부산대학교 도서관

The goal of this work is to develop a completely implantable ossicular vibration sensor utilizing microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology in combination with integrated-circuit approaches as part of a larger effort to enhance auditory prostheses by eliminating their external components. To develop a completely implantable device, sensors are required to replace the external microphones used in traditional systems (e.g., cochlear implants and hearing aids). Present-day implantable sensors do not meet the stringent requirements for acoustic performance or size to fit in the middle ear; however, in our lab, a dual-resonance design has been developed that holds the potential to achieve these results. In this paper, we show the analytical model used to predict and understand the behavior of these sensors. We discuss preliminary cadaveric temporal bone results, show how a fabricated MEMS proof-of-concept prototype mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) along with the amplifying electronics and covered with a high-resolution 3D printed lid results in a packaged size small enough to fit in the middle ear, and outline future testing protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]