Electromagnetic Transducer Interface for Versatile Bone Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hearing prostheses, such as bone conduction devices, face challenges in efficiently coupling to different sizes and types of support components, leading to inefficiencies in transmitting vibrations for effective hearing perception.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a transducer and a coupling apparatus that can couple to various male and female mating components, including different sizes and types, and a removable component with a metallic structure for direct skin contact, ensuring efficient vibration transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a bone conduction device uses a fixed coupling apparatus designed for a specific support component size, then the coupling strength and vibration transmission efficiency are optimized for that specific size, but the device cannot be adapted to different support component sizes or types
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling apparatus is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple support component sizes and types through a standardized connection mechanism, allowing the same coupling apparatus to function with various abutment configurations without requiring multiple specialized components
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling apparatus incorporates adjustable or movable elements that allow it to adapt its configuration dynamically to match different support component sizes and types, enabling a single device to maintain optimal coupling across varying conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling apparatus is designed to accommodate multiple support component sizes and types, then adaptability is improved, but the coupling strength and vibration transmission efficiency may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling apparatus incorporates adjustable parameters such as compression force, contact surface area, or engagement depth that can be modified to optimize coupling strength and vibration transmission efficiency for each specific support component configuration while maintaining adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling apparatus uses an intermediary mechanism or material that facilitates reliable vibration transmission between the transducer and various support component types, ensuring consistent performance across different configurations
3Productivity
If a removable component with metallic structure is used for direct skin contact, then vibration transmission efficiency is improved, but the risk of allergic reactions or skin irritation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The removable component uses composite material construction with a metallic vibration transmission core enclosed in a biocompatible outer layer or coating, combining the high vibration transmission efficiency of metal with the skin-friendly properties of medical-grade materials
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
The solution enables effective coupling and vibration transmission across varying support components, allowing for improved hearing perception by converting electrical signals into mechanical vibrations for the skull, suitable for a wide range of users.
Implementation Method 1
Electromagnetic transducer with new specific interface geometries
Data Source
AI summary
A device, comprising a coupling apparatus configured to couple to a male mating coupling component and also configured to couple to a female mating coupling component. In some embodiments, the coupling apparatus is configured to snap couple to a male mating coupling component and also configured to snap couple to a female mating coupling component.