IEC 60318 Electroacoustics: Simulators of Human Head and Ear

    IEC 60318 Introduction

    The correct measurement of audio apparatus necessitates the imitation of the acoustic phenomenon of the human head and ear. The variations in ear canal shape, ear coupling, and acoustic effects of the head can cause a lot of changes in sound measurements. Artificial ear and head simulators recreate these human features and give a standardized test environment to determine frequency response, sensitivity, and distortion of audio equipment. The dimensions, acoustic impedance, and calibration procedures of the simulators are also specified by IEC 60318, which guarantees consistency of measurements. 

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    Get Certified IEC 60318 for Reliable Audio Measurements

    The certification to IEC 60318 assures that the standardized head and ear simulators are used within laboratories and manufacturers to allow standard assessment of headphones, hearing aids, and earphones. Conformance to IEC 60318 enhances verification of the performance of products, regulatory compliance, and that of test results across various facilities.

    Scope of IEC 60318

    • Offers artificial head and ear simulators for the electroacoustic test of the standard.
    • Relevant to earphones, hearing aids, personal audio devices, and headphones.
    • Ensure consistent, similar, and precise audio measurements. 
    • They are used in product development, certification, and quality control.

    IEC 60318 Equipment and Sample Preparation

    Simulator SpecificationUse IEC 60318-defined artificial heads and ears with specified acoustic impedance and physical dimensions
    Device MountingEnsure proper coupling of the audio device to the simulator to replicate human ear conditions
    CalibrationVerify the microphone simulator and measurement chain against reference standards

    Applications for IEC 60318

    • Headphone and earphone frequency response measurement. 
    • Test of hearing aid performance and sensitivity. 
    • Testing of audio equipment certification and compliance. 
    • Consumer and professional audio device product development and quality control. Auditory science and human hearing simulation.

    IEC 60318 Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

    Among the difficulties, there are wrong placement of the device, misalignment of the microphones, or lack of simulator calibration. Test environment acoustics can also vary and can have an influence. The solution to these problems has been given by laboratories through the adherence to procedures of setting up the simulator, calibration, and controlled test environments.

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    IEC 60318 Technique, Process, and Data Collection

    The artificial ear or head has audio devices attached to it, and normal test signals are used. The acoustic output of the simulator is captured at the simulator microphones, which are then analyzed to indicate frequency response, sensitivity, and distortion. These measurements are repeated when needed to check consistency. Measures of data are audio output levels, frequency-dependent measures, and calibration.

    IEC 60318 Testing Procedure and Requirements

    Simulator SetupInstall an artificial head simulator or an ear simulator in the test setup as per standard positioning.
    Device MountingInstalling the headphones, earphones, or hearing aids on the simulator according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
    Signal ApplicationApply standard test signals (sine sweep, pink noise, or other audio signals)
    MeasurementRecord acoustic output using the simulator microphones and measurement system
    CalibrationEnsure the simulator and measurement system are calibrated to reference levels

    IEC 60318 Analysis Results and Interpretation

    The results give precise, repeatable measurements of the performance of headphones or hearing aids under standard conditions. Unexpected responses are an indicator of design problems, variability in the manufacturing process, or malfunctions in the devices. These results are utilized as a product improvement tool, a compliance tool, or in auditory research by engineers and audiologists.

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    IEC 60318 Problem & Solution

    Problem: There may be variability in the performance of audio devices because they will vary in the way human ears couple.

    Solution: IEC 60318 standardizes artificial head and ear simulators, which ensures that device tests can be compared and repeated.

    FAQ

    Where can I get the iec 60318 tested?
    You can share your iec 60318 testing requirements with MaTestLab. MaTestLab has a vast network of material testing laboratories, spread across the USA and Canada. We support your all material testing needs ranging from specific iec 60318 test to various testing techniques.
    Please contact us for a detailed quote for your iec 60318 testing needs. Cost incurred to carry out different iec 60318 testing methodology depends on the type of raw material; number of samples, coupons, or specimens; test conditions, turn around time etc. Costs of some ASTM testing methods start from $100 and the final value depends upon the factors listed above. Please contact us for the best and latest prices.
    The required number of samples or specimens should comply with the procedure given in the iec 60318 standard. However, the MaTestLab operations team can assist you for your special requirements once you share your testing details with us.
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    The turnaround time for iec 60318 test methodology depends upon the test procedure mentioned in the standard test document. However, we at MaTestLab understand your research requirements and hence try to get your test completed within the least possible time.
    Davis Scott
    About Author
    Davis Scott
    Davis Scott is an Electrical and Electronics Engineer specializing in multidisciplinary validation, quality assurance, and comprehensive electro-mechanical testing.
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