Patent Application
20180028811
Hearing loss is generally of two types, conductive and sensorineural. Sensorineural hearing loss is due to the absence or destruction of the cochlear hair cells which transduce sound into nerve impulses. Various hearing prostheses have been developed to provide individuals suffering from sensorineural hearing loss with the ability to perceive sound. For example, cochlear implants have an electrode assembly which is implanted in the cochlea. In operation, electrical stimuli are delivered to the auditory nerve via the electrode assembly, thereby bypassing the inoperative hair cells to cause a hearing percept.
Conductive hearing loss occurs when the natural mechanical pathways that provide sound in the form of mechanical energy to cochlea are impeded, for example, by damage to the ossicular chain or ear canal. For a variety of reasons, such individuals are typically not candidates for a cochlear implant. Rather, individuals suffering from conductive hearing loss typically receive an acoustic hearing aid. Hearing aids rely on principles of air conduction to transmit acoustic signals to the cochlea. In particular, hearing aids amplify received sound and transmit the amplified sound into the ear canal. This amplified sound reaches the cochlea in the form of mechanical energy, causing motion of the perilymph and stimulation of the auditory nerve.
Unfortunately, not all individuals suffering from conductive hearing loss are able to derive suitable benefit from hearing aids. For example, some individuals are prone to chronic inflammation or infection of the ear canal. Other individuals have a malformed or absent outer ear and/or ear canals resulting from a birth defect, or as a result of medical conditions such as Treacher Collins syndrome or Microtia.
For these and other individuals, another type of hearing prosthesis has been developed in recent years. This hearing prosthesis, commonly referred to as a middle ear implant, converts received sound into a mechanical force that is applied to the ossicular chain or directly to the cochlea via an actuator implanted in or adjacent to the middle ear cavity.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, there is an implantable device, comprising an implantable module including a first functional component, the implantable module being configured to effectively differentiate between a plurality of different second modules respectively placeable into signal communication with the module.
In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, there is a method comprising operating an implantable component as part of a partially implantable prosthesis based on a first received signal received by the implantable component, and automatically operating the implantable component as part of a fully implantable prosthesis based on a second received signal received by the implantable component.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, there is an implantable system, comprising a first implantable module having a first role in the implantable system, wherein the first implantable module is configured to adopt a second role automatically upon a changed circumstance.
Embodiments are described below with reference to the attached drawings, in which:
As shown in
Each canal is filled with a fluid called endolymph and contains a motion sensor with tiny hairs (not shown) whose ends are embedded in a gelatinous structure called the cupula (also not shown). As the orientation of the skull changes, the endolymph is forced into different sections of the canals. The hairs detect when the endolymph passes thereby, and a signal is then sent to the brain. Using these hair cells, horizontal canal 126 detects horizontal head movements, while the superior 128 and posterior 127 canals detect vertical head movements.
Internal component 244A comprises an internal receiver/transmitter unit (hereinafter referred to as a communications unit) 232 including an inductance coil portion 236 (which is made, in some embodiments, out of silicone in which platinum coils (not shown) are embedded) and a stimulator unit 220, and a stimulation arrangement 250A in electrical communication with stimulator unit 220 via cable 218 extending through artificial passageway 219 in mastoid bone 221. Internal communications unit 232 and stimulator unit 220 are hermetically sealed within a biocompatible housing, and are sometimes collectively referred to as a stimulator/communications unit.
Internal communications unit 232 comprises an internal coil (not shown), and optionally, a magnet (also not shown) fixed relative to the internal coil. The external coil transmits electrical signals (i.e., power and stimulation data) to the internal coil via a radio frequency (RF) link. The internal coil is typically a wire antenna coil comprised of multiple turns of electrically insulated platinum or gold wire. The electrical insulation of the internal coil is provided by a flexible silicone molding (not shown). In use, implantable communications unit 232 is positioned in a recess of the temporal bone adjacent auricle 110.
In the illustrative embodiment of
Stimulation arrangement 250A comprises an actuator 240, a middle ear prosthesis 252A and a coupling element 251A which includes an artificial incus 261B (represented in a quasi-functional manner—some additional details of these components are described below). Actuator 240 is coupled to mastoid bone 221 so as to be held in the interior of artificial passageway 219 formed in mastoid bone 221.
In this embodiment, stimulation arrangement 250A is implanted and/or configured such that a portion of middle ear prosthesis 252A abuts the round window 121. In an alternate embodiment, the middle ear prosthesis 252A can abut the oval window (not shown). In some alternate embodiments, stimulation arrangement 250B may alternatively be implanted such that the middle ear prosthesis 252A abuts an opening in horizontal semicircular canal 126, in posterior semicircular canal 127 or in superior semicircular canal 128. Any attachment regime that can enable a hearing percept to be evoked utilizing the stimulation arrangement 250A can be utilized.
As noted above, a sound signal is received by microphone(s) 224, processed by sound processing unit 226, and transmitted as encoded data signals to internal communications 232. Based on these received signals, stimulator unit 220 (sometimes referred to herein as a driver or driver unit) generates drive signals which cause actuation of actuator 240. The mechanical motion of actuator 240 is transferred to middle ear prosthesis 252A such that a wave of fluid motion is generated in the perilymph in the scala tympani of the cochlea. Such fluid motion, in turn, activates the hair cells of the organ of Corti. Activation of the hair cells causes appropriate nerve impulses to be generated and transferred through the spiral ganglion cells (not shown) and auditory nerve 114 to cause a hearing percept in the brain.
Stimulator unit 320 is connected to stimulation arrangement 350 via a cable 328. Stimulation arrangement 350 comprises an actuator 340, a middle ear prosthesis 354, and a coupling element 353. A distal end of middle ear prosthesis 354 is configured to be positioned in one or more of the configurations noted above with respect to
Middle ear implant internal component 344 further includes actuator positioning mechanism 370. As may be seen, actuator positioning mechanism 370 is connected to and extends from implantable body 345 and is configured to removably receive actuator 340.
Ball joint 474 enables the actuator 340 to be positioned at an adjustably fixed location relative to the implantable body 345. In an exemplary embodiment, the ball joint 474 permits the location of the actuator 340 to be adjustable relative to the implant body in two degrees of freedom, represented by arrows 1 and 2 (first and second degrees of freedom, respectively), in
While actuator positioning mechanism 470 is depicted with a ball joint 474, other types of joints may be utilized. By way of example, the joint may comprise a malleable portion of a structural component of the actuator positioning mechanism 470 that permits the actuator 340 to be positioned, as just detailed or variations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the joint is an elastically deformable portion or plastically deformable portion, or is a combination of elastically deformable and plastically deformable portions so as to enable the adjustment of the location of the received actuator relative to the implant body in the at least one degree of freedom.
As noted above, actuator positioning mechanism 470 further includes sub-component 475. Sub-component 475 comprises ball 476 of ball joint 474, arm 477, trolley 478, and actuator support 479. Actuator support 479 is depicted as being in the form of a collar, and receives and otherwise holds actuator 340 therein, and thus holds the actuator 340 to the actuator positioning mechanism 470.
The collar has an exterior surface 479A and an interior surface 479B, configured to receive actuator 340. The interior diameter of the collar, formed by interior surface 479B is approximately the same as the outer diameter of the cylindrical body of actuator 340. The outer diameter of the collar, formed by exterior surface 479A, is sized such that the collar will fit into the artificial passageway 219. The length of the collar is shorter than the cylindrical body of the actuator 340, but in other embodiments, it may be the same length or about the same length or longer.
As noted, actuator support 479 and actuator 340 are configured to enable the actuator 340 to be removably secured to the actuator support 479, and thus the actuator positioning mechanism 470. This removable securement may be, in some embodiments, sufficient to prevent actuator 340 from substantially moving from the retained location in the actuator support 479, and the actuator positioning mechanism 470 is configured to prevent the actuator support 479 from substantially moving within the artificial passageway 219 during operation of the actuator 340. For example, the removable securement may be achieved via an interlock between the actuator 340 and the collar that provides retention sufficient to withstand reaction forces resulting from operation of actuator 340.
In an exemplary embodiment, the interlock is provided by an interference fit between inner surface 479A of the collar of actuator support 479 and an outer surface of actuator 340. In an alternate embodiment, the interlock is implemented as threads of inner surface 479A that interface with corresponding threads on the outer surface of actuator 340. In another embodiment, O-rings or the like may be used to snugly wrap around actuator 340 and snugly fit inside the collar of actuator support 479. Grooves on the actuator 340 and/or on the collar may be included to receive the O-ring. In other embodiments, compression of the O-ring between the actuator 340 and the collar provides sufficient friction to retain the components in the actuator support 479. In another embodiment, actuator support 479 or actuator 340 includes a biased extension that is adjusted against the bias to insert the actuator into the support. The extension may engage a detent on the opposing surface to interlock the actuator and the support. Other embodiments include protrusions and corresponding channels on opposing surfaces of the actuator and support. An exemplary embodiment includes a spring-loaded detent that interfaces with a detent receiver of the opposing surface to hold the actuator in the support or that extends behind the actuator once the actuator has been positioned beyond the detent. An alternate embodiment may utilize O-rings to interlock the actuator in the support. Adhesive may be used to interlock the actuator in the support. Any device, system, or method that will interlock the actuator in the support that will permit embodiments detailed herein and/or variations thereof to be practiced may be utilized in some embodiments.
The trolley 478, which is rigidly connected to actuator support 479, is configured to move linearly in the direction of arrow 3 parallel to the longitudinal direction of extension of arm 477. In this exemplary embodiment, arm 477 includes tracks with which trolley 478 interfaces to retain trolley 478 to arm 477. These tracks also establish trolley 478 and arm 477 as a telescopic component configured to enable the adjustment of the location of actuator support 479, and thus actuator 340 when received therein, relative to the housing 446 (thus the implant body), in at least one degree of freedom (i.e., the degree of freedom represented by arrow 3). It is noted that other embodiments may permit adjustment in at least two or at least three degrees of freedom. Thus, when the trolley component is combined with the aforementioned joint 474, the actuator positioning system enables the location of the actuator 340 to be adjustable relative to the implant body in at least two or at least three degrees of freedom.
Movement of the trolley 478 along arm 477 may be accomplished via a jack screw mechanism where the jack screw is turned via a screw driver or a hex-head wrench. Movement of the trolley 478 may also or alternatively be achieved via application of a force thereto that overcomes friction between the trolley 478 and the arm 477. Any device, system, or method that permits trolley 478 to move relative to arm 477 may be used in some embodiments detailed herein and/or variations thereof.
In view of the above, it is to be understood that at least some embodiments detailed herein and/or variations thereof are directed towards a body-worn sensory supplement medical device (e.g., the hearing prosthesis of
As shown, cochlear implant 100 comprises one or more components which are temporarily or permanently implanted in the recipient. Cochlear implant 100 is shown in
In the illustrative arrangement of
Cochlear implant 100 comprises an internal energy transfer assembly 132 which can be positioned in a recess of the temporal bone adjacent auricle 110 of the recipient. As detailed below, internal energy transfer assembly 132 is a component of the transcutaneous energy transfer link and receives power and/or data from external device 142. In the illustrative embodiment, the energy transfer link comprises an inductive RF link, and internal energy transfer assembly 132 comprises a primary internal coil 136. Internal coil 136 is typically a wire antenna coil comprised of multiple turns of electrically insulated single-strand or multi-strand platinum or gold wire.
Cochlear implant 100 further comprises a main implantable component 120 and an elongate electrode assembly 118. In some embodiments, internal energy transfer assembly 132 and main implantable component 120 are hermetically sealed within a biocompatible housing. In some embodiments, main implantable component 120 includes an implantable microphone assembly (not shown) and a sound processing unit (not shown) to convert the sound signals received by the implantable microphone in internal energy transfer assembly 132 to data signals. That said, in some alternative embodiments, the implantable microphone assembly can be located in a separate implantable component (e.g., that has its own housing assembly, etc.) that is in signal communication with the main implantable component 120 (e.g., via leads or the like between the separate implantable component and the main implantable component 120). In at least some embodiments, the teachings detailed herein and/or variations thereof can be utilized with any type of implantable microphone arrangement.
Main implantable component 120 further includes a stimulator unit (also not shown) which generates electrical stimulation signals based on the data signals. The electrical stimulation signals are delivered to the recipient via elongate electrode assembly 118.
Elongate electrode assembly 118 has a proximal end connected to main implantable component 120, and a distal end implanted in cochlea 140. Electrode assembly 118 extends from main implantable component 120 to cochlea 140 through mastoid bone 119. In some embodiments, electrode assembly 118 may be implanted at least in basal region 116, and sometimes further. For example, electrode assembly 118 may extend towards apical end of cochlea 140, referred to as cochlea apex 134. In certain circumstances, electrode assembly 118 may be inserted into cochlea 140 via a cochleostomy 122. In other circumstances, a cochleostomy may be formed through round window 121, oval window 112, the promontory 123, or through an apical turn 147 of cochlea 140.
Electrode assembly 118 comprises a longitudinally aligned and distally extending array 146 of electrodes 148, disposed along a length thereof. As noted, a stimulator unit generates stimulation signals which are applied by electrodes 148 to cochlea 140, thereby stimulating auditory nerve 114.
In an exemplary embodiment, the various components of the implantable prostheses detailed herein can be provided by way of implantable modules that are configured to communicate with one another.
To be clear, it is noted that in the functional schematics depicting the modules, contact between the two modules as depicted in the FIGS. does not necessarily mean physical contact there between. In this regard,
While the embodiment of
It is noted that while the above modularization and the teachings detailed herein are directed towards various components of a hearing prosthesis detailed herein, the modularization according to the teachings detailed herein are also applicable to other types of hearing prostheses/other components thereof. Further, the teachings detailed herein are applicable to other types of prostheses, such as by way of example, retinal implants or other sense implants. In this regard, the teachings detailed herein are but exemplary, and are applicable beyond the specific teachings detailed herein.
In an exemplary embodiment, one or more or all of the modules of a given module system (hereinafter, the aggregate of modules in signal communication with other modules is referred to as a module system) contain a set of utilitarian information regarding its own status and relationship to the overall system. The modules can include a chip, such as by way of example only and not by way of limitation, a nonvolatile memory chip, which contains information or otherwise stores information or otherwise stores data therein/thereon in a manner that permits the data to be stored over long periods without energy input (e.g., months, years, etc.). In some exemplary embodiments, such data can include by way of example only and not by way of limitation, module manufacturing information, model and serial number; parameters specific to the module, e.g. microphone sensitivity, actuator transformer constant; parameters specific to the recipient, e.g. implantation date, audiologic fitting parameters (gain by frequency, compression ratio and knee point), type of surgery and location of actuator (incus body, stapes capitulum, round window, etc.); and parameters specific to the implanted system, e.g., bilateral versus unilateral, microphone location, type of actuator, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the modules are configured to transmit the data to another module and/or otherwise enable another module to read the data there from. Note further that in an exemplary embodiment, the modules are configured to read the data from another module, at least providing that the other module enables such reading.
In view of the above, it is to be understood that the modules can be configured so as to have the capability of communicating amongst themselves. In an exemplary embodiment, the modules or otherwise the module system is configured to prompt or otherwise enable the communication amongst themselves without instructions or otherwise prompting from outside the system. As will be detailed below, in an exemplary embodiment, the modules are configured so as to be self-reconfiguring and/or so as to enable one or more modules to reconfigure one or more other modules or at least instruct one or more other modules to reconfigure themselves. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, with respect to the module 2130 of
The communications between the modules may be executed by way of example only and not by way of limitation, and thus the modules may be configured to communicate via wired connection from the transmitting to the receiving module; wired connection from the transmitting, through an intermediate module, to the receiving module; wireless connection by implanted coil or antenna from the transmitting to the receiving module using near-field (inductive) or medium-field coupling; wireless connection in both directions between the implanted module and an external device such as an audiologist's programming interface or the recipient's own sound processor and/or wireless connection between one and any number of other modules using the external device as an intermediary. Any device, system, and/or method of communication between the modules can be utilized in at least some exemplary embodiments. In an exemplary embodiment, the modules can include, by way of example only and not by way of limitation, an implantable coil with connector, an intelligent actuator with RF decoder and driver, capable of receiving both power and audio signal from a coil, and also two-way communication with an external device or another module, an implantable sound processor with battery and integrated microphone, an implantable sound processor with battery and pendant microphone and/or an implantable intelligent microphone. To this again, in an exemplary embodiment, a given system can include a plurality of modules that are in turn in communication with a plurality of modules or otherwise are enabled to be placed or otherwise placed themselves into signal communication with a plurality of modules. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, with respect to the embodiment of
At least some exemplary embodiments of the teachings detailed herein can have utilitarian value with respect to enabling the combination and/or recombination and/or the decombination, etc. of modules of a module system as circumstances associated with the recipient change or otherwise other changes occur, where such changes can have utilitarian value. The following will be described in terms of some exemplary scenarios of changing a given system by removing and/or incorporating additional modules. The following exemplary scenario is just that, exemplary. It is to be understood that other exemplary scenarios are applicable to the teachings detailed herein and/or variations thereof.
By way of example only and not by way of limitation, an initial scenario may exist where a module system that includes an implantable component is implanted in a pediatric recipient. Initially, the pediatric recipient is implanted with only the communication unit 644 (e.g., the receiver coil) and an implantable intelligent actuator 620. This corresponds to the embodiment of
In this exemplary scenario, module 1320 is initially programmed or otherwise configured with data/information residing in nonvolatile memory thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the nonvolatile memory (e.g., a block thereof), includes information/data enabling identification of that module when read or otherwise accessed. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, the information/data can include the actuator module, the serial number of the module and/or of the actuator, the manufacturing date, etc. Indeed in an exemplary embodiment, case specific/recipient specific information can be included or otherwise stored in the memory. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, a recipient identification information can be stored in the memory, the implant center information to and/or the implant date can be stored in the memory. Still further, in another block of the nonvolatile memory, parameters specific to the recipient's method of ossicular attachment can be stored therein. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, information relating to attachment to the incus body, the incus long process, the stapedotomy or round window membrane can be stored therein. Still further, in an exemplary embodiment, the nonvolatile memory includes information or data relating to mapping of predicted output in equivalent SLP to input voltage. Any data or information having utilitarian value can be stored in the memory.
In an exemplary embodiment, the system of
It is briefly noted that for purposes of linguistic economy, any disclosure of a first module reading data from a memory of a second module corresponds to a disclosure of the alternate embodiment and/or the additional embodiment of the second module uploading that data to the first module, unless otherwise noted.
The following is directed towards operation of the system of
Continuing with the exemplary scenario of use, as the recipient matures from the pediatric state, or otherwise as technology advances, there becomes a point in time where it is utilitarian to upgrade the system to a so-called totally implantable system. In this regard,
In an exemplary embodiment, the old module 1320 (module 1320 OLD—hereinafter, the nomenclature “OLD” will be dispensed with) is configured to accommodate the fact that it no longer receives “raw” RF signals from communication module 1344. Instead, it receives signals that are analogous to indoor the same as the signals that it is internal stimulator (the stimulator of the intelligent actuator) outputs to the actuator. That is, the functionality of the module 1320/the intelligence actuator has been reduced to that of actuator 340 of
Concomitant with the embodiment of
Note that
With regard to
It is noted that in the exemplary embodiment of
In an exemplary embodiment of use/implantation, as noted above, module 1320 is the old module. When module 1320 is connected via the connectors 610 to module 1444, in an exemplary embodiment, module 1320 detects the signature of the module 1444 (e.g., the signal processor 730 and output a signature and/or can have a signature they can be read by module 1320, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, this occurs automatically upon (which includes subsequent) to the establishment of signal communication between module 1444 and module 1320. Upon such occurrence, module 1320 automatically reconfigures itself so as to direct the input from module 1444 to the output mapping circuit and the actuator motor of module 1320. This as opposed to directing the output from module 1444 to the RF decoder circuitry of module 1320. That is, module 1320 automatically reconfigures itself so as to operate in the non-intelligent mode/to operate in a manner akin to the traditional actuator 340 of
In an exemplary embodiment, the above identification/control/reconfigurations, etc. occurs automatically, and is transparent to the surgeon and/or clinician who is implanting the module 1444. In this regard, in an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary method of surgery entails, after obtaining access to the implant system including modules 1344 and 1320, disconnect module 1344 from module 1320, remove module 1344 from the recipient, connect module 1444 to old module 1320, secure module 1444 to tissue of the recipient. In an exemplary embodiment, these are the only method actions executed between the time just before the module 1344 is disconnected from module 1320 to just after the time that module 1444 is secured to tissue of the recipient and/or just after the time that module 1444 is connected to old module 1320 so as to have a fully functioning totally implantable hearing prosthesis in the recipient. In this regard, in an exemplary embodiment, a surgeon or other healthcare professional or the like need not make adjustments for provide input into the module 1320 and/or the module 1444 to make the two modules work with each other so as to establish a hearing percept. That said, in an exemplary embodiment, fitting data or the like from module 2342 could be transferred to module 1444 prior to implantation or after implantation. However, that data simply customizes module 1444 to the recipient. That is, the data makes module 1444 and module 1320 more functional—those modules are already functional and the first instance.
It is noted that the embodiment of
With regard to
The implanted module 1444 can also include any of the data just detailed with respect to module 2342, but directed to the module 1444. In an exemplary embodiment, module 1444 can further include such data as the battery state, the usage history, etc. Note also that this data can also be present in the module 2342, but directed to module 1444. As will be detailed below, module 1444 can also include a logic circuit to determine if it is being operated in a hybrid mode, and thus can be configured to output signals to a cochlear implant. With respect to the scenario where module 1644 is instead being utilized, any of the aforementioned data associated with module 1444, but directed to module 1644, can be stored therein in the memory of module 1644. Note also that data relating to microphone parameters, such as by way of example only and not by way of limitation, sensitivity data obtained from the fitting process, etc. can be stored in that module 1644. Again, as will be detailed below, module 1444 and/or module 1644 includes a logic circuit that evaluates whether or not the battery is flat or will become flat (a “disablement mode”), as is schematically represented by the flowchart depicted in
Here, the module 2342 captures sound and processes that captured sound just as it would have done in the embodiment of 23 prior to conversion of the implant to the fully implantable system. The process sound is converted into a RF signal and transmitted from module 2342 to module 1444, where coil 610 receives that signal. In this exemplary embodiment, module 1444 is configured to automatically recognize that it is incapable of processing signals from the microphone for whatever reason, and thus is configured to automatically place itself into a pass-through mode so as to pass the signal received by coil 610 to the actuator 620 (module 1320 OLD). By way of example only and not by way of limitation, a logic circuit within module 1444 can be configured to detect a low battery level or the like, and thus redirect input (or control the components of module 14442 redirect input) from the coil 610 directly to the actuator 620 (module 1320 OLD). In an exemplary embodiment, module 1444 is configured to automatically instruct module 1320 OLD to treat the signals from module 1444 as RF signals. In an exemplary embodiment, upon the occurrence of the failure mode and/or the disablement mode, module 1444 is configured to automatically provide an indication to module 1320 that it is instead module 1344 (communications unit/receiver unit 644) or otherwise treat signal there from as if those signals were from module 1344. In an exemplary embodiment, module 1444 can be configured to embed a code into the output thereof that will be read by module 1320 OLD such that module 1320 OLD will treat the signal as an RF signal and operate accordingly. Alternatively, and/or in addition to this, in an exemplary embodiment, module 1320 OLD is configured to detect that there exists a code and/or there is an absence of a code in the signal from module 1444, and thus reconfigure itself to operate in the intelligent actuator mode. In an exemplary embodiment, module 1320 OLD is configured to read or otherwise evaluate the status of module 1444, and upon a determination that module 1444 has experienced a failure mode and/or a disablement mode, operate in the intelligent actuator mode.
To be clear, in an exemplary embodiment, there is a method where an implanted battery goes flat or otherwise goes to a low-power state, and the system self-reconfigures into a semi-implantable hearing prosthesis, passing the signal from the external sound processor through to the actuator or to the other intelligent components thereof so as to evoke a hearing percept. In an exemplary embodiment, this action is automatic upon the battery going flat, in an alternate embodiment, this action is automatic when the battery power capacity reaches a low level or otherwise when a low level battery capacity is detected. That said, alternatively, and/or in addition to this, the reconfiguration of the system to a partially or semi implantable hearing prostheses can be executed via a “manual” invocation thereof.
In view of the above, it can be understood that in an exemplary embodiment, there is an implantable device, such as by way of example only and not by way of limitation, an implantable hearing prosthesis, comprising an implantable module (e.g., module 1444), including a first functional component (e.g., sound processor 730). In this exemplary embodiment, the implantable module is configured to effectively differentiate between a plurality of different second functional modules respectively placeable into signal communication with the module. In an exemplary embodiment, the different second functional modules can be selected from the group of the intelligent actuator module 1320, the standard actuator module 1540, the pendulum microphone module 1650 (intelligent or standard microphone), the cochlear implant stimulator module 1020 (intelligent or standard stimulator), etc. Consistent with the teachings detailed above, the implantable module of this exemplary embodiment is configured to analyze respective signals from the plurality of different second modules and determine a respective functionality of the second modules based on the respective signals. In an exemplary embodiment, this corresponds to a scenario where one or more of the second modules outputs an identification signal to the implantable module indicating its functionality or otherwise what module it is (intelligent actuator, pendulum microphone, bone conduction actuator, implantable battery module, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, this corresponds to a scenario where the implantable module analyzes standard operational signals from these modules with respect to a closed circuit extending between the implantable module and the respective second modules to determine the respective functionality of the second modules. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, with respect to the embodiment where module 1020 is placed into signal communication with module 1444 or another implantable module, module 1444 or another implantable module could analyze the impedance of the given circuit to determine that module 1020 is placed into signal communication therewith. This can also be the case with respect to any of the other modules. For example, with respect to the modules corresponding to the remote pendulum microphones, the implantable module could analyze the signal and recognize, based on the frequency content thereof, that such corresponds to an audio signal, and because the implantable module has logic or otherwise is programmed to recognize that such a signal corresponds to a remote pendulum microphone, determine that the second module is a microphone module. Still further by way of example only and not by way of limitation, with respect to a remote inductance coil module, the implantable module could be configured to analyze the signal and determine that such signal corresponds to an RF signal, and because the implantable module is programmed or otherwise contains logic to identify such a signal as an RF signal, can determine that the module is a inductance coil module. It is noted that in some exemplary embodiments, lookup tables or the like can be utilized. Any device, system, and/or method that can enable the implantable module to analyze respective signals from the different second modules and determine the respective functionality thereof based on the signals can be utilized in at least some exemplary embodiments.
By “effectively differentiate,” it is meant that the implantable module can affirmatively differentiate between different modules placed into signal communication there with (e.g., the module knows that another module is a module for X, Y or Z etc.), and also that the implantable module can affirmatively differentiate between different modules because one module is acting differently than another module and/or that a given module is not providing data or otherwise is not reacting as it would if it was one such module. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, the implantable module could default to a conclusion that any module in signal communication there with that does not have identifying information is a microphone module or an inductance coil module (i.e., a module that does not have an active component). Thus, it would effectively differentiate between modules even though it is not affirmatively identifying the module.
Still further, in an exemplary embodiment, it can be understood that the implantable module is configured to adjust an operational parameter of the functional component based on the effective differentiation. In an exemplary embodiment, such as where the module is the intelligent actuator module 1320, the functional component can be a tissue stimulation device, and the implantable module is configured to enable the tissue stimulation device to operate differently based on the effective differentiation. With reference to the above exemplary scenario, if the intelligent actuator module 1320 determines that it is in signal communication with an inductance coil module corresponding to 1344, the module 1320 will control the tissue stimulation device to operate in the intelligent actuator mode, decode the RF frequencies and develop stimulation/driver output based on those received RF frequencies, which output is provided to the actuator of module 1320 to evoke a hearing percept. Conversely, if the intelligent actuator module 1320 determines that it is in signal communication with an implantable sound processor or the like (even if such determination is simply based on the fact that the signal is not an RF signal, thus effectively differentiating between a signal from an implantable signal processor module and from an implantable inductance coil module), the module 1320 will pass the signal directly to the actuator without the decoding and without generating a stimulator/driver signal. That is, the module 1320 will place the tissue stimulation device into the standard mode of operation. Corollary to this is that in an exemplary embodiment, the implantable module is configured to enable the tissue stimulation device to selectively operate under one of two regimes based on the effective differentiation. In an exemplary embodiment, the first regime of the two regimes is an operation of the tissue stimulating device in a smart device mode (e.g., that which decodes the RF signal and develops a stimulation/driver signal based thereon—the intelligent actuator mode). In an exemplary embodiment, the second regime of the two regimes is an operation of the tissue stimulating device in a slave mode (e.g., module 1320 receives the stimulation/driver signals from module 1444 and operates the actuator based solely on those signals—the standard mode of the intelligent actuator).
By “smart mode,” it is meant a mold in which the module operates in a more autonomous manner than that of the “slave mode.” By “slave mode,” it is meant that the module operates as a slave to the other module. That is, it is controlled by the other module. This is differentiated from operation where the module receives a signal and analyzes the signal and develops an operation mode based on the analysis. Again, with respect to the exemplary embodiment of the smart actuator, the slave mode is that which the intelligent actuator receives stimulation/driver signals and applies those driver signals to the actuator. In an exemplary embodiment of slave mode with respect to an intelligent cochlear implant electrode array (described in greater detail below) would be the receipt by module 1820 of a stimulation signal/drive signal from an implantable sound processor module, where the module 1820 stimulates tissue utilizing the electrode thereof bypassing that stimulation signal/drive signal directly to the electrodes.
Note also that in view of the above, it can be understood that in an exemplary embodiment, there is an implantable system, such as by way of example only and not by way of limitation, the system of
In view of the teachings herein, it is to be understood that in an exemplary embodiment, the first implantable module can include a signature detection functionality to analyze the signal from a module remote from the first module. This implantable first module can be configured such that, based on the analysis of the signal, the first implantable module determines that a circumstance has changed and adopt the second role. Consistent with the teachings detailed herein, in an exemplary embodiment, the first module can be module 1320, where the module 1320 is configured to analyze a signature of the module 1444, and, based on that analyzed signature, determine that it should operate in standard mode as opposed to intelligent actuator mode because there is a signal processor implanted in the recipient signal communication there with.
Still further, it is to be understood that in an exemplary embodiment, there exists an implantable system that includes the aforementioned first module along with a second module, where the second module has a functionality of a tissue stimulator. Again, this can be module 1320 although in other embodiments, this could be other modules as detailed herein. The first role of the first module (e.g., 1444) is that of a sound processor that receives a sound signal from an implantable microphone and wired communication with the sound processor. That first role further includes the ability to output a first control signal to a tissue stimulator in signal communication with the first module to activate the second module (e.g., module 1320) to stimulate tissue based on the first control signal. In an exemplary embodiment, the second role of the first module (e.g., 1444) is that of at least one of: (i) a receiver-stimulator that receives a signal from an external module external to the recipient and provides a stimulator control signal based on the received signal to activate the second module to stimulate tissue; or (ii) a pass-through device that receives the signal from the external module external to the recipient and provides the signal to the second module to activate the second module to stimulate tissue based on the received signal.
Corollary to the teachings above, in an exemplary embodiment, the system includes a second module in signal communication with the first module. The first implantable module is configured to send a first signal to the second module indicating the functionality of the first module. The second module is configured to automatically adapt itself to function differently upon receipt of the first signal so that the second module is operationally compatible with the first module. In an exemplary embodiment, the first module can be module 1444, and the second module can be module 1320, where module 1320 adapts itself to function as a standard actuator as opposed to an intelligent actuator upon receipt of this first signal. That said, that first signal can be a signal from the module 1444 indicating that the actuator 1320 should operate in the intelligent actuator mode, because there exists a disablement mode and/or a failure mode of module 1444. Still further, the first module can be an external component of the hearing prostheses, as will now be described.
While the embodiments detailed above have been directed towards the scenario where module 1444 experiences some type of failure mode and/or disablement mode, in an alternate embodiment, there need not be some form of failure mode and/or disablement mode to result in the configuration of
Corollary to all of the above is that in an exemplary embodiment, there is an implantable module that can differentiate between modules as detailed above, where the implantable module is configured to differentiate between an implantable signal processor and an external signal processor based on a received signal (whether that signal is automatically generated from the implantable signal processor module with the external signal processor module, or whether that signal is a result of an interrogation by the implantable module of the external signal processor module or the implantable signal processor module).
Note also that in some alternate embodiments, module 1444 can be configured to provide signals based on sound captured by both the external module 2342 and the implantable module 1444. The intelligent actuator 620 (module 1320 OLD) can be configured to receive both signals perhaps in an interleave manner or the like, or via separate leads, and evaluate the signals and determine which signal should be utilized to evoke a hearing percept. Indeed, the signals can arrive from two separate sources entirely (i.e., one signal may never pass through module 1444).
It is noted that while the teachings detailed above have been directed towards the conversion of a middle ear implant from a partially implantable hearing prosthesis to a fully implantable hearing prosthesis, these teachings can be also applicable to other types of hearing prostheses, such as by way of example only and not by way of limitation, cochlear implants and bone conduction devices. In this regard,
With reference back to
Subsequent to use of the embodiment corresponding to
Briefly, it is noted that in an alternative embodiment, instead of a communication unit that communicates with both of modules 1320 and 1820, in an alternate embodiment, two separate communication modules 1344 are provided, as can be seen in
In an exemplary embodiment, the external component 3299 is configured to recognize module 1320 and/or module 1820 upon the establishment of signal communication therewith. In an exemplary embodiment, the external component 3299 is configured with logic or otherwise circuitry so as to encode or otherwise manipulate the output such that the lower and/or medium frequency range signals outputted by module 3299 are utilized only by module 1320, and the high frequency and possibly the medium frequency range signals outputted by module 3299 are utilized only by module 1820 (or at least there is some form of bifurcation of the output, where possible overlap can exist). Concomitant with the teachings detailed above, the external module 3299 can be configured to read or otherwise access memory in the modules 1320 and/or 1820 so as to identify those modules and determine how the output of module 3299 should be managed so that the respective modules operate according to their respective functions vis-à-vis the hybrid arrangement (e.g., evoke a hearing percept at different frequencies). Still further, alternatively and/or in addition to this, the external module 3299 can be configured so that the modules 1320 and/or 1820 can read the memory therein and determine that module 3299 is an external component of a hybrid hearing prostheses so that those modules can operate accordingly. Note also that in some exemplary embodiments, module 1320 and/or module 1820 can be configured to recognize and/or be recognized by the other of module 1320 and/or module 1820. Such can occur via signal communication through module 1344A or through modules 1344 and module 3299.
Still, in an exemplary embodiment, a logic circuit within module 3299 can be configured to detect the presence of the module 1820 via the transcutaneous inductance link established with the pertinent communication module. Alternatively, and/or in addition to this, that logic circuit or another logic circuit within module 3299 can be configured to detect the presence of module 1320 via the transcutaneous inductance link established with the pertinent communication module. Upon such detection, the module 3299 can automatically configure itself to operate in a hybrid mode, or more accurately, to output signals so that modules 1320 and module 1820 will operate in the hybrid mode.
Any of the techniques detailed herein to enable automatic recognition of one module by another module or otherwise automatic reconfiguration of one module or otherwise automatic change of operation, etc. of a module as a result of that module being placed into signal communication with another module can be utilized in the embodiment of
Note that while the aforementioned embodiment entailing upgrading to a hybrid system has been directed towards a partially implantable hearing prosthesis, in an exemplary embodiment, such can also be the case with a fully implantable hearing prosthesis. In this regard, the recipient begins with a partially implantable hearing prostheses according to
Subsequent to use of the embodiment corresponding to
Briefly, it is noted that in an alternative embodiment, instead of utilizing a splitter that communicates with both of modules 1320 and 1820, in an alternate embodiment, two (or more) separate connectors can be provided with respect to module 1444 (implantable body 722). Indeed,
In an exemplary embodiment, module 1444 is configured to recognize module 1320 and/or module 1820 upon the establishment of signal communication therewith. In an exemplary embodiment, the module 1444 is configured with logic or otherwise circuitry so as to encode or otherwise manipulate the output such that the lower and/or medium frequency range signals outputted by module 1444 are utilized only by module 1320, and the high frequency and possibly the medium frequency range signals outputted by module 1444 are utilized only by module 1820 (or at least there is some form of bifurcation of the output, where possible overlap can exist). Concomitant with the teachings detailed above, the module 1444 can be configured to read or otherwise access memory in the modules 1320 and/or 1820 so as to identify those modules and determine how the output of module 1444 should be managed so that the respective modules operate according to their respective functions vis-à-vis the hybrid arrangement (e.g., evoke a hearing percept at different frequencies). Still further, alternatively, and/or in addition to this, the external module 1444 can be configured so that the modules 1320 and/or 1820 can read the memory therein and determine that module 1444 is an implantable sound processor of a hybrid hearing prosthesis so that those modules can operate accordingly. Note also that in some exemplary embodiments, module 1320 and/or module 1820 can be configured to recognize and/or be recognized by the other of module 1320 and/or module 1820. Such can occur via signal communication through module 3510 or through module 1444
Still, in an exemplary embodiment, a logic circuit within module 1444 can be configured to detect the presence of the module 1820 via signal communication established with the pertinent communication module. Alternatively, and/or in addition to this, that logic circuit or another logic circuit within module 1444 can be configured to detect the presence of module 1320 via the establishment of signal communication established with the pertinent communication module. Upon such detection, the module 1444 can automatically configure itself to operate in a hybrid mode, or more accurately, to output signals so that modules 1320 and module 1820 will operate in the hybrid mode.
Any of the techniques detailed herein to enable automatic recognition of one module by another module or otherwise automatic reconfiguration of one module or otherwise automatic change of operation, etc. of a module as a result of that module being placed into signal communication with another module can be utilized in the embodiment of
It is noted that in an exemplary embodiment, there can be a dedicated output from the implant body 744 in general, and from the signal processor 730 in particular, to the cochlear implant module 1820, and another dedicated output from the implant body 744 in general, and from the signal processor 730 in particular, to the intelligent actuator module 1320. Such dedicated outputs can provide audio signals or signals based on audio data to the respective modules.
It is noted that in an exemplary embodiment, the implantable body 744 can be configured with a logic circuit that detects the presence of the various modules based on, for example, the characteristic input impedances thereof.
It is briefly noted that the embodiment of
It is briefly noted that some exemplary embodiments include the utilization of a so-called external programmer. In an exemplary embodiment, the external programmer passes instructions to one or more modules of the implant system or otherwise provides data to one or more modules of the implant system so as to have an efficacious use thereof.
It is noted that while the embodiment of
In view of the above, it is to be understood that at least some exemplary embodiments include an implantable module that is configured to effectively differentiate between other modules placed into signal communication there with. With respect to the above-noted embodiment of the implantable module that has a first functional component, in an exemplary embodiment, the first functional component and implantable speech processor, and the implantable module corresponds to a first module. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, this first module can correspond to module 1444. Still further by way of example, the first module is configured to automatically recognize that the second module has been placed into signal communication with the first module and recognize the second module is a module having a second functionality of a mechanical tissue stimulator. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, this can correspond to module 1320. With respect to an exemplary embodiment where the recipient ultimately upgrades to a hybrid of the like, the implantable module can be configured to automatically recognize that a third module has been placed into signal communication with the first module and recognize that the third module is a module having a third functionality of an electric tissue stimulator. By way of example, such can correspond to module 1820. In an exemplary embodiment, the first module (e.g., module 1444) is configured to automatically adjust an operating regime of at least one of the second module of the third module based on the automatic recognition. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, in a scenario where the implantable prosthesis is upgraded to a hybrid, the adjustments of the operating regime could be the adjustment to that of module 1320 such that module 1320 only stimulates at the lower frequencies whereas prior to the adjustments, module 1320 stimulated at all frequencies (low, medium and high frequencies). Corollary to this is that in an exemplary embodiment, the adjustment of the operating regime of the second module of the third module is one that reduces the operational range thereof. Again, in a scenario where recipient is losing his or her high frequency hearing with respect to mechanical stimulation of the cochlea or other tissue, and the third module is a module of a cochlear implant electrode array, the second module would no longer have the operational range across as much of the frequency spectrum as that which was the case prior to the implantation. Corollary to this is that in an exemplary embodiment, the operating regime of the other of the second module of the third module (e.g., in this embodiment, module 1820) is one that was encompassed at least in part by the operating regime of the second module prior to the reduction of the operational range. Again with respect to the embodiment where the module 1820 is provided to provide stimulation of the high frequency ranges, module 1820 thus operates in a range that was previously encompassed by that of module 1320.
Continuing with respect to the above-noted embodiment of the implantable module that has a first functional component, in an exemplary embodiment, the first functional component is one of a mechanical tissue stimulator (e.g., a middle ear actuator) or an electric tissue stimulator (e.g., a cochlear implant electrode array). In at least some exemplary embodiments, the implantable module can correspond to a first module, and this implantable module is configured to automatically recognize that a second module has been placed into signal communication with the first module and recognize that the second module is a module having a functionality corresponding to the other of a mechanical tissue stimulator or an electric tissue stimulator. In an exemplary embodiment, with respect to the aforementioned upgrade to the hybrid devices via the addition of module 1820, in an exemplary embodiment, module 1320 (or the pertinent external module, etc.) can be configured to automatically recognize that module 1820 has been placed into signal communication therewith. Module 1320 is configured to recognize that module 1820 has a functionality different from that of module 1320. In this exemplary embodiment, this first module (e.g., module 1320) is configured to automatically adjust an operating regime of the first functional component (e.g. the actuator) based on the automatic recognition of module 1820. That said, in an alternate embodiment, the second module can be configured to automatically adjust an operating regime of the second and functional component thereof based on this automatic recognition.
Still further, in an exemplary embodiment, the adjustment of the operating regime of the first functional component with a section functional component is one that reduces the operating range thereof. For example, whereas the operational range of the module 1320 could have been stimulating at all frequencies, the adjustments of the operating regime could result in stimulation by module 1320 only at low and/or low and middle frequencies. Still further, the operating regime of the other of the first functional component of the second functional component is one that was encompassed by that of the first functional component with a second functional component prior to the reduction of the operating range.
Still with reference to an exemplary embodiment corresponding to a hybrid hearing prosthesis, in an exemplary embodiment, as noted above, there is an exemplary implantable system that includes a first implantable module having a first role in the implantable system, wherein the first implantable module is configured to adopt a second roll automatically upon a changed circumstance. In this exemplary embodiment, the system includes a second module (e.g., 1320) in signal communication with the first module, the second module being an actuator of a mechanical stimulator. The first role of the first module is to receive a first signal based on captured sound having a frequency content including a first frequency content and a second frequency content and provide signals to drive the actuator based on the first signal to evoke a hearing percept at frequencies corresponding to the first frequency content and the second frequency content. In this regard, this can correspond to a scenario where the first module is module 1444 operating in a pre-hybrid mode prior to an upgrade. Still with respect to this exemplary embodiment, the second role can be to receive a second signal based on captured sound having a frequency content including the first frequency content and the second frequency content and provide signals to drive the actuator based on the second signal to evoke a hearing percept at frequencies corresponding to the first frequency content, but not the second frequency content. In this regard, this can correspond to a scenario where the first module is module 1444 operating in the post hybrid upgrade mode, where the module 1444 is bifurcating the frequencies into a component that will be utilized for electrical stimulation via module 1820 and a component that will be utilized for the actuator 1320. Note also that in this exemplary embodiment, the second module can be a so-called standard actuator, such as the actuator of module 1540. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the second role can also be to provide signals to drive a cochlear implant based on the second signal to evoke a hearing percept at frequencies corresponding to the second frequency content but not the first frequency content.
Note also that the utilitarian teachings detailed herein and/or variations thereof can be also applicable to bilateral implants. In this regard,
In an exemplary embodiment, each of the modules 650 and 4150 are initially programmed with information which resides in the memory thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the memory includes identifying information identifying the microphones as the left side microphone and right side microphone respectively. Still further, in an exemplary embodiment, the memory can include (e.g., in another block thereof) fitting parameters specific to the recipient and the microphone. By way of example only and not by way of limitation, such fitting parameters can include identification of the left or right side, and equalization curve for sensitivity, and/or desired group delay, etc. Any information that has utilitarian value with respect to operating a bilateral prosthesis can be stored in the memory in at least some exemplary embodiments.
In view of the above, it is to be understood that at least some exemplary embodiments include an implantable module that is configured to effectively differentiate between other modules placed into signal communication therewith. With respect to this exemplary embodiment, the aforementioned implantable module can correspond to module 4144, and the functional component can be sound processor 730. The plurality of different second modules mentioned above can be implantable microphones having recorded therein data indicating which side of the recipient the implantable microphones are implanted. The second modules can correspond to modules 1650 and 4150 detailed above. Still further, the implantable module (e.g., module 4144) can be configured to at least one of read the data in the microphones or receive a signal from the microphones with the respective data and adjust operation of the functional component based on the data. In this exemplary embodiment where the functional component is the sound processor, the sound processor will be adjusted so as to take into account the difference in timing between sound being captured on, for example, the left side microphone and sound being captured on for example the right side microphone. In an exemplary embodiment where the actuator module 1320 is implanted such that it provides mechanical stimulation to the recipient's right side cochlea (where such an exemplary embodiment can also include the actuator that includes a memory in which is located data indicating which side of the recipient the actuator is implanted—indeed, in an exemplary embodiment, module 4144 is configured to at least one of read the data in the actuator and/or receive a signal from the actuator indicating which side the actuator is implanted—that said, in an alternative embodiment, the module 4144 is simply programmed with such data), the sound processor can impart a delay with respect to the input from one of the microphones relative to the other so as to provide a more realistic hearing percept vis-à-vis the fact that one ear will naturally hear a sound originating at one side of the recipient relative to another side of the recipient.
In an exemplary embodiment, module 4144 includes a memory unit, concomitant with the other modules with the implantable sound processor detailed above, and the memory can include data corresponding to parameters that take into account the location of the microphones as well as the implanted actuator location. (In this regard, module 1320 can include a memory that includes the implantation side of the actuator (left or right side, etc.)—in an exemplary embodiment, module 4144 is configured to read this memory or otherwise access this memory so as to determine which side the actuator is located on the recipient, and adjust the processing regime of the signal processor accordingly.) In an exemplary embodiment, module 4144 is configured to read the memories of the microphones to determine which microphones are located on which side of the recipient, and adjust the processing regime of the sound processor accordingly.
Still with reference to an exemplary embodiment corresponding to a bimodal hearing prosthesis, in an exemplary embodiment, as noted above, there is an exemplary implantable system that includes a first implantable module having a first role in the implantable system, wherein the first implantable module is configured to adopt a second roll automatically upon a changed circumstance. In this exemplary embodiment, the first implantable module includes a sound processor, and the first role is a role of a sound processor that processes sound captured by the implantable microphone only on a first side of the recipient. The second role is a role of the sound processor that processes sound captured by an implantable microphone on a second side of the recipient. Note that in this exemplary embodiment, the second role can also include processing sound captured by the implantable microphone on the first side of the recipient.
It is noted that the teachings detailed herein are also applicable to external acoustic hearing aids, whether or not such be part of a hybrid system, such as the embodiment of
It is noted that some exemplary embodiments of the systems detailed herein are such that sound streaming from an external source can utilize the same communications protocol as that for the external microphone. That said, in some alternate embodiments, a different communications protocol is utilized for streaming sounds than that utilized for the external microphone. Accordingly, by way of example only and not by way of limitation, at least one of the implantable modules is configured to recognize whether or not an external module in signal communication therewith is providing streaming sound data and/or sound data captured from a microphone, and adjust the functionality thereof accordingly. Note also that some exemplary embodiments utilize different frequencies other than the communications frequency to recharge the implantable battery(s). In such an exemplary embodiment, this can enable concurrent charging and sound streaming. Accordingly, an exemplary embodiment can determine whether or not a recharging module or the like is in signal communication with the implanted modules detailed herein and adjust the functionality of such modules accordingly. An exemplary change in the functionality thereof could be adjusting the internal circuitry so as to be receptive to the different frequencies utilized by the battery charger.
In view of the above, it is to be understood that some exemplary embodiments include exemplary methods utilizing the teachings detailed herein. In this regard,
Again, the operation of the implantable component as part of a fully implantable prosthesis occurs automatically based on the second received signal. This is as distinguished from a scenario where the surgeon or the like modifies or otherwise adjusts the operation of the implantable component prior to operation thereof.
In an exemplary embodiment, the action of operating the implantable component as part of a partially implantable prosthesis is executed prior to the action of operating the implantable component is part of a fully implantable prosthesis. In an exemplary embodiment, such a temporal regime corresponds to that which would result from upgrading a partially implantable hearing prosthesis to a fully implantable hearing prosthesis.
Referring now to
Concomitant with the concept of operating the implantable component as part of a partially implantable prosthesis even though the prostheses is configured to operate in the fully implantable mode (albeit circumstances prevent such), in view of the above, it is to be understood that the action of operating the implantable component as part of a partially implantable prosthesis based on the third receive signal can be executed automatically by the implantable component based on an analysis of a state of the system by the implantable component and executed while the structure for a fully implantable prosthesis is implanted in the recipient. This analysis of the state of the system can be based on an analysis of the third signal received by the implantable component. Also concomitant with the exemplary embodiments detailed above, the second received signal can be a signal from a second implantable component (e.g., module 1444) having an implantable microphone (e.g., microphone 740) and/or in signal communication with an implantable microphone (e.g., microphone 950). Still further, the action of operating the implantable component as part of a fully implantable prosthesis is executed automatically upon an analysis of the second received signal by the implantable component.
Still, in an exemplary embodiment, there is any of the methods detailed above and/or below, wherein at least one of: (i) the second implantable component is configured to embed a code in the received signal indicating that the second signal is from a component that enables the implantable component to operate as part of a totally implantable configuration (e.g., module 1444 embeds a signal into a stimulator/driver signal output therefrom); or (ii) the implantable component is configured to extrapolate from the second signal the source thereof and determine that the second signal is from a component that enables the implantable component to operate as part of a totally implantable configuration (e.g., the input to module 1320 is not an RF signal/the input to module 1320 is stimulator/driver signals, and thus the module 1320 recognizes that it should operate in the aforementioned standard mode/slave mode, etc.).
It is noted that in an exemplary embodiment of method action 4300, the implantable component is an implanted sound processor in wired communication with an implanted microphone. In this regard, in an exemplary embodiment, this can be the case where method action 4310 corresponds to the scenario where there is been a failure mode or a deficiency mode where the recipient seeks to utilize an external microphone, etc.
As noted above, there is an exemplary implantable system that includes a first implantable module having a first role in the implantable system, wherein the first implantable module is configured to adopt a second roll automatically upon a changed circumstance. An exemplary embodiment includes a method action comprising surgically implanting at least a portion of the system that includes the first implantable module. In this exemplary method, the first implantable module adopts the second roll automatically during the implantation process upon the establishment of signal communication with a second implantable module. It is noted that by “surgically implanting a system,” that action need not include the action of implanting the first implantable module. In this regard, the first implantable module can be already implanted (e.g., such could be the module 1320, etc.).
As detailed above, the various modules include recorded or otherwise stored therein data. It is noted that in an exemplary embodiment, any one or more of the modules detailed herein and/or variations thereof where generic model in general is configured to at least one of transmit at least a portion of the data stored in the memory to another module or enable another module to read at least a portion of the data stored in the memory. In an exemplary embodiment, the data stored in the memory can correspond to any of the data detailed herein and/or variations thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, the system utilizing the innovative modules detailed herein and/or variations thereof utilizes the data so as to reconfigure a given module or otherwise adjust the operation of the given module or otherwise change the role of a given module, etc., according to the teachings detailed herein.
It is noted that any device and/or system detailed herein also corresponds to a disclosure of a method of operating that device and/or using that device. Furthermore, any device and/or system detailed herein also corresponds to a disclosure of manufacturing or otherwise providing that device and/or system. Corollary to this is that any disclosure of a method herein corresponds to a disclosure of a device and/or system of implementing that method and/or a program product for implementing that method on a computer apparatus. Still further, any functionality of any device and/or system detailed herein corresponds to a method of taking action to achieve such functionality.
Any teaching of any embodiment detailed herein can be combined with one or more of other teachings of other embodiments detailed herein, providing that the art enables such, unless otherwise specified. It is further noted that any particular one or more teachings detailed herein can be omitted from an embodiment when implementing some exemplary embodiments. To be clear, any feature detailed herein can be combined with any other feature detailed herein unless otherwise noted, and/or unless the prior art does not enable such.
While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
