Microphone assembly for a medical device

An implantable microphone assembly with a diaphragm and inert gas-filled channel addresses the challenge of sound signal capture in cochlear implants, enhancing sensitivity and efficiency in processing sound signals.

WO2026062471A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-03-26COCHLEAR LIMITED
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-09-11
Publication Date
2026-03-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing implantable medical devices, such as cochlear implants, face challenges in efficiently capturing and processing sound signals due to limitations in sound sensor technology, particularly in invisible hearing modes where external components are not available.

Method used

The implementation of an implantable microphone assembly with a diaphragm mechanically coupled to an anatomical structure and a channel filled with inert gas to achieve an acoustic resonance frequency between 2 kHz and 8 kHz, enhancing the transfer of sound-induced vibrations.

Benefits of technology

This configuration improves the sensitivity and efficiency of sound signal capture and processing, enabling effective sound perception across a broad frequency range without external components.

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Abstract

An implantable microphone assembly includes a microphone, a diaphragm configured to be mechanically coupled to an anatomical structure of a recipient, and a channel extending from the diaphragm to the microphone. The diaphragm is configured to receive sound-induced vibrations from the anatomical structure, and the channel is configured to transfer the sound- induced vibrations as acoustic pressure from the diaphragm to the microphone. The channel includes an inert gas having a substantially low speed of sound to provide an acoustic resonance frequency between approximately 2 kilohertz (kHz) and approximately 8 kHz.
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Citation Information

Patent Citations

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    KR1020140104348A

  • Totally implantable hearing system

    US20020138115A1

  • Transcutaneous power optimization circuit for a medical implant

    US20070118185A1

  • Microphone unit having a pressurized chamber

    US20230047075A1

  • Ear canal microphone utilizing communications with hearing implant

    US20240073631A1