Tool for insertion and removal of in-canal hearing devices
US8184842B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 20, 2009 |
| Grant date | May 22, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 7, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49771
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Methods, tools, and methods of manufacturing said tools are provided for inserting a hearing device deeply into the ear canal of a user and adjusting its medial-lateral position therein. The provided tools comprise a shaft. A distal end of the shaft can be coupled to the hearing device. The shaft is flexible to facilitate its insertion into the tortuous ear canal and minimize injurious contact with the ear canal. The length of the shaft can be adjusted to adjust the depth of insertion of the shaft into the ear canal, customizing the tool for an individual user. Medial advancement of the shaft into the ear canal is limited by a base, side extension, or mold coupled to a proximal portion of the shaft or other proximal part of the tool.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.