Next-generation hearing aids
The ʹDigital signal processing in audiologyʹ (AUDIS) project was set up to help develop signal processing algorithms and systems for the latest digital hearing instruments. The project looked to promote innovation in the interdisciplinary field of digital signal processing and audiology, and to train highly qualified scientists familiar with audiological evaluation methodology. AUDIS sponsored 13 early-stage research fellows, five experienced research fellows and visiting scientists. All fellows participated in a comprehensive research training programme with many network-wide scientific workshops and training sessions. Collaborative research was fostered by means of several two-week mini-projects, where several fellows worked on a common topic. The research performed by these fellows was grouped by topic: 'hearing and hearing impairments', 'cochlear implants' and 'optimal acoustic front-ends'. The AUDIS fellows worked on related innovative research projects that investigated new approaches to a number of relevant issues. The continuation of these research projects promises to yield a number of cutting-edge solutions to the signal processing challenges in hearing instruments. AUDIS also organised a winter school, a summer school and a final AUDIS workshop. All of these events featured presentations by leading researchers as well as active involvement of all research fellows. Progress in key technological areas in Europe is currently hindered by the shortage of thoroughly trained scientists and developers. The AUDIS network has clearly worked to fill this gap by providing highly trained and internationally well-connected scientists. It has also fostered sustainable cooperation between European research labs, visiting scientists and companies.
