A digital hearing aid implemented as a smartphone application aims to compensate for sensorineural hearing loss by providing user-configurable processing for background noise suppression and dynamic range compression. The app captures audio using the handset microphone and processes the speech through the headset. Both processing blocks utilize FFT-based analysis-synthesis for real-time operation. A touch-controlled graphical user interface enables users to set and fine-tune parameters interactively and in real-time, thereby improving speech quality and intelligibility for hearing-impaired listeners.
Figure (1) Schematic illustration of the personal communication device with the hearing aid application for noise suppression and dynamic range compensation; (2) Screenshot of the settings screen for (a) noise suppression and (b) dynamic range compression; (3) Example of processing for dynamic range compression: (a) input signal of amplitude modulated tone of 1 kHz, (b) GUI parameters set for constant gain of 12 dB and compression ratio of 2, (c) processed output.
Persons with sensorineural hearing loss face challenges in understanding speech, especially in noisy environments, due to frequency-dependent elevation of hearing thresholds, reduced dynamic range, and abnormal loudness growth. Existing hearing aids often lack real-time noise suppression and interactive user interfaces for fine-tuning processing parameters. This invention addresses these issues by providing a smartphone-based hearing aid with real-time noise suppression and dynamic range compression, controlled via a touch-controlled graphical user interface.
- Real-Time Noise Suppression: This aid uses dynamic quantile tracking and spectral subtraction to reduce background noise efficiently.
- Dynamic Range Compression: It employs sliding-band compression to compensate for frequency-dependent hearing loss and reduced dynamic range.
- Interactive User Interface: It provides a touch-controlled graphical interface for real-time parameter setting and fine-tuning.
- Low Latency: This hearing aid achieves an audio latency of 45 ms, suitable for real-time communication.
The prototype consists of a smartphone with an embedded application that processes digitized speech signals. The analysis-synthesis blocks use 20-ms frames with 75% overlap, and the processing is shared between FFT-based analysis and synthesis. The application provides user interfaces for noise suppression and dynamic range compression, including settings for gain parameters, attack and release rates, and adjustable frequency control.
The patent has been demonstrated by implementation on a LG Nexus 5X running Android 7.1. The audio latency was tested to be 45 milliseconds, which is considered acceptable for face-to-face conversations.
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This technology empowers hearing-impaired individuals by providing a low-cost, highly customizable alternative to traditional hearing aids. It improves speech perception and quality of life by enabling real-time noise suppression and dynamic range adjustment. The interactive user interface enhances user control and satisfaction, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits.
- Hearing Aid Devices: Improves speech perception and intelligibility for hearing-impaired listeners
- Customizable Hearing Solutions: Provides users with the flexibility to adjust settings based on their individual hearing needs
- Low-Cost Hearing Aids: Offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional hearing aid devices
- Remote Configurability: Facilitates remote tuning and evaluation of hearing aid settings
- Mobile Phone-Based Hearing Aids: Integrate with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi headsets with potential integration into video conferencing applications
Geography of IP
Type of IP
201821032763
465425