System and Method for Rapid Scan and Three Dimensional Print of External Ear Canal
A method of custom fitting an earpiece to an ear of a user, is provided. The method includes collecting three-dimensional measurement data associated with the ear of the user using a scanning system, constructing a customized model for an ear piece sleeve using the three-dimensional data and earpiece data, and using a three dimensional printer to print an earpiece sleeve based on the customized model.
1 . A method of custom fitting an earpiece to an ear of a user the method comprising:
collecting three-dimensional measurement data associated with the ear of the user using a scanning system;
constructing a customized model for an ear piece sleeve using the three-dimensional data and earpiece data; and
using a three dimensional printer to print an earpiece sleeve based on the customized model.
2 . The method claim 1 wherein the earpiece sleeve is formed from a biocompatible material.
3 . The method of claim 2 wherein the biocompatible material is silicone.
4 . The method of claim 1 wherein the customized model includes placement of one or more sensors of the earpiece sleeve.
5 . The method of claim 4 further comprising integrating the one or more sensors into the earpiece sleeve based on the customized model.
6 . The method of claim 1 further comprising installing the earpiece sleeve on the earpiece.
7 . The method of claim 6 further comprising placing the earpiece with the earpiece sleeve within the ear of the user and testing fit of the earpiece with the earpiece sleeve.
8 . The method of claim 7 wherein the method is performed on site in a single visit by the user.
9 . The method of claim 1 wherein the method is repeated for a right ear of the user and a left ear of the user.