HörTech - Centre of Competence for Hearing Aid Technology

Text:

Network Profile

The Competence Center HörTech aspires to an extensive improvement of the system technology of hearing instruments. Therefore, the latest knowledge about the audiology of hearing disorders, digital procedures of signal processing for hearing instruments (software) and technological innovations of the hardware in order to improve products, the fitting as well as rehabilitation strategies, are developed. Despite the great number of persons with hearing disorders and the significant consequences of this handicap in communicating the acceptance and the success, which can be achieved in the present treatment with hearing-aids is still very limited. A lot of the sold and fitted hearing instruments are not used or only in a very small extent ("drawer instruments").
The latest innovation in audiology and signal processing are in principle usable by the wide introduction of the digital technology of hearing-aids, however, this knowledge could not be implemented consequently up to now. The great specialization of work of each institute in research and production can be mentioned as a main reason for this. So, e.g. the increasing minimization makes it possible to get computer-controlled In-The-Ear instruments, nevertheless the software (algorithms) for an optimal use of these resources has to be as improved as the fitting to the individual patient and the assessment, in what way the patient profits by the innovative hearing technology.

Although numerous projects are carried out in the framework of bilateral cooperations, a sufficient feedback from the persons affected to the system developer of hearing technologies does not take part due to structural and methodical deficits. A concerted cooperation of all institutes involved in this process, from the basic research to the production up to the fitting of hearing-aids, is necessary to solve this innovation blockade. Therefore, national leading representatives of all professions and institutes, involved in research, development, production and marketing of hearing-aids are now coordinated in an association to develop the system technology of a future (hi-fi) hearing instrument and to assess, optimize and realize on a long-term basis the strategies regarding treatment and rehabilitation with hearing-aids also from a socio-economical point of view.

Protagonists

Service spectrum

The aims are pursued due to six projects:

Optimization of hearing instrument technology ("HIFI hearing instrument"): Hardware-based approaches for optimizing the transfer quality of hearing instruments
Assessment and Models of Impaired Auditory signal processing functions as a basis for hearing-aid algorithms and fitting rules
Development of Algorithms for Digital Hearing Instruments
Cost/Benefit relation for technological achievements in new hearing aid systems
Optimized Procedures for Hearing Instrument Fitting and Verification (FITTING)
Cost/benefit analysis of services provided during the provision and rehabilitation with hearing aids

The Competence Centre (which is established at the moment) is coordinated in cooperation with the Hörzentrum Oldenburg, which is predestined for the function of mediator as an institute at the university between university, clinic and industrial customers, and which can act - as a national unique institution - as a model for such an institute. Oldenburg is the local center of the competence centre to which nearly all partners have a regional relation. The superordinated structural aim of development is to have a center unique in Germany and Europe, which works on and solves, based on the know-how of leading institutes by specific cooperation, the present interesting and the innovation retarding questions regarding the treatment and rehabilitation with hearing-aids. It should furthermore be an advice center for the whole branch, transferring also system technology.

International activities

HörTech is a partner in the international Hearcom project, which hopes to enable the hearing-impaired to participate fully in the modern communication society by taking down some of the barriers to auditive communication. Its objectives include:

hearing-ability screening tests via Internet or telephone,
Europe-wide standardized audiological measurement techniques,
quantification and improvement of room acoustics to accommodate speech communication with the hearing-impaired,
Web-based tools to assist with the dispensing of hearing aids and the rehabilitation of patients,
an Internet portal for hearing-impaired persons and specialists.

Every two years, the Center of Competence holds an international forum for hearingaid developers in Oldenburg. HörTech also organizes twice-yearly meetings of the development managers of the worlds 6 largest hearing-aid manufacturers, to discuss the implementation of pre-competitive projects.

Research and development

Project I: Hardware

Improving hearing-aid technology as a means of raising the acceptance of hearing systems

Support from: BMBF

Project members:

Siemens Audiologische Technik,
Hörzentrum Oldenburg,
Academy for Hearing Aid Acoustics, Lübeck,
University of Oldenburg,
University of Applied Sciences
Oldenburg/Ostfriesland/Wilhelmshaven,
KIND Hörgeräte,
AudioService GmbH,
Dreve Otoplastik GmbH

This project carries out important groundwork aimed at improving hearing-aid technology, following new approaches to signal processing and the design of hardware systems. At the same time, it also studies the non-technical aspects of hearing systems. The ultimate goal is not only to establish a theoretical base for enhanced technology but also to develop demonstrator prototypes and evaluate their acceptance and utility in practical trials involving volunteer subjects from the target user groups.

Project II: Models

Model-based approaches to the improvement of hearing diagnostics and the fitting of hearing devices

Support from: BMBF

Project members:

University of Oldenburg,
Evangelisches Krankenhaus Oldenburg,
University of Giessen,
Hörzentrum Oldenburg,
Siemens Audiologische Technik,
Kind Hörgeräte

The audiological measurement techniques offered by HörTech (e.g. the Oldenburg sentence test) provide a rapid and accurate means of identifying the problems encountered when background noise and nearby conversations impinge on the listeners attention from different directions (e.g. at social gatherings). This can be an important factor in finding the ideal settings for a hearing device. The audiological tests used in the past were marred by certain shortcomings, such as an unrealistic reproduction of background noise. The members of the HörTech Models project have developed new methods that permit a much more natural emulation of interference situations.

Project III: Algorithms

Development of algorithms for speech processing in digital devices to compensate for hearing impairments

Support from: BMBF

Project members:

University of Oldenburg,
Siemens Audiologische Technik,
University of Giessen,
University of Applied Sciences
Oldenburg/Ostfriesland/Wilhelmshaven,
Hörzentrum Oldenburg

The potential of digital signal processing has not yet been fully exploited. Many of the commonly employed signal processing strategies, or algorithms, are merely slightly modified versions of the processesemployed in analog hearing devices. The Algorithms project addresses this subject by setting the objective of improving the performance of hearing devices used in the rehabilitation of hearing disabilities.

A common problem encountered by persons with hearing difficulties is distinguishing voices in a noisy environment (the so-called cocktail-party effect). We have decided to concentrate part of our work on this problem because of the limited success of existing algorithms used to suppress noise interference. We are focusing particularly on the possible use of binaural hearing models as a means of noise suppression.

Project IV: Efficiency

Cost-benefit ratio of hearing-aid components used in modern hearing systems

Support from: BMBF

Project members:

Hörzentrum Oldenburg,
University of Giessen,
Kind Hörgeräte,
University of Oldenburg,
Siemens Audiologische Technik,
University of Applied Sciences
Oldenburg/Ostfriesland/Wilhelmshaven

The main question addressed by this project is: What are the technical and audiological advantages of the components used in hearing systems for persons with hearing impairments? This work involves developing efficient analysis tools for highfidelity hearing systems and evaluating specific products, so that their performance can be rated and the results used to develop new, improved products.

A further project focus is assessing the importance of specific, non-technical elements in patient care (e.g. fitting, after-sales service, readjustment, aftercare) and their influence on the choice of hearing aid, the fitting procedure, the satisfaction of the wearer, and the patients decision whether or not to wear a hearing aid. In order to obtain reliable information, a broadly based study of several months duration is being conducted by means of telephone inquiries screening diagnosed patients contemplating the possible fitting of a hearing aid.

Region

The administrative division Weser-Ems is in the North-West of Germany, in the near of the economical center Bremen, as well as the Netherlands and therefore in the center of Europe. The administrative division is about 110 km wide from the German-Dutch border in the West and a line, which runs from the Unterweser and the Western border of the town Bremen up to the Dümmer. The division extends with a length of about 200 km from the North Sea with marshlands, bogs and sandy heathlands - which is partly agriculturally used - up to the densely populated hilly country of Osnabrück with the range hills of the Wiehengebirge and the Teutoburger Wald.

Contact

Speaker of the Competence Centre HörTech:
Prof. Dr. Dr. Birger Kollmeier
Workgroup Medical Physics, University Oldenburg
Carl-von-Ossietzky Str. 9-11
D - 26111 Oldenburg
Phone: +49 441 798 - 5470
Fax: +49 441 798 - 3902

Organization of Competence Centre HörTech:
Dr. Corinna Pelz
Kompetenzzentrum HörTech gGmbH
Marie-Curie-Str. 2
D - 26129 Oldenburg
Tel: +49 441 2172 203
Fax: +49 441 2172 350
E-Mail: C.Pelz@Hoertech.de

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HörTech - Centre of Competence for Hearing Aid Technology

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The initiative The topics The regions The networks HörTech Oldenburg The service	Die Netzwerke
	HörTech - Centre of Competence for Hearing Aid Technology Text: Network Profile The Competence Center HörTech aspires to an extensive improvement of the system technology of hearing instruments. Therefore, the latest knowledge about the audiology of hearing disorders, digital procedures of signal processing for hearing instruments (software) and technological innovations of the hardware in order to improve products, the fitting as well as rehabilitation strategies, are developed. Despite the great number of persons with hearing disorders and the significant consequences of this handicap in communicating the acceptance and the success, which can be achieved in the present treatment with hearing-aids is still very limited. A lot of the sold and fitted hearing instruments are not used or only in a very small extent ("drawer instruments"). The latest innovation in audiology and signal processing are in principle usable by the wide introduction of the digital technology of hearing-aids, however, this knowledge could not be implemented consequently up to now. The great specialization of work of each institute in research and production can be mentioned as a main reason for this. So, e.g. the increasing minimization makes it possible to get computer-controlled In-The-Ear instruments, nevertheless the software (algorithms) for an optimal use of these resources has to be as improved as the fitting to the individual patient and the assessment, in what way the patient profits by the innovative hearing technology. Although numerous projects are carried out in the framework of bilateral cooperations, a sufficient feedback from the persons affected to the system developer of hearing technologies does not take part due to structural and methodical deficits. A concerted cooperation of all institutes involved in this process, from the basic research to the production up to the fitting of hearing-aids, is necessary to solve this innovation blockade. Therefore, national leading representatives of all professions and institutes, involved in research, development, production and marketing of hearing-aids are now coordinated in an association to develop the system technology of a future (hi-fi) hearing instrument and to assess, optimize and realize on a long-term basis the strategies regarding treatment and rehabilitation with hearing-aids also from a socio-economical point of view. Protagonists Service spectrum The aims are pursued due to six projects: Optimization of hearing instrument technology ("HIFI hearing instrument"): Hardware-based approaches for optimizing the transfer quality of hearing instruments Assessment and Models of Impaired Auditory signal processing functions as a basis for hearing-aid algorithms and fitting rules Development of Algorithms for Digital Hearing Instruments Cost/Benefit relation for technological achievements in new hearing aid systems Optimized Procedures for Hearing Instrument Fitting and Verification (FITTING) Cost/benefit analysis of services provided during the provision and rehabilitation with hearing aids The Competence Centre (which is established at the moment) is coordinated in cooperation with the Hörzentrum Oldenburg, which is predestined for the function of mediator as an institute at the university between university, clinic and industrial customers, and which can act - as a national unique institution - as a model for such an institute. Oldenburg is the local center of the competence centre to which nearly all partners have a regional relation. The superordinated structural aim of development is to have a center unique in Germany and Europe, which works on and solves, based on the know-how of leading institutes by specific cooperation, the present interesting and the innovation retarding questions regarding the treatment and rehabilitation with hearing-aids. It should furthermore be an advice center for the whole branch, transferring also system technology. International activities HörTech is a partner in the international Hearcom project, which hopes to enable the hearing-impaired to participate fully in the modern communication society by taking down some of the barriers to auditive communication. Its objectives include: hearing-ability screening tests via Internet or telephone, Europe-wide standardized audiological measurement techniques, quantification and improvement of room acoustics to accommodate speech communication with the hearing-impaired, Web-based tools to assist with the dispensing of hearing aids and the rehabilitation of patients, an Internet portal for hearing-impaired persons and specialists. Every two years, the Center of Competence holds an international forum for hearingaid developers in Oldenburg. HörTech also organizes twice-yearly meetings of the development managers of the worlds 6 largest hearing-aid manufacturers, to discuss the implementation of pre-competitive projects. Research and development Project I: Hardware Improving hearing-aid technology as a means of raising the acceptance of hearing systems Support from: BMBF Project members: Siemens Audiologische Technik, Hörzentrum Oldenburg, Academy for Hearing Aid Acoustics, Lübeck, University of Oldenburg, University of Applied Sciences Oldenburg/Ostfriesland/Wilhelmshaven, KIND Hörgeräte, AudioService GmbH, Dreve Otoplastik GmbH This project carries out important groundwork aimed at improving hearing-aid technology, following new approaches to signal processing and the design of hardware systems. At the same time, it also studies the non-technical aspects of hearing systems. The ultimate goal is not only to establish a theoretical base for enhanced technology but also to develop demonstrator prototypes and evaluate their acceptance and utility in practical trials involving volunteer subjects from the target user groups. Project II: Models Model-based approaches to the improvement of hearing diagnostics and the fitting of hearing devices Support from: BMBF Project members: University of Oldenburg, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Oldenburg, University of Giessen, Hörzentrum Oldenburg, Siemens Audiologische Technik, Kind Hörgeräte The audiological measurement techniques offered by HörTech (e.g. the Oldenburg sentence test) provide a rapid and accurate means of identifying the problems encountered when background noise and nearby conversations impinge on the listeners attention from different directions (e.g. at social gatherings). This can be an important factor in finding the ideal settings for a hearing device. The audiological tests used in the past were marred by certain shortcomings, such as an unrealistic reproduction of background noise. The members of the HörTech Models project have developed new methods that permit a much more natural emulation of interference situations. Project III: Algorithms Development of algorithms for speech processing in digital devices to compensate for hearing impairments Support from: BMBF Project members: University of Oldenburg, Siemens Audiologische Technik, University of Giessen, University of Applied Sciences Oldenburg/Ostfriesland/Wilhelmshaven, Hörzentrum Oldenburg The potential of digital signal processing has not yet been fully exploited. Many of the commonly employed signal processing strategies, or algorithms, are merely slightly modified versions of the processesemployed in analog hearing devices. The Algorithms project addresses this subject by setting the objective of improving the performance of hearing devices used in the rehabilitation of hearing disabilities. A common problem encountered by persons with hearing difficulties is distinguishing voices in a noisy environment (the so-called cocktail-party effect). We have decided to concentrate part of our work on this problem because of the limited success of existing algorithms used to suppress noise interference. We are focusing particularly on the possible use of binaural hearing models as a means of noise suppression. Project IV: Efficiency Cost-benefit ratio of hearing-aid components used in modern hearing systems Support from: BMBF Project members: Hörzentrum Oldenburg, University of Giessen, Kind Hörgeräte, University of Oldenburg, Siemens Audiologische Technik, University of Applied Sciences Oldenburg/Ostfriesland/Wilhelmshaven The main question addressed by this project is: What are the technical and audiological advantages of the components used in hearing systems for persons with hearing impairments? This work involves developing efficient analysis tools for highfidelity hearing systems and evaluating specific products, so that their performance can be rated and the results used to develop new, improved products. A further project focus is assessing the importance of specific, non-technical elements in patient care (e.g. fitting, after-sales service, readjustment, aftercare) and their influence on the choice of hearing aid, the fitting procedure, the satisfaction of the wearer, and the patients decision whether or not to wear a hearing aid. In order to obtain reliable information, a broadly based study of several months duration is being conducted by means of telephone inquiries screening diagnosed patients contemplating the possible fitting of a hearing aid. Region The administrative division Weser-Ems is in the North-West of Germany, in the near of the economical center Bremen, as well as the Netherlands and therefore in the center of Europe. The administrative division is about 110 km wide from the German-Dutch border in the West and a line, which runs from the Unterweser and the Western border of the town Bremen up to the Dümmer. The division extends with a length of about 200 km from the North Sea with marshlands, bogs and sandy heathlands - which is partly agriculturally used - up to the densely populated hilly country of Osnabrück with the range hills of the Wiehengebirge and the Teutoburger Wald. Contact Speaker of the Competence Centre HörTech: Prof. Dr. Dr. Birger Kollmeier Workgroup Medical Physics, University Oldenburg Carl-von-Ossietzky Str. 9-11 D - 26111 Oldenburg Phone: +49 441 798 - 5470 Fax: +49 441 798 - 3902 Organization of Competence Centre HörTech: Dr. Corinna Pelz Kompetenzzentrum HörTech gGmbH Marie-Curie-Str. 2 D - 26129 Oldenburg Tel: +49 441 2172 203 Fax: +49 441 2172 350 E-Mail: C.Pelz@Hoertech.de Image: Current image JPEG image — 53 KB Image Caption: HASH(0x332612c)	Print page Back