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 (or a portion thereof) may be implanted or osseointegrated 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 can even communicate wirelessly with external devices including other hearing instruments (e.g., for streaming media).

<CIT> discloses a hearing and a charging device. The charging device has a plug-in element which is arranged and shaped in such a way that it can be plugged into an opening of the hearing aid. Charging contacts are arranged on the plug-in element.

<CIT> discloses an electrical connector comprising a conductive contact surface, wherein a plurality of fibers apply a spring force on the contact surface to provide a solution that is easy to adjust to various sizes and shapes of contacts.

This disclosure describes an accessory device for a hearing instrument. The accessory device comprises a connector tip that comprises a first wire segment and a second wire segment. The first and second wire segments are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other. The connector tip also comprises a first set of bristles and a second set of bristles. The first and second sets of bristles are electrically conductive. The first set of bristles is electrically connected to the first wire segment and electrically insulated from the second wire segment. The second set of bristles is electrically connected to the second wire segment and electrically insulated from the first wire segment. The first set of bristles is spaced from the second set of bristles as to prevent a short circuit between the first and second sets of bristles due to bending of a bristle of the first or second sets of bristles. The first wire segment and the second wire segment are helically twisted around a shared axis.

In one example, this disclosure describes an accessory device for a hearing instrument, the accessory device comprising: a connector tip that comprises: a first wire segment and a second wire segment, wherein: the first and second wire segments are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other, the first wire segment has a first contact surface configured to provide a first electrical connection between the first wire segment and a first electrical terminal, and the second wire segment has a second contact surface configured to provide a second electrical connection between the second wire segment and a second electrical terminal; and a first set of bristles and a second set of bristles, wherein: the first and second sets of bristles are electrically conductive, the first set of bristles is electrically connected to the first wire segment and electrically insulated from the second wire segment, the second set of bristles is electrically connected to the second wire segment and electrically insulated from the first wire segment, and the first set of bristles is spaced from the second set of bristles as to prevent a short circuit between the first and second sets of bristles due to bending of a bristle of the first or second sets of bristles. The first wire segment and the second wire segment are helically twisted around a shared axis.

In another example, this disclosure describes a method comprising assembling a connector tip for an accessory device for a hearing instrument, wherein assembling the connector tip comprises: attaching a first set of bristles to an electrically uninsulated portion of a first wire segment, wherein the first set of bristles and the first wire segment are electrically conductive; attaching a second set of bristles to an electrically uninsulated portion of a second wire segment, wherein the second set of bristles and the second wire segment are electrically conductive; positioning the first and second wire segments substantially parallel to one another such that the first and second wire segments are in contact with each other, but no uninsulated portion of the first wire segment is in contact with the uninsulated portion of the second wire segment and no uninsulated portion of the second wire segment is in contact with the uninsulated portion of the first wire segment; and twisting the first and second wire segments around a shared axis such that the first and second sets of bristles spread out radially from the shared axis and the first and second wire segments form a double helix around the shared axis, wherein: after twisting the first and second wire segments, the first set of bristles is spaced from the second set of bristles as to prevent a short circuit between the first and second sets of bristles due to bending of a bristle of the first or second sets of bristles.

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

A hearing instrument may contain a rechargeable battery that provides electrical energy to various electronic components of the hearing instrument. Additionally, it may be desirable for hearing instruments to have cable-based communication capabilities. However, attaching power and communication cables to hearing instruments has proven to be challenging. Many in-ear hearing instruments are tailored to fit the unique anatomical shapes of individual users' ear canals. The resulting variability in the size and shape of in-ear hearing instruments may make it difficult to design places to attach cables to the in-ear hearing instrument. Additionally, in prior hearing instruments, attachment points of such cables may involve moving parts that are susceptible to debris or water intrusion and may be prone to mechanical fatigue.

Many hearing instruments, such as hearing aids or other ear-wearable devices, have vents that allow internally generated sound to exit the user's ear canal from portions of users' ear canals medial to the hearing instruments and the outside environment. Thus, a hearing instrument may have a shell formed (e.g., molded) for wear in an ear of a user. For instance, the shell may be shaped such that at least a portion of the shell may be inserted into an ear canal of an ear of the user. The shell has a lateral surface and a medial surface. The lateral surface of the shell is distal to a midline of the user when the hearing instrument is worn by the user. The medial surface of the shell is proximal to the midline of the user when the hearing instrument is worn by the user. Furthermore, the shell has a tunnel wall. The tunnel wall is a portion of the shell shaped to define a tunnel that passes through the in-ear hearing instrument from the lateral surface of the shell to the medial surface of the shell and is open at both the lateral surface of the shell and the medial surface of the shell.

In accordance with the techniques of this disclosure, two or more electrical contact pads (which may be referred to herein simply as "contact pads") are positioned within the shell. The contact pads are conductors from one or more electrical components (e.g., a rechargeable battery, processor, etc.) that are encased within the shell. The tunnel wall defines one or more electrical contact pad apertures (which may be referred to herein simply as "contact pad apertures") through which distal ends of the electrical contact pads pass. For example, the tunnel wall may define a first contact pad aperture through which a distal end of a first contact pad passes and the tunnel wall may define a second contact pad aperture through which a distal end of a second contact pad passes. In another example, the tunnel wall may define a contact pad aperture through which the distal ends of both a first contact pad and a second contact pad pass. The distal ends of the contact pads are positioned to make electrical contact with terminals of a connector tip that is removably inserted into the tunnel.

In accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure, an accessory device may have a connector tip. The connector tip includes at least a first wire segment and a second wire segment. The first and second wire segments are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other. The first wire segment has a first contact surface configured to provide a first electrical connection between the first wire segment and a first electrical terminal. The second wire segment has a second contact surface configured to provide a second electrical connection between the second wire segment and a second electrical terminal. The first and second electrical terminals may be terminals of a battery in the accessory device, terminals of wires connected to electrical components of the accessory device, terminals of a cable connected to another device, and so on. Additionally, the connector tip includes a first set of bristles and a second set of bristles. The first and second sets of bristles are electrically conductive. The first set of bristles is electrically connected to the first wire segment and electrically insulated from the second wire segment. The second set of bristles is electrically connected to the second wire segment and electrically insulated from the first wire segment.

When the connector tip is inserted into the tunnel of the hearing instrument, the first set of bristles may make an electrical connection with the first contact pad of the hearing instrument and the second set of bristles may make an electrical connection with the second contact pad of the hearing instrument. Thus, the first and second wire segments, the first and second sets of bristles, the first and second contact pads of the hearing instruments, and one or more electrical components of the hearing aid may form an electrical circuit when the connector tip is inserted into the tunnel. A current passing through this electrical circuit may charge a rechargeable battery of the hearing instrument, may be modulated to communicate data to or from the hearing instrument, or may serve other purposes.

Because the contact pads are in the tunnel, it may be unnecessary for there to be a separate opening in the hearing instrument to insert the connector tip. This may save space within the hearing instrument, e.g., for other components or may reduce the overall size of the hearing instrument. Moreover, this may allow for more optimal placement of other components, such as antennas, telecoils, push buttons, rotary volume controls, and so on. Furthermore, because the contact pads are in the tunnel, they are not exposed on the outer surface of the hearing instrument where they may more easily be damaged.

Moreover, in prior hearing instruments that include a separate socket into which the tip of a cable in inserted, debris can accumulate in the socket. This debris may prevent terminals of a connector tip from making good contact with contact pads in the socket. The debris may be difficult to remove without special tools. However, in the examples of this disclosure, because the contact pads are in the tunnel and the tunnel is open at both the lateral and medial surfaces of the hearing instruments, debris (e.g., ear-generated materials, dust, lint, etc.) that falls into the tunnel can simply be pushed out one side of the tunnel by inserting the connector tip of this disclosure or other small thin object through the tunnel. Moreover, the bristles of the connector tip of this disclosure may make a scratching connection with the contact pads, which may clean away debris from the contact pads, which may help to ensure a reliable electrical connection. Furthermore, prior hearing instruments have used moving contact pads, such as springloaded pogo pins and contact arms, to provide electrical connections to the terminals of connector tips. However, moving contact pads are prone to failure due to debris ingress and/or mechanical fatigue failures. Hearing instruments manufactured in accordance with the techniques of this disclosure do not need to include moving contact pads.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example system <NUM> that includes a hearing instrument <NUM> and an accessory device <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. System <NUM> is an example and other example of the techniques of this disclosure are described elsewhere in this disclosure. However, for ease of explanation, continued reference is made to <FIG> throughout this disclosure.

Hearing instrument <NUM> may be a hearing aid, earphone, earbud, earpiece, and another type of device designed to be worn at least partially in a user's ear. As shown in <FIG>, hearing instrument <NUM> includes a shell <NUM>. Shell <NUM> is formed (e.g., molded) into a shape that can be worn in an ear of a user. For instance, shell <NUM> may be formed (e.g., molded) into a shape suitable for insertion at least partially into an ear canal of a user. In some examples, hearing instrument <NUM> may be an in-the-ear device and shell <NUM> may be formed (e.g., molded) for wear outside an ear canal of a user. In some examples, shell <NUM> may be custom formed (e.g., molded) to fit the unique anatomy of an individual user's ear and/or ear canal. In some examples, shell <NUM> may be made of a flexible material or an elastomer, such as silicone rubber or other flexible material. Shell <NUM> may have different shapes and styles than that shown in the example of <FIG>.

Shell <NUM> has a lateral surface <NUM> and a medial surface <NUM>. In some examples, lateral surface <NUM> is a faceplate of hearing instrument <NUM>. Lateral surface <NUM> of shell <NUM> is distal to a midline of the user when hearing instrument <NUM> is worn by the user. The midline of the user is considered to be a plane running vertically through the center of the user's body when the user is standing, the plane running from the anterior side of the user's body to the posterior side of the user's body. Medial surface <NUM> of shell <NUM> is proximal to the midline of the user when hearing instrument <NUM> is worn by the user.

Shell <NUM> includes a tunnel wall <NUM>. Tunnel wall <NUM> is a portion of shell <NUM> shaped to define a tunnel <NUM> that passes through hearing instrument <NUM> from lateral surface <NUM> to medial surface <NUM>. Tunnel <NUM> is open at both ends. Thus, tunnel wall <NUM> defines tunnel <NUM> such that tunnel <NUM> has a lateral portal <NUM> and a medial portal <NUM>. In some examples, tunnel <NUM> may be a vent that allows internally generated sound to escape from a portion of the user's ear canal medial to hearing instrument <NUM> and the outside environment. Thus, in some such examples, shell <NUM> may be shaped such that during wear of hearing instrument <NUM>, medial portal <NUM> of tunnel <NUM> is located inside an ear canal of the ear of the user. In some examples, shell <NUM> is shaped such that during wear of hearing instrument <NUM>, medial portal <NUM> of tunnel <NUM> is located in a concha of the ear of the user. Because tunnel <NUM> is open at both ends, debris may be cleaned from tunnel <NUM> by pushing the debris out an opposite end of tunnel <NUM>.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, a connector tip <NUM> of accessory device <NUM> may be inserted into lateral portal <NUM> of tunnel <NUM> or medial portal <NUM> of tunnel <NUM>. Connector tip <NUM> includes a first set of bristles <NUM> and a second set of bristles <NUM>. As shown and described in greater detail elsewhere in this disclosure, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be attached to a first wire segment and a second wire segment of connector tip <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may each comprise a cylindrically shaped arrays of bristles. In other examples, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may have other shapes. Although not shown in the example of <FIG>, connector tip <NUM> may include other sets of bristles.

As noted above, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> are connected to a first and a second wire segment of connector tip <NUM>. The first and second wire segments of connector tip <NUM> are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other. Furthermore, sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> are also electrically conductive. Bristles <NUM> are electrically connected to the first wire segment and electrically insulated from the second wire segment. Bristles <NUM> are electrically connected to the second wire segment and electrically insulated from the first wire segment. Bristles <NUM> are spaced from bristles <NUM> as to prevent a short circuit between bristles <NUM> and bristles <NUM> due to bending of one or more bristles of the bristles <NUM> or bristles <NUM>.

As described in greater detail elsewhere in this disclosure, contact pads positioned within tunnel <NUM> may come into electrical contact with bristles <NUM>, <NUM> when connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM>. This may enable a user to use accessory device <NUM> to recharge a battery of hearing instrument <NUM>, exchange data between hearing instrument <NUM> and another device, or perform other activities. In some examples, the contact pads positioned within tunnel <NUM> may come into electrical contact with bristles <NUM>, <NUM> when connector tip <NUM> is inserted into either lateral portal <NUM> or medial portal <NUM> of tunnel <NUM>. Thus, an electrical circuit may include the first wire segment of connector tip <NUM>, one or more electronic components of hearing instrument <NUM>, and the second wire segment of connector tip <NUM>.

To summarize, hearing instrument <NUM> comprises a shell <NUM> shaped for wearing in an ear of a user. Shell <NUM> comprises tunnel wall <NUM>. Tunnel wall <NUM> is a portion of the shell shaped to define a tunnel <NUM> that is open-ended and passes through hearing instrument <NUM>. Two or more contact pads are positioned within shell <NUM>. Tunnel wall <NUM> is shaped such that tunnel wall <NUM> defines one or more contact pad apertures through which distal ends of the contact pads of hearing instrument <NUM> pass. One or more electrical components (e.g., batteries, processors, etc.) are encased within shell <NUM>. The contact pads are conductors from the one or more electrical components. The distal ends of the contact pads are positioned to make electrical contact with bristles <NUM>, <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> that is removably inserted into tunnel <NUM>. For example, when connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM>, bristles <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> are in electrical contact with the distal end of the first contact pad and bristles <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> are in electrical contact with the distal end of the second contact pad.

The wire segments and bristles <NUM>, <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> may carry an electrical current that charges a rechargeable battery of hearing instrument <NUM>. Thus, a user may insert connector tip <NUM> into tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM> when the user wants to recharge the battery of hearing instrument <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, accessory device <NUM> may include a handle <NUM> from which connector tip <NUM> protrudes. Handle <NUM> may enable a user to easily grasp accessory device <NUM> for insertion of connector tip <NUM> into tunnel <NUM>. Handle <NUM> may contain one or more internal components, such as a rechargeable battery, one or more sensors (e.g., health-monitoring sensors, location sensors, etc.), a charging port, a wireless communication system, and/or other components. In some examples, handle <NUM>, or a portion thereof, is formed (e.g., over-molded) over a section of the wire segments of connector tip <NUM>.

In some examples, such as the example of <FIG>, accessory device <NUM> includes a stop member <NUM> at a distance from a distal tip of connector tip <NUM> appropriate for stopping over-insertion of connector tip <NUM> into tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. For instance, in the example of <FIG>, stop member <NUM> forms part of handle <NUM>. Over-insertion may occur when bristles <NUM>, <NUM> move past a first contact pad and a second contact pad of hearing instrument <NUM> as to prevent reliable electrical contact between the first set of bristles and the first contact pad and to prevent reliable electrical contact between the second set of bristles and the second contact pad. Although shown in the example of <FIG> as being part of handle <NUM>, stop member <NUM> may, in other examples, be separate from handle <NUM> or a part of another component of an accessory device.

In some examples, connector tip <NUM> is detachable from handle <NUM>. For instance, in the example of <FIG>, the wire segments and bristles <NUM>, <NUM>, along with cone-shaped body <NUM> may be detachable from handle <NUM>. This may allow a user to replace connector tip <NUM> (and cone-shaped body <NUM>) if bristles <NUM>, <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> are damaged or wear out. Although not shown in the example of <FIG>, a cable may be connected to handle <NUM>. In some examples, the cable is detachable from handle <NUM>. The cable may carry electrical current to handle <NUM>.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example cross-section of hearing instrument <NUM> of <FIG> and connector tip <NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. As shown in <FIG>, a first contact pad <NUM> and a second contact pad <NUM> are positioned within shell <NUM>. In other examples, additional contact pads may be positioned within shell <NUM>. Shell <NUM> includes a tunnel wall <NUM> that is shaped to define tunnel <NUM>. Although the example of <FIG> shows tunnel <NUM> as being straight, tunnel <NUM> may curve within hearing instrument <NUM>. Furthermore, in the example of <FIG>, tunnel wall <NUM> defines a contact pad aperture <NUM> through which a distal end <NUM> of contact pad <NUM> passes. In the example of <FIG>, tunnel wall <NUM> also defines a second contact pad aperture <NUM> through which a distal end <NUM> of contact pad <NUM> passes. Tunnel wall <NUM> may be considered to be limited to the tube-shaped portion of shell <NUM> from lateral portal <NUM> of tunnel <NUM> through hearing instrument <NUM> to medial portal <NUM> of tunnel <NUM>.

In some examples, contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> are mounted within shell <NUM> such that contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> are immovable relative to shell <NUM>. For instance, in the example of <FIG>, contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> are not designed for movement in a direction substantially parallel or orthogonal to lengthwise axis <NUM> of tunnel <NUM>. Because contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> are immovable relative to shell <NUM>, contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> are not moving parts and may therefore be less susceptible to debris intrusion or mechanical fatigue than moving parts like pogo pins. Furthermore, because contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> are immovable relative to shell <NUM>, shell <NUM> can be made waterproof or water-resistant because a waterproof or water-resistant membrane does not need to be flexible to accommodate movable contact pads. Thus, in some such examples, hearing instrument <NUM> may be submersible, even allowing the user to wear hearing instrument <NUM> while swimming or showering.

One or more electrical components <NUM> are encased within shell <NUM>. Contact pad <NUM> is a first conductor from electrical components <NUM>. Distal end <NUM> of contact pad <NUM> may be a first terminal of the first conductor. Contact pad <NUM> is a second conductor from electrical components <NUM>. Distal end <NUM> of contact pad <NUM> may be a second terminal of the second conductor. For instance, distal end <NUM> of contact pad <NUM> may be a positive terminal and distal end <NUM> of contact pad <NUM> may be a negative terminal.

Electrical components <NUM> may comprise various types of electrical or electronic components. For example, electrical components <NUM> may include a rechargeable battery. In other words, hearing instrument <NUM> may comprise a battery configured to be recharged using electrical energy supplied through connector tip <NUM>, contact pad <NUM>, and contact pad <NUM>. In such examples, the configuration of contact pads <NUM>, <NUM> may support standard and high-speed charging. In some examples, electrical components <NUM> include communication units configured to receive information from other computing devices. For instance, in one example, a communication unit may be configured to receive data that configures hearing instrument <NUM> for processing sound for a user. In other words, electrical components <NUM> may comprise circuitry configured to process data transmitted to hearing instrument <NUM> through connector tip <NUM>, contact pad <NUM>, and contact pad <NUM>. In some examples, a communication unit may be configured to receive media data.

In some examples, hearing instrument <NUM> may include more than the two contact pads shown in <FIG>. For instance, in one example, the one or more electrical components <NUM> may include a battery configured to be recharged using electrical energy supplied through the connector tip and a first set of two or more of the contact pads, and other ones of the electrical components <NUM> may be configured to process data transmitted to hearing instrument <NUM> through connector tip <NUM> and a second set of two or more of the contact pads, which may include one or more contact pads different from the first set of contact pads.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, connector tip <NUM> includes bristles <NUM>, <NUM>. Bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may extend <NUM>-degrees around connector tip <NUM>, thereby potentially allowing <NUM> rotation of connector tip <NUM> while at least some of bristles <NUM> and bristles <NUM> maintain electrical contact with contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM>. Bristles <NUM> may be electrically connected to a first wire segment in connector tip <NUM> and bristles <NUM> may be electrically connected to a second wire segment in connector tip <NUM>.

Although not shown in the example of <FIG>, hearing instrument <NUM> may include more than two contact pads that are similarly disposed with respect to tunnel <NUM> as contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM>. For example, contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> may serve to provide electrical energy to recharge a battery of hearing instrument <NUM> and two additional contact pads disposed within tunnel <NUM> may be used for communication of data between hearing instrument <NUM> and another device via a cable.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example cross-section of hearing instrument <NUM> with connector tip <NUM> of accessory device <NUM> inserted into tunnel <NUM> that passes through hearing instrument <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. <FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating in greater detail an example cross-section of a hearing instrument with a connector tip inserted into a tunnel that passes through the hearing instrument, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. As shown in the example of <FIG>, hearing instrument <NUM> includes a receiver <NUM> and other electrical components. Hearing instrument <NUM> also includes contact pad <NUM> and contact pad <NUM>.

As shown in the examples of <FIG>, at least some bristles of bristles <NUM> make contact with contact pad <NUM> and at least some bristles of bristles <NUM> make contact with contact pad <NUM> when connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM>. Because of the spacing of bristles <NUM> from bristles <NUM>, a stray bristle of bristles <NUM> cannot reach contact pad <NUM> and a stray bristle of bristles <NUM> cannot reach contact pad <NUM> when connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM>. Thus, the spacing may help to prevent a short circuit caused by one of bristles <NUM> touching contact pad <NUM> or bristles <NUM> or a short circuit caused by one of bristles <NUM> touching contact pad <NUM> or bristles <NUM>.

To help ensure reliable contact between bristles <NUM>, <NUM> and contact pads <NUM>, <NUM>, a cross-sectional diameter of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> is larger than a diameter of tunnel <NUM>. This may ensure that each of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> bends when entering tunnel <NUM>. The springback force of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> caused by bending of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may create a radial compressive force sufficient to ensure a stable connection between bristles <NUM>, <NUM> and contact pads <NUM>, <NUM>.

Additionally, the radial compressive force may cause bristles <NUM>, <NUM> to make a scratching-type contact with contact pads <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, the insertion of connector tip <NUM> into tunnel <NUM> may cause bristles <NUM>, <NUM> to clean away debris (e.g., lint, skin cells, earwax, oils, etc.) from contact pads <NUM>, <NUM>. Cleaning away such debris may help to ensure reliable electrical contact between bristles <NUM>, <NUM> and contact pads <NUM>, <NUM>. In other words, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may have sufficient rigidity to brush ear-generated materials (e.g., oils, earwax, skin cells, etc.) from contact pads <NUM>, <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>.

Furthermore, as noted elsewhere in this disclosure, electrical contact may be made between bristles <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> and electrical contact may be made between bristles <NUM> and contact pad <NUM> when connector tip is inserted into tunnel <NUM>. Because connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM> and tunnel <NUM> is open-ended at two ends, insertion of connector tip <NUM> into one of portals <NUM>, <NUM> may push debris, such as earwax and lint, out the other one of portals <NUM>, <NUM>. In other words, in some examples, at least bristles <NUM> (and in some examples, bristles <NUM>) have sufficient rigidity such that when connector tip <NUM> is inserted into a first portal (e.g., lateral portal <NUM> or medial portal <NUM>) of tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>, bristles <NUM> are able to push ear-generated materials out a second portal (e.g., lateral portal <NUM> or medial portal <NUM>) of tunnel <NUM>.

Furthermore, as shown in the examples of <FIG>, tunnel wall <NUM> may define tunnel <NUM> such that tunnel <NUM> has a curved shape. Allowing tunnel <NUM> to have a curved shape may enable shell <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM> to have a wider variety of shapes, which may result in increased user comfort. Additionally, allowing tunnel <NUM> to have a curved shape may provide greater design flexibility to a designer of hearing instrument <NUM>. For instance, using a curved shape may enable the designer of hearing instrument <NUM> to place internal components of hearing instrument <NUM> in a wider variety of places within shell <NUM>.

In some examples, connector tip <NUM> is bendable under force sufficient to insert connector tip <NUM> into a curved tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. Furthermore, in such examples, connector tip <NUM> returns at least partially to an original shape upon removal of connector tip <NUM> from the curved tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. For instance, in one example, when connector tip <NUM> is not inserted into any other object (e.g., as shown in <FIG>), connector tip <NUM> may be straight. In this example, connector tip <NUM> may bend when inserted into tunnel <NUM> and may return to being straight when removed from tunnel <NUM>. In other examples, connector tip <NUM> may originally be curved or connector tip <NUM> may retain some of bend resulting from insertion of connector tip <NUM> into tunnel <NUM>. A springback force of connector tip <NUM> is a force of connector tip <NUM> to return to an original (e.g., straight) shape of connector tip <NUM>. In some examples, the springback force of connector tip <NUM> may be sufficient to assist with preventing connector tip <NUM> from passively falling out of curved tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. In other words, the friction caused by the springback force may help bristles <NUM>, <NUM> hold connector tip <NUM> in tunnel <NUM> until user pulls connector tip <NUM> out of tunnel <NUM>.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example intermediate stage of manufacturing a connector tip <NUM> of accessory device <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. <FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating example details of connector tip <NUM> of accessory device <NUM> of <FIG> during the intermediate stage of manufacturing the connector tip, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. As illustrated in the example of <FIG>, connector tip <NUM> may include a first wire segment <NUM> and a second wire segment <NUM>. Wire segment <NUM> and wire segment <NUM> are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other. For example, each of wire segment <NUM> and wire segment <NUM> may have a separate electrically insulating jacket.

Wire segment <NUM> has a contact surface <NUM> configured to provide an electrical connection between wire segment <NUM> and an electrical terminal <NUM>. Wire segment <NUM> has a contact surface <NUM> configured to provide an electrical connection between wire segment <NUM> and an electrical terminal <NUM>. From the perspective of <FIG>, contact surface <NUM> is largely hidden. Although illustrated in the example of <FIG> as box-shaped structures, the techniques of this disclosure may apply with electrical terminals of various types. For instance, in one example, electrical terminals <NUM>, <NUM> are terminals of a battery. In some examples, electrical terminals <NUM>, <NUM> are terminals of wires leading to and from a battery or other electrical components of an accessory device (e.g., accessory device <NUM>). In some examples, electrical terminals <NUM>, <NUM> are terminals of wires in a cable connected or connectable to an accessory device (e.g., accessory device <NUM>). In some examples, contact surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> are fixedly attached to electrical terminals <NUM>, <NUM>. In other examples, contact surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> are not fixedly attached to electrical terminals <NUM>, <NUM>. In other words, contact surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>, may be detached from electrical terminals <NUM>, <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> may be substantially parallel to one another at the intermediate stage of manufacturing connector tip <NUM>. Additionally, each of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be positioned between wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>. Bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be arrayed substantially parallel to each other in a direction orthogonal to wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>. Bristles <NUM> are positioned at a section <NUM> of wire segment <NUM> where there is no insulation on wire segment <NUM> and where there is insulation on wire segment <NUM>. Thus, bristles <NUM> may be electrically connected to wire segment <NUM> and electrically insulated from wire segment <NUM>. Bristles <NUM> are positioned at a section <NUM> on wire segment <NUM> where there is no insulation on wire segment <NUM> and where there is insulation on wire segment <NUM>. Thus, bristles <NUM> are electrically connected to wire segment <NUM> and electrically insulated from wire segment <NUM>.

Bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be connected to wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> in one of various ways. For example, connector tip <NUM> may include an insulated third wire segment (not shown). In this example, bristles <NUM> may be connected to wire segment <NUM> by being pinched between the third wire segment and wire segment <NUM>. In this example, bristles <NUM> may be connected to wire segment <NUM> by being pinched between the third wire and wire segment <NUM>. In some examples, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> are soldered (e.g., gang soldered) or welded (e.g., resistance welded) to sections <NUM>, <NUM> of wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>.

Bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be made of a variety of materials. For example, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be made from metal alloys and platings that offer a suitable set of properties for charging and/or data communication applications. In some examples, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be made from a nickel-titanium alloy (e.g., nitinol). These properties may include electrical conductivity, corrosion resistance, elasticity, ductility, fatigue resistance, galvanic potentials close to wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>, and other properties. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, phosphor bronze (copper and tin alloy), brass (copper and zinc alloy), nickel and nickel alloys, gold-played stainless steel, and so on.

In a step of the manufacturing process subsequent to the intermediate step of the manufacturing process shown in <FIG>, wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> are twisted helically around a common axis. <FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating example details of connector tip <NUM> of accessory device <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG> after twisting wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> to spread sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. Thus, in the example of <FIG>, wire segment <NUM> and wire segment <NUM> are helically twisted around a shared axis <NUM>. Thus, segments <NUM>, <NUM> form a double helix, wrapping around each other.

Twisting wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> in this manner may cause bristles <NUM>, <NUM> to spread out radially from shared axis <NUM>. Thus, bristles <NUM> may form a first cylindrically shaped array of bristles and bristles <NUM> may form a second cylindrically shaped array of bristles. Twisting wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> may also serve to lock bristles <NUM>, <NUM> in place between wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating example details of connector tip <NUM> of the accessory, in which the connector tip includes four sets of bristles, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. The extra sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be attached to two additional wire segments in the same way as shown in the examples of <FIG>. Thus, there initially may be four substantially parallel wire segments. The four wire segments may then be twisted about a single, shared axis. Bristles <NUM> and bristles <NUM> may be used for charging hearing instrument <NUM> while bristles <NUM> and bristles <NUM> may be used for data communication, or vice versa. In other words, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> (or <NUM>, <NUM>) may be configured to carry a first electrical current for charging a rechargeable battery of hearing instrument <NUM>, and bristles <NUM>, <NUM> (or <NUM>, <NUM>) may be configured to carry a second electrical current that is modulated to communicate of data to or from hearing instrument <NUM>. Such data may include sensor data, processed sound data, or other types of data.

Thus, in the example of <FIG>, where wire segment <NUM>, <NUM> are first and second wire segments, connector tip <NUM> may further include a third wire segment and a fourth wire segment. The third and fourth wire segments are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other. Connector tip <NUM> may also include a third set of bristles <NUM> and a fourth set of bristles <NUM>. The third and fourth sets of bristles may be attached to the third wire segment and the fourth wire segment such that the third set of bristles forms a third cylindrically shaped array of bristles and the fourth set of bristles forms a fourth cylindrically shaped array of bristles. The third and fourth sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> are electrically conductive. The third set of bristles <NUM> is electrically connected to the third wire segment and electrically insulated from the fourth wire segment (as well as the first and second wire segments). The fourth set of bristles <NUM> is electrically connected to the fourth wire segment and electrically insulated from the third wire segment (as well as the first and second wire segments). The third set of bristles <NUM> is spaced sufficiently far from the fourth set of bristles <NUM> as to prevent a short circuit between the third and fourth sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM>, or the first and second sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM>.

In other examples, such as the example of <FIG>, where connector tip <NUM> includes two sets of bristles, bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may be used to carry electrical current for charging a rechargeable battery of hearing instrument <NUM> and, at other times, carry electrical current that is modulated to communicate data to and/or from hearing instrument <NUM>. In some examples, the electrical current for charging the rechargeable battery of hearing instrument <NUM> may also be modulated to communicate data to and from hearing instrument <NUM>. In some examples, the electrical current carried by bristles <NUM>, <NUM> is only used for communication of a modulated electrical current in which data is signaled. Thus, in various examples, wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>, and bristles <NUM>, <NUM> may carry a modulated electrical current in which data is signaled. For instance, the modulated electrical current may be modulated to communicate data generated by or based on the data generated by one or more sensors (e.g., health-monitoring sensors) in hearing instrument <NUM> and/or accessory device <NUM>.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example system <NUM> that includes hearing instrument <NUM> and an accessory device <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. A tether <NUM> may connect accessory device <NUM> and hearing instrument <NUM>. Accessory device <NUM> may be connected to an end of tether <NUM> opposite the end having a connector tip, such as connector tip <NUM>, that may be inserted into tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. In some examples, tether <NUM> has two connector tips of a type similar to connector tip <NUM>, one of which may be inserted into hearing instrument <NUM> and one of which may be inserted into accessory device <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, the connector tips are hidden within hearing instrument <NUM> and accessory device <NUM>. Tether <NUM> may include two or more wires that connect to the first and second wire segments of the connector tip(s) of tether <NUM>. In some examples, the two or more wires in tether <NUM> may be integral to the first and second wire segments. In other examples, the two or more wires in tether <NUM> may be separate wires in electrical connection with the first and second wire segments of the connector tip(s) of tether <NUM>.

Accessory device <NUM> may be various types of devices. For example, accessory device <NUM> may be one of various types of devices designed to be worn behind an ear of a user. That is, accessory device <NUM> may be shaped for wear in an ear of a user. For example, accessory device <NUM> may comprise a portable battery back-up device, a media playback device, a media streaming device, a behind-the-ear unit of a RIC hearing aid, an external microphone unit, or another type of device. In other examples, accessory device <NUM> may be device, such as a sensor device, designed to be worn elsewhere on the user's body. For instance, accessory device <NUM> may be an external microphone device, such as an external microphone device designed to be placed on a table, worn on a lapel, or held in a user's hands. In some examples, accessory device <NUM> may contain one or more batteries configured to provide electrical energy to hearing instrument <NUM> via connector tip <NUM>.

In some examples, a user may continue to use hearing instrument <NUM> while the connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM> and an opposite end of tether <NUM> is connected to accessory device <NUM>. For example, hearing instrument <NUM> may continue operating as a hearing aid while connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM>. In another example, hearing instrument <NUM> may continue acting as an earphone while connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM>. Thus, in examples where tether <NUM> is used for recharging a battery of hearing instrument <NUM>, the user may continue using hearing instrument <NUM> while the battery of hearing instrument <NUM> is being recharged. This may be an especially useful function when the other end of tether <NUM> is attached to a portable recharging battery pack. In examples where hearing instrument <NUM> acts as an earphone, hearing instrument <NUM> may typically receive streams of media data via a wireless antenna. However, when the battery level of a rechargeable battery of hearing instrument <NUM> is low or there is excessive radio interference, tether <NUM> may be used to provide either or both energy for both recharging the battery and media data to hearing instrument <NUM>. For instance, in such an example, hearing instrument <NUM> may act like a conventional wired earphone. In such examples, accessory device <NUM> may be a smartphone, tablet computer, portable gaming device, or another type of media device.

In some examples, accessory device <NUM> comprises a sensor unit. The sensor unit may comprise a device separate from hearing instrument <NUM>. The sensor unit may include one or more sensors, such as sensors for detecting biological information regarding the user of hearing instrument <NUM>. For instance, the sensors may include a heart rate sensor, a blood pressure sensor, a transdermal blood oxygenation sensor, or another type of sensor. In some examples, the sensor unit may be configured to rest in or proximate to the user's ear. For instance, the sensor unit may rest in the concha, tragus, scapha, or other part of the user's ear. The sensor unit may use tether <NUM> to communicate data to hearing instrument <NUM>. Hearing instrument <NUM> may store the data from the sensor unit in a memory. In some examples, hearing instrument <NUM> may send data from the sensor unit to another device (e.g., a smartphone, personal computer, etc.) wirelessly or via another cable insertable into tunnel <NUM>. In some examples, one or more processors in hearing instrument <NUM> may process the sensor data and output audible sound based on the sensor data. For instance, hearing instrument <NUM> may alert the user to slow their heart rate.

In some examples, hearing instrument <NUM> comprises a sensor unit that includes any of the types of sensors mentioned above, or others. In such examples, hearing instrument <NUM> may transmit data generated by or based on the sensors to accessory device <NUM> via tether <NUM>.

In some examples, accessory device <NUM> may include one or more speakers that generate sound. Tether <NUM> may include a sound tube in addition to or as an alternative to the two or more wires in tether <NUM>. The sound tube may be attached to accessory device <NUM> using a self-sealing acoustic port. The sound tube may guide the sound generated by the one or more speakers of accessory device <NUM> into tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. Tunnel <NUM> may then guide the sound into an ear canal of a user of hearing instrument <NUM>. Because bristles <NUM>, <NUM> do not form a solid mass, the sound may pass between bristles <NUM>, <NUM> without significant attenuation.

In examples where tether <NUM> includes a sound tube, the speakers in accessory device <NUM> may be specialized speakers that supplement or serve in place of speakers in hearing instrument <NUM>. For example, the speakers in accessory device <NUM> may include woofers and/or tweeters that are designed to better produce sounds having low- and high-frequencies, respectively. The frequencies produced by the extra speakers in accessory device <NUM> may augment sound produced by speakers in hearing instrument <NUM> and improve the listening experience for the user of hearing instrument <NUM>. Thus, in this example, a user may want to use accessory device <NUM> when the user plans to listen to music, watch a movie, or enjoy other types of audio content.

In some examples where accessory device <NUM> includes one or more speakers and tether <NUM> includes a sound tube, hearing instrument <NUM> does not include a receiver (i.e., a device that includes one or more speakers) for generating sounds typically to be heard by the user. Instead, the speakers in accessory device <NUM> may generate the sounds typically to be heard by the user. Thus, with respect to generation of sound, accessory device <NUM> may function in the manner of a BTE hearing instrument. However, in such examples, hearing instrument <NUM> may include one or more sensors, such as any of the types of sensors discussed elsewhere in this disclosure. Hearing instrument <NUM> may transmit data generated by or based on the sensors to accessory device <NUM>. In some such examples, tether <NUM> is detachable from accessory device <NUM> and a user may remove tether <NUM> and use a conventional sound tube with accessory device <NUM>.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example accessory device <NUM> in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. In the example of <FIG>, accessory device <NUM> includes two connector tips 902A, 902B (collectively, "connector tips <NUM>"). Each of connector tips <NUM> may be of the type described elsewhere in this disclosure with respect to connector tip <NUM>.

A body member <NUM> of accessory device <NUM> may contain one or more batteries that are configured to provide electrical energy to a first hearing instrument via connector tip <NUM> and a second hearing instrument via connector tip <NUM>. In this way, a user may use accessory device <NUM> as a portable charging device for hearing instruments. Accessory device <NUM> may include a port <NUM> into which a charging cable may be inserted for recharging the batteries of accessory device <NUM>.

In some examples, connector tips <NUM> may each be removable from body member <NUM> of accessory device <NUM>. Thus, a user may replace connector tips <NUM> when connector tips <NUM> become worn.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example charging case accessory device <NUM> in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. Charging case accessory device <NUM> may be designed for charging rechargeable batteries of hearing instruments. For instance, charging case accessory device <NUM> may be placed on a nightstand of a user of the hearing instruments. Charging case accessory device <NUM> may include a charging cord <NUM> that is configured to connect to an external power source, such as an electrical outlet or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port.

As shown in the example of <FIG>, charging case accessory device <NUM> may include connector tips 1004A, 1004B (collectively, "connector tips <NUM>"). In other examples, charging case accessory device <NUM> may include a single connector tip or more than two connector tips. Each of connector tips <NUM> may be of the type described elsewhere in this disclosure with respect to connector tip <NUM>. A user may recharge batteries of hearing instruments by placing the hearing instruments into charging case accessory device <NUM> in such a way that connector tips <NUM> are inserted into tunnels of the hearing instruments. Thus, in some examples, charging case accessory device <NUM> may comprise electrical components for providing electrical energy from a power grid to a hearing instrument via a connector tip (e.g., connector tip 1004A, 1004B).

Thus, in at least the examples of <FIG> and <FIG>, an accessory device may include a first connector tip and a second connector tip. The first connector tip comprises a first wire segment and a second wire segment. The first and second wire segments are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other, the first wire segment has a first contact surface configured to provide a first electrical connection between the first wire segment and a first electrical terminal, and the second wire segment has a second contact surface configured to provide a second electrical connection between the second wire segment and a second electrical terminal. The first connector tip also includes a first set of bristles and a second set of bristles. The first and second sets of bristles are electrically conductive, the first set of bristles is electrically connected to the first wire segment and electrically insulated from the second wire segment, the second set of bristles is electrically connected to the second wire segment and electrically insulated from the first wire segment, and the first set of bristles is spaced sufficiently far from the second set of bristles as to prevent a short circuit between the first and second sets of bristles. The second connector tip comprises a third wire segment and a fourth wire segment. The third and fourth wire segments are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other. The second connector tip also includes a third set of bristles and a fourth set of bristles. The third and fourth sets of bristles are electrically conductive, the third set of bristles is electrically connected to the third wire segment and electrically insulated from the fourth wire segment, the fourth set of bristles is electrically connected to the fourth wire segment and electrically insulated from the third wire segment, and the third set of bristles is spaced sufficiently far from the fourth set of bristles as to prevent a short circuit between the third and fourth sets of bristles.

One design consideration in designing any electrical system that involves making a connection between two sets of electrical terminals is how to ensure that the correct polarity is achieved. For example, electrical components of hearing instrument <NUM> may be damaged if a negative terminal (e.g., contact pad <NUM>) is electrically connected to a positive terminal of connector tip <NUM> (e.g., bristles <NUM>) or a positive terminal (e.g., contact pad <NUM>) is electrically connected to a negative terminal of connector tip <NUM> (e.g., bristles <NUM>). Because tunnel <NUM> has both a lateral portal <NUM> and medial portal <NUM>, a user may potentially insert connector tip <NUM> into either lateral portal <NUM> or medial portal <NUM>. If not accounted for, this may lead to a polarity mismatch problem.

Accordingly, in some examples, connector tip <NUM> may be keyed so that the correct sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> connect to the correct contact pads <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, tunnel <NUM> and/or connector tip <NUM> may include one or more components that prevent connector tip <NUM> from being inserted into whichever of lateral portal <NUM> or medial portal <NUM> would result in incorrect polarity matching. For example, medial portal <NUM> may have a narrower diameter than lateral portal <NUM>. In this example, a component (e.g., a ball-shaped electrical insulator) positioned at a distal end of connector tip <NUM> (e.g., an end opposite handle <NUM>) may have a diameter smaller than the diameter of lateral portal <NUM> but larger than the diameter of medial portal <NUM>. In another example, there may be a disc-shaped member positioned between bristles <NUM>, <NUM> which may engage a structure protruding from tunnel wall <NUM> at a point that prevents connector tip <NUM> from being inserted into tunnel <NUM> in a way that would result in a polarity mismatch.

In some examples, a full-bridge rectifier, which may also be referred to as an either-way-OK (EWOK) circuit, may be included in hearing instrument <NUM>, accessory device <NUM>, or another device. The full-bridge rectifier may be configured to switch which of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> corresponds to a positive terminal of a circuit and which of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> corresponds to a negative terminal of the circuit.

<FIG> is a circuit diagram illustrating an example full-bridge rectifier <NUM> for use in hearing instrument <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. In the example of <FIG>, contact pads 1102A, 1102B (collectively, "charging contacts <NUM>") may correspond to contact pads <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>), respectively. In examples where contact pads <NUM> are included in a circuit to recharge a battery of hearing instrument <NUM>, contact pads <NUM> may be charging contacts. The "+/-" and "-/+" symbols indicate that polarity is uncertain for contact pads <NUM>. Output 1104A of full-bridge rectifier <NUM> may always have positive polarity and output 1104B of full-bridge rectifier <NUM> may always have negative polarity. Outputs 1104A, 1104B may lead to one or more electrical components of hearing instrument <NUM>, such as a rechargeable battery of hearing instrument <NUM>, a processing circuit of hearing instrument <NUM>, or other components of hearing instrument <NUM>. In this disclosure, the triangle-bar symbols indicate diodes. Including full-bridge rectifier <NUM> in hearing instrument <NUM> may add size and complexity to hearing instrument <NUM>, which may be undesirable in some scenarios.

<FIG> is a circuit diagram illustrating an example full-bridge rectifier <NUM> for use in accessory device <NUM>, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. In some examples, full-bridge rectifier <NUM> is included in handle <NUM> (<FIG>). In the example of <FIG>, contact surfaces 1202A, 1202B (collectively, "contact surfaces <NUM>") may provide electrical connections to first and second electrical terminals, such as terminals of a battery, terminals of other wires, and so on. Output 1204A of full-bridge rectifier <NUM> may always have positive polarity and output 1204B of full-bridge rectifier <NUM> may always have negative polarity. Outputs 1204A, 1204B may correspond to wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>). Including full-bridge rectifier <NUM> in accessory device <NUM> may add size and complexity to accessory device <NUM>, which may be undesirable in some scenarios, such as scenarios where accessory device <NUM> is a disposable handle.

<FIG> is a circuit diagram illustrating an example circuit <NUM> for sensing and switching polarity in a charger device, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. In this disclosure, triangle-circle symbols indicate inverters, and zigzag symbols indicate resistors. PMOS indicates a p-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET). NMOS indicates a n-channel MOSFET.

Various types of charger devices may include circuit <NUM>. For example, charging case accessory device <NUM> (<FIG>) or another type of device may include circuit <NUM>. The charger device may determine connection polarity in a number of ways and supply either polarity to contact pads <NUM>, <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM> and sense which polarity is correct for hearing instrument <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, the charger device may control a polarity selection signal <NUM> that controls PMOS <NUM>, NMOS <NUM>, PMOS <NUM>, and NMOS <NUM>. PMOS <NUM>, NMOS <NUM>, PMOS <NUM>, and NMOS <NUM> are Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) switches that supply contact surfaces 1302A, 1302B (collectively, "contact surfaces <NUM>"). By controlling polarity selection signal <NUM> and sensing current draw (which may vary depending on the polarity of how hearing instrument <NUM> is attached), the charger device may control the polarity of the current flowing through contact surfaces <NUM>.

This methodology could put large reverse currents through the rechargable device when the polarity is incorrect and hearing instrument <NUM> does not have sufficient reverse polarity protection. Accordingly, in some examples, contact surfaces <NUM> could power the contacts through a high impedance source so as to reduce the maximum possible reverse current when the polarity is incorrect. Once the polarity is determined, the charging device may switch to a high-power, low-impedance charging source.

<FIG> is a flowchart illustrating an example operation for assembling a connector tip for an accessory device for a hearing instrument, in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure. In other examples, operations may include more or fewer actions, or actions may be performed in different orders.

In the example of <FIG>, an assembler may attach a first set of bristles <NUM> to an electrically uninsulated portion of a first wire segment <NUM> (<NUM>). The first set of bristles <NUM> and the first wire segment <NUM> are electrically conductive. Additionally, the assembler may attach a second set of bristles <NUM> to an electrically uninsulated portion of a second wire segment <NUM> (<NUM>). The second set of bristles <NUM> and the second wire segment <NUM> are electrically conductive.

The assembler may position the first and second wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> substantially parallel to one another such that the first and second wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> are in contact with each other, but no uninsulated portion of the first wire segment <NUM> is in contact with the uninsulated portion of the second wire segment <NUM> and no uninsulated portion of the second wire segment is in contact with the uninsulated portion of the first wire segment (<NUM>). Thus, connector tip <NUM> may attain the state shown in <FIG>.

Subsequently, the assembler twists the first and second wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> around a shared axis such that the first and second sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> spread out radially from the shared axis and the first and second wire segments <NUM>, <NUM> form a double helix around the shared axis (<NUM>). Thus, connector tip <NUM> may attain the state shown in <FIG>. After twisting the first and second wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>, the first set of bristles <NUM> is spaced sufficiently far from the second set of bristles <NUM> as to prevent a short circuit between the first and second sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> due to bending of a bristle of the first or second sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM>.

Furthermore, in some examples, radii of the first and second sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM> are longer than a radius of a tunnel <NUM> defined by a shell <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM> and short enough for connector tip <NUM> to be inserted into tunnel <NUM> while bending the first and second sets of bristles <NUM>, <NUM>. In some examples, after twisting the first and second wire segments <NUM>, <NUM>, the assembler may form (e.g., mold, shape, etc.) a handle <NUM> over one end of connector tip <NUM>.

<FIG> is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example alternative accessory device <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, accessory device <NUM> includes a connector tip <NUM> having bristles <NUM>. Unlike connector tip <NUM>, e.g. as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, connector tip <NUM> includes a single set of bristles <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, bristles <NUM> are arranged as a helix. However, in other examples, bristles <NUM> may be arranged in different patterns. Similar to the role of bristles <NUM> or bristles <NUM>, bristles <NUM> may be inserted into a portal (e.g., lateral portal <NUM>) of tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. When inserted into the portal, bristles <NUM> may form an electrical contact with a contact pad that is electrically connected to one or more electrical components <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, connector tip <NUM> includes a contact element <NUM>. When connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>, contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> touches a contact element of hearing instrument <NUM> located e.g., at a portal (e.g., lateral portal <NUM>) of tunnel <NUM>. In some examples, the contact element of hearing instrument <NUM> is embedded in a faceplate of hearing instrument <NUM>. The contact element of hearing instrument <NUM> is electrically connected to one or more electrical components <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. Thus, when connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM>, bristles <NUM> and contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> may connect accessory device <NUM> to hearing instrument <NUM>, e.g., for recharging a battery of hearing instrument <NUM>, providing communication between hearing instrument <NUM> and device <NUM>, between hearing instrument <NUM> and other devices, or other functions. In some examples, contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> has a cylindrical shape, a torus shape, a cubic shape, or another type of shape.

Bristles <NUM> and contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> may be configured to serve as different terminals of an electrical circuit. In some examples, bristles <NUM> may be configured to serve as a negative terminal and contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> may be configured to serve as a positive terminal. In some examples, bristles <NUM> may be configured to serve as a positive terminal and contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> may be configured to serve as a negative terminal. In some examples, enhanced electrostatic discharge protection occurs when bristles <NUM> serve as the positive terminal and contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> serves as the negative terminal. Because a user of hearing instrument <NUM> may touch bristles <NUM> and contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM>, accessory device <NUM> may include circuitry to protect the user from current leakage.

<FIG> is a cross-section view of an example base portion of connector tip <NUM>. In the example of <FIG>, contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> has a cylindrical shape. Furthermore, <FIG> shows a bushing <NUM> and a portion of a shell <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. Thus, in the example of <FIG>, connector tip <NUM> is inserted into tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>. Furthermore, bushing <NUM> defines a notch <NUM>. A contact pin <NUM> is positioned in notch <NUM> to touch contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> when connector tip <NUM> is inserted through the opening defined by bushing <NUM>.

In the example of <FIG>, contact element <NUM> defines an annular groove <NUM>. When connector tip <NUM> is not inserted through the opening defined by bushing <NUM>, contact pin <NUM> may be in a relaxed state. In the relaxed state of contact pin <NUM>, a portion of contact pin <NUM> may form a chord within the opening defined by bushing <NUM>. As connector tip <NUM> is inserted through the opening defined by bushing <NUM> and into tunnel <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM>, contact pin <NUM> may deflect outwardly from a center of the opening. When connector tip <NUM> is sufficiently inserted, contact pin <NUM> may at least partially return to its relaxed state and fit into annular groove <NUM>. In this way, contact pin <NUM> may help to retain connector tip <NUM> in tunnel <NUM> and may provide a stable electrical connection between contact pin <NUM> and contact element <NUM>.

<FIG> is a cutaway view of an example portion of hearing instrument <NUM> configured for engagement with connector tip <NUM> of <FIG>. In the example of <FIG>, shell <NUM> of hearing instrument <NUM> defines a portal <NUM>. Portal <NUM> may be lateral portal <NUM> (<FIG>) or medial portal <NUM> (<FIG>). Bushing <NUM> is positioned at a margin of portal <NUM>. Bushing <NUM> defines notch <NUM> through which contact pin <NUM> emerges. Contact pin <NUM> may be electrically connected to electrical components <NUM> (<FIG>) of hearing instrument <NUM>. When connector tip <NUM> is inserted into portal <NUM>, bristles <NUM> pass through portal <NUM>. When connector tip <NUM> is fully inserted through portal <NUM>, contact pin <NUM> may touch contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM>. <FIG> is a perspective view of an example bushing <NUM> in accordance with one or more techniques of this disclosure.

Thus, in the examples of <FIG>, hearing instrument <NUM> may comprise a shell <NUM> (a portion of which is shown in <FIG> and <FIG> and shell <NUM>). Electrical components <NUM> are encased within shell <NUM>. Hearing instrument <NUM> further comprises a contact pad that is electrically connected to electrical components <NUM>. The contact pad may be configured in a manner similar to either of contact pads <NUM> or <NUM>. A tunnel wall is shaped to define a tunnel <NUM> that passes through the in-ear hearing instrument from a lateral surface of shell <NUM> to a medial surface of shell <NUM> and is open at both the lateral surface <NUM> of shell <NUM> and medial surface <NUM> of shell <NUM>. The shell <NUM> includes a tunnel wall that defines a contact pad aperture through which a distal end of the contact pad passes. The distal end of the contact pad is positioned to make electrical contact with a set of bristles <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> when connector tip <NUM> is removably inserted into the tunnel <NUM>. Hearing instrument <NUM> further includes a contact pin <NUM> positioned at a portal of tunnel <NUM>. Contact pin <NUM> is electrically connected to electrical components <NUM> and contact pin <NUM> is positioned to make electrical contact with a contact element <NUM> of connector tip <NUM> when connector tip <NUM> is removably inserted into tunnel <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An accessory device (<NUM>) for a hearing instrument (<NUM>), the accessory device comprising:
a connector tip (<NUM>; 902A, 902B; 1004A, 1004B) that comprises:
a first wire segment and a second wire segment, wherein:
the first and second wire segments are electrically conductive and electrically insulated from each other,
the first wire segment has a first contact surface configured to provide a first electrical connection between the first wire segment and a first electrical terminal, and
the second wire segment has a second contact surface configured to provide a second electrical connection between the second wire segment and a second electrical terminal; and
a first set of bristles (<NUM>) and a second set of bristles (<NUM>), wherein:
the first and second sets of bristles (<NUM>, <NUM>) are electrically conductive,
the first set of bristles (<NUM>) is electrically connected to the first wire segment and electrically insulated from the second wire segment,
the second set of bristles (<NUM>) is electrically connected to the second wire segment and electrically insulated from the first wire segment, and
the first set of bristles (<NUM>) is spaced from the second set of bristles (<NUM>) as to prevent a short circuit between the first and second sets of bristles due to bending of a bristle of the first or second sets of bristles;
wherein the first wire segment and the second wire segment are helically twisted around a shared axis.