Cochlear Sound Processor Case With Inductive Docking Flexibility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional implantable cochlear stimulation systems are costly for recipients who desire both behind-the-ear and head-mountable off-the-ear sound processors, as obtaining a second sound processor is prohibitively expensive.
Innovation Solution
A case that converts a behind-the-ear sound processor into a head-mountable off-the-ear system by incorporating a main portion with a housing, a cover, an inductive coupler, and a dock, allowing the same sound processor unit to be used in both configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a cochlear implant recipient obtains a second sound processor (head-mountable off-the-ear) in addition to the existing BTE sound processor, then the recipient can use both behind-the-ear and head-mountable off-the-ear modes, but the cost becomes prohibitively expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The case is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a protective case for the BTE sound processor, a charging station via inductive coupling, and a mounting structure for head-mountable off-the-ear use. This multi-functionality allows a single sound processor unit to operate in multiple configurations without requiring additional hardware, thereby reducing cost while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the case structure with the sound processor unit by integrating the dock and inductive coupler directly into the case. This combination allows the case to provide both protective functions and power transfer capabilities, eliminating the need for separate charging devices and reducing overall system cost
2Quantity of substance
If a single sound processor unit is used in both behind-the-ear and head-mountable off-the-ear modes, then cost is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to the case with inductive coupler and dock
Solution Approach 1:
The case is designed to serve multiple functions: it acts as a protective case for the BTE sound processor, a charging station via inductive coupling, and a mounting structure for head-mountable off-the-ear use. This multi-functionality allows a single sound processor unit to operate in multiple configurations without requiring additional hardware, thereby reducing cost while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The inductive coupler acts as an intermediary between the case and the sound processor unit, enabling wireless power transfer without requiring physical connection. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the docking process and reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining the ability to charge and operate the sound processor in different modes
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
Enables a single sound processor unit to function in both behind-the-ear and head-mountable off-the-ear modes, reducing costs and providing flexibility for cochlear implant recipients.
Implementation Method 1
an inductive coupler within the main portion housing
Data Source
AI summary
A case for use with a behind-the-ear sound processor unit includes a main portion including a main portion housing, a cover movable relative to main portion such that the case has an open state and a closed state where the main portion and the cover together define a storage area, a power supply within the main portion housing, an inductive coupler within the main portion housing, and a dock within the storage area, operably connected to the power supply and to the inductive coupler, and configured to dock the behind-the-ear sound processor unit.