TITLE:
A model for predicting localization performance in cochlear implant users
AUTHORS:
Douglas A. Miller, Mohammad A. Matin
KEYWORDS:
Head Related Transfer Function; HRTF; Localization; Cochlear Implant
JOURNAL NAME:
World Journal of Neuroscience,
Vol.3 No.3,
July
19,
2013
ABSTRACT:
Mathematical
models can be very useful for understanding complicated systems, and for
testing algorithms through simulation that would be difficult or expensive to implement. This paper describes the proposal for a model that would simulate the sound localization performance of profoundly hearing-impaired persons
using bilateral cochlear implants (CIs). The expectation is that this model
could be used as a tool that could prove
useful in developing new signal processing algorithms for neural
encoding strategies. The head related transfer function (HRTF) is a critical component of this model, and provides the base characteristics of head shadow, torso and pinna effects. This defines the
temporal, intensity and spectral cues that are important to sound localization.
This model was first developed to simulate normal hearing persons and validated
against published literature on HRTFs and localization. The model was then
further developed to account for the differences in the signal pathway of the
CI user due to sound processing effects, and the microphone location versus ear
canal acoustics. Finally, the localization error calculated from the model for
CI users was compared to published localization data obtained from this
population.