Flex-based connector for hearing aid

摘要

Described herein is a multi-pin flex-based electrical plug and socket that can be incorporated into a hearing aid and be used to serve two purposes depending on the orientation with which the plug is inserted into the socket. For example, the plug may be inserted into the socket in a first orientation (e.g., right-side up) for programming the hearing aid and inserted in a second orientation (e.g., upside down) for inputting a DAI signal. In an alternate embodiment, the plug and socket forms a both-ways-okay connector such that the plug can be inserted in a either a first orientation or a second orientation (e.g., either right-side up or upside down) and still function.

主权项

1. A hearing aid, comprising:
a microphone for converting an audio input into an input signal; a direct audio input (DAI) circuit for receiving a DAI signal; a digital signal processor (DSP) for processing the input signal, the DAI signal, or a combination thereof into an output signal in a manner that compensates for a patient's hearing deficit; an audio amplifier and speaker for converting the output signal into an audio output; a programming circuit for receiving programming signals to configure the DSP; a socket for receiving a connector plug, wherein the connector plug has one or more plug pads that make contact with one or more socket pads of the socket when the connector plug is inserted; and, wherein the locations of the plug pads and the socket pads are such that the one or more plug pads are electrically connected to the DAI circuit when the connector plug is inserted into the socket in a first orientation and such that one or more plug pads are electrically connected to the programming circuit when the connector plug is inserted into the socket in a second orientation.