Behind-the-ear Speech Processor Case for Body-worn Conversion

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional implantable cochlear stimulation systems face challenges with behind-the-ear speech processor units being unsuitable for infants and toddlers due to size and durability issues, and adults preferring versatility between behind-the-ear and body-worn units, leading to the need for multiple expensive devices and inconvenient switching.

Innovation Solution

A speech processor case that allows a behind-the-ear unit to be converted into a body-worn unit by docking it within the case, which includes connectors for the headpiece and power supply, enabling seamless switching between forms without loss of functionality.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a behind-the-ear speech processor unit is used, then it is suitable for children over 5 years old, but it is too big for infants and toddlers and容易被 damaged

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesuitability for different age groupsVSAvoiddurability against damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent places the BTE unit inside a protective case that can be worn on the body, creating a nested configuration where the smaller BTE unit is contained within the larger body-worn case structure. This allows the same hardware to serve dual purposes: as a BTE unit for older children and as a body-worn unit for infants and toddlers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal speech processor system where a single BTE unit can function in two different configurations: as a traditional behind-the-ear unit for children over 5, and as a body-worn unit for infants and toddlers when placed inside the protective case. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate devices for different age groups.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a body worn speech processor unit is used, then it is suitable for infants and toddlers, but it is larger and heavier and less suitable for everyday activities

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesuitability for infants and toddlersVSAvoidweight of speech processor unit

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent nests the BTE unit within the body-worn case, allowing the same hardware to be worn in a compact configuration for everyday activities or in an expanded configuration for infants and toddlers. The nested structure minimizes the effective size and weight when the BTE unit is the only component being worn.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables dynamic reconfiguration of the speech processor system. The BTE unit can be easily inserted into or removed from the body-worn case, allowing the user to switch between different wearing configurations based on the activity or age group being served, thereby adapting the effective weight and size as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple speech processor units are purchased for different age groups or activities, then versatility is achieved, but the cost increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to serve different age groups and activitiesVSAvoidnumber of speech processor units

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal system where a single BTE unit can serve multiple functions: as a BTE unit for children over 5, as a body-worn unit for infants and toddlers, and potentially as a portable unit for adults. This multi-functionality allows one device to replace what would traditionally require two or more separate units, significantly reducing the cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functionality of multiple speech processor units into a single BTE unit by combining it with a body-worn case. The case provides the additional functionality of body-worn configuration, effectively merging the features of a BTE unit and a body-worn unit into one integrated system, thereby eliminating the need to purchase separate devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Reliability

If a BTE unit is lost or damaged, then the child must switch back to a body worn unit, but there is no spare BTE unit available

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveavailability of backup unitVSAvoidneed to carry multiple units

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal system where the BTE unit can function in multiple configurations. If the BTE unit is lost or damaged, the user can place it back in the body-worn case to serve as a body-worn unit, providing backup functionality without needing a separate spare BTE unit. This maintains system reliability while reducing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7630772B1Methods of converting a behind-the-ear speech processor unit into a body worn speech processor unit

Publication Date: 2009.12.08 ADVANCED BIONICS AG

AI summary

Apparatus and methods for converting one type of speech processor unit into another type of speech processor unit. A behind the ear (BTE) speech processor is converted to a body-worn device by means of a container that encloses the BTE and allows for device operations and charging. The body-worn device is worn in one embodiment on a belt of a patient.