Eardrum implantable devices for hearing systems and methods
US8401214B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 18, 2010 |
| Grant date | Mar 19, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 30, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R2460/13
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An implantable device is configured for placement in the eardrum to transmit an audio signal to a user. The device may be configured to improve transmission of an electromagnetic signal including light energy from an input assembly on a lateral side of eardrum to an output assembly positioned on a medial side of the eardrum, for example at least partially in the middle ear of the user. The output assembly may include a transducer or at least two electrodes configured to stimulate the cochlea, for example. The device may include an opening to transmit the light signal or an optic to transmit the light signal. Alternatively the device may be configured to support a transducer of the output assembly with the eardrum when the device is implanted in the eardrum, such that the eardrum vibrates in response to the signal electromagnetic signal. The electromagnetic signal may include light energy for a magnetic field.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.