Hearing aid implant recharging system

Abstract

To provide a charging and recharging system for a compact hearing aid, a component thereof, and a support device therefor.SOLUTION: A charging and recharging system includes a light emitting device such as an auditory insert having a light emitting diode, and a photovoltaic cell placed on an implanted hearing aid. In operation, the light emitting device is located at or near the entrance to an ear canal, light energy is transmitted through the ear canal and directed towards the implanted hearing aid. The photovoltaic cell receives the light energy and converts the light energy into stored electricity to power the hearing aid.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5B

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to hearing assistive devices and methods for recharging them. In particular, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to recharging hearing aid implants via light emitting diode based photovoltaic systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Hearing aids are well known and typically include a microphone, an amplifier, and a speaker. Typically, the microphone receives sound waves and converts the sound waves into an electrical signal. The amplifier amplifies the electrical signal. The speaker converts the amplified signal into amplified sound waves. The amplified sound waves impart vibrations to a tympanic membrane or ear drum inside the ear. Traditionally, hearing aids are mounted outside the ear canal, specifically around the outer ear. Externally mounted hearing aids have the advantage of easy access for adjusting the volume and replacing batteries. However, many users consider such externally mounted hearing aids to be relatively bulky and undesirable for aesthetic and comfort reasons.

[0003] An alternative to externally mounted hearing aids are internally mounted hearing aids, which are placed in the ear canal of the user. Traditional internally mounted hearing aids offer a better aesthetic appearance, but they also have disadvantages. Such hearing aids are usually used for long periods of time and utilize microelectronic chipsets that consume large amounts of power. Thus, they require repeated battery replacement every few days or frequent recharging using bulky inductive charging devices. The requirement for frequent battery replacement and / or recharging makes internally mounted hearing aids less desirable for active people and children, and as a result, significantly impacts the quality of life of hearing impaired people in the population.

[0004] Therefore, what is needed in the art is an improved method and apparatus for recharging internally installed hearing aids. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to methods and apparatus for recharging internally installed hearing aids, and more particularly to recharging internally installed hearing aid implants via a light emitting diode based photovoltaic system.

[0006] In one embodiment, a charging system for a hearing aid implant placed through the tympanic membrane of the ear includes one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells located on a proximal end of the hearing aid implant and one or more light sources configured to be inserted at or near the entrance of the ear canal of the ear. In operation, the one or more light sources emit light energy that can be received by the one or more PV cells to charge the hearing aid implant.

[0007] In one embodiment, a charging system for a hearing aid implant placed through the tympanic membrane of the ear includes one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells located on a proximal end of the hearing aid implant and a charging device configured to be inserted at or near the entrance of the ear canal of the ear. The charging device further includes one or more light sources that emit light energy that can be received by the one or more PV cells of the hearing aid implant and that have wavelengths that correspond to wavelength bands of high reflectance by one or more surfaces of the ear canal. In operation, the one or more PV cells convert light energy into stored electricity to power the hearing aid implant.

[0008] In one embodiment, a charging system for a hearing aid implant placed through the ear drum includes one or more photovoltaic (PV) cells disposed on a proximal end of the hearing aid implant and a charging device configured to be inserted at or near the entrance of an ear canal of the ear. The charging device further includes one or more high spectral purity, high efficiency resonant cavity light emitting diodes (LEDs) for emitting light energy having wavelengths corresponding to wavelength bands of high reflectance by one or more surfaces of the ear canal. A support device is connected to the one or more LEDs and is positioned at least partially outside the ear canal and configured to secure the charging device to the ear. In operation, the one or more PV cells are configured to absorb light energy emitted directly from the one or more LEDs as well as light energy reflected by one or more surfaces of the ear canal, convert the light energy into stored electricity, and power the implanted hearing aid.

[0009] To allow the above-listed features of the present disclosure to be understood in detail, the more detailed description of the present disclosure, briefly summarized above, may refer to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, the accompanying drawings show only exemplary embodiments, and therefore should not be considered as limiting its scope, as other equally effective embodiments may be recognized. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an ear with a hearing aid implanted through the tympanic membrane and a wireless charging device inserted near the entrance of the ear canal. [Figure 2A-2B] 2A-2B show schematic cross-sectional views of a light source assembly of the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 3A-3B] 3A-3B show schematic cross-sectional views of the photovoltaic assembly of the hearing aid of FIG. [Figure 4A-4B] 4A-4B show perspective views of the hearing aid of FIG. [Figure 5A-5B] 5A-5B show an auditory insert for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 7A-7D] 7A to 7D show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 8A-8C] 8A to 8C show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 illustrates an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 10A-10B] 10A-10B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 12A-12B] 12A-12B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 13A-13B] 13A to 13B show accessories for an external support device of the wireless charging device of FIG. 1. [Figure 14A-14B] 14A-14B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 15A-15B] 15A-15B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 16A-16B] 16A-16B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 17A-17B] 17A-17B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 18A-18B] 18A-18B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 19A-19B] 19A-19B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 20A-20B]20A-20B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Figure 21A-21B] 21A-21B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. [Fig. 22A-22B] 22A-22B show an external support device for the wireless charging device of FIG. 1.

[0011] To facilitate understanding and to indicate like elements common to the figures, the same reference numbers have been used wherever possible, and it is understood that elements and features of one embodiment may be beneficially incorporated in other embodiments without further recitation thereof. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] The present disclosure relates to a charging and recharging system for compact hearing aids, its components, and support devices therefor. The charging and recharging system generally includes a light-emitting device, such as an auditory insert having a light-emitting diode, and a photovoltaic cell disposed on the implanted hearing aid. In operation, the light-emitting device is located at or near the entrance of the ear canal and transmits light energy through the ear canal toward the implanted hearing aid. The photovoltaic cell receives the light energy and converts the light energy into stored electricity to power the implanted hearing aid. In certain embodiments, the light-emitting device further transmits one or more wireless command signals to the implanted hearing aid. The implanted hearing aid may execute a command (e.g., a function) based on the wireless command signal received from the light-emitting device.

[0013] The embodiments described herein provide exemplary configurations of the implanted hearing aid contemplated by this disclosure. However, any other configuration suitable for a hearing aid that adjusts the velocity or position of the tympanic membrane by direct or indirect adjustment is also contemplated. The following embodiments describe, by way of example, the insertion of the disclosed compact hearing aid through the tympanic membrane. However, the compact hearing aid can also be placed in other locations in the ear.

[0014] Ear Anatomy 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an ear 100 with a hearing aid implanted through the eardrum and a wireless charging device inserted into the ear canal. The ear 100 includes an outer ear 110, an ear canal 112 leading from the outer ear 110 to a tympanic membrane 114 located near the proximal end of the ear canal 112. The structure of the outer ear 110 provides a "funnel" that directs the amplitude of sound waves into the ear canal 112 and amplifies them. The ossicular chain 115, located in the middle ear and positioned inside the outer ear 110 to the tympanic membrane 114, couples and amplifies vibrations from the tympanic membrane 114 to the inner ear, which has a spiral structure known as the cochlea 120. The cochlea 120 converts the vibrations into impulses to the brain.

[0015] A hearing aid, such as the hearing aid 122 of the present disclosure, can be inserted through the outer ear 110, into the ear canal 112, at least partially through the eardrum 114. The hearing aid 122 typically includes a sensor, such as a microphone, and at least one tympanic membrane stimulating member, described in more detail below. The hearing aid 122 typically receives sound waves traveling from the outer ear 110 through the ear canal 112, converts these sound waves into electrical or electromagnetic signals, and converts these electrical signals into mechanical motion. This is typically referred to as a feed-forward system. This mechanical motion is used to impact the eardrum 114 and / or parts of the middle and inner ear, causing the ossicular chain 115, specifically the malleus 118, incus 117, and stapes 116, to vibrate. These three bones in the ossicular chain 115 act as a set of levers that amplify the amplitude of the vibrations received by the eardrum 114. The stapes 116 leads to the entrance of a spiral structure known as the cochlea 120, which contains inner ear lymph. Mechanical vibrations of the stapes 116 create fluid impulses in this fluid. These fluid impulses cause tiny hair-like cells (not shown) in the cochlea 120 to vibrate. These vibrations are converted into electrical impulses. These electrical impulses are transmitted to neural pathways in the hearing center of the brain, resulting in the perception of sound.

[0016] The hearing aid 122 may be fixedly inserted through the eardrum 114 so that its one or more energy sources (e.g., batteries) can be recharged using the wireless charging device 142. The charging device 142 may be inserted into the ear canal 112, through the outer ear 110, like the hearing aid 122, and for wirelessly transferring energy to and powering the hearing aid 122 implanted therein. Additionally, the charging device 142 may wirelessly communicate with the hearing aid 122 and communicate one or more wireless command signals thereto. In certain embodiments, the hearing aid 122 communicates its power level (e.g., charging state) and / or the execution of one or more commands communicated by the wireless charging device 142 audibly to the user. For example, the hearing aid 122 may generate audible tones to inform the user of low charge levels, full charge levels, volume levels, and / or adjustments and activation and / or deactivation (e.g., power on or power off) of the hearing aid 122.

[0017] As described in more detail below, the charging device 142 typically includes one or more light emitting components (e.g., light sources) for optically connecting with and transferring energy in the form of light to the hearing aid 122. As a result, the hearing aid 122 typically includes one or more photovoltaic (PV) assemblies (e.g., light receiving surfaces or cells) for receiving the light emitted from the charging device 142 and converting the light into electricity using semiconductor materials that exhibit the photovoltaic effect.

[0018] Light emitting systems and devices 2A-2B show schematic cross-sectional views of a light source assembly 200 and a light source 210 of a wireless charging device 142, respectively. The light source assembly 200 is generally disposed on the distal end of the charging device 142. It may include an earpiece or an auditory insert configured to be easily inserted into and removed from the ear canal. The ability to insert and remove the charging device 142 from the ear canal allows for charging / recharging and / or cleaning of the charging device 142 itself. In operation, the light source assembly 200 may be disposed at a distance of about 30 cm or less from a receiver such as a photovoltaic cell of the hearing aid 122. For example, when the charging device 142 is inserted into or near the ear canal, the light source assembly 200 may be disposed at a distance between about 2 mm and about 30 mm from the hearing aid 122, for example, between about 10 mm and about 20 mm from the hearing aid 122. In certain embodiments, the light source assembly 200 is positioned from the hearing aid 122 at a distance substantially equal to the length of the user's ear canal. As used herein, the term "distal" refers to the portion of the light emitting assembly, hearing aid, or support device that is closest to the cochlea when inserted into the ear canal, or the direction toward the cochlea. The term "proximal" refers to the portion of the light emitting assembly or hearing aid that is furthest from the cochlea when inserted into the ear canal, or the direction away from the cochlea.

[0019] As depicted in FIG. 2A , the light source assembly 200 includes at least one light source 210 disposed on a light-reflective substrate holder 220 and sealed within an encapsulant 230. In certain embodiments, multiple light sources 210 are disposed in one or more arrays on the light-reflective substrate holder 220 and sealed within the encapsulant 230. In operation, the substrate holder 220 reflects any light emitted radially and / or proximally from the light source 210 distally through the encapsulant 230, thus allowing the most light to be delivered to the hearing aid 122 within the ear canal. As a result, the substrate holder 220 may be formed from a thin reflective film of aluminum, silver, chromium, and other suitable metals with a cup-like configuration around each light source 210. In certain embodiments, the substrate holder 220 is formed from multiple layers of materials with different optical properties, such as titanium dioxide and silicon dioxide, forming a Bragg mirror structure. The encapsulant 230 is formed from any suitable optically clear material, including but not limited to, epoxy and polyurethane resins, to protect the light source 210 while allowing the transmission of light therethrough. The light source assembly 200 further includes two terminals 240 and 250 disposed through the encapsulant 230 and electrically connected to the at least one light source 210. The terminals 240 and 250 are positive and negative current drive terminals, respectively, which allow current to be applied to the light source 210 to activate it.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the light source assembly 200 also includes one or more secondary optics, such as a lens 260, for manipulating the light emission distribution of the light source 210. Typically, the lens 260 focuses or collimates the light from the one or more light sources 210 in a distal direction to improve delivery of the light to the hearing aid 122. In certain embodiments, the lens 260 creates a light field having a diameter of about 1 cm or more to illuminate the entire ear canal, thus ensuring that the hearing aid 122 is within the propagation path of the light source assembly 200. In certain embodiments, the lens 260 is configured to focus the emitted light onto a focal plane located at a distance between about 1 mm and about 30 mm, e.g., between about 5 mm and about 25 mm, e.g., between about 10 mm and about 20 mm, e.g., about 15 mm, from the light source assembly 200. To accommodate for patient-to-patient differences in ear canal length, the light propagation characteristics of the lens 260 may be adjustable.

[0021] Each light source 210 generally emits incoherent light having a wavelength that corresponds to a wavelength band of high light reflectance by the eardrum and other surfaces in the ear canal, thus allowing multiple reflections and optimal capture of indirectly scattered light by the hearing aid 122. For example, the light sources 210 may include light emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to emit light having a wavelength in the range of about 400 nm to about 1100 nm, e.g., in the range of about 400 nm to about 870 nm, e.g., about 800 nm. In certain embodiments, the light sources 210 include GaAs, GaAsB, GaAsC, GaAsD, GaAsE, GaAsE, GaAsF ... x Al (1-x) In certain other embodiments, the light source 210 includes a narrow wavelength light source, such as an As type LED, where x is between about 0.5 and about 1. In certain other embodiments, the light source 210 includes a multi-wavelength light source, such as a white light LED. It is further contemplated that the peak wavelength of the light source 210 is generally between about 25 nm and 75 nm, below the peak absorption of the light receiving PV cells of the hearing aid 122. For example, the peak wavelength of the light source 210 may be about 50 nm, below the peak absorption of the PV cells of the hearing aid 122.

[0022] Although described above as an LED, the light source 210 of the light source assembly 200 may include any suitable type of light source that illuminates the PV assembly of the hearing aid 122 while also having a low power density to avoid uncomfortably heating the patient's ear canal. For example, the light source may have a maximum power dissipation of about 120 mW or less. Other suitable types of light sources include incandescent lamps and coherent light sources, such as laser-based light sources.

[0023] An exemplary structure of an LED-type light source 210 is depicted in FIG. 2B. The light source 210 depicted in FIG. 2B is a high spectral purity, high efficiency resonant cavity LED (RCLED) that includes an active region 276 disposed between a number of n-type semiconductor layers 270 and a number of p-type semiconductor layers 280, thus forming a double heterostructure. The heterostructure of the LED-type light source 210 is stacked between an n+ (very heavily doped n-type) substrate 290 and a p+ GaAs layer 292 adjacent to metal contacts 294 for connecting to the terminals 240, 250. In a particular embodiment, the active region 276 is made of GaInP, AlGaAs, and / or AlGaAs to capture charge carriers injected therein and improve the recombination of electrons and holes for photon emission. (1-x) Ga xThe layers 270, 280 may include one or more cladding layers 272, 282 formed from GaAs adjacent to the active region 276 to improve confinement of charge carriers within the active region 276. In certain embodiments, the layers 270, 280 may further include one or more Bragg reflector layers 274, 284 to increase the optical output power of the light source 210. Although not depicted here, it is further contemplated that the light source 210 may also be a surface mounted device LED (SMD LED) having an LED chip with a phosphor layer disposed within a flat-top lens mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). Additionally, while an exemplary embodiment of the light source 210 is described with reference to FIG. 2B, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the light source 210 may be optimized by adjusting the composition and structure of its various components and / or layers.

[0024] Photovoltaic Systems and Devices 3A-3B show schematic cross-sectional views of a photovoltaic (or PV) assembly 300 and a PV cell 310 of the hearing aid 122, respectively. The PV assembly 300 is typically placed proximal to the hearing aid 122, within the ear canal, to avoid interference with the sound detection and amplification functions of the hearing aid 122, while optically connecting with the charging device 142. As depicted in FIG. 3A, the PV assembly typically includes at least one PV cell 310 that electrically connects with the power input of the hearing aid 122 via positive and negative leads 340 and 350, respectively. In certain embodiments, the PV assembly 300 includes multiple PV cells 310 arranged in one or more arrays. For example, multiple PV cells 310 may be split and separated so that they can be connected in a serial configuration for higher voltage output, thus eliminating the need for a DC-DC converter and reducing the associated DC-DC up-conversion losses.

[0025] Typically, each PV cell 310 is a single or multiple junction (e.g., double junction, triple junction) semiconductor device configured to absorb light energy generated by the charging device 142, convert it directly into electricity, and power the hearing aid 122. The use of multiple junctions may increase the energy absorption and / or conversion characteristics of the PV cell 310. In a particular embodiment, the output voltage of a single junction GaAs PV is between about 0.2V and about 0.9V, depending on the current density, and the output power is between about 10mW and about 80mW. The PV cell 310 may be optimized for the absorption of either broad or narrow wavelength light, e.g., achromatic or monochromatic light. In a particular embodiment, the PV cell 310 absorbs light energy emitted by the charging device 142 and reflected by the skin in the ear canal. For example, the light source 210 and the PV cell 310 may each emit and absorb light having a wavelength corresponding to an optimal skin reflectance, such as about 800 nm. At 800 nm, surfaces within the ear canal, such as those of the eardrum, have high reflectance (0.8), low absorption (0.1), and low transmission (0.1), thus allowing optimal transmission of light energy within the ear canal.

[0026] An exemplary structure of a PV cell 310 according to an embodiment of the disclosure is depicted in FIG. 3B. As shown, the PV cell 310 is a GaAs-based PV cell formed on a thinned N+ GaAs substrate 390, and thus has a low mass and small profile. An n-type Bragg reflector layer 370, an n-type base layer 372, a thin p-type emitter layer 382, ​​and a p-type window layer 384 are stacked on the substrate 390. Like the substrate 390, the base layer 372 and emitter layer 782 may be formed of GaAs, while the window layer 784 is formed of Al. 1-x3B, the PV cell 310 is formed of p+GaAs. In certain embodiments, the PV cell 310 further includes a p+GaAs capping layer 386 formed on the window layer 784. Generally, the bandgap of the active layer of the PV cell 310 closely matches the bandgap of the active layer of the light source 210 for optimal energy transfer therebetween. Although an exemplary embodiment of the PV cell 310 is described with reference to FIG. 3B, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the PV cell 310 may be optimized by adjusting the composition and structure of its various components or layers.

[0027] As discussed above, the PV assembly 300 is generally positioned within the ear canal proximal to the hearing aid 122 in an arrangement that avoids interference with the sound detection and amplification functions of the hearing aid 122. Figures 4A and 4B show an exemplary arrangement of the PV assembly 300 on the hearing aid 122 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In the embodiment depicted in Figure 4A, the hearing aid 122 includes a proximal end 410 consisting of at least two tilted converging surfaces 420a and 420b that are positioned at an angle relative to a primary axis A of the hearing aid 122, thus forming a wedge-like shape. In certain embodiments, the tilted surfaces 420a and 420b may be positioned at substantially equal angles relative to the primary axis A. In certain other embodiments, the tilted surfaces 420a and 420b may be positioned at substantially different angles relative to the primary axis A. Generally, a microphone 430 or other sound sensing device is disposed on a first angled surface 420a, while one or more PV assemblies 300 are disposed on a second angled surface 420b. Due to the angled nature of angled surfaces 420a and 420b, both the microphone 430 and the PV assembly 300 can be aligned to receive direct and indirect (e.g., reflected) acoustic and light energy from the ear canal.

[0028] In an alternative embodiment depicted in Fig. 4B, the proximal end 410 of the hearing aid 122 has a substantially cylindrical shape and a proximal surface 440 that is substantially perpendicular to the main axis A of the hearing aid 122. Either the microphone 430 or one or more PV assemblies 300 may be disposed on the proximal surface 440 (microphone 430 is shown in Fig. 4b), while the other is disposed along a circumferential surface 450 centered on the hearing aid 122. Thus, either the microphone 430 or the PV assembly 300 may directly receive acoustic or light energy, while the other indirectly receives acoustic or light energy reflected by the surface of the ear canal. As previously mentioned, one or more PV cells 310 of the PV assembly 300 may absorb light energy emitted by the charging device 142 and reflected by the skin in the ear canal, such as light having a wavelength of about 800 nm.

[0029] In addition to transmitting light energy, the charging device 142 may be further configured to wirelessly transmit one or more types of communication signals to the hearing aid 122 for wireless communication between the charging device 142 and the hearing aid 122. In certain embodiments, the hearing aid 122 may be configured to transmit modulated signals to the hearing aid 122 to relay desired commands thereto. Examples of commands communicated between the charging device 142 and the hearing aid 122 may include commands to power on and off the hearing aid 122, or to turn its volume up or down.

[0030] Hearing Inserts and External Support Devices The present disclosure further contemplates a charging device 142 that includes an auditory insert or external support device for securing the light source assembly 200 at or near the ear canal. Generally, during recharging of the hearing aid 122, it is desired that the light source assembly 200 (and thus the one or more light sources 210) be secured in close proximity to and facing the one or more PV assemblies 300 of the hearing aid 122.

[0031] 5A-5B show an exemplary hearing insert 500 for placing the light source assembly 200 near the eardrum 114 to provide a clear, direct, high-low line from the light source assembly 200 to the hearing aid 122. In certain embodiments, the light source assembly 200 is connected to a distal end 510 of the hearing insert 500 inserted into the user's ear canal 112, while the proximal end 520 is configured to be placed in the conchal recess, the intertragic notch, behind the tragus, or around the entrance of the ear canal 112. In certain embodiments, the proximal end 520 further provides a port for connecting to a power source for charging the charging device 142. The distal end 510 is shaped to fit within and across at least a portion of the user's ear canal 112, for example, between about ½ and about ⅔ of the length of the ear canal 112, ensuring that anatomical features or kinks in the ear canal 112 do not impede light from the light source assembly 200. Additionally, the hearing insert 500 may have a channel formed through its length (e.g., from the proximal to the distal end of the hearing insert 500) so as not to interfere with the hearing of a user wearing the hearing insert 500.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the auditory insert 500 is custom profiled via ear impressions or 3D imaging to match the shape of the ear canal 112 of a particular user and therefore custom fit. In such embodiments, the auditory insert 500 may be formed from a relatively rigid material such as acrylates and / or methacrylates. In certain other embodiments, the auditory insert 500 has a universal fit and does not require custom profiling, and therefore is formed from a suitable malleable or flexible material to match the twist and length of the ear canal 112. Examples of suitable malleable materials include polymers such as rubber and silicone, polyurethane, foams, advanced plastics, and the like. In certain examples, the auditory insert 500 may be crushed by the user prior to insertion into the ear canal 112. The auditory insert 500 may then expand and occlude the ear canal 112. In certain embodiments, the auditory insert 500 is formed from an optically clear or translucent material to allow light to pass therethrough.

[0033] In addition to the hearing insert 500, the present disclosure also contemplates the charging device 142 including other types of external support devices for securing or placing the light source assembly 200 at or near the ear canal. External support devices are typically placed near the ear canal, over the ear, around the ear, or near the user's head. Exemplary external support devices include ear buds, ear muffs, clips over the ear, eyeglass temple clips, headbands, and a variety of devices that can be placed near the ear canal, over the ear, around the ear, on or near the user's head to allow interaction between the light source assembly 200 and the PV assembly 300 of the hearing aid 122.

[0034] FIG. 6 illustrates one such external support device in the form of an earmuff 600 for securing and stabilizing the light source assembly 200 at or near a user's ear canal. As shown, the earmuff 600 includes a headband 610 that connects to two ear cups 620 at opposite ends thereof. At least one ear cup 620 has the light source assembly 200 disposed therein. When worn, the ear cup 620 is placed over the user's outer ear (e.g., over the recess of the concha). Thus, the light source assembly 200 is placed near the entrance of the user's ear canal for recharging the hearing aid 122. In certain embodiments, the light source assembly 200 may be disposed within a removable pod 640 for easy insertion and removal from the earmuff 600. The earmuff 600 also includes a USB port 630 for universal serial bus (USB) charging of the earmuff 600.

[0035] 7A-7D show another exemplary external support device in the form of a headband 700. The headband 700 includes at least one pouch 710 disposed on its interior or exterior for securing the light source assembly 200 near the ear canal of a user when worn over the user's outer ear. As with the earmuffs 600, the pouch 710 may be configured to receive the light source assembly 200 within the pod 640 for easy insertion and removal therefrom. The headband 700 is generally formed from any suitable material, including a fabric material or a polymeric material such as silicone, for user comfort. In certain embodiments, the headband 700 is a stand-alone device. In certain other embodiments, the headband 700 is further integrated into another piece of headwear, such as a hat or skull cap 720, for a user to wear while using the charging device 142.

[0036] 8A-8C show an exemplary temple clip 800 for securing the light source assembly 200 at or near a user's ear canal. As depicted therein, the temple clip 800 slides over or is attached to (e.g., clipped to) the temples 820 of a pair of eyeglasses 810 during use. When not in use, the temple clip 800 may be removed from the eyeglasses 810 and connected to a charging dock 830 having a USB port 840 for charging / recharging the temple clip 800. The temple clip 800 is generally formed from any suitable material, including a polymeric material such as silicone.

[0037] As an alternative to the temple clip 800, Fig. 9 illustrates an exemplary eyeglass frame 900 having a light source assembly 200 integrated therein. As shown, one or both temples 920 of the eyeglass frame 900 have a protrusion 930 extending therefrom and configured to receive the light source assembly 200. When worn, the protrusion 930 extends over the ear to place the light source assembly 200 at or near the user's ear canal. Like the earmuff 600, the eyeglass frame 900 may have a USB port for USB charging / recharging of the eyeglass frame 900 when not in use.

[0038] 10A-10B show exemplary concha devices 1000 and 1001 for placing the light source assembly 200 at or near the ear canal while being substantially within the cavity of the concha of a user's ear (e.g., the concha cavity). Generally, the concha devices 1000 and 1001 include a base 1010 connected to a fitting 1020. The concha device 1001 further includes a stem 1030 for allowing the user to easily handle it. The base 1010 houses the light source assembly 200 and any corresponding circuitry and is located outside the ear canal during use while the fitting 1020 is configured to fit into the ear canal and secure (e.g., anchor) the device to the user's ear. Similar to the hearing insert 500, the fitting 1020 may be formed from any suitable malleable or flexible material, including polymers such as rubber and silicone, polyurethane, foam, and / or advanced plastics, to conform to the kinks of the ear canal. As a result, the fitting 1020 may be crushed by the user prior to insertion into the ear canal. The fitting 1020 may then expand and occlude the ear canal. In certain embodiments, the material of the fitting 1020 is optically transparent or translucent, allowing light to pass therethrough. In certain embodiments, the fitting 1020 has cavities or channels formed therein to allow the transmission of light from the light source assembly 200 to the hearing aid 122.

[0039] 11, 12A-12B, and 13A-13B show additional components that may be utilized in combination with the above-described concha devices 1000 and 1001. In FIG. 11, the concha device 1000 removably connects to temples 1110 of a headband 1100. This may further include a USB port 1120 for USB charging / recharging of the headband 1100 and / or the concha device 1000. The headband 1100 provides additional support to secure the concha device 1000 to the recess of the concha during its use. As depicted in FIGS. 12A-12B, either the concha device 1000 or 1001 may be further secured to a neckband 1200 by a cable 1210. The neckband 1200 is configured to be supported by tension on the neck of a user. This provides an anchoring point for the concha devices 1000 and 1001 to prevent the user from dropping or losing the device. Figures 13A-13B depict a portable modular charging unit 1300 for the concha devices 1000. The charging unit 1300 includes a charging base 1310 having a USB port 1320 for USB charging / recharging of one or more of the concha devices 1000. In use, the concha devices 1000 may be anchored to opposing sides of the charging base 1310 by any suitable means, including mechanical or magnetic mechanisms. In certain embodiments, the charging units 1300 also include one or more caps 1330 that attach them to the charging base 1310 or the concha devices 1000 and cover the concha devices 1000 when anchored to the base 1310. In certain embodiments, one or more caps 1330 are further connected to a key chain 1340 or other tethering device for attachment to other devices.

[0040] 14A-14B, 15A-15B, and 16A-16B show further examples of external support devices for securing light source assembly 200 at or near a user's ear canal. In FIGS. 14A-14B, 15A-15B, and 16A-16B, light source assembly 200 is connected to the distal ends of ear cuffs 1400, 1500, and 1600, respectively, which surround or encase various features of the outer ear for support. For example, ear cuff 1400 surrounds the upper helix 1410 of the ear and extends down through the crus 1412 of the helix to the entrance of the ear canal 112, where it secures light source assembly 200. The ear cuff 1500, on the one hand, encases a portion of the lower helix 1416 and extends from there to the entrance of the ear canal 1214, thus extending through the lower antihelix 1418 and the conchal cavity 1426. Alternatively, the ear cuff 1600 includes two arms 1610, which encase a portion of the upper helix 1410 and a portion of the lower helix 1416, cover the conchal cavity 1426 and converge in a direction towards the ear canal 112. The light source assembly 200 may now be attached.

[0041] 17A-17B show yet another external support device in the form of a triangular earpiece 1700. The triangular earpiece 1700 includes three apexes 1710, 1720, and 1730 that are inserted into the crease of the upper helix 1410, the lower helix 1416, and behind the tragus 1420 of the user's ear. The triangular earpiece 1700 is thus fully supported therebetween by its tension. As depicted here, the light source assembly 200 is positioned at the apex 1730 that is supported behind the tragus 1420, thereby placing the light source assembly 200 at or near the entrance of the ear canal 112.

[0042] In Figs. 18A-18B, the light source assembly 200 is connected to an ear bracelet 1800, which may surround the inner part of the pinna 1422 or the outer ear, where it is attached to the user's head. In use, the portion of the ear bracelet 1800 supporting the light source assembly 200 may be pulled around the tragus 1420, such that the ear bracelet 1800 is secured there by the tension. In Figs. 19A-19B, the light source assembly 200 is connected to the backside of a piercing 1900, such as an earring stud, that passes through the tragus 1420. As a result, the piercing 1900 provides a secure attachment point for the light source assembly 200 near the ear canal 112, while taking up minimal space in the user's ear.

[0043] 20A-20B show another exemplary external support device in the form of an ear cap 2000 that may function similarly to a sleeve. The ear cap 2000 is generally configured to slide over the pinna 1422 and position the light source assembly 200, which may be supported within its pouch, adjacent the ear canal 112. The ear cap 2000 may be formed from any suitable malleable material, including fabric or silicone.

[0044] 21A-21B, the light source assembly is attached to an S-shaped ear wrap 2100. The top of the s-shaped ear wrap 2100 hooks around the top of the pinna 1422, crosses it, and extends through the tragus 1420. The light source assembly 200 is attached here and directed towards the ear canal 112. Like its top, the bottom of the s-shaped ear wrap 2100 hooks around the bottom of the pinna 1422, such as the ear lobe 1424, providing additional support and stability to the s-shaped ear wrap 2100.

[0045] 22A-22B show another exemplary external support device in the form of an ear hook assembly 2200. The ear hook assembly 2200 generally includes an ear hook 2210 extending from a base 2220 that houses or connects to the light source assembly 200. In certain embodiments, the base 222 is an ear cup (e.g., an ear muff cup) that is placed over a portion of the ear, including the entrance to the ear canal 112, similar to the ear muff 600 described above. In certain other embodiments, the base 2220 is a concha device that is placed within the recess 1426 of the concha, similar to the concha device 1000. In operation, the ear hook 2210 slides over the top of the concha 1422 and rests behind the ear, while the base 2220 is placed over the entrance to the ear canal 112, stabilizing the light source assembly 200 at or near the ear canal 112.

[0046] conclusion In summary, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide an improved charging and recharging system for hearing aids implanted in or near the ear canal, such as those implanted through the eardrum. The disclosed system utilizes a photovoltaic device that efficiently generates power for the implant from artificially generated light that travels through the ear canal, thus eliminating the need for an external implant power source or charging components. Furthermore, the disclosed system provides a compact, wireless light-emitting device that may be worn in or near the ear canal during recharging, thus allowing the user to engage in other activities without significant interference therewith. As a result, the disclosed system allows for the implantation of hearing aids that are more compact, more comfortable, and less aesthetically disturbing.

[0047] While the forgoing is directed to embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments of the present disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, the scope of which is specified by the following claims.

Claims

1. 1. A rechargeable hearing aid system including a hearing aid configured to be implanted through the eardrum, said hearing aid comprising: a proximal end having a substantially cylindrical shape and further having a proximal surface substantially perpendicular to a major axis of the hearing aid; a photovoltaic (PV) cell disposed at the proximal end and configured to receive and convert light into stored electricity for powering the hearing aid; Rechargeable energy sources and Including, the rechargeable hearing aid system further includes a charging device configured to be inserted at or near the entrance of the ear canal of the ear; the charging device includes one or more light sources configured to emit light that can be received by the PV cell to recharge the rechargeable energy source; A rechargeable hearing aid system, wherein the one or more light sources have a peak wavelength that is approximately 50 nm less than the peak absorption of the one or more PV cells.

2. 2. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1, further comprising a microphone disposed at the proximal end and configured to receive and convert sound into an electrical signal, the microphone being disposed on the proximal surface and the PV cell being disposed on a periphery of the proximal end.

3. 2. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1, further comprising a microphone disposed at the proximal end and configured to receive and convert sound into an electrical signal, the microphone being disposed on a periphery of the proximal end and the PV cell being disposed on the proximal surface.

4. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1 , wherein the PV cell comprises a GaAs-based PV cell.

5. 10. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises a light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light having a wavelength of about 400 nm to about 1100 nm.

6. 2. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1, wherein the charging device is further configured to send command signals to the hearing aid, the command signals including one or more of a command to power on the hearing aid, a command to power off the hearing aid, and a command to adjust the volume of the hearing aid.

7. 10. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 1, wherein the hearing aid is configured to generate an audible signal to indicate a power level of the hearing aid.

8. 8. A rechargeable hearing aid system according to claim 7, wherein the hearing aid is configured to generate audible signals to indicate one or more of the following: a low charge level of the hearing aid, a full charge level of the hearing aid, a volume level and / or an adjustment of the volume level, activation of the hearing aid, and deactivation of the hearing aid.

9. 1. A rechargeable hearing aid system including a hearing aid configured to be implanted through the eardrum, said hearing aid comprising: a proximal end having a plurality of angled and converging surfaces; a photovoltaic (PV) cell disposed on one of the inclined converging surfaces and configured to receive and convert light into stored electricity for powering the hearing aid; Rechargeable energy sources and Including, the rechargeable hearing aid system further includes a charging device configured to be inserted at or near the entrance of the ear canal of the ear; the charging device includes one or more light sources configured to emit light that can be received by the PV cell to recharge the rechargeable energy source; A rechargeable hearing aid system, wherein the one or more light sources have a peak wavelength that is approximately 50 nm less than the peak absorption of the one or more PV cells.

10. 10. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 9, further comprising a microphone disposed at the proximal end and configured to receive and convert sound into an electrical signal, the microphone being disposed on another of the plurality of sloping, converging surfaces.

11. 11. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 10, wherein the one surface and the other surface of the plurality of inclined converging surfaces are disposed at substantially equal angles relative to a major axis of the hearing aid.

12. 11. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 10, wherein the one surface and the other surface of the plurality of inclined converging surfaces are disposed at substantially different angles relative to a major axis of the hearing aid.

13. 10. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 9, wherein the PV cell comprises a GaAs-based PV cell.

14. 10. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 9, wherein the light source comprises a light emitting diode (LED) configured to emit light having a wavelength of about 400 nm to about 1100 nm.

15. the charging device is further configured to send command signals to the hearing aid; 10. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 9, wherein the command signals include one or more of a command to power on the hearing aid, a command to power off the hearing aid, and a command to adjust the volume of the hearing aid.

16. 10. The rechargeable hearing aid system of claim 9, wherein the hearing aid is configured to generate an audible signal to indicate the power level of the hearing aid.

17. 17. A rechargeable hearing aid system according to claim 16, wherein the hearing aid is configured to generate audible signals to indicate one or more of: a low charge level of the hearing aid, a full charge level of the hearing aid, a volume level and / or an adjustment of the volume level, activation of the hearing aid, and deactivation of the hearing aid.

18. 1. A rechargeable hearing aid system including a hearing aid configured to be fixedly implanted through the tympanic membrane of an ear, said hearing aid comprising: a proximal end having a plurality of surfaces; a photovoltaic (PV) cell disposed on at least one of the surfaces of the proximal end and configured to receive and convert light into stored electricity for powering the hearing aid; a microphone disposed on at least one of the surfaces of the proximal end and configured to receive and convert sound into an electrical signal; Rechargeable energy sources and Including, the rechargeable hearing aid system further includes a charging device configured to be inserted at or near the entrance of the ear canal of the ear; the charging device includes one or more light sources configured to emit light that can be received by the PV cell to recharge the rechargeable energy source; A rechargeable hearing aid system, wherein the one or more light sources have a peak wavelength that is approximately 50 nm less than the peak absorption of the one or more PV cells.

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