Acoustically probed over-the-ear hearing assessment devices and methods
Assignee3M Innovative Properties Company
InventorsJames D. BROWN, Jacob H. ELY, Michael G. WURM
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An over-the-ear hearing assessment device and a method for evaluating the performance of over-the-ear hearing devices are described. An exemplary over-the-ear hearing assessment device includes an ear cup defining an interior volume and positionable at least partially over the ear of a user. The ear cup includes a shell, a cushion, and an acoustic port extending from an exterior to the interior volume of the ear cup. The acoustic port is sealably engagable with a microphone.
Claims22
An over-the-ear hearing assessment device, comprising:
- an ear cup defining an interior volume and configured to be positioned at least partially over an ear of a user, the ear cup including a shell, a cushion and an acoustic port extending from an exterior to the interior volume of the ear cup;
- wherein the acoustic port comprises a first mating feature sealingly engagable with a microphone.
A method of evaluating performance of an over-the-ear device, comprising:
- positioning an over-the-ear hearing device in a position of use over at least one ear of a user, the over-the-ear hearing device comprising an ear cup defining an interior volume and comprising a shell, a cushion, and an acoustic port extending from an exterior to the interior volume of the ear cup;
- exposing the hearing device to at least one test sound;
- and
- comparing an interior sound level detected through the acoustic port by a microphone in sealing engagement with the acoustic port and an exterior sound level detected proximate the exterior of the hearing device.
An over-the-ear hearing device cushion, comprising:
- a cellular foam material defining an opening;
- an attachment ring attached to the cellular foam material and having a mating feature configured for replaceable attachment to an ear cup;
- and
- an acoustic port comprising a tube passing through the cellular material.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.