Capacitive input transducers for middle ear sensing
First Claim
1. An electromechanical sensor for transducing mechanical sound vibrations in a middle ear into an electrical input signal, the sensor comprising a capacitor having first and second portions, the first portion including a first capacitor electrode pivotally coupled to an auditory element for receiving the vibrations and changing a capacitance value of the capacitor in response thereto, the second portion including a second capacitor electrode having a fixed position.
3 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A hearing assistance system senses sound vibrations of an auditory element in the middle ear and provides a stimulus to an auditory sensory element. The vibrations are received through the tympanic membrane, and sensed at the tympanic membrane, malleus, incus, or other auditory element. A capacitive sensor is mechanically or magnetically coupled to a vibrating auditory element, such as the malleus, and time-varying capacitance values resulting from the vibrations are detected. One embodiment allows pivotable mechanical coupling of the capacitive sensor to at least one of the auditory element and a carrier secured within the middle ear. A resulting electrical output signal is provided to the output stimulator for assisting hearing.
-
Citations
5 Claims
- 1. An electromechanical sensor for transducing mechanical sound vibrations in a middle ear into an electrical input signal, the sensor comprising a capacitor having first and second portions, the first portion including a first capacitor electrode pivotally coupled to an auditory element for receiving the vibrations and changing a capacitance value of the capacitor in response thereto, the second portion including a second capacitor electrode having a fixed position.
Specification