Ear-worn device configured for over-the-counter and prescription use
US11849286B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 10, 2023 |
| Grant date | Dec 19, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 10, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R2225/55
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
According to some embodiments, an ear-worn device, e.g., a hearing aid, is provided that operates both as an over-the-counter device, as well as a prescription device. Features stored on the ear-worn device may be used to amplify, enhance, de-noise, or otherwise process audio signals in a manner desired by the user. Some features, or settings of those features, process audio signals in a manner that is unsafe for users with mild-to-moderate hearing loss and thus are disabled when the ear-worn device is operating as an over-the-counter device. Such features and settings may be enabled after the ear-worn device is fit to the user by a licensed professional.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.