Connector for implantable hearing aid
US6517476B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 30, 2000 |
| Grant date | Feb 11, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 24, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R2225/67
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The present invention is directed to implantable hearing aid systems and provides for selective interconnection between two or more implantable components of a system. The inventive apparatus comprises a first connector interconnected to a first implantable component and a second connector interconnected to a second implantable component which is separate from the first implanted component. The first and second connectors may each comprise outer housings and internal conductors, wherein the outer housings are configured to define male and female connectors for mating interconnection therebetween. In one arrangement, a female connector is defined by a support structure that also supports an interconnected implantable component (e.g., a processor unit and/or induction coil), and wherein the male connector is interconnected to another, separate component (e.g., a middle ear actuator). The support structure may be integrally defined by a molded material (e.g., a silicon-based material). One or more locking member(s) may be provided for selective insertion into the outer housing of the female connector to securably engage the male connector (e.g., the central conductor thereof). The inv…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.