Apparatus and method for simulating a human mastoid
US5771298A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 13, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jun 23, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 13, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R25/30
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method for simulating a human mastoid is disclosed. The apparatus includes a diaphragm having a mass, springiness and damping means 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.