Belgian scientists have created a self-adjusting hearing aid
Scientists from Belgium have modified a previously created version of an implantable hearing aid. The device now adapts to the activity of the brain of a particular person.
Brain readings are provided through a set of electrodes that are implanted with the prosthesis. Hearing aids transmit sound coming from outside directly to the brain.
After analyzing the work of the improved version, scientists came to the conclusion that now they may not rely on human sensations. It is enough to look at the operation of the sensors. In the future, this will allow people with hearing loss to independently adjust the device for themselves, without visiting the hospital.
Cochlear machines have been in use for over 40 years. But the problem is that for periodic adjustments, the patient has to go to the doctor. The device was adjusted to the individual needs of a person.
The new design gets around this problem. Sound data is not only transmitted to the brain, but also feedback is collected on the operation of the device, the perception of information. It does this by analyzing the pattern of brain activity in response to stimulation of the auditory nerve.
The modified version was tested on volunteers' hearing aids. In some devices, some of the electrodes were replaced, and some of the conductors were attached to the skin.
The electrodes tracked how the new system reacted to different sounds. And also, what changes in the settings affected the operation of the devices themselves.
After test trials, Belgian scientists plan to switch to mass replacement of part of the electrodes.
Recently, OXO reported that scientists found foreign particles in baby bottles.
Brain readings are provided through a set of electrodes that are implanted with the prosthesis. Hearing aids transmit sound coming from outside directly to the brain.
After analyzing the work of the improved version, scientists came to the conclusion that now they may not rely on human sensations. It is enough to look at the operation of the sensors. In the future, this will allow people with hearing loss to independently adjust the device for themselves, without visiting the hospital.
Cochlear machines have been in use for over 40 years. But the problem is that for periodic adjustments, the patient has to go to the doctor. The device was adjusted to the individual needs of a person.
The new design gets around this problem. Sound data is not only transmitted to the brain, but also feedback is collected on the operation of the device, the perception of information. It does this by analyzing the pattern of brain activity in response to stimulation of the auditory nerve.
The modified version was tested on volunteers' hearing aids. In some devices, some of the electrodes were replaced, and some of the conductors were attached to the skin.
The electrodes tracked how the new system reacted to different sounds. And also, what changes in the settings affected the operation of the devices themselves.
After test trials, Belgian scientists plan to switch to mass replacement of part of the electrodes.
Recently, OXO reported that scientists found foreign particles in baby bottles.
