Multiple arm dipole antenna for hearing instrument

The technical field of multi-arm dipole antennas for hearing instruments

[0001] The present invention relates to hearing instruments, such as hearing aids, eg for compensating for hearing loss of a user, in particular hearing instruments with wireless communication capabilities, and thus hearing instruments comprising antennas for communication.

Background technique

[0002] In recent years, hearing instruments have become increasingly capable of communicating with the surrounding environment, including with remote controllers, paired microphones, other hearing instruments, and recently also directly with smartphones and other external electronic devices.

Hearing instruments are very small and delicate devices, and in order to meet the above requirements, hearing instruments need to include many electronic and metal components housed in a housing that is small enough to fit in a person's ear canal or outer ear Behind. Many electronic and metal components combined with the small size of the hearing instrument housing impose high design constraints on radio frequency antennas for hearing instruments with wireless communication capabilities. As the antenna becomes smaller compared to the transceiving wavelength of the electromagnetic field, a fundamental trade-off between bandwidth and efficiency will arise.

[0004] Furthermore, the antennas in hearing instruments (usually radio frequency antennas) have to be designed to achieve satisfactory battery life, good communication in all environments for all sizes and shapes of heads, ears and hair, and have [0004] The largest possible frequency bandwidth, despite space constraints and other design constraints imposed by the size of the hearing instrument.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to overcome at least some of the above-mentioned disadvantages, and a further object is to provide a hearing instrument capable of wireless communication.

[0006] According to a first aspect, a hearing instrument is provided, the hearing instrument comprising a microphone for receiving sound and converting the received sound into a corresponding first audio signal; a signal processor for converting the received sound a first audio signal is processed into a second audio signal for compensating for the hearing loss of a user of the hearing instrument; a speaker connected to the output of the signal processor for converting the second audio signal into an output sound signal; being a wireless communication unit configured for wireless data communication; and an antenna for transmitting or receiving electromagnetic fields. The antenna includes a first antenna element and a plurality of further antenna elements. The first antenna element includes a first branch and a second branch. The first branch and the second branch are interconnected with the wireless communication unit. The first branch includes a first connection area and the second branch includes a second connection area. wherein each of the plurality of further antenna elements interconnects the first connection area and the second connection area.

[0007] The wireless communication unit is configured for wireless communication, including wireless data communication, and in this regard with an antenna for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic fields. Wireless communication units may include transmitters, receivers, transmitter-receiver pairs such as transceivers, radios, and the like. The wireless communication unit may be configured to communicate using any protocol known to those skilled in the art, including Bluetooth, including Bluetooth Low Energy, Bluetooth Smart, etc., WLAN standards, manufacturer-specific protocols, such as customized proximity antenna protocols, such as Proprietary protocols such as low power wireless communication protocols such as CSR mesh etc.

[0008] The hearing instrument may be any hearing instrument, such as any hearing instrument or hearing aid that compensates for the hearing loss of the user of the hearing instrument, or for example any hearing instrument that provides sound to the user.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of additional antenna elements forms a resonant antenna junction with the first antenna element

structure.

[0010] In some embodiments, the plurality of additional antenna elements includes at least second and third antenna elements. Furthermore, the plurality of further antenna elements may also include a fourth antenna element, a fifth antenna element, and the like.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first branch has a first feed area connected to a first feed of the antenna, and the second branch has a second feed area connected to a second feed of the antenna. The first feeding area is provided along the first end of the first branch. The second feed area is provided along the first end of the second branch.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first branch and the second branch of the first antenna element may be connected to the wireless communication unit, both branches being driven conductors.

[0013] The first branch and the second branch are interconnected with the wireless communication unit via first and second transmission lines. The first transmission line and the second transmission line may be non-radiative transmission lines. The first and second transmission lines may be configured to minimize electromagnetic radiation emitted from the first and second transmission lines. The first transmission line and the second transmission line may be balanced transmission lines. Thus, the current from the wireless communication unit to the first feed of the first branch and the current to the second feed of the second branch may have substantially the same magnitude but travel in opposite directions, creating a balanced feed line. It is envisaged that the current magnitudes may not be exactly the same, so some radiation from the feeder may occur, although mostly undesirable.

[0014] The first branch includes a first connection area and the second branch includes a second connection area. Each of the plurality of further antenna elements interconnects the first connection area and the second connection area. The first connection area may be provided at the second end of the first branch. The second connection area may be provided at the second end of the second branch.

[0015] In some embodiments, the first end of at least one of the plurality of further antenna elements, eg, the first end of each of the plurality of further antenna elements, is connected to the first connection area. The second end of at least one of the plurality of further antenna elements, eg each of the plurality of further antenna elements, may be connected to the second connection area. The first antenna element and at least one of the plurality of further antenna elements may form a loop. Each of the plurality of further antenna elements connected to the first and second connection regions of the first antenna element may form a loop.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first connection area is spaced apart from the first feed area by a first distance, and the second connection area is spaced apart from the second feed area by a second distance. Distances can be measured along the antenna elements. The first distance and the second distance may be the same distance. The first distance may be similar, eg, have the same length as the second distance. For example, the first distance may correspond to +/- 10% of the second distance. Alternatively, the first distance may be different from the second distance. In some embodiments, the feed area may coincide with the connection area.

[0017] The first and second branches may be similar or identical in form and/or shape, or the first and second branches may be different in form and/or shape. In some embodiments, the first and second branches may form a dipole antenna.

[0018] In some embodiments, the length of the first branch of the first antenna element may correspond to a first distance, eg, a distance measured along the first antenna element. The first distance may be measured from the first connection area to the first feed area (eg from the center of the first connection area to the center of the first feed area). The length of the second branch of the first antenna element may correspond to a second distance, eg a distance measured along the first antenna element. The second distance may be measured from the second connection area to the second feed area (eg, from the center of the second connection area to the center of the second feed area).

[0019] In some embodiments, the first connection region is separated from the first feed region by a first distance. The second connection area may be separated from the second feed area by a second distance, wherein the distance is measured along the antenna element.

[0020] Typically, the length of the antenna element is defined relative to the wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation emitted from the hearing instrument when the hearing instrument is in the intended operating position of the user's ear. It should be noted that for the antenna to be resonated, the length of the resonating element is chosen to correspond to a multiple of one quarter (X/4) of the wavelength λ of the electromagnetic radiation that will be emitted from the hearing instrument. for connecting

Antennas to the two branches of the wireless communication unit, eg two driven conductors, eg dipole antennas, typically the length of the two branches corresponds to a quarter wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation that will be emitted from the hearing instrument.

[0021] Hearing instruments are typically configured to emit and receive electromagnetic radiation within a specific frequency range or frequency band. In some embodiments, the frequency band is set to include the resonant frequency of the antenna element. Typically, the length of the antenna element is optimized for use within a particular frequency band, such as a frequency band around or extending from the peak resonant frequency.

[0022] Typically, the lengths of the antenna elements are selected to optimize the antenna for use at a particular frequency or frequency band, eg, selected to provide optimal resonance at a particular frequency (eg, within a desired frequency band). Typically, antennas are optimized for ISM frequency bands, including cellular and WLAN frequency bands, such as GSM frequency bands or WLAN frequency bands.

[0023] The frequency band may be a frequency band including frequencies selected from, for example, 433MHz, 800MHz, 915MHz, 1800MHz, 2.4GHz, 5.8GHz, and the like. Thus, the frequency band may be selected as an ISM frequency band, a GSM frequency band, or a WLAN frequency band including any one or more of these frequencies.

[0024] The hearing instruments disclosed herein may be configured for operation in the ISM frequency band. Preferably, the antenna is configured to operate at a frequency of at least 400MHz, eg at least 800MHz, eg at least 1GHz, eg between 1.5GHz and 6GHz, eg between 1.5GHz and 3GHz, eg 2.4GHz. The antenna may be optimized for operation at frequencies between 400MHz and 6GHz, eg, between 400MHz and 1GHz, between 800MHz and 1GHz, between 800MHz and 6GHz, between 800MHz and 3GHz, and the like.

[0025] However, it is contemplated that the hearing instruments disclosed herein are not limited to operation in such frequency bands, and that the hearing instruments may be configured for operation in any frequency band.

[0026] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the antenna is configured to transmit and receive an electromagnetic field having a transceiving wavelength λ. The first distance and/or the second distance may be between one eighth (1/8) and three eighth (3/8) of the transmit and receive wavelength λ. It is known to those skilled in the art that the transmit and receive wavelengths in a hearing instrument are related to the dielectric constant of the material of the hearing instrument.

[0027] In some embodiments, the antenna is configured to transmit and receive electromagnetic fields having a transceiving wavelength (λ). The length of each antenna element may correspond to one-half the length of the transceiving wavelength, ie, λ/2, eg, about half the transceiving wavelength, eg, half the transceiving wavelength λ +/- 10%.

[0028] In some embodiments, the hearing instrument has a first side and a second side. The first side and the second side may be two opposite sides of the hearing instrument. In some embodiments, the first side may be a side of the hearing instrument configured to be parallel to the user's head when the hearing instrument is placed in its intended operating position. The first side may be the side of the hearing instrument adjacent to the user's head. For example, the first side may be the longitudinal side behind the ear module, and the first side may be the side adjacent to the user's head. Likewise, the first side may be the end face in the ear module and the first side may be the side of the ear module facing the inner ear of the user.

[0029] The second side may be the side of the hearing instrument furthest from the user's head. For example, the second side may be the longitudinal side behind the ear module. The second side may be the side of the earlobe facing the ear. Likewise, the second side may be the end face in the ear module, and the second side may be the side of the ear module facing the user's surroundings. The second side may be a panel in the ear module.

[0030] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of further antenna elements, eg a second antenna element, eg a third antenna element, extends from the first side to the second side. Thus, at least each of the second and third antenna elements may extend from the first side to the second side.

the first branch comprises a first connection area and the second branch comprises a second connection area, and in some embodiments the first connection area is provided on the first side of the hearing instrument and the second connection area is provided on the hearing instrument the second side.

The first connection area may be arranged on the side opposite to the second connection area.

each of the plurality of additional antenna elements interconnects the first connection region and the second connection region, and in some embodiments, each of the plurality of additional antenna elements, including at least second and third Antenna elements extending from the first side to the second side such that at least a first portion of each of the further antenna elements comprising at least second and third antenna elements extends from the first side to the second side of the hearing instrument. The midpoint of each of the further antenna elements, including at least the second and third antenna elements, is disposed at the first portion of the antenna element extending from the first side to the second side. The midpoint of each of the further antenna elements may be a quarter of the transceiving wavelength, eg about a quarter of the transceiving wavelength, eg a quarter +/ of the transceiving wavelength (a) from each connection area -10%, for example by a distance corresponding to a quarter (in/4) of the transceiving wavelength λ (eg about a quarter of the transceiving wavelength, eg +/- 10% of the transceiving wavelength) and each separate connection areas. The distance and/or wavelength separating the midpoint of each further antenna element from the first connection region and/or the second connection region may be measured along each of the further antenna elements.

In some embodiments, the midpoint of the further antenna elements, including at least the second and third antenna elements, is where therefrom along each of the further antenna elements (including the at least second and third antenna elements) ) to the positions where the distances from the first connection region and the second connection region are respectively the same. Thus, the midpoint of the further antenna elements is eg a location, eg a position of a point, from which the distances along each of the further antenna elements to the first connection area and the second connection area are respectively similar (eg approximately the same, eg class comparison) location.

[0034] In some embodiments, the antenna is constructed such that, during intended operation, the current traveling through the antenna has a maximum magnitude in or near a first portion of each of the further antenna elements, the first portion including during transmission At least second and third antenna elements extending from the first side of the hearing instrument to the second side during the electromagnetic field. Advantageously, the current traveling through the antenna has a maximum amplitude in or near the first part of each of the further antenna elements, which extends from the first side to the second side of the hearing instrument during emission of the electromagnetic field, because This provides that the maximum high current portion of the antenna structure is arranged in the direction of the user's interaural axis, ie the high current portion of the antenna is arranged in a direction pointing away from the direction of the user's head, such as when placing the hearing instrument in the user's ear Orientation that is perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the side of the user's head in the intended operating position in or behind the ears. This is advantageous as it provides an increased electromagnetic field that travels around the user's head, eg more efficiently around the user's head, and thus can provide robust and low loss wireless data communication.

[0035] In some embodiments, the first branch extends along the first side and the first connection region is provided at the first side, and the second branch extends along the second side and the second connection region may be provided at the second side . The first branch and the second branch of the first antenna element may extend along opposite sides of the hearing instrument. The first connection area and the second connection area of the first antenna element may be arranged on opposite sides of the hearing instrument.

In some embodiments, the first branch extending along the first side and the second branch extending along the second side have similar shapes and/or forms, such as meandering shapes and/or forms, such as geometrical shapes and/or or form, such as a coiled shape and/or form. The first branch and the second branch may be symmetrical branches such that the shape and/or shape of the first branch corresponds to the form and/or shape of the second branch. Alternatively, the first branch extending along the first side and the second branch extending along the second side may have different (eg dissimilar, eg different) shapes and/or forms, eg meandering shapes and/or forms, eg Geometric shapes and/or shapes, such as coiled shapes and/or shapes.

In some embodiments, the first antenna element and at least two of the plurality of further antenna elements are wrapped around each other, such as arranged alongside each other, such as tracked in a similar pattern, such as tracked alongside each other in a similar pattern, such as in a similar Pattern tracking while the additional antenna elements maintain a constant distance, e.g. a substantially constant distance from each other, e.g. rolled up in

together, eg folded over each other. The pattern can be a meander pattern, a circular pattern, an elliptical pattern, any pattern that allows a compact antenna structure, and the like. A compact antenna structure may be an antenna structure that reduces the overall size of the antenna structure, preferably reducing the area covered by the antenna structure by 50%, eg 75% relative to a non-compact (eg longitudinal) pattern.

[0038] The plurality of additional antenna elements includes at least second and third antenna elements. In some embodiments, it is advantageous for the first antenna element and at least two of the plurality of further elements to wrap around each other, as this reduces the size of the antenna. Another advantage is that the currents flowing in the wrapped antenna elements can be better aligned and, for example, the current vectors reflecting the magnitude and direction of the currents can be better aligned, thereby maximizing current vector alignment. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a further advantage is that the resonant frequency of copper traces of the same length can be reduced, allowing for small antenna structures, while maintaining a small resonant frequency of the antenna structure, such as the desired, eg optimal, antenna structure the resonant frequency.

[0039] In some embodiments, each of the further antenna elements, including at least the second and third antenna elements, has a second portion extending from the first connection region along the first side of the hearing instrument. In some embodiments, each of the further antenna elements, including at least the second and third antenna elements, has a third portion extending from the second connection region along the second side of the hearing instrument.

In some embodiments, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the further antenna element, eg, the second portion of one or more of the further antenna elements, are in a meandering form and/or shape The arrangement and/or the second branch of the first antenna element and the third portion of the further antenna element are arranged in a meandering form and/or shape. In some embodiments, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the further antenna element, such as the second portion of one or more of the further antenna elements, are arranged in a coiled form, such as a helical form, For example in a helical form, for example in a coiled form, for example in a twisted form, etc., and/or the second branch of the first antenna element and the third part of the further antenna element, eg the third part of one or more of the further antenna elements Arranged in a coiled form, such as a helical form, such as a helical form, such as a coiled form, such as a twisted form, or the like. Therefore, the size of the antenna can be reduced. Furthermore, the current vectors, which indicate the magnitude and direction of the current flowing in the antenna elements, can be better aligned, thereby maximizing current vector alignment. Furthermore, it can reduce the resonant frequency of copper traces of the same length, allowing small antenna structures, while maintaining a small resonant frequency of the antenna structure, such as the desired, eg optimal, resonant frequency of the antenna.

The first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the plurality of further antenna elements, such as one or more of the plurality of further antenna elements, may be combined with the second branch of the first antenna element and the plurality of further antenna elements The third portion of the additional antenna element has the same or similar shape and form, including the same or similar length, the same or similar geometry, and the like. Alternatively, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the plurality of further antenna elements, such as one or more of the plurality of further antenna elements, may be combined with the second branch of the first antenna element and the plurality of additional antenna elements The third portion of the antenna element has different shapes and forms, including dissimilar or different lengths, dissimilar or different geometries, and the like.

In some embodiments, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the further antenna element, such as the second portion of one or more of the further antenna elements, are arranged in the same coiled form, cause the first branch of the first antenna element and the second part of the further antenna element, eg one or more further antenna elements, to follow the same path, and/or the second branch of the first antenna element and the further antenna element The third part of the is arranged in the same coil form, so that the second branch of the first antenna element and the third part of the further antenna element follow the same path. Thus, the path traced by the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the plurality of further antenna elements may be symmetrical to the path traced by the second branch of the first antenna element and the third portion of the plurality of second antenna elements. Thus, the hearing instrument may emit substantially the same electromagnetic field regardless of whether the hearing instrument is located in the user's right or left ear. Alternatively, the path traced by the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the plurality of further antenna elements may be the same as the first antenna

The paths traced by the second branch of the element and the third portion of the third antenna element are not symmetrical.

In some embodiments, the first branch of the first antenna element and the second portion of the further antenna element are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path, and/or the second branch of the first antenna element and further The third portion of the antenna element is disposed with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path. Thus, the distance between the elements is constant along at least a portion of the length of the portion.

[0044] In some embodiments, each of the additional antenna elements has about the same length, eg, a similar length. Alternatively or additionally, the length of each of the further antenna elements (eg a plurality of further antenna elements comprising at least second and third antenna elements) may be slightly different, eg slightly offset from each other, eg +/- 10%, For example deviation +/5%.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first portion of at least some of the further antenna elements, eg a plurality of further antenna elements comprising at least the second and third antenna elements, is a straight portion.

[0046] In some embodiments, the additional antenna elements, eg, a plurality of additional antenna elements, are arranged in different planes. Alternatively, at least some of the further antenna elements, eg a plurality of further antenna elements, are provided in the same plane. Alternatively, all further antenna elements, eg a plurality of further antenna elements, are provided in the same plane.

[0047] In some embodiments, a plurality of further antenna elements, eg, further antenna elements including at least second and third antenna elements, are connected in parallel. In some embodiments, radiation resistance and antenna efficiency may be increased by connecting multiple additional antenna elements in parallel.

It has been found that radiation resistance and antenna efficiency can be increased by interconnecting a first antenna element with a plurality of further antenna elements, such as interconnecting a wrapped first antenna element with a plurality of wrapped further antenna elements, For example, the first antenna element is interconnected with a plurality of further antenna elements, wherein at least two of the antenna elements wrap around each other.

Embodiments of the present disclosure enable better control of the fundamental tradeoff between antenna size, bandwidth, and efficiency. Furthermore, antenna efficiency can be maintained while reducing antenna size, thereby providing a smaller (eg reduced size) antenna while maintaining (eg maintaining, eg maintaining) satisfactory (eg acceptable, eg normal) , eg a standard, eg an appropriate) antenna efficiency level, thereby providing a small but efficient antenna.

Description of drawings

The above and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

1 shows a block diagram of an exemplary hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

2 schematically illustrates an exemplary antenna for a hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

3a and 3b schematically illustrate an exemplary antenna for a hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

4 schematically illustrates an exemplary antenna for a hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

5 schematically illustrates an exemplary antenna for a hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

6a and 6b schematically illustrate a behind-the-ear hearing instrument with an exemplary antenna according to the present disclosure,

7a and 7b schematically illustrate a behind-the-ear hearing instrument with an exemplary antenna according to the present disclosure,

8 schematically shows a 2D representation of an antenna configured for an in-ear hearing instrument according to the present disclosure,

[0059] FIG. 9 schematically shows a 3D representation of an antenna configured for an in-ear hearing instrument according to the present disclosure.

List of reference numerals

2 hearing instruments

<td>[0062]</td><td>3 microphones</td>

<td>[0063]</td><td>5 speakers</td>

<td>[0064]</td><td>8 wireless communication units</td>

<td>[0065]</td><td>9 Signal Processor</td>

<td>[0066]</td><td>10 Antennas</td>

<td>[0067]</td><td>11 Power</td>

<td>[0068]</td><td>12 Compensation filters</td>

<td>[0069]</td><td>13 First Antenna Element</td>

<td>[0070]</td><td>14, 16, 17 multiple additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0071]</td><td>18 First Branch</td>

<td>[0072]</td><td>20 Second Branch</td>

<td>[0073]</td><td>21 substrate</td>

<td>[0074]</td><td>22 The first connection area</td>

<td>[0075]</td><td>23 Second connection area</td>

<td>[0076]</td><td>14 Second Antenna Element</td>

<td>[0077]</td><td>16 Third Antenna Element</td>

<td>[0078]</td><td>17 Fourth Antenna Element</td>

<td>[0079]</td><td>28 The first feeder</td>

<td>[0080]</td><td>30 Second feeder</td>

<td>[0081]</td><td>32 first feed area</td>

<td>[0082]</td><td>38 Second feed area</td>

<td>[0083]</td><td>40 The first end of the first branch</td>

<td>[0084]</td><td>42 The first end of the second branch</td>

<td>[0085]</td><td>43 First Distance</td>

<td>[0086]</td><td>48 Second Distance</td>

<td>[0087]</td><td>50 first side</td>

<td>[0088]</td><td>52 second side</td>

<td>[0089]</td><td>54, 56 the first segment of each of the additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0090]</td><td>58 third side</td>

<td>[0091]</td><td>60 top side</td>

<td>[0092]</td><td>64, 66 midpoints of each of the additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0093]</td><td>74, 76 the second segment of each of the additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0094]</td><td>84, 86 the third segment of each of the additional antenna elements</td>

<td>[0095]</td><td>100 periodic bounding boxes</td>

<td>[0096]</td><td>101 First Boundary Point</td>

<td>[0097]</td><td>102 Second Boundary Point</td>

<td>[0098]</td><td>103 Third Boundary Point</td>

<td>[0099]</td><td>104 fourth boundary point</td>

Detailed ways

[0100] In some embodiments, the hearing instrument includes at least one behind-the-ear module configured to be positioned behind the ear of the user when set in its intended operating position. Traditionally, a behind-the-ear module includes at least a signal processor, a wireless communication unit, and in some embodiments at least one antenna element. Often a hearing instrument battery is also provided behind the ear element.

The hearing instrument may be a behind-the-ear hearing instrument, wherein the behind-the-ear module comprises hearing instrument components arranged as components and mounted in a housing configured to be worn behind the ear of a user in an operating position . Typically, the sound tube extends from the hearing instrument housing to the user's ear canal.

The hearing instrument may be an in-ear receiver type hearing instrument, wherein the receiver is positioned in the user's ear, such as in the ear canal, during use, for example as part of an in-the-ear module, while other hearing instrument components such as the processor, A wireless communication unit, a battery, and the like are provided as a behind-the-ear module. Typically, wires/cables or tubes connect the in-ear module and the behind-the-ear module. It is envisaged that a tube module comprising a tube or wires/cables may include additional hearing instrument components and connectors, and the wires/cables may be provided in the tube.

[0103] The hearing instrument may be an in-the-ear or full-canal hearing instrument, wherein the hearing instrument is disposed in the user's ear. Thus, the in-ear module includes hearing instrument components including a processor, a wireless communication unit, a battery, a microphone and a speaker, among others.

[0104] The in-ear module may have one or more portions that extend into the ear canal. Thus, the in-ear module can be configured to be positioned in the ear and ear canal.

[0105] Any combination of modules as described above and any distribution of hearing instrument components between modules can be envisaged. For example, a hearing instrument in which most of the hearing instrument components are arranged in the in-ear module may eg have a power supply (eg a battery) which is arranged in the behind-the-ear module and only has a power connection via the tube module. In some examples, the behind-the-ear module may also include one or more antenna elements.

[0106] For example, in some embodiments, a behind-the-ear hearing instrument may be provided having a behind-the-ear module, an in-ear module, and a connection between the two modules (eg, a tube module). Typically, hearing instrument components can be distributed between modules. In many hearing instruments, the receiver is located in the in-ear module. In some embodiments, the hearing instrument has an in-ear module and no behind-the-ear module. For example, the hearing instrument may consist of an in-ear module, wherein all hearing instrument components are arranged in the in-ear module. In some embodiments, the hearing instrument has an in-ear module and an additional module interconnected to the in-ear module, the additional module may be configured to be disposed in the outer ear, eg, in the concha of the ear, in the helix of the ear, the The add-on module can be configured to be positioned anywhere on the ear that is not behind the user's ear. Additional modules may include microphones and/or other transducer components, batteries, and the like.

This and other types of hearing instruments are commonly marketed under the names such as ITE (full in-the-ear), RIE (half-in-the-ear), ITC (in-the-canal), IIC (in-the-ear), CIC (Complete Canal), MIH (Microphone in Helix), etc.

[0108] It should be understood that the speaker of a hearing instrument is also referred to in the art as a "receiver".

[0109] Various embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numbers refer to the same elements throughout. Therefore, the same elements will not be described with respect to the description of each drawing. It should also be noted that the drawings are only intended to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or as a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. Additionally, the illustrated embodiments need not have all of the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or advantage described in connection with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment, and may be practiced in any other embodiment, even if not so shown, or if not so explicitly described.

[0110] The same reference numbers are used for the same or corresponding parts throughout.

[0111] A block diagram of an exemplary hearing instrument 2 is shown in FIG. 1 . The hearing instrument 2 includes a microphone 3 for receiving the input sound and converting it into an audio signal, ie a first audio signal. The first audio signal is provided to a signal processor 9 for processing the first audio signal into a second audio signal compensating for the hearing loss of the user of the hearing instrument 2 . The loudspeaker 5 is connected to the output of the signal processor 9 for converting the second audio signal into an output sound signal, eg a signal modified to compensate for the hearing impairment of the user.

[0112] Thus, the hearing instrument signal processor 9 includes elements such as amplifiers, compressors, and noise reduction systems. The hearing instrument may also have a filtering function, eg a compensation filter 12 for optimizing the output signal. The hearing instrument may also have a wireless communication unit 8 for wireless data communication interconnected with an antenna 10 for transmitting and receiving electromagnetic fields. A radio communication unit 8 (eg a radio or transceiver) is connected to the hearing instrument signal processor 9 and the antenna 10 for communication with an external device, another hearing instrument (eg another hearing instrument located in the other ear (usually) In a binaural hearing instrument system)) etc. The hearing instrument 2 also includes a power source 11, such as a battery.

[0113] The hearing instrument may include a portion configured to be positioned behind the ear of the user, the hearing instrument may include a behind-the-ear module, and the hearing instrument may be a behind-the-ear hearing instrument. Alternatively, the hearing instrument may comprise a portion configured to be positioned in the ear of the user, the hearing instrument may comprise an in-ear module, and the hearing instrument may be arranged as an in-the-ear hearing instrument.

[0114] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary antenna 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Antenna 10 is shown disposed on a flexible substrate 21, such as a flexible plastic substrate. The antenna 10 is configured to be arranged in a behind-the-ear hearing instrument (not shown), eg in a behind-the-ear module.

[0115] The antenna 10 comprises a first antenna element 13 (dash-dotted line) and a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (solid and dashed lines). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 forms a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13 . The plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 include at least a second antenna element 14 and a third antenna element 16 . However, it is envisaged that the plurality of further antenna elements may comprise more than 2 antenna elements, eg 3, eg 4, eg 5, eg up to 10 further antenna elements.

[0116] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). The first branch 18 includes a first connection region 22 . The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23 . Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 interconnects the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23 .

[0117] As shown in FIG. 2 , the first branch 18 has a first feed at the first feed area 32 and the second branch 20 has a second feed at the second feed area 38 . The first feed region 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch 18 . The second feed region 38 is disposed along the first end 42 of the second branch 20 . The first power feeder and the second power feeder of the antenna 10 are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown). One feed of the antenna may be connected to ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed of the antenna may be connected to the wireless communication unit, for example to a transceiver or radio in the wireless communication unit .

[0118] The first antenna element 13, the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16 are arranged in a meander shape and/or form, and it can be seen that the meander antenna pattern allows for a compact antenna structure.

[0119] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 is configured to be arranged at the first partition X1 of the flexible substrate 21, and the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 is configured to be arranged at the second portion of the flexible substrate 21 Partition X2. The bridging portion X3 of the flexible substrate is configured to interconnect the first partition X1 and the second partition X2 of the flexible substrate. The flexible substrate is configured to be folded around a hearing instrument, for example around a behind-the-ear hearing instrument or a behind-the-ear module, eg wherein the bridging portion X3 is arranged on the top side of the behind-the-ear hearing instrument or module, and the first section of the flexible substrate X1 and the second partition X2 are distributed along the first and second sides

so that the partitions X1 and X2 are arranged on opposite sides of the behind-the-ear hearing instrument or the behind-the-ear module.

[0120] FIG. 3a shows an exemplary antenna 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna 10 is shown disposed on a flexible substrate 21 and is configured to be disposed at a behind-the-ear hearing instrument (not shown), such as a behind-the-ear module.

[0121] The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 (solid line) and a second antenna element 24 (dotted line). The first antenna element 13 is interconnected with the second antenna element 24 . The second antenna element 24 is configured to form a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13 .

[0122] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). The first branch 18 includes a first connection region 22 . The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23 . The second antenna element 24 interconnects the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23 .

3a, the first branch 18 has a first feed of the antenna 10 at the first feed area 32, and the second branch 20 has a second feed of the antenna 10 at the second feed area 38 feeder. The first feed region 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch 18 . The second feed region 38 is disposed along the first end 42 of the second branch 20 . The first power feeder of the antenna 10 and the second power feeder of the antenna 10 are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown). One feed of the antenna may be connected to ground potential, eg to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed of the antenna may be connected to the wireless communication unit, eg to a transceiver or radio in the wireless communication unit .

[0124] The first axis 301 and the second axis 302 divide the second antenna element 24 into a first segment 54, a second segment 74 and a third segment 84.

[0125] The flexible substrate 21 is configured to be folded around at least a portion of the hearing instrument, eg, around at least a portion of a behind-the-ear hearing instrument or a behind-the-ear module. In some embodiments, the first axis 301 and the second axis 302 may show edge portions of the hearing instrument or module such that, for example, the second segment 74 extends along the first side of the hearing instrument and the third segment 84 extends along the hearing instrument. The other side of the instrument extends. The first side may be opposite the second side. The first side may be the first longitudinal side of the hearing instrument and the second side may be the second longitudinal side. The first segment 54 may interconnect the second segment 74 and the third segment 84, and may be configured, for example, to be arranged on the top side of the hearing instrument or module.

[0126] The second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 extends from the first connection region 22. The third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 extends from the second connection region 23 . The first segment 54 is a straight segment, eg, a substantially straight segment. The first segment 54 connects the second segment 74 with the third segment 84 .

The first antenna element 13 and the second antenna element 24 wrap each other such that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 wrap each other, and the The second branch 20 of an antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 surround each other .

the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in a meander shape and/or form, and the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the second antenna element The third segment of 24 is arranged in a zigzag shape and/or form. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in a coil shape and/or form. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in a coil shape and/or form.

3a, the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 wrap around each other, thereby providing a The third segments 84 of the two antenna elements 24 wrap around each other in a similar and/or mirrored shape and/or form. Alternatively, the shape and/or form in which the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 wrap around each other may differ from the shape and/or form of the second branch 20 and the second branch of the first antenna element 13 . The shape and/or form in which the third segments 84 of the antenna element 24 wrap around each other. It can be seen that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 wrap around each other such that the

The first branch 18 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 follow the same or similar pattern. The first branch 18 and the second segment 74 are co-aligned so that the current vector of any current flowing through the antenna element will be co-aligned. As can be seen, the distance between the first branch 18 and the second segment 74 has the same or similar dimensions along most of the surrounding segments/elements. The distance between the first branch 18 and the second segment 74 may be uniform along a majority of the wrapping segments/elements (eg, along 80% wrapping segments/elements). The same applies to the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and to the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, with appropriate modifications.

As shown, the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in the same coil shape and/or form such that the first The branch 18 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 follow the same path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 are arranged in the same coil shape and/or form, so that the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the second antenna element 24 The third segment 84 traces the same path. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path.

[0131] FIG. 3b shows an exemplary antenna 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Antenna 10 is shown disposed on a flexible substrate 21, eg a flexible plastic substrate (grey line), and is configured to be disposed at a behind-the-ear hearing instrument (not shown), eg at a behind-the-ear module.

[0132] The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 (solid line) and a plurality of further antenna elements 24,26. The plurality of further antenna elements include a second antenna element 24 (dotted line) and a third antenna element 26 (dashed line). The first antenna element 13 is interconnected with a plurality of further antenna elements 24 , 26 including a second antenna element 24 and a third antenna element 26 . Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 24 , 26 (including the second antenna element 24 and the third antenna element 26 ) forms a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13 .

[0133] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). The first branch 18 includes a first connection region 22 . The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23 . A plurality of further antenna elements 24 , 26 (including a second antenna element 24 and a third antenna element 26 ) interconnect the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23 .

As shown in FIG. 3b, the first branch 18 has the first feeding part 28 of the antenna structure at the first feeding area 32, and the second branch 20 has the first feeding part 28 of the antenna structure at the second feeding area 38 Two feeders 30 . The first feed area 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch. The second feed region 38 is disposed along the first end 42 of the second branch. The first feed 28 of the antenna structure and the second feed 30 of the antenna structure are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown). One feed of the antenna may be connected to ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed of the antenna may be connected to the wireless communication unit, for example to a transceiver or radio in the wireless communication unit .

The first axis 301 and the second axis 302 divide the plurality of further antenna elements 24, 26, including the second antenna element 24 and the third antenna element 26, into a first segment 54, 56, a second segment Segments 74 , 76 and third segments 84 , 86 . The second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 extend from the first connection region 22 . The third section 84 of the second antenna element 24 and the third section 86 of the third antenna element 26 extend from the second connection region 23 . The first segments 54, 56 are straight segments, eg substantially straight segments. The first segments 54 , 56 connect the second segments 74 , 76 with the third segments 84 , 86 .

the first antenna element 13, the second antenna element 24 and the third antenna element 26 surround each other such that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the third The second segments 76 of the antenna element 26 wrap around each other

winding and such that the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 are wound around each other.

[0137] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in a meander shape and/or form. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in a meander shape and/or form. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in a helical shape and/or form. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in a spiral and/or form. It can be seen that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 , the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 wrap around each other such that the first branch of the first antenna element 13 A branch 18, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 follow the same or similar pattern. The first branch 18, the second segment 74 and the second segment 76 are co-aligned so that the current vectors of any current flowing through the antenna element will be co-aligned. It can be seen that the distance between the first branch 18, the second segment 74 and the second segment 76 has same or similar size. The distances between the first branch 18, the second segment 74, and the second segment 76 may be uniform along a majority of the wrapping segments/elements (eg, along 80% wrapping segments/elements). The same applies to the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 , the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 , with appropriate modifications.

3b shows the shape and/or form in which the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 wrap around each other The shape and/or form of the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 wrap around each other in a mirror image or similar manner. Alternatively, the shape and/or form in which the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are folded against each other may differ from the first The shape and/or form in which the second branch 20 of the antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 wrap around each other.

As shown, the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are in the same shape and/or form The arrangement is such that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24 and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 follow the same path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24 and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 are arranged in the same shape and/or form, so that the first antenna element 13 The second branch 20 of the second antenna element 24, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 trace the same path. The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13, the second segment 74 of the second antenna element 24, and the second segment 76 of the third antenna element 26 are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13, the third segment 84 of the second antenna element 24, and the third segment 86 of the third antenna element 26 are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path.

[0140] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates another exemplary antenna 10 in accordance with the present disclosure. The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 and a plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 . The plurality of further antenna elements include a second antenna element 14 , a third antenna element 16 and a fourth antenna element 17 . The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20 interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). The first branch 18 includes a first connection region 22 . The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23 . A plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 (including the second antenna element 14 , the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17 ) interconnect the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23 . First antenna element 13 and a plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17

(including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17) are interconnected. Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 (including the second antenna element 14 , the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17 ) forms a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13 .

[0141] Each of the additional antenna elements, including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17, have approximately the same length.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17 (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17) are arranged in different planes. A plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 (including the second antenna element 14 , the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17 ) are connected in parallel.

[0143] It should be emphasized that the connection areas 22, 23 may have shapes and extents configured according to the antenna configuration. The connection regions may be punctiform regions, they may be elongated regions, may have a length such that each of a plurality of further antenna elements may be connected in the connection region, and the like.

[0144] FIG. 5 schematically illustrates another example of an exemplary antenna 10 according to the present disclosure. The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13 and a plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 . The plurality of further antenna elements include a second antenna element 14 , a third antenna element 16 and a fourth antenna element 17 . The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20 interconnected with the wireless communication unit 8 . The first branch 18 includes a first connection region 22 . The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23 . A plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 (including the second antenna element 14 , the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17 ) interconnect the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23 . The first antenna element 13 is interconnected with a plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 including the second antenna element 14 , the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17 . Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 (including the second antenna element 14 , the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17 ) may form a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13 .

[0145] The first branches 18 of the first antenna element 13 are arranged in a meander and/or shape. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 is arranged in a meander and/or shape. As shown in FIG. 5 , the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 are formed in different forms and/or shapes. Alternatively, the first branch 18 and the second branch 20 may have similar forms and/or shapes. The form and/or shape of the first branch 18 and/or the second branch 20 may be any shape and/or form. In some embodiments, the first branch 18 and the second branch 20 have the same or similar lengths. In some embodiments, the first branch 18 and the second branch 20 have different lengths.

[0146] The first branch 18 has a first power feed 28 at the first power feed area 32, and the second branch 20 has a second power feed 30 at the second power feed area 38. The first feed region 32 is provided along the first end 40 of the first branch 18 . The second feed region 38 is disposed along the first end 42 of the second branch 20 . The first power feeder 28 of the antenna 13 and the second power feeder 30 of the antenna 13 are connected to the wireless communication unit 8 . One feed of the antenna may be connected to ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed of the antenna may be connected to the wireless communication unit, for example to a transceiver or radio in the wireless communication unit .

[0147] Each of the additional antenna elements (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16, and the fourth antenna element 17) have approximately the same length.

[0148] A plurality of further antenna elements (including the second antenna element 14, the third antenna element 16 and the fourth antenna element 17) are connected in parallel.

[0149] The first connection area 22 is separated from the first feed area 32 by a first distance 43, measured along the first antenna element 13, eg along the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13. The second connection area 23 is separated from the second feed area 38 by a second distance 48 measured along the first antenna element 13, eg along the second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13

Measurement. Antenna 10 is configured to transmit and receive electromagnetic fields having transceiving wavelengths (λ). The first distance 43 and/or the second distance 48 is between one eighth (1/8) and three eighth (3/8) of the transmit and receive wavelength (λ). As shown, the first distance 43 is different from the second distance 48 . Alternatively, the first distance 43 may be equal to, eg, the same as, the second distance 48 .

[0150] Each of the further antenna elements 14, 16, 17 has approximately the same length. The length of each antenna element, eg the length of the first antenna element 13 and the lengths of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16, 17, corresponds to half the length of the transceiving wavelength (λ).

[0151] Figures 6a and 6b illustrate an exemplary hearing instrument 2 with an antenna 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna 10 is shown disposed on a flexible plastic substrate 21 (grey line). A flexible plastic substrate 21 comprising the antenna 10 is shown wrapped around the hearing instrument 2, eg around a behind-the-ear hearing instrument.

[0152] The hearing instrument 2 has a first side 50 and a second side 52. Furthermore, the hearing instrument 2 has a third side 58 . In Figures 6a and 6b, the hearing instrument 2 is presented as viewed from two different angles. Figure 6a shows the first side 50 and the third side 58, while Figure 6b shows the second side 52 and the third side 58. Furthermore, the hearing instrument has a top side 60 . The top side 60 is the side that points generally (eg, substantially) upwards and/or backwards when the hearing instrument 2 is used by a user sitting or standing upright.

[0153] The antenna 10 comprises a first antenna element 13 (dotted line) and a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (solid and dashed lines). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 forms a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13 . The plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 include a second antenna element 14 and a third antenna element 16 . Alternatively, the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 may comprise additional antenna elements, eg a fourth antenna element, eg a fifth antenna element.

[0154] Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2. Thus, a plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 extend on the top side 60 of the hearing instrument 2 . The first side 50 is opposite the second side 52 .

[0155] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 includes a first connection region 22 . The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23 . The first branch 18 extends along the first side 50 . The first connection region 22 is arranged at the first side 50 . The second branch 20 extends along the second side 52 . The second connection region 23 is arranged at the second side 52 . The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 interconnects the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23 .

6a and 6b, the first branch 18 has the first feeding portion 28 of the antenna structure at the first feeding area 32, and the second branch 20 has the antenna at the second feeding area 38 The second feeder 30 of the structure. The first feed region 32 is disposed along the first end 40 of the first branch 18 . The second feed region 38 is disposed along the first end 42 of the second branch 20 . The first feed 28 of the antenna structure and the second feed 30 of the antenna structure are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown).

[0157] Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52. Thus, at least the first segment 54, 56 of each of the further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side of the hearing instrument 2 52. The first segments 54 , 56 extend along the top side 60 . The first segments 54, 56 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are straight segments. The midpoints 64 , 66 of each of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16 ) are provided at the top side 60 and thus extend from the first side 50 to the second At the first segment 54 , 56 of each of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 of the side 52 . The midpoints 64 , 66 of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16 ) are the distances from which it is along each of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 with the first connection area 22 and the third The distances between the two connection regions 23 are respectively the same (eg, approximately or substantially the same) positions. The midpoint may be, for example, at about a quarter of the wavelength of each connection region. [0158] The antenna 10 is constructed such that the current flowing through the antenna 10 has a maximum magnitude at or near the top side. Therefore, day

The wire 10 is constructed such that the current flowing through the antenna 10 extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2 during the emission of the electromagnetic field. The further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the second antenna element The first segment 54, 56 of each of the three antenna elements 16) has the largest amplitude in or near it.

[0159] The first branch 18 extending along the first side 50 and the second branch 20 extending along the second side 52 have a similar shape and/or form, eg, a similar meander shape and/or form. Alternatively, the first branch 18 extending along the first side 50 and the second branch 20 extending along the second side 52 may have different shapes and/or forms.

each of the further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) has a second segment extending from the first connection region 22 along the first side 50 of the hearing instrument 2 74, 76. Each of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16 ) has a third segment 84 , 86 extending from the second connection region 23 along the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2 .

[0161] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a meander and/or shape. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84 , 86 of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 are arranged in a meander and/or shape.

[0162] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are provided with uniform spacing along at least a part of the path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84, 86 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path.

[0163] Figures 7a and 7b illustrate an exemplary hearing instrument 2 with an antenna 10 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The antenna 10 is shown wrapped or folded around the hearing instrument 2 (eg, a behind-the-ear hearing instrument).

[0164] The hearing instrument 2 has a first side 50 and a second side 52. Furthermore, the hearing instrument 2 has a third side 58 . In Figures 7a and 7b, the hearing instrument 2 is presented as viewed from two different angles. Figure 7a shows the first side 50 and the third side 58, while Figure 7b shows the second side 52 and the third side 58. Furthermore, the hearing instrument has a top side 60 . The top side 60 is the side that points generally (eg, substantially) upward when the hearing instrument 2 is used by a user sitting or standing upright.

[0165] The antenna 10 comprises a first antenna element 13 (solid line) and a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (dotted and dashed lines). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 forms a resonant antenna structure with the first antenna element 13 . The plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 include a second antenna element 14 and a third antenna element 16 . Alternatively, the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 may comprise additional antenna elements, eg a fourth antenna element, eg a fifth antenna element.

[0166] Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2. Thus, a plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 extend on the top side 60 of the hearing instrument 2 . The first side 50 is opposite the second side 52 .

[0167] The first antenna element 13 includes a first branch 18 and a second branch 20. The first branch 18 includes a first connection region 22 . The second branch 20 includes a second connection area 23 . The first branch 18 extends along the first side 50 . The first connection region 22 is arranged at the first side 50 . The second branch 20 extends along the second side 52 . The second connection region 23 is arranged at the second side 52 . The first branch 18 and the second branch 20 are interconnected with a wireless communication unit (not shown). Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 interconnects the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23 .

7a and 7b, the first branch 18 has the first feeding portion 28 of the antenna structure at the first feeding area 32, and the second branch 20 has the antenna at the second feeding area 38 The second feeder 30 of the structure. The first feed region 32 is disposed along the first end 40 of the first branch 18 . The second feed region 38 is disposed along the first end 42 of the second branch 20 . The first feed 28 of the antenna structure and the second feed 30 of the antenna structure are connected to a wireless communication unit (not shown). One feed of the antenna may be connected to ground potential, for example to the ground potential of the wireless communication unit, and the other feed of the antenna may be

Connected to a wireless communication unit, eg to a transceiver or radio in the wireless communication unit.

[0169] Each of the plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side 52. Thus, at least the first segment 54, 56 of each of the further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) extends from the first side 50 to the second side of the hearing instrument 2 52. The first segments 54 , 56 extend along the top side 60 . The first segments 54, 56 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are straight segments. The midpoints 64 , 66 of each of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16 ) are provided at the top side 60 and thus extend from the first side 50 to the second At the first segments 54 , 56 of the antenna elements of the side 52 . The midpoints 64 , 66 of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16 ) are along each of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 respectively (including the second antenna element 14 ) therefrom and third antenna element 16 ) at the same distance (eg, approximately or substantially the same) from the first connection region 22 and the second connection region 23 . The midpoint may be, for example, at about a quarter of the wavelength of each connection region.

[0170] The antenna 10 is configured such that the current flowing through the antenna 10 has a maximum magnitude at or near the top side 60. Accordingly, the antenna 10 is constructed such that during emission of the electromagnetic field, the current flowing through the antenna 10 is at each of the further antenna elements 14, 16 extending from the first side 50 to the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2 (including The first segment 54, 56 of the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) has a maximum amplitude in or near it.

each of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16 ) has a second segment extending from the first connection region 22 along the first side 50 of the hearing instrument 2 74, 76. Each of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16 ) has a third segment 84 , 86 extending from the second connection region 23 along the second side 52 of the hearing instrument 2 .

[0172] The first antenna element and a plurality of further antenna elements 14, 16 (including the second antenna element 14 and the third antenna element 16) surround each other.

[0173] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a meander and/or shape. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84 , 86 of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 are arranged in a meander and/or shape.

the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in a coiled form, eg a helix, eg a helix, eg a coil, eg a twist Wait. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84 , 86 of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 are arranged in a coiled form, eg helical, eg helical, eg crimped, eg twisted or the like.

the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are arranged in the same coil form, so that the first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second Segments 74, 76 follow the same path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84 , 86 of the further antenna elements 14 , 16 are arranged in the same coil form, so that the second branch 20 and the third segment 84 of the first antenna element 13 are arranged , 86 trace the same path.

[0176] The first branch 18 of the first antenna element 13 and the second segments 74, 76 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path. The second branch 20 of the first antenna element 13 and the third segments 84, 86 of the further antenna elements 14, 16 are provided with uniform spacing along at least a portion of the path.

[0177] FIG. 8 schematically shows an antenna 10 configured for use in an in-the-ear hearing instrument (not shown). Using a periodic bounding box 100, FIG. 8 shows a 2D patterned antenna 10 configured to wrap around a cylindrical structure to obtain a 3D structure. The boundary points 101, 102, 103, 104 at one end of the periodic bounding box are connected to their respective corresponding points 101', 102', 103', 104' at the other end of the periodic bounding box 100 to create a 3D structure. The antenna 10 includes a first antenna element 13, a second antenna element

element 24 and third antenna element 26 . The first antenna element 13, the second antenna element 24 and the third antenna element 26 are all connected in the first connection area 22 and the second connection area 23, respectively. The antenna 10 is fed by the first feed 28 at the first feed area 32 and by the second feed 30 at the second feed area 38, respectively.

[0178] FIG. 9 shows an antenna 10 configured for use in an in-the-ear hearing instrument. The figure shows an antenna 10 having a 3D structure of a first antenna element 13 and a plurality of further antenna elements 14 , 16 , 17 . The antenna 10 is configured for wrapping eg around the battery of the hearing instrument 2 and/or the electronics within the hearing instrument 2 .

Although specific features have been shown and described, it should be understood that they are not intended to limit the claimed invention, and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that Various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the figures and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. The claimed invention is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents.