Estimating bone conduction transfer functions using otoacoustic emissions

A technique for estimating the nonparametric bone conduction transfer function using distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) is presented. Individual transfer functions were obtained using DPOAEs recorded from a single ear of five normal-hearing adults. Repeatability of the technique was investigated by performing measurements on at least three dates. Functions were reasonably repeatable, and were unique to each individual as expected from subjective measurements. Input force and DPOAE measurements were made for each individual, and a model of the auditory periphery representative of an average person was employed. The technique is objective and requires only passive cooperation, but robust DPOAEs are needed and the measurement time can be onerous for a wide frequency band or fine frequency resolution. With appropriate adjustments to the model of the auditory periphery, the method could be applied with animal models.