AL/AOCF noted that the accurate evaluation of hearing acuity depends on the ability to attenuate background noise during audiometric testing. Audiometric testing efficiency can be improved and cost significantly reduced if headphones with the capability to attenuate noise can be utilized to accurately transmit test signals precluding the need for a traditional sound room. USAF described the problem accurately in stating that an effective headpone with integral active noise reduction (ANR) would require a novelapproach to permit accurate transmission of the stimulus signals while attenuating ambient noise. UREA proposes a Phase I effort to develop experimental headphones with digital ANR for hearing assessment. The innovative headphone design will emphasize an array of adjustments to aid in the evaluation of various parameters and design features. The results will help establish feasibility as well as being a cost effective desing approach for optimizing the advanced Phase II prototype. UREA's unique approach to digital ANR has been demonstrated and proven must more effective than traditional approaches. The Phase I bench-level experimental headphone is expected to function well enough to demonstrate its performance and features to prospective strategic partners. In addition, the bench-level headphone will be integrated with the Portable Ausitory diagnostic System.
Keywords: ACTIVE NOISE REDUCTION DIGITAL ANR HEARING AUDIOMETRIC HEADPHONE
