Ear Device Magnetic Manipulation for Deep Canal Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in efficiently inserting, removing, and manipulating ear devices such as earplugs, communication devices, and medical devices within the ear canal, often leading to issues like extrusion and loss, especially when designed for deep insertion.
Innovation Solution
The use of an apparatus with an elongated section, a stop section, an electromagnet, and a power source with a switch allows for controlled insertion and removal of ear devices through magnetic attraction and repulsion, ensuring deep placement and retention within the ear canal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the ear device is designed for deep insertion into the ear canal, then the retention and concealment are improved, but the risk of extrusion and loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
A magnetic interaction system serves as an intermediary between the ear device and the external manipulator. The ear device contains a magnetic element, while the manipulator contains an electromagnet that can be controlled to attract or repel the magnetic element, enabling insertion, retention, and removal operations without direct mechanical contact with the deep-placed device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical connection systems (threads, clips, adhesives) with a magnetic field-based system. The electromagnet can be electronically controlled to provide attraction force for insertion and retention, then switched off or reversed to provide repulsion for easy removal, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fastening mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If a magnetic element is embedded in the ear device, then the manipulation and retention are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic element is extracted as a separate functional component embedded within the ear device body. This allows the magnetic functionality to be isolated and optimized independently, while the rest of the ear device structure remains simple and focused on its primary acoustic or protective function.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides retention force through attraction to the electromagnet, enables manipulation during insertion and removal, and allows for precise positioning within the ear canal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.
3Measurement precision
If the electromagnet is used for controlled insertion and removal, then the precision and control are improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnet operates in periodic cycles rather than continuously: it is activated during insertion to provide controlled attraction, switched off during the retention phase to conserve energy, and briefly activated again during removal. This periodic operation significantly reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining precise control when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnet's magnetic field strength is dynamically adjusted by changing electrical parameters (current magnitude and duration). During insertion, a moderate attraction force is applied; during removal, the field is either switched off completely or reversed to provide repulsion, optimizing energy usage based on the operational phase.
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 secure, deep insertion and removal of ear devices, preventing extrusion and loss, while allowing for manipulation and concealment within the ear, enhancing functionality and usability.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet associated with a first end of the elongated section; where the electromagnet can be magnetically attracted to a magnetic element associated with the ear device
Implementation Method 2
a power source and a switch electronically connected to the electromagnet; where the switch can turn the electromagnet on and off
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are apparatuses for manipulation of an ear device within the ear canal of a subject. Also disclosed herein are methods of using said apparatuses for the insertion, removal, or other manipulations of the ear device. Also disclosed herein are methods of making the apparatuses, and kits containing the apparatus with instructions for use.