WO2025153486A1

WO2025153486A1 - A receiver-in-canal assembly with adjustable sound paths

Info

Publication number: WO2025153486A1
Application number: PCT/EP2025/050786
Authority: WO
Inventors: Laurens De Ruijter; Daniel Richard DE BARRIE; Petrus Egbertus Henricus Hermsen; Caspar Titus Bolsman; Theodorus Geradus Maria Brouwer
Original assignee: Sonion Nederland BV
Current assignee: Sonion Nederland BV
Priority date: 2024-01-19
Filing date: 2025-01-14
Publication date: 2025-07-24
Anticipated expiration: 2026-07-19

Abstract

The invention relates to a receiver-in-canal (RIC) assembly, a hearing aid comprising the RIC assembly and a method for adjusting a RIC assembly. The RIC assembly comprises a housing and a channel configuration part that is connectable to the housing. The housing comprises an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged. A front end of the housing comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum. The channel configuration part comprises a wall for blocking sound and/or a channel for passing sound from the sound opening. The channel configuration part is adjustable for adjusting a position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver, for blocking or opening a sound path.

Description

A RECEIVER-IN-CANAL ASSEMBLY WITH ADJUSTABLE SOUND PATHS

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a receiver-in-canal assembly and a method for adjusting a receiver- in-canal assembly. The present invention further relates to a hearing aid system comprising such a receiver-in-canal assembly.

Background of the invention

In the field of hearing aids, the term "receiver" refers to the transducer that emits sound to the ear, but the receiver may also be referred to as "driver", "speaker" or "coil". As the name suggests, a receiver-in-canal (RIC) is insertable into the ear canal of a user to emit sound close to the tympanic membrane (eardrum). RICs are used in hearing aids.

Description of the invention

A hearing aid is typically tailored to a specific user by a configuration process, referred to as "fitting". For example, the hearing aid's settings are adjusted to match a hearing loss profile of the user. Fitting is typically performed by an audiologist. The quality of the fitting determines to a large extent the hearing improvement the user will experience due to the hearing aid.

To determine the user's hearing profile, the audiologist uses an audiometer to let a user listen to tones at different pitch and volume. An audiogram is produced based on the user's response. Specifically, the audiologist determines for each frequency at which threshold volume the user can still hear the tone. A drawback of this method is that the measurement is not accurate, as it depends on the user given accurate feedback. The fitting resulting from such measurement is thus sub-optimal. A higher quality fitting can be obtained using a real ear measurement, REM. In REM, the response of the ear to the output of the hearing aid is measured while the hearing aid is inserted in the ear. First, a microphone is inserted into the ear canal and then the hearing aid is inserted. In this manner, the microphone can measure the actual response of the eardrum to sounds emitted by the receiver. However, users experience REM as uncomfortable. Moreover, for the audiologist REM is much more time consuming than the traditional audiometer measurement. For these reasons, audiologists often still apply the traditional audiogram approach, even though the resulting fit is sub- optimal.

An aim of the invention is to improve the fitting procedure for in-canal hearing aid devices, or at least provide an alternative. This aim is achieved with the receiver-in-canal (RIC) assembly according to claim 1. The RIC assembly comprises a housing and a channel configuration part that is connectable to the housing. The housing comprises an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged. The housing comprises a front end and a back end. The front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space and the eardrum. The channel configuration part comprises a wall for blocking sound. Alternatively or additionally, the channel configuration part comprises a channel for passing sound from the sound opening. The channel configuration part is adjustable for adjusting a position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver to adjust the RIC assembly between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, a first sound path is blocked, while in the second configuration the first sound path is open. The first sound path comprises a sound path between the receiver and the microphone or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.

In other words, in the first configuration the wall and/or channel of the channel configuration part has a different position than in the second configuration. Changing the channel configuration part between these different positions selectively opens or block the first sound path.

In some embodiments, changing between the first and second configuration adjusts additional sound paths. For example, a second sound path is open (or blocked) in the first configuration and blocked (or open) in the second configuration. The second sound path is different from the first sound path. The second sound path comprises a sound path between the receiver and the microphone or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum. The channel configuration part is adjustable for adjusting the position of the wall for blocking sound and/or the channel for passing sound, which adjusts one or more sound paths to and from the microphone and/or the receiver. In this way, the channel configuration part enables adjusting the RIC assembly between at least two different configurations. Therefore, the invention enables performing different functions using the same microphone and receiver combination.

Particularly, in a preferred embodiment the RIC assembly is adjustable between a configuration for real ear measurements and a configuration for daily usage. Thus, the real ear measurement can be performed using the same device that is used for daily usage, which simplifies the REM process and saves time. After REM, the device can be switched to some other configuration for daily use.

For example, in a REM configuration the wall for blocking sound is positioned to separate two channels: a mic-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the microphone and the eardrum, and a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum. For daily usage, the wall is positioned differently, for example to provide a shared channel for passage of sound between the receiver, the microphone and the eardrum.

The invention is however not limited to switching between an REM configuration and some other configuration, as the invention also enables switching between two configurations for other purposes than REM.

Preferably, the channel configuration part is mechanically adjustable.

In the context of the invention, the wording that the channel configuration part is "adjustable" covers both the option that the channel configuration part has an adjustable position relative to the housing, and the option that the channel configuration part is exchangeable for a different channel configuration part.

In the context of the invention, "adjustable position" covers adjustment by translation and adjustment by rotation. Adjustment by rotation may also be referred to as adjusting the orientation.

According to a first aspect, the channel configuration part is detachably connectable to the housing and the assembly comprises at least one additional channel configuration part that is detachably connectable to the housing for exchanging the configuration parts to adjust the position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver.

According to a second aspect, the channel configuration part comprises a movable part for movement of the part relative to the housing for adjusting a position of the wall relative to the microphone and receiver. In an embodiment, the channel configuration part comprises an insert and the housing is configured for receiving the insert, wherein the insert comprises the wall for blocking sound, and the insert is movable into and out of the housing for adjusting the position of the wall relative to the microphone and receiver.

According to a third aspect, the channel configuration part comprises a single part that is connectable to the housing in different positions relative to the housing for adjusting a position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver. For example, the single part can be rotated or translated relative to the housing for changing the position of the single part relative to the housing.

In an alternative embodiment, the channel configuration part is deformable in a reversible manner to adjust the position of the wall for blocking sound and/or the channel.

The RIC assembly is for example provided as a kit that includes the housing and at least two channel configuration parts for connecting to the housing. Optionally, the kit is provided with one of the channel configuration parts already connected to the housing. In another example, the RIC assembly is provided with a single channel configuration part which is already connected to the housing or provided separately. In a further embodiment, one of the housing and the single part comprises a first coupling member and a second coupling member, and the other of the housing and the single part comprises a third coupling member configured to engage the first coupling member when the single part is in a first position relative to the housing for locking in said first position, and to engage the second coupling member when the single part is in a second position relative to the housing for locking in said second position.

In other words, the channel configuration part is lockable in at least two different positions relative to the housing for adjusting the position of the wall for blocking sound and/or the channel, relative to the microphone and receiver. Locking is not permanent, and the coupling means can be disengaged when applying an adequate force manually. An advantage of lockable positions is that it aids users in aligning the channel configuration in the different positions. Further, the locking prevents the channel configuration part from accidentally moving out of a selected position.

For example, in the first position the assembly is configured into the first split-channel configuration, and in the second position the assembly is configured in one of the other configurations.

For example, the first and second coupling members comprise protrusions and the third coupling member comprises an opening for engaging the protrusion. In another example, the first and second coupling members comprise openings and the third coupling member comprises a protrusion for engaging the opening.

In a further embodiment, the single part comprises a sleeve for sliding over the housing, and in the first position the sleeve extends further over the housing than in the second position.

For example, in the first position a wall of the single part abuts a structure within the housing for configuring the assembly into one of the split-channel configurations, and in the second position the wall is at a distance from said structure for configuring the assembly in the shared-channel configuration.

According to an embodiment, the channel configuration part is adjustable to adjust the RIC assembly between at least two of the following configurations: a first split-channel configuration, a shared-channel configuration, a second split-channel configuration and a blocking configuration. In the first split-channel configuration, the RIC assembly is configured to provide two separate channels: a mic-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the microphone and the eardrum, and a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum. In the shared-channel configuration, the RIC assembly is configured to provide a shared channel for passage of sound between the receiver, the microphone and ear canal. In the second split-channel configuration, the RIC assembly is configured to provide two separate channels: a mic-to-out channel for passage of sound between the microphone and an outside of the ear, and a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum. In the blocking configuration, passage of sound to and from the microphone is blocked.

For example, the first split-channel configuration is a REM configuration, i.e. a configuration for performing a real ear measurement using the RIC assembly.

For example, the shared-channel configuration is an active noise cancellation configuration (ANC), i.e. a configuration for performing ANC using the RIC assembly. ANC may include active occlusion reduction (AOR), which is a specific type of ANC. AOR is also referred to as active occlusion cancellation (AOC), and these terms are used interchangeably in the present disclosure. For example, the ANC configuration is also suitable for performing AOC.

For example, the second split channel configuration is a mic-out (configuration), i.e. a configuration for using the microphone of the RIC assembly to capture sound from the environment outside the ear. The signal of the microphone of the RIC assembly in the mic-out configuration can be used for improving the directionality perceived by the user of e.g. a hearing aid comprising the RIC assembly. A hearing aid typically comprises one or more microphones behind the ear. Since the microphone of the RIC assembly is, in use, positioned in the ear canal, its position is more realistic than the position of the behind-the-ear microphone(s). Particularly, the position of the microphone of the RIC assembly is closer to the position at which the ear naturally receives sound. Thus, the sound received by the RIC's microphone in the mic-out configuration more closely reflects the sound the ear would naturally capture, at least with respect to the directionality of the sound. In an example, an audio processing unit of the hearing aid is configured to use both the signal of the microphone of the RIC assembly in the mic-out configuration and the signal(s) from the behind-the-ear microphone(s) as input for generating an output signal for driving the receiver.

In the first split-channel configuration and/or the second split-channel configuration, the wall of the channel configuration part is positioned to separate the two separate channels ("blocking position"). In the shared-channel configuration, the wall of the channel configuration part is positioned away from the blocking position so that the channels are connected. When the channel configuration part is embodied as a single part which is connectable in different positions relative to the housing, changing the position of the channel configuration part moves the wall to or from its blocking position. When the RIC assembly comprises at least two exchangeable channel configuration parts, exchanging the channel configuration parts moves the wall to or from its blocking position.

For example, the RIC assembly is configured for adjusting between three different configurations. In a currently preferred embodiment, the RIC assembly is configured to be adjustable between no more and no less than two of the configurations listed above. In a first example, the RIC assembly is adjustable between the first split-channel configuration and the shared-channel configuration. In a second example, the RIC assembly is adjustable between the first split-channel configuration and the second split-channel configuration. In a third example, the RIC assembly is adjustable between the second split-channel configuration and the shared-channel configuration.

Preferably, the RIC assembly is configured to provide at least the first split-channel configuration, in view of performing an REM measurement.

In a further embodiment, the RIC assembly comprises at least two of the following exchangeable channel configuration parts: a first split-channel part, a shared-channel part, a second split-channel part, and a blocking part. The first split-channel part is designed for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the first split-channel configuration. The first split-channel part comprising a first wall for blocking sound configured to separate the mic-to- ear channel and the receiver-to-ear channel when the first split-channel part is connected to the housing. The shared-channel part is designed for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the second configuration when the shared-channel part is connected to the housing. The second split-channel part is designed for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the second split-channel configuration. The second split channel part comprises a second wall for blocking sound configured to separate the mic-to-out channel and the receiver-to-ear channel when the second split-channel part is connected to the housing. The blocking part is designed for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the blocking configuration. The blocking part comprises a third wall for blocking sound from reaching the microphone when the blocking part is connected to the housing.

Thus, at least two different channel configuration parts are provided that are exchangeable to enable performing two different functions with the same microphone and receiver combination.

In an embodiment, the channel configuration part comprises a dome, preferably a sleeve dome or a two-component snap dome. In embodiments wherein the RIC assembly comprises exchangeable channel configuration parts, all channel configuration parts are of course of the same type, e.g., all channel configuration parts are domes.

In another example, the channel configuration part comprises a spout. For example, the RIC assembly comprises at least two exchangeable spouts.

In an embodiment, the RIC assembly comprises a wax filter. For example, in embodiments comprising an insert as described above, the wax filter comprises an opening for receiving the insert. For example, the channel configuration part includes a wax bucket and a dome, each comprising an opening for inserting the insert through the wax bucket and the dome.

In an embodiment, the microphone is positioned closer to the front end of the housing than the receiver. The housing comprises two channels that extend from the receiver to the front end of the housing. The two channels of the housing are connected at the receiver to form a chamber. The receiver is configured to emit sound into the chamber. The microphone is arranged in one of the two channels of the housing. The channel configuration part is adjustable for positioning the wall at or away from a position between the chamber and the channel in which the microphone is arranged. Positioning the wall at or away said position opens or blocks passage of sound from the chamber to the channel in which the microphone is arranged.

The invention further relates to a hearing aid system according to claim 12. Such a hearing aid system comprises the receiver-in-canal assembly as described herein.

In a further embodiment, the hearing aid system comprises a controller to control the receiver and to process microphone signals generated by the microphone. The controller is switchable between at least two of the following settings: a real ear measurement (REM) setting; an active noise cancelling (ANC) setting; an active occlusion reduction (AOR) setting; and a microphone out (mic-out) setting. In the REM setting, the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform real ear measurement. In the ANC setting, the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform active noise cancelling. In the AOR setting, the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform active occlusion processing. In the mic-out setting, the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform microphone out processing.

In an embodiment, wherein the channel configuration part is adjustable to adjust the RIC assembly between at least two configurations (e.g. any two of the first split-channel configuration, the shared-channel configuration, the second split-channel configuration and the blocking configuration described above), the controller is configured to detect, using the microphone signal, in which of the at least two configurations the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured.

For example, the controller is configured to measure a frequency response of the microphone and compare the measured frequency response to one or more reference frequency responses. The one or more reference frequency responses include one or more of: a ANC reference response, an REM reference response, a mic-out reference response. Based on the comparison, the controller determines to which reference frequency response the measured frequency response matches, and determines that the RIC assembly is in the configuration associated with the matched reference response.

The comparison between the measured response and the reference response for example comprises computing a similarity measure between the measured frequency response and the one or more reference frequency responses. For example, the measure response and reference response are each represented as a vector, and the controller computes a dot product between the vector representing the measured response and a vector representing a reference response. The controller then selects the reference response for which the dot product has the highest value and/or for which the dot product exceeds a predetermined threshold.

In a further example, the controller is configured to measure and/or compare at least a high frequency portion of the frequency response of the microphone, as the differences in frequency response of the different configurations (e.g. ANC, REM, mic-out) are most pronounced in the high frequency range. For example, the high frequency portion includes frequencies above a predetermined frequency in the range of 1-5 kHz. For example, the high frequency portion includes frequencies above 2 kHz or above 3 kHz or above 4 kHz. In another example, the high frequency portion includes frequencies above 10 kHz.

Additionally or alternatively, the controller is configured to perform diagnostics using the microphone signal. For example, the controller is configured to detect whether sound levels are reduced as compared to reference levels. Reduced sound level may for example be an indication that a wax filter needs replacement.

The invention is not limited to hearing aid devices. For example, the RIC assembly can alternatively be used in an in-ear headphone, also known as earbuds. Thus, the invention further relates to an in-ear headphone comprising the RIC assembly of any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

The invention further relates to a method for adjusting a RIC assembly, according to claim 15.

The method comprises providing a RIC assembly comprising a housing and a channel configuration part connected to the housing. The housing comprises an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged. The housing comprises a front end and a back end. The front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum. The channel configuration part comprises a wall for blocking sound and/or a channel. The method further comprises adjusting the channel configuration part. Adjusting the channel configuration part adjusts a position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver. The channel configuration part is adjusted to open or block a first sound path of the RIC assembly. The first sound path comprises : a sound path between the receiver and the microphone; or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum; or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum. In particular, adjusting the channel configuration part adjust the RIC assembly between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration the first sound path is open, while in the second configuration the first sound path is blocked.

The same technical effects as described above in relation to the assembly and hearing aid system apply to the method. Moreover, any features of the system and hearing aid system described above can similarly be applied in the method. Preferably, the method is performed using the RIC assembly or the hearing aid system of any of the embodiments of this disclosure.

In a further embodiment, adjusting the channel configuration part adjusts the RIC assembly between at least two of the following configurations: a first split-channel configuration; a shared channel configuration; a second split-channel configuration; and a blocking configuration. In the first split-channel configuration, the RIC assembly provides two separate channels: a mic-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the microphone and the eardrum, and a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum. In the shared-channel configuration, the RIC assembly provides a shared channel for passage of sound between the receiver, the microphone and eardrum. In the second splitchannel configuration, the RIC assembly provides two separate channels: a mic-to-out channel for passage of sound between the microphone and an outside of the ear, and a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum.

In a further embodiment of the method, for adjusting the RIC assembly to the first or second split-channel configuration, adjusting the channel configuration part comprises: arranging the channel configuration part on the housing such that the wall of the channel configuration part separates the two separate channels. In a further embodiment, for adjustment to the shared- channel configuration, adjusting the channel configuration part comprises: moving the wall away to form the shared channel.

Brief description of the

In the following, example embodiments will be described with reference to the schematic drawings, wherein:

Figures 1-3 illustrate a RIC assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, with exchangeable sleeve domes;

Figures 4a-6 illustrate a RIC assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention, with exchangeable snap domes;

Figure 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the exchangeable snap dome of figures 4a-b;

Figures 8a-d illustrate a RIC assembly according to a third embodiment of the invention, with an insert;

Figure 9 illustrates a RIC assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, with a rotatable sleeve dome that comprises a sound blocking wall with adjustable position;

Figure 10 illustrates a RIC assembly according to a fifth embodiment of the invention, with a rotatable sleeve dome that comprises a channel with adjustable position; Figures lla-lld illustrate a RIC assembly according to a sixth embodiment of the invention, with a rotatable snap dome; and

Figures 12a-12b illustrate a RIC assembly according to a seventh embodiment of the invention, with a translatable sleeve dome with two lockable positions.

Detailed description of the drawings

Elements in a figure that correspond to elements in a different figure have been given the same reference numeral, increased by a multiple of 100, and the same description applies to such elements - unless otherwise specified.

Figures 1-3 show schematic cross-sectional views of a RIC assembly according to a first embodiment. The RIC assembly comprises three exchangeable sleeve domes to provide three different configurations 100, 200, 300, each enabling performing a different function with the RIC assembly.

The RIC assembly comprises a housing 2 that has an inner space in which a receiver 4 and a microphone 6 are arranged. The housing 2 has a front end F and a back end B. In use, the front end of the housing 2 is inserted into the ear canal first. Thus, during use the front end F of the housing 2 faces the eardrum, while the back end B of the housing is facing toward the outside.

The receiver 4 emits sound through an outlet 8. For example, the outlet 8 comprises an opening or spout. The microphone 6 has an inlet 10 for receiving sound. In the front end F of the housing 2, a first sound opening 14 and a second sound opening 16 are provided. The housing thus comprises two channels 18, 20 that extend from the receiver 4 to the front end F of the housing 2, to the first sound opening 14 and second sound opening 16, respectively. The two channels 18, 20 are connected to each other at a chamber 12 located at the receiver outlet 8. Thus, the receiver 4 is configured to emit sound into the chamber 12, and the chamber is connected to two channels 18, 20 of the housing 2. The inlet 10 of the microphone 6 is positioned in one of these channels, i.e. channel 20. In the embodiment of figures 1-3, the microphone 6 is positioned closer to the front end F of the housing 2 than the receiver 4.

In configuration 100, a first sleeve dome 150 is connected to the housing 2 for configuring the RIC assembly for REM functionality. In configuration 200, a second sleeve dome 250 is connected to the housing 2 for configuring the RIC assembly for ANC or AOR functionality. In configuration 300, a third sleeve dome 350 is connected to the housing 2 for configuring the RIC assembly for MIC-out functionality.

Each of the sleeve domes 150, 250, 350 comprise a dome 152, 252, 352 connected to a sleeve portion 153, 253, 353. Each sleeve portion 153, 253, 353 is connectable to housing 2 by sliding over the housing 2. The sleeve domes 150, 250, 350 are exchangeable to configure the RIC assembly into one of the configurations 100, 200, 300.

Sleeve dome 150 for REM configuration 100 includes two channels 154, 156. When the sleeve dome 150 is connected to the housing 2 (as in figure 1), channels 154, 156 align with sound openings 14 and 16 of the housing 2, respectively, for passing sound between the respective sound opening 14, 16 and the eardrum. Sleeve dome 150 further comprises a sound blocking wall 158. When the sleeve dome 150 is connected to the housing 2, the sound blocking wall 158 is positioned in the channel 20 in which the microphone inlet 10 is arranged. Specifically, the sound blocking wall 158 is positioned between the receiver 4 and the microphone inlet 10 for blocking sound passage, within the assembly, from the receiver outlet 8 to the microphone inlet 10. While one end of channel 20 is blocked by wall 158, the other end of channel 20 remains open, for allowing sound passage from the eardrum towards the microphone inlet 10. The sound channel 18 also remains open for allowing sound passage from the receiver outlet 8 to the eardrum.

Sleeve dome 250 for ANC configuration 200 includes a channel 256 for passing sound between sound opening 16 and the eardrum. When the sleeve dome 250 is connected to the housing 2 (as in figure 2), channel 256 aligns with sound opening 16 of the housing 2. Sleeve dome 250 further comprises a sound blocking wall 258. When the sleeve dome 250 is connected to the housing 2, the sound blocking wall 258 blocks sound opening 14 of the housing 2. Specifically, the wall 258 prevents the first channel 18 from passing sound between the receiver outlet 8 and the eardrum (not shown). The second channel 20, remains open. As the microphone inlet 10 is positioned in the second channel 20, the sound path between the receiver and microphone remains open.

Sleeve dome 350 for MIC-out configuration 300 includes channels 354 and 356 for passing sound from the sound openings 14 and 16, respectively. Channel 354 is open toward a front end of the sleeve dome 350, whereas channel 356 has an opening 360 in a side wall of the sleeve dome 350. The dome 350 thus provides a channel 356 for passage of sound between the microphone inlet 10 and the side opening 360, to enable the microphone to capture sound from outside the ear. The side opening 360 is positioned between the back end B and the dome 352, such that the dome 352 a least partially blocks sound passage between the side opening 360 and the eardrum.

Sleeve dome 350 further comprises a sound blocking wall 358. Sound blocking wall 358 is positioned between the receiver 4 and the microphone inlet 10 for blocking sound passage, within the assembly, from the receiver outlet 8 to the microphone inlet 10. While one end of channel 20 is blocked by wall 158, the other end of channel 20 remains open, for allowing sound passage from the environment towards the microphone inlet 10 via side opening 360. The sound channel 18 remains open for allowing sound passage from the receiver outlet 8 to the eardrum.

In the embodiment of figures 1-3, the RIC assembly comprises three sleeve domes 150, 250, 350. Alternatively, a different number of exchangeable sleeve domes is provided. For example, two sleeve domes are provided, e.g. sleeve domes 150 (for REM) and 250 (for ANC or AOR).

Figures 4a-6 show schematic cross-sectional views of a RIC assembly according to a second embodiment. Figure 4a, 5a, 6a show longitudinal cross-sections. Figures 4b and 5b show lateral cross-sections through lines C-C of figures 4a and 5a, respectively. The RIC assembly of figures 4a-6 comprises three exchangeable snap domes to provide three different configurations 400, 500, 600, each configuration enabling a different functionality.

The receiver 4 emits sound through an outlet 8. For example, the outlet 8 comprises an opening or spout. The microphone 6 has an inlet 10 for receiving sound. The front end F of the housing 2 is open and forms a sound opening 14 for sound passage between the receiver outlet 8 and the ear drum and for sound passage between the eardrum and the microphone inlet 10. The housing 2 comprises a channel 18 that extends from the outlet 8 of the receiver 4 to the sound opening 14 in the front end F of the housing 2. In the embodiment of figures 4a-6, the microphone 6 is positioned closer to the front end F of the housing 2 than the receiver 4. The housing 2 is provided with a connection 22, e.g. one or more electrical wires, for e.g. providing drive signals to the receiver 4.

In configuration 400, a first snap dome 450 is connected to the housing 2 for configuring the RIC assembly for REM functionality. In configuration 500, a second snap dome 550 is connected to the housing 2 for configuring the RIC assembly for ANC or AOR functionality. In configuration 600, a third snap dome 650 is connected to the housing 2 for configuring the RIC assembly for MIC-out functionality. In the illustrated embodiment, the snap domes 450, 550, 650 are so called two-component snap domes, also referred to as "2k snap domes".

Each of the snap domes 450, 550, 650 comprises a dome 452, 552, 652 connected to a tubular body 453, 553, 653. Each body 453, 553, 653 is connectable to the housing 2 using a snap connection (not illustrated). The snap domes 450, 550, 650 are exchangeable to configure the RIC assembly into one of the configurations 400, 500, 600. Snap dome 450 for REM configuration 400 comprises two channels 454, 456 that are separated by a sound blocking wall 458. The snap dome 450 is optionally provided with a wax filter 462 that allows passage of sound but prevents ear wax from entering body 453 or housing 2.

When snap dome 450 is connected to housing 2, channel 454 aligns with channel 18 for passing sound between sound opening 18 and the eardrum. Thus, channel 454 provides a sound path between the receiver outlet 8 and the eardrum. Channel 456 aligns with the microphone inlet 10, and a sound path between the microphone inlet 10 and the eardrum is provided. The wall 458 blocks passage of sound between channel 18 and channel 456, i.e. the wall 458 blocks sound passage, within the assembly, between the receiver outlet 8 and the microphone inlet 10.

Snap dome 550 for ANC configuration 500 does not contain a sound blocking wall. Tubular body 553 of snap dome 550 encompasses a chamber 564. When snap dome 550 is connected to housing 2, chamber 564 encloses microphone outlet 10 and sound opening 14 to allow sound passage between receiver outlet 8, microphone inlet 10 and the eardrum.

Snap dome 650 for MIC-out configuration 600 comprises two channels 654, 656 that are separated by a sound blocking wall 658. When snap dome 650 is connected to housing 2, channel 654 aligns with channel 18. Thus, channel 654 provides a sound path between the receiver outlet 8 and the eardrum. The dome 650 provides a further channel 656 that enables sound passage between the microphone inlet 10 and a side opening 660 in the body 653. This enables the microphone to capture sound from outside the ear. The side opening 660 is located in a side wall of body 653, and positioned between the back end B and the dome 652. In this manner, dome 652 at least partially blocks sound passage between the side opening 660 and the eardrum.

The wall 658 blocks passage of sound between channel 654 and channel 656, i.e. the wall 658 blocks sound passage, within the assembly, between the receiver outlet 8 and the microphone inlet 10.

In the embodiment of figures 4a-6, the RIC assembly comprises three snap domes 450, 550, 650. Alternatively, a RIC assembly is provided with a different number of exchangeable snap domes. For example, two snap domes are provided, e.g. snap domes 450 (for REM) and 550 (for ANC or AOR).

Figure 7 shows an alternative to Figure 4b, wherein the channel 754, the channel 756 and the sound blocking wall 758 each have a circular cross section. Similar to figure 4b, the sound channel 754 is arranged for passing sound between the receiver outlet 8 and the eardrum, the sound channel 756 is arranged for passing sound between the microphone inlet 10 and the eardrum, and the sound blocking wall 758 blocks passage of sound between channels 754 and 756. Figures 8a-d show a schematic cross-sectional view of a RIC assembly according to a third embodiment. Figures 8a and 8c show a longitudinal cross-section. Figures 8b and 8d show a lateral cross section through lines D-D of figures 8a and 8c, respectively.

The third RIC assembly comprises a housing 2 in which a receiver 4 and a microphone 6 are arranged. The housing 2 has a front end F and a back end B. In use, the front end of the housing 2 is inserted into the ear canal first. Thus, during use the front end F of the housing 2 faces the eardrum, while the back end B of the housing is facing toward the outside.

The receiver 4 emits sound through an outlet 8. For example, the outlet 8 comprises an opening or spout. The microphone 6 has an inlet 10 for receiving sound.

A spout 11 is formed at the front end F of the housing 2. The front end of the spout 11 comprises a sound opening (not shown) for sound passage between the receiver outlet 8 and the ear drum and for sound passage between the eardrum and the microphone inlet 10. A dome 50 is connectable to the spout 11. A wax bucket 62 is insertable in spout 11 for preventing ear wax from entering housing 2. The housing 2 has a chamber 12. The receiver 4 is arranged to emit sound into chamber 12. Microphone 6 is arranged to receive sound from chamber 12.

In the embodiment of figures 8a-d, the microphone 6 is positioned closer to the front end F of the housing 2 than the receiver 4.

The RIC assembly of figures 8a-d further comprises an insert 58. Insert 58 is insertable into housing 2. Figures 8a and 8b show an ANC configuration 800a, wherein the insert 58 is not placed into the housing 2. Figures 8c and 8d show an REM configuration 800b, wherein the insert 58 is inserted into the housing 2.

In the illustrated embodiment, insert 58 is inserted through dome 50 and wax bucket 62. For this purpose, the dome 50 and wax bucket 62 comprise a through-hole for receiving insert 58 (not shown). In a first alternative, only wax bucket 62 comprises a through hole for receiving insert 58, whereas dome 50 does not contain a through-hole for receiving insert 58 (although dome 50 may comprises other holes e.g. for sound passage). In this alternative embodiment, insert 58 is inserted into housing 2 by removing dome 50, inserting insert 58 through the through-hole of wax bucket 62 and re-connecting dome 50 to the housing 2. In a second alternative, neither the wax bucket nor the dome 50 comprise a through hole for receiving insert 58 (although one of them or both may comprise other holes e.g. for sound passage). In this second alternative, insert 58 is positioned in housing 2 by removing dome 50 and wax bucket 62, inserting insert 58, and reconnecting dome 50 and wax bucket 62 to the housing 2.

In another alternative, a two exchangeable wax buckets 62 is provided, one of which has an insert 58 attached thereto. Figure 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a RIC assembly according to a fourth embodiment. The RIC assembly is adjustable between a REM configuration 900a and an ANC configuration 990b. The housing 2 is the same as in Figures 1-3, and the description of its elements will not be repeated. In addition to the housing 2, the RIC assembly comprises a sleeve dome 950 that is connectable to the housing 2 in two different orientations. Similar to sleeve dome 150 of figure 1, sleeve dome 950 comprises a dome 952, a sleeve portion 953, a wall 958 for blocking sound and two channels 954, 956 for passing sound from the sound openings 14, 16, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the channels 954 and 956 have the same size and are arranged at the same distance to the longitudinal axis L of the sleeve dome 950. In the first orientation 900a, the sound blocking wall 958 of sleeve dome 950 is arranged to block sound passing in the assembly from the receiver outlet 8 to the microphone inlet 10. Particularly, the wall 958 is arranged in channel 20 of the housing 2, which is the channel in which the microphone outlet 10 is positioned. In the first orientation 900a of sleeve dome 950, the wall 958 is thus positioned between the receiver outlet 8 and the microphone inlet 10. While one end of channel 20 is blocked by wall 958, the other end of channel 20 remains open, for allowing sound passage from the eardrum towards the microphone inlet 10. The sound channel 18 also remains open for allowing sound passage from the receiver outlet 8 to the eardrum.

The sleeve dome 950 is rotatable about its longitudinal axis L to change between REM configuration 900a and ANC configuration 900b. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve dome 950 is rotated 180 degrees for changing between configurations 900a and 900b. In the ANC configuration, the position of wall 958 is adjusted to open the sound path between the receiver and the microphone. Specifically, the channel 20 is opened, creating a shared channel for the receiver 4 and the microphone 6, the shared channel being open towards the eardrum. In the ANC configuration 900b, the wall 958 is positioned in channel 18 and blocks sound passing from the receiver to the eardrum without passing the microphone 6. In the ANC configuration, the channels 954, 956 of the sleeve dome 950 have exchanged position, and now channel 954 is aligned with sound opening 16 for passing sound between the sound opening 16 and the eardrum.

Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a RIC assembly according to a fifth embodiment. The RIC assembly is adjustable between a REM configuration 1000a and a MIC-out configuration 1000b. The RIC assembly comprises a housing 2, in which a receiver 4 and microphone 6 are provided. Similar to the previous embodiments, the receiver 4 has a receiver outlet 8 and the microphone 6 has a microphone inlet 10. The housing of figure 10 differs from the housing of the previous embodiments in that channel 18 (for sound passage between the receiver 4 and the eardrum) and channel 20 (for sound passage between the microphone 6 and the eardrum) are not connected. Instead, the channels 18, 20 of the housing are provided as entirely separated channels. The RIC assembly further comprises a sleeve dome 1050 that is connectable to the housing 2 in two different orientations. Similar to sleeve dome 950 of figure 9, sleeve dome 1050 comprises a dome 1052 and a sleeve portion 1053. In contrast to sleeve dome 950, sleeve dome 1050 does not comprise a wall for blocking sound. Instead, sleeve dome 150 comprises three channels 1054, 1056 and 1060 for passage of sound from the housing to the eardrum. The position of channels 1054 and 1060 is adjustable by rotation about the longitudinal axis L. The position of channel 1056 is unaffected by rotation as channel 1056 is centered around longitudinal axis L, such that it remains aligned with channel 18 of the housing, for passing sound between sound opening 14 and the eardrum (thus creating a sound path between the receiver outlet 8 and the eardrum). In REM configuration 1000a, the channel 1056 - that is open towards the eardrum - is aligned with channel 20 of the housing, to form a sound path between the microphone 6 and the eardrum. Meanwhile, channel 1060 - that is open towards a side of sleeve portion 1053, is not aligned with either of the channels 18, 20 of the housing 2 and thus does not provide a sound path. In the illustrated embodiment, channel 1060 abuts the front wall of housing 2 in configuration 1000a. In the MIC-out configuration 1000b, channel 1060 is aligned with channel 20 of the housing, to form a sound path between the microphone 6 and the environment (i.e. outside of the ear) via the side opening in the sleeve portion 1053. Meanwhile, the channel 1056 is not aligned with either of the channels 18, 20 of the housing 2 and thus does not provide a sound path. In the illustrated embodiment, channel abuts the front wall of housing 2 in configuration 1000b.

The sleeve dome 1050 is rotatable about its longitudinal axis L to change between REM configuration 1000a and MIC-out configuration 1000b. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve dome 1050 is rotated 180 degrees for changing between configurations 1000a and 1000b.

Figures lla-llb show a perspective view of a cross-section of a RIC assembly according to a sixth embodiment. Figures 11c and lid illustrate sound paths in the two different configurations of the sixth embodiment. Referring to figures lla-llb, the RIC assembly comprises a housing 2 and a snap dome 1150. Housing 2 has an inner space in which a receiver 4 and a microphone 6 are positioned. The housing 2 has a front end F and a back end B. In use, the front end of the housing 2 is inserted into the ear canal first. Thus, during use the front end F of the housing 2 faces the eardrum, while the back end B of the housing is facing toward the outside.

The receiver 4 emits sound through an outlet 8. For example, the outlet 8 comprises as an opening or spout. The microphone 6 has an inlet 10 for receiving sound. In the front end F of the housing 2, two sound openings 14, 16 are provided. The housing comprises a channel 18 that extends from the receiver outlet 8 to the front end F of the housing 2, to the sound opening 14, respectively. In this embodiment, the inlet 10 of the microphone faces towards the back end of the housing 2. The housing 2 comprises a channel 20 that extends from the inlet 10 of the microphone 6 to sound opening 16. The two channels 18, 20 are connected to each other via a chamber 12. The inlet 10 of the microphone 6 is positioned in chamber 12.

Snap dome 1150 comprises a dome 1152 connected to a tubular body 1153. The body 1153 is configured for a snap connection with housing 2. Within the tubular body 1153, a wall 1158 for blocking sound is arranged. In REM configuration 1100a, the wall 1158 blocks the connection between channel 14 and chamber 12, while channel 16 remains open. In this configuration 1100a, the wall 1158 separates receiver-to-ear channel 14 from microphone-to- ear channel 16. In figure 11c, arrow SI illustrates a sound path between the receiver outlet 8 and the eardrum, and arrow S2 illustrates a sound path between the eardrum and the microphone inlet 10.

The snap dome 1150 is rotatable by 180 degrees to configure the RIC assembly into ANC configuration 1100b. In this configuration 1100b, the wall blocks sound passage through channel 16, while the connection between channel 14 and chamber 12 is opened. Thus, the wall 1158 closes microphone-to-ear channel 16 while opening a shared channel. In figure lid, arrow S3 illustrates a sound path between the receiver outlet 8 and the eardrum, and arrow S4 illustrates a sound path between the eardrum and the microphone inlet 10.

In an alternative embodiment (not illustrated), a rotatable configuration part (such as sleeve dome 950, sleeve dome 1050 or snap dome 1150) has three different orientations for adjusting between three different configurations of the RIC assembly.

In the context of the invention, the feature that a configuration part is "rotatable" includes both rotation of the configuration part (e.g. dome 950) while the part is connected to the housing as rotation of the configuration part (e.g. dome 950) by disconnecting the part from the housing, rotating, and re-connecting the part to the housing.

Figures 12a-12b shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a RIC assembly according to a seventh embodiment. The assembly has a housing 2 with an inner space in which a receiver 4 and a microphone 6 are arranged. Receiver 4 has outlet 8 and microphone 6 has inlet 10. The receiver outlet 8 and microphone inlet 10 both face towards the eardrum. The inner space of the housing comprises a chamber 12. The receiver 4 is configured to emit sound into the chamber 12. The microphone 6 is configured to capture sound from the chamber 12. In a front end F of the housing, sound opening 14 is provided for passing sound from the inner space of the housing 2 to the eardrum.

Sleeve dome 1250 comprises dome 1252 and sleeve portion 1253. Sleeve dome 1250 further includes a wall 1258 for blocking sound.

The outer surface of housing 2 is provided with protrusions 24 and 26, and the inner surface of sleeve portion 1253 comprises recesses for engaging the protrusions 24, 26. Particularly, one or more outermost recesses of the sleeve portion 1253 can engage protrusion 24 of the housing 2 to lock the sleeve dome 1250 in a first position relative to the housing 2, which corresponds to REM configuration 1200a of the assembly. When the sleeve dome 1250 is retracted, the one or more outermost recesses of the sleeve portion 1253 can engage the other protrusion 26 to lock the sleeve dome 1250 in a second position relative to the housing 2, which corresponds to ANC configuration 1200b of the assembly. In other words, sleeve dome 1250 is lockable in two different positions along the length direction of the housing 2. In Fig. 12a, the recesses are not visible as the protrusions 24, 26 are positioned in the recesses. In Fig. 12b, the innermost recesses 1266 are visible as protrusions 26 are no longer positioned in recesses 1266, but in outermost recesses (not visible).

In REM configuration 1200a, the sound blocking wall 1258 forms a barrier between the microphone 6 and the receiver 4, thus creating a split-channel configuration with two separate sound paths: a sound path between the receiver 4 and the eardrum and a separated sound path between the microphone 6 and the eardrum. After pulling back the sleeve dome 1250 from the housing 2 to the second position, i.e. configuring the RIC assembly into ANC configuration 1200b, a shared channel configuration is obtained, as the wall 1258 no longer blocks a sound passage between the microphone 6 and the receiver 4.

Embodiments

1. A receiver-in-canal assembly, comprising : a housing comprising an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged, the housing comprising a front end and a back end, wherein the front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum, at least two exchangeable channel configuration parts that are detachably connectable to the housing, at least one of the channel configuration parts comprising a wall for blocking sound and/or a channel for passing sound from the sound opening, wherein the channel configuration parts are exchangeable for adjusting a position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver, for blocking or opening a sound path between the receiver and the microphone and/or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum and/or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.

2. A receiver-in-canal assembly, comprising : a housing comprising an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged, the housing comprising a front end and a back end, wherein the front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum, an insert comprising a wall for blocking sound, wherein insert is movable into and out of the housing for adjusting the position of the wall relative to the microphone and receiver, for blocking or opening a sound path between the receiver and the microphone and/or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum and/or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.

3. A receiver-in-canal assembly, comprising : a housing comprising an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged, the housing comprising a front end and a back end, wherein the front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum, a channel configuration part that is connectable to the housing, the channel configuration part comprising a wall for blocking sound and/or a channel for passing sound from the sound opening, wherein the channel configuration part is connectable to the housing in different positions relative to the housing for adjusting a position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver, for blocking or opening a sound path between the receiver and the microphone and/or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum and/or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.

4. The receiver-in-canal assembly of embodiment 3, wherein one of the housing and the single part comprises a first coupling member and a second coupling member, and the other of the housing and the single part comprises a third coupling member configured to engage the first coupling member when the single part is in a first position relative to the housing for locking in said first position, and to engage the second coupling member when the single part is in a second position relative to the housing for locking in said second position.

5. The receiver-in-canal assembly of embodiment 4, wherein the single part comprises a sleeve for sliding over the housing, and in the first position the sleeve extends further over the housing than in the second position.

6. The receiver-in-canal assembly of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the receiver-in-canal assembly is adjustable between at least two of the following configurations: a first split-channel configuration wherein the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured to provide two separate channels: o a mic-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the microphone and the eardrum, and o a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum; a shared-channel configuration wherein the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured to provide a shared channel for passage of sound between the receiver, the microphone and eardrum; a second split-channel configuration wherein the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured to provide two separate channels: o a mic-to-out channel for passage of sound between the microphone and an outside of the ear, and o a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum; and a blocking configuration wherein passage of sound to and from the microphone is blocked.

7. The receiver-in-canal assembly of the combination of embodiments 1 and 6, comprising at least two of the following exchangeable channel configuration parts: a first split-channel part for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the first splitchannel configuration, the first split-channel part comprising a first wall for blocking sound configured to separate the mic-to-ear channel and the receiver-to-ear channel when the first split-channel part is connected to the housing; a shared-channel part for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the second configuration when the shared-channel part is connected to the housing; and a second split-channel part for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the second splitchannel configuration, the second split channel part comprising a second wall for blocking sound configured to separate the mic-to-out channel and the receiver-to-ear channel when the second split-channel part is connected to the housing.

8. The receiver-in-canal assembly of any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the channel configuration part comprises a dome, preferably a sleeve dome or a two- component snap dome.

9. The receiver-in-canal assembly of any one or more of the preceding embodiments, wherein the channel configuration part comprises a wax filter.

10. The receiver-in-canal assembly of any one or more of the embodiments 1-9, wherein the microphone is positioned closer to the front end of the housing than the receiver, wherein the housing comprises two channels that extend from the receiver to the front end of the housing, and the two channels of the housing are connected at the receiver to form a chamber, wherein the receiver is configured to emit sound into the chamber, and the microphone is arranged in one of the two channels of the housing.

11. The receiver-in-canal assembly of embodiment 10, wherein the configuration part is adjustable for positioning the wall at or away from a position between the chamber and the channel in which the microphone is arranged to open or block passage of sound from the chamber to the channel in which the microphone is arranged.

12. A hearing aid system comprising the receiver-in-canal assembly of any of the preceding embodiments.

13. The hearing aid system of embodiment 12, further comprising a controller to control the receiver and to process microphone signals generated by the microphone, wherein the controller is switchable between at least two of the following settings: a real ear measurement, REM, setting, wherein the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform real ear measurement; an active noise cancelling, ANC, setting wherein the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform active noise cancelling; an active occlusion reduction, AOR, setting, wherein the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform active occlusion processing; and a microphone out, mic-out, setting, wherein the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform microphone out processing.

14. The hearing aid system of embodiment 13, wherein the receiver-in-canal assembly is adjustable between at least two different configurations, and the controller is further configured to detect, using the microphone signal, in which of the at least two configuration the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured.

15. Method for adjusting a receiver-in-canal assembly, comprising : providing a receiver-in canal assembly comprising a housing and at least two exchangeable channel configuration parts that are detachably connectable to the housing, wherein the housing comprises an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged, the housing comprising a front end and a back end, wherein the front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum, wherein at least one of the channel configuration parts comprises a wall for blocking sound and/or a channel for passing sound from the sound opening, wherein one of the at least two exchangeable channel configuration parts is connected to the housing; and exchanging said one of the at least two exchangeable channel configuration parts for a different one of the at least two exchangeable channel configuration parts for blocking or opening a sound path between the receiver and the microphone and/or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum and/or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.

16. Method for adjusting a receiver-in-canal assembly, comprising : providing a receiver-in canal assembly comprising a housing and an insert, wherein the housing comprises an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged, the housing comprising a front end and a back end, wherein the front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum, wherein the insert comprises a wall for blocking sound and the insert is movable into and out of the housing; and moving the insert into or out of the housing to adjust a position of the wall relative to the microphone and receiver, for blocking or opening a sound path between the receiver and the microphone and/or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum and/or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.

17. Method for adjusting a receiver-in-canal assembly, comprising : providing a receiver-in canal assembly comprising a housing and a channel configuration part connected to the housing, wherein the housing comprises an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged, the housing comprising a front end and a back end, wherein the front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum, wherein the channel configuration part comprises a wall for blocking sound and/or a channel for passing sound from the sound opening; and adjusting a position of the channel configuration part relative to the housing (e.g. by translation or rotation relative to the housing) to adjust a position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver, for blocking or opening a sound path between the receiver and the microphone and/or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum and/or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.

Claims

1. A receiver-in-canal assembly, comprising : a housing comprising an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged, the housing comprising a front end and a back end, wherein the front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum, a channel configuration part that is connectable to the housing, the channel configuration part comprising a wall for blocking sound and/or a channel for passing sound from the sound opening, wherein the channel configuration part is adjustable for adjusting a position of the respective wall and/or channel relative to the microphone and receiver to adjust the receiver- in-canal assembly between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein a sound path is blocked in the first configuration and open in the second configuration, the sound path comprising : a sound path between the receiver and the microphone; or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum; or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.

2. The receiver-in-canal assembly of claim 1, wherein the channel configuration part is detachably connectable to the housing, and the assembly comprises at least one additional channel configuration part that is detachably connectable to the housing for exchanging the configuration parts to adjust the position of the respective wall and/or channel relative to the microphone and receiver.

3. The receiver-in-canal assembly of claim 1, wherein the channel configuration part comprises an insert and the housing is configured for receiving the insert, wherein the insert comprises the wall for blocking sound, and the insert is movable into and out of the housing for adjusting the position of the wall relative to the microphone and receiver.

4. The receiver-in-canal assembly of claim 1, wherein the channel configuration part comprises a single part that is connectable to the housing in different positions relative to the housing for adjusting a position of the respective wall and/or channel relative to the microphone and receiver.

5. The receiver-in-canal assembly of claim 4, wherein one of the housing and the single part comprises a first coupling member and a second coupling member, and the other of the housing and the single part comprises a third coupling member configured to engage the first coupling member when the single part is in a first position relative to the housing for locking in said first position, and to engage the second coupling member when the single part is in a second position relative to the housing for locking in said second position.

6. The receiver-in-canal assembly of claim 5, wherein the single part comprises a sleeve for sliding over the housing, and in the first position the sleeve extends further over the housing than in the second position.

7. The receiver-in-canal assembly of any of claims 1-6, wherein the channel configuration part is adjustable to adjust the receiver-in-canal assembly between at least two of the following configurations: a first split-channel configuration wherein the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured to provide two separate channels: o a mic-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the microphone and the eardrum, and o a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum; a shared-channel configuration wherein the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured to provide a shared channel for passage of sound between the receiver, the microphone and eardrum; a second split-channel configuration wherein the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured to provide two separate channels: o a mic-to-out channel for passage of sound between the microphone and an outside of the ear, and o a receiver-to-ear channel for passage of sound between the receiver and the eardrum; and a blocking configuration wherein passage of sound to and from the microphone is blocked.

8. The receiver-in-canal assembly of the combination of claims 2 and 7, comprising at least two of the following exchangeable channel configuration parts: a first split-channel part for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the first splitchannel configuration, the first split-channel part comprising a first wall for blocking sound configured to separate the mic-to-ear channel and the receiver-to-ear channel when the first split-channel part is connected to the housing; a shared-channel part for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the second configuration when the shared-channel part is connected to the housing; and a second split-channel part for configuring the receiver-in-canal assembly in the second splitchannel configuration, the second split channel part comprising a second wall for blocking sound configured to separate the mic-to-out channel and the receiver-to-ear channel when the second split-channel part is connected to the housing.

9. The receiver-in-canal assembly of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the channel configuration part comprises a dome, preferably a sleeve dome or a two-component snap dome.

10. The receiver-in-canal assembly of any one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the channel configuration part comprises a wax filter.

11. The receiver-in-canal assembly of any one or more of the claims 1-10, wherein the microphone is positioned closer to the front end of the housing than the receiver, wherein the housing comprises two channels that extend from the receiver to the front end of the housing, and the two channels of the housing are connected at the receiver to form a chamber, wherein the receiver is configured to emit sound into the chamber, and the microphone is arranged in one of the two channels of the housing, wherein the channel configuration part is adjustable for positioning the wall at or away from a position between the chamber and the channel in which the microphone is arranged to open or block passage of sound from the chamber to the channel in which the microphone is arranged.

12. A hearing aid system comprising the receiver-in-canal assembly of any of the preceding claims.

13. The hearing aid system of claim 12, further comprising a controller to control the receiver and to process microphone signals generated by the microphone, wherein the controller is switchable between at least two of the following settings: a real ear measurement, REM, setting, wherein the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform real ear measurement; an active noise cancelling, ANC, setting wherein the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform active noise cancelling; an active occlusion reduction, AOR, setting, wherein the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform active occlusion processing; and a microphone out, mic-out, setting, wherein the controller is configured to control the receiver and process the microphone signals to perform microphone out processing.

14. The hearing aid system of claim 13, wherein the channel configuration part is adjustable to adjust the receiver-in-canal assembly between at least two different configurations, and the controller is further configured to detect, using the microphone signal, in which of the at least two configurations the receiver-in-canal assembly is configured.

15. Method for adjusting a receiver-in-canal assembly, comprising : providing a receiver-in-canal assembly comprising a housing and a channel configuration part connected to the housing, wherein the housing comprises an inner space in which a receiver for emitting sound and a microphone are arranged, the housing comprising a front end and a back end, wherein the front end comprises a sound opening for passing sound between the inner space of the housing and the eardrum, wherein the channel configuration part comprises a wall for blocking sound and/or a channel for passing sound from the sound opening; and adjusting the channel configuration part to adjust a position of the respective wall and/or the channel relative to the microphone and receiver, to adjust the receiver-in-canal assembly between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein a sound path is blocked in the first configuration and open in the second configuration, the sound path comprising : a sound path between the receiver and the microphone; or a sound path between the receiver and the eardrum; or a sound path between the microphone and the eardrum.