Ear apparatus and methods of use
US12357501B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 24, 2023 |
| Grant date | Jul 15, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 24, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61F2007/0094
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Selectively controllable apparatus for insertion into an ear canal, and related methods of use and operation for behavioral control. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a body configured for insertion into an ear canal. In one variant, the body includes one or more thermal mechanisms which enable selective increase or decrease of temperature of at least portions of the ear canal so as to implement behavioral control of the user, such as to mitigate cravings for food, alcohol, narcotics, or other potentially deleterious substances. In one variant, a mild nausea or pre-nausea condition is created within the user according to a time-temperature profile so as to induce the aforementioned behavioral modification.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.