Intelligent Hearing Aid Systems with Integrated AI, IoT, and Advanced Materials
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept integrates acoustic output devices with advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and novel materials to create a more powerful, efficient, and secure hearing aid system, enhancing user experience and improving audio signal quality.
Background and Problem Solved
Conventional hearing aid devices, such as BTE prosthetics, have limitations in terms of audio signal quality, security, and connectivity. The present inventive concept addresses these limitations by integrating AI-powered audio processing, IoT-based audio enhancement, blockchain-based secure data transmission, and advanced materials like graphene for improved antenna performance.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept consists of a BTE prosthetic device with an integrated AI-powered audio processor, configured to optimize audio signal quality and transmit signals to a remote IoT-based audio enhancement device. The system also includes a blockchain-based secure data transmission protocol for secure transmission of audio data to a remote audio processing server. Additionally, the inventive concept incorporates a novel antenna design using graphene-based materials, enhancing electromagnetic signal transmission and reception in the far-field. The system can be further integrated with IoT capabilities, enabling real-time audio signal enhancements and remote monitoring.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The inventive concept introduces a synergistic combination of AI, IoT, blockchain, and advanced materials, which is novel and non-obvious compared to the original patent. The integration of these technologies enables a more powerful, efficient, and secure hearing aid system, providing improved audio signal quality and enhanced user experience.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept may include variations in AI-powered audio processing algorithms, different IoT-based audio enhancement protocols, and alternative advanced materials for antenna design. Additionally, the system could be adapted for use in other hearing prostheses, such as cochlear implants or middle ear implants.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in the hearing aid industry, with potential applications in cochlear implants, middle ear implants, and other hearing prostheses. The target market includes individuals with hearing impairments, audiologists, and hearing aid manufacturers.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Hearing aid and prosthetic device technologies, with expertise in signal processing, wireless communication, and biomedical device design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
An electrical engineer or biomedical device specialist with advanced knowledge of wireless communication, signal processing, materials science, and hearing assistance technologies
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's integration of AI, IoT, and advanced materials represents predictable technological extensions of the source patent's wireless communication and signal processing framework. The core hearing aid functionality remains consistent, with the PTD merely applying known technological improvements to enhance signal transmission and processing capabilities. These variations represent standard evolutionary design choices within the hearing assistance technology domain.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,787 |
|---|---|
| Title | Acoustic output device with antenna |
| Assignee(s) | Cochlear Limited |