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Miniaturized antennas for link between binaural hearing aids
1Department of Electrical and Information Technology, Lund University, Sweden. rohit.chandra@eit.lth.se
Summary
Miniaturized antennas in the 2.45 GHz ISM band are feasible for binaural hearing aid communication. Outer ear placement offers significantly lower link loss (48 dB) compared to in-ear placement (92 dB).
Area of Science:
- Electrical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Wireless Communication
Background:
- Binaural hearing aids require reliable, miniaturized communication systems.
- The 2.45 GHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band is a potential frequency for hearing aid communication.
- Antenna miniaturization is critical for integrating communication technology into small hearing aid devices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of using the 2.45 GHz ISM band for inter-hearing aid communication.
- To evaluate antenna performance for two distinct hearing aid placements: outer ear and ear canal.
- To assess the impact of antenna miniaturization techniques on communication link loss.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) simulations for electromagnetic analysis.
- Employed a modified Specific Anthropomorphic Mannequin (SAM) head model with an integrated ear canal.
- Designed and simulated miniaturized antennas using disc loading and high permittivity materials.
Main Results:
- Outer ear hearing aid placement demonstrated a total link loss of 48 dB.
- In-ear canal hearing aid placement resulted in a significantly higher total link loss of 92 dB.
- Miniaturization techniques were applied to meet the size constraints of hearing aid antennas.
Conclusions:
- The 2.45 GHz ISM band is a viable option for binaural hearing aid communication.
- Outer ear placement is superior for achieving lower link loss in hearing aid communication systems.
- Effective antenna miniaturization is achievable for hearing aid applications.
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