Method for creating a coupling between a device and an ear structure in an implantable hearing assistance device
US6875166B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 24, 2003 |
| Grant date | Apr 5, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 24, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R25/606
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method for creating a coupling between an implantable device, such as a transducer, and a structure of the ear, such as an ossicle, in an implantable hearing assistance device. The coupling permits slip between the device and the structure and provides a neutral load. The device is positioned such that it either lightly touches or is positioned away from the structure. In one embodiment, the surface of the device or the structure is cleaned while the remaining surface, that is, the surface not cleaned, is coated with a solution. An adhesive material is applied between the device and the structure. The solution prevents a bond from forming at that interface while a bond forms at the remaining surface. Alternatively, a compliant adhesive may be used. In another embodiment, the surface of the device is coated with a gel, the gel optionally being covered with a metallic foil.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.