Wearable device cover with communication coil

Abstract

An apparatus includes a removable cover for an ear-wearable device, where the removable cover includes a communication coil. The cover can position the communication coil proximate to an implanted coil for communication. In embodiments, the cover is a cover for a behind-the-ear sound processor having a coil that communicates with an implanted coil of a cochlear implant.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] Medical devices have provided a wide range of therapeutic benefits to recipients in recent decades. Medical devices can include internal or implantable components / devices, external or wearable components / devices, or combinations thereof (e.g., devices with an external component that communicates with the implantable component). Medical devices, such as conventional hearing aids, partially or fully implantable hearing prostheses (e.g., bone conduction devices, mechanical stimulators, cochlear implants, etc.), pacemakers, defibrillators, functional electrical stimulation devices, and other medical devices, have been successful for many years in performing life-saving and / or lifestyle improvement functions and / or recipient monitoring.

[0002] Over the years, the types of medical devices and the range of functions they perform have increased. For example, many medical devices, sometimes referred to as “implantable medical devices,” now typically include one or more instruments, devices, sensors, processors, controllers, or other functional mechanical or electrical components that are permanently or temporarily implanted into a recipient’s body. These functional devices are typically used to diagnose, prevent, monitor, treat, or manage diseases / injuries or their symptoms, or to study, replace, or modify anatomical structures or physiological processes. Many of these functional devices utilize power and / or data received from an external device that is part of or operates in conjunction with the implantable component. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one example, there is an apparatus comprising: a removable cover for an ear-worn wearable device, wherein the removable cover includes a communication coil. In another example, there is a method comprising selecting a cover having a communication coil and attaching the cover to a wearable device. In yet another example, there is a system comprising: a wearable device; and a cover removably attached to the wearable device, the cover having a communication coil for electrical communication with the wearable device. Attached Figure Description

[0004] In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements or elements of the same type.

[0005] Figure 1A , 1B 1C illustrates an exemplary device including a wearable device and a removable cover for the wearable device.

[0006] Figure 1A The cover is shown attached to a wearable device.

[0007] Figure 1B A combined cap and wearable device are shown, in which the implantable coil of the implantable medical device is placed on the recipient's ear.

[0008] Figure 1CA combined cover and wearable device are shown, which are worn on the ear of a recipient, wherein the communication coil of the cover is positioned in proximity to the implanted coil based on the location of the communication coil in the cover.

[0009] Figure 2A , 2B Figures 2C and 2C illustrate an embodiment of a cover attached to the front of a wearable device.

[0010] Figure 2A A perspective view of a cover attached to the front of a wearable device is shown.

[0011] Figure 2B It shows Figure 2A Front view of the cover.

[0012] Figure 2C It shows Figure 2A Rear view of the cover.

[0013] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2A-2C A perspective view of the cap relative to an implantable device with coils.

[0014] Figure 4 A perspective view of a cover having a communication coil disposed adjacent to the upper portion of the cover is shown.

[0015] Figure 5 A cover with a coil is shown, the coil having a coil shape substantially similar to the cover's outline shape.

[0016] Figure 6A , 6B Figures 6 and 6C illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a cover having a coil disposed on a flexible printed circuit board.

[0017] Figure 6A A perspective view of the lid is shown.

[0018] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A Top view of the cover.

[0019] Figure 6C It shows along Figure 6B The sectional view of the cover is taken by line CC.

[0020] Figure 7A , 7B Figures 7C and 7C illustrate an exemplary embodiment having a cover with wires connecting a communication coil to one or more electrical contacts.

[0021] Figure 7A A perspective view of the lid is shown.

[0022] Figure 7B It shows Figure 7A Top view of the cover.

[0023] Figure 7C It shows along Figure 7B The line CC cut Figure 7B A cross-sectional view of the lid.

[0024] Figure 8 A wearable device with a recessed portion configured to receive a cover is shown.

[0025] Figure 9 An exemplary device with multiple coils is shown.

[0026] Figure 10A and Figure 10B One method is shown.

[0027] Figure 11 A functional block diagram of an implantable stimulator system that can benefit from the technology described herein is shown.

[0028] Figure 12 A cochlear implant system that can benefit from using the techniques disclosed herein is shown.

[0029] Figure 13 A retinal prosthesis system is shown, which includes an external device, a retinal prosthesis, and a mobile computing device. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The disclosed techniques include embodiments of a wearable device cover positioned adjacent to another coil for communication. The disclosed techniques involve aligning the coils of a wearable device (e.g., a behind-the-ear sound processor) with the implanted coils of an implanted medical device (e.g., a cochlear implant). While magnets are traditionally used for aligning external and implanted coils, not all implants have retaining magnets suitable for such purposes (e.g., for MRI compatibility reasons). Furthermore, magnets in external devices can increase volume. The disclosed techniques can be used to align implanted and external coils, enabling implants and external wearable medical devices to communicate effectively and efficiently with each other via their coils without the need for magnets.

[0031] The coil of the external device can be positioned or positionable relative to the cover (e.g., in cases where the position of the coil relative to the cover is adjustable), allowing the coil to be properly aligned with the implant coil, enabling the external device and the implant to communicate with each other via their respective coils. The cover can be coupled to the external device (e.g., a behind-the-ear sound processor) in a manner that communicatively connects the coil of the cover to the wearable device. For example, pins extending from the cover can be coupled to ports on the outer surface of the wearable device. Placing contacts inside the cover and outside the wearable device simplifies the act of adding the cover to the wearable device while reducing the risk of damaging electrical connectors. Different types of covers can be designed to accommodate different possible implant locations and ear sides to improve the connection between the external coil and the implant coil and ensure proper coil alignment. For example, the external coil can be positioned in the cover to communicate with the implant coil implanted behind the recipient's auricle when the cover is coupled to the wearable device and the wearable device is worn on the recipient's ear. Therefore, the implementation can provide an alternative to conventional magnet-positioned coil implementations and can communicate with non-magnetic implantable devices.

[0032] The external coil can be positioned relative to the cover in any of a variety of ways. For example, the external coil can be permanently integrated into the material of the cover, such as via an overmolding process or by fully or partially embedding the coil into the material of the cover. In another example, the coil is configured to be repositioned to various locations on the cover. For example, the coil can be disposed on a flexible substrate (e.g., a flexible printed circuit board) and configured to be repositioned to various areas of the cover. The coil can be a copper-wound coil. The cover can take any of a variety of different appearances, such as by being opaque to visible light or at least partially transparent.

[0033] The implantable device can be implanted into the recipient and has an implantable coil integrated within a radiofrequency transparent housing. One or both of the implantable coil and the medical device can be located behind the recipient's ear canal in the mastoid bone, with the implantable coil located under the recipient's skin in an area covered by the recipient's auricle. The implantable coil position can vary for different recipients based on their anatomy and the implantation clinician's preferences. After surgery, the implantable coil position is determined, and a suitable cap is selected to match the position of the external coil relative to the implantable coil. Proper coil positioning can optimize radiofrequency efficiency and improve battery life and the integrity of communication data signals of the communication device. As an example, during the fitting session, the clinician determines the position of the implantable coil or the appropriate position of the external coil. For example, the clinician can attempt to fit multiple different caps by physically manipulating the cap or by placing a template with multiple different pre-installed coils. The clinician can measure the connection strength or distance between the coils to determine the appropriate cap for the recipient. The appropriate cap can be a prefabricated cap or a custom cap configured to meet the needs of a specific recipient.

[0034] In the example, the software is used to connect to the wearable device and test the strength of the connection with the implanted component. The adapter's screen can provide an indication of the degree of connection between the external device and the implant. An interactive system may exist where people can switch caps and see real-time feedback on the degree of device connection. The clinician can place an initial cap on the wearable device and then place the wearable device on the recipient. The clinician can then physically manipulate the device up, down, or while monitoring the connection strength to determine if a different cap would be a better fit for the recipient. If so, the cap can be switched.

[0035] Exemplary device

[0036] Figure 1A , 1B 1C illustrates an exemplary device 10 including a wearable device 100 and a removable cover 150 for the wearable device 100. Figure 1A The cover 150 is shown attached to the wearable device 100. Figure 1B The combined cover 150 and wearable device 100 are shown with the implantation coil 20 of the implantation device 30 placed on the recipient's ear. In addition, when the cover 150 is removably connected to the wearable device 100, the communication coil 152 of the cover 150 is in electrical communication with the wearable device 100. Figure 1C A combined cover 150 and wearable device 100 are shown, worn on the ear of a recipient, wherein the communication coil 152 of the cover 150 is positioned adjacent to the implanted coil 20 based on the location of the communication coil 152 within the cover 150. When the wearable device 100 is configured to be worn relative to the ear of a recipient, the wearable device 100 may be referred to as an ear-worn device or an ear-worn wearable device.

[0037] In this example, the implantable device 30 is an implantable medical device, such as a cochlear implant or tinnitus implant, and other devices. The implantable device 30 can be configured for implantation adjacent to the recipient's mastoid cavity.

[0038] The implanted coil 20 can be a component configured to receive or transmit signals, for example, via an inductive device formed by multiple turns of wire. In the example, other devices, such as an antenna or capacitor plate, can be used in addition to or in place of the coil, as described herein. In the example, the implanted coil 20 lacks a magnet. In the example, the implanted coil has an outer diameter of approximately 30 mm.

[0039] Wearable device 100 is a device configured to be worn by a recipient and configured to communicate with another device using communication coil 152. Wearable device 100 can be configured for any of a variety of functions, such as external sensing, charging, or processing for an implanted device. Wearable device 100 can take any of a variety of forms. In the illustrated example, wearable device 100 is arranged as a behind-the-ear device, such as for a hearing aid or hearing prosthesis. The following section discusses… Figure 11-13 Exemplary components and features of wearable device 100 are described.

[0040] In the example, wearable device 100 may be lateral. For example, wearable device 100 may be a left-side wearable device 100 or a right-side wearable device 100, and may be configured to be used with a specific corresponding left-side cover 150 or right-side cover 150. In an exemplary embodiment, wearable device 100 may be reconfigured such that a single wearable device 100 may be used as a left-side or right-side wearable device.

[0041] Wearable device 100 includes a wearable device electrical contact area 102 having at least one wearable device electrical contact 103. In the illustrated example, the wearable device electrical contact area 102 is located on the rear surface of wearable device 100. In other examples, the wearable device electrical contact area 102 may be located on the front surface of wearable device 100 or at another location. In an embodiment, the wearable device electrical contact 103 is formed as a socket for receiving cover electrical contacts 155 (e.g., pins) of cover 150. As a result, when cover 150 is attached to wearable device 100, the pins are disposed in the socket, thereby forming an electrical connection between wearable device 100 and cover 150. Other electrical connection devices may be used.

[0042] As shown, wearable device 100 includes a retainer 106. The retainer 106 is a component or portion of wearable device 100 configured to allow wearable device 100 to be worn and held by a recipient. In the illustrated example, the retainer 106 is in the form of an ear hook. The ear hook may be a curved component or portion of a housing extending from the body of wearable device 100. The curve of the ear hook 106 is configured to rest along a portion of the top of the recipient's auricle adjacent to the side of the recipient's head. When the ear hook 106 rests along a portion of the top of the recipient's auricle adjacent to the side of the recipient's head, wearable device 100 can be suspended on the recipient's ear, thereby wearably holding wearable device 100 on the recipient's ear. In the example, the retainer 106 is a clip configured to clip onto a portion of the recipient's body, clothing, or hair. In the example, the retainer 106 is a component configured to be inserted into the recipient's ear (e.g., into the auricle or ear canal) and held therein by engagement. In the example, the wearable device 100 is arranged as a pair of glasses, wherein the retainer 106 is the temple (e.g., the curved portion of the temple).

[0043] A removable cover 150 is a cover for a wearable device 100. The cover 150 may be configured to be removably attached to the wearable device 100 by a user. The cover 150 may be a component encapsulating at least some of the interior of the wearable device 100. In some examples, removal of the cover 150 exposes one or more user-accessible batteries or microphones. The cover 150 may completely or partially cover the wearable device 100. In some examples, the cover 150 is implemented as a removable panel of the wearable device 100. In some examples, the cover 150 is configured as at least a portion of the housing of the wearable device 100. In some examples, the cover 150 is configured to be disposed on an existing housing of the wearable device 100. The cover 150 may be configured as a protective shell for the wearable device 100. In some examples, the cover 150 includes one or more features (e.g., gaskets or seals) to prevent liquids or dust from entering the portion of the wearable device 100 covered by the cover 150. The cover 150 can be made of any of a variety of different materials, such as plastic, rubber, metal, other materials, or combinations thereof. In some examples, the cover 150 is made of the same material as the wearable device 100. In some examples, the cover 150 has a different physical shape to match the anatomy of the recipient's outer ear.

[0044] The cover 150 may substantially conform to the outer surface of at least a portion of the wearable device 100. The cover 150 may conform to the shape of the wearable device 100. For example, the cover 150 may conform to the shape of the portion of the wearable device 100 covered by the cover 150. The cover 150 may be a shell covering the wearable device 100. The cover 150 may be configured so as not to interfere with a recipient's use of the wearable device 100 when properly engaged with it.

[0045] The cover 150 can be attached to the wearable device 100 using any of a variety of techniques. The cover 150 can be configured to snap, stretch, clamp, or otherwise attach to the wearable device 100. In some examples, the cover 150 is or includes a flexible or resilient component that is stretched or shaped on the wearable device 100. In examples, the cover 150 can be configured to be flexible enough to deform and clamp into a holding area of ​​the wearable device 100 to retain the cover. The cover 150 can be configured to lock or unlock from the wearable device using a locking screw, tab, or latch. The cover 150 can be configured to be attached to and removed from the wearable device 100 by a user. The cover 150 can be configured to be repeatedly attached to and removed from the wearable device 100 by a user without substantially damaging the cover 150 or the wearable device 100. In some examples, the cover 150 is configured not to be removed or replaced by the user. Special tools or attachment configurations can be used.

[0046] The illustrated cover 150 includes a communication coil 152. The illustrated cover 150 also includes a cover electrical contact area 154. The illustrated cover 150 includes one or more cover electrical contacts 155 within the cover electrical contact area 154. The illustrated cover 150 further defines an inner surface 156, a recess 158, and an outer surface 159. In one example, the cover 150 may include a magnet configured to facilitate positioning of the cover 150 relative to the implanted coil 20. In other examples, the cover 150 lacks a magnet. The illustrated cover 150 defines a recess 158. When the cover 150 is attached to a wearable device 100, the wearable device 100 is at least partially received in the recess 158. The surface of the recess 158 may include the inner surface 156.

[0047] The communication coil 152 can be a component configured to receive or transmit signals, for example, via an inductive device formed by multiple turns of wire. In the examples, other devices, such as antennas or capacitor plates, can be used in conjunction with the examples described herein, in addition to or in place of the coil. The coil 152 can take any of a variety of shapes. For example, the communication coil 152 can be in the form of a wound copper coil. In some examples, the coil 152 includes a substrate to which the wire turns are fixed or disposed. In some examples, a cover 150 can serve as such a substrate.

[0048] The communication coil 152 can be positioned relative to the cover 150 in any of a variety of ways. For example, the communication coil 152 can be permanently attached to the cover 150 such that the communication coil 152 is not easily detached from the cover 150. In examples, the communication coil 152 is permanently attached to the cover 150 such that the coil 152 cannot be removed without significantly damaging one or both of the cover 150 and the coil 152. In some examples, the coil 152 is permanently attached to the cover 150 by embedding the coil in the cover 150 during the manufacturing process. The coil 152 can be embedded in the cover 150 during manufacturing. In some examples, the coil 152 is attached to the cover 150 with adhesive, epoxy resin, or by applying another material. In some examples, the coil 152 is permanently attached to the cover 150 after an adaptation process. For example, the coil 152 can be temporarily attached to the cover 150, and then, once the desired position of the coil 152 is determined, the coil 152 can be permanently secured to the cover 150 (e.g., using adhesive).

[0049] In at least some examples, coil 152 is configured to be easily repositioned relative to cover 150. For example, coil 152 and cover 150 may have compatible features that facilitate engagement. In examples, cover 150 includes an area covered by contact fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, or reclosable fasteners. Coil 152 includes compatible fasteners, thereby enabling coil 152 to be easily engaged with and disengaged from an area of ​​cover 150. In examples, coil 152 or cover 150 includes or is engaged with one or more fasteners to facilitate engagement, such as clips, tabs, slots, or other retaining features.

[0050] In the example shown, coil 152 has a generally circular shape. The communication coil 152 and the implantation coil 20 of the implantation device 30 may be positioned relative to each other (e.g., in a substantially coaxial relationship), wherein the position of the communication coil 152 in the cover 150 facilitates the orientation of coil 152 relative to implantation coil 20.

[0051] The cover electrical contact area 154 is the area of ​​the cover 150 or coil 152 configured to make the cover 150 or coil 152 electrically contact another device, such as wearable device 100. In an example, the cover electrical contact area 154 includes one or more electrical contacts 155 (also referred to as cover electrical contacts 155) configured to enable communication coil 152 to communicate electrically with wearable device 100. The one or more electrical contacts 155 may include at least two pins electrically coupled to communication coil 152. The pins may be rigid or movable (e.g., formed as spring pins). When the cover 150 is coupled to wearable device 100, at least one cover electrical contact 155 and at least one wearable device electrical contact 103 form a connection with each other, thereby enabling communication coil 152 to communicate electrically with wearable device 100.

[0052] The inner surface 156 is the portion of the removable cover 150 adjacent to the wearable device 100 when the cover 150 is attached to the wearable device 100. When the cover 150 is attached to the wearable device 100, the inner surface 156, or a portion thereof, may be in direct contact with the wearable device 100. An electrical contact area 154 and one or more electrical contacts 155 are disposed on the inner surface 156. In cases where the cover 150 includes a recess 158, the inner surface 156 may be a surface within the recess 158. One or more electrical contacts 155 may be disposed on the inner surface 156 of the removable cover 150 within the recess 158.

[0053] In the illustrated example, a removable cover 150 defines a recess 158 configured to receive the wearable device 100 when the removable cover 150 is attached to the wearable device 100. The recess 158 can be configured such that it can be sized and shaped to receive the wearable device 100. In the example, the cover 150 can elastically deform to accommodate the wearable device 100 disposed in the recess 158.

[0054] The illustrated configuration shows that the cover 150 is an integral piece adapted to the wearable device 100. The wearable device 100 can be attached to the cover 150 such that the rear portion of the wearable device 100 first enters the recess 158. In other embodiments (e.g., Figure 2A In the cover 150, the wearable device 100 can be attached to the cover 150 such that the front portion of the wearable device 100 first enters the recess 158. In another example, the cover 150 may be a sleeve or tubular structure that adapts to the wearable device 100. In some cases, the wearable device 100 is inserted into an opening defined by the cover 150, or the cover 150 is inserted into an opening or area defined by the wearable device 100. In some embodiments, the cover 150 is formed of a plurality of different parts joined together to cover the wearable device 100.

[0055] The outer surface 159 of the removable cover 150 can be a surface visible when the removable cover 150 is attached to the wearable device 100. In some examples, the outer surface 159 includes a decorative element.

[0056] Figure 2A , 2B Figures 2C and 2C illustrate an embodiment of a cover 150 attached to the front of a wearable device 100. Figure 2A A perspective view of the cover 150 attached to the front of the wearable device 100 is shown. Figure 2B A front view of the cover 150 is shown. Figure 2CA rear view of the cover 150 is shown, defining a recess 158 for receiving the wearable device 100. In this example, when the cover 150 is attached to the wearable device 100 and the wearable device 100 is worn on the recipient's ear, the front portion of the cover 150 is positioned adjacent to the posterior portion of the recipient's auricle, and the opening of the recess 158 is away from the recipient's auricle. This can be combined with... Figure 1A-1C The cover 150 forms a contrast, Figure 1A-1C The diagram shows that when the cover 150 is attached to the wearable device 100 and the wearable device is worn on the recipient's ear, the opening of the recess 158 is adjacent to the posterior portion of the recipient's auricle.

[0057] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2A-2C The illustrated cover 150 is a perspective view relative to the implantable device 30 having a coil 20. The illustrated cover 150 includes a coil 152 having a generally circular communication coil shape 352. The illustrated cover 150 has the coil 152 disposed adjacent to the bottom portion of the cover 150. The implantable coil 20 has a generally circular implantable coil shape 320.

[0058] Figure 4 A perspective view of a cover 150 is shown, the cover having a communication coil 152 disposed adjacent to the upper portion of the cover 150. Similar to... Figure 3 Coil 152, Figure 4 The coil 152 shown has a generally circular communication coil shape 352.

[0059] Figure 5 A cover 150 is shown with a coil 152 having a coil shape 504 that is substantially similar to the cover outline shape 502 of the cover 150. In the example shown, the communication coil 152 has a rectangular shape and a curved coil shape 504.

[0060] Repositionable coil

[0061] In some embodiments, the communication coil 152 is configured to be repositioned within the cover 150. Examples of such embodiments are shown in... Figures 6A-6C and Figures 7A-7C As shown in the image.

[0062] Figure 6A , 6B Figures 6C and 6C illustrate an exemplary embodiment of cover 150, wherein communication coil 152 is disposed on flexible printed circuit board 620. Figure 6A A perspective view of cover 150 is shown. Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A Top view of the cover 150. Figure 6C It shows along Figure 6B The line CC cut Figure 6BA cross-sectional view of the cover 150 is shown. As illustrated, a communication coil 152 is disposed on a flexible printed circuit board 620. Furthermore, the communication coil 152 is electrically connected to electrical contacts 155 of the cover 150 via one or more traces 622 also on the flexible printed circuit board 620. In other examples, the communication coil 152 may be electrically connected to the electrical contacts 155 of the cover via one or more wires. The flexibility of the printed circuit board 620 and its connection to the electrical contacts 155 facilitate the movement of the coil 152 to different locations on the cover 150, such as between the left and right sides of the cover 150.

[0063] Figure 7A , 7B Figures 7C and 7C illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a cover 150 having a wire 720 that connects a communication coil 152 to one or more electrical contacts 155. Figure 7A A perspective view of cover 150 is shown. Figure 7B It shows Figure 7A Top view of the cover 150. Figure 7C It shows along Figure 7B The line CC cut Figure 7B A sectional view of the cover 150.

[0064] In the illustrated example, the cover 150 defines a recessed region 710 within its inner surface 156. The recessed region 710 defines an area within which the coil 152 can be repositioned. The coil 152 can be configured to be repositioned within the recessed region 710. In this example, the recessed region 710 is configured to be recessed to a depth such that the coil 152 does not extend beyond the recessed region 710 when positioned within it. This configuration prevents the coil 152 from extending to the extent that it interferes with the connection to the cover 150 of the wearable device 100. In another example, the coil 152 is configured to engage with one or more features in the recessed region 710. For example, the coil 152 and the recessed region 710 may have compatible fasteners (e.g., contact fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, or reclosable fasteners). In some examples, the recessed region 710 is defined by the cover 150 and extends through one or more holes or openings in the cover, in which the coil 152 can be positioned.

[0065] Recessed part

[0066] Figure 8 A wearable device 100 with a recessed portion 802 is shown. The recessed portion 802 is configured to receive a cover 150. The recessed portion 802 can be configured such that when the cover 150 is attached to the wearable device 100, the resulting combination has a substantially smooth and continuous transition between the cover 150 and the wearable device 100. For example, although small seams or gaps may exist between the components, the discontinuity is relatively small.

[0067] Multiple coils

[0068] Figure 9 An exemplary device 900 with multiple coils 152A, 152B, 152C, 152D, and 152E is shown. In some examples, device 900 is configured as wearable device 100 as described elsewhere herein. For example, one or more coils 152 may be disposed directly within the wearable device without being disposed relative to a cover. In other examples, multiple coils 152 may be disposed within a cover 150. In some examples, cover 150 may have multiple different coils 152 on the left and right sides. Cover 150 may have multiple different pins distinguished on the left or right coils, and the device may be configured to select a suitable coil from different options.

[0069] In some examples, device 900 is template 900, configured to function as part of the fitting process to determine which coil configuration is appropriate given the location of implanted coil 20. For example, template 900 may be worn on the recipient's ear, and the connection strength between one or more coils of template 900 and implanted coil 20 may be measured. The location of coil 152 with the highest connection strength can then be used to determine the position of coil 152 within cover 150. The following is about... Figure 10B Operations 1012, 1014, and 1018 describe exemplary uses of template 900.

[0070] Exemplary methods

[0071] Figure 10A and Figure 10B Method 1000 is illustrated. Method 1000 may include various operations, including operations 1002, 1004, 1010, 1020, 1030, 1034 and 1036.

[0072] Operation 1002 includes custom manufacturing the cover 150 for the recipient. In some examples, the cover 150 is partially or wholly customized for a specific recipient. For example, measurements can be taken of the area where the cover 150 will be positioned, and the cover 150 can be customized based on these measurements. For example, in the case of the cover 150 being used for wearable device 100, the cover 150 can be customized to match specific anatomy adjacent to the recipient's ear to improve fit and comfort. In some examples, the cover 150 is custom manufactured with respect to the positioning of the coil 152 relative to the cover 150. In some examples, the custom manufacturing is based on the results of the cover selection process described in Operation 1010 below.

[0073] Operation 1004 may include implanting coil 20 in the recipient. For example, implantation may include forming a cavity in the recipient's mastoid bone and implanting one or both of implantation coil 20 and implantable device 30 into the cavity formed in the recipient's mastoid bone.

[0074] Operation 1010 may include selecting a cover 150 having a communication coil 152. In an example, operation 1010 includes selecting a selected cover 150 from a plurality of covers 150, wherein at least one of the plurality of covers 150 has a communication coil 152 located at a different position than the selected cover 150. In an example, the selected cover 150 is selected from the plurality of covers 150 based on the similarity between the shape of the communication coil 152 of the selected cover 150 and the shape of the implanted coil 20. The selection may be further based on the location where the implanted coil 20 is implanted. A cover 150 may be selected based on a cover 150 having a coil 152 that aligns with the recipient's implanted coil 20. Figure 10B As shown, operation 1010 may also include operations 1012, 1014, 1016 and 1018.

[0075] Operation 1012 includes placing the template 900. For example, placement may include placing the template 900 adjacent to the ear of a recipient having the implanted coil 20. After operation 1012, the process may move to operation 1014, which includes measuring connection strength 1014. In an example, operation 1014 includes measuring the connection strength between the respective coil 152 of the template 900 and the implanted coil 20 for each of the plurality of coils 152A, 152B, 152C, 152D, 152E of the template 900. After operation 1014, the process may move to operation 1018.

[0076] Operation 1016 may include measuring the connection strength of one or more covers 150. In an example, operation 1016 includes, for each of the plurality of covers 150, measuring the connection strength between a corresponding cover communication coil 152 and an implanted coil 20 of the corresponding cover 150.

[0077] Operation 1018 may include selecting cover 150 based on connection strength. For example, operation 1014 may result in multiple different connection strengths for various coils 152 of template 900. And operation 1016 may result in multiple different connection strengths being measured for different coils 152. In the example, operation 1018 includes selecting defining cover 150 based on the coil 152 of template 900 associated with the highest measured communication strength. For example, selected cover 150 may have coils 152 in a position similar to the position of the coil 152 of template 900 associated with the highest measured communication strength.

[0078] return Figure 10AOperation 1020 includes modifying the position of the communication coil 152. As described above, certain covers 150 and coil 152 can be configured such that coil 152 can be repositioned relative to cover 150. The repositioning of the communication coil 152 may include detaching coil 152 from cover 150, repositioning coil 152, and reconnecting coil 152 to cover 150. In this example, the position modification is based on a measured connection strength between coil 152 and implanted coil 20. In a first position, coil 152 may have a first connection strength lower than the second connection strength in a second position.

[0079] Operation 1030 includes attaching a cover 150 having a communication coil 152 to a wearable device 100. Attachment may include inserting the front, side, rear, top, and / or bottom of the wearable device 100 into a recess 158 of the cover 150. Attachment may include inserting the cover 150 into the wearable device 100. Attachment may include snapping the cover 150 into the wearable device 100, stretching the cover 150 onto the wearable device 100, sliding the cover 150 onto the wearable device 100, or clamping the cover 150 onto the wearable device 100. In some examples, operation 1030 includes resiliently deforming the cover 150 or a portion thereof to adapt the cover 150 to the wearable device 100. Operation 1030 may include locking the cover 150 to the wearable device 100 using a locking screw, tab, or latch.

[0080] In some examples, operation 1030 includes operation 1032. Operation 1032 includes electrically connecting communication coil 152. In examples, the electrical connection includes electrically connecting a first cover 150 electrical contact of cover 150 to a first wearable device electrical contact 103 of wearable device 100, and electrically connecting a second cover 150 electrical contact of cover 150 to a second wearable device electrical contact 103 of wearable device 100. In some examples, physically attaching cover 150 to wearable device 100 is the same movement as electrically connecting communication coil 152 to wearable device 100. In some examples, the electrical connection occurs as a separate movement from the physical connection of cover 150 and wearable device 100.

[0081] Operation 1034 includes attaching the wearable device 100 to the ear. In an example, operation 1034 includes attaching the wearable device 100 to the recipient's ear such that a communication coil 152 is positioned adjacent to the implanted coil 20. In an example, attachment includes suspending the wearable device 100 on the recipient's ear. Attachment may allow the communication coil 152 to be positioned adjacent to the implanted coil 20 based on its location within the cover 150. In some examples, operation 1034 includes at least partially inserting the wearable device 100 into the auricle and / or ear canal of the recipient's ear.

[0082] Operation 1036 includes establishing an inductive connection. The inductive connection may be an inductive connection between coil 152 and implanted coil 20. The inductive connection may be a connection between wearable device 100 and implanted device 30 via corresponding coils 20, 152. The inductive connection may be used to transmit one or both of power and data unidirectionally or bidirectionally between wearable device 100 and implanted device 30 via coils 20, 152.

[0083] Exemplary device

[0084] As previously stated, the techniques disclosed herein can be applied to any of a variety of situations and used with a variety of different devices. The following is... Figure 11 Exemplary devices that can benefit from the techniques disclosed herein are described in more detail in section –13. For example, the techniques described herein can be used with wearable medical devices, such as… Figure 11 The implantable stimulation system, such as Figure 12 The cochlear implant or such Figure 13 The retinal prosthesis described herein. This technology can be applied to other medical devices, such as neurostimulators, pacemakers, defibrillators, sleep apnea management stimulators, epilepsy treatment stimulators, tinnitus management stimulators, and vestibular stimulators, as well as other medical devices that deliver stimulation to tissues. Furthermore, the technology described herein can also be applied to consumer devices. These diverse systems and devices can benefit from the technology described herein.

[0085] Exemplary device—Implantable stimulator system

[0086] Figure 11 This is a functional block diagram of an implantable stimulator system 1100 that can benefit from the techniques described herein. The implantable stimulator system 1100 includes a wearable device 100 that acts as an external processor device and an implantable device 30 that acts as an implanted stimulator device. In this example, the implantable device 30 is an implantable stimulator device configured to be implanted under the tissue (e.g., skin) of a recipient. In this example, the implantable device 30 includes a biocompatible implantable housing 1102. Here, the wearable device 100 is configured to be percutaneously coupled to the implantable device 30 via a wireless connection to provide additional functionality to the implantable device 30.

[0087] In the illustrated example, wearable device 100 includes one or more sensors 1112, a processor 1114, a transceiver 1118, and a power supply 1148. The one or more sensors 1112 may be one or more units configured to generate data based on sensed activity. In an example where the stimulation system 1100 is an auditory prosthetic system, the one or more sensors 1112 may include sound input sensors, such as a microphone, an electrical input for an FM hearing system, other components for receiving sound input, or combinations thereof. In the case where the stimulation system 1100 is a visual prosthetic system, the one or more sensors 1112 may include one or more cameras or other visual sensors. In the case where the stimulation system 1100 is a cardiac stimulator, the one or more sensors 1112 may include a cardiac monitor. The processor 1114 may be a component (e.g., a central processing unit) configured to control stimulation provided by implantable device 30. Stimulation may be controlled based on data from the sensors 1112, a stimulation schedule, or other data. In the case where the stimulation system 1100 is an auditory prosthesis, the processor 1114 can be configured to convert sound signals received from the sensor 1112 (e.g., acting as a sound input unit) into signal 1151. The transceiver 1118 is configured to transmit signal 1151 in the form of an electrical signal, a data signal, a combination thereof (e.g., via interleaved signals), or other signals. The transceiver 1118 can also be configured to receive electrical or data signals. The stimulation signal can be generated by the processor 1114 and transmitted using the transceiver 1118 to the implantable device 30 for providing stimulation.

[0088] In the example shown, the implantable device 30 includes a transceiver 1118, a power supply 1148, and a medical device 1111 including an electronic module 1110 and a stimulator assembly 1130. The implantable device 30 also includes a hermetically sealed biocompatible implantable housing 1102, one or more of its closure components.

[0089] Electronic module 1110 may include one or more other components to provide medical device functionality. In many examples, electronic module 1110 includes one or more components for receiving signals and converting them into stimulation signals 1115. Electronic module 1110 may also include a stimulator unit. Electronic module 1110 may generate stimulation signal 1115 or control the delivery of stimulation signal to stimulator assembly 1130. In examples, electronic module 1110 includes one or more processors (e.g., central processing unit or microcontroller) coupled to a memory component (e.g., flash memory) that stores instructions that, when executed, cause an operation to be performed. In examples, electronic module 1110 generates and monitors parameters associated with the generation and delivery of stimulation (e.g., output voltage, output current, or line impedance). In examples, electronic module 1110 generates telemetry signals (e.g., data signals) that include telemetry data. Electronic module 1110 may transmit the telemetry signals to wearable device 100 or store the telemetry signals in memory for later use or retrieval.

[0090] Stimulator assembly 1130 may be a component configured to provide stimulation to target tissue. In the illustrated example, stimulator assembly 1130 is an electrode assembly including an array of electrode contacts disposed on leads. The leads may be located adjacent to the tissue to be stimulated. In the case where system 1100 is a cochlear implant system, stimulator assembly 1130 may be inserted into the cochlea of ​​a recipient. Stimulator assembly 1130 may be configured to deliver a stimulation signal 1115 (e.g., an electrical stimulation signal) generated by electronic module 1110 to the cochlea to enable the recipient to experience auditory perception. In other examples, stimulator assembly 1130 is a vibration actuator disposed inside or outside the housing of implantable device 30 and configured to generate vibrations. The vibration actuator receives the stimulation signal 1115 and generates a mechanical output force in the form of vibrations based on the stimulation signal. The actuator may deliver vibrations to the recipient's skull in a manner that generates movement or vibration of the recipient's skull, thereby generating auditory perception by activating hair cells in the recipient's cochlea via cochlear fluid movement.

[0091] Transceiver 1118 may be a component configured to receive and / or transmit signals 1151 (e.g., electrical signals and / or data signals) percutaneously. Transceiver 1118 may be an assembly of one or more components forming part of a percutaneous energy or data transmission system to transmit signals 1151 between wearable device 100 and implantable device 30. Various types of signal transmission, such as electromagnetic, capacitive, and inductive transmissions, can be used to effectively receive or transmit signals 1151. Transceiver 1118 may include or be electrically connected to coils 20, 1118.

[0092] As shown in the figure, a cover 150 is disposed around a wearable device 100. The cover 150 includes a communication coil 152 connected to the wearable device, which includes an electrical contact 155 having a wearable device electrical contact 103.

[0093] In the example shown, the wearable device 100 and cover 150 lack one or more magnets for positioning coil 152 and implanting coil 20. In other embodiments, one or more magnets may be used to align the respective coils 152, 20. The coil 152 of the wearable device 100 may be positioned relative to the magnet group (e.g., in a coaxial relationship).

[0094] Power source 1148 may be one or more components configured to provide operating power to other components. Power source 1148 may be or include one or more rechargeable batteries. Power can be received from the power source and stored in the batteries. The power can then be distributed to other components for operation as needed.

[0095] It should be understood that, although combined Figure 11 While specific components have been described, the techniques disclosed herein can be applied to any of a variety of situations. The foregoing discussion is not intended to suggest that the disclosed techniques are only suitable for applications similar to those described above. Figure 11 The system implementation shown and described in the figure is illustrated. Typically, additional configurations can be used to practice the methods and systems described herein, and / or some aspects described may be excluded without departing from the methods and systems disclosed herein.

[0096] Exemplary device—cochlear implant

[0097] Figure 12 An example cochlear implant system 1210 is shown that can benefit from using the techniques disclosed herein. The cochlear implant system 1210 includes an implantable component 1244 (which may correspond to an implantable device 30), which typically has an internal receiver / transceiver unit 1232, a stimulator unit 1220, and elongated leads 1218. The internal receiver / transceiver unit 1232 allows the cochlear implant system 1210 to receive signals from and / or transmit signals to an external device 1250 (which may correspond to a wearable device 100). The external device 1250 may be a button sound processor worn on the head, which includes sound processing components and is disposed on a cover (e.g., cover 150). Figure 12 The receiver / transceiver coil 1230 (e.g., corresponding to coil 152) is shown in the image. Alternatively, the external device 1250 may simply be a transmitter / transceiver coil that communicates with a behind-the-ear device including sound processing components and a microphone.

[0098] The implantable component 1244 includes an internal coil 1236 and an implantable magnet preferably fixed relative to the internal coil 1236. The magnet may be embedded together with the internal coil 1236 in a flexible silicone or other biocompatible sealant. The transmitted signal typically corresponds to an external sound 1213. The internal receiver / transceiver unit 1232 and the stimulator unit 1220 are hermetically sealed within a biocompatible housing, and they are sometimes collectively referred to as the stimulator / receiver unit. The included magnet facilitates operational alignment of the external coil 1230 and the internal coil 1236 (e.g., via magnetic connection), thereby enabling the internal coil 1236 to receive electrical and stimulation data from the external coil 1230. The external coil 1230 is contained within an external portion. An elongated lead 1218 has a proximal end connected to the stimulator unit 1220 and a distal end 1246 implanted in the cochlea 1240 of the recipient. A thin lead 1218 extends from the stimulator unit 1220 through the recipient's mastoid bone 1219 to the cochlea 1240. The thin lead 1218 is used to deliver electrical stimulation to the cochlea 1240 based on stimulation data. Stimulation data can be created based on external sound 1213 using sound processing components and based on sensory prosthesis settings.

[0099] In some examples, the outer coil 1230 transmits electrical signals (i.e., power and stimulation data) to the inner coil 1236 via a radio frequency (RF) link. The inner coil 1236 is typically a wire antenna coil with multiple turns of electrically insulated single-strand or multi-strand platinum or gold wire. The electrical insulation of the inner coil 1236 can be provided by a flexible silicone molding. Various types of energy transfer, such as infrared (IR), electromagnetic, capacitive, and inductive transfer, can be used to transfer power and / or data from an external device to the cochlear implant. While the above description has described the inner and outer coils as being formed of insulated wire, in many cases, the inner and / or outer coils can be implemented via conductive traces.

[0100] Exemplary device—retinal prosthesis

[0101] Figure 13 A retinal prosthesis system 1301 is shown, comprising an external device 1310 (which may correspond to a wearable device 100), a retinal prosthesis 1300, and a mobile computing device 1303. The retinal prosthesis 1300 includes an implantation processing module 1325 (e.g., which may correspond to an implantable device 30), and a retinal prosthesis sensor stimulator 1390 is positioned adjacent to the recipient's retina. The external device 1310 and the processing module 1325 can communicate via communication coils 20, 152. As described elsewhere herein, the communication coil 152 of the external device 1310 may be disposed in a cover 150, which may facilitate alignment of the coil 152 with the implanted coil 20. A signal 1351 can be transmitted using the coils 20, 152.

[0102] In this example, sensory input (e.g., photons entering the eye) is absorbed by a microelectronic array of sensor-stimulator 1390, which is hybridized with a glass element 1392 comprising, for example, an embedded microwire array. The glass may have a curved surface conforming to the inner radius of the retina. Sensor-stimulator 1390 may include a microelectronic imaging device, which may be made of thin silicon containing an integrated circuit system that converts incident photons into electron charges.

[0103] Processing module 1325 includes an image processor 1323 that communicates signalically with sensor-stimulator 1390 via, for example, a lead 1388 extending through a surgical incision 1389 formed in the eye wall. In other examples, processing module 1325 communicates wirelessly with sensor-stimulator 1390. Image processor 1323 processes inputs from sensor-stimulator 1390 and provides control signals back to sensor-stimulator 1390, thus enabling the device to provide outputs to the optic nerve. That is, in alternative instances, the processing is performed by components adjacent to or integrated with sensor-stimulator 1390. The charge generated by the conversion of incident photons is converted into a proportional amount of electronic current, which is input to a nearby layer of retinal cells. The cells are excited, and the signal is sent to the optic nerve, thus triggering visual perception.

[0104] The processing module 1325 can be implanted in the recipient and functions by communicating with an external device 1310, such as an behind-the-ear unit, a pair of glasses, etc. The external device 1310 may include an external light / image capturing device (e.g., located in / on the behind-the-ear unit or a pair of glasses, etc.), and as noted above, in some examples, a sensor-stimulator 1390 captures light / images, which is implanted in the recipient.

[0105] Similar to the example above, the retinal prosthesis system 1301 can be used in a spatial region having at least one controllable network connection device associated with it (e.g., located therein). Therefore, the processing module 1325 includes a performance monitoring engine 1327 configured to acquire data relating to the “sensory outcome” or “sensory performance” of a recipient of the retinal prosthesis 1300 in the spatial region. As used herein, the “sensory outcome” or “sensory performance” of a recipient of a sensory prosthesis (e.g., retinal prosthesis 1300) is an estimate or measure of how effectively the stimulus signals delivered to the recipient represent sensor inputs captured from the surrounding environment.

[0106] Data representing the performance of the retinal prosthesis 1300 in the spatial region is provided to the mobile computing device 1303 and analyzed by a network connectivity evaluation engine 1362, taking into account the operational capabilities of at least one controllable network connectivity device associated with the spatial region. For example, the network connectivity evaluation engine 1362 can determine one or more effects of the controllable network connectivity device on the sensory outcomes of a receiver within the spatial region. The network connectivity evaluation engine 1362 is configured to determine one or more operational changes of at least one controllable network connectivity device and accordingly initiate one or more operational changes of at least one controllable network connectivity device, said one or more operational changes being estimated to improve the sensory outcomes of a receiver within the spatial region.

[0107] ***

[0108] It should be understood that while specific uses of this technology have been described and discussed above, the disclosed technology can be used with various apparatuses according to many examples of this technology. The foregoing discussion is not intended to suggest that the disclosed technology is only suitable for implementation in systems similar to those shown in the accompanying drawings. In general, additional configurations can be used to practice the processes and systems described herein, and / or some aspects can be excluded without departing from the processes and systems disclosed herein.

[0109] This disclosure describes some aspects of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate only some possible aspects. However, other aspects may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to those set forth herein. Rather, these aspects are provided to make this disclosure exhaustive and complete and to fully convey the scope of possible aspects to those skilled in the art.

[0110] It should be understood that this document is not intended to limit the system and process to the specific aspects described with respect to the accompanying drawings (e.g., parts, components, etc.). Therefore, additional configurations can be used to practice the methods and systems described herein, and / or some aspects described may be excluded without departing from the methods and systems disclosed herein.

[0111] Similarly, where the steps of a process are disclosed, these steps are described for illustrative purposes of the method and system and are not intended to limit this disclosure to a particular sequence of steps. For example, these steps may be performed in a different order, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously, additional steps may be performed, and the disclosed steps may be excluded without departing from this disclosure. Furthermore, the disclosed process may be repeated.

[0112] Although specific aspects have been described herein, the scope of this technology is not limited to those specific aspects. Those skilled in the art will recognize other aspects or modifications within the scope of this invention. Therefore, specific structures, operations, or media are disclosed only as illustrative aspects. The scope of this technology is defined by the following claims and any of their equivalents.

Claims

1. A device for an ear-worn wearable device, comprising: A removable cover (150) includes a recess (158), an outer surface (159), and an inner surface (156) opposite to the outer surface (159). The inner surface (156) is a surface within the recess (158) and is configured to fit onto at least a portion of the outer surface of an ear-worn wearable device (100) such that the outer surface of the cover is visible when the removable cover is attached to the wearable device. The removable cover (150) includes a communication coil (152).

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the cover (150) comprises: One or more electrical contacts (155) configured to enable the communication coil (152) to communicate electrically with the ear-worn wearable device (100).

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, The one or more electrical contacts (155) are disposed on the inner surface (156) of the removable cover (150) within the recess (158).

4. The apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, The one or more electrical contacts (155) therein include at least two pins (155) electrically connected to the communication coil (152).

5. The apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, The communication coil (152) is electrically connected to the electrical contact (155) via a trace (622) on a flexible printed circuit board (620); or The communication coil (152) is electrically connected to the electrical contact (155) via a wire (720).

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, The communication coil (152) therein has a generally circular shape.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, The communication coil (152) is configured to be repositioned in the cover (150).

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, The cover (150) includes a recessed area (710); and The communication coil (152) is configured to be repositioned within the recessed area (710).

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, The cover (150) has a cover profile shape (502); The communication coil (152) therein has a coil shape (504) that is substantially similar to the cover profile shape (502).

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, 2 or 3, The device said device includes the ear-worn wearable device (100). The communication coil (152) is a wound copper coil embedded in the cover (150); The cover (150) mentioned above lacks a magnet; or The communication coil (152) is disposed on a flexible printed circuit board (620) integrated in the cover (150).

11. A connection method, comprising: Select (1010) a cover (150) having a communication coil (152), the cover (150) including a recess (158), an outer surface (159) and an inner surface (156), the inner surface (156) and the outer surface (159) being opposite each other, wherein the inner surface (156) is a surface within the recess (158) and is configured to fit onto at least a portion of the outer surface of the wearable device (100) such that the outer surface of the cover is visible when the cover is attached to the wearable device; and The cover (150) is attached (1030) to the wearable device (100).

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: After selecting the cover, modify (1020) the position of the communication coil (152).

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein selecting (1010) the cover (150) comprises: Select (1010) a selected cover (150) from a plurality of covers (150), wherein at least one of the plurality of covers (150) has a communication coil (152) in a different position from the selected cover (150).

14. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein selecting (1010) the cover (150) comprises: Based on the similarity between the shape of the communication coil (152) of the selected cover (150) and the shape of the implanted coil (20), a selected cover (150) is selected from a plurality of covers (150) (1010).

15. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein attaching (1030) the cover (150) to the wearable device (100) comprises: The communication coil (152) is electrically connected (1032) to the wearable device (100).

16. The method of claim 15, wherein electrically connecting (1032) the communication coil (152) to the wearable device (100) comprises: Electrically connect (1032) the first cover (150) electrical contact of the cover (150) to the first wearable device electrical contact (103) of the wearable device (100); and The second cover (150) electrical contact of the cover (150) is electrically connected (1032) to the second wearable device electrical contact (103) of the wearable device (100).

17. The method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein selecting the cover (150) having the communication coil (152) comprises: An ear placement (1012) template (900) adjacent to the recipient with the implanted coil (20). For each corresponding coil (152) of the plurality of coils (152A, 152B, 152C, 152D, 152E) of the template (900), the connection strength between the corresponding coil (152) of the template (900) and the implanted coil (20) is measured (1014); and The selected cover (150) is selected (1018) based on the coil (152) of the template (900) associated with the highest measured communication strength.

18. The method of claim 11 or 12, further comprising: The wearable device (100) is attached (1034) to the recipient's ear such that the communication coil (152) is positioned adjacent to the implanted coil (20); and An inductive connection (1034) is established between the communication coil (152) and the implanted coil (20).

19. The method of claim 18, wherein selecting (1010) the cover (150) comprises: For each of the plurality of covers (150), the connection strength between the corresponding cover communication coil (152) of the corresponding cover (150) and the implanted coil (20) is measured (1016); and Select (1010) the selected cover (150) based on the selected cover (150) with the highest connection strength.

20. The method according to claim 18, The method further includes implanting the implantation coil (20) into a cavity (1004) formed in the mastoid bone of the recipient; The method further includes custom manufacturing (1002) the cap (150) for the recipient. Attaching (1034) the wearable device (100) to the recipient's ear includes suspending the wearable device (100) on the recipient's ear; or The communication coil (152) is positioned in the cover (150) adjacent to the implanted coil (20).

21. A wearable system comprising: Wearable device (100); as well as A cover (150) removably coupled to the wearable device (100) includes a recess (158), an outer surface (159), and an inner surface (156) opposite to the outer surface (159). The inner surface (156) is a surface within the recess (158) and is configured to fit onto at least a portion of the outer surface of the wearable device (100) such that the outer surface of the cover is visible when the cover is coupled to the wearable device. The cover (150) has a communication coil (152) that is electrically in communication with the wearable device (100).

22. The system according to claim 21, The cover (150) includes a cover electrical contact area (154) having at least one cover electrical contact (155). The wearable device (100) includes a wearable device electrical contact area (102) having at least one wearable device electrical contact (103); and When the cover (150) is connected to the wearable device (100), at least one cover electrical contact (155) and at least one wearable device electrical contact (103) are connected to each other, thereby enabling the communication coil (152) to communicate electrically with the wearable device (100).

23. The system according to claim 22, The at least one cover electrical contact (155) includes a pin; The at least one wearable device electrical contact (103) includes a socket; and When the cover (150) is connected to the wearable device (100), the pins are disposed in the socket.

24. The system according to claim 22 or 23, The cover (150) is configured to be removably attached to the wearable device (100) by the user.

25. The system according to claim 22 or 23, The wearable device (100) includes a recess (802) configured to receive the cover (150).

26. The system according to claim 25, The cover (150) is substantially shaped to fit at least a portion of the outer surface of the wearable device.

27. The system according to claim 22 or 23, When the cover (150) is attached to the wearable device (100), the wearable device (100) is at least partially received in the recess (158).

28. The system according to claim 22 or 23, further comprising: An implantable device (30) including an implantable coil (20).

29. The system according to claim 28, The communication coil shape (352) of the communication coil (152) matches the implantable coil shape (320) of the implantable coil (20); The implantable device (30) is a cochlear implant; The implantable device (30) is a tinnitus implant; The implantable device (30) is configured to be implanted adjacent to the recipient's mastoid cavity; or The implantable coil (20) described therein lacks a magnet socket.

30. The system according to claim 22 or 23, The wearable device (100) is a pair of glasses; The wearable device (100) mentioned above is a sound processor; The wearable device (100) includes an ear hook (106) configured to secure the wearable device (100) substantially behind the ear of the recipient; The communication coil (152) described herein has a rectangular shape; The cover (150) conforms to the shape of the wearable device (100); The cover (150) is a protective shell for the wearable device (100); The wearable device (100) is the left-side wearable device (100), and the cover (150) is the left-side cover (150); or The wearable device (100) is the right-side wearable device (100), and the cover (150) is the right-side cover (150).

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