
[0055] The hearing assistance customization sub-system 218 is also configured to receive from the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c, a selection of any one customized hearing assistance profile from the one or more hearing assistance profiles. In one embodiment, the hearing assistance customization sub-system 218 may use one or more keys of the feature phone 104 to have select the hearing assistance profile by each user of the at least one user 102a-102c.
[0056] The plurality of subsystems also includes a microphone 206. The microphone 206 is configured to receive an audio signal from one or more sources 108 associated with the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c. The microphone 206 receives a voice or a sound as an audio signal from the plurality of sources 108.
[0057] The microphone 206 can be located within the system 100, within a headset or within an ear-unit. In case of the system 100, the microphone 206 may be an in-built microphone of a phone. In case of a head set, only one microphone may be provided and the microphone may be at body level or ear level and earphones that have only a speaker and no microphone. In case of an earphone only, which is worn in the ear, each unit has only a speaker and no microphone is used. In case of the ear unit, which is worn in the ear, each ear-unit has a microphone and a speaker.
[0058] The plurality of subsystems also includes a sound processing sub-system 220. The sound processing sub-system 220 is configured to process the audio signal based on the selected customized hearing assistance profile.
[0059] In one embodiment, the sound processing sub-system 220 may process the voice or the sound received from the sources 108 based on the hearing loss assessed, or received, by the hearing loss assessment sub-system 212 using one or more algorithms. In such embodiment, the one or more algorithms may include, but not limited to, a microchip algorithm, a chip set algorithm and the like.
[0060] Further, in one embodiment, the sound processing subsystem 220 may also include a shaping and compressing algorithm operable by hardware processors 204. The shaping and compressing algorithms shape and compress the voice or the sound processed by the sound processing sub-system 220. In another embodiment, the sound processing sub-system 220 may cancel or reduce a noise, an echo, feedback and the like. In such embodiment, the plurality of sources 108 may include, but not limited to, an incoming call by the caller 108b, a song, a video, a frequency modulation radio/television and the like.
[0061] The plurality of subsystems also includes an audio transmission sub-system 222. The audio transmission sub-system 222 is configured to transmit the processed audio signal via one or more mediums to the at least one user 102a-102c.
[0062] Further, the plurality of subsystems also includes transmission sub-system operable by the hardware processors 204. The transmission sub-system transmits the sound, or the voice processed by the sound processing sub-system 220 to one or more users 102a-102c. In one embodiment, the transmission sub-system may transmit the sound or voice via one or more mediums. In such embodiment, the one or more mediums may include an earphone, or an ear-unit, or a headset 106, a speaker and the like.
[0063] In an exemplary embodiment, the user 102a may initiate the process of hearing assistance by selecting an option in the feature phone 104 such as pressing a key designated for initiation of the hearing assistance process. The user 102a may be a pre-registered user or may be non-registered user. All registration details are stored in a database 210.
[0064] The feature phone 104 may also ask the user 102a to enter the login credentials before proceeding with the hearing assistance process. Upon successful login of the user 102a, the hearing assistance system 200 may check whether a User Profile exists for the user 102a or not. If the User Profile already exists for the user 102a, the hearing assistance system 200 activates the respective selected customized hearing assistance profile of the user 102a. Alternatively, the hearing assistance system 200 may also render an option to edit the existing User Profile to the user 102a on a display screen of the feature phone 104.
[0065] In such exemplary embodiment, if the user 102a opts for editing the existing profile, the hearing assistance system 200 renders one or more User Profile customization parameters to the user 102a.
[0066] However, if the User Profile does not exist for the user 102a, the hearing assistance system 200 initiates the process of generation of a User Profile. Once a User Profile is created by the user the hearing assistance system 200 initiates the process of generation of a user hearing assistance profile. for the user 102a for the hearing assistance by giving the user the option of generating or inputting audiogram or selecting a profile from the various presets.
[0067] If the user opts to generate an audiogram, then the hearing loss assessment sub-system 212 generates a voice instruction and sends the voice instruction to the transmission sub-system. The transmission sub-system transmits the voice instruction to the user 102a. The voice instruction includes one or more instructions to be followed by the user 102a such as pressing a key, and the like. The user 102a performs actions according to the voice instructions. The hearing loss assessment sub-system 212 then enables generation of audiogram by using the processor to generate various audio signals including pure tone signals of various frequencies at various loudness levels and sends the signals to the transmission sub-system.
[0068] The transmission sub-system transmits the signals to the user 102a. The hearing loss assessment sub-system 212 captures the actions performed by the user 102a with respect to the presented signals, and accordingly generates an audiogram for the user 102a indicating the hearing loss of the user 102a. If the user opts to input an audiogram then the hearing loss assessment sub-system 212 generates a voice instruction and sends the voice instruction to the transmission sub-system.
[0069] The transmission sub-system transmits the voice instruction to the user 102a. The voice instruction includes one or more instructions to be followed by the user 102a such as pressing a key, typing in and/or the like. The user 102a performs actions according to the voice instructions. Further, the hearing loss assessment sub-system 212 sends the generated or keyed inputted audiogram to the user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system 214.
[0070] If the user opts to select from various presets, then the presets sub-system 216 allows the user to select any one of the presets that suits his hearing loss. The hearing assistance system 200 renders, via the hearing assistance customization sub-system 218, one or more customization parameters to the user 102a. In such embodiment, the one or more parameters may include, but not limited to, a volume, clarity, noise reduction, gains for a band of frequencies or specific frequencies, and the like.
[0071] Upon receiving a selection of customized hearing assistance profile from the user, the hearing assistance customization sub-system218 updates the User Profile of the user 102a based on the received customized hearing assistance profile from the user 102a. In another embodiment, each user of the at least one user 102a-102c may further name their various customized hearing assistance profiles and store them in the hearing assistance system 200.The one or more customization parameters may also include default profiles such as a mono-aural use or a bin-aural use, or bi-cros use and the like.
[0072] The customized User Profile comprises at least one of a name of the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c, an age of the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c, a regional language of the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c, the degree of hearing loss of the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c, the audiogram of the at least one user, the user selected customized hearing assistance profile, a user selection of one of a mono-aural use or a bin-aural use, or bi-cros use, of the hearing medium associated with the system 200, and a user input for activating the customized hearing assistance profile.
[0073] In another embodiment, each user of the at least one user 102a-102c may further customize the hearing assistance profile based on the location of the user, and which can be automatically activated based on location. More than one user hearing assistance profile may also be created for the user 102a for example a home profile of the user 102a is applicable when the user 102a is at home, a market profile of the user 102a is applicable when the user 102a is in a marketplace, and the like.
[0074] The User Profile of the user 102a may also include pre-defined user input required to activate the particular User Profile for example when the user presses a number key ‘0’ a home profile of the user 102a is activated. The different customized User Profiles comprises at least one of a name of the user 102a, an age of the user 102a, a regional language of the user 102a, the degree of hearing loss of the user 102a, the audiogram of the user 102a, the user selected customized hearing assistance profile, a user selection of one of a mono-aural use or a bin-aural use , or bi-cros use of the hearing medium associated with the feature phone, and other such related information.
[0075] In an embodiment, when the hearing assistance system 200 receives the pre-defined user input for activation of the respective user hearing assistance profile of the user 102a, the user hearing assistance profile of the user 102a is activated for the hearing assistance. Upon activation of the user hearing assistance profile of the user 102a, the microphone 206 receives the audio signal from at least one source of the plurality sources 108 and sends the received audio signal to the sound processing sub-system 220.
[0076] The sound processing sub-system 220 does shaping and compression of the audio signal to shape the audio signal, manage the high peaks, and perform smoothing action based on the activated user hearing assistance profile of the 102a. In addition, feedback cancellation, echo cancellation, noise reduction or cancellation and other modifications are done to suit the hearing of the user 102a. The suitably modified audio signal is transmitted to the user 102a via the transmission sub-system. It shall be noted that the hearing assistance process as defined with respect to the user 102a is not limited only to the user 102a, it is applicable to the at least one user.
[0077] Further, in one exemplary embodiment, the hearing assistance system 200 may be used to hear the frequency modulation (FM) radio and television or any audio source by connecting the system to the audio source by an audio-line-in cable.
[0078] Further, to hear the television, a FM transmitter may be attached with the television or any audio source. After attaching the FM transmitter, the FM of the hearing assistance system 200 will be tuned to the frequency of the FM transmitter to receive one or more television or any audio source signals. Further, upon receiving the one or more television or any audio source signals by the FM, one or more received FM signals will be processed using the one or more algorithms. Upon processing, one or more processed television or any audio source signals are transmitted to the ear of the one or more users via the one or more mediums.
[0079] In another exemplary embodiment, the hearing assistance system 200 may use a wireless technology for receiving and transmitting one or more audio signals. A wireless receiver-transmitter would be attached to the hearing assistance system 200 through an audio jack connector of the hearing assistance system 200. Further, a wireless signal will be then processed and delivered to the ear of the one or more users wearing ear-units that have capability of wireless transmitting and receiving audio signals to the system.
[0080] FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a use case of the feature phone 104 that can be used by a user (102a, 102b, 102c) for the hearing assistance, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0081] FIG. 3 illustrates that a key 302 of the feature phone 104 is being pressed the user 102a, 102b, 102c for activation of respective customized user hearing assistance profile for hearing assistance.
[0082] The pressing of the key 302 corresponds to pre-defined user input for activation of the customized user hearing assistance profile for hearing assistance and accordingly the hearing assistance system 200 starts processing the audio signals received from sound sources 108 associated with the user 102a, 102b, 102c and transmits suitably modified sound to the user 102a, 102b, 102c based on the customized hearing assistance profile present in the User Profile of the user 102a, 102b, 102c.
[0083] In an additional embodiment, the user 102a, 102b, 102c may further press pre-defined keys on the keypad 304 for adjusting the volume and other customization parameters, such as noise reduction and speech clarity, of the audio signal transmitted by the feature phone 104.
[0084] In an additional or alternate embodiment, a combination of keys may also be used as pre-defined user input for activation of a specific user hearing assistance profile (such as market profile) of the user 102a, 102b, 102c.
[0085] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram representing steps involved in a method 400 providing customized hearing assistance in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0086] At step 402, hearing loss of at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c associated with the system is determined based on one or more actions performed by the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c in response to the at least one vocal instruction and various audio signals. In one aspect of the present embodiment, hearing loss of at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c associated with the system is determined by a hearing loss assessment sub-system 212.
[0087] In an embodiment the audiogram of the at least one user is generated based on transmission, by the transmission sub-system, of vocal instruction and various audio signals to the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c, and generation of the audiogram of the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c based on one or more actions performed by the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c in response to the vocal instruction and various audio signals. In an embodiment the audiogram of the at least one user can also be inputted by the user.
[0088] At step 404, audiogram of the hearing loss of at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c associated with the system is accepted as an input. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the input as audiogram of the hearing loss is accepted by the hearing loss assessment sub-system 212.
[0089] At step 406, a customized hearing assistance profile is generated for the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c based on the based on the audiogram. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the customized hearing assistance profile is generated by the user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system 214.
[0090] At step 408, a hearing assistance profile based on different hearing loss, called presets, is selected by at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c.
[0091] In an embodiment, the customized User Profile comprises at least one of a name of the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c, an age of the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c, a regional language of the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c, the degree of hearing loss of the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c, the audiogram of the at least one user 102a, 102b, 102c, the user selected customized hearing assistance profile, a user selection of one of a mono-aural use or a bin-aural use, or bi-cros use of the hearing medium associated with the system, and a user input for activating the customized hearing assistance profile.
[0092] At step 410, one or more customization parameters to the at least one user 102a, 102b, or 102c for the customized hearing assistance profile are rendered. At step 412, a selection of at least one hearing assistance profiles from the one or more customization hearing assistance profiles is received from the at least one user is received.
[0093] At step 414, an audio signal is received from one or more sources 108 associated with the at least one user (102a, 102b, 102c). In one aspect of the present embodiment, the audio signal is received from one or more sources 108 by the microphone 206.
[0094] At step 416, the audio signal is processed based on the customized hearing assistance profile. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the audio signal is processed based on the customized hearing assistance profile by the sound processing sub-system 220. The processing of the audio signal comprises at least one of shaping, compression, feedback cancellation, echo cancellation, noise reduction/cancellation and other modifications of the audio signal.
[0095] At step 418, the processed audio signal is transmitted via one or more mediums to the at least one user 102a-102c. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the processed audio signal is delivered by an audio transmission sub-system 222.
[0096] Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a technical solution to the problems of hearing aids. The present hearing assistance system 200 provides an efficient system which helps a user to hear an audio signal from multiple sources without using another system and the hearing assistance system 200 enables the user to screen and assess own hearing loss without going to a hearing clinic. In another embodiment, the user will also have an option to select from available pre-sets to hear better. This feature allows the user to instantly configure the feature phone 104 without having to assess hearing loss or input audiograms or going to a hearing clinic. The present hearing assistance system 200 does not require two systems electronic devices or accessories, to hear phone calls or other audio signals.
[0097] Moreover, the hearing assistance system 200 lets the user to control hearing in a real-time based on a sound environment. Further, the hearing assistance system 200 can be updated with improved algorithms via Internet.
[0098] Further, the hearing assistance system 200 can be localised in different regional languages and indicates battery charge, profile of the user visually, which makes the hearing assistance system 200 very interactive and user-friendly. Further, the hearing assistance system 200 are available everywhere unlike the hearing aids which are available in limited hearing clinics and outlets, can be serviced anywhere, available at a much cheaper rate, and is rechargeable, which makes the system accessible and affordable.
[0099] In another embodiment, one hearing assistance system 200 can be used by multiple people with hearing problems.
[0100] The hearing assistance system 200 of the feature phone 104 connected to earphones so the user is perceived to be one of many and listening to music, television or phone calls. Social stigma of being impaired is being avoided.
[0101] In another embodiment, the user data can be collected via service provider services or Internet by the hearing assistance system 200 to provide customer support and to continuously improve user hearing.
[0102] The hearing assistance system 200 may provide multiple customized hearing assistance profiles as well as fixed number of preset profiles. During operation, one of the customized or preset will be selected or any default profile of user will be selected. The selected profile will be used to modify incoming audio signal.
[0103] Users via the hearing assistance system 200 listens better to a phone, television, music, video and audio files. For incoming phone calls, the incoming audio stream will be processed by the chip set algorithms as per the hearing loss of the user, and then delivered to the ear of the user through earphone or ear-unit or headset or through the speaker of the feature phone 104.
[0104] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.
[0105] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependant on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:
1. A system (200) for providing a customized hearing assistance, the system (200) comprising:
a hardware processor (204); and
a memory (202) coupled to the hardware processor (204), wherein the memory (202) comprises a set of program instructions in the form of a plurality of sub-systems, configured to be executed by the hardware processor (204), wherein the plurality of sub-systems comprises:
a hearing loss assessment sub-system (212) configured to:
screen and determine a hearing loss of at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) associated with a system (200) based on one or more actions performed by the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) in response to the at least one vocal instruction and various audio signals; and
accept as input an audiogram of the hearing loss of at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) associated with the system (200);
a user hearing assistance profile generation sub-system (214) configured to generate a customized hearing assistance profile for the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) based on the audiogram;
a presets sub-system (216) configured to allow at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) to select from a set of hearing assistance profiles based on different hearing loss;
a hearing assistance customization sub-system (218) configured to:
render one or more customization parameters to the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) to further customize hearing assistance profile; and
receive, from the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c), a selection of at least one customized hearing assistance profile from the one or more customization hearing assistance profiles;
a microphone (206) configured to receive an audio signal from one or more sources (108) associated with the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c); and
a sound processing sub-system (220) configured to process the audio signal based on the customized personal hearing assistance profile; and
an audio transmission sub-system (222) configured to transmit the processed audio signal via one or more mediums to at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c).
2. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a transmission sub-system configured to transmit at least one vocal instruction to the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c).
3. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processing of the audio signal comprises at least one of shaping, compression, feedback cancellation, echo cancellation, noise reduction or cancellation and other modifications of the audio signal.
4. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the customized User Profile comprises at least one of a name of the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c), an age of the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c), a regional language of the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c), the degree of hearing loss of the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c), the audiogram of the at least one user, the user selected customized hearing assistance profile, a user selection of one of a mono-aural use or a bin-aural use, or a bi-cros use of the hearing medium associated with the system (200), and a user input for activating the customized hearing assistance profile.
5. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sound processing sub-system (220) is configured to receive a user input from the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) for activation of the customized hearing assistance profile.
6. The system (200) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the user input comprises pressing of a pre-defined key of the system (200).
7. The system (200) as clamed in claim 1, wherein the one or more sources (108) comprises at least one of a television sound, a phone call, a sound playing device, or utterances from a person in proximity to the at least user (102a, 102b, or 102c).
8. A method (400) for providing a customized hearing assistance, the method (400) comprising:
screening and determining, by a processor (204), hearing loss of at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) associated with a system (200), based on one or more actions performed by the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) in response to the at least one vocal instruction and various audio signals;
accepting, by the processor (204), as input an audiogram of the hearing loss of at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) associated with the system (200);
generating, by the processor (204), a customized hearing assistance profile for the at least one user from the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) based on the audiogram (406);
allowing, by the processor (204), at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) to select from a set of preset hearing assistance profiles based on different hearing loss (408);
rendering, by the processor (204), one or more customization parameters to the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) for further customize hearing assistance profile (410);
receiving, by the processor (204), a selection of at least one hearing assistance profiles from the one or more customization hearing assistance profiles from the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) (412);
receiving, by a microphone (206) of the system (200), an audio signal from one or more sources (108) associated with the at least one user from the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) (414);
processing, by the processor (204), the audio signal based on the customized hearing assistance profile (416); and
transmitting, by the processor (204), the processed audio signal via one or more mediums to the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) (418).
9. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, further comprising transmitting, by the processor (204), at least one vocal instruction and various audio signals to the at least one user from the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c); and
10. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the processing of the audio signal comprises at least one of shaping, compression, feedback cancellation, echo cancellation, noise reduction or cancellation and other modifications of the audio signal.
11. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the User Profile comprises at least one of a name of the at least one user, an age of the at least one user, a regional language of the at least one user, the degree of hearing loss of the at least one user, the user selected customized hearing assistance profile, a user selection of one of a mono-aural use or a bin-aural use, or a bi-cros use of the hearing medium associated with the system (200), and a user input for activating the customized hearing assistance profile.
12. The method (400) as claimed in claim 8, further comprising receiving a user input from the at least one user from the at least one user (102a, 102b, or 102c) for activation of the customized hearing assistance profile.
13. The method (400) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the user input comprises pressing of a pre-defined key of the system (200).
14. The method (400) as clamed in claim 8, wherein the one or more sources (108) comprises at least one of a television sound, a phone call, a sound playing device, or utterances from a person in proximity to the at least user (102a, 102b, or 102c).

Dated this 03rd day of December 2021


Vidya Bhaskar Singh Nandiyal
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2912)
Agent for applicant