Patent Description:
This disclosure relates to hearing instruments.

Hearing instruments are devices designed to be worn on, in, or near one or more of a user's ears. Common types of hearing instruments include hearing assistance devices (e.g., "hearing aids"), earbuds, headphones, hearables, cochlear implants, and so on. In some examples, a hearing instrument may be implanted or integrated into a user. Some hearing instruments include additional features beyond just environmental sound- amplification. For example, some modem hearing instruments include advanced audio processing for improved device functionality, controlling and programming the devices, and beamforming, and some may even communicate wirelessly with external devices including other hearing instruments (e.g., for streaming media).

<CIT> relates to a hearing aid and a method for operating a hearing aid including a signal processing device operable by using different signal processing parameters and a UV sensor connected to the signal processing device. The signal processing device can set at least one signal processing parameter as a function of an output signal of the UV sensor.

<CIT> relates to automated control of a program of a listening device, such as a hearing aid. A communications link is established between a personal portable computing device, such as a smartphone, and the listening device.

<CIT> relates to a portable communication device including at least one sensing circuit and a processor, and operates in accordance with a corresponding method of operation. The sensing circuit detects either a characteristic of an external environment containing the portable communication device or a characteristic of the portable communication device user, and generates a signal representative of a feature of the sensed characteristic.

The present invention provides a method for operating a hearing instrument with the features of claim <NUM>. This disclosure describes techniques for determining whether a user of a hearing instrument is located either indoors or outdoors. The hearing instrument has a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor and/or a spectrometer and optionally an ultraviolet (UV) sensor on board the hearing instrument to determine whether the user is located indoors or outdoors. The hearing instrument may use energy converted by the UV sensor to charge a power source used by the hearing instrument. The UV sensor may also be used in the manufacturing process of the hearing instrument by detecting UV light used in the curing of an adhesive used in the manufacturing of the hearing instrument. Processing circuitry onboard the hearing instrument may use the data from the UV sensor to determine whether the adhesive is properly cured and thus improve the manufacturing process for the hearing instrument. The UV sensor may also work with other onboard sensors, such as the PPG sensor to determine if the user has hair or a head covering which is blocking the hearing instrument. If a user's hair or head covering is detected, the processing circuitry may adjust a pre-established heat balance equation, which determines a user's temperature.

In an example according to the disclosure, a system may have a rechargeable hearing instrument with a power source, an ultraviolet (UV) sensor configured to convert received UV light into electrical power and charging circuitry coupled to the UV sensor and to the power source. The charging circuitry may use the electrical power to charge the power source. A charger may have a charging cavity configured to receive the rechargeable hearing instrument. A power source within the charger powers a UV light source located within the charger configured to provide UV light to the UV sensor of the rechargeable hearing instrument when the rechargeable hearing instrument is placed within the charging cavity.

In a first aspect there is provided a method for operating a hearing instrument, the method comprising the following steps: measuring an ambient light level at the hearing instrument to provide a measurement result, wherein measuring the ambient light level comprises measuring the ambient light level with a photoplethysmography 'PPG' sensor, and/or wherein measuring the ambient light level further comprises measuring the ambient light level with a spectrometer, to determine a spectral range and intensity correlating to ambient light; recording the measurement result; determining a delta ambient light level based on the detected ambient light level; recording the delta ambient light level; determining whether an absolute value of the delta ambient light level exceeds a predetermined threshold; determining, based on the absolute value of the delta ambient light level exceeding the predetermined threshold and the delta ambient light level being positive, a user has moved to an outdoor environment; and setting a signal processing parameter of the hearing instrument as a function of the determination the user is in the outdoor environment or an indoor environment.

In another example this disclosure describes a method implemented by a hearing instrument configured for insertion into an ear canal of an ear of a user of the hearing instrument, the method comprising: measuring, with a first temperature sensor, a first temperature of the ear canal; measuring, with a second temperature sensor, a second temperature at a location spaced apart from a surface of the ear canal; detecting, using processing circuitry of the hearing instrument and data received from an ultraviolet (UV) sensor, whether the ear canal is at least partially covered; storing, in a memory of the hearing instrument, a pre-established heat balance equation that the processing circuitry utilizes to compensate the heat balance equation based on the ear canal being at least partially covered; and calculating, using the processing circuitry of the hearing instrument, a body temperature of the user using the heat balance equation and the first and second temperatures.

In another example, this disclosure describes a method of manufacturing a hearing instrument, the method comprising: preparing a hearing instrument housing for ultraviolet (UV) adhesive application; applying a UV adhesive to the hearing instrument housing; detecting, with a UV sensor coupled to the hearing instrument, a predetermined amount of UV light; determining, by processing circuitry, when the predetermined amount of UV light is detected; and communicating, by the processing circuitry, completion of the UV light detection process.

In another example, this disclosure describes a method for operating a hearing instrument, the method comprising the following steps: detecting an ultraviolet (UV) light level at the hearing instrument; detecting an infrared light level; determining, based on the UV light level and the infrared light level are consistent with the user being outdoors, that the hearing instrument is uncovered; and determining, based on the UV light level not being consistent with the user being outdoors, that the hearing instrument is covered.

In another example, this disclosure describes a system comprising a rechargeable hearing instrument that comprises: a hearing instrument power source; an ultraviolet (UV) sensor configured to convert received UV light into electrical power; and charging circuitry operatively coupled to the UV sensor and to the power source, wherein the charging circuitry uses the electrical power to charge the power source.

Other features, objects, and advantages of the techniques described in this disclosure will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims.

It may be advantageous to determine the type of environment a hearing instrument user is in. As described in this disclosure, one or more processors of the hearing instrument determine the type of environment based, at least in part, by monitoring lighting conditions via onboard sensors in the hearing instrument. However, it may be difficult to quantify the light-based environment the user is in. To provide better services for a hearing instrument user, it may be desirable to know what the user is doing in their daily lives. It may also be desirable to know when a user may be in harmful environments, such as sun overexposure. Using light sensors built into a hearing instrument (e.g., a hear rate sensor) to track the amount of light exposure a user may be subject to as an input for activity monitoring applications, social engagement applications, energy expenditure applications and outdoors applications. It may also be desirable to track the amount of UV light exposure. Tracking time spent outdoors and to notify the user when they have reached thresholds of UV exposure. A UV sensor may allow for detection of UV light.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example system <NUM> including hearing instruments 102A, 102B, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. This disclosure may refer to hearing instruments 102A and 102B collectively, as "hearing instruments <NUM>. " A user <NUM> may wear hearing instruments <NUM>. In some instances, such as when user <NUM> has unilateral hearing loss, user <NUM> may wear a single hearing instrument. In other instances, such as when user <NUM> has bilateral hearing loss, the user may wear two hearing instruments, with one hearing instrument for each ear of the user. For purposes of discussion any reference to hearing instrument 102A may apply equally to hearing instrument 102B.

Hearing instruments <NUM> may comprise one or more of various types of devices configured to provide auditory stimuli to a user and designed for wear and/or implantation at, on, or near an ear of the user. Hearing instruments <NUM> may be worn, at least partially, in the ear canal or concha. One or more of hearing instruments <NUM> may include behind the ear (BTE) components worn behind the ears of user <NUM>. In some examples, hearing instruments <NUM> comprise devices at least partially implanted into or osseointegrated with the skull of the user. In some examples, one or more of hearing instruments <NUM> are able to provide auditory stimuli to user <NUM> via a bone conduction pathway.

In any of the examples of this disclosure, each of hearing instruments <NUM> may comprise a hearing assistance device. Hearing assistance devices <NUM> include devices helping a user hear sounds in the user's environment. Example types of hearing assistance devices may include hearing aid devices, Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs), cochlear implant systems (which may include cochlear implant magnets, cochlear implant transducers, and cochlear implant processors), and so on. In some examples, hearing instruments <NUM> are over-the-counter, direct-to-consumer, or prescription devices. Furthermore, in some examples, hearing instruments <NUM> include devices providing auditory stimuli to the user corresponding to artificial sounds or sounds not naturally in the user's environment, such as recorded music, computergenerated sounds, or other types of sounds. For instance, hearing instruments <NUM> may include so-called "hearables", earbuds, earphones, or other types of devices. Some types of hearing instruments provide auditory stimuli to the user corresponding to sounds from the user's environmental and also artificial sounds.

In some examples, one or more of hearing instruments <NUM> includes a housing or shell designed to be worn in the ear for both aesthetic and functional reasons and encloses the electronic components of the hearing instrument. Such hearing instruments may be referred to as in-the-ear (ITE), in-the-canal (ITC), completely-in-the-canal (CIC), or invisible-in-the-canal (IIC) devices. In some examples, one or more of hearing instruments <NUM> may be behind-the-ear (BTE) devices, which include a housing worn behind the ear containing all of the electronic components of the hearing instrument, including the receiver (e.g., a speaker). The receiver conducts sound to an earbud inside the ear via an audio tube. In some examples, one or more of hearing instruments <NUM> may be receiver-in-canal (RIC) hearing-assistance devices, which include a housing worn behind the ear containing electronic components and a housing worn in the ear canal containing the receiver.

Hearing instruments <NUM> may implement a variety of features helping user <NUM> hear better. For example, hearing instruments <NUM> may amplify the intensity of incoming sound, amplify the intensity of certain frequencies of the incoming sound, translate or compress frequencies of the incoming sound, and/or perform other functions to improve the hearing of user <NUM>. In another example, hearing instruments <NUM> may implement a directional processing mode in which hearing instruments <NUM> selectively amplify sound originating from a particular direction (e.g., to the front of the user) while potentially fully or partially canceling sound originating from other directions. In other words, a directional processing mode may selectively attenuate off-axis unwanted sounds. The directional processing mode may help users understand conversations occurring in crowds or other noisy environments. In some examples, hearing instruments <NUM> may use beamforming or directional processing cues to implement or augment directional processing modes.

In some examples, hearing instruments <NUM> may reduce noise by canceling out or attenuating certain frequencies. Furthermore, in some examples, hearing instruments <NUM> may help user <NUM> enjoy audio media, such as music or sound components of visual media, by outputting sound based on audio data wirelessly transmitted to hearing instruments <NUM>.

Hearing instruments <NUM> may be configured to communicate with each other. For instance, in any of the examples of this disclosure, hearing instruments <NUM> may communicate with each other using one or more wireless communication technologies. Example types of wireless communication technology include Near-Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI) technology, a <NUM> technology, a BLUETOOTH™ technology, a WI-FI ™ technology, audible sound signals, ultrasonic communication technology, infrared communication technology, an inductive communication technology, or another type of communication not relying on wires to transmit signals between devices. In some examples, hearing instruments <NUM> use a <NUM> frequency band for wireless communication. In examples of this disclosure, hearing instruments <NUM> may communicate with each other via non-wireless communication links, such as via one or more cables, direct electrical contacts, and so on.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, system <NUM> may also include a computing system <NUM>. In other examples, system <NUM> does not include computing system <NUM>. Computing system <NUM> comprises one or more computing devices, each of which may include one or more processors. For instance, computing system <NUM> may comprise one or more mobile devices, server devices, personal computer devices, handheld devices, wireless access points, smart speaker devices, smart televisions, medical alarm devices, smart key fobs, smartwatches, smartphones, motion or presence sensor devices, smart displays, screen-enhanced smart speakers, wireless routers, wireless communication hubs, prosthetic devices, mobility devices, special-purpose devices, accessory devices, and/or other types of devices. Accessory devices may include devices configured specifically for use with hearing instruments <NUM>. Example types of accessory devices may include charging cases for hearing instruments <NUM>, storage cases for hearing instruments <NUM>, media streamer devices, phone streamer devices, external microphone devices, remote controls for hearing instruments <NUM>, and other types of devices specifically designed for use with hearing instruments <NUM>. Actions described in this disclosure as being performed by computing system <NUM> may be performed by one or more of the computing devices of computing system <NUM>. One or more of hearing instruments <NUM> may communicate with computing system <NUM> using wireless or non-wireless communication links. For instance, hearing instruments <NUM> may communicate with computing system <NUM> using any of the example types of communication technologies described elsewhere in this disclosure.

In an example of <FIG>, hearing instruments <NUM> determines whether user <NUM> is in an indoor environment or an outdoor environment. Onboard sensors are configured to detect environmental conditions which assist hearing instruments <NUM> in determining a user's environment: indoors or outdoors. In another example, hearing instruments <NUM> are able to determine whether a user's hair, ear muffs, hat coat, etc. is obfuscating or covering hearing instruments <NUM>. If hearing instruments <NUM> detect the user's hair is covering hearing instruments <NUM>, a correction may be applied to properly determine the user's body temperature as hair covering the hearing instrument may provide a false temperature reading of the user. In another example, hearing instruments <NUM> are configured to be charged with UV wavelengths. Hearing instruments <NUM> may have a UV sensor which senses and converts UV wavelengths into electrical energy which may be used to charge an onboard power source. In another example, a hearing instrument charger may have a UV source which may be used to couple with the hearing instrument UV sensor to charge the onboard power source. In another example, the UV sensor may be used during the hearing instrument manufacturing process. The UV sensor may be utilized during UV curing of UV-curable materials, such as coatings and adhesives. The UV sensor may detect when the UV-curable materials are cured to a particular level based on the amount of UV light which is transferred to the UV sensor.

<FIG> is a block diagram illustrating example components of hearing instrument 102A, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. Hearing instrument 102B may include the same or similar components of hearing instrument 102A shown in the example of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG>, hearing instrument 102A comprises one or more storage devices <NUM>, one or more communication units <NUM>, a receiver <NUM>, one or more processors <NUM>, one or more microphones <NUM>, a set of sensors <NUM>, a power source <NUM>, one or more communication channels <NUM> and a spectrometer <NUM>. Communication channels <NUM> provide communication between storage devices <NUM>, communication unit(s) <NUM>, receiver <NUM>, processor(s) <NUM>, one or more microphones <NUM>, and sensors <NUM>. Components <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> may draw electrical power from power source <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, components <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> are contained within a single housing <NUM>. However, in other examples of this disclosure, components <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> may be distributed among two or more housings. For instance, in an example where hearing instrument 102A is a RIC device, receiver <NUM> and one or more of sensors <NUM> may be included in an in-ear housing separate from a behind-the-ear housing containing the remaining components of hearing instrument 102A. In such examples, a RIC cable may connect the two housings.

Furthermore, in the example of <FIG>, sensors <NUM> include an inertial measurement unit (IMU) <NUM> configured to generate data regarding the motion of hearing instrument 102A. IMU <NUM> may include a set of sensors. For instance, in the example of <FIG>, IMU <NUM> includes one or more accelerometers <NUM>, a gyroscope <NUM>, a magnetometer <NUM>, combinations thereof, and/or other sensors for determining the motion of hearing instrument 102A. Furthermore, in the example of <FIG>, hearing instrument 102A may include one or more additional sensors <NUM>, a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor <NUM>, body temperature sensors <NUM>, environmental temperature sensors <NUM> and UV sensor <NUM>. Additional sensors <NUM> may include blood oximetry sensors, blood pressure sensors, electrocardiograph (EKG) sensors, electroencephalography (EEG) sensors, environmental pressure sensors, environmental humidity sensors, skin galvanic response sensors, and/or other types of sensors. In other examples, hearing instrument 102A and sensors <NUM> may include more, fewer, or different components.

Storage device(s) <NUM> may store data. Storage device(s) <NUM> may comprise volatile memory and may therefore not retain stored contents if powered off. Examples of volatile memories may include random access memories (RAM), dynamic random access memories (DRAM), static random access memories (SRAM), and other forms of volatile memories known in the art. Storage device(s) <NUM> may further be configured for long-term storage of information as non-volatile memory space and retain information after power on/off cycles. Examples of non-volatile memory configurations may include flash memories, or forms of electrically programmable memories (EPROM) or electrically erasable and programmable (EEPROM) memories.

Communication unit(s) <NUM> may enable hearing instrument 102A to send data to and receive data from one or more other devices, such as a device of computing system <NUM> (<FIG>), another hearing instrument (e.g., hearing instrument 102B), an accessory device, a mobile device, or another types of device. Communication unit(s) <NUM> may enable hearing instrument 102A to use wireless or non-wireless communication technologies. For instance, communication unit(s) <NUM> enable hearing instrument 102A to communicate using one or more of various types of wireless technology, such as a BLUETOOTH™ technology, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> LTE, <NUM>, ZigBee, WI-FI™, Near-Field Magnetic Induction (NFMI), ultrasonic communication, infrared (IR) communication, or another wireless communication technology. In some examples, communication unit(s) <NUM> may enable hearing instrument 102A to communicate using a cable-based technology, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) technology.

Receiver <NUM> comprises one or more speakers for generating audible sound. Microphone(s) <NUM> detect incoming sound and generate one or more electrical signals (e.g., an analog or digital electrical signal) representing the incoming sound.

Processor(s) <NUM> may be processing circuits configured to perform various activities. For example, processor(s) <NUM> may process signals generated by microphone(s) <NUM> to enhance, amplify, or cancel-out particular channels within the incoming sound. Processor(s) <NUM> may then cause receiver <NUM> to generate sound based on the processed signals. In some examples, processor(s) <NUM> include one or more digital signal processors (DSPs). In some examples, processor(s) <NUM> may cause communication unit(s) <NUM> to transmit one or more of various types of data. For example, processor(s) <NUM> may cause communication unit(s) <NUM> to transmit data to computing system <NUM>. In some examples, processor(s) <NUM> may read instructions from storage device(s) <NUM> and may execute instructions stored by storage device(s) <NUM>. Execution of the instructions by processor(s) <NUM> may configure or cause hearing instrument 102A to provide at least some of the functionality ascribed in this disclosure to computing device <NUM>. Furthermore, communication unit(s) <NUM> may receive audio data from computing system <NUM> and processor(s) <NUM> may cause receiver <NUM> to output sound based on the audio data.

Spectrometer <NUM> may be an ultra-compact spectrometer chip such as a Hamamatsu C12666MA manufactured by Hamamatsu Photonics of Shizuoka, Japan. The spectrometer <NUM> may be built within a chip and may be integrated into the housing <NUM> of the hearing instrument 102A. Spectrometer <NUM> may have the ability to distinguish energy received at several spectral ranges and determine the amount of UV and any other color of light received. Spectrometer <NUM> may operate similarly to a light sensor. Spectrometer <NUM> may be used to detect UV, visible light and infrared light. The spectrum of light covered may be from <NUM> up to <NUM>. Spectrometer <NUM> may offer an alternative to UV sensor <NUM> and/or PPG sensor <NUM> and/or spectrometer <NUM> may improve upon the data already provided by UV sensor <NUM> and PPG sensor <NUM>.

Spectrometer <NUM> may be an optical spectrometer (often simply called a "spectrometer") that indicates the intensity of light as a function of wavelength or of frequency. Deflection is produced either by refraction in a prism or by diffraction in a diffraction grating. Spectrometers utilize the phenomenon of optical dispersion. The light from a source may consist of a continuous spectrum, an emission spectrum (bright lines), or an absorption spectrum (dark lines). Because each element leaves its spectral signature in the pattern of lines observed, a spectral analysis may reveal the composition of the object analyzed.

According to various examples, the power source <NUM> includes an energy storing device contained in housing <NUM>. Examples of energy storing devices include, but are not limited to, batteries, capacitors, and inductors, and rechargeable batteries, capacitors, and inductors. The term battery, used for various examples, may be used for other types of energy storing devices for purposes of this disclosure.

In varying examples, the power source <NUM> includes charging circuitry <NUM>. The charinging circuitry <NUM> is adapted to charge power source <NUM> within the hearing instrument 102A. In another example, the power source <NUM> is separate from charging circuity <NUM>. Charging circuitry <NUM> may receive energy from other devices, such as UV sensor <NUM>, discussed in greater detail below, and charge power source <NUM>. In another example, charging circuitry <NUM> in configured to couple directly to UV sensor <NUM> and power source <NUM> to convert energy sent by UV sensor <NUM> into a charging energy conditioned to charge power source <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram illustrating example components of computing device <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. <FIG> illustrates only one particular example of computing device <NUM>, and many other example configurations of computing device <NUM> exist. Computing device <NUM> may be a computing device in computing system <NUM> (<FIG>).

As shown in the example of <FIG>, computing device <NUM> includes one or more processors <NUM>, one or more communication units <NUM>, one or more input devices <NUM>, one or more output devices <NUM>, a display screen <NUM>, a power source <NUM>, one or more storage devices <NUM>, and one or more communication channels <NUM>. Computing device <NUM> may include other components. For example, computing device <NUM> may include physical buttons, microphones, speakers, communication ports, and so on. Communication channel(s) <NUM> may interconnect each of components <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> for inter-component communications (physically, communicatively, and/or operatively). In some examples, communication channel(s) <NUM> may include a system bus, a network connection, an inter-process communication data structure, or any other method for communicating data. Power source <NUM> may provide electrical energy to components <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>.

Storage device(s) <NUM> may store information required for use during operation of computing device <NUM>. In some examples, storage device(s) <NUM> have the primary purpose of being a short term and not a long-term computer-readable storage medium. Storage device(s) <NUM> may be volatile memory and may therefore not retain stored contents if powered off. Storage device(s) <NUM> may further be configured for long-term storage of information as non-volatile memory space and retain information after power on/off cycles. In some examples, processor(s) <NUM> on computing device <NUM> read and may execute instructions stored by storage device(s) <NUM>.

Computing device <NUM> may include one or more input device(s) <NUM> computing device <NUM> uses to receive user input. Examples of user input include tactile, audio, and video user input. Input device(s) <NUM> may include presence-sensitive screens, touchsensitive screens, mice, keyboards, voice responsive systems, microphones or other types of devices for detecting input from a human or machine.

Communication unit(s) <NUM> may enable computing device <NUM> to send data to and receive data from one or more other computing devices (e.g., via a communications network, such as a local area network or the Internet). For instance, communication unit(s) <NUM> may be configured to receive data exported by hearing instrument(s) <NUM>, receive data generated by user <NUM> of hearing instrument(s) <NUM>, receive and send request data, receive and send messages, and so on. In some examples, communication unit(s) <NUM> may include wireless transmitters and receivers enabling computing device <NUM> to communicate wirelessly with the other computing devices. For instance, in the example of <FIG>, communication unit(s) <NUM> include a radio <NUM> enabling computing device <NUM> to communicate wirelessly with other computing devices, such as hearing instruments <NUM> (<FIG>). Examples of communication unit(s) <NUM> may include network interface cards, Ethernet cards, optical transceivers, radio frequency transceivers, or other types of devices able to send and receive information. Other examples of such communication units may include BLUETOOTH™, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and WI-FI™ radios, Universal Serial Bus (USB) interfaces, etc. Computing device <NUM> may use communication unit(s) <NUM> to communicate with one or more hearing instruments (e.g., hearing instrument <NUM> (<FIG>, <FIG>)). Additionally, computing device <NUM> may use communication unit(s) <NUM> to communicate with one or more other remote devices.

Output device(s) <NUM> may generate output. Examples of output include tactile, audio, and video output. Output device(s) <NUM> may include presence-sensitive screens, sound cards, video graphics adapter cards, speakers, liquid crystal displays (LCD), or other types of devices for generating output.

Processor(s) <NUM> may read instructions from storage device(s) <NUM> and may execute instructions stored by storage device(s) <NUM>. Execution of the instructions by processor(s) <NUM> may configure or cause computing device <NUM> to provide at least some of the functionality ascribed in this disclosure to computing device <NUM>. As shown in the example of <FIG>, storage device(s) <NUM> include computer-readable instructions associated with operating system <NUM>, application modules 322A-322N (collectively, "application modules <NUM>"), and a companion application <NUM>.

Execution of instructions associated with operating system <NUM> may cause computing device <NUM> to perform various functions to manage hardware resources of computing device <NUM> and to provide various common services for other computer programs. Execution of instructions associated with application modules <NUM> may cause computing device <NUM> to provide one or more of various applications (e.g., "apps," operating system applications, etc.). Application modules <NUM> may provide particular applications, such as text messaging (e.g., SMS) applications, instant messaging applications, email applications, social media applications, text composition applications, and so on.

Execution of instructions associated with companion application <NUM> by processor(s) <NUM> may cause computing device <NUM> to perform one or more of various functions. For example, execution of instructions associated with companion application <NUM> may cause computing device <NUM> to configure communication unit(s) <NUM> to receive data from hearing instruments <NUM> and use the received data to present data to a user, such as user <NUM> or a third-party user. In some examples, companion application <NUM> is an instance of a web application or server application. In some examples, such as examples where computing device <NUM> is a mobile device or other type of computing device, companion application <NUM> may be a native application.

Computing device <NUM> may provide information about a user's environment, which may be used by hearing instrument <NUM> in determining a user's environment; such as user <NUM> being indoors or outdoors. Computing device <NUM> may read local UVI (ultraviolet index) and climate information and communicate this information to hearing instrument <NUM>. Hearing instruments <NUM> may use this UV and climate information to determine whether user <NUM> is located indoor or outdoor based upon sensor readings.

<FIG> is an overhead perspective view of a recharging system including a UV charging apparatus and a rechargeable device in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. An example recharging system <NUM> is shown including a UV charger <NUM> and a rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM>. Rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> may be a hearing instrument similar to 102A or 102B having a power source <NUM> and charging circuitry <NUM>. As shown in the example of <FIG>, rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> is a BTE with a RIC. However, recharging system <NUM> may accept other types of hearing instruments. Rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> may interface with UV charger <NUM> in a variety of orientations for charging and for protection while charging.

UV charger <NUM> has an open position in which UV charger <NUM> may receive rechargeable device <NUM> for charging. A charging cavity <NUM> may be defined by UV charger <NUM> for receiving a body of rechargeable device <NUM> (e.g., housing <NUM> (<FIG>)) having a UV sensor <NUM> (see <FIG>). An extension portion <NUM> of the rechargeable device <NUM> is receivable into a well <NUM> of the UV charger <NUM>. Extension portion <NUM> may include a RIC cable and an in-ear receiver assembly. UV charger <NUM> may include a liner <NUM> and UV light sources <NUM>, <NUM> that define charging cavity <NUM>. UV light sources <NUM>, <NUM> make it possible to charge the rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM>. By having a dual-purpose UV sensor <NUM> and charge circuit in rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM>, any charging contacts may be removed from the rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> and from the UV charger <NUM>. Charging contacts may be problematic because charging contacts may need to be protected from electrostatic discharge, increase material ingress probability and they may become corroded, thus lowering the charging efficiency.

Charging cavity <NUM> may be sized and shaped to receive any rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> for charging. For example, rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> may be rested on either side and in various rotational orientations while resting in charging cavity <NUM>.

UV charger <NUM> may include a base <NUM> and a lid <NUM>, which may be opened for exposing charging cavity <NUM> and may be closed to initiate charging of rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM>. UV charger <NUM> may also include a pin assembly <NUM> for disconnecting the electrical connection between UV light sources <NUM> of base <NUM> and UV light sources <NUM> of lid <NUM>, for example, when lid <NUM> is opened. In some examples, rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> may not be charged until lid <NUM> is closed.

Rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> may be a hearing device, such as those discussed above and the BTE, as shown in the illustration. As discussed above, rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> may have a UV sensor <NUM>. UV sensor <NUM> may be placed within the housing <NUM>. UV sensor <NUM> provides a charging path from the exterior (e.g., outer surface) of rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> to a power source <NUM> (see <FIG>) within housing <NUM>, which may be used to power rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> and may require recharging from time-to-time. Housing <NUM> may include more than one UV sensor <NUM>.

In some examples, rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> may be placed in UV charger <NUM> in any manner. For example, UV light source <NUM> of lid <NUM> provides enough UV light to charge rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> if rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> is placed within cavity <NUM> where UV sensor <NUM> is only facing lid <NUM>. Similarly, if rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> is turned where UV sensor <NUM> is facing base <NUM>, UV light source <NUM> provides enough light to charge rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM>. Further, when UV light sources <NUM> and <NUM> are radiating UV light, the UV light may radiate throughout cavity <NUM>. In some examples, cavity <NUM> is covered in a reflective coating where the UV light may fill the entire cavity thus providing UV sensor <NUM> with enough UV light to create a voltage capable of providing a charge to power source <NUM>. In some examples, one or both of the UV
charger <NUM> and the rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> may include power management electronics.

Lid <NUM> may be moved into a closed position with rechargeable hearing instrument <NUM> in place, and lid <NUM> may be secured to base <NUM> by a securing mechanism <NUM>, such as a releasable tab and detent assembly. In the closed position, UV light sources <NUM>, <NUM> may power on or the user may select an on/off switch so lid <NUM> may be closed to prevent dust from accumulating in cavity <NUM> without powering on UV light sources <NUM>, <NUM>.

Pin assembly <NUM> of UV charger <NUM> may be at least partially disposed on base <NUM> and lid <NUM>. For example, pin assembly <NUM> may include two opposing pins (e.g., pogo pins), with one attached to each of base <NUM> and lid <NUM>, and at least one pin being spring-loaded to engage the other when lid <NUM> is closed. Pin assembly <NUM> may separate the pins to electrically uncouple or disconnect one or more UV sources <NUM> of lid <NUM> from power source <NUM> when lid <NUM> is opened. The separable portions of pin assembly <NUM> may engage to electrically couple or connect UV sources <NUM> of lid <NUM> to power source <NUM> when lid <NUM> is closed. As the opposing pins engage and disengage, the pins may scratch one another, thereby removing debris from one another.

In some examples, UV charger <NUM> includes a power switch (e.g., an on/off switch). In some examples, closing lid <NUM> turns on UV charger <NUM> or otherwise completes a circuit to activate charging and opening lid <NUM> turns off UV charger <NUM> or otherwise breaks the circuit. With the addition of UV sensor <NUM>. hearing instrument <NUM>, <NUM> may user the UV converted energy to charge power source <NUM>. High power UV LEDs <NUM> and <NUM> provide the UV light source for UV sensor <NUM>. With a dual-purpose UV sensor <NUM> and charge circuit, charging contacts may be removed from hearing instrument <NUM>.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an example operation <NUM> in which processor(s) <NUM> of hearing instrument 102A categorizes an environment of user <NUM> based on signals from PPG sensor <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. Although the example of <FIG> is described with respect to hearing instrument 102A, <FIG> may be equally applicable to hearing instrument 102B.

PPG sensor <NUM> may comprise an onboard light-emitting diode (LED) and a set of one or more photodiodes. The onboard LED of PPG sensor <NUM> outputs flashes of light. The photodiodes of PPG sensor <NUM> generate electrical signals in response to light, include the flashes of light generated by the onboard LED of PPG sensor <NUM>. The electrical signals generated by the photodiodes of PPG sensor <NUM> may be dependent on the amount of light transmitted or reflected to the photodiodes of PPG sensor <NUM>. In other words, the electrical signals generated by the photodiodes of PPG sensor <NUM> may be dependent on the level of light striking the photodiodes of PPG sensor <NUM>. Human skin absorbs and reflects different amount of light depending on blood perfusion within the skin. The blood perfusion is modulated with heart rate. Hence, by monitoring the electrical signals generated by the photodiodes of PPG sensor <NUM> in response to flashes of light generated by the onboard LED of PPG sensor <NUM>, processor(s) <NUM> may determine the heart rate of user <NUM>.

In general, it is only necessary for the photodiodes of PPG sensor <NUM> to measure overall light levels, and not light levels at particular wavelengths, to determine the heart rate of user <NUM>. Hence, PPG sensor <NUM> may not be configured to distinguish the wavelengths of light detected. Rather, photons striking the photodiodes of PPG sensor <NUM> may be converted to electrical signals from which the original wavelengths (or energy level) may not be distinguished.

In accordance with a technique of this disclosure, hearing instrument 102A may use ambient light levels detected by PPG sensor <NUM> to categorize a current environment of user <NUM>. The ambient light level is a light level in between flashes of the onboard LED of PPG sensor <NUM>. Using ambient light levels detected by PPG sensor <NUM> to categorize the current environment of user <NUM> may be advantageous because PPG sensor <NUM> may potentially be used for both categorizing the current environment of user <NUM> and also detecting the heart rate of user <NUM>.

However, there may be a number of challenges associated with using PPG sensor <NUM> to categorize the current environment of user <NUM> and detect the heart rate of user <NUM>. For example, PPG sensor <NUM> may face the skin of user <NUM> to measure the heart rate of user <NUM>. This may cause problems in detecting ambient light levels because the ambient light levels detected by PPG sensor <NUM> may depend on skin pigmentation of user <NUM>, a level of fit of hearing instrument 102A, internal structures and composition of tissue in contact with PPG sensor <NUM>, and/or other factors. These variables make it difficult to set a universal threshold for all users in determining the current environment of the users, such as whether the users are indoors or outdoors. Similarly, going outdoors on a cloud day versus a sunny day may also increase the difficulty of determining the current environment of user <NUM>.

The techniques of this disclosure may address one or more of these challenges. For instance, in the example of <FIG>, operation <NUM> may begin with PPG sensor <NUM> measuring an ambient light level at the hearing instrument 102A to provide a measurement result (<NUM>). The ambient light level is a light level in between flashes of the onboard LED of PPG sensor <NUM>. In accordance with a technique of this disclosure, hearing instrument 102A may use the detected ambient light level to categorize a current environment of user <NUM>.

Furthermore, in the example of <FIG>, processor(s) <NUM> of hearing instrument 102A may obtain local weather information (<NUM>). The local weather information may include information about the weather (e.g., current temperature, current cloudiness, current relative humidity, etc.) of a location of user <NUM>. The local weather information may indicate whether the current weather is cloudy or rainy. In such a weather condition, the ambient light level threshold to indicate an "outdoor" condition may be set lower than when the weather is sunny. In addition to the UV thresholds the IR/UV ratios (discussed in more detail below) can be adjusted as well with weather information. Processor(s) <NUM> may obtain the local weather information in one or more of a variety of ways. For example, processor(s) <NUM> may obtain the local weather information via a wireless or wired-based communication link with computing system <NUM> (<FIG>) or another computing system. In some examples, processor(s) <NUM> may communicate with a mobile telephone of user <NUM> to retrieve the local weather information from a remote server. In some examples, processor(s) <NUM> may categorize the current environment of user <NUM> without obtaining the local weather information. Hence, the action of processor(s) <NUM> obtaining the local weather information is indicated in a broken line.

In the example of <FIG>, storage device <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM> records or stores data indicating the ambient light level detected by PPG sensor <NUM> (<NUM>). Further, processor(s) <NUM> determines a delta ambient light level based on the ambient light level detected by PPG sensor <NUM> (<NUM>). The delta ambient light level indicates a difference between the ambient light level detected by PPG sensor <NUM> and a previous ambient light level detected by PPG sensor <NUM>. For example, the delta ambient light level may indicate a change between an ambient light level detected by PPG sensor <NUM> at time ti and a previous ambient light level detected by PPG sensor <NUM> at time ti-<NUM>. Storage device <NUM> also stores or records the delta ambient light levels (<NUM>).

Processor(s) <NUM> determines the current environment of user <NUM> based on the delta ambient light level. For instance, in the example of <FIG>, processor(s) <NUM> determines if an absolute value of the delta ambient light level exceeds a predetermined threshold (<NUM>). Processor(s) <NUM> may perform this determination on a periodic basis, on an event-driven basis, or according to another regime.

If the absolute value of the delta ambient light level does not exceed the threshold ("NO" branch of <NUM>), then processor(s) <NUM> may determine that the current environment of user <NUM> has not changed (<NUM>). For purposes of examples of the disclosure, threshold may be defined as the magnitude or intensity that must be exceeded for a certain reaction, phenomenon, result, or condition to occur or be manifested. The threshold may be a predetermined number based upon the user's location (e.g., a user located near the equator vs. a user located in the northern hemisphere). The threshold may be a reading twice, three times, four times or more of a normal indoor ambient light level. The threshold cold be definable based upon the user's habits. Thus, hearing instrument <NUM> may ask user <NUM> if he/she is outside when the ambient light level nears or exceeds the threshold. If user <NUM> answers affirmatively, hearing instrument <NUM> may set the measured delta value as a new threshold for further operation.

However, in response to determining that the absolute value of the delta ambient light level exceeds the threshold ("YES" branch of <NUM>), processor(s) <NUM> determines if the delta ambient light level is positive (<NUM>). If the delta ambient light level is threshold is not positive (i.e., the delta ambient light level is negative) ("NO" branch of <NUM>), processor(s) <NUM> may determine that user <NUM> has moved to an indoor environment from an outdoor environment (<NUM>). If the delta ambient light level is positive ("YES" branch of <NUM>), processor(s) <NUM> determines that user <NUM> has moved to an outdoor environment from an indoor environment (<NUM>).

Using changes in ambient light level (i.e., delta ambient light levels) over a predetermined time period, such as a typical day, and not absolute levels of ambient light may resolve one or more of the challenges described above with respect to using PPG sensor <NUM> to determine the current environment of user <NUM>. Typically, the delta (i.e., change) of ambient light levels from indoor to outdoor is a magnitude larger than most changes in a typical indoor environment, even on a cloudy day. Thus, with certain exceptions (e.g., the user <NUM> purposely exposing themselves to a sunlamp for an extended period of time), processor(s) <NUM> may be able to distinguish the relative change from indoor to outdoor, even if the current environment of user <NUM> may not be determined based solely on absolute ambient light levels detected by PPG sensor <NUM>.

In some examples, PPG sensor <NUM> may be modified to assist in the environment operation <NUM>. Optical materials may be used to filter the wavelengths of light detected by PPG sensor <NUM> so that PPG sensor <NUM> is at least only sensitive to a certain frequency range of light. This filtering may better differentiate between a bright indoor environment, which has high levels of visible photons and thus not be confused with the outdoors which also has high levels of IR light. For example, an optical coating may be applied to PPG sensor <NUM> which would only allow a handful of specific wavelengths to enter the sensor, but still block out most other wavelengths. Through filtering, PPG sensor <NUM> may reduce any light frequencies that PPG sensor <NUM> is unconcerned with or which may cause a false reading at PPG sensor <NUM>. By filtering out the wavelengths by IR light, the absolute delta ambient light levels between indoor and outdoor light will be larger. Further, flipping a light switch to the on position indoors may change the ambient light levels in the visible range, but not change the ambient light levels in the IR range. Thus, while the ambient light levels may indicate a change from inside to outside the IR range would not provide such an indication. The filter/coating may also allow through the frequency of the light generated by the LED of PPG sensor <NUM>. Thus, PPG sensor <NUM> may also be used for regular PPG heart rate detection.

In some examples, multiple photosensors, which are sensitive to a specific wavelength for each photosensor, may be used. Thus, an optical coating on PPG sensor <NUM> may not be necessary as hearing instrument <NUM> would have a photosensor for each wavelength of interest (e.g., ambient, IR) and filtering of PPG sensor <NUM> may not be necessary as the photosensors would provide accurate data. Further, an optical grating or hologram may be used to separate the multiple wavelengths and then sensed on multiple photodetectors. The optical grating or hologram may split the wavelengths and route to multiple photodetectors or PPG sensor <NUM> thus ensuring only wavelengths of interest are measured. An optical grating or hologram may employ a similar technique as described above in relation to spectrometer <NUM>. Using a grating or prism the light is spread into different wavelengths and multiple sensors may be used to sense a wavelength of interest. The grating separates the light into different frequencies (e.g., like a rainbow) and then only specific frequencies land on specific sensors.

UV sensor <NUM> may be integrated into the determination of whether user <NUM> is indoors or outdoors. UV sensor <NUM> may measure the amount of UV light received, which allows the same type of environment categorization at discussed with reference to <FIG>. However, UV sensor <NUM> may offer improved indoor/outdoor resolution. A UV measurement may also allow processor(s) <NUM> to determine an amount of UV exposure user <NUM> has had and provide notifications to user <NUM> in the event of overexpose to UV radiation. Further, a detection of a UV measurement higher than a reference threshold, by processor(s) <NUM>, may be considered exposure to an artificial UV light source (e.g., a UV disinfection lamp in a hospital). Additionally, computing device <NUM> may provide local UVI (ultraviolet index) and climate information which may be used as a reference to provide a better determination of whether user <NUM> was indoor or outdoor. If the UVI is low on certain day, the threshold may be set lower and vice versa if the UVI is higher on a certain day. It may assist in making an outdoor classification more accurate.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an example operation <NUM> to determine whether hearing instrument 102A is covered in accordance with one or more techniques described in this disclosure. Although <FIG> is described with respect to hearing instrument 102A and components thereof, the discussion of <FIG> may apply equally with respect to hearing instrument 102B and components of hearing instrument 102B.

In the example of <FIG>, processor(s) <NUM> may determine a UV light level (<NUM>). The UV light level may be a level of UV light detected by a sensor (e.g., UV sensor <NUM>, spectrometer <NUM>, etc.) of hearing instrument 102A. Processor(s) <NUM> may determine whether user <NUM> is indoors or outdoors based on ambient light, e.g., ambient light detected by PPG sensor <NUM> (<NUM>). Processor(s) <NUM> may determine whether user <NUM> is indoors or outdoors based on ambient light detected by PPG sensor <NUM> in one of a variety of ways. For example, processor(s) <NUM> may perform the method of <FIG> to determine whether user <NUM> is indoors or outdoors based on ambient light detected by PPG sensor <NUM>. In some examples, processor(s) <NUM> may use a signal generated by spectrometer <NUM> to determine whether user <NUM> is indoors or outdoors.

Further, processor(s) <NUM> may also use an input from a spectrometer <NUM> to assist in determining whether user <NUM> is indoors or outdoors. Processor(s) <NUM> may then make a better determination whether user <NUM> was indoors or outdoors. For example, processor(s) <NUM> may base the determination on whether a weighted average; such as two or more inputs (e.g., a UV level and an ambient light level) indicate the user <NUM> is indoors; therefore, the user <NUM> is determined to be indoors. In another example, each input may be weighted based upon its reliability. Spectrometer <NUM> may be weighted more heavily because spectrometer <NUM> is able to differentiate between the wavelengths, UV sensor <NUM> may be weighted lower and PPG sensor <NUM> may be weighted even lower because PPG sensor <NUM> may be unable to differentiate between the wavelengths. Then, based upon the weighted averages, processor(s) <NUM> may determine if a set threshold based upon the weighted averages are surpassed to determine whether user <NUM> is indoors or outdoors. For example, if spectrometer <NUM> had a <NUM>% reliability rate in accurately predicting whether a user was indoors or outdoors, UV sensor <NUM> has a <NUM>% reliability rate and PPG sensor <NUM> had a <NUM>% reliability rate; then a possible weighted value may be represented by the equation: weighted value=[. <NUM>*spectrometer value +. <NUM>*UV value +. <NUM>*PPG value].

If the user is not outdoors (e.g., if threshold is not met or surpassed) ("NO" branch of <NUM>), processor(s) <NUM> determines user <NUM> is indoors (<NUM>). If the user is outdoors (e.g., the threshold is met or surpassed) ("YES" branch of <NUM>), processor(s) <NUM> may determine whether a UV light level is consistent with user <NUM> being outdoors (<NUM>). If the UV light level is consistent with user <NUM> being outdoors ("YES" branch of <NUM>), processor(s) <NUM> may determine nothing is covering hearing instrument 102A (<NUM>). If the UV light level is not consistent with user <NUM> being outdoors ("NO" branch of <NUM>), processor(s) <NUM> may determine something is covering hearing instrument 102A (<NUM>). For example, a user's hair, a user's hat, a user's coat or any other obstruction may be covering hearing instrument 102A. If any object is covering hearing instrument 102A, the obstruction may throw off calculations and determinations hearing instrument 102A performs for user <NUM>; such as temperature calculations, which are discussed in greater detail below.

A determination of whether the UV light level is consistent with user <NUM> being outdoors can be made in a number of ways. For example, if spectrometer <NUM> senses an infrared (IR) input possibly detecting an outdoor environment (i.e., IR light is greater outdoor than indoors), but UV sensor <NUM> does not have an increased input, expected relative to an IR/UV ratio of outdoor light, then a determination may be made that something is covering hearing instrument 102A. The IR/UV ratio derives from the sun and atmosphere absorption spectrums. The ratio is very consistent across the Earth but may change with time of day because the sun has to travel through a larger amount of atmosphere at sun down versus sun up. For example, since UV light is absorbed more readily than IR light by hair, processor(s) <NUM> may determine whether hair is covering the hearing instrument 102A. Additionally, a reference UVI (i.e., the ultraviolet index or UV Index is an international standard measurement of the strength of UV radiation at a particular place and time) may be obtained for a given day from computing device <NUM>. If a UV measurement made by UV sensor <NUM> is below the UVI, then processor(s) <NUM> may determine that something (e.g., the user's hair) is likely to be covering hearing instrument 102A. However, if other sensors onboard hearing instrument 102A are providing measurements consistent with user <NUM> being outdoors, then a determination may be made by processor(s) <NUM> user <NUM> has nothing covering hearing instrument 102A.

<FIG> is an illustration of a person's ear <NUM> and, in particular, the ear canal722. The ear <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> shows a number of anatomical features near the ear line <NUM>, including the antitragus <NUM>, concha <NUM>, helix <NUM>, and tragus <NUM>. The ear canal <NUM> includes a proximal section <NUM> between the tragus <NUM> and a first bend <NUM> of the canal <NUM>. A middle section <NUM> is shown between the first bend <NUM> and a second bend <NUM> of the canal <NUM>. A distal section <NUM> is shown between the second bend <NUM> and an ear drum <NUM>.

Hair detection or hearing instrument 102A obfuscation may be used for temperature compensation in which to provide a more accurate temperature reading in outdoor environments. The temperature in the ear may be slightly elevated when covered by hair as the hair acts an insulator and keeps the body warm. If it is known that hair is causing the ear canal to be slightly warmer (e.g., <NUM> warmer) a correction to the measurement may be made. <FIG> is an example operation to determine a body temperature of user <NUM> in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. Examples are directed to devices and methods measuring temperature at a preferred location of ear canal <NUM> (<FIG>), from which absolute core body temperature may be calculated using a heat balance equation in accordance with various examples. For example, two points in the ear canal could be measured. A difference between the two measurements could be multiplied by a factor and added to the inner temperature. Examples of <FIG> may be directed to devices and methods measuring temperature at a location of ear canal <NUM> (and other locations within or external of ear canal <NUM> as described herein) using a temperature sensor(s) configured to sense conductive (e.g., transferable through the skin) and/or convective heat (e.g., transferable through the air) rather than radiative heat.

In the example of <FIG> involves measuring <NUM> a first temperature with a first temperature sensor at the tragus-side <NUM> (<FIG>) of the ear canal <NUM> between the first bend <NUM> and the second bend <NUM>. Temperature sensors may be body temperature sensor <NUM>, environmental temperature sensor <NUM> and/or part of additional sensors <NUM> on hearing instrument 102A. The method involves measuring a second temperature at a location spaced apart from a surface of the ear canal <NUM> and proximal of an ear canal location where the first temperature is measured (in an outer ear direction) (<NUM>). For example, the second temperature may be measured at a location spaced apart from the ear canal surface and exterior to the first bend <NUM> (e.g., within the ear canal or other outer ear location or exterior of the ear). By way of further example, the second temperature may be measured at a location spaced apart from the ear canal surface and exterior to the second bend <NUM> and interior to the first bend <NUM>. The first and second temperatures are preferably indicative of conductive and/or convective heat, rather than radiative heat. The method further involves storing <NUM>, in a storage device <NUM>, a pre-established heat balance equation. Processor(s) <NUM> calculates the body temperature based on the first temperature, the second temperature, and data indicating whether hearing instrument 102A is covered (<NUM>). Processor(s) <NUM> may use the compensated body temperature for other processes of hearing instrument 102A (<NUM>). For example, if hair or other object were covering hearing instrument 102A, and the first and the second temperature sensor were providing a body temperature lower than actual as user <NUM> was outside in the sun, processor(s) <NUM> may correct for the difference in temperature measured due to the coverage of hearing instrument 102A by the user's hair, which would block the sun's rays causing an inaccurate temperature reading.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an example operation in accordance with one or more example techniques described in this disclosure. In a hearing instrument manufacturing process, it may be difficult to determine when a UV adhesive, used in the construction of the housing <NUM>, is properly cured. As different UV lamps, used to cure the UV adhesive, may have different flux rates, the timing needed for curing the UV adhesive may vary and because of this efficiency in the manufacturing process may be lost based on the inability to know when a UV adhesive is properly cured.

In manufacturing operation <NUM>, UV sensor <NUM> is utilized in a hearing instrument manufacturing process to measure the amount of time UV adhesive is exposed to UV light. A hearing instrument shell or housing <NUM> having internal electronics, like those identified in <FIG> are prepared to have a UV adhesive applied (<NUM>). A UV adhesive is applied to the shell or housing <NUM> which is cured utilizing UV light (<NUM>). UV sensor <NUM> may be utilized to sense the amount of UV light penetrating the shell or housing <NUM> (<NUM>). Processor(s) <NUM> may determine when a predetermined amount of light is detected based upon the amount of UV light penetrating the housing <NUM> (<NUM>). For example, processor(s) <NUM> may determine whether the UV adhesive is properly cured. Based upon the amount of UV light penetrating the housing <NUM>, processor(s) <NUM> may determine whether the UV adhesive is cured and thus make the curing process more efficient and timelier as the UV sensor <NUM> and processor(s) <NUM> may determine precisely when the UV adhesive is properly cured. This is due to the properties of UV adhesive and the amount of UV light to which the UV adhesive has been exposed. When processor(s) <NUM> determine the predetermined amount of UV light has been detected, a notification may be sent via communication unit(s) <NUM> to terminate the UV light source, notify a technician, or instruct a machine to remove the hearing instrument to a location associated with a next stage of an assembly process (<NUM>).

In this disclosure, ordinal terms such as "first," "second," "third," and so on, are not necessarily indicators of positions within an order, but rather may be used to distinguish different instances of the same thing. Examples provided in this disclosure may be used together, separately, or in various combinations. Furthermore, with respect to examples involving personal data regarding a user, it may be required such personal data only be used with the permission of the user.

If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over, as one or more instructions or code, a computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processing unit. Computer-readable media may include computer-readable storage media, which corresponds to a tangible medium such as data storage media, or communication media including any medium facilitating transfer of a computer program from one place to another, e.g., according to a communication protocol. Data storage media may be any available media accessible by one or more computers or one or more processing circuits to retrieve instructions, code and/or data structures for implementation of the techniques described in this disclosure.

By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable storage media may comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage devices, flash memory, cache memory, or any other medium able to be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and may be accessed by a computer. It should be understood, however, computer-readable storage media and data storage media do not include connections, carrier waves, signals, or other transient media, but are instead directed to non-transient, tangible storage media.

Functionality described in this disclosure may be performed by fixed function and/or programmable processing circuitry. For instance, instructions may be executed by fixed function and/or programmable processing circuitry. Such processing circuitry may include one or more processors, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general purpose microprocessors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable logic arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuitry. In addition, in some respects, the functionality described herein may be provided within dedicated hardware and/or software modules. Also, the techniques may be fully implemented in one or more circuits or logic elements. Processing circuits may be coupled to other components in various ways. For example, a processing circuit may be coupled to other components via an internal device interconnect, a wired or wireless network connection, or another communication medium.

Claim 1:
A method (<NUM>) for operating a hearing instrument (102A, 102B), the method comprising the following steps:
measuring (<NUM>) an ambient light level at the hearing instrument (102A, 102B) to provide a measurement result, wherein measuring the ambient light level comprises measuring the ambient light level with a photoplethysmography 'PPG' sensor (<NUM>), and/or wherein measuring the ambient light level further comprises measuring the ambient light level with a spectrometer (<NUM>) to determine a spectral range and intensity correlating to ambient light;
recording (<NUM>) the measurement result;
determining (<NUM>) a delta ambient light level based on the detected ambient light level;
recording (<NUM>) the delta ambient light level;
determining (<NUM>) whether an absolute value of the delta ambient light level exceeds a predetermined threshold;
determining (<NUM>, <NUM>), based on the absolute value of the delta ambient light level exceeding the predetermined threshold and the delta ambient light level being positive, a user has moved to an outdoor environment; and
setting a signal processing parameter of the hearing instrument (102A, 102B) as a function of the determination the user is in the outdoor environment or an indoor environment.