Abstract

Implantable microphone devices that may be utilized in hearing systems are provided. An implantable microphone device allows the implantable microphone's frequency response and sensitivity to be selected. A microphone device with an increased membrane flexibility and a decreased acoustic compliance of the sealed cavity. Vibrations of a membrane are transmitted through a primary air cavity and through an aperture of a microphone. Keeping a flexible membrane and decreasing the sealed air cavity compliance are the preferred way to simultaneously increase overall sensitivity of the device, and move the resonance peak to higher frequencies.

Other References

• HNO--Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde, Kopf-und Hals-Chirurgio, Preprint of Abstracts, "Fully Implantable Hearing Aid TICA LZ 3001 Product Summary," vol. 45, Oct. 1997, 5 pages total
• Schellin, R. et al. "Corona-poled piezoelectric polymer layers of P(VDF/TrFE) for micromachined silicon microphones," J. Micromach. Microeng., vol. 5, pp. 106-108, Jan. 1995
• Scheeper, P.R. et al. "Improvement of the performance of microphones with a silicon nitride diaphragm and backplate," Sensors and Actuators A, vol. 40, pp. 179-186, 1994
• Deddens, A.E. et al. "Totally Implantable Hearing Aids: The Effects of Skin Thickness on Microphone Function," Am. J. Otolaryngol., vol. 11, pp. 1-4, 1990
• Suzuki, Jun-Ichi et al. "Early Studies and the History of Development of the Middle Ear Implant in Japan," Adv. Audiol., vol. 4, pp. 1-14, 1988
• Yanagihara, Naoaki, M.D. et al. "Development of an Implantable Hearing Aid Using a Piezoelectric Vibrator of Bimorph Design: State of the Art," Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, vol. 92, No. 6, pp. 706-712, Dec. 1984
• Ohno, Tohru "The Implantable Hearing Aid, Part I," Audecibel, pp. 28-30, Fall 198