Insertion device for deep-in-the-canal hearing devices
US8155361B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 15, 2008 |
| Grant date | Apr 10, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 10, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R2460/17
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The invention provides a device and method for inserting a deep-in-the-ear-canal (DIC) hearing aid into the ear canal. The method may be performed by a DIC hearing aid user self-inserting the hearing aid or by a second person assisting the user. Embodiments of a DIC hearing aid insertion device include a base configured to fit into the conchal cavity of an ear, a chimney configured to fit into the ear canal projecting distally from the base and having a channel sized for a DIC hearing aid, and a piston. The piston is supported by a support structure such that the piston's longitudinal axis is collinear with the channel and the piston is moveable into the channel. A method of using the insertion device includes seating the DIC hearing aid in the insertion device, positioning the base of the insertion conformably within the conchal bowl of the ear, and inserting the hearing aid deep into the ear canal. Other embodiments of the invention are directed to in situ activation and programming of the DIC hearing aid, as well as its removal from the ear canal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.