Ear system for arrangement in an ear

Abstract

place in the ear canal and wear it there during use. This can be done for aesthetic reasons, since such a system is barely visible from the outside, which is desired by many users. Furthermore, devices worn in the ear canal can be adapted to the unique shape of each user's ear, which not only increases comfort but also ensures that the device remains securely in place, thereby reducing the risk of it falling out during daily activities.

Description

[0001] Ear system for placement in one ear

[0002] There are many reasons for placing a system like a hearing aid, or parts of it, in the ear canal and wearing it there during use. This can be for aesthetic reasons, as such a system is barely visible from the outside, which is desirable for many users. Furthermore, devices worn in the ear canal can be adapted to the unique shape of each user's ear, which not only increases comfort but also ensures that the device stays securely in place, reducing the risk of it falling out during daily activities.

[0003] With hearing aids, it is advantageous to place a loudspeaker as close as possible to the eardrum, for example, in the ear canal. Furthermore, sound pickup by a microphone deep in the ear canal results in a more natural sound perception, as the directional properties of the outer ear are preserved. Some systems are designed to position a component on the eardrum (eardrum component). A challenge with this category of systems is that, in certain situations, it must be possible to connect other modules to the eardrum component, for example, to transmit power and / or signals to it.

[0004] A component placed in the ear canal (hereinafter referred to as an ear canal component) can therefore fulfill a variety of functions. However, its use presents various challenges. One of the main problems with such an ear canal component is comfort and fit. Devices that are not perfectly tailored to a person's ear can cause discomfort or irritation, which can lead to pressure sores or even infections.

[0005] In contrast to this property, a strong anchoring of the ear canal component in the ear canal is necessary to prevent unwanted slippage or falling out of the component.

[0006] Furthermore, the care of such ear canal components presents its own challenges. Regular cleaning or replacement of individual components is necessary to prevent infections or irritation caused by dirt and earwax. However, the small size of ear canal components and their placement in the sensitive ear canal make maintenance difficult.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a system that overcomes the aforementioned problems. This object is achieved by the ear system according to claim 1. The dependent claims specify advantageous embodiments of the ear system according to the invention. The present invention relates to a system (hereinafter also referred to as the overall system, even if it may have further components beyond those mentioned), at least one essential subcomponent of which is intended for placement in the ear canal (ear canal component).

[0008] Advantageously, the ear canal component is held in the ear canal by an optional retention structure, which is part of the ear canal component. In this case, the ear canal component has at least two subcomponents: the retention structure and a core that is held in the ear canal by the retention structure and may contain further components and / or parts.

[0009] The overall system also optionally includes another component that is positioned on the eardrum and remains in that position for a longer period of time (eardrum component).

[0010] An optional connecting cable or other method of connection between the ear canal component and the eardrum component allows energy and / or signals to be exchanged between the two components.

[0011] In addition, the overall system can have another optional component, an external module, which is suitable for supplying signals and / or energy to the ear canal component and / or the eardrum component via a suitable interface.

[0012] Placing components directly on the eardrum in the form of a tympanic membrane component offers possibilities for improved listening experiences and / or health monitoring. For example, the use of sound-receiving and / or sound-emitting components on the eardrum can enhance the sound experience of hearing aids. Modules such as actuators in tympanic membrane contact hearing aids can, for instance, transmit audio signals directly to the eardrum in the form of vibrations. Such modules are advantageously worn in the ear canal for extended periods. Possible configurations of such a module, or parts thereof, include a balanced armature receiver, MEMS micro-speaker, piezoelectric, electromagnetic, electrodynamic, or electrostatic loudspeaker, or another type of actuator.Sound can be generated, for example, electrostatically, electrodynamically, electromagnetically, or piezoelectrically. Other possible components whose placement on the eardrum is advantageous include modules for targeted drug delivery, accelerometers, pressure sensors, or sensors for monitoring physiological parameters or the environment.

[0013] Since the tympanic membrane component is used in a potentially moist biological environment, it is advantageous if the electrical voltages applied to the tympanic membrane component and / or parts thereof, which may advantageously be direct current voltages, are less than 5 volts, preferably less than 4.3 volts, and particularly preferably less than 1.3 volts. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible to encapsulate the tympanic membrane component and / or parts thereof in a liquid-tight and / or electrically insulating manner, so that it does not come into contact with any liquid that may surround the tympanic membrane component.

[0014] It is preferred that the eardrum component has a minimum diameter smaller than the minimum diameter of the eardrum and / or a maximum diameter smaller than the maximum diameter of the eardrum. In this way, by appropriately orienting the eardrum component, it can rest completely on the eardrum without touching its edge. Preferably, these dimensions can be individually adapted to the dimensions of the eardrum of the person in whom the eardrum component is to be worn. However, it is also possible to adapt these dimensions to the average dimensions of eardrums of people of a corresponding age group or other categorized group.

[0015] Advantageously, for example, the largest diameter of the tympanic membrane component can be less than or equal to 12 mm, particularly preferably less than or equal to 10 mm, particularly preferably less than or equal to 9 mm, and particularly preferably less than or equal to 7 mm. Advantageously, the smallest diameter of the tympanic membrane component can also be greater than or equal to 3 mm, preferably greater than or equal to 5 mm.

[0016] The connecting cable can be used to transmit, for example, energy, audio signals, control signals, configuration data, status data, sensor data, and / or other data from the ear canal component to the eardrum component. Transmission in the reverse direction, from the eardrum component to the ear canal component, can also be advantageous within the scope of the invention. The ear canal component, eardrum component, and / or connecting cable can be permanently or detachably connected to one another.

[0017] The optional connecting cable can have or be at least one electrical conductor for transmitting electrical signals and / or power, and / or at least one optical fiber for transmitting optical signals and / or power, or at least contain such an electrical conductor and / or optical fiber. Such a conductor can be made of any conceivable electrically conductive material, such as metals, in particular aluminum, copper, silver, gold, iridium, or an alloy thereof. Several wires can also be combined to form a single strand, for example, to modify the flexibility of the conductor and the connecting cable.

[0018] An optical waveguide that is part of or forms part of the connecting cable preferably comprises a material that absorbs light of the wavelengths to be transmitted only to a small extent. Typical materials here are quartz glass or a plastic.

[0019] The connecting cable can advantageously have or be a hose. The hose is preferably made of a chemically resistant, electrically insulating, and / or mechanically flexible material. Preferably, the hose is made of or consists of polyamide, but it can also be made of silicone or another material. The hose can be filled with air or another material in at least one lumen. At least one wire and / or at least one optical fiber can be arranged in the at least one lumen of the hose.

[0020] The connecting cable can advantageously have a sheathing material that encloses the at least one wire and / or the at least one optical fiber. The at least one wire and / or the at least one optical fiber can, for example, be embedded in the sheathing material. The sheathing material can be, for example, a silicone, a thermoplastic such as polyamide, and / or an epoxy resin, but also other materials or a combination of different materials.

[0021] The connecting cable can contain one or more wires and / or at least one conductor track, which are preferably insulated from each other and from the environment by an insulating material, preferably plastic. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting cable is a flexible printed circuit board on a polyimide substrate with conductors configured as conductor tracks, which advantageously comprise or consist predominantly of gold. It is particularly advantageous that the connecting cable is flexible or spirally wound.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the function of the ear canal component is that of an interface to an external module located further out on the ear. For this purpose, the overall system can have a connecting element to which an external module can be coupled. The connecting element can be part of the ear canal component. Advantageously, the ear canal component can function as a strain relief or as an interface for the tympanic membrane component. A connection between the external module and the connecting element can be established and released, so that any resulting force on the tympanic membrane module is weakened or prevented, thus, for example, preventing it from being moved from its intended position.The connecting element allows, for example, the transmission of energy, audio signals, control signals, configuration data, status data, and / or other data from the external module to the ear canal component and / or the eardrum component. Transmission in the reverse direction from the ear canal component and / or the eardrum component to the external module can also be advantageous within the scope of the invention.

[0023] Placing a component in the ear canal (ear canal component) within the context of the overall system, where a component is attached directly to the eardrum, offers a variety of advantages that improve both the functionality and the user experience of the overall system.

[0024] If the overall system includes an eardrum component, the ear canal component advantageously incorporates a strain relief mechanism. By absorbing and distributing mechanical stresses such as manipulation, pulling, or twisting on the ear canal component, it protects the integrity of the eardrum component. This design not only prevents forces from being transmitted directly to the eardrum, thus reducing the risk of detachment or damage, but also simplifies maintenance. A user can more easily access, operate, clean, adjust, or replace this component without professional assistance, increasing the ease of use and longevity of the device.

[0025] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the ear canal component can include a power source in the form of a rechargeable battery or a primary battery. Placement in the ear canal facilitates energy management, whether by replacing or recharging the battery.

[0026] The ear canal component can preferably be positioned deep within the ear canal. For example, a proximal end of the ear canal component, in its intended state, can be located close to the tympanic membrane at a distance of < 15 mm, preferably < 12.5 mm, preferably < 10 mm, preferably < 7.5 mm, preferably < 5 mm and / or > 1 mm, preferably > 2 mm, preferably > 3 mm, preferably > 4 mm, preferably > 5 mm, preferably > 6 mm, preferably > 7 mm from the tympanic membrane. Advantageously, a distal end of an ear canal component can be located proximal to a distal end of the ear canal, preferably at a distance of < 5 mm, preferably < 7.5 mm, preferably < 10 mm, preferably < 12.5 mm, preferably < 15 mm and / or > 0 mm, preferably > 2.5 mm, preferably > 5 mm, preferably > 7.5 mm, preferably > 10 mm, preferably > 15 mm.

[0027] Due to movement (e.g., sports, jaw movements), the ear canal component may loosen from its original position in the ear canal. Positional instability (i.e., shifting or tilting along the ear canal) of the ear canal component can impair the functionality of the overall system or reduce wearing comfort. In cases of severe positional instability, the ear canal component may fall completely out of the ear canal, become damaged itself, or even cause injuries, for example, to the eardrum.

[0028] To solve this problem, the ear canal component can be held in place during wear using a retention structure in the ear canal and / or directly on the eardrum. Such a retention structure is advantageously made of a soft, adaptable material such as biocompatible silicone, polyurethane foam, or a similar material.

[0029] This retention structure is advantageously designed to expand slightly after insertion, filling the space defined by the ear canal and / or eardrum without exerting excessive pressure on the inner surfaces of the ear canal and / or eardrum, thus avoiding irritation and discomfort. Due to its flexibility, the retention structure can adapt to different shapes and sizes of the ear canal and / or eardrum, ensuring a secure fit.

[0030] An alternative, advantageous design for the retention structure can be individually shaped to the user's anatomy and features interchangeable retention elements, allowing for a certain degree of customization. These could be, for example, inserts in various sizes that can be easily exchanged by the user. This allows the thickness and length of the retention structure to be adjusted, enabling a more customized fit that accommodates individual anatomical differences in the size and / or shape of the ear canal and eardrum. This feature is beneficial for a secure and comfortable fit, especially during movement or prolonged wear.

[0031] In principle, any conceivable detachable connection between the core and the mounting structure offers a way to ensure the mounting structure can be replaced. For example, the mounting structure and core could be connected using a form-fit connection (e.g., tongue and groove joint) or a force-fit connection (e.g., magnetic connection). Furthermore, a connection between the core and the anchoring structure using a detachable adhesive bond (temperature-soluble, solvent-based, etc.) would be possible.

[0032] Furthermore, the retention structure can be advantageously equipped with a smooth outer surface, allowing for easy insertion and removal without injuring the ear canal. The surface can also be coated with an antimicrobial finish to prevent earwax buildup and inhibit bacterial growth, thereby promoting hygiene and reducing the risk of infection.

[0033] Optionally, the ear canal component may have an integrated pull tab or handle attached to one end of the component.

[0034] This tab allows for easy gripping, insertion and / or removal of the component.

[0035] Advantageously, the ear canal component, eardrum component, and / or retention structure are designed to be at least partially permeable to sound within a specific frequency spectrum. This allows the wearer of such a component to perceive sound sources in their environment naturally, even while wearing the components. However, it can also be advantageous to design the components to attenuate the sound energy of a specific frequency spectrum from sound sources in the user's environment as much as possible. To limit the number of possible retention structure shapes, avoid the costly individualization of the retention structure during manufacturing, and still accommodate the diversity of possible ear canal geometries, the use of an adjustable retention structure is beneficial.

[0036] One possible implementation of the adjustable retention structure relies on a hydraulic or pneumatic expansion mechanism. For this purpose, the retention structure can have or be at least one expandable cushion, at least one expandable ring, or a comparable geometry. To position the ear canal component within the ear canal, the retention structure can be in a compressed or unexpanded state. After the ear canal component has been placed in its intended position, the retention structure can be expanded using a suitable tool and the hydraulic or pneumatic expansion mechanism.Compressed air or a suitable hydraulic fluid, such as water, vegetable or mineral oil, or a mixture thereof, can be pumped into the adjustable retention structure until, for example, a certain pressure is reached within the structure or a specific fixing force is achieved in the ear canal. Advantageously, the adjustable retention structure adapts to the anatomy of the ear canal wall in its intended position, for example, after the application of an expansion mechanism.

[0037] Alternatively, an adjustable retention structure can be implemented using a spring mechanism. This retention structure can be designed as a mechanical spring, which is held in a compressed state, for example, by a suitable tool and / or a compression element. After inserting the ear canal component into its intended position, the tool and / or compression element is removed, and the adjustable retention structure expands towards the ear canal wall to ensure a secure hold of the ear canal component within the ear canal.

[0038] Another way to create an adaptable retention structure is by using an in-situ curing material. The material used as the retention structure has a predetermined initial softness in its uncured state. This allows the retention structure to adapt to the individual ear canal anatomy after the ear canal component is inserted into its intended position. A curing process can then be applied to modify, specifically reduce, the softness of the adaptable retention structure, thereby increasing the positional stability of the ear canal component. Curing can be achieved, for example, by applying heat and / or electromagnetic radiation within a specific spectral range. Alternatively, a self-curing material can be used, which hardens on its own over a defined period.Due to the nature of the material, hardening can then occur spontaneously over a certain period of time.

[0039] The ear canal component can advantageously have, in addition to the retention structure, a fixation structure attached to the lateral and / or medial side of the ear canal component, which allows the ear canal component to be fixed in place. The fixation structure can lie directly against the ear canal wall. In a further embodiment, the ear canal component can be fixed via a fixation structure worn in the auricle, which extends along the ear canal to the ear canal module.

[0040] The fixation structure can be permanently attached to the ear canal component. However, a detachable connection between the two components is also possible. Advantageously, the fixation structure can be designed in the form of a ring that conforms to the geometry of the ear canal. The ring can advantageously run along the wall of the ear canal. However, the fixation structure can also have a different geometry, such as an otoplasty that replicates the shape of the ear canal.

[0041] The use of appropriately soft materials such as biocompatible silicones, polyurethane foams, or elastomers like natural rubber or silicone rubber, which adapt to the anatomy of the ear canal, is advantageous. However, the use of a different, less soft material (polymers, epoxies, or metals) can also be beneficial.

[0042] In a further embodiment of the invention, the ear canal component can be solublely connected to the ear canal wall by means of a fixation structure. Here, the use of adhesives or other adhesion-enhancing materials such as wax or oil is particularly advantageous, as these allow the fixation structure to be bonded to the ear canal wall. The adhesive strength of the fixation structure can be reduced, for example, by using a suitable solvent, applying electromagnetic radiation of a specific spectral range, or increasing the temperature, to such an extent that the ear canal component can be removed if necessary.

[0043] The correct positioning of an ear canal component is crucial for the safety and functionality of the entire system. If the ear canal component sits too deep in the ear canal, it can exert pressure on the eardrum, directly or indirectly via a potentially present eardrum component. This can lead to injury and / or impaired functionality. If the ear canal component is positioned too shallowly, it is more susceptible to jaw movements and therefore often less stable. Furthermore, a deeper positioning of an ear canal component provides additional space for the placement of other components of the overall system (such as an external module). Therefore, positioning the ear canal component at an optimal insertion depth is essential for the safety, comfort, and functionality of the entire system.

[0044] Due to individual ear canal anatomy and length, it is advantageous to determine a separate optimal position and thus insertion depth of the ear canal component for each ear to be fitted. A suitable tool and procedure are beneficial for this.

[0045] One method for determining insertion depth involves measuring the ear canal length. A suitable measuring instrument is advanced to the eardrum, and the person being measured indicates when it touches the eardrum. A scale on the measuring instrument allows for the determination of the ear canal length. Due to potential inaccuracies in reading and measurement using this method, an additional safety margin at a distance from the eardrum is advantageous.

[0046] Precise placement of an ear canal component is best achieved using an insertion tool. The insertion tool can advantageously have an ergonomic handle that provides the user with a secure and comfortable grip. This allows for precise control when inserting the tool into the ear canal.

[0047] Advantageously, the insertion tool can be equipped with a holding mechanism that allows for a secure grip on the ear canal component for positioning. This holding mechanism can be designed, for example, as a plug, a gripper, or tweezers that mechanically fixes the ear canal component firmly but releasably. Alternatively, it can be implemented using one or more magnets in the insertion tool and / or in the ear canal component.

[0048] Alignment features such as guide marks are advantageously integrated into the insertion tool to ensure correct component positioning. Alternatively or additionally, a miniature camera or endoscopic function can be integrated into the tool's design. This allows for real-time visual feedback to the operator, for example, by displaying the inside of the ear canal on a connected screen.

[0049] More precise positioning of the ear canal component can be achieved using a custom insertion tool. This approach benefits from the availability of tomographic information of the ear canal and, if necessary, the eardrum. Acquiring tomographic data of the relevant anatomical structures can be accomplished, for example, using a suitable optical scanning method, an MRI scan, or an impression technique. With the help of this tomographic information, the appropriate module position in the ear canal can be automatically determined on a computer using a suitable algorithm or by a qualified professional. Based on this data, an insertion tool can be created that precisely matches the individual anatomy.This insertion tool uses a mechanical stop in the outer ear to precisely determine the insertion depth, eliminating the risk of the ear canal component colliding with the eardrum or any existing eardrum component during insertion. Thanks to its custom shape and a suitable retention mechanism, the ear canal component can be optimally aligned within the ear canal, in addition to ensuring precise depth positioning. Custom insertion tools can be manufactured using additive (3D printing) or subtractive manufacturing processes.

[0050] The outer ear canal in humans is responsible for transmitting sound waves towards the eardrum and inner ear. An open and unobstructed ear canal is necessary for this sound conduction to occur.

[0051] The angled shape of the ear canal protects against the direct penetration of dirt, bacteria, or insects. Secretions produced in the outer ear canal, such as earwax, serve as a further protective mechanism. This is intended to prevent foreign materials from entering and simultaneously transport dead skin cells from the body to the outside.

[0052] If an ear canal component is placed in the ear canal as part of a complete system and is worn permanently or for an extended period, it can be perceived by the body as a foreign object and may also impair the function of the ear canal. Furthermore, a placed ear canal component obstructs the view of the medial part of the ear canal, the eardrum, and the ear canal wall at the point where the component itself is located. Changes in this area are therefore difficult to detect. Consequently, changes in the ear canal environment caused by wearing an ear canal component and / or an eardrum component, as well as the obstruction of vision and accessibility resulting from such wear, lead to a significant information deficit for the wearer.This includes knowledge gaps regarding the mobility of the ear canal and placed components, the development and diagnosis of ear canal inflammation, factors influencing comfort (pressure tolerance), force ratios of the modules, temperature and humidity.

[0053] Furthermore, the overall system may have a functionality for which the acquisition, processing and / or forwarding of physiological and / or environmental parameters is advantageous.

[0054] Advantageously, the overall system therefore includes at least one functional element, which ideally provides some form of sensor technology. This opens up a wide range of new possibilities in the areas of diagnostics and prevention, as well as facilitating and innovating research and development of overall systems and their functions. Real-time or recorded data enables predictive maintenance for both development and implementation in existing systems. Furthermore, in combination with actuators, countless possibilities arise for translating the newly acquired information into active adjustments for the system.

[0055] Advantageously, at least one functional element is a sensor. Sensors are technical components that can be used to determine physical and chemical quantities and properties. There are different types of sensors that can be integrated for various applications. The following is a list of some sensor types conceivable within the scope of the invention and their possible applications:

[0056] Temperature sensor: Early detection of inflammatory reactions in the ear canal by measuring temperature changes,

[0057] Pressure sensor: Pressure measurement and monitoring of a suitable contact pressure of the ear canal anchor for early assessment of the fit and comfort of the component.

[0058] Gyroscope sensor / accelerometer: Determines the position of the modules and their changes,

[0059] Humidity sensor: Determination of a suitable test environment; Ultrasound sensor: Distance measurement to verify proper positioning in the ear canal.

[0060] Infrared sensor: temperature measurement and motion detection

[0061] The use of sensors can be combined with other functional elements for data processing, data reception, data transmission, and / or user interface within the scope of the invention. These can include, for example, (signal) processors for processing and / or sending and / or receiving information, antennas, and, for example, sound transducers such as microphones or loudspeakers.

[0062] Furthermore, a functional element can be, for example, a sound-receiving and / or sound-emitting component, which serves, for instance, to implement a hearing aid. Other possible functional elements whose placement in a person's ear canal is advantageous include, for example, modules for targeted medication delivery, power sources in the form of a rechargeable battery or a primary battery, electrical or optical interfaces, (signal) processors for processing and / or sending and / or receiving information, components for energy transmission, accelerometers, pressure sensors, or sensors for monitoring physiological parameters and / or the environment.

[0063] The invention will now be explained by way of example with reference to several figures. Identical reference numerals denote identical or corresponding features. The features described in the examples can also be implemented independently of the corresponding example and combined between different examples.

[0064] In the figures, the reference symbols indicate the following components:

[0065] 1: Tympanic membrane component

[0066] 2: Connecting cable

[0067] 3: Vibratory element

[0068] 4: Ear canal component 5: Overall system

[0069] 6: Functional element

[0070] 7: External Module

[0071] 8: Ear canal

[0072] 9: Ear canal wall

[0073] 10: Eardrum

[0074] 11: Adaptable support structure

[0075] 12: Support structure

[0076] 13: Fixation structure

[0077] 14: Ring

[0078] 15: Otoplasty

[0079] 16: Insertion tool

[0080] 17: Individual insertion tool

[0081] 18: Holding mechanism

[0082] 19: Mechanical stop

[0083] 20a: Expandable cushion in unexpanded state

[0084] 20b: Expandable cushion in expanded state

[0085] 21: Tool with pneumatic expansion mechanism

[0086] 22: Hydraulic fluid

[0087] 23: Compression element

[0088] 24: Plug connection

[0089] 25: Replaceable mounting structure

[0090] 26: Connecting link

[0091] Fig. 1 shows a complete system 5 according to the invention, comprising a tympanic membrane component 1 and an ear canal component 4. The tympanic membrane component 1 and the ear canal component 4 are connected to each other by means of a connecting cable 2. The tympanic membrane component 1 is intended to be positioned in the ear canal 8 on the tympanic membrane 10 of a person and has a functional element 6, which is designed as a vibratory element 3. The complete system 5 also includes an ear canal component 4, which, according to the invention, is positioned in the ear canal 8 of a person and held there by means of a retention structure 12. Additionally, the ear canal component 4 has a fixation structure 13 designed as a ring 14, which is attached to the lateral side of the ear canal component 4 and which further fixes the ear canal component 4 in the ear canal 8.

[0092] Fig. 2 shows a complete system 5 according to the invention, comprising a tympanic membrane component 1 and an ear canal component 4. The tympanic membrane component 1 and the ear canal component 4 are connected to each other by means of a connecting cable 2. The tympanic membrane component 1 is intended to be positioned in the ear canal 8 on the tympanic membrane 10 of a person. According to the invention, the ear canal component 4 is positioned in the ear canal 8 of a person and is held there by means of a retention structure 12. Additionally, the ear canal component 4 has a fixation structure 13 designed as an otoplast 15, which is attached to the lateral side of the ear canal component 4 and which further secures the ear canal component 4 in the ear canal.

[0093] 8 fixed.

[0094] Fig. 3 shows a complete system 5 according to the invention, comprising a tympanic membrane component 1 and an ear canal component 4. The tympanic membrane component 1 and the ear canal component 4 are connected to each other by means of a connecting cable 2. The tympanic membrane component 1 is intended to be positioned in the ear canal 8 on the tympanic membrane 10 of a person. According to the invention, the ear canal component 4 is positioned in the ear canal 8 of a person and is held there by means of a retention structure 12. Additionally, the ear canal component 4 has a fixation structure 13, which connects the retention structure 12 of the ear canal component 4 solublely to the ear canal wall.

[0095] 9 connects. Fig. 3 also shows an external module 7, which is connected to the ear canal component 4 of the overall system 5 by means of a connecting element 26.

[0096] Fig. 4 shows a complete system 5 according to the invention, comprising a tympanic membrane component 1 and an ear canal component 4. The tympanic membrane component 1 and the ear canal component 4 are connected to each other by means of a connecting cable 2. The tympanic membrane component 1 is intended to be positioned in the ear canal 8 on the tympanic membrane 10 of a person. According to the invention, the ear canal component 4 is positioned in the ear canal 8 of a person and is held there by means of a retention structure 12. In the illustration, the ear canal component 4 is inserted into the ear canal using an insertion tool 16 designed as an individual insertion tool 17. For this purpose, the individual insertion tool 17 has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the individual ear canal 8 and a retention mechanism 18, which enables a secure grip on the ear canal component 4 for its positioning.Furthermore, the individual insertion tool 17 has a mechanical stop 19 in the outer ear area, which specifies a precise depth position of the ear canal component 4 during insertion.

[0097] Fig. 5 shows a complete system 5 according to the invention, comprising a tympanic membrane component 1 and an ear canal component 4. The tympanic membrane component 1 and the ear canal component 4 are connected to each other by means of a connecting cable 2. The tympanic membrane component 1 is intended to be positioned in the ear canal 8 on the tympanic membrane 10 of a person. According to the invention, the ear canal component 4 is positioned in the ear canal 8 of a person and has a retention structure 12. In Fig. 5, the retention structure 12 is designed as an adjustable retention structure 11. In subfigure a), the adjustable retention structure 11 has expandable cushions 20a in the unexpanded state. A tool 21 is shown which is suitable for triggering a pneumatic expansion mechanism by applying a hydraulic fluid 22 into the ear canal component 4. In subfigure b), an application of a hydraulic fluid 22 has been carried out.Therefore, the adaptable retention structure 11 has expandable cushions in the expanded state 20b which adapt to the anatomy of the ear canal wall 9.

[0098] Fig. 6 shows a complete system 5 according to the invention, comprising a tympanic membrane component 1 and an ear canal component 4. The tympanic membrane component 1 and the ear canal component 4 are connected to each other by means of a connecting cable 2. The tympanic membrane component 1 is intended to be positioned in the ear canal 8 on the tympanic membrane 10 of a person. According to the invention, the ear canal component 4 is positioned in the ear canal 8 of a person and has an adjustable retention structure 11. The adjustable retention structure 11 has a mechanical spring 20a or 20b, which, for the insertion process in partial figure a), is held in a compressed state by means of a compression element 23. In partial figure b), the compression element 23 is removed, and the adjustable retention structure 11 can expand towards the ear canal wall 9 to ensure a secure hold of the ear canal component in the ear canal 8.

[0099] Fig. 7 shows a complete system 5 according to the invention, comprising a tympanic membrane component 1 and an ear canal component 4. The tympanic membrane component 1 and the ear canal component 4 are connected to each other by means of a connecting cable 2, which has a length suitable for holding the ear canal component 4 outside the ear canal 8, while the tympanic membrane component 1 is arranged in its intended position on the tympanic membrane 10. According to the invention, the ear canal component 4 has a functional element 6 and a plug connection 24, which is suitable for receiving or connecting to an interchangeable retention structure 25. In partial figure a), the ear canal component 4 is shown without an interchangeable retention structure 25. In partial figure b), however, an interchangeable retention structure 25 is shown connected to the plug connection 24.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Ear system for arrangement in a user's ear, comprising an ear canal component that can be arranged in the user's ear canal, the ear canal component comprising a core and a retention structure, the retention structure surrounding the core in such a way that the ear canal component is held in place by the retention structure in the user's ear canal without the core touching a wall of the ear canal.

2. Ear system according to the preceding claim, wherein the retention structure is designed such that it can be transferred from an insertion state in which the ear canal component has a first diameter to a retention state in which the ear canal component has a second diameter which is larger than the first diameter, while the ear canal component is in the ear.

3. Ear system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding structure has at least one hydraulically and / or pneumatically expandable volume, which preferably has a cushion shape or a tire shape.

4. Ear system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the retaining structure has at least one spring mechanism which is supported on the core.

5. Ear system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the retention structure comprises at least a curable material which, in a state in which it has a first hardness, can be inserted into the ear canal and can be cured there to a second hardness which is greater than the first hardness.

6. Ear system according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a tympanic membrane component that can be arranged on a tympanic membrane of the user and that is connected to the ear canal component for the transmission of energy and / or information, preferably via at least one cable and / or at least one optical fiber.

7. Ear system according to one of the preceding claims further comprising a tympanic membrane component that can be arranged on a tympanic membrane of the user, and an external module that is connected to the tympanic membrane component via at least one cable and / or at least one optical fiber, wherein the at least one cable and / or the at least one optical fiber runs through the ear canal component and the ear canal component has a strain relief component that is configured to absorb a pull on the cable and / or the optical fiber in a distal direction.

8. Ear system according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an insertion tool at one end of which the ear canal component can be retained, wherein the insertion tool has a stop at a second end facing away from the first end, the stop having a maximum diameter greater than the diameter of the distal ear canal end, wherein a distance between the stop and the first end is equal to a target depth in which the ear canal module is to be arranged as intended.

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