External auditory canal pressure regulation system

Abstract

To provide a device for regulating external auditory canal pressure. [Solution] An ear canal pressure adjustment device comprising an earphone having a body flow generator and a first axial earphone conduit fluidly coupled to the fluid flow generator, wherein the earphone has a flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the ear canal as a barrier between ear canal pressure and ambient pressure. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, an ear canal pressure adjustment device is provided having a fluid flow generator capable of generating a pressure difference between ear canal pressure and ambient pressure.

Description

Background Art

[0001] This patent application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty is a partial continuation application of U.S. non-provisional patent application No. 14 / 316,668, filed on June 26, 2014, and claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No. 61 / 983,865, filed on April 24, 2014, and U.S. provisional patent application No. 61 / 841,ll1, filed on June 28, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Pain or discomfort associated with a disorder, including a neuro-mediated disorder such as craniofacial pain syndrome or headache syndrome, can have an adverse effect on the quality of life of an affected person. In addition to the individual burden, chronic neurological symptoms can represent a significant distortion to families, employers, and the healthcare system.

[0003] With respect to migraine, associated symptoms such as pain, nausea, aura, photophobia, paresthesia, dizziness, spatial disorientation, and balance disorders can represent a significant burden to the general population. Epidemiological studies indicate that in the United States, approximately 18% of women and 6% of men experience frequent migraine, and 2% of the general population is troubled by chronic migraine. In addition, individuals troubled by chronic migraine or other headaches of similar severity and disability can have a significantly higher risk of depression and suicide attempts. Therefore, it is prudent for clinicians and researchers to continue to search for effective devices and methods to relieve the symptoms associated with these disorders or to treat the disorders.

[0004] Standard pharmacological treatments for migraines can generally be prescribed to prevent or alleviate pain. Various medications within these two broad categories exhibit a wide range of efficacy, but can also cause a variety of side effects. From an economic standpoint, the cost of these medications can be a major financial burden on consumers. Furthermore, advanced interventions such as botulinum toxin injections, nerve blockers, neurosurgical alterations, and implantable electrical stimulators can significantly increase the costs associated with treatment, while exposing patients to potential structural and physiological changes with no guarantee of safety or permanent symptom relief or disability resolution.

[0005] An emerging field of understanding and application in neuroscience exists that seeks to induce positive physiological changes in the nervous system through non-pharmacological and non-surgical applications. This field, "functional neurology," views the human nervous system as a receptor-driven system that can be activated and stimulated in specific ways and lead to adaptive long-term changes through the process of neuroplasticity. This approach to neurorehabilitation utilizes various forms and patterns of receptor activation or deactivation to promote positive neurophysiological adaptations within the central nervous system, including the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord, which may, though not necessarily, enhance the physiological function of associated tissues, organs, and systems.

[0006] There would be substantial merit in providing a device or method capable of generating one or more stimuli that can alleviate one or more symptoms associated with disorders such as craniofacial pain syndrome or headache syndrome, or treat one or more disorders. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A broader object of a particular embodiment of the present invention may be to provide an ear canal pressure adjustment device comprising a fluid flow generator capable of generating a fluid flow, and an earphone having an axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the earphone and a second end of the earphone, wherein the axial earphone conduit is fluidly coupled to the fluid flow generator, and the earphone has a flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the ear canal as a barrier between the ear canal pressure and ambient pressure.

[0008] Another broader object of a particular embodiment of the present invention may be to provide an ear canal pressure adjustment device having a fluid flow generator capable of generating a pressure difference between ear canal pressure and ambient pressure.

[0009] Another broader object of a particular embodiment of the present invention may be to provide an ear canal pressure adjustment device having a fluid flow generator capable of generating pressure difference amplitude oscillations that alternately drive the fluid flow between a first direction of fluid flow and a second direction of fluid flow within an axial earphone conduit.

[0010] Another broader object of a particular embodiment of the present invention may be to provide an ear canal pressure adjustment device that includes a fluid flow temperature regulator fluid-coupled between a fluid flow generator and an axial earphone conduit, the fluid flow temperature regulator being operable to adjust the fluid flow temperature of the fluid flow.

[0011] Another broader object of a particular embodiment of the present invention may be to provide an ear canal pressure adjustment device comprising a fluid flow generator capable of generating a fluid flow, and a plurality of earphones, each having an axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the earphone and a second end of the earphone, each axial earphone conduit being fluidly coupled to the fluid flow generator, and each earphone having a flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the ear canal of the ear as a barrier between ear canal pressure and ambient pressure.

[0012] Another broader object of a particular embodiment of the present invention could be to provide an ear canal pressure adjustment device comprising a plurality of fluid flow generators capable of generating a plurality of corresponding fluid flows, and a plurality of earphones, each having an axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the earphone and a second end of the earphone, each axial earphone conduit being fluidly coupled to a fluid flow generator, and each earphone having a flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the ear canal as a barrier between the ear canal pressure and ambient pressure.

[0013] Another broader object of a particular embodiment of the present invention could be to provide an ear canal pressure regulating device comprising a memory element and a processor communicating with the memory element, wherein the memory element contains executable computer code to regulate the operation of one or more fluid flow generators.

[0014] Another broader object of a particular embodiment of the present invention could be to provide an auditory canal pressure adjustment device having computer code executable to provide a transceiver controller that communicates with a transceiver that is wirelessly connectable to a controller device located away from the auditory canal pressure adjustment device.

[0015] Naturally, further objects of the present invention are disclosed throughout the rest of the specification, the drawings, and the claims as a whole. This specification also provides, for example, the following items: (Item 1) An external auditory canal pressure adjustment device, A first fluid flow generator capable of generating a first fluid flow, A first earphone having a first axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the first earphone and a second end of the first earphone, wherein the first axial earphone conduit is fluidly coupled to a first fluid flow generator, and the first earphone has a first flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the first ear canal of the first ear as a first barrier between the pressure of the first ear canal and ambient pressure, A device equipped with the following features. (Item 2) The device according to item 1, wherein the first fluid flow generator generates the first fluid flow between the first fluid flow generator and the first axial earphone conduit, and the first fluid flow has a first fluid volume in the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 3) The device according to item 2, wherein the first fluid volume comprises a first pre-selected fluid volume within the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 4) The device according to item 3, wherein the first pre-selected fluid volume is selected from one or more of the group consisting of 0 milliliters to about 2 milliliters, about 1 milliliter to about 3 milliliters, about 2 milliliters to about 4 milliliters, about 3 milliliters to about 5 milliliters, about 4 milliliters to about 6 milliliters, about 5 milliliters to about 7 milliliters, about 6 milliliters to about 8 milliliters, about 7 milliliters to about 9 milliliters, about 8 milliliters to about 10 milliliters, about 9 milliliters to about 11 milliliters, about 10 milliliters to about 12 milliliters, about 11 milliliters to about 13 milliliters, about 12 milliliters to about 14 milliliters, about 13 milliliters to about 15 milliliters, about 14 milliliters to about 16 milliliters, about 15 milliliters to about 17 milliliters, about 16 milliliters to about 18 milliliters, about 17 milliliters to about 19 milliliters, and about 18 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 5) The device according to item 1, wherein the first fluid flow generator is capable of generating a first pressure difference between the first external auditory canal pressure and the ambient pressure. (Item 6) The device according to item 5, wherein the first pressure difference has a first pressure difference amplitude in the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 7) The device according to item 6, wherein the first pressure difference amplitude comprises a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude within the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 8) The first pre-selected pressure difference amplitudes are 0 kilopascals to approximately 5 kilopascals, approximately 2.5 kilopascals to approximately 7.5 kilopascals, approximately 5 kilopascals to approximately 10 kilopascals, approximately 7.5 kilopascals to approximately 12.5 kilopascals, approximately 10 kilopascals to approximately 15 kilopascals, approximately 12.5 kilopascals to approximately 17.5 kilopascals, approximately 15 kilopascals to approximately 20 kilopascals, approximately 17.5 kilopascals to approximately 22.5 kilopascals, approximately 20 kilopascals to approximately 25 kilopascals, approximately 22.5 kilopascals to approximately 27.5 kilopascals, and approximately 25 A device as described in item 7, selected from one or more of the group consisting of kilopascals to about 30 kilopascals, about 27.5 kilopascals to about 32.5 kilopascals, about 30 kilopascals to about 35 kilopascals, about 32.5 kilopascals to about 37.5 kilopascals, about 35 kilopascals to about 40 kilopascals, about 37.5 kilopascals to about 42.5 kilopascals, about 40 kilopascals to about 45 kilopascals, about 42.5 kilopascals to about 47.5 kilopascals, and about 45 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 9) The first pressure difference amplitude selection element, A first fluid flow generator controller adjusts the operation of the first fluid flow generator in response to the operation of the first pressure difference amplitude selection element to achieve the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude, The device described in item 7, which further includes the features described therein. (Item 10) The device according to item 7, wherein the first fluid flow generator is capable of generating a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation that alternately drives the first fluid flow between a first direction of the first fluid flow and a second direction of the first fluid flow within the first axial earphone conduit. (Item 11) The device according to item 10, wherein the first pressure difference amplitude oscillator has a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency in the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. (Item 12) The device according to item 11, wherein the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comprises a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency within the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. (Item 13) The first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies are 0 Hz to approximately 1 Hz, approximately 0.5 Hz to approximately 1.5 Hz, approximately 1 Hz to approximately 2 Hz, approximately 1.5 Hz to approximately 2.5 Hz, approximately 2 Hz to approximately 3 Hz, approximately 2.5 Hz to approximately 3.5 Hz, approximately 3 Hz to approximately 4 Hz, approximately 3.5 Hz to approximately 4.5 Hz, approximately 4 Hz to approximately 5 Hz, approximately 4.5 Hz to approximately 5.5 Hz, and approximately 5 Hz. A device as described in item 12, selected from one or more of the group consisting of Hz to approximately 6 Hz, approximately 5.5 Hz to approximately 6.5 Hz, approximately 6 Hz to approximately 7 Hz, approximately 6.5 Hz to approximately 7.5 Hz, approximately 7 Hz to approximately 8 Hz, approximately 7.5 Hz to approximately 8.5 Hz, approximately 8 Hz to approximately 9 Hz, approximately 8.5 Hz to approximately 9.5 Hz, and approximately 9 Hz to approximately 10 Hz. (Item 14) The device according to item 12, further comprising a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element, wherein the first fluid flow generator controller adjusts the operation of the first fluid flow generator in response to the operation of the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element to achieve the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 15) The device according to item 7, further comprising a first pressure relief valve fluidly coupled to the first axial earphone conduit, for relieving a first pressure difference exceeding a first predetermined pressure difference having a first predetermined pressure difference amplitude of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 16) A first pressure sensor that generates a first pressure sensor signal that fluctuates based on the change in the first pressure difference amplitude, A first pressure sensor signal analyzer including a first pressure difference amplitude comparator that functions to compare the first preselected pressure difference amplitude with the first pressure difference amplitude, wherein the first pressure sensor signal analyzer generates a first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal, and the first fluid flow generator controller controls the first fluid flow generator in response to the first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal to achieve the first preselected pressure difference amplitude. The device according to item 7, further comprising. (Item 17) The device according to item 16, wherein the first pressure sensor signal analyzer further includes a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator that functions to compare the first preselected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency with the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency, the first pressure sensor signal analyzer generates a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal, and the first fluid flow generator controller controls the first fluid flow generator in response to the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal to achieve the first preselected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 18) The device according to item 7, further comprising a fluid flow temperature regulator that is fluidly coupled between the first fluid flow generator and the first axial earphone duct and operates to adjust the first fluid flow temperature of the first fluid flow. (Item 19) The device according to item 18, wherein the first fluid flow temperature is within the range of about 10°C to about 50°C. (Item 20) [[ID=I7]] The device according to item 19, wherein the first fluid flow temperature has a first preselected fluid flow temperature within the range of about 10°C to about 50°C. (Item 21) The device according to item 21, wherein the first preselected fluid flow temperature is selected from one or more of the group consisting of about 10°C to about 20°C, about 15°C to about 25°C, about 20°C to about 30°C, about 25°C to about 35°C, about 30°C to about 40°C, about 35°C to about 45°C, and about 40°C to about 50°C. (Item 22) The device according to item 7, further comprising a second earphone having a second axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the second earphone and a second end of the second earphone, wherein the second axial earphone conduit is fluidly coupled to the first fluid flow generator, and the second earphone has a second flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the second ear canal of the second ear as a second barrier between the pressure of the second ear canal and the ambient pressure. (Item 23) The device according to item 22, wherein the first fluid flow generator is capable of generating a second pressure difference between the second external auditory canal pressure and the ambient pressure, the second pressure difference having a second pressure difference amplitude substantially corresponding to the first pressure difference amplitude. (Item 24) The device according to item 23, wherein the first fluid flow generator is capable of generating a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation having a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency substantially corresponding to the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 25) A second fluid flow generator capable of generating a second fluid flow, A second earphone having a second axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the second earphone and a second end of the second earphone, wherein the second axial earphone conduit is fluidly coupled to the second fluid flow generator, and the second earphone has a second flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the second ear canal of the second ear, acting as a second barrier between the pressure of the second ear canal and the ambient pressure. The device described in item 7, which further includes the features described therein. (Item 26) The device according to item 25, wherein the second fluid flow generator generates the second fluid flow between the second fluid flow generator and the second axial earphone conduit, and the second fluid flow has a second fluid volume in the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 27) The device according to item 26, wherein the second fluid volume comprises a second pre-selected fluid volume in the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 28) The device described in item 27, wherein the second pre-selected fluid volume is selected from one or more of the group consisting of 0 milliliters to about 2 milliliters, about 1 milliliter to about 3 milliliters, about 2 milliliters to about 4 milliliters, about 3 milliliters to about 5 milliliters, about 4 milliliters to about 6 milliliters, about 5 milliliters to about 7 milliliters, about 6 milliliters to about 8 milliliters, about 7 milliliters to about 9 milliliters, about 8 milliliters to about 10 milliliters, about 9 milliliters to about 11 milliliters, about 10 milliliters to about 12 milliliters, about 11 milliliters to about 13 milliliters, about 12 milliliters to about 14 milliliters, about 13 milliliters to about 15 milliliters, about 14 milliliters to about 16 milliliters, about 15 milliliters to about 17 milliliters, about 16 milliliters to about 18 milliliters, about 17 milliliters to about 19 milliliters, and about 18 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 29) The device according to item 25, wherein the second fluid flow generator is capable of generating a second pressure difference between the second external auditory canal pressure and the ambient pressure. (Item 30) The device according to item 29, wherein the second pressure difference has a second pressure difference amplitude in the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 31) The device according to item 30, wherein the second pressure difference amplitude is a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude within the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 32) The second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude is 0 kilopascals to approximately 5 kilopascals, approximately 2.5 kilopascals to approximately 7.5 kilopascals, approximately 5 kilopascals to approximately 10 kilopascals, approximately 7.5 kilopascals to approximately 12.5 kilopascals, approximately 10 kilopascals to approximately 15 kilopascals, approximately 12.5 kilopascals to approximately 17.5 kilopascals, approximately 15 kilopascals to approximately 20 kilopascals, approximately 17.5 kilopascals to approximately 22.5 kilopascals, approximately 20 kilopascals to approximately 25 kilopascals, approximately 22.5 kilopascals to approximately 27.5 kilopascals, and approximately 25 kilopascals. The device described in item 31, selected from one or more of the group consisting of 10 kilopascals to about 30 kilopascals, about 27.5 kilopascals to about 32.5 kilopascals, about 30 kilopascals to about 35 kilopascals, about 32.5 kilopascals to about 37.5 kilopascals, about 35 kilopascals to about 40 kilopascals, about 37.5 kilopascals to about 42.5 kilopascals, about 40 kilopascals to about 45 kilopascals, about 42.5 kilopascals to about 47.5 kilopascals, and about 45 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 33) The second pressure difference amplitude selection element, A second fluid flow generator controller adjusts the operation of the second fluid flow generator in response to the operation of the second pressure difference amplitude selection element to achieve the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude, The device described in item 30, further equipped with the features described therein. (Item 34) The device according to item 33, wherein the second fluid flow generator is capable of generating a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation that alternately drives the second fluid flow between a first direction of the second fluid flow and a second direction of the second fluid flow within the second axial earphone conduit. (Item 35) The device according to item 34, wherein the second pressure difference amplitude oscillator has a second pressure difference amplitude oscillator frequency in the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. (Item 36) The device according to item 34, wherein the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency is a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency in the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. (Item 37) The second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies are 0 Hz to approximately 1 Hz, approximately 0.5 Hz to approximately 1.5 Hz, approximately 1 Hz to approximately 2 Hz, approximately 1.5 Hz to approximately 2.5 Hz, approximately 2 Hz to approximately 3 Hz, approximately 2.5 Hz to approximately 3.5 Hz, approximately 3 Hz to approximately 4 Hz, approximately 3.5 Hz to approximately 4.5 Hz, approximately 4 Hz to approximately 5 Hz, approximately 4.5 Hz to approximately 5.5 Hz, and approximately 5 Hz. A device as described in item 36, selected from one or more of the group consisting of Hz to approximately 6 Hz, approximately 5.5 Hz to approximately 6.5 Hz, approximately 6 Hz to approximately 7 Hz, approximately 6.5 Hz to approximately 7.5 Hz, approximately 7 Hz to approximately 8 Hz, approximately 7.5 Hz to approximately 8.5 Hz, approximately 8 Hz to approximately 9 Hz, approximately 8.5 Hz to approximately 9.5 Hz, and approximately 9 Hz to approximately 10 Hz. (Item 38) The device according to item 36, further comprising a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element, wherein the second fluid flow generator controller adjusts the operation of the second fluid flow generator in response to the operation of the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element to achieve the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 39) The device according to item 31, further comprising a second pressure relief valve fluidly coupled to the second axial earphone conduit, for relieving the second pressure difference exceeding a second predetermined pressure difference having a second predetermined pressure difference amplitude of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 40) A second pressure sensor that generates a second pressure sensor signal that fluctuates based on the change in the second pressure difference amplitude, A second pressure sensor signal analyzer, comprising a second pressure difference amplitude comparator that functions to compare the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude with the second pressure difference amplitude, wherein the second pressure sensor signal analyzer generates a second pressure difference amplitude compensation signal, and the second fluid flow generator controller controls the second fluid flow generator in response to the second pressure difference amplitude compensation signal to achieve the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude, The device described in item 30, further equipped with the features described therein. (Item 41) The device according to item 40, wherein the second pressure sensor signal analyzer further includes a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator that functions to compare the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency with the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency, the second pressure sensor signal analyzer generates a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal, and the second fluid flow generator controller controls the second fluid flow generator in response to the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal to achieve the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 42) The device according to item 31, wherein each of the first and second fluid flow generators comprises corresponding first and second pairs of fluid flow generators fluid-coupled to the first and second axial earphone conduits, each of which comprises, correspondingly, one positive pressure fluid flow generator that generates a first or second fluid flow flowing out of the corresponding first or second axial earphone conduit, and correspondingly, one negative pressure fluid flow generator that generates a first or second fluid flow flowing into the corresponding first or second axial earphone conduit. (Item 43) The device according to item 30, further comprising a fluid flow temperature regulator, which is fluid-coupled to the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow, and operates to adjust the first fluid flow temperature of the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow temperature of the second fluid flow. (Item 44) The device according to item 43, further comprising a third fluid flow generator capable of generating a third fluid flow having a third fluid flow rate in the range of 0 liters / min to about 10 liters / min, wherein a fluid flow temperature regulator is fluid-coupled to the third fluid flow generator and operates to regulate the third fluid flow temperature of the third fluid flow, the third fluid flow temperature being in the range of about 10°C to about 50°C, and the first and second axial earphone conduits are fluid-coupled to the third fluid flow generator. (Item 45) The device according to item 44, wherein the third fluid flow temperature is selected from one or more of the group consisting of about 10°C to about 20°C, about 15°C to about 25°C, about 20°C to about 30°C, about 25°C to about 35°C, about 30°C to about 40°C, about 35°C to about 45°C, and about 40°C to about 50°C. (Item 46) The device according to item 44, wherein the third fluid flow rate is selected from one or more of the group consisting of approximately 0 liters / min to approximately 2 liters / min, approximately 1 liter / min to approximately 3 liters / min, approximately 2 liters / min to approximately 4 liters / min, approximately 3 liters / min to approximately 5 liters / min, approximately 4 liters / min to approximately 6 liters / min, approximately 5 liters / min to approximately 7 liters / min, approximately 6 liters / min to approximately 8 liters / min, approximately 7 liters / min to approximately 9 liters / min, and approximately 8 liters / min to approximately 10 liters / min. (Item 47) The device according to item 44, further comprising a first valved conduit that is operable to interrupt the third fluid flow to the first axial earphone conduit. (Item 48) The device according to item 47, further comprising a second valved conduit that is operable to interrupt the third fluid flow to the second axial earphone conduit. (Item 49) A fourth fluid flow generator capable of generating a fourth fluid flow, A first coaxial earphone conduit and a second coaxial earphone conduit arranged around the first axial earphone conduit, the first and second coaxial earphone conduits, which are fluidly coupled to the fourth fluid flow generator, Furthermore, The device according to item 44, further comprising a first elastomer sleeve and a second elastomer sleeve, which are fluid-coupled to the first and second coaxial earphone conduits, wherein a fourth fluid flow within the first and second coaxial earphone conduits generates a corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure and the ambient pressure, the first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference, in correspondingly, is capable of expanding the first and second elastomer sleeves, and in correspondingly provides the first and second earphone outer surfaces configured to engage sealably with the first and second ear canals and provide corresponding first and second barriers between the corresponding first and second ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure. (Item 50) The device according to item 49, further comprising a third valved conduit that is operable to interrupt the fourth fluid flow to the first coaxial earphone conduit. (Item 51) The device according to item 50, further comprising a fourth valved conduit that is operable to interrupt the fourth fluid flow to the second coaxial earphone conduit. (Item 52) The device according to item 49, further comprising a fourth fluid flow generator controller for controlling the operation of the fourth fluid flow generator, generating the first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures and the ambient pressure, expanding the corresponding first and second elastomer sleeves, engaging sealably with the corresponding first and second ear canals, and providing corresponding first and second barriers between the corresponding first and second ear canal pressures and the ambient pressure. (Item 53) A third pressure sensor is fluid-coupled to the first coaxial earphone conduit and generates a third pressure sensor signal that fluctuates based on the change in the pressure difference between the first coaxial earphone conduit and the ambient pressure. A fourth pressure sensor is fluid-coupled to the second coaxial earphone conduit and generates a fourth pressure sensor signal that fluctuates based on changes in the pressure difference between the second coaxial earphone conduit and the ambient pressure. A coaxial earphone conduit pressure sensor signal analyzer that functions to identify a stable first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures and the ambient pressure, and generates a seal signal in response to the occurrence of the stable first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference, The device described in item 52, further comprising: (Item 54) The device according to item 53, further comprising an elastomer sleeve seal indicator that responds to the seal signal, wherein the elastomer sleeve seal indicator generates a sensibly perceptible mark in response to the reception of the seal signal. (Item 55) The device according to item 52, further comprising third and fourth pressure relief valves that are fluid-coupled to the first and second coaxial earphone conduits and correspondingly relieve the pressure difference between the first and second coaxial earphone conduits between the corresponding pressures of the first and second coaxial earphone conduits and the ambient pressure. (Item 56) The device according to item 55, further comprising a fluid pressure release selection element, wherein the fourth fluid flow generator controller, in response to the operation of the fluid pressure release selection element, restricts the operation of the fourth fluid flow generator, operates the third and fourth pressure relief valves, and accordingly returns the first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures and the ambient pressure toward the ambient pressure, thereby contracting the corresponding first and second elastomer sleeves. (Item 57) Memory elements and, A processor that communicates with the memory element, wherein the memory element contains, in correspondence, computer code executable to provide the first and second fluid flow generator controllers in response to the operation of the first and second pressure difference amplitude selection elements and the first and second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection elements. The device described in item 43, which further includes the following: (Item 58) The computer code is further executable to provide the first and second pressure difference amplitude comparators, as described in item 57. (Item 59) The computer code is further executable to provide the first and second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparators, as described in item 58. (Item 60) The device according to item 59, wherein the computer code is further capable of providing a fluid flow temperature controller that functions to control the fluid flow temperature controller and raise or lower the first fluid flow temperature or the second fluid flow temperature of the corresponding first or second fluid flow. (Item 61) The aforementioned computer code is further executable to administer one of several therapeutic profiles, as described in item 60. (Item 62) The device according to item 61, wherein the computer code is further executable to provide a timer for timing one dose of each of the plurality of therapeutic profiles. (Item 63) The device according to item 62, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict a graphical user interface on the display surface, including a pressure difference amplitude selection element that allows the selection of the pressure difference amplitude through user interaction. (Item 64) The device according to item 63, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict the graphical user interface on the display surface, further including the pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element which enables the selection of the pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency by user interaction. (Item 65) The device according to item 64, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict the graphical user interface on the display surface, further including a fluid flow temperature selection element that enables the selection of the fluid flow temperature through user interaction. (Item 66) The device according to item 65, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict the graphical user interface on the display surface, further including a treatment profile selection element that allows the selection of one of the plurality of treatment profiles through user interaction. (Item 67) The device according to item 66, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict the graphical user interface on the display surface, further including a time-cycle selection element that allows the user to select a time cycle in which each of the plurality of treatment profiles should be administered through user interaction. (Item 68) The device according to item 67, wherein the computer code is further capable of rendering the graphical user interface on the display surface, further comprising symptom ranking elements, which are rendered prior to and following the administration of one of the plurality of treatment profiles, enabling the input of symptom rank values ​​through user interaction. (Item 69) The device according to item 68, wherein the computer code is further capable of providing a transceiver controller that communicates with a transceiver that is wirelessly connectable to a controller device located away from the ear canal pressure adjustment device. (Item 70) The controller device, as described in item 69, includes a controller device processor that communicates with a controller device memory element, and the computer code is downloadable from the memory element to the controller device memory element. (Item 71) The device according to item 70, wherein the computer code is contained within a controller device memory element that is executable to display the graphical user interface on the controller device display surface, enabling the operation of the ear canal pressure adjustment device by user action. (Item 72) A method for producing an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device, The steps include providing a first fluid flow generator capable of generating a first fluid flow, A first earphone is provided, having a first axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the first earphone and a second end of the first earphone, wherein the first axial earphone conduit is fluidly coupled to a first fluid flow generator, and the first earphone has a first flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the first ear canal of a first ear as a first barrier between the pressure of the first ear canal and ambient pressure. Methods that include... (Item 73) The method according to item 72, further comprising the step of providing a first fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating the first fluid flow between the first fluid flow generator and the first axial earphone conduit, wherein the first fluid flow has a first fluid volume in the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 74) The method according to item 73, wherein the first fluid volume comprises a first pre-selected fluid volume within the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 75) The method according to item 74, wherein the first pre-selected fluid volume is selected from one or more of the group consisting of 0 milliliters to about 2 milliliters, about 1 milliliter to about 3 milliliters, about 2 milliliters to about 4 milliliters, about 3 milliliters to about 5 milliliters, about 4 milliliters to about 6 milliliters, about 5 milliliters to about 7 milliliters, about 6 milliliters to about 8 milliliters, about 7 milliliters to about 9 milliliters, about 8 milliliters to about 10 milliliters, about 9 milliliters to about 11 milliliters, about 10 milliliters to about 12 milliliters, about 11 milliliters to about 13 milliliters, about 12 milliliters to about 14 milliliters, about 13 milliliters to about 15 milliliters, about 14 milliliters to about 16 milliliters, about 15 milliliters to about 17 milliliters, about 16 milliliters to about 18 milliliters, about 17 milliliters to about 19 milliliters, and about 18 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 76) The method of item 72, further comprising the step of providing the first fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating a first pressure difference between the first external auditory canal pressure and the ambient pressure. (Item 77) The method according to item 76, wherein the first pressure difference has a first pressure difference amplitude in the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 78) The method according to item 77, wherein the first pressure difference amplitude comprises a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude within the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 79) The first pre-selected pressure difference amplitudes are 0 kilopascals to approximately 5 kilopascals, approximately 2.5 kilopascals to approximately 7.5 kilopascals, approximately 5 kilopascals to approximately 10 kilopascals, approximately 7.5 kilopascals to approximately 12.5 kilopascals, approximately 10 kilopascals to approximately 15 kilopascals, approximately 12.5 kilopascals to approximately 17.5 kilopascals, approximately 15 kilopascals to approximately 20 kilopascals, approximately 17.5 kilopascals to approximately 22.5 kilopascals, approximately 20 kilopascals to approximately 25 kilopascals, approximately 22.5 kilopascals to approximately 27.5 kilopascals, and approximately 25 The method described in item 78, selected from one or more of the group consisting of kilopascals to about 30 kilopascals, about 27.5 kilopascals to about 32.5 kilopascals, about 30 kilopascals to about 35 kilopascals, about 32.5 kilopascals to about 37.5 kilopascals, about 35 kilopascals to about 40 kilopascals, about 37.5 kilopascals to about 42.5 kilopascals, about 40 kilopascals to about 45 kilopascals, about 42.5 kilopascals to about 47.5 kilopascals, and about 45 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 80) The steps include providing a first pressure difference amplitude selection element, The steps include providing a first fluid flow generator controller that adjusts the operation of the first fluid flow generator in response to the operation of the first pressure difference amplitude selection element, and is capable of achieving the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude, The method described in item 77, further including the method described in item 77. (Item 81) The method of item 78, further comprising the step of providing a first fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation for alternately driving the first fluid flow between a first direction of the first fluid flow and a second direction of the first fluid flow within the first axial earphone conduit. (Item 82) The method according to item 81, wherein the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation has a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency in the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. (Item 83) The method according to item 82, wherein the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comprises a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency within the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. (Item 84) The first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies are 0 Hz to approximately 1 Hz, approximately 0.5 Hz to approximately 1.5 Hz, approximately 1 Hz to approximately 2 Hz, approximately 1.5 Hz to approximately 2.5 Hz, approximately 2 Hz to approximately 3 Hz, approximately 2.5 Hz to approximately 3.5 Hz, approximately 3 Hz to approximately 4 Hz, approximately 3.5 Hz to approximately 4.5 Hz, approximately 4 Hz to approximately 5 Hz, approximately 4.5 Hz to approximately 5.5 Hz, and approximately 5 Hz. The method described in item 83, selected from one or more of the groups consisting of Hertz to approximately 6 Hertz, approximately 5.5 Hertz to approximately 6.5 Hertz, approximately 6 Hertz to approximately 7 Hertz, approximately 6.5 Hertz to approximately 7.5 Hertz, approximately 7 Hertz to approximately 8 Hertz, approximately 7.5 Hertz to approximately 8.5 Hertz, approximately 8 Hertz to approximately 9 Hertz, approximately 8.5 Hertz to approximately 9.5 Hertz, and approximately 9 Hertz to approximately 10 Hertz. (Item 85) The method according to item 83, further comprising the step of providing a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element, wherein the first fluid flow generator controller adjusts the operation of the first fluid flow generator in response to the operation of the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element to achieve a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 86) The method according to item 78, further comprising the step of providing a first pressure relief valve that can be fluidly coupled to the first axial earphone conduit, wherein the first pressure relief valve is configured to relieve the first pressure difference exceeding a first predetermined pressure difference having a first predetermined pressure difference amplitude of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 87) The step of providing a first pressure sensor having a configuration capable of generating a first pressure sensor signal that fluctuates based on the change in the amplitude of the first pressure difference, A first pressure sensor signal analyzer is provided, comprising a first pressure difference amplitude comparator that functions to compare the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude with the first pressure difference amplitude, wherein the first pressure sensor signal analyzer is configured to generate a first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal, and the first fluid flow generator controller controls the first fluid flow generator in response to the first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal to achieve the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude. The method described in item 78, further including the method described in item 78. (Item 88) The method according to item 87, wherein the first pressure sensor signal analyzer further includes a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator that functions to compare the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency with the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency, the first pressure sensor signal analyzer is configured to generate a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal, and the first fluid flow generator controller controls the first fluid flow generator in response to the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal to achieve the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 89) The method according to item 78, further comprising the step of providing a fluid flow temperature regulator that can be fluid-coupled between the first fluid flow generator and the first axial earphone conduit, wherein the fluid flow temperature regulator has a configuration that is operable to regulate the first fluid flow temperature of the first fluid flow. (Item 90) The method according to item 89, wherein the first fluid flow temperature is in the range of about 10°C to about 50°C. (Item 91) The method according to item 90, wherein the first fluid flow temperature is a first pre-selected fluid flow temperature within the range of about 10°C to about 50°C. (Item 92) The method according to item 92, wherein the first pre-selected fluid flow temperature is selected from one or more of the group consisting of about 10°C to about 20°C, about 15°C to about 25°C, about 20°C to about 30°C, about 25°C to about 35°C, about 30°C to about 40°C, about 35°C to about 45°C, and about 40°C to about 50°C. (Item 93) The method according to item 78, further comprising the step of providing a second earphone having a second axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the second earphone and a second end of the second earphone, wherein the second axial earphone conduit is fluid-coupleable to the first fluid flow generator, and the second earphone has a second flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage sealably with the second ear canal of the second ear as a second barrier between the second ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure. (Item 94) The method according to item 93, wherein the first fluid flow generator is configured to generate a second pressure difference between the second external auditory canal pressure and the ambient pressure, the second pressure difference having a second pressure difference amplitude substantially corresponding to the first pressure difference amplitude. (Item 95) The method according to item 94, wherein the first fluid flow generator has a configuration capable of generating a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation having a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency substantially corresponding to the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 96) The steps include providing a second fluid flow generator capable of generating a second fluid flow, A step of providing a second earphone having a second axial earphone conduit communicating between a first end of the second earphone and a second end of the second earphone, wherein the second axial earphone conduit is fluid-coupleable to the second fluid flow generator, and the second earphone has a second flexible earphone outer surface configured to engage in a sealable manner with the second ear canal of the second ear, acting as a second barrier between the pressure of the second ear canal and the ambient pressure. The method described in item 78, further including the method described in item 78. (Item 97) The method according to item 96, further comprising the step of providing a second fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating the second fluid flow between the second fluid flow generator and the second axial earphone conduit, wherein the second fluid flow has a second fluid volume in the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 98) The method according to item 97, wherein the second fluid volume comprises a second pre-selected fluid volume in the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 99) The method according to item 98, wherein the second pre-selected fluid volume is selected from one or more of the group consisting of 0 milliliters to about 2 milliliters, about 1 milliliter to about 3 milliliters, about 2 milliliters to about 4 milliliters, about 3 milliliters to about 5 milliliters, about 4 milliliters to about 6 milliliters, about 5 milliliters to about 7 milliliters, about 6 milliliters to about 8 milliliters, about 7 milliliters to about 9 milliliters, about 8 milliliters to about 10 milliliters, about 9 milliliters to about 11 milliliters, about 10 milliliters to about 12 milliliters, about 11 milliliters to about 13 milliliters, about 12 milliliters to about 14 milliliters, about 13 milliliters to about 15 milliliters, about 14 milliliters to about 16 milliliters, about 15 milliliters to about 17 milliliters, about 16 milliliters to about 18 milliliters, about 17 milliliters to about 19 milliliters, and about 18 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. (Item 100) The method of item 96, further comprising the step of providing the second fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating a second pressure difference between the second external auditory canal pressure and the ambient pressure. (Item 101) The method according to item 100, wherein the second pressure difference has a second pressure difference amplitude in the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 102) The method according to item 101, wherein the second pressure difference amplitude comprises a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude within the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 103) The second pre-selected pressure difference amplitudes are 0 kilopascals to approximately 5 kilopascals, approximately 2.5 kilopascals to approximately 7.5 kilopascals, approximately 5 kilopascals to approximately 10 kilopascals, approximately 7.5 kilopascals to approximately 12.5 kilopascals, approximately 10 kilopascals to approximately 15 kilopascals, approximately 12.5 kilopascals to approximately 17.5 kilopascals, approximately 15 kilopascals to approximately 20 kilopascals, approximately 17.5 kilopascals to approximately 22.5 kilopascals, approximately 20 kilopascals to approximately 25 kilopascals, approximately 22.5 kilopascals to approximately 27.5 kilopascals, and approximately 25 The method according to item 102, selected from one or more of the group consisting of kilopascals to about 30 kilopascals, about 27.5 kilopascals to about 32.5 kilopascals, about 30 kilopascals to about 35 kilopascals, about 32.5 kilopascals to about 37.5 kilopascals, about 35 kilopascals to about 40 kilopascals, about 37.5 kilopascals to about 42.5 kilopascals, about 40 kilopascals to about 45 kilopascals, about 42.5 kilopascals to about 47.5 kilopascals, and about 45 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 104) The steps include providing a second pressure difference amplitude selection element, The steps include providing a second fluid flow generator controller that adjusts the operation of the second fluid flow generator in response to the operation of the second pressure difference amplitude selection element, thereby enabling the achievement of a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude, The method described in item 102, further including the method described in item 102. (Item 105) The method according to item 104, further comprising the step of providing a second fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation for alternately driving the second fluid flow between a first direction of the second fluid flow and a second direction of the second fluid flow within the second axial earphone conduit. (Item 106) The method according to item 105, wherein the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation has a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency in the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. (Item 107) The method according to item 105, wherein the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comprises a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency in the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. (Item 108) The second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency is 0 Hz to approximately 1 Hz, approximately 0.5 Hz to approximately 1.5 Hz, approximately 1 Hz to approximately 2 Hz, approximately 1.5 Hz to approximately 2.5 Hz, approximately 2 Hz to approximately 3 Hz, approximately 2.5 Hz to approximately 3.5 Hz, approximately 3 Hz to approximately 4 Hz, approximately 3.5 Hz to approximately 4.5 Hz, approximately 4 Hz to approximately 5 Hz, approximately 4.5 Hz to approximately 5.5 Hz, and approximately 5 Hz. The method described in item 107, selected from one or more of the groups consisting of Hertz to approximately 6 Hertz, approximately 5.5 Hertz to approximately 6.5 Hertz, approximately 6 Hertz to approximately 7 Hertz, approximately 6.5 Hertz to approximately 7.5 Hertz, approximately 7 Hertz to approximately 8 Hertz, approximately 7.5 Hertz to approximately 8.5 Hertz, approximately 8 Hertz to approximately 9 Hertz, approximately 8.5 Hertz to approximately 9.5 Hertz, and approximately 9 Hertz to approximately 10 Hertz. (Item 109) The method according to item 107, further comprising the step of providing a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element, wherein the second fluid flow generator controller adjusts the operation of the second fluid flow generator in response to the operation of the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element to achieve the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 110) The method according to item 102, further comprising the step of providing a second pressure relief valve that can be fluidly coupled to the second axial earphone conduit, wherein the second pressure relief valve is configured to relieve the second pressure difference exceeding a second predetermined pressure difference having a second predetermined pressure difference amplitude of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. (Item 111) The step of providing a second pressure sensor having a configuration capable of generating a second pressure sensor signal that fluctuates based on the change in the second pressure difference amplitude, A step of providing a second pressure sensor signal analyzer, which includes a second pressure difference amplitude comparator that functions to compare the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude with the second pressure difference amplitude, wherein the second pressure sensor signal analyzer is configured to generate a second pressure difference amplitude compensation signal, and the second fluid flow generator controller controls the second fluid flow generator in response to the second pressure difference compensation signal to achieve the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude. The method described in item 101, further including the method described in item 101. (Item 112) The method according to item 111, wherein the second pressure sensor signal analyzer further includes a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator that functions to compare the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency with the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency, the second pressure sensor signal analyzer is configured to generate a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal, and the second fluid flow generator controller controls the second fluid flow generator in response to the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal to achieve the second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency. (Item 113) The method according to item 102, wherein the first and second fluid flow generators each comprise a corresponding first and second pair of fluid flow generators that are fluidly coupled to the first and second axial earphone conduits, and each of the first and second pair of fluid flow generators comprises a positive pressure fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating a first or second fluid flow that flows out of the corresponding first or second axial earphone conduit, and a negative pressure fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating a first or second fluid flow that flows into the corresponding first or second axial earphone conduit. (Item 114) The method according to item 101, further comprising the step of providing a fluid flow temperature regulator capable of fluid coupling to the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow, wherein the fluid flow temperature regulator is configured to operate to regulate a first fluid flow temperature of the first fluid flow and a second fluid flow temperature of the second fluid flow. (Item 115) The method according to item 114, further comprising the step of providing a third fluid flow generator having a configuration capable of generating a third fluid flow having a third fluid flow rate in the range of 0 liters / min to about 10 liters / min, wherein the fluid flow temperature regulator is fluid-coupleable to the third fluid flow generator, and the fluid flow temperature regulator is configured to operate to adjust the third fluid flow temperature of the third fluid flow, wherein the third fluid flow temperature is in the range of about 10°C to about 50°C, and the first and second axial earphone conduits are fluid-coupleable to the third fluid flow generator. (Item 116) The method according to item 115, wherein the third fluid flow temperature is selected from one or more of the group consisting of about 10°C to about 20°C, about 15°C to about 25°C, about 20°C to about 30°C, about 25°C to about 35°C, about 30°C to about 40°C, about 35°C to about 45°C, and about 40°C to about 50°C. (Item 117) The method according to item 115, wherein the third fluid flow rate is selected from one or more of the group consisting of approximately 0 liters / min to approximately 2 liters / min, approximately 1 liter / min to approximately 3 liters / min, approximately 2 liters / min to approximately 4 liters / min, approximately 3 liters / min to approximately 5 liters / min, approximately 4 liters / min to approximately 6 liters / min, approximately 5 liters / min to approximately 7 liters / min, approximately 6 liters / min to approximately 8 liters / min, approximately 7 liters / min to approximately 9 liters / min, and approximately 8 liters / min to approximately 10 liters / min. (Item 118) The method according to item 115, further comprising the step of providing a first valved conduit having a configuration that can operate to interrupt the third fluid flow to the first axial earphone conduit. (Item 119) The method according to item 118, further comprising the step of providing a second valved conduit having a configuration that can operate to interrupt the third fluid flow to the second axial earphone conduit. (Item 120) The steps include providing a fourth fluid flow generator capable of generating a fourth fluid flow, A step of arranging a first coaxial earphone conduit around the first axial earphone conduit, and arranging a second coaxial earphone conduit around the second axial earphone conduit, wherein the first and second coaxial earphone conduits have a configuration that allows them to be fluidly coupled to the fourth fluid flow generator, The steps of providing a first elastomer sleeve and a second elastomer sleeve that are fluidly coupled to the first and second coaxial earphone conduits, wherein a fourth fluid flow within the first and second coaxial earphone conduits is capable of generating a corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure and the ambient pressure, the first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference is capable of correspondingly expanding the first and second elastomer sleeves, and correspondingly engaging in a sealable manner with the first and second ear canals, and providing corresponding first and second barriers between the corresponding first and second ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure, the first and second earphone outer surfaces, The method described in item 115, further including the method described in item 115. (Item 121) The method according to item 120, further comprising the step of providing a third valved conduit having a configuration that can operate to interrupt the fourth fluid flow to the first coaxial earphone conduit. (Item 122) The method according to item 121, further comprising the step of providing a fourth valved conduit having a configuration that can operate to interrupt the fourth fluid flow to the second coaxial earphone conduit. (Item 123) The method according to item 120, further comprising the step of providing a fourth fluid flow generator controller having a configuration that controls the fourth fluid flow generator, generates the first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure and the ambient pressure, expands the corresponding first and second elastomer sleeves, engages sealably with the corresponding first and second ear canals, and provides corresponding first and second barriers between the corresponding first and second ear canal pressure and the ambient pressure. (Item 124) A step of providing a third pressure sensor that can be fluidly coupled to the first coaxial earphone conduit, wherein the third pressure sensor is configured to generate a third pressure sensor signal that fluctuates based on a change in the pressure difference between the first coaxial earphone conduit and the ambient pressure. A step of providing a fourth pressure sensor that can be fluidly coupled to the second coaxial earphone conduit, wherein the fourth pressure has a configuration capable of generating a fourth pressure sensor signal that fluctuates based on a change in the second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the second coaxial earphone conduit pressure and the ambient pressure. A coaxial earphone conduit pressure sensor signal analyzer is provided, having a configuration capable of identifying a stable first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures and the ambient pressure, wherein the coaxial earphone conduit pressure sensor signal analyzer has a configuration capable of generating a seal signal in response to the occurrence of the stable first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference. The method described in item 123, further including the method described in item 123. (Item 125) The method according to item 124, further comprising the step of providing an elastomer sleeve seal indicator that is responsive to the seal signal, wherein the elastomer sleeve seal indicator is configured to generate a sensibly perceptible mark in response to the reception of the seal signal. (Item 126) The method according to item 123, further comprising the step of providing corresponding third and fourth pressure relief valves that can be fluidly coupled to the first and second coaxial earphone conduits, wherein the third and fourth pressure relief valves are configured to correspondingly relieve the pressure difference between the first and second coaxial earphone conduits between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures and the ambient pressure. (Item 127) The method according to item 126, further comprising the step of providing a fluid pressure release select element, wherein the fourth fluid flow generator controller, in response to the operation of the fluid pressure release select element, restricts the operation of the fourth fluid flow generator, operates the third and fourth pressure relief valves, and accordingly returns the first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures and the ambient pressure toward the ambient pressure, thereby allowing the corresponding first and second elastomer sleeves to contract. (Item 128) Memory elements and, A processor that communicates with the memory element, wherein the memory element contains, in correspondence, computer code executable to provide the first and second fluid flow generator controllers in response to the operation of the first and second pressure difference amplitude selection elements and the first and second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection elements. The method described in item 114, further including the method described in item 114. (Item 129) The method according to item 128, wherein the computer code is further executable to provide the first and second pressure difference amplitude comparators. (Item 130) The method according to item 129, wherein the computer code is further executable to provide the first and second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparators. (Item 131) The method according to item 130, wherein the computer code is further capable of providing a fluid flow temperature controller that functions to control the fluid flow temperature controller and raise or lower the first fluid flow temperature or the second fluid flow temperature of the corresponding first or second fluid flow. (Item 132) The method according to item 131, wherein the computer code is further executable to administer one of several therapeutic profiles. (Item 133) The method according to item 132, wherein the computer code is further executable to provide a timer for timing one dose of each of the plurality of treatment profiles. (Item 134) The method according to item 133, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict a graphical user interface on the display surface, which includes a pressure difference amplitude selection element that allows the selection of the pressure difference amplitude through user interaction. (Item 135) The method according to item 134, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict the graphical user interface on the display surface, further including the pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element which enables the selection of the pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency by user interaction. (Item 136) The method of item 135, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict the graphical user interface on the display surface, further including a fluid flow temperature selection element that enables the selection of the fluid flow temperature through user interaction. (Item 137) The method according to item 136, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict the graphical user interface on the display surface, further including a treatment profile selection element that allows the selection of one of the plurality of treatment profiles through user interaction. (Item 138) The method of item 137, wherein the computer code is further executable to depict the graphical user interface on the display surface, further including a time-period selection element that allows the user to select a time period in which each of the plurality of treatment profiles should be administered through user interaction. (Item 139) The method of item 138, wherein the computer code is further capable of rendering the graphical user interface on the display surface, further comprising symptom ranking elements, which are rendered prior to and following the administration of one of the plurality of treatment profiles, enabling the input of symptom rank values ​​through user interaction. (Item 140) The method according to item 139, wherein the computer code can further be made executable to provide a transceiver controller that communicates with a transceiver that is wirelessly connectable to a controller device located away from the ear canal pressure adjustment device. (Item 141) The method according to item 140, wherein the controller device includes a controller device processor that communicates with a controller device memory element, and the computer code is downloadable from the memory element to the controller device memory element. (Item 142) The method according to item 141, wherein the computer code is contained within the controller device memory element, which is executable to display the graphical user interface on the controller device display surface, enabling the operation of the ear canal pressure adjustment device by user action. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0016] [Figure 1] Figure 1 illustrates a method of using a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 2] Figure 2 illustrates a method of using a specific embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 3] Figure 3 illustrates a method of using a specific embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 4] Figure 4 illustrates a specific embodiment of an ear canal pressure regulating device that is sealably engaged with the ear canal. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A illustrates a particular embodiment of an ear canal pressure regulating device that is sealably engaged with a first ear canal. [Figure 5B] Figure 5B illustrates a particular embodiment of an auditory canal pressure regulating device that is sealably engaged with a second auditory canal. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic block diagram of a specific embodiment of the ear canal pressure adjustment device shown in Figure 7, which is operable to achieve a pressure difference between ear canal pressure and ambient pressure. [Figure 9A] Figure 9A is a first internal plan view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 9B] Figure 9B is a second internal plan view of a specific embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device shown in Figure 9A. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is an enlarged, perspective view of the internal structure of a specific embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device shown in Figure 9B. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a specific embodiment of an earphone with an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a first side view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a second side view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a top view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 15]Figure 15 is a bottom view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a first end view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a second end view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view 18-18 of a specific earphone of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device, as shown in Figure 13. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is an exploded view of a specific embodiment of the earphone of the ear canal pressure adjustment device shown in Figure 18. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a first side view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a second side view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 23] Figure 23 is a top view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a bottom view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a first end view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a second end view of a specific embodiment of an earphone for adjusting external auditory canal pressure. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a perspective view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 28] Figure 28 is a schematic block diagram of a specific embodiment of the ear canal pressure adjustment device shown in Figure 27, which is operable to achieve a pressure difference between ear canal pressure and ambient pressure. [Figure 29A] Figure 29A is a first internal plan view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 29B]Figure 29B is a second internal plan view of a specific embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device shown in Figure 29A. [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a top view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 31] Figure 31 is a bottom view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a first side view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 33] Figure 33 is a second side view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 34] Figure 34 is a first end view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 35] Figure 35 is a second end view of a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 36A] Figure 36A illustrates a particular embodiment of a graphical user interface depicted on the display surface of a computer device and a method for controlling the operation of an embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device using the graphical user interface. [Figure 36B] Figure 36B illustrates a particular embodiment of a graphical user interface depicted on the display surface of a computer device and a method for controlling the operation of an embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device using the graphical user interface. [Figure 37A] Figure 37A shows a positive pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 37B] Figure 37B shows a positive pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 37C] Figure 37C shows a positive pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 37D] Figure 37D shows a positive pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 37E] Figure 37E shows a positive pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 37F] Figure 37F shows a positive pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a specific embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 37G] Figure 37G shows a positive pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 38A] Figure 38A shows a negative pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 38B] Figure 38B shows a negative pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 38C] Figure 38C shows a negative pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 38D] Figure 38D shows a negative pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 38E] Figure 38E shows a negative pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 38F] Figure 38F shows a negative pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 38G] Figure 38G shows a negative pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 39A] Figure 39A shows a pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 39B] Figure 39B shows a pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 39C] Figure 39C shows a pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 39D]Figure 39D shows a pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 39E] Figure 39E shows a pressure adjustment profile that may be generated by a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device. [Figure 40] Figure 40 is a valve position schedule for a specific embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 28. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0017] Refer here to Figures 1, 4, 5A, and 8, which illustrate a specific use of an auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1), primarily comprising a first fluid flow generator (2) and a first earphone (3) having a first axial earphone conduit (4) fluidly coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2). The specific use may include steps of sealingly engaging the first auditory canal (5) of a first ear (6) with the first earphone outer surface (7) of the first earphone (3); generating a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4); and adjusting a first pressure difference (9) between the first auditory canal pressure (10) of the first ear (6) and the ambient pressure (11). The first pressure difference (9) may be effective in alleviating one or more disorder symptoms or treating one or more disorders.

[0018] Refer to Figures 2, 5A, 5B, and 8 to illustrate a specific use of an ear canal pressure adjustment device (1), which mainly includes a first fluid flow generator (2), a first earphone (3), and a second earphone (12), the first and second earphones (3) and (12) each having corresponding first and second axial earphone conduits (4) and (13) fluid-coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2). The method of use may include steps of: engaging the first external auditory canal (5) of the first ear (6) with the first earphone outer surface (7) of the first earphone (3); engaging the second external auditory canal (14) of the second ear (15) with the second earphone outer surface (16) of the second earphone (12); generating a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first and second axial earphone conduits (4) (13); adjusting a first pressure difference (9) between the first external auditory canal pressure (10) of the first ear (6) and the ambient pressure (11); and adjusting a second pressure difference (17) between the second external auditory canal pressure (18) of the second ear (15) and the ambient pressure (11) to alleviate one or more disorder symptoms or to treat one or more disorders.

[0019] Herein, we refer to Figures 3, 5A, 5B, and 28, which illustrate a specific use of an ear canal pressure adjustment device (1), mainly comprising a first earphone (3) having a first fluid flow generator (2) and a first axial earphone conduit (4) fluid-coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2), and a second earphone (12) having a second fluid flow generator (19) and a second axial earphone conduit (13) fluid-coupled to the second fluid flow generator (19). The method of use involves the steps of: engaging the first external auditory canal (5) of the first ear (6) with the first earphone outer surface (7) of the first earphone (3) in a way that allows for a seal; engaging the second external auditory canal (14) of the second ear (15) with the second earphone outer surface (16) of the second earphone (12); generating a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4); and the first external auditory canal pressure (10) of the first ear (6). The procedure may include steps of adjusting a first pressure difference (9) between the second ear (15) and the ambient pressure (11), generating a second fluid flow (20) between the second fluid flow generator (19) and the second axial earphone conduit (13), and adjusting a second pressure difference (17) between the second external auditory canal pressure (8) of the second ear (15) and the ambient pressure (11) which is effective in alleviating one or more symptoms of impairment or treating one or more impairments.

[0020] For the purposes of this invention, the term "pressure difference" means the difference in pressure between two locations.

[0021] For the purposes of this invention, the term “pressure difference amplitude” means a numerical value representing the pressure difference between two locations. Pressure difference amplitude can be expressed as a number without sign (positive or negative), regardless of whether the pressure at the first location is lower or higher than that at the second location. In an illustrative example, both a first or second auditory canal pressure (10)(18) that is 50 kilopascals above the ambient pressure (11) and a first or second auditory canal pressure (10)(18) that is 50 kilopascals below the ambient pressure (11) may have a first or second pressure difference amplitude (9)(17) of 50 kilopascals.

[0022] For the purposes of this invention, the term “external auditory canal pressure” means a force applied within a first or second external auditory canal (5)(14), and not limited to the foregoing, a force applied within a first or second external auditory canal (5)(14) by a fluid volume (21), which is a pre-selected fluid volume (22) of a first or second fluid flow (8)(20) delivered into or generated within the first or second external auditory canal (5)(14) by the operation of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1).

[0023] For the purposes of this invention, the term “pre-selected” means a parameter that, by interaction with the auditory canal pressure regulating device (1), is pre-selected to be delivered to, generated in, or administered thereto in a first or second auditory canal (5)(14), and subsequently, by the operation of the auditory canal pressure regulating device (1), is delivered to, generated in, or administered thereto in a first or second auditory canal (5)(14). For example, a pre-selected fluid volume (22) of 10 milliliters can be pre-selected to be delivered to a first or second auditory canal (5)(14) by interaction with the auditory canal pressure regulating device (1), and subsequently, a fluid volume (21) of 10 milliliters can be delivered to a first or second auditory canal (5)(14) by the operation of the auditory canal pressure regulating device (1).

[0024] For the purposes of this invention, the term “ambient pressure” means a force applied externally to a first or second ear canal (5)(14) in an ambient environment, and not limited to the foregoing, but meaning a force applied to a first or second earphone (3)(12) on the periphery side of a corresponding first or second barrier (102)(103) which is generated to have a corresponding first or second earphone outer surface (7)(16) that is sealedly engaged with the corresponding first or second ear canal (5)(14), as described herein.

[0025] For the purposes of this invention, the term "sealably engaged" means a seal between the outer surface of an earphone and the ear canal that is capable of maintaining a pressure difference, pressure difference amplitude, or a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude over a certain time period or a pre-selected time period, or capable of maintaining an effective pressure regulation profile for alleviating one or more impairment symptoms, or for treating one or more impairments.

[0026] For the purposes of this invention, the term “symptom” means any discomfort or combination of discomfort associated with a disorder. Not limited to the categories set forth above, symptoms include: dizziness; spatial disorientation; nausea; claudication; tactile illusions; paresthesia; photophobia; olfactory hypersensitivity; phonophobia; anxiety; insomnia; irritability; fatigue; loss of appetite; blurred vision; gait disturbance; and, but not limited to, acute or chronic pain of varying characteristics, including throbbing pain, tearing pain, sharp pain, dull pain, deep pain, spear-piercing pain, burning pain, throbbing pain, stabbing pain, intense pain, electric shock pain, swelling, or stinging pain; or equivalents; or combinations thereof.

[0027] For the purposes of this invention, the term "disorder" means a physical or mental condition that cannot be normal or healthy. Without limiting itself to the categories set forth above, a disorder may include: neuropathological craniofacial pain syndromes such as neuralgia, e.g., trigeminal neuralgia; temporomandibular joint syndrome; headache syndromes such as migraine, chronic daily headache, cluster headache, tension headache, post-traumatic headache, or chronic paroxysmal hemiparoxysmal headache; endolymphatic hydrops; spatial disorientation; tinnitus; syndromes resulting from brain injury; syndromes resulting from neurological dysfunction, including cognitive disorders such as attention deficit disorder, emotional disorders such as anxiety disorders, or paroxysmal disorders; phantom limb; middle ear disorders; inner ear disorders; or equivalents, or combinations thereof.

[0028] Referring primarily to Figures 8, 9A, 9B, 28, 29A, and 29B, a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may include a first fluid flow generator (2) having any of a number of various configurations capable of generating a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4) of the first earphone (3). With respect to a particular embodiment, the first fluid flow generator (2) may include a volume-adjustable element (23) that can operate between a larger volume and a smaller volume. In an illustrative embodiment, the step of operating the volume-adjustable element (23) from a larger volume to a smaller volume can generate a first fluid flow (8) from the first fluid flow generator (2), while the step of operating the volume-adjustable element (23) from a smaller volume to a larger volume can generate the first fluid flow (8) toward the first fluid flow generator (2).

[0029] With respect to a particular embodiment, the first fluid flow generator (2) may include a rotary positive displacement pump such as a gear pump, screw pump, or rotary vane pump; a reciprocating positive displacement pump such as a plunger pump, diaphragm pump, or piston pump; or a positive displacement pump (24) which can be configured as any pump configuration capable of moving a fluid volume (21) or generating a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4). In an illustrative example, the positive displacement pump (24) which may be useful in a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may be the SP 100 EC or SP 100 EC-LC, available from Schwarzer Precision GmbH + Co. (AmLichtbogen 7, 45141 Essen, Germany). As an illustrative example, the axial earphone conduit (4)(13), which may be useful in a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) for fluid coupling to a volumetric transfer pump (24), may be a multi-lobe microextruded tube, such as multi-lobe microextruded tubes available from Microspec Corporation (327 Jaffrey Road, Peterborough, NH, 03458, USA).

[0030] Referring primarily to Figures 8, 9A, and 9B, the first fluid flow generator (2) can be configured as a piston pump (25), where a piston (26) reciprocates within a barrel (27) to regulate the internal volume (28) of the barrel between a larger volume and a smaller volume. In an illustrative embodiment, the piston (26) can operate to reduce the internal volume (28) of the barrel, thereby generating a first fluid flow (8) from the first fluid flow generator (2) toward the first axial earphone conduit (4). With respect to a particular embodiment having a first earphone outer surface (7) that is sealably engaged with the first ear canal (5) (as shown in the illustrative embodiment in Figures 4 and 5A), the first fluid flow (8) can flow out from the first axial earphone conduit (4) toward the first ear canal (5), which can generate a first ear canal pressure (10) that is greater than the ambient pressure (11). Conversely, the piston (26) can be operated to increase the internal volume (28) of the barrel, thereby generating a first fluid flow (8) from the first axial earphone conduit (4) toward the first fluid flow generator (2). In particular embodiments having a first earphone outer surface (7) that is sealably engaged with a first ear canal (5), the first fluid flow (8) can flow from the first ear canal (5) into the first axial earphone conduit (4), which can generate a first ear canal pressure (10) below the ambient pressure (11).

[0031] Referring primarily to Figures 8 and 9B, in a particular embodiment, the piston (26) can be operably coupled to an actuator (29) which can function to move the piston (26) within the barrel (27) and generate a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4). In a particular embodiment, the actuator (29) can be configured as a linear actuator (30), which includes a mechanical actuator, a hydraulic actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a piezoelectric actuator, an electromechanical actuator, a linear motor, a telescopic linear actuator, or any linear actuator configuration capable of generating linear motion. As an illustrative example, the linear actuator (30), which may be useful in a particular embodiment of the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1), may be the small linear actuator AS-03 available from Lunematic. In a particular embodiment, the linear actuator (30) can be configured as a threaded shaft that moves linearly in response to rotation. The linear actuator (30) can be positioned adjacent to the barrel (27) of the first fluid flow generator (2). The linear motion of the threaded shaft can be coupled by the connector (32) to the motion of the piston (26) of the first fluid flow generator (2), thereby causing the linear motion of the threaded shaft to generate the linear motion of the piston (26) within the barrel (27), adjusting the internal volume (28) of the barrel and generating a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4).

[0032] In other specific embodiments, the first fluid flow generator (2) may be configured as a diaphragm pump, which may include a diaphragm having an elastic flexible wall that borders the chamber volume. In a deformed state, the elastic flexible wall reduces the chamber volume, thereby generating a first fluid flow (8) from the first fluid flow generator (2) toward the first axial earphone conduit (4). In a specific embodiment having a first earphone outer surface (7) that is sealably engaged with the first ear canal (5), the first fluid flow (8) can flow out from the first axial earphone conduit (4) toward the first ear canal (5), which can generate a first ear canal pressure (10) that is greater than the ambient pressure (11). Conversely, the elastic flexible wall returns from a deformed state toward an undeformed state, increasing the chamber volume, thereby generating a first fluid flow (8) from the first axial earphone conduit (4) toward the first fluid flow generator (2). In a particular embodiment having a first earphone outer surface (7) that is sealably engaged with a first ear canal (5), a first fluid flow (8) can flow from the first ear canal (5) into a first axial earphone conduit (4), which can generate a first ear canal pressure (10) below ambient pressure (11).

[0033] In a particular embodiment, the diaphragm may be a piezoelectric diaphragm having an elastic flexible wall that vibrates in response to the application of a sinusoidal voltage. The vibration can generate a first fluid flow (8), which has a flow rate of up to 0.8 liters / minute and a typical pressure of up to 1.5 kilopascals, which can be achieved by a 15 Vp-p 25 kHz signal. The piezoelectric diaphragm can be operated by a 24-25 kHz signal, which is normally above the audible range.

[0034] Referring primarily to Figures 4 and 5A, the first fluid flow generator (2) can be configured to generate a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4), having a fluid volume (21) typically in the range of 0 milliliters to about 20 milliliters. However, embodiments may have smaller or larger fluid volumes (21) depending on the application. With respect to a particular embodiment, the fluid volume (21) or pre-selected fluid volume (22) can be 0 milliliters to about 2 milliliters, about 1 milliliter to about 3 milliliters, about 2 milliliters to about 4 milliliters, about 3 milliliters to about 5 milliliters, about 4 milliliters to about 6 milliliters, about 5 milliliters to about 7 milliliters, about 6 milliliters to about 8 milliliters, about 7 milliliters to about 9 milliliters, about 8 milliliters to about 10 milliliters, about 9 milliliters to about 11 milliliters, about 10 The range can be selected from one or more of the following groups, including or consisting of milliliters to approximately 12 milliliters, approximately 11 milliliters to approximately 13 milliliters, approximately 12 milliliters to approximately 14 milliliters, approximately 13 milliliters to approximately 15 milliliters, approximately 14 milliliters to approximately 16 milliliters, approximately 15 milliliters to approximately 17 milliliters, approximately 16 milliliters to approximately 18 milliliters, approximately 17 milliliters to approximately 19 milliliters, and approximately 18 milliliters to approximately 20 milliliters.

[0035] One or more fluid volumes (21) (or pre-selected fluid volumes (22)) can be generated using the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) depending on the method of use, which may be further influenced by factors such as the biomechanical, physiological, or biochemical properties of the user's (33) ear canal (34); alleviating target disorder symptoms; treating target disorders; observable effects of using one or more fluid volumes (21) (or pre-selected fluid volumes (22)) in a particular method of use of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1); or equivalents; or a combination thereof, thereby, one or more fluid volumes (21) (or pre-selected fluid volumes (22)) may be effective in alleviating one or more disorder symptoms or treating one or more disorders, but not to the extent that they cause discomfort to the user (33) or damage to the ear canal (34) or eardrum (35).

[0036] Again, primarily referring to Figures 4 and 5A, the first fluid flow generator (2) can generate a first pressure difference (9) between a first external auditory canal pressure (10) and ambient pressure (11). With respect to a particular embodiment, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) can be operated to achieve a first external auditory canal pressure (10) that may be below or above ambient pressure (11). The effective range of the first external auditory canal pressure (10) can increase from slightly above or below ambient pressure (11) to a first external auditory canal pressure (10) that is above or below ambient pressure (11) just before causing discomfort to the user (33) or injury to the ear canal (34) or eardrum (35). While authorities have varying views on a first external auditory canal pressure (10) that could result in discomfort to the user (33) or injury to the ear canal (34) or eardrum (35), typically, embodiments of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) would not be configured to operate at approximately -50 kilopascals below or above the ambient pressure (11) at approximately +50 kilopascals above the ambient pressure (11).

[0037] Therefore, the first fluid flow generator (2) can generate a first pressure difference (9) having a first pressure difference amplitude (36) in the range of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals. However, the embodiment can generate a lower or higher first pressure difference amplitude (36) depending on the application. With respect to a particular embodiment, the first pressure difference amplitude (36) or the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) is 0 kilopascals to about 5 kilopascals, about 2.5 kilopascals to about 7.5 kilopascals, about 5 kilopascals to about 10 kilopascals, about 7.5 kilopascals to about 12.5 kilopascals, about 10 kilopascals to about 15 kilopascals, about 12.5 kilopascals to about 17.5 kilopascals, about 15 kilopascals to about 20 kilopascals, about 17.5 kilopascals to about 22.5 kilopascals, about 20 kilopascals to about 25 kilopascals, about 22.5 kilopascals to about 27 The range can be selected from one or more of the group including or consisting of 0.5 kilopascals, approximately 25 to 30 kilopascals, approximately 27.5 to 32.5 kilopascals, approximately 30 to 35 kilopascals, approximately 32.5 to 37.5 kilopascals, approximately 35 to 40 kilopascals, approximately 37.5 to 42.5 kilopascals, approximately 40 to 45 kilopascals, approximately 42.5 to 47.5 kilopascals, and approximately 45 to 50 kilopascals.

[0038] One or more first pressure difference amplitudes (36) (or first pre-selected pressure difference amplitudes (37)) can be generated using the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) depending on the method of use, but may be further influenced by factors such as the biomechanical, physiological, or biochemical properties of the user's (33) ear canal (34); alleviating target disorder symptoms; treating target disorders; observable effects of using one or more first pressure difference amplitudes (36) (or first pre-selected pressure difference amplitudes (37)) in a particular method of use of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1); or equivalents; or a combination thereof, thereby, one or more first pressure difference amplitudes (36) (or first pre-selected pressure difference amplitudes (37)) may be effective in alleviating one or more disorder symptoms or treating one or more disorders, but not to the extent that they cause discomfort to the user (33) or injury to the ear canal (34) or eardrum (35).

[0039] In a particular embodiment, a first fluid pressure difference (9) generated by a first fluid flow generator (2) exists across a first external auditory canal (5) and separates the first external auditory canal (5) from the middle ear (38), making the tympanic membrane (35) movable and potentially effective in alleviating one or more disorder symptoms or treating one or more disorders. The tympanic membrane (35) comprises three layers, including an intermediate layer (lamina propria) located between the outer epidermal layer and the inner mucosal layer. The intermediate layer contains degenerated mechanoreceptive Vater-Pacinian corpuscles ("mechanoreceptors") that may be sensitive to deformation or stretching of the tympanic membrane (35). Thus, these mechanoreceptors function as baroreceptors and can transmit afferent signals to the central nervous system associated with the inward ("towards the middle ear") or outward ("away from the middle ear") movement of the tympanic membrane (35).

[0040] Mechanoreceptors can then transmit afferent signals to the auriculotemporal nerve via A-β pseudounipolar nerve fibers that fuse with the mandibular nerve. The mandibular nerve converges with the maxillary and ophthalmic nerves, forming the trigeminal ganglion, where the cell bodies of primary afferent pressure-transmitting fibers reside. Afferent fibers are transmitted through the sensory root of the trigeminal nerve to the ventrolateral median ventral side of the pons. In this way, the trigeminal nerve can transmit sensory signals, including nociceptive signals ("pain signals"), from the skull and face to the central nervous system. Afferent fibers then enter the brainstem and synapses on various parts of the trigeminal nuclear system, including the deep lamina of the caudal trigeminal nucleus, where they can induce GABAergic inhibitory neurons, hyperpolarize nociceptive fibers and interneurons in the superficial lamina, and block nociceptive transmission.

[0041] The first or second pressure difference (9)(17) between the corresponding first or second external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) generated by the first fluid flow generator (2) and the ambient pressure (11) can induce a sequence of antinociceptive mechanoreceptor-derived nerve impulses, allowing various relevant nuclei of the brainstem pain matrix to be attenuated and resume normal steady-state activity. Parasympathetic-induced intracranial vasodilation can also be halted, and restoring quiescent vascular flow and tension within the cranial vascular system can be restored, some of which may be associated with the trigeminal nerve and trigeminal nerve fibers as part of the trigeminal nervous system. In addition to vasodynamic modulation, biochemical modifications such as downregulation of inflammatory cytokines or other pain-promoting compounds within or around the cranial vascular bed can also be induced, thereby allowing vascular normalization to lead to further quiescence of the conduction of trigeminal nociceptive afferent nerve impulses, which may result in the alleviation of one or more disorder symptoms or the treatment of one or more disorders.

[0042] Referring primarily to Figures 4 and 5A, with respect to a particular embodiment of the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1), a first fluid flow (8) within the first ear canal (5) of the first ear (6) can generate a first ear canal pressure (10) above the ambient pressure (11), which causes a corresponding movement of the tympanic membrane (35) toward the middle ear (38), and thus increases the concavity of the tympanic membrane (35). Similarly, a first fluid flow (8) within the first ear canal (5) of the first ear (6) can generate a first ear canal pressure (10) below the ambient pressure (11), which causes a corresponding movement of the tympanic membrane (35) toward the middle ear (38), and thus decreases the concavity of the tympanic membrane (35). With respect to a particular embodiment or method, a first or second pressure difference (9)(17) generated by a first fluid flow generator (2) can move the eardrum (35) toward or away from the middle ear (38) one or more times within a time period (39).

[0043] Movement of the tympanic membrane (35) can stimulate mechanoreceptors, which can alleviate one or more symptoms of a disorder, or treat one or more disorders. In an illustrative example, movement of the tympanic membrane (35) can generate nerve signals, which can reduce the transmission of nociceptive signals to the central nervous system, resulting in analgesic stimulation of the central nervous system. In an additional illustrative example, movement of the tympanic membrane (35) can counteract central nervous system habituation.

[0044] Referring primarily to Figures 8 and 9B, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a first pressure difference amplitude selection element (40) and a first fluid flow generator controller (41) that adjusts the operation of a first fluid flow generator (2) in response to the operation of the first pressure difference amplitude selection element (40) to achieve a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37). In an illustrative embodiment, the first pressure difference amplitude selection element (40) may be configured as a variable resistor (42) such as a resistance control element (43) that can adjust the current by adjusting the resistance of the circuit (the current is inversely proportional to the resistance for a particular voltage). Thus, the resistance control element (43) may be used to adjust the current and control the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) (directly by varying the current to the fluid flow generator (2), or indirectly by analyzing the variation in the current in the circuit and correspondingly generating a fluid flow generator drive signal (44)) to achieve a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37). In a particular embodiment, the resistance control element (43) can be operated to increase the resistance of a circuit coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2), which can reduce the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37). Conversely, the resistance control element (43) can be operated to decrease the resistance of a circuit coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2), which can increase the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37). In a particular embodiment, the resistance control element (43) may include a linear regulator having a linear conductive coil, or a rotary regulator having a conductive coil configured as an annule for reducing volume.

[0045] Referring primarily to Figure 4, the first fluid flow generator (2) can generate a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation (45) that can alternately drive the first fluid flow (8) between a first direction (46) and a second direction (47) of the first fluid flow within the first axial earphone conduit (4). In particular embodiments, the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation (45) can have a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) in the range of 0 Hz to about 10 Hz. However, embodiments can generate a lower or higher first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) depending on the application. With respect to a particular embodiment, the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) or the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) is approximately 0 Hz to 1 Hz, approximately 0.5 Hz to 1.5 Hz, approximately 1 Hz to 2 Hz, approximately 1.5 Hz to 2.5 Hz, approximately 2 Hz to 3 Hz, approximately 2.5 Hz to 3.5 Hz, approximately 3 Hz to 4 Hz, approximately 3.5 Hz to 4.5 Hz, approximately 4 Hz to 5 Hz, and approximately 4. The frequency range can be selected from one or more of the following groups, including or comprising 5 Hz to approximately 5.5 Hz, approximately 5 Hz to approximately 6 Hz, approximately 5.5 Hz to approximately 6.5 Hz, approximately 6 Hz to approximately 7 Hz, approximately 6.5 Hz to approximately 7.5 Hz, approximately 7 Hz to approximately 8 Hz, approximately 7.5 Hz to approximately 8.5 Hz, approximately 8 Hz to approximately 9 Hz, approximately 8.5 Hz to approximately 9.5 Hz, and approximately 9 Hz to approximately 10 Hz.

[0046] One or more first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies (48) (or first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies (49)) may be generated using the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) depending on the method of use, but the biostructure, physiology, or biochemical properties of the user (33) of the ear canal (34); alleviating target disorder symptoms; treating target disorders; one or more first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies (48) (or first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies (49)) in a particular method of use of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) The observable effect of using ) or equivalents; or a combination thereof may be further influenced by factors such as the ability to administer one or more first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies (48) (or first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies (49)) so as to alleviate one or more disorder symptoms or treat one or more disorders, but not to the extent that it causes discomfort to the user (33) or injury to the ear canal (34) or eardrum (35).

[0047] Referring again, primarily to Figures 8 and 9B, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50). A first fluid flow generator controller (41) can adjust the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) in response to the operation of the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50) to achieve a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49). In an illustrative embodiment, the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50) may be configured as a variable resistor (42), such as a resistance control element (43), which may have a similar configuration to the resistance control element (43) described above with respect to the first pressure difference amplitude selection element (40). Fluctuations in the current in the circuit can be analyzed and generate a correspondingly fluctuating fluid flow generator drive signal (44) to modify the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) of the first fluid flow (8). Therefore, as an illustrative embodiment, the resistance control element (43) can be operated to increase the resistance of the circuit coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2), which can decrease the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49). Conversely, the resistance control element (43) can be operated to decrease the resistance of the circuit coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2), which can increase the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49).

[0048] Referring primarily to Figures 8, 9B, 28, 29A, and 29B, the external auditory canal pressure regulating device (1) may further include a fluid flow manifold (51) which is interruptible by the operation of one or more valves (52) to correspondingly alter the configuration of the manifold fluid flow path (54) within the fluid flow manifold (51) and regulate a first fluid flow (8) (or a second fluid flow (20)) within the fluid flow manifold (51). In an illustrative example, the valves (52), which may be useful in a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure regulating device (1), may be solenoid valves such as Lee's High Density Interface (LHD Series) Solenoid Valves, which may be available from The Lee Company (2 Pettipaug Road, Westbrook, CT, 06498, USA).

[0049] The figures schematically illustrate a specific configuration of the fluid flow manifold (51) corresponding to a specific configuration of the manifold fluid passage (54). However, these embodiments do not need to be so limited with respect to the configuration of the fluid flow manifold (51) or the manifold fluid passage (54). Embodiments may include any of a number of configurations that can fluidly couple a first fluid flow generator (2) and a first axial earphone conduit (4) (or a second fluid flow generator (19) and a second axial earphone conduit (13)) whether they are formed as a single unit, molded, 3D printed, or otherwise fabricated, or assembled from multiple parts, or arranged so that one or more valves (52) produce a fluid flow manifold (51) that can be interrupted by the operation of one or more valves (52), whether they are defined as multiple discrete conduits, a single unit manifold, or a housing (125).

[0050] The valve (52) can have any type of valve configuration that operates between a closed state and an open state and can adjust the first fluid flow (8) or the second fluid flow (20) in one direction. The valve (52) can operate between a closed state, which is substantially leak-proof against reverse flow and substantially leak-proof against forward first fluid flow (8) or second fluid flow (20) on both sides of the valve (52), and an open state, which may have a forward flow of about 0.2 ml / sec to about 10 ml / sec with respect to the first fluid flow (8) or second fluid flow (20). With respect to a particular embodiment, the pressure difference between both sides of the valve (52) or the forward first fluid flow (8) or second fluid flow (20) in the open state of the valve (52) can be adjusted by the configuration of the valve (52), the unrestricted cross-sectional area of ​​the manifold fluid passage (54), or equivalent, or a combination thereof. In addition, while the disclosed embodiments of the external auditory canal pressure regulating device (1) can generate a first pressure difference amplitude (36) of up to approximately 50 kilopascals in the first external auditory canal (5) or a second pressure difference amplitude (63) of up to approximately 50 kilopascals in the second external auditory canal (14), these embodiments are not intended to teach or suggest that all embodiments of the external auditory canal pressure regulating device (1) will necessarily achieve the amounts of the first or second pressure difference amplitudes (36)(63). Rather, some embodiments of the external auditory canal pressure regulating device (1) may be configured to achieve below or above the first or second pressure difference amplitudes (36)(63) that are effective in alleviating one or more disorder symptoms or treating one or more disorders.

[0051] Again, primarily referring to Figures 8, 9B, 28, and 29A, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a first pressure relief valve (55) fluidly coupled to a first axial earphone conduit (4). In its open state, the first pressure relief valve (55) allows the first external auditory canal pressure (10) to return towards the ambient pressure (11) from either a first external auditory canal pressure (10) above the ambient pressure (11) or a first external auditory canal pressure (10) below the ambient pressure (11). By operating to relieve the first pressure difference (9) when the first pressure difference amplitude (36) exceeds a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37), the risk of discomfort to the user (33) or injury to the ear canal (34) or eardrum (35) when using the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may be reduced.

[0052] Referring primarily to Figures 8 and 28, the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a first pressure sensor (56) that can generate a first pressure sensor signal (57) which may vary based on a change in a first pressure difference amplitude (36). With respect to a particular embodiment, the pressure sensor (56), which may be useful in a particular embodiment of the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1), may be an EPB miniature pressure probe sensor, which may be available from Measurement Specialties (45738 Northport Loop West, Fremont, CA, 94538, USA).

[0053] The first pressure sensor signal (57) can be transmitted to a first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58), which includes a first pressure difference amplitude comparator (59) that functions to compare a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) with a first pressure difference amplitude (36) actually generated in the first ear canal (5). In an illustrative embodiment, a user (33) can select a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) of about 25 kilopascals using the first pressure difference amplitude selection element ( ) as described above. The first pressure difference amplitude comparator (59) can function to compare the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) of about 25 kilopascals with a first pressure difference amplitude (36) actually generated in the first ear canal (5). When the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) brings about a first pressure difference amplitude (36) of about 25 kilopascals within the first external auditory canal (5) within a tolerable tolerance, the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) can be limited insofar as a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) can be maintained for a selected time period (39).

[0054] In a particular embodiment, the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) can further function to generate a first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal (60). For example, when the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) results in a first pressure difference amplitude (36) that deviates from a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37), the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) can generate a first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal (60) that allows the first fluid flow generator controller (41) to respond and achieve the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37). In an illustrative embodiment, a user (33) can use the first pressure difference amplitude selection element (40) as described above to select a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) of about 25 kilopascals. The operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) may result in a first pressure difference amplitude (36) of about 20 kilopascals within the first ear canal (5), for example, due to improper sealing engagement between the first earphone outer surface (7) and the first ear canal (5). The first pressure difference amplitude comparator (59) may function to compare a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) of about 25 kilopascals with the sensed first pressure difference amplitude (36) of about 20 kilopascals. When the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) results in a first pressure difference amplitude (36) that deviates from a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) (5 kilopascals in this example), the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) can generate a first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal (60) that drives the first fluid flow generator (2) in a corresponding manner, increasing the sensed first pressure difference amplitude (36) by approximately 5 kilopascals to achieve a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) of approximately 25 kilopascals.

[0055] Again, primarily referring to Figures 8 and 28, the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) may further include a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator (61) which may function to compare a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) with a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) sensed by the first pressure sensor (56) in the first ear canal (5). In an illustrative embodiment, a user (33) may, as described above, use the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50) to select a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) of about 5 Hz. The first fluid flow generator controller (2) may, in response to the operation of the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50), adjust the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) to generate a first fluid flow (8) having a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) of about 5 Hz. The first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator (61) can function to compare a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) of approximately 5 Hz with a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) of approximately 5 Hz generated in the first external auditory canal (5). When the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) yields a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) corresponding to the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) within a tolerance, the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) can be continued without compensation as long as the sensed first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) corresponds to the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49).

[0056] In a particular embodiment, the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) can further function to generate a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal (62). For example, if the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) brings a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) into the first ear canal (5) that deviates from a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49), the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) can generate a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal (62) to control the first fluid flow generator (2) and achieve the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49).

[0057] As an illustrative embodiment, a user (33) can establish a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) of about 5 Hz using a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50), as described above. The operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) may result in a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) of about 2.5 Hz in the first ear canal (5), for example, due to improper sealing engagement between the first earphone outer surface (7) and the first ear canal (5). A first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator (61) can function to compare the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) of about 5 Hz with the sensed first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) of about 2.5 Hz. If the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) results in a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) that deviates from a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) (2.5 Hz in this example), the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) drives the first fluid flow generator (2) to increase the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) and generates a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal (62) to achieve a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) of approximately 5 Hz. When the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) results in a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) that corresponds to the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) within the allowable error, the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) can continue without further generation of the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal (62).

[0058] Referring primarily to Figures 2, 3, 5B, 7, 8, and 27 through 29B, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a second earphone (12) having a second earphone outer surface (16) configured to engage in a sealable manner with the second auditory canal (14) of the second ear (15) as a barrier between the second external auditory canal pressure (18) and ambient pressure (11). The second earphone (12) may include a second axial earphone conduit (13). The second earphone (12) may be configured as described above with respect to the first earphone (3).

[0059] Referring primarily to Figures 8 to 10, the second axial earphone conduit (13) can be fluid-coupled in common with the first fluid flow generator (2). Thus, the first fluid flow generator (2) can generate a second pressure difference (17) between the second external auditory canal pressure (18) and the ambient pressure (11), having a second pressure difference amplitude (63) and a second pressure difference oscillation frequency (64) that are substantially similar to, or substantially corresponding to, the first pressure difference amplitude (36) and first pressure difference oscillation frequency (48) described above. In an illustrative embodiment, the first fluid flow generator (2) can generate a first pressure difference (9) and a second pressure difference (17), both having a pressure difference amplitude (36)(63) of approximately 25 kilopascals and a pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48)(64) of approximately 5 Hz. Therefore, the operation of the first fluid flow generator (2) can generate a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4) and between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the second axial earphone conduit (13). In a particular embodiment, the first earphone outer surface (7) can be sealedly engaged with the first ear canal (5), and the second earphone outer surface (16) can be sealedly engaged with the second ear canal (14). The first fluid flow generator (2) can generate a first fluid flow (8) that flows out from the first axial earphone conduit (4) toward the first external auditory canal (5) and from the second axial earphone conduit (13) toward the second external auditory canal (14), thereby generating a first pressure difference (9) having a first external auditory canal pressure (10) above the ambient pressure (11) and a second pressure difference (17) having a second external auditory canal pressure (18) above the ambient pressure (11). Similarly, the first fluid flow generator (2) can be operated to generate a first fluid flow (8) that flows from the first external auditory canal (5) into the first axial earphone conduit (4) and from the second external auditory canal (14) into the second axial earphone conduit (13), thereby generating a first pressure difference (9) having a first external auditory canal pressure (10) below ambient pressure (11) and a second pressure difference (17) having a second external auditory canal pressure (18) below ambient pressure (11).

[0060] With respect to a particular embodiment having first and second axial earphone conduits (4)(13) that are fluid-coupled in common with a first fluid flow generator (2), the first fluid flow generator (2) may be capable of generating a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (64) that is substantially similar to the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) described above.

[0061] Referring primarily to Figures 27 to 35, in a particular embodiment, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may include independent first and second fluid flow generators (2) (19) capable of generating separate first and second fluid flows (8) (20). The second fluid flow generator (19) may be configured to be fluid-coupled to the second axial earphone conduit (13) of the second earphone (12), in a substantially analogous configuration as described above with respect to the first fluid flow generator (1) which is fluid-coupled to the first axial earphone conduit (4). Thus, the second fluid flow generator (19) may be capable of generating a corresponding separate second fluid flow (20) which is independently tuned to generate a second pressure difference (17) having a second pressure difference amplitude (63) and a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (64), all of which may have a substantially analogous range with respect to the first fluid flow (8) described above. In addition, the second fluid flow generator (19) can be operably adjusted by a second pressure difference amplitude selector (53) and a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selector (54), both of which may be substantially similar in configuration to the corresponding first pressure difference amplitude selector (40) and first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selector (50) that operably adjust the first fluid flow generator (2) as described above.

[0062] With respect to a particular embodiment having a second fluid flow generator (19), the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a second pressure relief valve (66) which may have a substantially similar configuration to the first pressure relief valve (55) described above. The second pressure relief valve (66) is fluid-coupled to a second axial earphone conduit (13) and can relieve a second pressure difference (17) exceeding a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (67) of 0 kilopascals to about 50 kilopascals.

[0063] With respect to a particular embodiment having a second fluid flow generator (19), the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a second pressure sensor (68) which may have a substantially similar configuration to the first pressure sensor (56) described above. The second pressure sensor (68) may generate a second pressure sensor signal (69) which may vary based on a change in the second ear canal pressure difference amplitude (63). The second pressure sensor signal analyzer (70), which may have a substantially similar configuration to the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) described above, may include a second pressure difference comparator (71) which functions to compare a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (67) with the sensed second pressure difference amplitude (63). The second pressure sensor signal analyzer (70) can generate a second pressure difference amplitude compensation signal (72), thereby enabling the second fluid flow generator controller (73) to control the second fluid flow generator (19) in response to the second pressure difference compensation signal (72) to achieve a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (63).

[0064] In a particular embodiment, a first fluid flow generator controller (41) and a second fluid flow generator controller (73) can control the corresponding first fluid flow generator (2) and second fluid flow generator (19) in response to signals generated by a plurality of selection elements. As illustrated in the illustrative embodiments of Figures 27 and 28, an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) having a first fluid flow generator (2) and a second fluid flow generator (19) can be configured such that the first fluid flow generator controller (41) can respond to signals generated by a first selection element (187) and a second selection element (189), and the second fluid flow generator controller (73) can respond to signals generated by a third selection element (186) and a fourth selection element (188).

[0065] In a particular embodiment, the second pressure sensor signal analyzer (70) may further include a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator (135) which may function to compare a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (180) with a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (64). The second pressure sensor signal analyzer (70) may generate a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal (181), thereby enabling the second fluid flow generator controller (73) to control the second fluid flow generator (19) in response to the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal (181) to achieve a second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (180).

[0066] Referring primarily to Figure 28, the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) includes a first fluid flow generator (2), a first earphone (3) having a first axial earphone conduit (4) fluid-coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2), and a second earphone (12) having a second axial earphone conduit (13) fluid-coupled to a second fluid flow generator (19). The device can be operated to generate corresponding separate first and second fluid flows (8)(20), namely, a first fluid flow (8) between the first fluid flow generator (2) and the first axial earphone conduit (4) and a second fluid flow (20) between the second fluid flow generator (19) and the second axial earphone conduit (13), thereby generating a first pressure difference (9) in the first ear canal (5) and a second pressure difference (17) in the second ear canal (14).

[0067] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 40, in a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) having the configuration shown in Figures 27 to 35, valves V1, V2, V3L, V3R, V4, and V5 can be in an open state and valves V6, 1L, and 1R can be in a closed state in order to generate a first pressure difference (9) and a second pressure difference (17). In another particular embodiment, in order to generate only a first pressure difference (9) in the first external auditory canal (5), valves V1, V3L, and V4 can be in an open state and valves V2, V3R, V5, V6, 1L, and 1R can be in a closed state. In other specific embodiments, valves V2, V3R, and V5 can be in an open state and valves V1, V3L, V4, V6, 1L, and 1R can be in a closed state in order to generate only a second external auditory canal pressure difference (17) within the second external auditory canal (14).

[0068] With respect to a particular embodiment having a first fluid flow generator (2) and a second fluid flow generator (19), the first and second fluid flow generators (2)(19) each include corresponding first and second pairs of fluid flow generators (74)(75) that are fluid-coupled to first and second axial earphone conduits (4)(13). Each of the first and second pairs of fluid flow generators (74)(75) each includes one positive pressure fluid flow generator (76) and one negative pressure fluid flow generator (77). The positive pressure fluid flow generator (76) can generate first and second fluid flows (8)(20) that flow out from the corresponding first and second axial earphone conduits (4)(13) toward the corresponding first and second ear canals (5)(14). Therefore, the first and second fluid flows (8)(20) can flow into the corresponding first and second ear canals (5)(14), generating corresponding first and second pressure differences (9)(17), thereby allowing the corresponding first and second ear canal pressures (10)(18) to exceed the ambient pressure (11). The negative pressure fluid flow generator (77) can generate first and second fluid flows (8)(20) that flow from the corresponding first and second ear canals (5)(14) into the corresponding first and second axial earphone conduits (4)(13). Therefore, the first and second fluid flows (8)(19) can flow out of the corresponding first and second external auditory canals (5)(14), generating corresponding first and second pressure differences (9)(17), thereby allowing the corresponding first and second external auditory canal pressures (10)(18) to fall below the ambient pressure (11).

[0069] Referring primarily to Figures 8 and 9B, in a particular embodiment, a fluid flow temperature regulator (78) can be fluid-coupled to a first fluid flow generator (2). The fluid flow temperature regulator (78) can be operated to generate a first fluid flow (8) or a second fluid flow (19) having a fluid flow temperature (79) above body temperature (80). The first fluid flow (8) having a fluid flow temperature (79) above body temperature (80) can flow through a first axial earphone conduit (4) or a second axial earphone conduit (13) and flow out from the first axial earphone conduit (4) or the second axial earphone conduit (13) toward the corresponding first or second external auditory canal (5)(14). Thus, the first fluid flow (8) having a fluid flow temperature (79) above body temperature (80) can flow into the first external auditory canal (5) or the second external auditory canal (14).

[0070] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 29A, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a fluid flow temperature regulator (78) fluid-coupled to a first fluid flow (8) and a second fluid flow (20). The fluid flow temperature regulator (78) may be operable to adjust the fluid flow temperature (79) of the first fluid flow (8) or the second fluid flow (19) to be below or above body temperature (80). Typically, the fluid flow temperature (79) can be in the range of 10°C to about 50°C. However, embodiments may have lower or higher fluid flow temperatures (79) depending on the application.

[0071] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 40, in a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) having the configuration shown in Figures 27 to 35, valves V1, V3L, V3R, V4, and 1R can be in an open state and valves V2, V5, V6, and 1L can be in a closed state in order to generate a first pressure difference (9) in the first external auditory canal (5) and to adjust the fluid flow temperature (79) of the second fluid flow (20) in the second external auditory canal (14). In another particular embodiment, valves V2, V3R, V3L, V5, and 1L can be in an open state and valves V1, V4, V6, and 1R can be in a closed state in order to generate a second pressure difference (17) in the second external auditory canal (14) and to adjust the first fluid flow temperature (79) of the first fluid flow (8) in the first external auditory canal (5).

[0072] Referring primarily to Figure 28, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a third fluid flow generator (81) capable of generating a third fluid flow (82) having a third fluid flow rate (83) in the range of 0 to about 10 liters / minute. With respect to a particular embodiment, the third fluid flow generator (81) may be analogous to the first and second fluid flow generators (2)(19) described above. With respect to a particular embodiment, a fluid flow temperature regulator (78) may be fluid-coupled to the third fluid flow generator (81) and capable of operating to regulate the third fluid flow temperature (84) of the third fluid flow (82). A third fluid flow generator (81) is fluid-coupled to the first and second axial earphone conduits (4)(13) and can generate a third fluid flow (82) having a third fluid flow temperature (84) which can be delivered to the first and second external ear canals (5)(14) by the corresponding first and second axial earphone conduits (4)(13).

[0073] Typically, the third fluid flow temperature (84) can be in the range of 10°C to about 50°C. However, embodiments may have lower or higher third fluid flow temperatures (84) depending on the application. With respect to a particular embodiment, the third fluid flow temperature (84) (or the third pre-selected fluid flow temperature) can be selected from one or more of the group including or exceeding about 10°C to about 20°C, about 15°C to about 25°C, about 20°C to about 30°C, about 25°C to about 35°C, about 30°C to about 40°C, about 35°C to about 45°C, and about 40°C to about 50°C.

[0074] One or more third fluid flow temperatures (84) (or a third pre-selected fluid flow temperature) can be generated using the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) depending on the method of use, but may be further influenced by factors such as the biomechanical, physiological, or biochemical properties of the user's (33) ear canal (34); alleviating target disorder symptoms; treating target disorders; observable effects of using one or more third fluid flow temperatures (84) (or a third pre-selected fluid flow temperature) in a particular method of use of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1); or equivalents; or a combination thereof, thereby, one or more third fluid flow temperatures (84) (or a third pre-selected fluid flow temperature) may be effective in alleviating one or more disorder symptoms or treating one or more disorders, but not to the extent of causing discomfort to the user (33) or injury to the ear canal (34) or eardrum (35).

[0075] Typically, the third fluid flow rate (83) can be in the range of 0 liters / min to about 10 liters / min. However, embodiments may have lower or higher third fluid flow rates (83) depending on the application. With respect to a particular embodiment, the third fluid flow rate (83) (or a third pre-selected fluid flow rate) may be selected from one or more of the group including or exceeding the ranges of about 0 liters / min to about 2 liters / min, about 1 liter / min to about 3 liters / min, about 2 liters / min to about 4 liters / min, about 3 liters / min to about 5 liters / min, about 4 liters / min to about 6 liters / min, about 5 liters / min to about 7 liters / min, about 6 liters / min to about 8 liters / min, about 7 liters / min to about 9 liters / min, and about 8 liters / min to about 10 liters / min.

[0076] One or more third fluid flow rates (83) (or a third pre-selected fluid flow rate) can be generated using the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) depending on the method of use, but may be further influenced by factors such as the biomechanical, physiological, or biochemical properties of the user's (33) ear canal (34); alleviating target disorder symptoms; treating target disorders; observable effects of using one or more third fluid flow rates (83) (or a third pre-selected fluid flow rate) in a particular method of use of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1); or equivalents; or a combination thereof, thereby, one or more third fluid flow rates (83) may be an effective amount to alleviate one or more disorder symptoms or to treat one or more disorders, but not to the extent that they cause discomfort to the user (33) or injury to the ear canal (34) or eardrum (35).

[0077] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 29A, a particular embodiment of the ear canal pressure regulating device (1) having a third fluid flow generator (81) may further include a first valved conduit (85) having a first valved conduit valve (86) operable to interrupt the third fluid flow (82) to a first axial earphone conduit (4). In the open state, the first valved conduit valve (86) allows the third fluid flow (82) to flow from the third fluid flow generator (81) toward the first axial earphone conduit (4), and thus toward the first ear canal (5). In the closed state, the first valved conduit valve (86) prevents the third fluid flow (82) from flowing from the third fluid flow generator (81) toward the first axial earphone conduit (4).

[0078] Again, primarily referring to Figures 28 and 29A, a particular embodiment of the ear canal pressure regulating device (1) having a third fluid flow generator (81) further includes a second valved conduit (87) having a second valved conduit valve (88) operable to interrupt the third fluid flow (82) to a second axial earphone conduit (13). In the open state, the second valved conduit valve (88) allows the third fluid flow (82) to flow from the third fluid flow generator (81) toward the second axial earphone conduit (13), and therefore toward the second ear canal (14). In the closed state, the second valved conduit valve (88) prevents the third fluid flow (82) from flowing from the third fluid flow generator (81) toward the second axial earphone conduit (13).

[0079] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 40, in a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) having the configuration shown in Figures 27 to 35, valves V3L, V3R, 1L, 1R, and V6 can be in an open state, and valves V1, V2, V4, and V5 can be in a closed state, in order to generate a third fluid flow (82) having a third fluid temperature (84) and a third fluid flow rate (83) in the first external auditory canal (5) and the second external auditory canal (14). In another particular embodiment, valves V3L, 1L, and V6 can be in an open state, and valves V1, V2, V3R, V4, V5, and 1R can be in a closed state, in order to generate only a third fluid flow (82) having a third fluid temperature (84) and a third fluid flow rate (82) in the first external auditory canal (5). In other specific embodiments, in order to generate only a third fluid flow (82) having a third flow temperature (84) and a third fluid flow rate (83) within the second external auditory canal (14), valves V3R, IR, and V6 can be in an open state, and valves V1, V2, V3L, V4, V5, and 1L can be in a closed state.

[0080] Referring primarily to Figures 8, 9A, 28, and 29B, a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a manifold discharge valve (89) which, when open, may allow a first fluid flow (8) or a second fluid flow (20) to flow out of the fluid flow manifold (51) to the ambient pressure (11), thereby mitigating the first or second pressure difference (9)(17).

[0081] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 40, with respect to a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) having the configuration shown in Figures 27 to 35, valve V6 can be in an open state to discharge fluid from the fluid flow manifold (51), and valves V1, V2, V3L, V3R, V4, V5, 1L, and 1R can be in a closed state.

[0082] Herein, generally referring to Figures 1 to 8 and Figures 11 to 28, embodiments of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may include a first or second earphone (3)(12) having a flexible corresponding first or second earphone outer surface (7)(16) that is configured to engage sealably with a first or second external auditory canal (5)(14) and thus act as a corresponding first or second barrier (102)(103) between the corresponding first or second external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) and ambient pressure (11). Embodiments of the first or second earphone (3)(12) can be configured to engage so tightly with the first or second ear canal (5)(14) to resist axial or lateral displacement and to enable the occurrence and maintenance of a normal operating pressure range of approximately -50 kilopascals below ambient pressure (11) to approximately +50 kilopascals above ambient pressure (11), taking into account normal anatomical variations of the first or second ear canal (5)(14) over a normal operating temperature range of approximately 20°C (approximately 68°F) to approximately 50°C (approximately 122°F).

[0083] Referring primarily to Figures 11 to 18, in particular embodiments, the first or second earphone (3)(12) of the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may be formed from a flexible material that compresses and deforms in response to engagement with the corresponding first or second auditory canal (5)(14), thereby allowing the first or second earphone (3)(12) to conform to the corresponding first or second auditory canal (5)(14) in a sealable manner. In these particular embodiments, the first or second earphone (3)(12) may be formed, molded, 3D printed, or otherwise processed from one of a number of diverse materials, including or consisting of silicone, foam (including polyurethane foam), polyvinylsiloxane, low-hardness elastomer, or equivalent, or a combination thereof, that are sealable to the corresponding first or second auditory canal (5)(14).

[0084] In particular embodiments, the first or second earphone (3)(12) is generally uniform and formed from a single material, which may be, for example, an elastomer of lower hardness. In other particular embodiments, the first or second earphone (3)(12) may be formed from multiple layers, for example, an inner core layer having higher hardness and surrounded by an outer layer having lower hardness, or an inner core layer having lower hardness and surrounded by an outer layer having higher hardness.

[0085] With respect to a particular embodiment, a portion of the first or second earphone outer surface (7)(16) may taper inward from the first end (92) of the earphone as it approaches the second end (93) of the earphone. As an illustrative example of a particular embodiment of this configuration, the first or second earphone outer surface (7)(16) may be configured in a general form of a frustocone that tapers inward as it approaches the second end (93) of the earphone. With respect to a particular embodiment, the first or second earphone outer surface (7)(16) may further include a plurality of circumferential ribs positioned spaced apart between the first end (92) and the second end (93) of the earphone.

[0086] The first or second earphone outer surface (7)(16) can remain sealedly engaged with the corresponding first or second ear canal (5)(14) by frictional force between the first or second earphone outer surface (7)(16) and the corresponding first or second ear canal (5)(14). With respect to a particular embodiment, the first or second earphone outer surface (7)(16) can remain engaged with the corresponding first or second ear canal (5)(14) during normal operation by forcibly pressing against the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1). In other specific embodiments, the retention element (182) can be coupled to an earphone (3)(12) or an ear canal pressure adjustment device (1), which can be fitted inside the ear (6)(15), around the ear (6), around the head (95), or around the neck (183), and can assist in the retention of the earphone (3)(14) inside the ear canal (5)(14).

[0087] Referring primarily to Figures 11 to 18, the retaining element (182) can be provided as an elastic flexible member (182) coupled around the earphone (3)(14). In a particular embodiment, the elastic flexible member (182) can be configured to be positioned within the concha region (183) of the ear (6)(15), which can assist in retaining the earphone (3)(14) within the external auditory canal (5)(14) in response to a forced pressure into the concha region (183). In a particular embodiment, the elastic flexible member (182) can be configured as an arc-shaped annular member (184) having a plurality of radially arranged spokes (185).

[0088] Referring primarily to Figures 8, 9B, 10, 19 through 26, 28, and 29B, in a particular embodiment, the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a fourth fluid flow generator (96) capable of generating a fourth fluid flow (99). The fourth fluid flow generator (96) may be configured in substantially the same manner as the first fluid flow generator (2) or the second fluid flow generator (19), as previously described. The first coaxial earphone conduit (97) may be positioned around the first axial earphone conduit (4), and the second coaxial earphone conduit (98) may be positioned around the second axial earphone conduit (13) (in those embodiments including the second axial earphone conduit (13)). The first and second coaxial earphone conduits (4) and (13) may be fluid-coupled to the fourth fluid flow generator (96). The first elastomer sleeve (100) and the second elastomer sleeve (101) can be configured to provide corresponding first and second earphone outer surfaces (7) (16), which are respectively positioned around the first and second axial earphone conduits (4) (13), and respectively sealably engaged with the first and second ear canals (5) (14), and to provide corresponding first and second barriers (102) (103) between the corresponding first and second ear canal pressures (10) (18) and ambient pressure (11). The first and second elastomer sleeves (100) (101) can be fluidly coupled to the first and second coaxial earphone conduits (97) (98). The fourth fluid flow (99) within the first and second coaxial earphone conduits (97) (98) can generate a corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference (104) (105) between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures (106) (107) and the ambient pressure (11). The first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference (106) (107) can, in correspondence, expand the first and second elastomer sleeves (100) (101) and, in correspondence, be able to engage in a sealable manner with the first and second ear canals (5) (14).

[0089] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 29B, a particular embodiment of the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) having a fourth fluid flow generator (96) may further include a third valved conduit (108) having a third valved conduit valve (109) operable to interrupt the fourth fluid flow (99) to the first coaxial earphone conduit (97). In the open state, the third valved conduit valve (109) allows the fourth fluid flow (99) to flow from the fourth fluid flow generator (96) toward the first coaxial earphone conduit (97), and therefore toward the first elastomer sleeve (100). In the closed state, the third valved conduit valve (109) prevents the fourth fluid flow (99) from flowing from the fourth fluid flow generator (96) toward the first elastomer sleeve (100).

[0090] Again, primarily referring to Figures 28 and 29B, a particular embodiment of the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) having a fourth fluid flow generator (96) may further include a fourth valved conduit (110) having a fourth valved conduit valve (111) operable to interrupt the fourth fluid flow (99) to the second coaxial earphone conduit (98). In the open state, the fourth valved conduit valve (111) allows the fourth fluid flow (99) to flow from the fourth fluid flow generator (96) toward the second coaxial earphone conduit (98), and therefore toward the second elastomer sleeve (101). In the closed state, the fourth valved conduit valve (111) prevents the fourth fluid flow (99) from flowing from the fourth fluid flow generator (96) toward the second elastomer sleeve (101).

[0091] Referring primarily to Figure 28, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a fourth fluid flow generator controller (112) that controls the operation of a fourth fluid flow generator (96) to generate a first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference (104)(105) between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures (106)(107) and the ambient pressure (11), thereby expanding the corresponding first and second elastomer sleeves (100)(101) and engaging them in a sealable manner with the corresponding first and second external auditory canals (5)(14), thereby providing corresponding first and second barriers (102)(103) between the corresponding first and second external auditory canal pressures (10)(18) and the ambient pressure (11).

[0092] Again, primarily referring to Figure 28, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a third pressure sensor (113) fluidly coupled to the first coaxial earphone conduit (97). The third pressure sensor (113) can generate a third pressure sensor signal (114) that fluctuates based on changes in the first coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference (104) between the first coaxial earphone conduit pressure (106) and the ambient pressure (11).

[0093] Again, primarily referring to Figure 28, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a fourth pressure sensor (115) fluidly coupled to a second coaxial earphone conduit (98). The fourth pressure sensor (115) can generate a fourth pressure sensor signal (116) that fluctuates based on changes in the second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference (105) between the second coaxial earphone conduit pressure (107) and the ambient pressure (11).

[0094] Referring primarily to Figure 28, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a coaxial earphone conduit pressure sensor signal analyzer (117) that functions to identify stable first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure differences (104) (105) between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures (106) (107) and the ambient pressure (11). The coaxial earphone conduit pressure sensor signal analyzer (117) may generate a seal signal (118) in response to the occurrence of stable first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure differences (104) (105).

[0095] Referring primarily to Figures 6, 8, 9A, and 28, a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include an elastomer sleeve seal indicator (119) that responds to a seal signal (118). The elastomer sleeve seal indicator (119) may generate a sensory-perceptible mark (120) in response to the reception of the seal signal (118). The sensory-perceptible mark (120) may include one or more of the following: a sonic mark, a luminous mark, a tactile mark, or equivalent, or a combination thereof.

[0096] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 29B, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include third and fourth pressure relief valves (121) (122) fluidly coupled to the first and second coaxial earphone conduits (97) (98). When open, the third and fourth pressure relief valves (121) (122) can, in correspondence, relieve the first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference (104) (105) between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures (106) (107) and the ambient pressure (11).

[0097] Referring primarily to Figure 8, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a pressure release selection element (123). A fourth fluid flow generator controller (112) can, in response to the operation of the pressure release selection element (123), restrict the operation of the fourth fluid flow generator (96), operate the third and fourth pressure relief valves (121)(122), and accordingly return the first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure difference (104)(105) between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures (106)(107) and the ambient pressure (11) toward the ambient pressure (11), thereby contracting the corresponding first and second elastomer sleeves (100)(101).

[0098] Hereinafter, we refer to Figures 37A to 39E, which provide graphs of pressure regulation profiles (136) that can be administered by embodiments of an external auditory canal pressure regulation device (1) that are effective in alleviating one or more disorder symptoms or in treating one or more disorders. Each graph shows the pressure difference (9)(17) between the external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) and the ambient pressure (11) achieved over a time period (39). With respect to a particular embodiment, a fluid flow generator (2)(19) can be operated to generate a fluid flow (8)(20) that flows out from the axial earphone conduit (4)(13) toward the external auditory canal (5)(14) over a time period (39), resulting in positive external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) relative to the ambient pressure (11) (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 37A to 37G). In other specific embodiments, the fluid flow generator (2)(19) can be operated to generate a fluid flow (8)(20) over a time period (39) that flows from the external auditory canal (5)(14) toward the fluid flow generator (2)(19) into the axial earphone conduit (4)(13) and results in a negative external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) relative to the ambient pressure (11) (as shown in the embodiments in Figures 38A to 38G).

[0099] Referring primarily to Figures 37A and 38A, the fluid flow generator (2)(19) can be operated to maintain a constant external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) over a time period (39). In particular embodiments, the constant external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) can be maintained as a fluid volume (21) within the external auditory canal (5)(14) over a time period (39) without (or substantially without) a fluid flow (8)(20). As an illustrative embodiment, as described above, an ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) having an earphone outer surface (7)(16) that is sealably engaged within the ear canal (5)(14) is operated by the control of a fluid flow generator (2)(19) that generates a fluid flow (2)(19) with a fluid volume (21) or a pre-selected fluid volume (22) between the fluid flow generator (2)(19) and the ear canal (5)(14) through the axial earphone conduit (4)(13) of the earphone (3)(12), thereby achieving a pressure difference (9)(17) between the ear canal pressure (10)(18) and the ambient pressure (11). Once a desired fluid volume (21) or a pre-selected fluid volume (22) establishes a pressure difference (9)(17), the pressure difference (9)(17) can be maintained for a time period (39) without, or substantially without, additional fluid flow (8)(20) resulting from the sealable engagement between the earphone outer surface (7)(16) and the ear canal (5)(14). In other embodiments, once a desired pressure difference (9)(17) is achieved, the pressure difference (9)(17) can be maintained for a time period (39) by additional fluid flow (8)(20) into or from the ear canal (5)(14) to compensate for leakage centered on the engagement between the earphone outer surface (7)(16) and the ear canal (5)(14). In other embodiments, the external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) can be maintained for a time period (39) by a continuous fluid flow (8)(20) into the external auditory canal (5)(14).

[0100] Regardless of the method, the external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) can be kept constant for a time period (39) within the range of approximately +50 kilopascals above ambient pressure (11) to approximately -50 kilopascals below ambient pressure (11) to alleviate one or more disorder symptoms or to treat one or more disorders. Positive external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) relative to ambient pressure (11) can be achieved by maintaining the external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) within the range of approximately 0 kilopascals to approximately +50 kilopascals above ambient pressure (11). Alternatively, negative external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) relative to ambient pressure (11) can be achieved by maintaining the external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) within the range of approximately -50 kilopascals to approximately 0 kilopascals below ambient pressure (11).

[0101] Referring primarily to Figures 37B to 37G, 38B to 38G, and 39A to 39E, the fluid flow generator (2)(19) can be configured to generate a fluid flow (8)(20) having a pressure difference wave (124) that defines a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37)(67) and a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49)(180) for each instant within a time period (39). In a particular embodiment, the fluid flow generator (2)(19) can be operated to generate a fluid flow (8)(20) that flows out from the axial earphone conduit (4)(13) toward the ear canal (5)(14) over a time period (39), having a pressure difference wave (124) including a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37)(67) and a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49)(180), resulting in a positive external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) relative to the ambient pressure (11) (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 37B to 37G).

[0102] In other specific embodiments, the fluid flow generator (2)(19) can be operated to generate a fluid flow (8)(20) that flows from the ear canal (5)(14) toward the fluid flow generator (2)(19) into the axial earphone conduit (4)(13) over a time period (29), having a pressure difference wave (124) including a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37)(67) and a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49)(180), resulting in a negative ear canal pressure (10)(18) relative to the ambient pressure (11) (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 38B to 38G).

[0103] In other specific embodiments, the fluid flow generator (2)(19) can be operated to generate a fluid flow (8)(20) which may alternate between outflow from the axial earphone conduit (4)(13) to the ear canal (5)(14) and outflow from the ear canal (5)(14) to the fluid flow generator (2)(19) over a time period (39), having a pressure difference wave (124) including a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37)(67) and a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49)(180), resulting in the generation of an ear canal pressure (10)(18) alternating between positive and negative ear canal pressures (10)(18) with respect to ambient pressure (11) (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 39A to 39E).

[0104] In other specific embodiments, the pressure difference wave (124) can oscillate at a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49)(180) within a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37)(67) in the range of 0 kilopascals to approximately +50 kilopascals above the ambient pressure (11) (as shown in the embodiments in Figures 37B to 37G).

[0105] In other specific embodiments, the pressure difference wave (124) can oscillate at a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49)(180) within a range of approximately -50 kilopascals to 0 kilopascals below the ambient pressure (11) (as shown in the embodiments in Figures 38B to 38G).

[0106] Again, referring mainly to Figures 37B to 37G, Figures 38B to 38G, and Figures 39A to 39E, the pressure difference wave (124) can have a number of different waveforms corresponding to a number of different disorder symptoms or disorders that can be treated by the operation of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1), depending on the application. As illustrative examples, the pressure difference wave (124) can be a sine wave with smooth, repetitive periodic oscillation (as shown in the examples of Figures 37B, 38B, and 39A), a square wave, rectangular wave, a trapezoidal wave or frustum of a pressure difference wave (124) having a constant pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37)(67) over a time period (39), or a triangular wave with linear leading and trailing edges (as shown in the examples of Figures 37C, 37F, 38C, 38F, and 39B). The waveform can be a sawtooth wave (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 37E and 39D), having a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37)(67) where the leading edge changes over a longer time period (39) compared to the trailing edge (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 38D and 39C); an inverse sawtooth wave (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 37E and 39E), where the leading edge changes over a shorter time period (39) compared to the trailing edge (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 37G and 38G); or a combination thereof (as shown in the embodiments of Figures 37G and 38G).

[0107] Referring primarily to Figures 6, 7, 9A, 9B, and 29A through 35, in a particular embodiment, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a housing (125) having an internal housing surface (126) that defines a hollow internal space (127) in which components of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) can be housed.

[0108] The fluid flow generator (2)(19) of the aforementioned external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) typically delivers a fluid flow (8)(20) of air to the external auditory canal (5)(14) to achieve a pressure difference (9)(17) between the external auditory canal pressure (10)(18) and the ambient pressure (11). This is not intended to limit the range of fluids that may be delivered to the external auditory canal (5)(14) by embodiments of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1). Illustrative examples may include purified gases such as oxygen, nitrogen, argon, or equivalents; mixtures of partial pressures of gases; liquids such as water, oil, alcohol, or equivalents; or combinations thereof.

[0109] In addition, the transfer of fluid flow (8)(20)(82)(99) (or other fluid flow) or fluid volume (21)(22) between the components of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1), between the components of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) and the external auditory canal (5)(14), or between the components of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) and the ambient pressure (11) may typically be described as occurring between a first point and a second point, but the transfer of fluid flow (8)(20)(82)(99) (or other fluid flow) or fluid volume (21)(22) may include any point in the manifold fluid passage (54) between the first point and the second point.

[0110] Referring primarily to Figures 8 and 28, embodiments of the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a controller (128). The controller (128) may, in a particular embodiment, take the form of a single integrated circuit (129) containing a processor (130) that communicates with a memory element (131). The memory element (131) may take the form of a non-volatile computer storage medium that can be erased and reprogrammed, and in a particular embodiment, is a random-access memory for data storage. The memory element (131) may contain computer code (132) executable to provide a set of functions or combinations of steps for performing a set of functions for operating the various components of the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) according to the embodiments of the present invention described above.

[0111] The block diagrams and flowcharts shown in Figures 8 and 28 support combinations of elements for performing a defined function, combinations of steps for performing a defined function, and executable program elements for performing a defined function. It will also be understood that each functional block in the block diagrams and flowcharts, as well as combinations of functional blocks within the block diagrams and flowcharts, can be implemented by either a special-purpose hardware-based computer system or a preferred combination of special-purpose hardware and computer instructions to perform the defined function or step.

[0112] Referring primarily to Figure 8, the computer code (132) may include a first fluid flow generator controller (41) which can convert a pressure difference amplitude selection signal (133) received from a first fluid pressure difference amplitude selection element (40) and, accordingly, control a first fluid flow generator (2) to produce a first fluid flow (8) flowing out of a first axial earphone conduit (4). In a particular embodiment, the first fluid flow generator controller (41) increases or decreases the first fluid flow (8) based on fluctuations in the pressure difference amplitude selection signal (133). In another embodiment, the first fluid pressure difference amplitude selection element (40) may be used to select a pre-selected fluid volume (22), and the first fluid flow generator controller (41) may, accordingly, control the first fluid flow generator (2) to deliver the aforementioned pre-selected fluid volume (22).

[0113] With respect to a particular embodiment of an ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) including a first pressure sensor (56), the computer code (132) can further include a first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58), which can be configured to provide a first pressure difference amplitude comparator (59) that functions to compare a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) selected by user interaction with a pressure difference amplitude selection element (40) with a first pressure difference amplitude (36) sensed within a first axial earphone conduit (4). The first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) can further be configured to provide a first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal (60) that varies based on the difference between the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37) and the sensed first pressure difference amplitude (36). A first fluid flow generator controller (41) can control a first fluid flow generator (2) in response to the first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal (60) to achieve a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37).

[0114] Again, primarily referring to Figure 8, the first fluid flow generator controller (41) can further convert the pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection signal (134) received from the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50) and, accordingly, control the first fluid flow generator (2) to produce a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation (45) that alternately drives the first fluid flow (8) between a first direction (46) and a second direction (47) of the first fluid flow within the first axial earphone conduit (4).

[0115] In a particular embodiment, the first fluid flow generator controller (41) varies the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) based on the variation of the pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection signal (134). In another embodiment, the first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50) can be used to select a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49), and the first fluid flow generator controller (41) can correspondingly control the first fluid flow generator (2) to deliver the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) within the aforementioned range.

[0116] With respect to a particular embodiment of an external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) including a first pressure sensor (56), the first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) can further be configured to provide a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator (61) that functions to compare a first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude frequency (49) selected by user interaction with a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency selection element (50) with a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48) sensed within the first axial earphone conduit (4). The first pressure sensor signal analyzer (58) can further be configured to provide a first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency compensation signal (62) that varies based on the difference between the first pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49) and the sensed first pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (48). The first fluid flow generator controller (41) can control the first fluid flow generator (2) in response to the first pressure difference amplitude compensation signal (62) to achieve a first pre-selected pressure difference frequency (49).

[0117] With respect to a particular embodiment of the first fluid flow generator (2), as shown in the illustrative embodiments in Figures 8 and 9B, the first fluid flow generator controller (41) can indirectly control the function of the first fluid flow generator (2) by controlling the movement of a linear actuator (30) coupled to a piston (26) that is movable within the barrel (27), as described above.

[0118] With respect to a particular embodiment as shown in the illustrative examples in Figures 28, 29A, and 29B, the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may include, as described above, a first fluid flow generator (2) which operates to deliver a first fluid flow (8) to a first axial earphone conduit (4), and a second fluid flow generator (19) which operates to deliver a distant second fluid flow (20) to a second axial earphone conduit (13) sensed by a second pressure sensor (68). Correspondingly, the computer code (132) may further include a second fluid flow generator controller (73), a second pressure difference amplitude comparator (71), and a second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency comparator (135), which may function to control the operation of the second fluid flow generator (19), enabling independent control of the second pressure difference amplitude (63) and the second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (64) in the second axial earphone conduit (13) as described above with respect to the first fluid flow generator (2), and a second pressure sensor signal analyzer (70).

[0119] Again, primarily referring to Figures 28, 29A, and 29B, the first fluid flow generator (2) and the second fluid flow generator (19) can each include a positive fluid flow generator (76) and a negative fluid flow generator (77), respectively, which can be controlled independently to achieve first and second pressure difference amplitudes (36)(63) and first and second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies (48)(64). Thus, the first and second fluid flow generator controllers (41)(73) can independently control each positive fluid flow generator (76) and each negative fluid flow generator (77) of the first and second fluid flow generators (2)(19) to achieve first and second pressure difference amplitudes (36)(63) and first and second pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequencies (48)(64).

[0120] Referring primarily to Figures 28, 37A to 37G, 38A to 38G, and 39A to 39E, a particular embodiment of the computer code (132) further includes a timer module (137) that responds to a time period selection element (190), and a pressure adjustment profile administration module (138) that responds to a pressure adjustment profile selection element (139), enabling the selection of one of a plurality of pressure adjustment profiles (136) contained within a memory element (131), as described above and shown in the figures, or otherwise programmed and contained within the memory element (131). The pressure adjustment profile administration module (138) functions to coordinate the operation of the first and second fluid flow generators (2)(19) to achieve a first or second pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37)(67) corresponding to each time point in the selected time period (39) of the plurality of pressure adjustment profiles (136).

[0121] Referring primarily to Figures 8 and 28, in a particular embodiment, the computer code (132) may further include a fluid flow temperature controller (140) which functions to control a fluid temperature regulator (78) and adjust the fluid flow temperature (79) of a first or second fluid flow (8)(20). In the illustrative embodiment shown in Figure 8, the fluid flow temperature controller (140) activates the fluid flow temperature regulator (78) and increases the fluid flow temperature (78) of the first fluid flow (8) for a time period (39) in response to the activation of the first fluid flow generator (2).

[0122] In the illustrative embodiment shown in Figure 28, the fluid flow temperature controller (140) can convert the fluid flow temperature selection signal (141) received from the fluid flow temperature selection element (142) and, accordingly, control the fluid flow temperature controller (78) to adjust the fluid flow temperature (79) of the third fluid flow (82) to within the aforementioned range of approximately 10°C to 50°C. In these embodiments, the computer code (132) may further include a third fluid flow controller (143) that functions to control the third fluid flow (82) from the third fluid flow generator (81) to a third fluid flow rate (83) of 0 to approximately 10 liters / minute as described above.

[0123] Referring primarily to Figures 8 and 28, the computer code (132) may further include a fourth fluid flow generator controller (112) capable of controlling a fourth fluid flow generator (96) as described above, causing a first elastomer sleeve (100) or a second elastomer sleeve (101) to expand, which is fluid-coupled to a first or second coaxial earphone conduit (97)(98), and which, accordingly, engages in a sealable manner with a first or second ear canal (5)(14), providing corresponding first or second barriers (102)(103) between the corresponding first or second ear canal pressure (10)(18) and ambient pressure (11). In these embodiments, the computer code (132) may further include a coaxial earphone conduit pressure sensor signal analyzer (117) capable of identifying stable first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure differences (104) (105) between the corresponding first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressures (106) (107) and the ambient pressure (11). A third pressure sensor signal analyzer (117) may generate a seal signal (118) in response to the occurrence of stable first and second coaxial earphone conduit pressure differences (104) (105), and generate a sensory-perceptible mark (120) as described above. In these embodiments, the computer code (132) may further include a seal release module (144) capable of operating the pressure relief valves (121) (122) as described above in response to the operation of a seal release selection element (145).

[0124] Here, primarily referring to Figure 40, the computer code (132) further includes a valve control module (146) that can actuate one or more of the valves (52) depending on a selected method of administering a fluid flow (8)(20)(82)(99) within the embodiment of the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) as described above.

[0125] Referring primarily to Figures 28 and 32, certain embodiments may further include a graphical display surface (147), and the computer program (132) may further include a graphical user interface module (148) which may be executed to display a graphical user interface (149) on the graphical display surface (147). The graphical user interface (149) may, through user interaction, execute the functions of the computer code (132) and operate the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1). User interaction may typically take the form of touch by the user (33) on a control image (150) displayed on the graphical display surface (147), but this illustrative embodiment is not intended to exclude any commands by the user (33) which may be activated, executed, or performed through the selection of one or more control images (150), or whether by user voice commands, keyboard keystrokes, mouse buttons, or otherwise.

[0126] Referring primarily to Figures 1 and 2, certain embodiments may further include a computer device (151) located away from the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1). The term “computer device (151)” means, for the purposes of the present invention, any device adapted to receive computer code (132) or a machine-readable medium (152) containing computer code (132), or includes a computer processor (153) communicating with a computer memory element (154) adapted to communicate with the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1), or downloads computer code (132) through one or more local area networks (157) into a wide area network (155) such as the Internet (156) or into the computer memory element (154) communicating with the computer processor (153). With respect to certain embodiments, the computer device (151) may take the form of a limited-capacity computer specifically designed to receive the machine-readable medium (152) in the form of a computer memory element (154) containing computer code (132). However, other embodiments may take the form of a set-top box, an intelligent television connected to receive data through entertainment media such as a cable television network or digital satellite broadcast, a smartphone, a slate or pad computer, a personal digital assistant or camera / mobile phone, or a handheld device such as a multiprocessor system, a microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronic device, a network personal computer, a minicomputer, a mainframe computer, or equivalent.

[0127] Again, primarily referring to Figures 1 and 2, the computer device (151) may comprise one or more computer devices, each operated by a user (33) and capable of controlling one or more external auditory canal pressure adjustment devices (1). The user (33) may be one person, multiple people, an entity, or other, who can access the computer device (151) to read in a common format in order to display a graphic user interface (149) on a computer graphical display surface (147).

[0128] In a particular embodiment, the controller (128) of the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a communications controller (158), which may include a transceiver (159) associated with an antenna (160) for sending and receiving communications signals (161) to and from a computer device (151). In a particular embodiment, the communications controller (158) may be a Bluetooth® controller (e.g., Texas Instruments CC2540 Bluetooth® System-on-Chip), which includes an associated Bluetooth® transceiver and Bluetooth® antenna. In a particular embodiment, the communications controller (158) may be a Wi-Fi controller, as well as an associated Wi-Fi receiver and Wi-Fi antenna.

[0129] Referring primarily to Figures 36A and 36B, an illustrative embodiment of the graphical user interface (149) includes: a first ear control image (163), a second ear control image (164), or both the first and second ear control images (165), which allow user interaction to select the administration of a first fluid flow (8), a second fluid flow (20), or both the first and second fluid flows (8)(20) to the corresponding first and second axial earphone conduits (4)(13); a pressure adjustment profile control image (166), which enables user interaction to produce a list of selectable pressure adjustment profile icons (167) (as shown in the embodiment of Figure 36B), which allows user interaction to produce a list of selectable pressure adjustment profile icons (167) (as shown in the embodiment of Figure 36B), which allows user interaction to select a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude (37), which is a selectable pressure difference amplitude control image. The system may include: an external auditory canal pressure difference amplitude control image (168) that generates a list of images through user interaction; an external auditory canal pressure difference frequency control image (170) that generates a list of selectable pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency control images that enables the user interaction to select a pre-selected pressure difference amplitude oscillation frequency (49); a time-period control image (172) that generates a list of selectable time-period control images that enables the user interaction to select a time period (39) for administration or treatment; or a mode selection list (162) that enables the user interaction to select one or more of the temperature-controlled fluxes, including a temperature-controlled icon (174) and a fluid flux (83) for administration of fluid flow temperature (79).

[0130] Referring primarily to Figures 8 and 28, an embodiment of the auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include a power source (177), which may be one or a combination of a converted power source (178), such as 110 volts AC converted to 12 volts DC, or a battery (179), such as a 12 volts DC battery.

[0131] A method for producing a particular embodiment of the ear canal pressure adjustment device (1) may include the steps of providing a first fluid flow generator (2) capable of generating a first fluid flow (8), and providing a first earphone (3) having a first axial earphone conduit (4) communicating between a first end (92) and a second end (93) of the first earphone. The first axial earphone conduit (4) may be fluid-coupled to the first fluid flow generator (2). The first earphone (3) may have a first flexible earphone outer surface (7) configured to engage in a sealable manner with the first ear canal (5) of the first ear (6) as a first barrier (102) between a first ear canal pressure (10) and ambient pressure (11).

[0132] A method for producing a particular embodiment of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) may further include the step of providing additional components of the external auditory canal pressure adjustment device (1) as described above.

[0133] As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concept of the present invention may be embodied in various ways. The present invention includes numerous and varied embodiments of auditory canal pressure regulating devices and methods for manufacturing and using such auditory canal pressure regulating devices, including in the best mode.

[0134] Accordingly, specific embodiments or elements of the Invention disclosed in the description or shown in the figures or tables accompanying this application are not intended to be limiting, but rather are intended to be examples of the many diverse embodiments or equivalents encompassed by the Invention in general, or with respect to any particular element thereof. In addition, the specific description of a single embodiment or element of the Invention may not explicitly describe all possible embodiments or elements. Many alternatives are implicitly disclosed in the description and figures.

[0135] It should be understood that each element of the apparatus or each step of the method may be described by apparatus terminology or method terminology. Such terms may be substituted, if desired, to clarify the implicitly broad scope of application to which the invention is entitled. As just one example, it should be understood that the entire step of the method may be disclosed as an action, means for performing that action, or an element that causes that action. Similarly, each element of the apparatus may be disclosed as a physical element, or an action facilitated by a physical element. As just one example, it should be understood that the disclosure “fluid flow” includes the disclosure of the action of “causing the fluid to flow,” whether or not it is explicitly discussed. Conversely, if there is a de facto disclosure of “causing the fluid to flow,” it should be understood that such disclosure includes the disclosure of “fluid flow” and further “means for causing the fluid to flow.” Such alternative terms for each element or step should be understood to be explicitly included in the description.

[0136] Furthermore, with respect to each term used, it should be understood that, unless its use in this application contradicts such interpretation, the definitions in general dictionaries are included in the descriptions of each term in Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, second edition, whose definitions are incorporated herein by reference.

[0137] All numerical values ​​in this specification, whether expressly indicated or not, are assumed to be modified by the term “approximately.” For the purposes of the present invention, a range may be expressed as “approximately” from one particular value to “approximately” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes one particular value to another particular value. An enumeration of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numerical values ​​that are contained within that range. The numerical range from 1 to 5 includes, for example, the numerical values ​​1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, etc. Furthermore, it should be understood that each endpoint of a range is significant both in relation to and independently of the other endpoints. When a value is expressed as an approximation by the use of the antecedent “approximately,” it will be understood that a particular value forms another embodiment. The term “approximately” generally refers to a range of numerical values ​​that a person skilled in the art would consider to be equivalent to, or having the same function or result as, the numerical values ​​listed. Similarly, the antecedent “substantially” means, broadly but not entirely, the same form, style, or degree, and that certain elements will have a range of configurations that a person skilled in the art would consider to have the same function or result. When certain elements are represented as an approximation using the antecedent “substantially,” it will be understood that those elements form a different embodiment.

[0138] Furthermore, for the purposes of the present invention, the terms "a" or "an" entities refer to one or more of those entities, unless otherwise limited. Accordingly, the terms "a" or "an," "one or more," and "at least one" may be used interchangeably herein.

[0139] Accordingly, the applicant should be understood to claim at least i) ear canal pressure adjustment devices disclosed and described herein, ii) related methods disclosed and described herein, iii) analogues, equivalents, and implicit modifications of each of these devices and methods, iv) alternative embodiments thereof that achieve each of the illustrated, disclosed, or described functions, v) alternative designs and methods thereof that achieve each of the indicated functions, which are implicitly to achieve those disclosed and described herein, vi) each feature, component, and step shown as a separate and independent invention, vii) applications enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed herein, viiii) resulting products produced by such systems or components, ix) methods and apparatus substantially described herein in relation to any of the accompanying embodiments, and x) various combinations and permutations of each of the aforementioned elements disclosed herein.

[0140] The Background section of this patent application describes the field of business to which the present invention pertains. This section may also incorporate or include paraphrases of certain U.S. patents, patent applications, publications, or the subject matter of the present invention that are useful in relating information, issues, or concerns about the current state of the art to what the present invention derives. It is not intended that any U.S. patent, patent application, publication, description, or other information cited or incorporated herein be read, interpreted, or deemed to be prior art relating to the present invention.

[0141] The claims described herein, where applicable, are incorporated herein by reference as part of this description of the invention, and the Applicant expressly reserves the right to use all or part of the incorporated content of such claims as supplementary explanation supporting any part or all of the claims or any elements or components thereof, and further, as necessary, the Applicant expressly reserves the right to move any part or all of the incorporated content of such claims or any elements or components thereof from the description to the claims or vice versa, and to specify the matters for which protection is sought by this application or any subsequent application or continuation, division or continuation-in-part application, or to obtain any benefit of any national or treaty patent law, rule or regulation, reduction of fees equivalent thereto, or the right to comply therewith, and such incorporated content by reference shall survive throughout the entire pendency of this application, including any subsequent continuation, division or continuation-in-part application or any reissue or extension thereof.

[0142] In addition, the claims described herein are intended, where applicable, to further describe the boundaries of a limited number of preferred embodiments of the Invention and should not be construed as the broadest embodiments of the Invention or a complete list of claimable embodiments of the Invention. The applicant does not waive any right to develop any claims based on the description above as part of any continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application or similar application.

Claims

[Claim 1] A fluid transfer device for the treatment of neurological disorders, wherein the fluid transfer device is A fluid flow generator configured to generate a fluid flow between the earphone and the ear canal, A processor configured to receive user input, wherein the user input includes a symptom rank value, and A fluid transfer device equipped with the following features.

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