Eardrum implantable devices for hearing systems and methods
First Claim
1. A device to transmit sound to a user having an eardrum, the device comprising:
- a structure configured for placement at least partially in the eardrum;
an anchor configured to secure the structure in the eardrum; and
a transducer supported with the structure and configured to vibrate the eardrum,wherein the anchor is configured and sized to extend from an umbo of the eardrum to the structure in order to inhibit migration of the structure when placed in the eardrum,wherein the structure comprises an aperture and the device further comprises an optic configured to transmit the light energy and suitable for placement in the aperture.
3 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
An implantable device is configured for placement in the eardrum to transmit an audio signal to a user. The device may be configured to improve transmission of an electromagnetic signal from an input assembly on a lateral side of an eardrum to an output assembly positioned on a medial side of the eardrum, for example, at least partially in the middle ear of the user. The output assembly may comprise a transducer or at least two electrodes configured to stimulate the cochlea, for example. The device may include an opening to transmit the light signal or an optic to transmit the light signal. Alternatively, the device may be configured to support a transducer of the output assembly with the eardrum when the device is implanted in the eardrum, such that the eardrum vibrates in response to the electromagnetic signal. The electromagnetic signal may include light energy.
381 Citations
17 Claims
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1. A device to transmit sound to a user having an eardrum, the device comprising:
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a structure configured for placement at least partially in the eardrum; an anchor configured to secure the structure in the eardrum; and a transducer supported with the structure and configured to vibrate the eardrum, wherein the anchor is configured and sized to extend from an umbo of the eardrum to the structure in order to inhibit migration of the structure when placed in the eardrum, wherein the structure comprises an aperture and the device further comprises an optic configured to transmit the light energy and suitable for placement in the aperture. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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12. A method of providing a hearing to a user having an eardrum, the method comprising:
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placing a hearing device in an eardrum of a user, the hearing device comprising a structure configured for placement in the eardrum; and attaching an anchor to an umbo of the user, wherein the anchor extends from the umbo to the structure in order to inhibit migration of the structure in the eardrum, wherein the eardrum is cut to form a flap on a medial side of the eardrum, and wherein the flap is positioned at least partially over the anchor when the anchor is attached to the umbo. - View Dependent Claims (13, 14, 15, 16, 17)
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Specification