EP1463375B1 - Hearing aid for the external ear with an ear mould - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an outer ear hearing aid with an earmold having at least one acoustic / electrical transducer and / or at least one electrical / acoustic transducer, each with an acoustic input or output, wherein the input or output with a coupling opening on the outer surface of the Otoplastikschale is connected via an acoustic conductor.

In earmolds of the type mentioned, in particular in the case of hearing aids, these in-ear or external-ear hearing aids are usually the acoustic inputs to acoustic / electrical input transducers, microphones and / or the acoustic outputs of electrical / acoustic output transducers, loudspeakers, via acoustic conductor components, eg in the form of tubes, connected to coupling openings on the outer surface of the earmold, provided that these inputs or outputs are not located directly in the surface region of said shell. This procedure is disadvantageous in various aspects.

The geometric arrangement and orientation of the coupling opening on the outer surface of the earmold shell to input transducers is primarily given by the desired acoustic reception characteristic. Thus, by the distance and the location of such coupling openings, with respect to the earmold, a hearing aid, the acoustic reception characteristic can be co-determined. The location of a coupling opening on the output side of a Output transducer is given for example by the relative position of the earmold in the ear canal and the eardrum.

In the case of an outer ear hearing device in which, for example, another tubular, acoustic conductor leads into the auditory canal from the outer surface of the otoplastic, the aforementioned coupling opening is to be arranged such that the mentioned additional acoustic conductor can be optimally guided along the outer ear into the auditory canal. If the position of this coupling opening given by parameters of the type mentioned, then one or more transducers must be integrated in the earmold and in accordance with the available design space and connected to the aforementioned acoustic conductors with the coupling openings. Taking into account that in such active earmolds, such as the hearing aids mentioned, the space available for accommodating transducers and other functional groups of electronics including battery is extremely low, it can be seen that it often prepares quite a lot of effort in the desired position of the coupling openings, the transducers and Integrate the acoustic conductor into the earmould in such a way that the available space and the acoustic conditions are optimally taken into account.

It is an object of the present invention to overcome these disadvantages and to propose an outer ear hearing aid with a Otoplastik mentioned type, in which there is great flexibility to constructively position the intended transducer in the ear mold, largely independent of the position of the coupling openings, without consequently Considerable consideration for the room load due to be provided, separate would take acoustic connections. It should be opened the possibility to flexibly install the aforementioned converter where, under the aspect compactest possible design is the optimal location, regardless of the position of the coupling openings on the outer surface of the earmold and without the provided acoustic connection lines or the space to be provided for this construction co-decisive To assign importance. This is achieved on the earmold mentioned in that the acoustic conductor runs as a channel within and along the one-piece part of the outer surface defining Otoplastikschale and is completely surrounded by the material of the Otoplastikschale.

In other words, the mentioned acoustic conductor is molded integrally into the otoplastic or its shell. Since a shell is to be provided on the earmold anyway with a given wall thickness, for the acoustic conductor to be provided towards the coupling opening or openings, only an inadequate volume of construction is claimed in the earmold, and the conductor guidance can essentially take place from arbitrary to arbitrary positions. Optionally, a plurality of acoustic conductors or channels at least partially signal-technically parallel can be performed. Thus, for example, at a region of the earmold in which the space for a channel of desired cross-sectional area is not available, passed or bypassed by two or more signal parallel channels of smaller cross-sectional areas: The first-mentioned channel branches, the branching channels merge on End of a given expansion section again.

In a preferred embodiment, the mentioned at least one channel along its length varying cross-sectional areas and / or varying cross-sectional shapes, in sections, whereby the acoustic transmission behavior is optimized specifically. Along the channel, in this way, networks of acoustic impedances are created which allow for optimal acoustic matching.

In a further embodiment, the impedance matching can be realized by at least one matching stub which opens into the channel. In order to bridge larger distances between the mentioned transducer and the coupling opening on the earmold according to the invention, it is proposed to guide the at least one channel at least along a substantial portion of its length substantially parallel to the outer earmold surface.

Fig. 1

ein vereinfachtes Schema einer nach dem bevorzugten Verfahren arbeitenden Fertigungsanlage für die Optimierung industrieller Fertigung von Otoplastiken;

Fig. 2

in einer Darstellung analog zu derjenigen von Fig. 1, eine weitere Anlagenkonzeption;

Fig. 3

in Darstellung analog zu denjenigen der Figuren 1 und 2, eine noch weitere Anlagenkonzeption;

Fig. 4

schematisch ein Im-Ohr-Hörgerät mit auf bekannte Art und Weise aufgesetzter Cerumen-Schutzkappe;

Fig. 5

in Darstellung analog zu Fig. 4, ein mit Cerumen-Schutzkappe integral gefertigtes Im-Ohr-Hörgerät;

Fig. 6

ein Im-Ohr-Hörgerät mit einer auf bekannte Art und Weise eingearbeiteten Belüftungsnut;

Fig. 7(a) bis (f)

perspektivisch dargestellte Ausschnitte von Otoplastik-Schalenoberflächen mit neuartigen Belüftungsnuten;

Fig. 8

anhand eines schematischen Ausschnittes einer Otoplastik-Oberfläche, eine Belüftungsnut mit entlang ihrer Längsausdehnung variierendem Querschnitt bzw. variierender Querschnittsform;

Fig. 9

schematisch eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit verlängerter Belüftungsnut;

Fig. 10

in Darstellung analog zu Fig. 9, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit mehreren Belüftungsnuten;

Fig. 11 (a) bis (e)

Ausschnitte von Otoplastikschalen mit eingearbeiteten Belüftungskanälen verschiedener Querschnittsformen und Dimensionen;

Fig. 12

in einer Darstellung analog zu derjenigen von Fig. 8, ein Belüftungskanal in einer Otoplastikschale mit entlang seiner Längsausdehnung variierender Querschnittsform bzw. variierender Querschnittsfläche;

Fig. 13

in Analogie zur Darstellung von Fig. 9, schematisch eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit eingearbeitetem, verlängerten Belüftungskanal;

Fig. 14

in Darstellung analog zu Fig. 10, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit mehreren Belüftungskanälen;

Fig. 15

schematisch eine Länggsschnittdarstellung einer Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit gerippter Innenfläche;

Fig. 16

einen Ausschnitt der Otoplastik gemäss Fig. 15 im Querschnitt, wobei die Rippen unterschiedliche Querschnittsflächen aufweisen;

Fig. 17

perspektivisch den Ausschnitt einer Otoplastikschale mit Innenrippung nach Fig. 15 oder 16, wobei die Rippen entlang ihrer Längsausdehnung unterschiedliche Querschnittsformen und Dimensionen aufweisen;

Fig. 18

in Darstellung analog zu Fig. 15, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit Aussenrippung;

Fig. 19

schematisch einen Ausschnitt aus einer gemäss Fig. 18 gerippten Otoplastikschale mit Rippen unterschiedlicher Querschnittsflächen;

Fig. 20

schematisch einen Querschnitt durch eine Otoplastik mit Aussenrippung, ggf. Innenrippung, und mindestens teilweise Füllmaterial-gefülltem Innenraum;

Fig. 21

schematisch einen Längsschnitt-Ausschnitt einer Otoplastikschale mit biege- und stauchflexibler Partie;

Fig. 22

schematisch im Längsschnitt, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik mit Aufnahmeraum für ein Elektronikmodul;

Fig. 23

die Otoplastik nach Fig. 22 bei ihrem Aufstülpen über ein Elektronikmodul;

Fig. 24

perspektivisch und schematisch, eine Im-Ohr-Otoplastik, wie insbesondere ein Im-Ohr-Hörgerät, mit zweiteiliger, separierbarer und assemblierbarer Otoplastikschale;

Fig. 25

ausschnittsweise und schematisch, die erfindungsgemässe Integration von akustischen Leitern und Anpassgliedern zu einem akustisch/elektrischen oder elektrisch/akustischen Wandler, in einer Otoplastik;

Fig. 26

in Darstellung analog zu derjenigen von Fig. 25, die erfindungsgemässe Anordnung zweier oder mehrerer akustischer Leiter in der Schale einer Otoplastikschale, und

Fig. 27

anhand eines vereinfachten Signalfluss/Funktionsblockdiagrammes, ein neuartiges Vorgehen bzw. eine neuartige Anordnung zu dessen Ausführung, bei dem bzw. der die Dynamik des Applikationsbereiches einer Otoplastik für deren Formgebung berücksichtigt wird.

The invention will be explained by way of example with reference to figures. These show:

Fig. 1

a simplified diagram of a working according to the preferred method manufacturing plant for the optimization of industrial production of earmolds;

Fig. 2

in a representation analogous to that of Figure 1, a further plant design.

Fig. 3

in representation analogous to those of Figures 1 and 2, a still further plant design;

Fig. 4

schematically an in-ear hearing aid with attached in a known manner cerumen protective cap;

Fig. 5

in a representation analogous to FIG. 4, an in-ear hearing aid integrally manufactured with a cerumen protective cap;

Fig. 6

an in-ear hearing aid with a ventilation groove incorporated in a known manner;

FIGS. 7 (a) to (f)

perspective cutouts of earmold shell surfaces with novel ventilation grooves;

Fig. 8

Based on a schematic section of an earmold surface, a ventilation groove with along its longitudinal extent varying cross-section or varying cross-sectional shape;

Fig. 9

schematically an in-ear earmold with extended ventilation groove;

Fig. 10

in illustration analogous to Figure 9, an in-ear earmold with several ventilation grooves.

Fig. 11 (a) to (e)

Cutouts of earmold shells with integrated ventilation channels of various cross-sectional shapes and dimensions;

Fig. 12

in a representation analogous to that of FIG. 8, a ventilation channel in an otoplastic shell with a varying cross-sectional shape or varying cross-sectional area along its longitudinal extent;

Fig. 13

in analogy to the illustration of Figure 9, schematically an in-ear earmold with incorporated, extended ventilation duct.

Fig. 14

in illustration analogous to FIG. 10, an in-ear earmold with a plurality of ventilation channels;

Fig. 15

schematically a Länggsschnittdarstellung an in-ear earmold with ribbed inner surface;

Fig. 16

a section of the earmold according to FIG. 15 in cross section, wherein the ribs have different cross-sectional areas;

Fig. 17

in perspective, the detail of an ear mold shell with inner ribbing according to FIG. 15 or 16, wherein the ribs along their longitudinal extent have different cross-sectional shapes and dimensions;

Fig. 18

in representation analogous to FIG. 15, an in-ear otoplastic with external ribbing;

Fig. 19

schematically a section of a ribbed in accordance with Figure 18 Otoplastikschale with ribs of different cross-sectional areas.

Fig. 20

schematically a cross section through an ear mold with external ribbing, possibly inner ribbing, and at least partially filling material-filled interior;

Fig. 21

schematically a longitudinal section of a cutout Otoplastikschale with flexible and stauchflexibler game;

Fig. 22

schematically in longitudinal section, an in-ear earmold with receiving space for an electronic module;

Fig. 23

the earmold of Figure 22 in its slipping over an electronic module.

Fig. 24

perspective and schematic, an in-ear earmold, in particular an in-ear hearing aid, with two-part, separable and assemblable Otoplastikschale;

Fig. 25

detail and schematic, the inventive integration of acoustic conductors and matching elements to an acoustic / electrical or electrical / acoustic transducer in an earmold;

Fig. 26

in representation analogous to that of Fig. 25, the inventive arrangement of two or several acoustic conductors in the shell of a Otoplastikschale, and

Fig. 27

based on a simplified signal flow / function block diagram, a novel procedure or a novel arrangement for its execution, in which or the dynamics of the application area of an ear mold is taken into account for their shaping.

The embodiments of earmolds described following the manufacturing method are preferably all manufactured with this described manufacturing method.

definition

We understand an ear device to mean a device that is applied directly outside the pinna and / or on the pinna and / or in the ear canal. These include external ear hearing aids, in-the-ear hearing aids, headphones, noise protection and water protection inserts, etc.

The examples shown in Figures 1-24 are not within the claimed invention.

1. Manufacturing process

• http://ltk.hut.fi/∼koukka/RP/rptree.html   (1)
  oder auf
• Wohlers Report 2000, Rapid Prototyping & Tooling State of the industry   (2)

The production method, which is preferably used to manufacture the otoplastics described in detail below, is based on digitizing the shape of an individual application area for an intended otoplastic in three dimensions, then creating the otoplastic or its shell by an additive construction method. Additive construction methods are also known by the term "rapid prototyping". With regard to such additive processes already used in rapid prototyping, reference is made, for example, to:

• http://ltk.hut.fi/~koukka/RP/rptree.html (1)
  or on
• Wohlers Report 2000, Rapid Prototyping & Tooling State of the Industry (2)

• Lasersintern: Auf einem Pulverbett wird, beispielsweise mittels eines Rollers, Heissschmelzpulver in einer dünnen Schicht aufgetragen. Mittels eines Laserstrahls wird die Pulverschicht verfestigt, wobei der Laserstrahl u.a. entsprechend einer Schnittschicht der Otoplastik bzw. Otoplastikschale mittels der 3D-Forminformation des individuellen Applikationsbereiches angesteuert wird. Es entsteht in dem im übrigen losen Pulver eine verfestigte Schnittschicht der Otoplastik bzw. deren Schale. Diese wird aus der Pulververlegeebene abgesenkt und darüber eine neue Pulverschicht aufgebracht, diese wiederum einer Schnittschicht entsprechend laserverfestigt, etc.
• Laser- bzw. Stereolithographie: Eine erste Schnittschicht bzw. einer Otoplastik bzw. einer Otoplastikschale wird mittels UV-Laser an der Oberfläche flüssigen Fotopolymers verfestigt. Die verfestigte Schicht wird abgesenkt und wird wieder von Flüssigpolymer bedeckt. Mittels des erwähnten UV-Lasers wird, auf der bereits verfestigten Schicht, die zweite Schnittschicht der Otoplastik bzw. deren Schale verfestigt. Wiederum erfolgt die Laserpositionssteuerung u.a. mittels der 3D-Daten bzw. Information des individuellen, vorgängig erfassten Applikationsbereiches..
• Thermojetverfahren: Die Konturbildung entsprechend einer Schnittschicht der Otoplastik bzw. der Otoplastikschale wird ähnlich wie bei einem Tintenstrahldrucker durch Flüssigauftrag u.a. gemäss der digitalisierten 3D-Forminformation, insbesondere auch des individuellen Applikationsbereiches.vorgenommen. Danach wird die abgelegte Schnitt-"Zeichnung" verfestigt. Wiederum wird gemäss dem Prinzip der additiven Aufbauverfahren Schicht um Schicht zum Aufbau der Otoplastik bzw. deren Schale abgelegt.

From the group of these additive methods known today for rapid prototyping, laser sintering, laser or stereolithography or the thermojet method are particularly well suited to construct earmolds or their shells, and in particular the specific examples and embodiments described below. Therefore, only briefly summarizing specifications of these preferred additive construction methods:

• Laser sintering : On a powder bed, for example by means of a roller, hotmelt powder is applied in a thin layer. By means of a laser beam, the powder layer is solidified, wherein the laser beam is driven, inter alia, corresponding to a sectional layer of the earmold or earmold shell by means of the 3D shape information of the individual application area. It arises in the otherwise loose powder a solidified layer of the otoplastic or its shell. This is lowered from the powder laying plane and applied to it a new powder layer, this in turn laser-solidified according to a cut layer, etc.
• Laser or Stereolithography: A first cut layer or an earmold or a Otoplastikschale is solidified by means of UV laser on the surface of liquid photopolymer. The solidified layer is lowered and again covered by liquid polymer. By means of the mentioned UV laser, the second cut layer of the otoplastic or its shell is solidified on the already solidified layer. Again, the laser position control takes place, inter alia, by means of the 3D data or information of the individual, previously recorded application area.
• Thermojet method : The contouring according to a sectional layer of the earmold or the Otoplastikschale is similar to an inkjet printer by liquid application, inter alia, according to the digitized 3D shape information, in particular also the individual Applikationsbereiches.bestgenommen. Then the filed cut "drawing" is solidified. Again, according to the principle of the additive build-up process, layer by layer is laid down to build up the otoplastic or its shell.

• http://www.padtinc.com/srv_rpm_sls.html   (3)
• "Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) of Ceramics", Muskesh Agarwala et al., presented at the Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, Austin, TX, August 1999,   (4)
• http://www.caip.rutgers.edu/RP_Library/process.html   (5)
• http://www.biba.uni-bremen.de/groups/rp/lom.html bzw.
• http://www.biba.uni-bremen.de/groups/rp/rp_intro.html.   (6)
• Donald Klosterman et al., "Direct Fabrication of Polymer Composite Structures with Curved LOM", Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, University of Texas at Austin, August 1999,   (7)
• http://lff.me.utexas.edu/sls.html   (8)
• http://www.padtinc.com/srv_rpm_sla.html   (9)
• http://www.cs.hut.fi/~ado/rp/rp.html   (10)

Reference may be made to the following further publications with regard to additive synthesis processes and the above-mentioned preferred ones:

• http://www.padtinc.com/srv_rpm_sls.html (3)
• "Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) of Ceramics", Muskesh Agarwala et al., Presented at the Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, Austin, TX, August 1999, (4)
• http://www.caip.rutgers.edu/RP_Library/process.html (5)
• http://www.biba.uni-bremen.de/groups/rp/lom.html
• http://www.biba.uni-bremen.de/groups/rp/rp_intro.html. (6)
• Donald Klosterman et al., "Direct Fabrication of Polymer Composite Structures with Curved LOM", Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium, University of Texas at Austin, August 1999, (7)
• http://lff.me.utexas.edu/sls.html (8)
• http://www.padtinc.com/srv_rpm_sla.html (9)
• http://www.cs.hut.fi/~ado/rp/rp.html (10)

Basically, therefore, a thin layer of material is deposited on a surface in additive construction process, be it laser sintering or stereolithography over the entire surface, be it as in Thermojetverfahren already in the contour of a section of the earpiece under construction or its shell. Then, the desired sectional shape is stabilized or solidified.

If a layer has solidified, a new layer is laid over it as described and this in turn solidified and connected to the underlying, already finished layer. Thus, the earmold or its shell is created layer by layer by additive layer-by-layer application.

For industrial production, preferably not only the cut layer for an individual otoplastic or its shell is deposited or solidified, but at the same time several individual ones. In laser sintering solidifies e.g. a laser, usually mirror-controlled, one behind the other the cut layers of several earmolds or their shells before all solidified cut layers are lowered together. Subsequently, after depositing a new powder layer over all already solidified and lowered cut layers, the formation of the several further cut layers takes place again. Despite this parallel production, the respective earmolds or their shells are digitally controlled and manufactured individually.

In this case, either a single laser beam is used to solidify the plurality of slice layers and / or more than one jet is operated and driven in parallel.

An alternative to this procedure is to solidify a slice with a laser, while at the same time the powder layer is deposited for the formation of another earmold or earmold. Thereafter, the same laser is solidified the prepared powder layer, corresponding to the cut layer for the further plastic, while the previously solidified layer is lowered and there a new powder layer is deposited. The laser then works intermittently between two or more earmolds or earmolds that are under construction, wherein the laser insert dead time resulting from the powder deposition during the formation of one of the shells for the earmold Solidification of a cut layer of another earmold under construction is exploited.

In Fig. 1 is shown schematically how, in one embodiment, by means of laser sintering or laser or stereolithography more earmolds or their shells are manufactured industrially in a parallel process. Above the material bed 1 for powder or liquid medium, the laser with control unit 5 and beam 3 is mounted. In position 1, it solidifies the layer S _{1 of} a first otoplastic or its shell, driven by the first individual data set D ₁ . Thereafter, it is moved to a displacement device 7 in a second position, where he creates the layer S ₂ according to a further individual contour with the individual record D ₂ . Of course, several of the lasers can be moved as a unit and in each case more than one individual earmold layer can be created simultaneously. Only when the intended lasers 5 have produced the respective individual layers in all intended positions is the powder feed shown generally at 9 in the case of laser sintering deposited a new powder layer, while (not shown) in laser or stereolithography the solidified layers S be lowered in the fluid bed.

According to FIG. 2, at one or more liquid or powder beds 1; solidified with several simultaneously individually controlled lasers 5, layers of individual earmolds and their shells. Again, with the powder dispensing unit 9 after completion of this solidification phase and after stopping The laser deposited a new layer of powder, while in the case of laser or stereolithography, the newly solidified layers or already solidified structures are lowered in the fluid bed.

According to FIG. 3 solidifies laser 5 on a powder or liquid bed 1a, the layer S ₁ in order then switch over to the bed 1b (dashed lines) to which during the solidification phase at the bed 1a, the powder application device 9b S ablates _1- powder over a previously solidified layer, or, in laser or stereolithography, the layer S _{1- is} lowered. Only when the laser 5 becomes active at the bed 1b is carried out with the powder dispenser 9a depositing a renewed layer of powder over the just solidified layer S ₁ at the bed 1a, or the layer S ₁ is done lowering in the fluid bed 1a.

When using the thermojet method and for increasing the productivity analogously, cut layers of more than one otoplastic or its shells are deposited at the same time, practically in one drawing train through an application head or, in parallel, through several.

By the illustrated method, it is possible to realize highly complex shapes of earmolds or their shells, both in terms of their outer shaping with individual adaptation to the application area as well as what, in a shell, its internal shaping. Overhangs, inlets and outlets can be easily realized.

In addition, materials for additive buildup methods are known which result in a rubber-elastic and yet dimensionally stable shell can be formed, which, if desired, locally different up to extremely thin-walled and still tear resistant can be realized.

In a presently preferred embodiment, the digitization of the individual application area, in particular the application area for a hearing aid, in particular in-ear hearing aid, at a specialized institution, in the last-mentioned case the audiologist, made. The individual form recorded there, as digital 3D information, is transmitted, in particular in connection with hearing aids, to a production center, be it by sending a data carrier, be it through internet connection etc. In the production center, in particular using the above-mentioned methods Otoplasty or its shell, in the case under consideration so the in-ear hearing aid shell, individually shaped. Preferably, the finished assembly of the hearing aid with the functional assemblies is made there as well.

Due to the fact that, as mentioned, the thermoplastic materials used in general lead to a relatively elastic, conforming outer shape, the shape of pressure points in otoplastics and their shells is much less critical than was previously the case, which in particular for in-ear earmoulds is of crucial importance. Thus, in-ear earmolds, such as hearing protectors, headphones, water protection devices, but especially for in-the-ear hearing aids, similar rubber-elastic plug can be used, and it Its surface fits optimally to the application area, the auditory canal. The incorporation of one or more ventilation channels in the in-ear earmold is readily possible to ensure unimpaired ventilation to the eardrum in the resulting, possibly relatively tight fit of the earmold in the ear canal. In the process, the interior of the plastic can also be optimized and optimally utilized with the individual 3D data of the application area during production, and also individually with regard to the individual aggregate constellation to be accommodated, as in the case of a hearing device.

Particularly in the case of earmolds in the form of hearing aids, central storage and management of individual data, both with regard to the individual application area as well as the individual functional parts and their settings, can be performed by the central production of their shells. If, for whatever reason, a shell needs to be replaced, it can easily be re-fabricated by retrieving the individual data sets without the need for laborious readjustment, as before.

Due to the fact that the methods described for the production of earmolds, but only for prototyping, are known and described in the literature, it is not necessary at this point to reproduce all the technical details relating to these methods.

In any case, it surprisingly results from the adoption of these previously known from the prototype construction technologies for the industrial, commercially viable production of earmolds quite significant advantages, and indeed for reasons that, in itself, are not relevant in prototyping, such as elasticity of the usable thermoplastic materials, the ability to build individually very thin-walled etc.

In summary, it is possible by using the aforementioned additive construction method for the production of earmolds and their shells to integrate various functional elements that constructive. Already during the planning of the earmold be prepared on the computer and generated with the structure of the earmold or its shell. Typically, such functional elements have been fitted or attached to them until after the completion of the earmold or its shell, which is recognizable by material interfaces or material inhomogeneity at the joints.

For the earmolds mentioned, in particular with electronic fittings, such as for hearing aids, in particular for in-ear hearing aids, are such elements that can be installed directly into the Otoplastikschale with the proposed technique, for example: recordings and brackets for components, Cerumen- Protection systems, ventilation ducts for in-ear earmoulds, support elements that hold the latter in the ear canal for in-ear earmolds, such as so-called claws (English channel locks).

FIG. 4 shows, for example and schematically, an in-ear earmold 11, for example an in-the-ear hearing device, in which the acoustic output 13 is protected to the eardrum by means of a cerumen protective cap 15. This protective cap 15 is applied until now in the production as a separate part on the shell 16 of the earmold 11 and fixed for example by gluing or welding. As shown in the same illustration in FIG. 5, the cerumen protective cap 15a is integrated directly with the shell 16a of the otherwise identical in-ear otoplastic 11a by using the aforementioned additive construction method. According to FIG. 4, there are no such interfaces as shown in FIG. 4, where the material of the shell 16a merges homogeneously into that of the cerumen protective cap 15a ,

This is only an example of how known cerumen protection systems and other functional elements can be integrally incorporated by use of the aforementioned manufacturing process.

Some specific new earmoulds are presented below:

2. Inner Ear Otoplastics with Venting

• Bezüglich akustischem Verhalten: Die heute bekannten Belüftungsrinnen sind kaum an die jeweiligen akustischen Erfordernisse angepasst. So können sie kaum, bei aktiven Otoplastiken, wie z.B. bei Im-Ohr-Hörgeräten, dazu beitragen, die Rückkopplungsproblematik von elektromechanischem Ausgangswandler zu akustisch/elektrischem Eingangswandler wirksam lösen zu helfen. Auch bei passiven Im-Ohr-Otoplastiken, wie Gehörschutz-Einrichtungen, vermögen sie nicht, das erwünschte Schutzverhalten zu unterstützen und gleichzeitig die erwünschten Belüftungseigenschaften beizubehalten.
• Cerumenempfindlichkeit: Die heute eingesetzten Belüftungsrinnen in der Aussflächen von Im-Ohr-Otoplastiken sind äusserst Cerumenbildungs-empfindlich. Diese vermag, je nach deren Intensität, rasch die vorgesehene Belüftungsrinnen bezüglich ihrer Belüftungseigenschaften zu beeinträchtigen, wenn nicht gar vollständig zu verstopfen.

It is known to provide a ventilation channel on the outside for in-ear earmolds, in particular for Im-Oh hearing aids, as shown schematically in FIG. Such ventilation channels as used today are by no means optimized under various aspects:

• Concerning acoustic behavior: The ventilation channels known today are hardly connected to the respective acoustic ones Requirements adapted. Thus, with active earmolds, such as for in-the-ear hearing aids, for example, they can hardly help to effectively solve the feedback problem from electromechanical output transducers to acoustic / electrical input transducers. Even with passive in-ear earmolds, such as hearing protection devices, they are not able to support the desired protective behavior while maintaining the desired ventilation characteristics.
• Cerumen sensitivity: The ventilation channels used today in the outer surfaces of in-ear earmoulds are extremely susceptible to cerumen formation. Depending on its intensity, this can rapidly impair, if not completely block, the ventilation channels intended for their ventilation properties.

There are below for in-ear earmolds, this particular for in-ear hearing aids or hearing protectors, but also for earmolds that protrude only partially into the ear canal, such as headphones, ventilation arrangements proposed that at least partially remedy the above-mentioned disadvantages of known provisions.

• nutenähnlich gegen die Gehörgangwandung mindestens zum Teil offen sind,
• die gegen die Wandung des Gehörganges hin vollständig geschlossen sind.

For this purpose, a distinction is made below ventilation systems that

• are at least partially open to the wall of the auditory canal,
• which are completely closed against the wall of the ear canal.

2a) Ventilation systems open against the wall of the ear canal

FIGS. 7 (a) to (f) show, by way of perspective, schematic representations of cutouts of the outer wall 18 of in-ear earmolds resting against the auditory canal, novel ventilation slot profiles. According to FIG. 7 (a), the profile of the ventilation groove 20a is rectangular or square in shape with predetermined, precisely observed dimensioning ratios. According to FIG. 7 (b), the profile of the ventilation groove 20b is circular or elliptical sector-shaped, again with exactly predetermined cross-sectional boundary curve 21b. By exact specification and realization of the cross-sectional shape of the ventilation slots 20 provided, a certain predictability and influence on the acoustic transmission conditions along this groove can already be realized when abutting the inner wall of the auditory canal. Of course, the acoustic behavior is also dependent on the length with which the groove 20 extends along the earmold outer wall 18.

FIGS. 7 (c) to (f) show further ventilation groove profiles, which are additionally cerumen-protected. The profile of the groove 20c according to FIG. 7 (c) is T-shaped.

With regard to the wide groove cross-sectional area at 27c, the projecting parts 23c and the constriction 25c resulting therefrom already exert a considerable cerumen protection effect against the wall of the auditory canal. Even though cerumen in the constriction 25c penetrates and hardens there, this results in no significant constriction or even blockage of the ventilation groove, which now becomes a closed ventilation channel. In FIGS. 7 (d) to 7 (f), following the illustrated principle of FIG. 7 (c), the cross-sectional shape of the wide groove portion 27d to 27f is formed differently, as shown in FIG. 7 (d). according to the sector of an ellipse, according to FIG. 7 (e) triangular, according to FIG. 7 (f) circular or elliptical.

By deliberately designing the groove cross-sectional area, as shown only by way of example with reference to FIGS. 7 (a) to 7 (f), it is possible to greatly improve both the acoustic properties and the cerumen protection effect compared with conventional, more or less randomly profiled ventilation grooves Make an impact. In the process, the profiles are mathematically modeled in advance, taking into account the mentioned cerumen protection effect and the acoustic effect, and integrated exactly into the manufactured earmoulds. For this purpose, the above-described additive synthesis methods are particularly suitable. In order to further optimize the acoustic effect of the ventilation groove, a wide variety of acoustic impedances can be realized along the novel ventilation grooves, resulting, for example, in FIG. 8 in ventilation grooves 29, which progressively define different profiles in their longitudinal direction, as shown in FIG 8 are shown assembled from profiles according to FIG.

Similar to the design of passive electrical networks, this allows the acoustic transmission behavior of the groove adjacent to the auditory canal to be mathematically modeled and checked, then integrated into the in-ear otoplastic or its shell.

Specifically, cerumen-protected portions may be provided at respective exposed portions as shown at A in FIG.

Furthermore, it may well be desirable, especially with a view to optimizing the acoustic conditions, to design the ventilation slots provided for longer than is fundamentally the case with the longitudinal extent of a considered in-ear otoplastic. As shown in Fig. 9, this is achieved in that such grooves 31 with training, as shown for example with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, are guided in predetermined curves along the surface of the earmold, for example as shown in Fig. 9 , practically as the otoplastic thread-like grooves. Further optimization flexibility is achieved in that not only a vent groove, but several are guided on the surface of the ear mold, as shown schematically in Fig. 10. The high flexibility of the groove design means that depending on the application area in the auditory canal specifically differently dimensioned, with respect to cerumen protection and acoustic transmission ratios respectively optimized ventilation grooves along the earmold surface can be realized.

2b) Ventilation systems with fully integrated channels

This training variant of the novel ventilation systems is based on at least partially completely integrated into the earmold, closed against the ear canal ventilation ducts. This system is then explained based on his training on an earmold. It should be emphasized, however, that if no further units are to be integrated on the earmold under consideration and it is designed as a solid plastic, the following examples and embodiments will of course also refer to a channel guide arbitrarily through the aforementioned solid plastic.

In FIG. 11, analogous to FIG. 7, different cross-sectional shapes and area ratios of the proposed ventilation channels 33a to 33e are shown. As shown in Fig. 11 (a), the ventilation passage 33a incorporated in the otoplastic shell 35a has a rectangular or square cross-sectional shape. In the example of Fig. 11 (b), it has, 35b, a circular sector or elliptical sector-shaped channel cross-sectional shape. In the example according to FIG. 11 (c), the intended ventilation channel 33c has a circular or elliptical cross-sectional shape, while in the example variant according to FIG. 11 (d) it has a triangular cross-sectional shape.

In the example according to FIG. 11 (e), the earmold shell has a complex inner shaping, for example a support section 37 integrated therewith. For optimum space utilization, the ventilation channel 35e provided here is designed with a cross-sectional shape which also uses complex shapes of the earmold shell. Accordingly, extends its cross-sectional shape partially complicates in the attached to the shell 35e mounting bar 37 inside.

Looking back on the example variant according to section 2a), it should be mentioned that such complex, optimally available cross-sectional shapes that utilize the available space are also provided on ventilation grooves that are open against the auditory canal. can be realized, as well, vice versa, channel guides, as shown for open grooves in Figs. 9 and 10, on closed ventilation channels.

Finally, FIG. 12 shows an example variant of a fully integrated ventilation channel 39, which has different cross-sectional shapes and / or cross-sectional dimensions along its longitudinal extent, as shown for example in the ear mold shell 41, whereby the acoustic transmission behavior can be optimized in the sense of realizing different acoustic impedance elements , In this connection, and referring to the following section ..., it can also be pointed out that because of the possibility of realizing complex acoustic impedance relationships, ventilation ducts in particular of the closed construction shown in this section, at least in sections at the same time as acoustic conductor sections active electromechanical side Transducer, as the output side of microphones, for example, in in-ear hearing aids, can be exploited.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show, in analogy to FIGS. 9 and 10, how, on the one hand, the integrated ventilation channels explained in this section are extended by the corresponding web guide on the respective otoplastic 43 or on the other hand as two and more of the mentioned channels, possibly with different and / or varying channel cross-sections, in analogy to FIG. 12, are integrated on the earmold.

The possibilities presented in sections 2a) and 2b), which can also be combined in any way, open up to the person skilled in the art a myriad of design variants of the novel ventilation systems and, in particular, a large degree of freedom, owing to the various parameters which can be dimensioned for themselves, optimum cerumen protection for the respective individual earmold and to create optimal acoustic transmission conditions. In all example variants, the specific individual configuration of the system is preferably calculated or mathematically modeled, taking into account the mentioned needs. Then the individual earmould is realized. Again, this is particularly suitable for the above-explained manufacturing method with additive construction principle, as known from the prototype, which is then controlled with the optimized model result.

3. Dimensional stability-optimized earmolds

This section is about introducing new earmolds that are optimally adapted to the dynamics of the application areas. It is known, for example, that conventional in-ear earmolds are unable to take into account the relatively large auditory canal dynamics, eg when chewing, because of their essentially uniform shape stability. Likewise, for example, the acoustic conductors between outer ear hearing aids and auditory canal dynamics of the Application area not free to follow. In in-ear earmoulds the same problem occurs, partially attenuated, even in hearing protection devices, headphones, water protection inserts, etc. on. In particular, their intrinsic function, for example protective effect, is impaired in part if the mentioned application range dynamics are increasingly taken into account. By way of example, reference may be made to known hearing protection devices made of elastically deformable plastics which, to a large extent, account for the aforementioned application range dynamics, but at the expense of their acoustic transmission behavior.

FIG. 15 schematically shows a longitudinal sectional view of an in-ear otoplastic, in FIG. 16 a schematic cross-sectional representation of a section of this otoplastic. The earmold - e.g. for receiving electronic components - has a shell 45 which is stocking-like, thin-walled made of elastic material. The dimensional stability of the shell skin, which is smooth on the outside in the example shown, is ensured, where desired, by ribs 47 integrally attached internally to the shell, which ribs are made of the same material with respect to the shell skin.

Depending on the required dynamics of the in-ear earmold on the one hand, to take into account, for example, the ear canal and the requirements for the support and the protection of internals, as in an in-ear hearing, the course of the wall thickness of shell skin 45, the density and shape of the ribs 47 previously calculated and then the earmold constructed according to the calculated data. Again, this is the above-mentioned manufacturing process using additive construction process exceptionally well. Of course, the above-described embodiment of the in-ear earmold can certainly be combined with a ventilation system, as explained with reference to FIGS. 7 to 14. In particular, the ribs provided for influencing the dimensional stability or bendability in certain regions of the otoplastic can also be formed with different cross-sectional profile, if necessary also progressing in their longitudinal extent progressively from one cross-section to the other.

In the form of a perspective illustration, the formation of the outer skin 45 with ribs 47 having varying cross-sectional areas along its longitudinal extent is shown purely schematically in FIG. 17, for example.

Instead of or in addition to the targeted wall reinforcement and targeted interpretation of the bending or torsional behavior, short of the shape behavior, the in-ear otoplastic, as mentioned, in addition to the Innenrippenbemusterung, as shown in Figs. 17 and 18, also a Außenrippenbemusterung be provided. According to FIGS. 18 and 19, a pattern of ribs 51 is processed on the outer surface of the otoplastic 49, possibly with regions of different density, orientation and profile shape.

According to FIG. 19, this can be used for the hollow earmolds considered here, but also for earmolds with no cavity, that is to say, for example no electronic components, eg for hearing protection devices or water protection devices. Such earmold is shown schematically in a cross-sectional view in FIG. In this case, the interior 53 is made, for example, from a highly compressible absorption material and surrounded by a shaping skin shell 55 with the rib pattern 57. Here, "skin" 55 and the rib pattern 57 are produced integrally together. For this purpose, in turn, the manufacturing method explained above with the aid of additive construction method is suitable. How far in the near future these additive construction processes can be realized by changing the processed materials on a workpiece remains to be seen. If this becomes possible, then the web is free, for example, based on the example of FIG. 20 and the filler 53 simultaneously with the shell skin 55 and the ribs 57 in each build-up layers to build sequentially.

Looking back in particular to FIGS. 18 and 19, it can be seen that ventilation channels or clearances can be formed at the same time with the aid of the outer rib patterns, as shown purely schematically and for example by the path P.

Returning again to FIG. 20, it is quite possible, if necessary and as shown in Fig. 20 by dashed lines at 57 _i is shown, even when the in-ear ear device is filled with material, thus not for receiving further units such as of Elektronikbaueinheiten , it is intended to provide on the shell skin 55 an inner rib pattern 57 _i . As further shown in dashed lines at 59 in FIG is shown, earmolds can be created, which probably leave a cavity for male aggregates such as electronic components, but in which the space between such a cavity 59, designed specifically for the necessary volumes and shapes of additional units to be installed and the shell skin 55, for example a resilient or sound insulating material is filled or components to be installed with such a material to the shell skin 55 are poured out.

The shell skin 55 or 45, according to Figures 15, 16 and 17, may well be made of electrically conductive material, whereby at the same time an electrical shielding effect for internal electronic components is created. This also applies, if necessary, to the filling 53 according to FIG. 20.

On the basis of FIGS. 15 to 20, an otoplastic was illustrated using the example of an in-ear otoplastic, the shell of which is dimensionally stabilized with internal and / or external ribs, which results in an extraordinarily lightweight and selectively shapable construction. Of course, if necessary, this design can also be used for outer ear earmolds.

FIG. 21 shows a further example variant of an in-ear otoplastic which is specifically bendable or compressible in one region. For this purpose, the shell 61 of an otoplastic, in particular the shell of an in-ear hearing device, has a corrugated or corrugated hose formation 63 in one or more predefined areas, to which it is bent, in accordance with the respective requirements. is compressible. Although FIG. 21 illustrates this procedure on the basis of the shell of an in-ear otoplastic, this procedure can be implemented completely and, if necessary, also for an outer ear earmold. Again, the manufacturing method explained in the introduction is preferably used for this purpose.

Also in this example example, as explained with reference to FIG. 20, the inner volume of the earmold can be filled with the requisite filling material or internals integrated therein can be embedded in such filling material, resulting in a higher stability of the device and improved acoustic conditions.

4. Modular housing / internals

Particularly in the case of in-ear hearing aids, there is the problem that the application area, i. the ear canal, its shape changes. Obviously this is the case with adolescent humans. But even in adults, the ear canal changes partially strong, usually in a narrowing sense (for example, so-called diver's ear).

With in-the-ear hearing aids, the conventional problem is that even if the hearing aid internals could be maintained over long periods of life, for example, only the transmission behavior of the hearing aid would have to be readjusted according to the respective hearing, still new hearing aids are designed again and again only because of the fact that the former no longer satisfactorily fit into the ear canal.

The measures explained with reference to section 3 already provide the possibility of improving this, due to the fact that an automatic adaptation of the shape of the otoplastic to respectively changing application areas is thus made possible. In this section further measures, in particular on the basis of in-ear earmoulds, will be explained in this regard. It should be noted, however, that even with external ear earmolds, such as external ear hearing aids, this opens up the possibility of changing the "housing", and not only if this becomes necessary from the comfort of use, but also, as desired, For example, to change the aesthetic appearance of such external ear hearing aids.

In Fig. 22, an in-ear otoplasty 65 is shown schematically and in longitudinal section, to which the formation of the inner space 67 substantially corresponds to the shape of the in Fig. 23 schematically shown, male electronic module 69. The earmold 65 is made of rubber-elastic material and can, as shown in Fig. 23, be slipped over the electronic module 69. The shaping of the inner space 67 is such that the or possibly the plurality of modules to be accommodated are positively positioned and held directly by the otoplastic 65. Because of this approach, it is easily possible to provide one and the same electronic module 69 with different earmolds 65, so as to take into account, for example, in a growing child of the changing auditory canal training. The earmold is practically an easily replaceable disposable accessory for the in-ear hearing aid. Not only to changing conditions in the application area, namely the Ear canal to take account of, but also simply for reasons of contamination, the otoplasty 65 can be easily changed. This concept can even be exploited, if necessary - for example in auditory canal inflammation - to make medical applications, for example by applying drugs to the

Otoplastik outer surface or at least to use sterilized earmolds at regular intervals.

The concept illustrated with reference to FIGS. 22 and 23 can, of course, be combined with the concepts set out in Sections 2 and 3, and the earmold 65 is preferably produced according to the manufacturing method explained in Section 1), which makes the formation of the most complex internal shapes possible vibration-free recording of the module 69 allows.

As can be seen from FIGS. 22 and 23, the phase plate 1 otherwise provided in conventional in-the-ear hearing aids, for example, is built as part of the module holder, integrally with the otoplastic. The same applies to other mounts and recordings for electronic components of the hearing aid. If one realizes the layer-to-layer build-up method set forth in section 1), as in FIG. 22 dash-dotted lines and in the direction indicated by the arrow AB, then it would be readily possible for the otoplastic in the above-mentioned construction direction AB to be arranged according to requirements respective areas made of different materials. This also applies to the earmolds described in Sections 2) and 3) as well as to those explained in the following sections 5), 6) and 7). The example of FIG. 22, it is thus quite possible to produce the region 65 _a of rubber-elastic material, however, the output region 65 _b of dimensionally stable material.

FIG. 24 shows a further example of an otoplastic, again by way of example with reference to an in-the-ear hearing device, which enables simple, rapid replacement of the internal fittings. In principle, it is proposed in this case to design the earmold shell in a multi-part and assemblable manner on an in-ear earmold with internals, as shown in FIG. 24. By means of quick-acting closures, such as snap locks, Einklinkverschlüssen or even bayonet-like closures is made possible at the in-ear earmold housing parts 73a and 73b quickly separated from each other to remove the internals such as electronic modules and reinstall them in a new shell, if necessary with changed outer shaping or basically in a new shell, even if this is necessary, for example, for cleaning reasons, sterility reasons, etc. If it is provided to throw away the already used shell, it is readily possible to form the connections of the shell parts so that the shell can only be opened destructively, for example, by externally inaccessible locking members such as pawls are provided and cut the shell for their removal becomes.

Of course, this example can also be combined with the examples described hitherto and the embodiments to be described.

5. Integration of acoustic conductors in earmolds or their shells

In the case of outer ear as well as in-ear hearing aids, it is customary to couple acoustical / electrical transducers or electro-acoustic output transducers on the input side or output side via acoustic conductors assembled as independent parts, namely tube-like structures, to the environment of the hearing aid. or, in particular with input-side acoustic / electrical transducers, to place them with their receiving surface directly in the area of the surfaces of the hearing aid, possibly separated from the environment only by small cavities and protective measures.

In this case, in the design of such hearing aids, a relatively large bond, where in the hearing aid, the actual transducer and where the hearing aid, the actual coupling openings are provided to the environment. It would be highly desirable to have the greatest possible freedom of design with regard to the arrangement of coupling openings to the surroundings and arrangement of the mentioned transducers within the hearing device.

This is basically achieved in that the mentioned acoustic conductors - on the input side of acoustic / electrical transducers or on the output side of electrical / acoustic transducers - are integrated into the otoplastic or into the wall of earmold shells.

In Fig. 25 this is shown purely schematically. A converter module 75 has an acoustic input or output 77. The shell 79 of the earmold of an in-ear or an outer ear hearing aid or a headphone has, integrated into it, an acoustic conductor 81 on. It lies at least in sections and as shown in FIG. 25 within the wall of the earmold shell 79. By means of acoustic stub lines or line sections 83, the respective acoustic impedance of the acoustic conductor 81 is preferably adjusted. This concept, with a view to outer ear hearing aids, makes it possible to provide auditory input openings 85 along the hearing aid and where desired, to couple them to the intended acoustic / electrical transducers 91 via acoustic conductors 89 integrated in the otoplastic or its shell 87 essentially independent of where these transducers 91 are installed in the hearing aid. For example, in FIG. 26, it is only shown to centralize two transducers into one module and to connect their inputs to the desired receiving apertures 85 through the aforementioned guide of the acoustic conductors 89. From consideration of Figures 25 and 26 and the discussion in Section 2) regarding the novel ventilation systems, it will be appreciated that it is quite possible to use ventilation ducts as acoustic ducts as well, particularly when schematized as shown in Figure 25 by means of acoustic matching elements 83 the acoustic impedance conditions are designed specifically.

6. Marking of earmolds

In the manufacture of earmolds, especially in-ear earmolds, each is individually adapted for their respective wearer. Therefore, it would be highly desirable, any manufactured earmold, as mentioned In particular, to identify each in-ear earmold, especially every in-ear hearing aid. It is therefore proposed to provide in the ear or in their shell, by notches and / or by bulges an individual marking, which together with the. individual purchaser, eg manufacturer, product serial number, left-right application, etc. may contain. Such a marking is produced in a much preferred manner in the manufacture of the otoplastic with the removal method described under 1). This ensures that any confusion of the earmoulds is excluded from the production. This is particularly important in the subsequent, possibly automated assembly with other modules, such as the assembly of in-ear hearing aids.

Of course, this approach can be implemented in combination with one or more of the aspects described under sections 2) to 5).

7. Optimization of earmolds with respect to the dynamics of the application area

For the shaping of otoplastics for in-the-ear application, such as for in-the-ear hearing aids, it is customary today to take an impression of the ear canal, for example in silicone. If one now considers the relatively large dynamics of movement of the auditory canal, for example, during the chewing process, it can be seen that the support of the in-ear otoplastic mold to a footprint corresponding impression hardly leads to a result that is able to fully satisfy in use. As shown in FIG. 27 with reference to a simplified Function block / signal flow diagram is shown, taken from the dynamic application area, represented by the block 93, at several of the actual dynamics take place corresponding positions or, film-like, the dynamics of the application area registered itself: The resulting data sets are stored in a memory unit 95th stored. Even with conventional procedure by impression taking, this can certainly be realized by taking from the application area in two or more positions corresponding to the practical dynamics impressions.

Subsequently, these impressions are scanned and the respective digital data records are stored in the memory unit 95. As a further possibility, for example, the dynamics of the application area can be detected by X-ray images.

Thus, depending on the accuracy to be achieved, a plurality of "images" or even practically a "film" of the movement pattern is registered by the application area of interest. The data registered in the memory unit 95 are then supplied to a computing unit 97. On the output side, the arithmetic unit 97 controls the manufacturing process 99 for the earmold. If, for example, and as is customary to date, in-ear earmolds are manufactured with a relatively hard shell, the arithmetic unit 97 calculates the dynamic data stored on the memory unit 95 and, as shown schematically at K, further manufacturing parameters, the best fit for the earmold, so that optimal comfort in everyday life is achieved, while preserving their functionality. Will the too produced ear mold according to the principle set forth in section 3), it is determined on the arithmetic unit 97, which Otoplastikbereiche are how to make their flexibility, bendability, compressibility etc. On the output side controls, as mentioned, the computing unit 97, the manufacturing process 99, preferably thereby the manufacturing process as outlined in section 1) as a preferred process.

Claims (6)

1. Hearing device for the external ear with an otoplasty with an electric/acoustic transducer with an acoustic output, said output being connected via an acoustic lead to a coupling opening on the outer face of the otoplasty, at least part of the outer face of the otoplasty being formed by a one-piece otoplasty shell defining an inner space, characterized in that the acoustic lead runs, as a channel, inside and along the one-piece otoplasty shell and is bounded by the material of the otoplasty shell.
2. Hearing device for the external ear according to Claim 1, characterized in that the channel is designed with a varying cross-sectional area and/or cross-sectional shape along its length.
3. Hearing device for the external ear according to either of Claims 1 and 2, characterized in that an adaption stub line for adapting the acoustic transmission conditions between coupling opening and output opens into the channel, which line is likewise bounded by the material of the otoplasty shell.
4. Hearing device for the external ear according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, at least along a substantial portion of its length, the channel extends substantially parallel to the outer face of the otoplasty.
5. Hearing device for the external ear according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that at least two of the channels in terms of signal propagation are routed in parallel, at least in some areas.
6. Hearing device for the external ear according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the acoustic lead extends to the audio channel.

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