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 connected to a part of a transducer placed at least partially against an eardrum of the user;
bending a piezoelectric element in response to current driven through the second coil;
vibrating the eardrum of the user through the bending of the piezoelectric element; and
supporting the transducer while the piezoelectric element is bent in response to the current driven through the second 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 in response to the transducer being 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.