Devices and methods for hearing
A device to transmit an audio signal to a user comprises a transducer and a support. The support is configured for placement on the eardrum to drive the eardrum. The transducer is coupled to the support at a first location to decrease occlusion and a second location to drive the eardrum. The transducer may comprise one or more of an electromagnetic balanced armature transducer, a piezoelectric transducer, a magnetostrictive transducer, a photostrictive transducer, or a coil and magnet. The device may find use with open canal hearing aids.
1. A method of inductively transmitting an audio signal to a user, the method comprising:
inductively coupling a first coil to a second coil, wherein the first coil is placed in an ear canal of the user and the second coil is a part of a transducer placed at least partially against an eardrum of the user;
driving a current through a third coil, wherein the second coil is electrically connected to the third coil;
moving a balanced armature in response to the current driven through the third coil wherein the third coil is wrapped around at least a portion of the balanced armature;
vibrating the eardrum of the user through a reed post connected to the balanced armature; and
supporting the transducer while the balanced armature is moved in response to the current driven through the third coil, by providing a support configured for placement at least partially against an outer portion of the eardrum without penetrating the outer portion.
2. A method according to claim 1 , the method further comprising the step of urging the transducer toward the eardrum when the transducer is placed at least partially against the eardrum.
3. A method according to claim 2 wherein the transducer is urged toward the eardrum by a compression structure.
4. A method according to claim 3 wherein the transducer is urged toward the eardrum by at least one spring.
5. A method according to claim 4 wherein the at least one spring comprises two springs.
6. A method according to claim 1 , the method further comprising the step of urging the transducer toward the eardrum when the transducer is placed at least partially against the eardrum.
7. A method according to claim 6 wherein the transducer is urged toward the eardrum by a compression structure.
8. A method according to claim 7 wherein the transducer is urged toward the eardrum by at least one spring.
9. A method according to claim 8 wherein the at least one spring comprises two springs.