Sealing retainer for extended wear hearing devices
US7580537B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 13, 2006 |
| Grant date | Aug 25, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 19, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R2225/023
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention provide seals for retaining hearing devices in the ear canal. An embodiment provides a seal for a hearing device comprising a curved shell having a wall and an opening at a shell apex portion. The shell defines a cavity for retention of a device component. The shell wall has a shape configured to distribute compressive forces applied to the shell perimeter such that when the shell is positioned in the canal, the shell wall dynamically conforms to changes in the shape of the canal to maintain an acoustical seal between a shell exterior surface and the canal walls. The shell can include an anti-microbial coating to produce a reduction in bacteria contacting the coating. Also, the shell wall can have a water vapor transmission rate to reduce moisture accumulation in the canal during periods of extended wear to reduce the incidence of infection and otitis.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.