BTE Prosthetic Connector as RF Antenna for Extended Wireless Range
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional behind-the-ear (BTE) prosthetic devices for hearing aids and cochlear implants lack an integrated antenna for efficient wireless communication, limiting their ability to transmit and receive signals effectively over larger distances.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a connector configured to operate as an electromagnetic antenna within the BTE prosthetic device, allowing for wireless communication between the device and other components of the medical system, such as cochlear implants and remote units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a magnetic induction link with coil antenna is used for communication between BTE device and implant, then bidirectional communication and power transfer are enabled, but the communication distance is limited to close proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two different antenna types (magnetic induction coil antenna and RF antenna) into a single BTE device housing, allowing the device to operate in both near-field magnetic induction mode for close communication and far-field RF mode for extended distance communication, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable close communication and extended distance capability
Solution Approach 2:
The BTE device is designed with multi-functionality by integrating both magnetic induction coil antenna and RF antenna, enabling the same device to perform multiple communication functions: magnetic induction for power transfer and close communication, and RF for extended distance communication, thus addressing both close proximity and远距离 communication needs
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional BTE device without integrated antenna is used, then device structure is simpler, but wireless communication capability is limited or requires external components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the antenna function directly into the BTE device structure by housing both magnetic induction coil antenna and RF antenna within the same device enclosure, eliminating the need for separate external antenna components and integrating wireless communication capabilities directly into the device
Solution Approach 2:
The BTE device achieves universality by incorporating multiple antenna types that enable various wireless communication modes (magnetic induction and RF), allowing the device to adapt to different communication scenarios and requirements without needing external auxiliary components
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 solution enables bidirectional communication and power transfer over larger distances, improving the functionality and versatility of BTE prosthetic devices in medical systems.
Implementation Method 1
a connector configured to mechanically attach an auxiliary device to the BTE prosthetic device; and a transceiver comprising one or more of an RF transmitter and an RF receiver, wherein the connector is electrically connected to the RF transceiver, and wherein the connector operates as an electromagnetic antenna for wireless communication
Implementation Method 2
enables bidirectional communication and power transfer over larger distances
Data Source
AI summary
A BTE prosthetic device for use in a medical system or prosthesis comprises a connector configured to mechanically attach an auxiliary device of the system to the BTE prosthetic device. The connector is electrically connected to a transceiver of the BTE prosthetic device. The connector operates as an electromagnetic antenna for transmitting and/or receiving signals between the BTE prosthetic and other components of the medical system.