Class D hearing aid amplifier
US4592087A · kind A · utility
139Cited by
3References
17Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 8, 1983 |
| Grant date | May 27, 1986 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 8, 2003 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R25/505
- WIPO fieldBasic communication processes
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A subminiature power amplifier for hearing aids configured to be completely self-contained and fit within the user's ear features a Class D amplifier stage. By configuring all signal elements as digital units, circuit balance is readily maintained. A substantial economy of battery drain is achieved while preserving a low value of distortion at low signal levels. Oscillator frequency is governed by a single resistance element. The amplifier and an optional efficiency-improving inductor can be accommodated entirely within the residual volume of the motor chamber of a state-of-the-art earphone housing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.