Auditory Prosthesis Magnet Flux Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Auditory prostheses, such as bone conduction devices, face issues with stray magnetic fields interfering with the operation of vibrating elements, leading to reduced retention forces and increased magnetic interference, which affects the device's functionality and comfort.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating additional magnets within the auditory prosthesis to redirect magnetic flux, allowing the vibrating element to be positioned closer to the magnets, thereby increasing magnetic retention forces and reducing the overall height profile while minimizing stray magnetic fields.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If magnets are used to hold the external portion against the skin, then retention force is improved, but stray magnetic fields interfere with the vibrating element operation
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic flux redirector is introduced as an intermediary component between the magnets and the vibrating element. This redirector channels the magnetic flux through a controlled path, allowing the magnets to provide retention force while preventing stray magnetic fields from interfering with the vibrating element's operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic system is segmented into distinct functional zones: a retention zone where magnets provide holding force against the skin, and a protected zone where the vibrating element operates free from magnetic interference. The flux redirector creates this segmentation by directing flux away from the vibrating element.
2Force
If magnets are positioned closer to the vibrating element, then retention force is improved, but magnetic interference with the vibrating element increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic flux redirector serves as a mediator that allows the magnets to be positioned close to the vibrating element for optimal retention force while simultaneously protecting the vibrating element from magnetic interference by providing a controlled flux path.
3Force
If larger magnets are used to increase retention force, then retention force is improved, but the overall height profile of the prosthesis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The use of magnetic flux redirectors changes the magnetic field distribution parameters, allowing for more efficient magnetic coupling. This enables the use of smaller magnets that provide adequate retention force without increasing the prosthesis height profile.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration enhances the retention force on the skin, allowing for smaller magnet sizes and reduced magnetic interference with internal components, improving the device's functionality and user comfort.
Implementation Method 1
An external portion of an auditory prosthesis includes an external magnet that interacts with an implantable magnet to hold the external portion against the skin
Implementation Method 2
The technologies described herein utilize additional magnets disposed within portions of the auditory prosthesis to redirect the magnetic flux
Data Source
AI summary
An external portion of an auditory prosthesis includes an external magnet that interacts with an implantable magnet to hold the external portion against the skin. Magnetic force generated by the stray field of these magnets can disturb the operation of a vibrating element of the auditory prosthesis. The technologies described herein utilize additional magnets disposed within portions of the auditory prosthesis to redirect the magnetic flux, which allows the vibrating element to be disposed more closely to the magnets, reducing the overall height profile of the prosthesis.