Apparatus and method for simulating a human mastoid
US5624377A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 16, 1995 |
| Grant date | Apr 29, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 16, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R2460/13
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus and method for simulating a human mastoid is disclosed. The apparatus includes a diaphragm having a mass, springiness and damping structure sufficient to more closely replicate the impedance of a human head bone and skin overlying the same, than prior art testing devices. In a preferred embodiment, the method includes placing the diaphragm over the central opening of an artificial ear and placing a bone conduction hearing aid on top of the diaphragm. A microphone disposed below the opening measures the sound generated by the vibration. These measurements provides an indication of whether the bone conduction hearing aid is functioning properly. The apparatus and method are not only easier to use and less expensive than prior art devices and methods, they are also as accurate, if not more accurate.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.