Sound spectral processing based on fast Fourier transform applied to cochlear implant for the conception of a graphical spectrogram and for the generation of stimulating pulses

This paper presents a sound spectral processing based on a fast Fourier transform (FFT), which is applied to cochlear prostheses, for conceiving graphical spectrogram and for generating stimulating pulses. The Sound Graphical-spectrogram is a simulation of electrical stimulating-pulses, recommended for cochlear prostheses, especially for performing experiments and clinical set-up during stimulation test and re-education. This spectral sound processing was implemented on a computer board for simulation, and on a 'DSP' board (digital signal processor) of GRAMS' cochlear prosthesis for stimulating current generation. The algorithm includes different desired specifications, which are designed to be adjustable. Our purpose is to satisfy auditory pathological constraints of cochlear implant recipients having unique and diverse needs. The stimulation algorithm conceived allows electrical stimulating pulse generation in real time with use flexibility thanks to DSP performance. Algorithm functionality was tested for different sounds (harmonics and composite sounds) and could be adapted to different cochlear prostheses for deafness rehabilitation.