2025 | Student

MUSE Design Awards Gold Winner

Hearya-Social Hearing Aid for Complex Environments

Entrant Company

Central South University of Forestry and Technology

Category

Product Design - Assistive Devices

Client's Name

Zhang Jijuan

Country / Region

China

Hearya, derived from the colloquial expression “hear ya”, is a hearing aid designed to listen and understand—bridging communication between individuals. Traditional hearing devices often fall short in noisy, voice-dense environments due to limitations in pickup mechanisms and noise reduction technologies, leading to social isolation and reduced participation for people with hearing loss.
Unlike the mechanical look of conventional hearing aids, Hearya embraces a more fashionable approach, available in six color options to meet diverse aesthetic preferences. The product consists of a main unit and a detachable magnetic pickup module named Heardot. Its streamlined silhouette wraps naturally behind the ear, with the ear hook extending toward the ear canal to form a secure loop. The body features smooth, rounded contours and a wave-textured surface for improved grip, stability, and comfort, creating a unified, organic form.
The main unit is made from ABS plastic with a metallic coating, while lychee-textured leather paired with matte metal accents gives it the refined appearance of a wearable accessory that blends seamlessly into daily life. The Heardot attaches magnetically to the main unit at two contact points and can be easily removed when needed. During conversations, it is worn close to the target sound source, enabling real-time directional pickup and speech focus. This effectively addresses the issue of fragmented communication and helps restore a clear, natural dialogue experience.
When Heardot is more than 15 meters away from the main unit, the device vibrates to alert the user and prevent accidental loss.
Hearya is not just about hearing—it’s about understanding.

Credits

Central South University of Forestry and Technology
Qin Chun
Central South University of Forestry and Technology
Hu Lincai
Central South University of Forestry and Technology
Zhang Jijuan
Central South University of Forestry and Technology
Wang Wenzhao
Central South University of Forestry and Technology
Du Min
Central South University of Forestry and Technology
Yang Yixiao
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