Patent Publication Number: US-11653161-B2

Title: Socket connector for a hearing device

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION DATA 
     This application claims priority to, and the benefit of, Danish Patent Application No. PA 2020 70538 filed on Aug. 18, 2020. The entire disclosure of the above application is expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
     FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to hearing devices. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a socket connector for the hearing devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Hearing devices may comprise different modules/units that may be connected by a plug and socket connector. For example, a hearing device may comprise a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) unit which, by means of a plug and socket connector, may be connected to an in-the-ear unit, typically a Receiver-In-the-Ear (RIE) unit. A hearing device comprising different parts provides that a user can disassemble the hearing device into the different parts, such that for example a user can clean a specific part or exchange a part without necessarily having to discard the complete hearing device. Typically, a RIE unit may be changed after a year or two, while a BTE unit may be used for a longer time. 
     However, it is a problem that a hearing device, which comprises different parts, may be more likely to malfunction when/if the different parts are not properly and securely interlocked to each other and if the electronics inside the BTE unit and RIE unit are not isolated from outside factors such as moisture and dirt. Furthermore, each type or brand or generation of hearing devices normally require a new connection interface, in case that the connector is implemented in e.g. the housing of the BTE unit. 
     There is a need for an improved hearing device comprising a universal connection interface suitable for use in different types of hearing devices comprising a BTE and RIE unit. Furthermore, there is a need for a hearing device in which at least a RIE unit can be exchanged. Furthermore, there is a need for a hearing device in which the electronics inside the BTE unit and RIE unit is protected from outside factors such as moisture and dirt. 
     SUMMARY 
     It is an object to provide a universal connection interface for interconnecting BTE and RIE units of any hearing device. 
     It is another object to provide a connection interface which will ensure protection of electronic components placed inside a BTE unit and/or electrical interfaces on a RIE unit from external factors. 
     It is a further object to provide a connection interface which would enable easy exchange of a housing of a BTE unit as well as of a RIE unit. 
     It is a further object to provide a connection interface allowing the use of BTE unit housings and RIE unit plug connectors having a reduced cost. 
     It is yet a further object to provide sealing between an interconnecting connection interface and a housing of a BTE unit as well as sealing between the interconnecting connection interface and a plug connector connecting the BTE and RIE units of a hearing device. 
     In a first aspect, a socket connector for a hearing device is disclosed. The hearing device comprises a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) unit and a Receiver-In-the-Ear (RIE) unit. The BTE unit comprises a frame, wherein the frame comprises electronic components of the BTE unit. The RIE unit comprises a plug connector. The plug connector is configured for providing an electrical connection between the BTE and RIE units. The socket connector is connectable to the frame of the BTE unit. The socket connector is configured for detachably connecting/attaching the plug connector to the frame. 
     The socket connector may be understood as a separate part/unit which mechanically connects the RIE unit, i.e. the plug connector, to the BTE unit, i.e. the frame of the BTE unit. 
     The socket connector is configured for detachably connecting/attaching the plug connector to the frame of the BTE unit. Such configuration provides a modularity where the different parts, i.e. different RIE units and different frames, may be used crosswise. Further, the socket connector may be used for different types, brands, generations of hearing devices. 
     The hearing device may be a headset or a hearing aid. The hearing device comprises a BTE unit and a RIE unit. The BTE unit typically comprises most of the electronics of the hearing device except for the receiver. The hearing device may comprise a first input transducer, e.g. a microphone, to generate one or more microphone output signals based on a received audio signal. The audio signal may be an analogue signal. The microphone output signal may be a digital signal. Thus, the first input transducer, e.g. microphone, or an analogue-to-digital converter, may convert the analogue audio signal into a digital microphone output signal. All the signals may be sound signals or signals comprising information about sound. The hearing device may comprise a signal processor. The one or more microphone output signals may be provided to the signal processor for processing the one or more microphone output signals. The signals may be processed such as to compensate for a user&#39;s hearing impairment. The signal processor may provide a modified signal. All these components may be comprised in a housing of the BTE unit. The hearing device may comprise a receiver or output transducer or speaker or loudspeaker. The receiver may be connected to an output of the signal processor. The receiver may output the modified signal into the user&#39;s ear. The receiver, or a digital-to-analogue converter, may convert the modified signal, which is a digital signal, from the processor to an analogue signal. The receiver may be comprised in the RIE unit. The RIE unit may comprise an additional microphone and/or one or more sensors, such as one or more bio sensors. Thus, the additional microphone and/or speaker and/or one or more sensors may be located in the RIE unit rather than in the BTE unit. The hearing device may comprise more than one microphone, and the BTE unit may comprise at least one microphone and the RIE unit may also comprise at least one microphone. 
     The hearing device signal processor may comprise elements such as an amplifier, a compressor and/or a noise reduction system etc. The signal processor may be implemented in a signal-processing chip or a printed circuit board (PCB). The hearing device may further have a filter function, such as compensation filter for optimizing the output signal. 
     The hearing device may furthermore comprise a wireless communication unit, such as a wireless communication circuit, for wireless data communication interconnected with an antenna, such as an radio frequency (RF) antenna or a magnetic induction antenna, for emission and reception of an electromagnetic field. The wireless communication unit including a radio or a transceiver, may connect to the hearing device signal processor and the antenna, for communicating with one or more external devices, such as one or more external electronic devices, including at least one smart phone, at least one tablet, at least one hearing accessory device, including at least one spouse microphone, remote control, audio testing device, etc., or, in some embodiments, with another hearing device, such as another hearing device located at another ear, typically in a binaural hearing device system. 
     The hearing device may be any hearing device, such as any hearing device compensating a hearing loss of a wearer of the hearing device, or such as any hearing device providing sound to a wearer, or such as a hearing device providing noise cancellation, or such as a hearing device providing tinnitus reduction/masking. The person skilled in the art is well aware of different kinds of hearing devices and of different options for arranging the hearing device in and/or at the ear of the hearing device wearer. 
     For example, the hearing device may be a Receiver-In-Canal (RIC) or Receiver-In-the-Ear (RIE or RITE) type hearing device, in which a receiver is positioned in the ear, such as in the ear canal, of a wearer during use, for example as part of an in-the-ear unit, while other hearing device components, such as a processor, a wireless communication unit, a battery, etc. are provided as an assembly and mounted in a housing of a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) unit. A plug and socket connector connects the BTE unit and the RIE unit. 
     The hearing device comprises the BTE unit. The BTE unit may comprise a housing wherein the frame is arranged in the housing. The frame typically supports electronic components of the BTE unit. The frame may comprise a printed circuit board (PCB) and/or other electronic components. The frame is normally dimensioned such that the frame, together with the components mounted thereon/therein, can be inserted into the housing. The socket connector may be fixed to the frame. The frame may comprise two separate units, i.e. a first frame unit and a second frame unit. The socket connector and/or the electronic components may be fixed to/within the frame during assembly of the first frame unit and the second frame unit. The first frame unit and the second frame unit may be provided with one or more connection/attachment means for connecting/attaching the first frame unit and the second frame unit to each other. The one or more connection/attachment means may be snap-fit connections. Alternatively the one or more connection/attachment means may be mechanical connection/attachment means, such as screws, or non-mechanical connection/attachment means, such as adhesives. Yet as an alternative the first frame unit and the second frame unit is kept together by the housing of the BTE unit. 
     The housing comprises an outer shell of the BTE unit and may have different shapes, different colours, and/or patterns. Naturally, the frame may also take different shapes and sizes according to the shape and size of the housing (or opposite). Also, the BTE unit may be sized for different types of batteries. The housing may comprise a bottom part comprising a bottom surface and a top part comprising a top surface opposite the bottom part. The housing may define a front part comprising a front surface and a rear part comprising a rear surface opposite the front part. The housing may have any size, shape and/or colour. Preferable, the housing of the BTE unit has an elongated or longitudinal or extended shape, such that the top part and the bottom part may be longer or more extended than the front part and rear part. Thus, the housing may extend in a longitudinal direction. The housing may be comprised of two separate units, i.e. a top housing and a bottom housing. The top housing may at least comprise the top part and optionally the rear part and/or the front part. The bottom housing may at least comprise the bottom part and optionally the rear part and/or the front part. The housing may be configured to be worn behind the ear of a user, and the housing may be oriented such that the top part faces substantially upwards and the bottom part faces substantially downwards, i.e. faces the ear of the user, when the hearing device is worn in its operational position in or at the ear of the user. The top part and the bottom part may be substantially horizontal parts when the hearing device is worn in its operational position in or at the ear of the user. The front part and rear part may be substantially vertical parts when hearing device is worn in its operational position in or at the ear of the user. The top housing and bottom housing may be provided with one or more connection/attachment means for connecting/attaching the top housing and the bottom housing to each other and/or the frame of the BTE unit. The one or more connection/attachment means may be snap-fit connections. 
     The housing of the BTE unit may be made from plastic material, such as any synthetic or semi-synthetic organic compounds that may be malleable or flexible and so may be moulded into a housing. The material may be a hard material or the material may be a soft material. The housing may be made of conducting material, such that the material may allow a flow of electrical current flowing in the material of the housing. The housing may comprise a mix of materials, such that one or more parts or sections or elements of the housing may be made from one material, while another one or more parts or sections or elements of the housing may be made from another material. The housing may comprise a guide for at least a part of the RIE unit. The guide may accommodate at least a part of the RIE unit, i.e. an electrical wire/tube of the RIE unit. At least part of the RIE unit, i.e. the electrical wire/tube, may be provided or arranged in or within the guide. The guide may be configured for guiding, directing, conveying, securing, retaining etc. at least a part of the RIE unit. 
     The hearing device comprises a RIE unit. The RIE unit typically comprises an earpiece, a plug connector, and an electrical wire/tube connecting the plug connector and earpiece. The earpiece may comprise an in-the-ear housing, a receiver, such as a receiver configured for being provided in an ear of a user and/or a receiver being configured for being provided in an ear canal of a user, and an open or closed dome. The dome may support correct placement of the earpiece in the ear of the user. The RIE unit may comprise a microphone, a receiver, one or more sensors, and/or other electronics. Some electronic components may be placed in the earpiece, while other electronic components may be placed in the plug connector. The receiver may be with a different strength, i.e. low power, medium power, or high power. The electrical wire/tube provides an electrical connection between electronic components provided in the earpiece of the RIE unit and electronic components provided in the BTE unit. The electrical wire/tube as well as the RIE unit itself may have different lengths. 
     The hearing device comprises a plug connector forming part of the RIE unit. The plug connector may be configured to be removably attached to the frame of the BTE unit by means of the socket connector. In other words, the plug connector may removably or releasably be attached or fixed or mounted or fastened or interconnected to or with the socket connector and thereby the frame. The plug connector may be mechanically fixed to the socket connector and thereby the frame. The plug connector may provide a mechanical fixation with the socket connector. The plug connector may engage with or be engaged with the socket connector and the frame. The socket connector together with the plug connector forms a plug and socket connector which provides a connection interface between the RIE unit and the BTE unit. The socket connector, and thereby the plug connector, may be arranged in the frame such that they appear on the bottom part of the housing. Alternatively, the socket connector and the plug connector may be arranged in the top part or the front part or the rear part of the housing. When arranging the socket connector, unoccupied space in the hearing device is normally taken into account. 
     The plug connector is configured for electrically connecting the RIE unit to the BTE unit. The plug connector may comprise a first electrical connection interface and the BTE unit, i.e. the frame, may comprise a second electrical connection interface. The first and second electrical connection interfaces may be configured for providing an electrical connection between the RIE unit and the BTE unit, such as between the plug connector of the RIE unit and the frame of the BTE unit. 
     The socket connector for the hearing device provides the advantage that the RIE unit including the plug connector and/or the housing of the BTE unit may be exchangeable parts of the hearing device. Namely, a hearing device user or a hearing care professional may exchange the housing any time without having to change the main electronics of the BTE unit. The user may also exchange the RIE unit by detaching the plug connector from the socket connector. 
     It is an advantage that the socket connector is detachably connected to the plug connector, since this provides that the plug connector together with the RIE unit may deliberately or intentionally be detached from the BTE unit for, e.g., replacement or for cleaning one or more parts of the RIE unit. 
     In some embodiments, the socket connector may be configured to fit with a plurality of different RIE units comprising the plug connector. Different RIE units may have the same mechanical connection interface, i.e. plug connector, configured for mechanical connection with the socket connector. The electronics in the plug connector and a plug connector electrical connection interface, such as the first electrical connection interface, may vary. Such an arrangement allows for use of one universal socket connector/connection interface with different RIE units. 
     In some embodiments, the plug connector may comprise a locking element. The socket connector may be configured for interacting with the locking element. The locking element may be configured for locking the plug connector to or in the socket connector when at least a part of the plug connector is arranged in the socket connector. It is an advantage that the locking element may provide that the RIE unit is securely attached to the BTE unit. It is a further advantage that the locking element may provide that the plug connector may be securely removed from the socket connector, such as removed from the socket connector without breaking the plug connector or the socket connector. The material selection for the locking element is typically made so that in an unintended use-case where the user pulls out the RIE unit with force, it is the locking element that breaks not the socket connector. In such scenario a new RIE unit can be inserted and the hearing device would work properly again. It is preferred that the RIE unit is released from the socket connector when it is pulled with a force above 6 N, such as above 10 N. The advantage is that the hearing device is not broken so no repair is needed to the hearing device. The locking element may be a separate deadbolt movably arranged in the plug connector as disclosed in EP3503587A. The deadbolt may be made from a thermoplastic material being softer than the thermoplastic material used for the base element of the socket connector, such as Polyoxymethylene (POM), by injection moulding. The socket connector may comprise an undercut configured to receive the locking element, such as the deadbolt. 
     In some embodiments, the socket connector may be configured to fit with a plurality of different frames. The frame is typically a part of the BTE unit which matches the shape and size of the housing. Naturally, the frame may have different shapes and sizes and the socket connector can be configured to fit with all different variations of the frame. Different frames may have the same mechanical connection interface configured for mechanical connection with the socket connector. Such an arrangement also allows for use of the one universal socket connector/connection interface with different frames and thereby different housings. 
     In some embodiments, the socket connector may comprise one or more attachment points for connection to the frame. The attachment points may be configured for attachment and/or interconnection and/or fixation of the socket connector to the frame. The attachment point may be in a form of protrusions or hooks. The attachment points of the socket connector may abut an inner surface of the frame and/or be arranged in an undercut in the frame. The attachment points improve the strength of the attachment and also improve design tolerances of both the socket connector and the frame. 
     In some embodiments where the BTE unit comprises a housing, the socket connector may be configured to fit with a plurality of different housings. Different housings may have the same interface configured for receiving the socket connector. Typically, the housing, i.e. the outer shell, is new for each hearing device. It is an advantage to have a socket connector to fit with different housings as it also allows the use of one universal socket connector/connection interface in different types of hearing devices. 
     In some embodiments, the socket connector may be configured to be removably arranged/received in a hole in the housing. The housing may define a hole for arranging/receiving the socket connector when the housing is attached to and/or around the frame of the BTE unit. The hole of the housing may be provided in the bottom part of the housing. It is an advantage that the socket connector is not directly attached to the housing as this allows the housing to be replaced without having to replace the entire hearing device, its electronics, or the socket connector which may be made from high quality materials. The socket connector received/arranged in the hole in the housing may not occupy any additional space which would otherwise be reserved for some electronic components of the BTE unit. In other words, it is an advantage that the socket connector may be provided in a hole of the housing which would in any case exist for attachment of the plug connector. 
     In some embodiments, the socket connector may be configured for sealing against moisture and dirt, for protecting electronic components of the BTE unit and plug connector against corrosion. Namely, the socket connector provides a seal between itself and the plug connector as well as between itself and the housing of the BTE unit. In the present context, the term sealing is to be interpreted as creating a blocking between two parts (socket connector—plug connector, and socket connector—housing) so as to prevent anything from passing between them. The socket connector may seal the electronic components including the first and second connection interface, such that these are protected from water, sweat, salt, etc. coming from the outside. By providing the sealing by the socket connector (and not by the housing or plug connector), the housing and plug connector may be made as cheaper parts. Thus, the manufacturing of the plug connector and the different housings is simplified and less complex and allows for use of simpler and cheaper manufacturing tools requiring less maintenance. Yet further, new products and housings with different designs are also easier and cheaper to produce. 
     In some embodiments, the socket connector may comprise a base element and at least one of a first sealing element or a second sealing element. The base element may provide stability, strength, rigidity, and/or shape for the socket connector while the first and/or second sealing element may provide sealing against moisture and dirt. The base element and the first/second sealing element may form an integral part. The base part may be a rigid part suitable for detachably connecting the plug connector to the frame of the BTE unit. According to some embodiments, the BTE housing and RIE unit may be exchangeable parts while the frame and socket connector may not be exchangeable parts of the hearing device. 
     In some embodiments, the first sealing element may be configured for providing sealing between the housing and the socket connector, e.g. the base element of the socket connector, and the second sealing element may be configured for providing sealing between the plug connector and the socket connector, e.g. the base element of the socket connector. Thus, double sealing is achieved by the socket connector. The first and/or second sealing element may each comprise a sealing lip configured for being compressed/flattened between walls/surfaces when the socket connector is received in the housing of the BTE unit and/or when the plug connector is received in the socket connector. The first and/or second sealing element may thus be configured for providing a face seal. The first and/or second sealing element may thus be configured as a static seal being subject to a preload to help attain the sealability. Preload occurs when the seal height is designed to be greater than the sealing gap. Under compression, the first and/or second sealing element is elastically deformed, producing internal stresses and generating a reaction force on respectively a wall/surface of the socket connector and the housing of the BTE unit and/or the plug connector. The first and/or second sealing element may be configured for being compressed 5 to 30%, such as 10 to 25%, such as about 20%. Furthermore, there are no requirements on the plug connector and the housing to provide sealing, what normally makes these parts more expensive and more complex in manufacturing. Having only one component, i.e. the socket connector, for providing the seal, the overall manufacturing complexity of the hearing device is reduced, as well as the cost. Namely, the only component which may require special attention during manufacturing is the socket connector while other components are significantly simplified. Even though the socket connector may be complex, it is beneficial to have a versatile component which can be used in many different types and brands of hearing devices. Additionally, it is cheaper to exchange the housing and the RIE unit, which may often need to be changed for various reasons. 
     In some embodiments, the first sealing element and the second sealing element may be integrated in one sealing part proving sealing between the housing and the socket connector and between the plug connector and the socket connector. Thus the first and second sealing element may form one sealing element. Achieving the sealing with only one integral part may reduce the complexity of the socket connector and/or strengthen the sealing elements. 
     In some embodiments, the first sealing element may be adhesively and/or mechanically connected to the base element. In some embodiments, the second sealing element may be adhesively and/or mechanically connected to the base element. In some embodiments, both the first and second sealing element may be adhesively and/or mechanically connected to the base element such that all the parts essentially form one piece, i.e. the socket connector. Alternatively, the first and/or second sealing element may be chemically bonded to the base element. 
     In some embodiments, the first sealing element may be moulded to the base element. In some embodiments the second sealing element may be moulded to the base element. In some embodiment, both the first and second sealing element may be moulded to the base element. The first and/or second sealing element may be moulded to the base element by using 2 K injection moulding. During 2 K injection moulding, two or more different materials are moulded together into one plastic part, i.e. by first moulding the base element and thereafter moulding the first and/or second sealing element directly on the base element. Therefore, when using 2 K injection moulding, the socket connector is essentially manufactured as one integral part. The first and second sealing elements may be made of the same material. 2 K injection moulding is a well-established process which can create fine structures with a lot of features, curves, edges, protrusions, etc., what may be required for the socket connector design. 
     In some embodiments, the base element of the socket connector may comprise inside walls and outside walls. The base element may be shaped as a circle, an oval, a rectangle, etc., with a hole in the centre part. The inside walls may then define the hole, while the outside walls may define the overall shape of the socket connector. 
     In some embodiments, the inside walls of the base element may form a hole in the socket connector. The hole may be a bore or a through hole allowing an electrical connection between the plug connector and electronic components of the BTE unit, i.e. connection between first and second electrical connection interfaces. The inside walls may point inwards, towards the plug connector, when the plug connector is arranged in the hole of the socket connector. The outside walls of the base element may point towards the housing, when the socket connector is arranged in the hole of the housing. 
     In some embodiments, the first and/or second sealing element of the socket connector is/are arranged to at least partly or completely surround respectively the inside walls and the outside walls of the base element. Such arrangement results in the first and second sealing elements being provided both on at least a part of the inside walls of the socket connector, i.e. on the circumference of the hole defined in the socket connector, and on at least a part of the outside walls of the socket connector, i.e. on the outer circumference of the socket connector. The first and/or second sealing element of the socket connector may thus be configured for providing a circumferential sealing respectively along the inside and outside walls of the base element of the socket connector. The first and/or second sealing element may also be provided in the bottom side of the sealing socket, i.e. a portion which may abut the frame of the BTE unit. 
     In some embodiments, the sealing between the plug connector and the inside walls of the base element of the socket connector may be provided by the second sealing element. The sealing is achieved by the second sealing element which is configured for providing a seal between the plug connector and at least a portion of the inside walls of the base element. The sealing between housing and the outside walls of the base element of the socket connector may be provided by the first sealing element. This is achieved by the first sealing element being configured as a seal arranged between the housing and at least a portion of the outside walls of the base element. 
     In some embodiments, the base element and respectively the first sealing element and/or the second sealing element of the socket connector may be made of different materials. Typically, the base element may be made of a rigid material while the sealing elements are made of a material softer than the base element. The base element may be rigid as it is normally fixed to the frame and as it provides stability to the entire socket connector. The sealing materials are made of softer materials such that a seal can be formed. 
     In some embodiments, the first sealing element and/or the second sealing element may be made of an elastomer, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, such as silicone. The sealing elements may be made of a rubbery/flexible substance thereby defining flexible seal. Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), sometimes referred to as thermoplastic rubbers, are a class of copolymers or a physical mix of polymers (usually a plastic and a rubber) that consist of materials with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. The elastomer used for the sealing elements may have hardness in a range between 30-80 shore durometers. In addition to the sealing function, the sealing elements may damp external vibrations which may possibly influence functioning of the hearing device, in particular when the hearing device is dropped on a hard surface, improving the overall robustness of the hearing device. Additionally, due to high flexibility of the sealing elements, fabrication tolerances are increased for the parts of the housing and the plug connector which abuts to the socket connector. 
     In some embodiments, the base element may be made of plastic, such as rigid/hard plastics, such as fiber reinforced thermo-plastics. The base element may ensure stability and rigidity of the socket connector, as well as give support to the sealing elements. The two materials may be moulded together such that the base element is made first and then the soft sealing elements are moulded to the base element in a 2 K process. Alternatively, the two materials may be adhesively or mechanically attached to each other. In yet one alternative, the two materials may be chemically bonded to each other e.g. by applying heat. After the two materials are attached to each other, the socket connector appear as one component. It is to be noted that the first and second sealing element may be made of the same or different thermoplastic elastomers with the same or different hardness. 
     In a second aspect, a hearing device is disclosed. The hearing device comprises a socket connector, a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) unit and a Receiver-In-the-Ear (RIE) unit. The BTE unit comprises a frame and the RIE unit comprises a plug connector. The frame comprises electronic components of the BTE unit. The plug connector is configured for providing an electrical connection between the RIE unit and the BTE unit. The socket connector is connectable to the frame of the BTE unit and is configured for detachably connecting/attaching the plug connector to the frame. 
     In some embodiments, the hearing device comprises a socket connector according to the first aspect. 
     The present disclosure relates to different aspects including the socket connector described above and in the following, and a corresponding hearing device, each yielding one or more of the benefits and advantages described in connection with the first mentioned aspect, and each having one or more embodiments corresponding to the embodiments described in connection with the first mentioned aspect and/or disclosed in the appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above and other features and advantages will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art by the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings, in which: 
         FIGS.  1   a  and  1   b    schematically illustrates an exemplary hearing device having a socket connector in respectively an assembled and an exploded view, 
         FIGS.  2   a ,  2   b  and  2   c    illustrate different perspective views of an exemplary socket connector, 
         FIG.  3    schematically illustrates the socket connector attached to a frame of a BTE unit, 
         FIGS.  4   a ,  4   b  and  4   c    schematically illustrates a socket connector, plug connector, and a locking element, and 
         FIG.  5    schematically illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary hearing device. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Various embodiments are described hereinafter with reference to the figures. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Like elements will, thus, not be described in detail with respect to the description of each figure. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or as a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, an illustrated embodiment needs not have all the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or an advantage described in conjunction with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and can be practiced in any other embodiments even if not so illustrated, or if not so explicitly described. 
       FIGS.  1   a  and  1   b    schematically illustrates an exemplary hearing device  4  having a socket connector  2  according to some embodiments. The hearing device  4  comprises a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) unit  6  and a Receiver-In-the-Ear (RIE) unit  8 . The BTE unit  6  comprises a frame  25 , wherein the frame  25  comprises electronic components  11  of the BTE unit  6 . The RIE unit  8  comprises a plug connector  12 . The plug connector  12  is configured for providing an electrical connection between the RIE unit  8  and the BTE unit  6 . The plug connector  12  also provides a mechanical connection between the RIE unit  8  and BTE unit  6 , i.e. via the socket connector  2 . The socket connector  2  is connectable to the frame  25  of the BTE unit  6  and is configured for detachably connecting/attaching the plug connector  12  to the frame  25 . 
     Furthermore the hearing device  4  comprises a housing  10  forming an outer shell of the BTE unit  6  around the frame  25 . The housing  10  comprises a hole  9  configured for receiving the socket connector  2 . The housing  10  comprise a bottom part  34  comprising a bottom surface and a top part  35  comprising a top surface opposite the bottom part  34 . The housing defines a front part  36  comprising a front surface and a rear part  37  comprising a rear surface opposite the front part  36 . The hole  9  is in the bottom part  34  of the housing  10 . 
     The BTE unit  6  may as in the illustrated embodiment comprise a battery compartment  7  accessible via/through a battery door (not shown). The hearing device  4  may be a rechargeable hearing device with or without a battery door. 
     The RIE unit  8  may as in the illustrated embodiment further comprise an electrical wire/tube  41  and an earpiece  40 . The electrical wire/tube  41  is configured for electrically connecting electronic components, such as a receiver as shown in  FIG.  5   , in the earpiece  40  with the plug connector  12 . The earpiece  40  may comprise an open or closed dome  40   a.    
     The exploded view in  FIG.  1   b    particular illustrates how the housing  10  may be comprised of a bottom housing  10   a  and a top housing  10   b , how the frame  25  may comprise a first frame unit  25   a  and a second frame unit  25   b  and how the electronic components  11  of the BTE unit  6  may comprise a printed circuit board  11   a  and a second electrical connection interface  11   b . The plug connector  12  comprises a corresponding first electrical connection interface (not shown). During assembly of the hearing device  4  at the manufacturing site a frame  25  and electronic components  11  are selected according to predefined specifications of the particular hearing device and the socket connector  2  is interconnected/fixed to the frame  25  during assembly of the frame, i.e. when first frame unit  25   a  is mounted/interconnected/fixed to the second frame unit  25   b . Hereafter, at the manufacturing site or at a hearing care professional, a housing  10  compatible with/suitable for the frame  25  is attached to/around the assembled frame, i.e. the top housing  10   b  and bottom housing  10   a  is mounted/interconnected/fixed to each other and/or the frame  25 , such that the socket connector  2  is accessible through the hole  9  in the bottom housing  10   a . Finally, the plug connector  12  of a RIE unit  8  may be detachable attached in the socket connector  2  by a hearing care professional or a user wherein the first and second electrical connection interface is aligned and electrical connected. 
     Such configuration provides a modularity where the different hearing device parts, i.e. different RIE units  8 , different frames  25  and different housings  10 , may be used crosswise. Further, the socket connector  2  may be used for different types, brands, generations of hearing devices. 
       FIGS.  2   a ,  2   b  and  2   c    illustrate different perspective views of an exemplary socket connector  2 . The socket connector  2  may comprise a base element  14 , a first sealing element  16 , and a second sealing element  18 . As shown in  FIG.  3   , the first sealing element  16  is configured for providing sealing between the housing  10  of the BTE unit  6  and the base element  14  of the socket connector  2  and the second sealing element  18  is configured for providing sealing between the plug connector  12  and the base element  14  of the socket connector  2 . The first and second sealing elements  16  and  18  may each form a sealing lip, such as an circumferential sealing lip, extending from a surface or wall of the base element  14 . The first and second sealing elements  16  and  18  may form an integral part and/or may be made of a flexible material, e.g. a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The base element  14  may be made of a material which is harder than the sealing elements. It may be a plastic material such as fiber reinforced thermos-plastics. All three parts  14 ,  16 ,  18  may be moulded together by 2 K moulding. Alternatively, the first sealing element  16  and the second sealing element  18  may be adhesively and/or mechanically fixed to the base element  14 . The base element  14  forms inside walls  20  and outside walls  22 . The inside walls  20  of the base element  14  form a hole  24  in the socket connector  2 . The first sealing element  16  is arranged on one of the outside walls  22  of the base element  14 . The second sealing element  18  is arranged on one of the inside walls  20  of the base element  14 . The hole  24  in the socket connector  2  is configured for receiving a plug connector, such as the plug connector  12  shown in  FIGS.  1   a ,  1   b   ,  3  and  4 . 
       FIG.  3    schematically illustrates a section of a cross-section of a hearing device assembly  4  where the socket connector  2  is attached to a frame of a BTE unit. The BTE unit comprises a frame  25  which serves for arrangement of electronic components of the BTE unit (not shown). The socket connector  2  may be interconnected/fixed to the frame  25 . The socket connector  2  comprises a number of attachment points for connection to the frame  25 , e.g. a first hook  27  and a second hook  27   a  formed by the base element  14 . The first and second hook  27  and  27   a  may be placed in undercuts  29  and  29   a  formed in the frame  25  during assembly of the frame  25 . The attachment points improve the strength of the attachment and also improve design tolerances of both the socket connector  2  and the frame  25 . 
       FIG.  3    also illustrates how the first sealing element  16  is compressed between a wall/surface of the socket connect  2 , i.e. the base element  14  of the socket connector  2 , and a wall/surface of the housing  10 , i.e. an wall/surface of the hole  9  in the housing  10 , when the socket connector  2  is received in the hole  9  of the housing  10 . As well as how the second sealing element  18  is compressed between a wall/surface of the socket connect  2 , i.e. the base element  14  of the socket connector  2 , and a wall/surface of the plug connector when the plug connector  12  is received in the socket connector  2 . The wall/surface of respectively the housing  10  and the plug connector  12  may be a substantially flat/planner wall/surface. The first and/or second sealing element  16  and  18  may be configured for being compressed 5 to 30%, such as 10 to 25%, such as about 20%. 
       FIGS.  4   a  and  4   b    schematically illustrates a socket connector  2 , plug connector  12 , and a locking element  26 , i.e. a socket and plug connector according to some embodiments.  FIG.  4   c    schematically illustrates a hearing device assembly comprising the socket connector  2 , plug connector  12 , and the locking element  26 .  FIG.  4   a    illustrates a top view of the socket connector  2  and the plug connector  12  detachable attached/locked in the socket connector  2  by the locking element  26 . The socket connector  2  comprises a first end  2   a  and a second end  2   b . The socket connector  2 /base element  14  may have a longitudinal shape in a direction parallel with an axis extending between the first and the second end  2   a  and  2   b  of the socket connector  2 . The plug connector  12  comprises a first end  12   a  being a free end, and a second end  12   b  being connected to the electrical wire/tube  41 . The plug connector  12  comprises a main body  31  extending between the first and the second end  12   a  and  12   b  of the plug connector  12 . The main body  31  may have a longitudinal shape in a direction parallel with an axis extending between the first and the second end  12   a  and  12   b  of the plug connector  12 . The plug connector  12  may comprise the locking element  26 . The locking element  26  is configured for detachable attaching/locking the plug connector  12  to or in the socket connector  2 , when at least a part of the plug connector  12  is arranged in the socket connector  2 . As also shown in  FIG.  4   c    the plug connector  12  has an upper free surface  13  being flush with an outer surface of the socket connector  2  (and an outer surface of the housing  10  of the BTE unit) and has a convex surface area  15  allowing a user to release the plug connector  12  from the socket connector  2  just by sliding e.g. a nail along the convex surface area  15  and against a release knob  26   a  having an upper surface being flush with the upper free surface  13  of the plug connector  12 .  FIG.  4   b    shows a cross-section of the socket and plug connector  2  and  12  where the illustrated locking element  26  further comprises a deadbolt  26   b  movable within a slot  32  in the main body  31  of the plug connector  12  into an undercut  17  in the socket connector  2 , such as a undercut  17  in the inside walls  20  of base element  14  provided in the second end  2   b  of the socket connector  2 . A surface  28  of the undercut  17  between the locking element  26 , i.e. the deadbolt  26   b , and the socket connector  2  is angled. This angled surface  28  helps in cases when the plug connector  12  is, e.g., pulled allowing the locking element  26  to release from the socket connector  2  before the socket connector  2  gets possibly broken or impaired. The angled surface is dimensioned such that it does not allow an easy release of the plug connector  12  from the socket connector  2 .  FIGS.  4   a ,  4   b  and  4   c    shows that a direction of insertion of the plug connector  12  into the socket connector  2  may be in an angle between 5-80 degrees relative to a longitudinal direction of the socket connector  2  (or the housing  10 ). The direction of insertion is due to placement of the plug connector  12  in an undercut  33  in the first end  2   a  of the socket connector  2 . Correct insertion/placement of the plug connector  12  into the socket connector  2  is facilitated by a guide  30  defined in the socket connector  2 , such as the second end  2   b  of the socket connector  2 , and optionally the housing  10 , such as the bottom housing  10   a . The guide  30  is configured for receiving the electrical wire/tube  41  extending from the second end  12   b  of the plug connector  12 . The plug connector  12  is secured to the socket connector  2  by the locking element  26 . 
     A first electrical connection interface (not shown) may be provided on/at a bottom surface  19  of the plug connector  12 . The bottom surface  19  being opposite the upper free surface  13  of the plug connector  12   
       FIG.  5    schematically illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary hearing device  4 . The hearing device  4  comprises a BTE unit  6  and a RIE unit  8 . 
     The BTE unit  6  comprises a housing  10 . The BTE unit  6  may comprise a first transducer, e.g. a microphone  42 , to generate one or more microphone output signals based on a received audio signal. The one or more microphone output signals may be provided to a signal processor  44  for processing the one or more microphone output signals. The BTE unit  6  may furthermore comprise a wireless communication unit  48 , such as a wireless communication circuit, for wireless data communication interconnected with an antenna  50 , such as an radio frequency (RF) antenna or a magnetic induction antenna, for emission and reception of an electromagnetic field. The wireless communication unit  48 , including a radio or a transceiver, may connect to the hearing device signal processor  44  and the antenna  50 , for communicating with one or more external devices, such as one or more external electronic devices, including at least one smart phone, at least one tablet, at least one hearing accessory device, including at least one spouse microphone, remote control, audio testing device, etc., or, in some embodiments, with another hearing device, such as another hearing device located at another ear, typically in a binaural hearing device system. 
     The RIE unit  8  comprises a plug connector  12 , an electrical wire/tube  41  and an earpiece  40 . The plug connector  12  and electrical wire/tube  41  is configured to mechanically and electrically connect the earpiece  40  to the BTE unit  6 . The earpiece  40  may comprise a receiver or speaker  46  for supplying a receiver output signal to the ear canal of the user. The receiver or speaker  46  may be connected to an output of the signal processor  44 , wherein the output signal of the signal processer may be modified to compensate for a user&#39;s hearing impairment, and the signal processor  44  may provide the modified signal to the speaker  46 . This connection may be established through the plug connector  12 . 
     Although particular features have been shown and described, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the claimed invention, and it will be made obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. The specification and drawings are, accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. The claimed invention is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents. 
     Items: 
     1. A socket connector fora hearing device, the hearing device comprising a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) unit and a Receiver-In-the-Ear (RIE) unit, the BTE unit comprising a frame, wherein the frame comprises electronic components of the BTE unit, the RIE unit comprising a plug connector, the plug connector being configured for providing an electrical connection between the RIE unit and the BTE unit, wherein the socket connector is connectable to the frame of the BTE unit and wherein the socket connector is configured for detachably connecting the plug connector to the frame.
 
2. The socket connector according to item 1, wherein the socket connector is configured to fit with a plurality of different RIE units comprising the plug connector.
 
3. The socket connector according to item 1 or 2, wherein the plug connector comprises a locking element and the socket connector is configured for interacting with the locking element, and wherein the locking element is configured for locking the plug connector to or in the socket connector, when at least a part of the plug connector is arranged in the socket connector.
 
4. The socket connector according to any of the preceding items, wherein the socket connector is configured to fit with a plurality of different frames.
 
5. The socket connector according to any of the preceding items, wherein the socket connector comprises one or more attachment points for connection/interconnection/attachment/fixation to the frame.
 
6. The socket connector according to item 1, wherein the BTE unit comprises a housing and the socket connector is configured to fit with a plurality of different housings.
 
7. The socket connector according to any of the preceding items, wherein the socket connector is configured to be removably arranged in a hole in the housing.
 
8. The socket connector according to any of the preceding items, wherein the socket connector is configured for sealing against moisture and dirt, for protecting electronic components of the BTE unit and plug connector against corrosion.
 
9. The socket connector according to any of the preceding items, wherein the socket connector comprises a base element and at least one of a first sealing element or a second sealing element.
 
10. The socket connector according to item 9, wherein the first sealing element is configured for providing sealing between the housing and the socket connector and the second sealing element is configured for providing sealing between the plug connector and the socket connector.
 
11. The socket connector according to item 9 or 10, wherein the first sealing element and the second sealing element are integrated in one sealing part proving sealing between the housing and the sealing socket and between the plug connector and the socket connector.
 
12. The socket connector according to items 9 to 11, wherein the first sealing element and/or the second sealing element is/are adhesively and/or mechanically connected to the base element.
 
13. The socket connector according to items 9 to 11, wherein the first sealing element and/or the second sealing element is/are moulded to the base element.
 
14. The socket connector according to items 9 to 13, wherein the base element of the socket connector comprises inside walls and outside walls.
 
15. The socket connector according to item 14, wherein the inside walls of the base element form a hole in the socket connector and wherein the inside walls are pointing inwards towards the plug connector, when the plug connector is arranged in the hole of the socket connector, and wherein the outside walls of the base element are pointing towards the housing, when the socket connector is arranged in the hole in the housing.
 
16. The socket connector according to item 14 or 15, wherein the first sealing element and/or the second sealing element of the socket connector is/are arranged to at least partly or completely surround respectively the inside walls and the outside walls of the base element.
 
17. The socket connector according to item 14 to 16, wherein the first sealing element and/or the second sealing element of the socket connector is/are configured for providing a circumferential sealing respectively along the inside and outside walls of the base element of the socket connector.
 
18. The socket connector according to items 14 to 17, wherein sealing between the plug connector and the inside walls of the base element of the socket connector is provided by the second sealing element, and wherein sealing between the housing and the outside walls of the base element of the socket connector is provided by the first sealing element.
 
19. The socket connector according to items 9 to 18, wherein the base element and respectively the first sealing element and/or the second sealing element of the socket connector are made of different materials.
 
20. The socket connector according to items 9 to 19, wherein the first sealing element and/or the second sealing element is made of an elastomer, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, such as silicone.
 
21. The socket connector according to items 9 to 20, wherein the base element is made of plastic, such as fiber reinforced thermo-plastics.
 
22. A hearing device comprising:
 
     a socket connector, 
     a Behind-The-Ear (BTE) unit, the BTE unit comprising a frame, wherein the frame comprises electronic components of the BTE unit, and 
     a Receiver-In-the-Ear (RIE) unit, the RIE unit comprising a plug connector, where the plug connector is configured for providing an electrical connection between the RIE unit and the BTE unit, 
     wherein the socket connector is connectable to the frame of the BTE unit and wherein the socket connector is configured for detachably connecting the plug connector to the frame. 
     23. A hearing device according to item 22, wherein the socket connector is a socket connector according to any of the items 1 to 21. 
     LIST OF REFERENCES 
     
         
           2  socket connector 
           2   a  first end of socket connector 
           2   b  second end of socket connector 
           4  hearing device 
           6  Behind-The-Ear (BTE) unit 
           7  battery compartment 
           8  Receiver-In-the-Ear (RIE) unit 
           9  hole in housing 
           10  housing 
           10   a  bottom housing 
           10   b  top housing 
           11  electronic components of BTE unit 
           11   a  printed circuit board 
           11   b  second electrical connection interface 
           12  plug connector 
           12   a  first end of plug connector 
           12   b  second end of plug connector 
           13  upper free surface 
           14  base element 
           15  convex surface area 
           16  first sealing element 
           17  undercut in second end of socket connector 
           18  second sealing element 
           19  bottom surface of plug connector 
           20  inside walls of base element 
           22  outside walls of base element 
           24  hole in socket connector 
           25  frame 
           25   a  first frame unit 
           25   b  second frame unit 
           26  locking element 
           26   a  release knob 
           26   b  deadbolt 
           27 ,  27   a  hook of base element 
           28  surface between locking element and socket connector 
           29 ,  29   a  undercut in frame 
           30  guide 
           31  main body of plug connector 
           32  slot 
           33  undercut in first end of socket connector 
           34  bottom part of housing 
           35  top part of housing 
           36  front part of housing 
           37  rear part of housing 
           40  earpiece 
           40   a  dome 
           41  electrical wire/tube 
           42  microphone 
           44  signal processor 
           46  speaker 
           48  wireless communication unit 
           50  antenna