A hearing aid is an electronic device that can receive and amplify incoming sounds for people with hearing impairment to aim for better sound understanding through proper amplification.
Here's how they work:
A microphone picks up sound around you.
An amplifier makes the sound louder.
A receiver sends these amplified sounds into your ear.
Not everyone with hearing loss can benefit from hearing aids. But only 1 in 5 people who could have improvement wear them. Most of the time, they're for people who have damage to their inner ear or the nerve that links the ear with the brain. The damage can come from:
Disease
Aging
Loud noises
Medications
Hearing aid ear molds Hearing aids are generally thought of as consisting of a microphone, an amplifier circuit, and a receiver. In fact, hearing aids also have an important component-earmolds. An ear mold is a device that transmits output sound from the earpiece of a hearing aid to the external auditory canal or eardrum. The acoustic plug-in is part of a complete hearing aid system.
Why use ear molds Before the emergence of ear molds, hearing aids were connected to the ear canal with different size ear plugs, and different size ear canals used different size ear plugs. However, because the earplugs and the ear canal are not tightly matched, when the volume of the hearing aid is large, the output sound of the hearing aid will leak to the microphone through the external ear canal, and acoustic feedback will occur. In this way, hearing aids cannot meet the needs of patients with severe and very severe deafness. In addition, the earplugs are easy to fall off, which is not good for hearing aid fixation, especially for behind-the-ear hearing aids. Based on this, ear molds are produced, which are also two functions of ear molds.
Ear mold concept Ear molds are acoustic inserts made according to the shape of the ear cavity and external auditory canal of the hearing aid user. It is placed in the ear cavity or ear canal, and is fixed in the ear using anatomical structures such as the ear wheel and the opposite ear wheel, the tragus and the opposite tragus, and the external ear canal. The ear mold is an acoustic plug-in, which is part of the hearing aid system. It transmits the amplified sound of the hearing aid from the receiver of the hearing aid to the external ear canal or tympanic membrane. For in-ear, ear canal, and other customized hearing aids, the shell of the hearing aid is equivalent to an ear mold. Standard ear mold as shown. This ear mold is a plug-type ear mold with a sound hole diameter of 2mm and no vent holes. Due to its better sealing in the ear, it is suitable for severe and very severe deafness. There is a small metal ring or a small ring of thermoplastic rubber on the outer end of the ear mold sound hole. The earphone of the box-type hearing aid is buckled on this ring, and the sound can be transmitted to the external ear canal through the sound hole. Therefore, standard ear molds are suitable for high-powered cassette hearing aids.
Standard ear mold composition A-ear wheel B-ear screen C-cut between the tragusD- pair of tragus E-outer ear F-ear wheel
Figure 4-2 Anatomy of the auricle Figure 4-3 Ear mold position
Historic Formation of International Cochlear Advocacy Alliance to Improve Access to Cochlear Implants for Adults with Severe to Profound Hearing Loss GENEVA, December 6, 2019: The themes of...
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Report by Monika Baumann and Susanna Løve Callaway.
'Securing the Future and Intelligent Listening' was the focus of the 64thInternational Congress of Hearing Acousticians, held in Hannover from 16-18 October 2019. More than 8000 delegates from 99 countries took part.
Extending the digitisation in hearing technology within connectivity and the use of artificial intelligence within machine learning to give the hearing aid users an extended dimension for individualisation of listening experience, conditions and possibilities to utmost best participate in our interactive world seems to be the theme of the next decade. Combining health care for an aging generation by providing hearing technology on a new level will be the future started from now. For hearing aid acousticians and manufacturers of hearing systems a transition into a new business?
Keynote speaker for opening session: futurologist Kai Gondlach sketching human's technology journey for the next decade
EUHA Sponsorship Award: EUHA Vice President; Eva Keil-Becker, presented the award to Christoph Neumann and Lennart Bandick
Professor Dr Karin Schorn presented the Research Award of the Research Association of German Hearing Aid Acousticians (FDHA) to Dr Hendrik Husstedt
Those who did not manage to attend the congress, or wish to recap in peace and quiet what they heard, will soon be able to watch all presentations online atwww.euha.tv.
Report by Susanna Løve Callaway, Director of Clinical Audiology, Oticon A/S
This year, I had the pleasure of visiting the annual EUHA conference for the very first time. In the past, many colleagues of mine within the Demant organisation have gone and shared their experiences about new advances in hearing health care and I looked forward to exploring the halls with over 140 exhibitors for myself. The exhibit halls were comfortable and for the most part not too crowded, with a lot of natural light. I might have a few suggestions to improve the food offering for lunch. I was, however, able to get great coffee at Bernafon and several other exhibitors!
Overall, the atmosphere was pleasant and talking to individual exhibitors allowed me to dig deeper into the specific products. I spoke at length to fellow professionals at Widex, Hörzentrum Oldenburg, Lenire, Phonak, and Signia and I sat and listened to a lecture at the Resound booth to learn about remote care options and marketing strategies from a psychological perspective. Our own stand, Oticon, was well-visited and included product presentations and a book signing with the author ofGanz Ohr, Thomas Sünder.
There were interesting live demonstrations / shows of Phonak Marvel, Signia Xperience, and Starkey Livio AI and as a fellow hearing aid manufacturer, it is always fascinating to study the wording, marketing strategies, and message prioritisation of competitors. I noticed an overall exhibit design trend of simple, but aesthetically pleasing design and short powerful messaging. It also occurred to me that the focus overall was not as much on audiological innovations, as it was on connectivity, new form factors, digitalisation, machine learning, sensor technology, and small, easy-to-use accessories.
Overall, it was an interesting and inspiring experience that gave me new ideas to take home into my own everyday work.
Report by Monika Baumann, Manager for Post-market Clinical Follow-up, Oticon A/S
On Wednesday 16 of October the doors of Nuremberg Convention Centre, Germany, opened for the 64thInternational Congress of Hearing Aid Acousticians 2019. An impressive trade show with more than 154 exhibiting companies from 21 countries, 22 lectures and six tutorials, presenting current knowledge from the field of audiology, research, hearing technology and medicine welcomed 8000 delegates from 80 countries in the world.
When I arrived at EUHA in Nuremberg it felt like coming home. As a German Hörakustiker (hearing-aid acoustician) from education, I have attended numerous EUHA conferences and always enjoyed when it returned to Nuremberg. Entering the conference centre, I met with friends in the waiting line and later, in the exhibition hall, there was a warm welcome on the first morning from Phonak and Hansaton at the entrance of hall 3A, offering an arrival snack with white sausages and pretzels. This immediately made their booths busy. A first tour through both exhibition halls left me with the impression of being invited to a fascinating multi-media world of hearing technology.
EUHA President, Beate Gromke opened the conference at lunchtime by citing Aristoteles with the words "The Whole is greater than the sum of its parts". This was to highlight that it is the first time EUHA is providing a tool for networking with speakers after their respective lectures to share their expertise. EUHA also provides a programme of lectures, tutorials, and the Future Friday sessions, in parallel to exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations in hearing aid technology, fitting systems, and diagnostics.
EUHA has for many years been offering an educational programme in parallel to the exhibition and the lectures of the conference. It is held in form of 90-minute tutorials assigned to specific topics on Thursday and Friday. This year, six topics were covered in the German language.
The first tutorial discussed the question, 'how does psychoacoustics affect the subjective loudness determination of sound by the hearing aid user and how could this be used to optimise the individual fitting?', while the second tutorial focused on cochlear implantation (CI) and how the acoustician could be involved in fitting and ongoing support in the future. The third tutorial focused on two alternatives to standard speech testing that could be used to predict auditory deprivation and user acceptance of amplified sound in noisy listening conditions. The Acceptable Noise Level (ANL) test and the signal to noise ratio (SNR) test using the Aalenener sentences have been demonstrated as tools to predict acceptance and optimise hearing aid settings. The Thursday educational programme was finalised by a tutorial investigating and demonstrating the use of smart phone applications and to what extent they can affect the individual hearing aid settings. A live demonstration of how to verify smart phone control of hearing aids was included.
On Friday morning, a session was held about hyperacusis, its symptoms, origin, facets, comorbidities, and the quantification and differentiation of types, in order to help the acousticians motivate the patients towards more sound exposure. Finally, a tutorial on audio therapy was offered. Audio therapy should be applied to help the hearing impaired in regaining listening and communication competency after years of deprivation from sound. The advice and guidance on how to listen again and accept amplified sounds is a central task of the acoustician in the provision of hearing aids. The EUHA guideline, 'Audio therapy in audiology' was presented and its implementation discussed.
All tutorials focused on knowledge and guidance related to everyday challenges in the audiology practice with practical examples, useful tools, and discussion. The motivation of the participants to apply and put the new gained possibilities into practice was noticeably high when they were asked afterwards.
Key themes at the trade exhibition included extending made-for-iPhone connectivity to Android as well as rechargeability of hearing aids to more styles and price points. Furthermore, sensor technology is moving into hearing aids and artificial intelligence can start to provide cloud-based machine learning for hearing aid user programmes – both still in early days of development.
Signiaby WSAudiology introduced the Signia Xperience product having an integrated acoustic motion sensor to register changing acoustic scenes when moving and then adapting the directionality and noise reduction of the hearing aid to follow the acoustic changes.
Phonakannounced more than 1,000000 Marvel hearing aids sold by now and introducing Marvel to their Bolero and Sky series. Roger Direct streaming to Marvel, new app features and their Bluetooth classic connectivity to Android and iPhone tighten this year's innovations up.
Oticonpresented their new and most powerful hearing aid family in the market Xceed for adults and Xceed Play for children introducing their feedback breaker technology OpenSound Optimizer to the power segment. Oticon's product portfolio is also extended with a wireless CROS version based on TwinLink™ dual-streaming allowing NFMI-wireless CROS transmission at the same time with 2.4 GHz connectivity.
Widexby WSAudiology presented the BTE 13 D for their Evoke family using MEMS microphones, their SoundSense App applying cloud-based machine learning for user programme settings now integrated with Compass fitting software to give the audiologist access to the cloud and read programme setting changed by machine learning.
ReSoundcontinued their story of connectivity by leading the development of ASHA – an Android streaming protocol – together with Google and introducing the first wireless CIC in LINX Quattro.
Starkeyannounced to launch on November 1, an app using the Android ASHA streaming protocol in Google Play. To combine health monitoring technology with hearing aids they use sensors for body and brain tracking and fall detection.
Jinghao China best hearing aids amplifer manufacturer and supplier. all products with CE, RoHS, FDA certificates.
Besides the six major manufacturers and their second brands, I could get news at several labs producing custom made shell and earmolds, enjoy demonstrations of new diagnostic and verification technology at Interacoustics, Diatec, Auditdata and even smaller companies like Auritec. Everybody welcomed me and had news to tell – even though the pace of development is slower in their area.
Overall, a visit to EUHA is very worthwhile from several points of view – meeting friends and colleagues, collecting news, learning about new audiology topics and expanding knowledge from lectures and tutorials – the sum of the parts makes the whole greater!
The main components of a pocket hearing aid are a microphone, amplifier, and battery in a box. A small wire connects the body to the earphone (or a headphone attached to the ear mold). Basic Structure ofPocket Hearing Aid From the perspective of the external structure of the box-type hearing aid, it mainly consists of three main parts: the earphone, the lead and the body (take the JINGHAO box-type hearing aid as an example)
Hearing loss is not just an age-related disability; it is affecting people at younger and younger ages. A 2016 study by McMaster University showed that 28% of participants (between 11 – 17 years old) had the early warning signs of hearing loss, in the form of persistent tinnitus
The Anatomy of the Ear
The outer ear consists of thepinnaand theauditory canal. The auditory canal amplifies frequencies in the range 3 to 12 kHz.
The middle ear includes:
theeardrum(tympanic membrane)
ossicles– the three smallest bones in the human body
twomuscle tendons
twonerve bundles: the vestibular (for balance)
the auditory (for hearing)
The inner ear is filled with fluid and includes:
Thecochlea(for hearing), which each have 15,000 hair cells
Thevestibular apparatus
Theauditory cortexis the area of the brain that interprets sounds.
Theeustachian tubesregulate pressure in the middle ear.
How We Hear
The ear (known as the outer pinna) directs sound waves down the auditory canal to the eardrum (known as the tympanic membrane), causing it to vibrate very slightly. The ossicles include: the hammer (malleus), anvil (incus) and stirrup (stapes). They work together as a lever system to amplify the vibrations, which are then passed along to a smaller vibrating membrane on the surface of the cochlea of the inner ear (called the elliptical window).
The mechanical energy of the sound, now translated to a physical vibration, creates compression waves within the fluid-filled spiral tube of the cochlea, which in turn move the tiny hair cells lining the inside of the cochlea. As the hairs move, nerve cells at their base change this motion into electrical signals that are passed along the auditory nerve to the central auditory processing centres of the brain, where the signals are interpreted as recognizable sound.
To learn more about how hearing works, watch this videoproduced by Rockefeller University.
Importing from China has proven a successful tactic of global sourcing for many businesses. Products made in China such as shoes, clothing, electronics, furniture, home furnishings and many more are popular worldwide.
However, it is not an easy task, especially for the newbies. The importing process can be extremely complex, confusing, and costly. Expected gains can often be erased by long transit times, rising or fluctuating delivery costs, regulatory fees, and unexpected delays.
Here's a step by step Guide from the view of us,a local freight forwarderserving the exporters in China and importers worldwide for years. Let's check out how to import from China, and what you can do to make the process more smoothly and efficiently.
NOTE #1: The information provided below are for general information purposes only. The best practice is always checking with your local customs authority andbuying from small order. NOTE #2: We've been providingsupplier verification service. Wish you a good start.
1. Identify your import rights.
When you buy goods from foreign sources, you become the importer. The courier such as DHL/UPS/FedEx will handle everything and deliver to your door if your package is small and used forpersonal use only or the value is not so big. If so, it will save you a lot of time and money.
But before purchasing commercial goods into your country, as a business or an individual, you will need to identify if you have the import rights. (Learn moreif you are an U.S. resident)
Attention:
Many import regulations only apply to goods imported for commercial — business or resale — purposes. And only the customs authority can make judgment calls about what qualifies as personal use. Several suits that are identical or a number of very similar handbags will have a hard time passing the credibility test as items for personal use.
2. Identify the goods you want to import.
Trade company make money by selling products. Choosing the wrong products means you are losing time and money. If you're going to be a successful importer, the first thing you need to do is to choose the correct product for resell.
You'd better gather as much information as possible about the goods you intend to import. Obtain descriptive literature, product composition information and, whenever possible, product samples.
This information will be crucial when it comes time to determine the tariff classification. The tariff clarification number (HS Code) will be used to determine the rate of duty that will be applied to your goods.
We suggest:
Go with a product you like — you are passionate about your work
Go with a product uniqueness — you can sell at a high price
Go with a product you can ship in large quantities — low shipping cost per unit
3. Ensure the goods you wish to import are permitted into your country.
Certain goods are not allowed to be imported. Different countries have different prohibited products. Also make sure whether the goods you intend to import are subject to any permits, restrictions or regulations by your government.
It is the importer's (YOUR) responsibility for assuring that the goods comply with a variety of specific rules and regulations.
Importing goods that are unsafe, that fail to meet health code requirements, or that violate restrictions could end up costing you quite a bit of money in fines and penalties. At the very least, such goods would be detained, and possibly destroyed.
4. Classify your goods and calculate the landed cost.
Determine the 10-digit tariff classification number for each item you are importing. These numbers along with theCertificate of Originare used to determine the rate of duty you must pay when importing. Then do the land cost calculation.
Pay attention to theIncoterms, and calculate thetotal landed costbefore you place your order. For example, FOB means adding the following three together.
Get the product price from the supplier
Get the shipping charges from China freight forwarding company (like us)
Get the charges of Customs clearance, duty&tax, land transport to your warehouse
5. Find your supplier in China and place an order.
Place your order with the vendor, shipper or exporter and identify shipping terms that will be used.
Once you have selected your supplier, request a P/I (Proforma Invoice or Quote Sheet) for your prospective purchases to include the harmonized system number, description & value per item. Your P/I must show the weight & the packed dimensions as well as your term of purchase.
What is a proforma invoice? It is a non binding document helping budgeting your future purchases. It is not a purchase order nor does it creates a legal obligation.
Attention:
1.Ensure the supplier will agree to shipping underFOB termsfrom their nearest port or airport as this will greatly reduce your shipping costs and give you more control over the shipment.
For example, if you were importing from China and the closest port to the supplier is Shanghai, you would request FOB Shanghai terms.
* If it's trial order or small shipment, EXW will be also ok.
2.Keep in mind shipping by ocean is indeed quite slow, and this means that certainly requires a lot more long-term planning compared to domestic product purchases. Besides, the time required to export goods, including documentation, inland travel, customs clearance, and port or terminal handling for a container of goods can cost upto 7 days.
In general, we recommend place an order at a minimum3 months before you need your goods at your door.
We suggest NOT:
1.Always looking for the lowest price.
If you come across a quote that is significantly cheaper than the others, raise a red flag. You should know that there is no lowest price in China, only the lower and lower prices. Lowest price always accompanies with high risk, maybe quality, quantity or reputation.
Just find a reliable supplier and grow with them in a healthy way.
2.Failure to clarify product details.
If you aren't extremely clear to your supplier about your required specifications, there is a big chance you would receive exactly what you didn't want. Not clear means the factory will make the decision for you based on cost saving.
Ensure you double check the materials and the manufacturing process of each quote so you can feel confident in the products you are purchasing.
Make sure your supplier has totally confirmed every spec of your target product, including the packaging. Sometimes, it's necessary to send the sample for recheck.
3.Showing distrust towards your supplier.
International trade is based on mutual trust. If you don't trust your supplier, nobody will look after your production in the factory, and nobody will sincerely help you when trouble happens.
6. Arrange your cargo transport.
There are many costs associated with shipping goods, including container fees, packaging, terminal handling, and broker fees. In order to get a complete picture of shipping costs, each of these factors should be taken into account.
Once happy with thefreight quote, you will need to send us or forwarder your supplier's contact details. We'll take it from there. We're going to keep close touch with you and your supplier, make sure your shipment transportation quick and safe.
1.Always consider thatdelaysmight happen during the process, such as goods might not be produced on time, the vessel might not sail as scheduled, goods might be held by the customs. Be prepared and plan accordingly.
Do not expect your cargo would leave the port as soon as completed in the factory. Because it needs at least 1~2 days for your cargo transport from the factory to the port. And the process of Customs Declaration needs your cargo to stay at the port for at least 1~2 days.
Besides, there's only one route frequency each week in some cases. Missing the day of this week, you will have to wait till next week.
Logistics is a highly valued aspect of modern business. Shipping costs include both the direct and indirect costs of transporting products from their point of origin to their destination market.
If they get it right, and choose a good logistics provider; they are guaranteed smooth operations, manageable costs, and continuous cash flow.
If they get it wrong, at the very least they could have rising costs and wastage. At worst, they could be facing a failing business model that has to be eventually shut down. Companies will continue to lose money if their logistics is not managed well.
7. Track your cargo and get prepared for arrival.
Shipping goods internationally takes time. For example, goods shipped from China, on average, take around 14 days to reach the West Coast of United States or 30 days to reach the East Coast.
During the time, check your commercial invoice, packing list, the bill of lading, and other relatedfreight documents. If problems arise that you need to troubleshoot, you should know the steps your goods go through when being cleared by Customs of your country.
8. Obtain your shipment.
When the goods arrive, make arrangements for your customs broker to clear them through customs (and quarantine if applicable). If everything goes well, it's your rights to pick up your shipment.
If you choose our to-door service, you can just wait for your shipment arrived at your designated address.
Summary
Follow these tips and do your research and you can benefit from importing from China.
Wish you a great success in international trade.
Please feel free to let us know if we can assist you in any way.
