Sonitus Medical, Inc. Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20160134980 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING AUDIO SIGNALS - Various methods and apparatus for processing audio signals are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Received audio signals may be processed to cancel acoustic echo such that undesired sounds received by one or more intra-buccal and/or extra-buccal microphones are eliminated or mitigated. Additionally, a multiband actuation system may be used where two or more transducers each deliver sounds within certain frequencies. Also, the assembly may also utilize the sensation of directionality via the conducted vibrations to emulate directional perception of audio signals received by the user. Another feature may include the ability to vibrationally conduct ancillary audio signals to the user along with primary audio signals. | 05-12-2016 |
20150358723 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a tooth or teeth are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 12-10-2015 |
20140349597 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE TWO-WAY COMMUNICATIONS - An electronic and transducer device can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a two-way communication assembly. In another embodiment, the device provides an electronic and transducer device that can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a medical tag containing patient identifiable information. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device fabricated from a thermal forming process utilizing a replicate model of a dental structure obtained by conventional dental impression methods. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 11-27-2014 |
20140321674 | HEADSET SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A wireless headset is adapted to communicate with a sound source such as a music player or a cell phone or a suitable audio or sound communicated through a one-way or two-way communication device. The headset includes a mouth wearable communicator, and a linking unit coupled to the mouth wearable communicator, the linking unit adapted to communicate with the sound source. | 10-30-2014 |
20140321667 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING AUDIO SIGNALS - Various methods and apparatus for processing audio signals are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Received audio signals may be processed to cancel acoustic echo such that undesired sounds received by one or more intra-buccal and/or extra-buccal microphones are eliminated or mitigated. Additionally, a multiband actuation system may be used where two or more transducers each deliver sounds within certain frequencies. Also, the assembly may also utilize the sensation of directionality via the conducted vibrations to emulate directional perception of audio signals received by the user. Another feature may include the ability to vibrationally conduct ancillary audio signals to the user along with primary audio signals. | 10-30-2014 |
20140296618 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental patch are disclosed herein. The patch assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded intra-orally on a tooth or oral tissue. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 10-02-2014 |
20140275733 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental implant are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon the implant to form a hearing assembly. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other hone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 09-18-2014 |
20140270268 | HEADSET SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A digital audio player device can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form an intraoral MP3 player. In another embodiment, the device provides an electronic and transducer device that can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a DAP. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device fabricated from a thermal forming process utilizing a replicate model of a dental structure obtained by conventional dental impression methods. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 09-18-2014 |
20140177880 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTRA-ORAL BASED COMMUNICATIONS - Systems and methods are disclosed for capturing sound for communication by mounting one or more intra-oral microphones to capture sound; and mounting a mouth wearable communicator in the oral cavity to communicate sound with a remote unit. | 06-26-2014 |
20140177879 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a tooth or teeth are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 06-26-2014 |
20140169592 | ACTUATOR SYSTEMS FOR ORAL-BASED APPLIANCES - Actuator systems for oral-based appliances utilizing transducers which are attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a dental or oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such oral appliances may be a custom-made device which receives incoming sounds and transmits the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element. The transducer element may utilize electromagnetic or piezoelectric transducer mechanisms and may be positioned directly along the dentition or along an oral appliance housing in various configurations. | 06-19-2014 |
20140081091 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE COMMUNICATION AND MONITORING OF USER STATUS - An electronic and transducer device can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a two-way communication assembly. The device contains a motion sensor to detect external forces imposed on the user such as an explosion, for example. The information is stored for medical treatment, among others. In another embodiment, the device provides an electronic and transducer device that can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a medical tag containing patient identifiable information. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device fabricated from a thermal forming process utilizing a replicate model of a dental structure obtained by conventional dental impression methods. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 03-20-2014 |
20130236043 | DENTAL BONE CONDUCTION HEARING APPLIANCE - An intra-oral hearing appliance includes an actuator to provide bone conduction sound transmission; a transceiver coupled to the actuator to cause the actuator to generate sound; and a first chamber containing the actuator and the transceiver, said first chamber adapted to be coupled to one or more teeth. | 09-12-2013 |
20130236035 | INTRAORAL APPLIANCE FOR SOUND TRANSMISSION VIA BONE CONDUCTION - An intra-oral appliance for transmitting sound via bone conduction and optimized for comfort, safety, speech intelligibility, eating and drinking and extended wear by the user including an actuator to provide hone conduction sound transmission:, a transceiver coupled to the actuator to cause the actuator to generate sound; and a first chamber containing, the actuator and the transceiver, said first chamber adapted to be coupled to one or more teeth of the user. | 09-12-2013 |
20130109932 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PULMONARY MONITORING AND TREATMENT | 05-02-2013 |
20130044903 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE COMMUNICATION, POSITIONING AND MONITORING OF USER STATUS - A communication apparatus includes a bone conduction communication apparatus with a housing having a shape which is conformable to at least a portion of at least one tooth of a user; a transceiver mounted in the housing; and a transducer disposed within or upon the housing and in vibratory communication with a surface of the at least one tooth to transmit sound through the at least one tooth. A positioning system is provided to transmit positional information to the transceiver to be delivered to the transducer: and a communication device links the transceiver with a second person. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 02-21-2013 |
20130034238 | HEADSET SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A wireless headset is adapted to communicate with a sound source such as a music player or a cell phone or a suitable audio or sound communicated through a one-way or two-way communication device. The headset includes a mouth wearable communicator; and a linking unit coupled to the mouth wearable communicator, the linking unit adapted to communicate with the sound source. | 02-07-2013 |
20130010987 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a tooth or teeth are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 01-10-2013 |
20130006043 | SYSTEMS FOR MANUFACTURING ORAL-BASED HEARING AID APPLIANCES - Systems for manufacturing oral-based hearing aid appliances utilizing various manufacturing methods and apparatus are described herein. The oral appliance may have an electronic and/or transducer assembly for receiving incoming sounds and transmitting processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or teeth. The oral appliance may be formed or fabricated via three-dimensional digital scanning systems or via impression molding to create a housing for the electronics and/or transducer assembly as well as to securely conform the appliance to the user's dentition. | 01-03-2013 |
20130003997 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTRA-ORAL BASED COMMUNICATIONS - Systems and methods are disclosed for capturing sound for communication by mounting one or more intra-oral microphones to capture sound; and mounting a mouth wearable communicator in the oral cavity to communicate sound with a remote unit. | 01-03-2013 |
20130003996 | ACTUATOR SYSTEMS FOR ORAL-BASED APPLIANCES - Actuator systems for oral-based appliances utilizing transducers which are attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a dental or oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such oral appliances may be a custom-made device which receives incoming sounds and transmits the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element. The transducer element may utilize electromagnetic or piezoelectric transducer mechanisms and may be positioned directly along the dentition or along an oral appliance housing in various configurations. | 01-03-2013 |
20120321113 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING AUDIO SIGNALS - Various methods and apparatus for processing audio signals are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Received audio signals may be processed to cancel acoustic echo such that undesired sounds received by one or more intra-buccal and/or extra-buccal microphones are eliminated or mitigated. Additionally, a multiband actuation system may be used where two or more transducers each deliver sounds within certain frequencies. Also, the assembly may also utilize the sensation of directionality via the conducted vibrations to emulate directional perception of audio signals received by the user. Another feature may include the ability to vibrationally conduct ancillary audio signals to the user along with primary audio signals. | 12-20-2012 |
20120321109 | HEADSET SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A digital audio player device can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form an intraoral MP3 player. In another embodiment, the device provide's an electronic and transducer device that can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a DAP. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device fabricated from a thermal forming process utilizing a replicate model of a dental structure obtained by conventional dental impression methods. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 12-20-2012 |
20120296154 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental implant are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon the implant to form a hearing assembly. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 11-22-2012 |
20120259158 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental patch are disclosed herein. The patch assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded intra-orally on a tooth or oral tissue. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 10-11-2012 |
20120243714 | MICROPHONE PLACEMENT FOR ORAL APPLICATIONS - Microphone placement for oral applications are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Received audio signals may be processed to cancel acoustic echo such that undesired sounds received by one or more intra-buccal and/or extra-buccal microphones are eliminated or mitigated. Multiple microphones may be positioned throughout the user's mouth to enhance reception of audio signals from outside sources as well as from the user's own voice. For instance, one or more microphones may be placed in contact with the inner surface of the user's cheeks to detect outside audio signals as well as in direct contact with the user's tooth or teeth to receive the user's voice through vibrational detection. | 09-27-2012 |
20120235632 | INTRA-ORAL CHARGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods are disclosed for charging an intra-oral apparatus includes an intra-oral appliance having an appliance charger coil defining a first portion of an electromagnetic loop; and a charger base having a base charger coil defining a second portion of the electromagnetic loop, wherein the appliance charger coil and the base charger coil in combination transfer energy for inductive charging. | 09-20-2012 |
20120195448 | Tinnitus masking systems - Tinnitus masking systems for treating tinnitus are described where a device is coupled to a surface of a bone or to a tooth or several teeth. Such a device may comprise an oral appliance having an electronic and/or transducer assembly for generating sounds via a vibrating transducer element. Generally, the transducer may generate one or more frequencies of sound via the actuatable transducer to transmit a modified audio signal via vibratory conductance to an inner ear of the patient to mask tinnitus during a peak of the audio signal and to allow the user to perceive the tinnitus during a trough of the audio signal. The audio signal is also modified to account for any hearing loss of the patient as well as a bone conductance profile measured from the patient. | 08-02-2012 |
20120195446 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE COMMUNICATION, POSITIONING AND MONITORING OF USER STATUS - A communication apparatus includes a bone conduction communication apparatus with a housing having a shape which is conformable to at least a portion of at least one tooth of a user; a transceiver mounted in the housing; and a transducer disposed within or upon the housing and in vibratory communication with a surface of the at least one tooth to transmit sound through the at least one tooth. A positioning system is provided to transmit positional information to the transceiver to be delivered to the transducer; and a communication device links the transceiver with a second person. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 08-02-2012 |
20120165597 | IMPLANTABLE PIEZOELECTRIC POLYMER FILM MICROPHONE - Implantable piezoelectric polymer film microphone apparatus and methods are described for use as an integral component of a hearing augmentation device system. The piezoelectric polymer film can be polyvinylidene fluoride (“PVDF”). Generally, a piezoelectric polymer film serves as the sensor that is well matched to tissue and which directly converts to an electrical signal by the piezoelectric effect vibration signals which are received through the tissue in which the piezoelectric polymer film microphone is implanted. | 06-28-2012 |
20120142270 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE COMMUNICATION AND MONITORING OF USER STATUS - An electronic and transducer device can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a two-way communication assembly. The device contains a motion sensor to detect external forces imposed on the user such as an explosion, for example. The information is stored for medical treatment, among others. In another embodiment, the device provides an electronic and transducer device that can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a medical tag containing patient identifiable information. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device fabricated from a thermal forming process utilizing a replicate model of a dental structure obtained by conventional dental impression methods. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 06-07-2012 |
20120116779 | STUTTERING TREATMENT METHODS AND APPARATUS - Stuttering treatment methods and apparatus which utilize removable oral-based appliances having actuators which are attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a dental or oral appliance are described. Such oral appliances may receive the user's voice and process the voice to introduce a time delay and/or a frequency shift. The altered audio feedback signal is then transmitted back to the user through a tooth, teeth, or other bone via a vibrating actuator element. The actuator element may utilize electromagnetic or piezoelectric actuator mechanisms and may be positioned directly along the dentition or along an oral appliance housing in various configurations. | 05-10-2012 |
20110319021 | INTRA-ORAL TISSUE CONDUCTION MICROPHONE - Intra-oral tissue conduction microphone apparatus and methods are described for internal, but non-surgically installed microphones located in the oral cavity. An intra-oral tissue conduction microphone may be attached, adhered or integrated with a removable dental appliance which is positioned against the inside surfaces of the cheek, palate or gingiva. The sensor serves as a component in a non-observable hearing, body sound monitoring or communications device that can operate in environments incompatible with most existing devices. Generally, a piezoelectric film serves as the sensor that is well matched to tissue and which directly converts to an electrical signal by the piezoelectric effect signals which are received through the oral mucosa, gingiva or palate. | 12-29-2011 |
20110280416 | DENTAL BONE CONDUCTION HEARING APPLIANCE - An intra-oral hearing appliance includes an actuator to provide bone conduction sound transmission; a transceiver coupled to the actuator to cause the actuator to generate sound; and a first chamber containing the actuator and the transceiver, said first chamber adapted to be coupled to one or more teeth. | 11-17-2011 |
20110245584 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental implant are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon the implant to form a hearing assembly. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 10-06-2011 |
20110116659 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING AUDIO SIGNALS - Various methods and apparatus for processing audio signals are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Received audio signals may be processed to cancel acoustic echo such that undesired sounds received by one or more intra-buccal and/or extra-buccal microphones are eliminated or mitigated. Additionally, a multiband actuation system may be used where two or more transducers each deliver sounds within certain frequencies. Also, the assembly may also utilize the sensation of directionality via the conducted vibrations to emulate directional perception of audio signals received by the user. Another feature may include the ability to vibrationally conduct ancillary audio signals to the user along with primary audio signals. | 05-19-2011 |
20110081031 | INTRAORAL APPLIANCE FOR SOUND TRANSMISSION VIA BONE CONDUCTION - An intra-oral appliance for transmitting sound via bone conduction and optimized for comfort, safety, speech intelligibility, eating and drinking and extended wear by the user including an actuator to provide bone conduction sound transmission; a transceiver coupled to the actuator to cause the actuator to generate sound; and a first chamber containing the actuator and the transceiver, said first chamber adapted to be coupled to one or more teeth of the user. | 04-07-2011 |
20110026740 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING AUDIO SIGNALS - Various methods and apparatus for processing audio signals are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Received audio signals may be processed to cancel acoustic echo such that undesired sounds received by one or more intra-buccal and/or extra-buccal microphones are eliminated or mitigated. Additionally, a multiband actuation system may be used where two or more transducers each deliver sounds within certain frequencies. Also, the assembly may also utilize the sensation of directionality via the conducted vibrations to emulate directional perception of audio signals received by the user. Another feature may include the ability to vibrationally conduct ancillary audio signals to the user along with primary audio signals. | 02-03-2011 |
20110007920 | INTRA-ORAL BRACKETS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - An intra-oral apparatus includes a bracket having a base to secure the bracket to a tooth, the bracket having an appliance attachment, and an electronic module having an attachment point to releasably secure the electronic module to the appliance attachment. | 01-13-2011 |
20110002492 | BONE CONDUCTION HEARING AID DEVICES AND METHODS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a tooth or teeth are disclosed herein. The assembly may include a bracket which is adhered or affixed onto the tooth or teeth and an electronics and/or transducer assembly which may be removably coupled to the bracket. The electronic and/or transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to the bracket for transmission into the underlying tooth or other bone structure. | 01-06-2011 |
20100322449 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR PROCESSING AUDIO SIGNALS - Various methods and apparatus for processing audio signals are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Received audio signals may be processed to cancel acoustic echo such that undesired sounds received by one or more intra-buccal and/or extra-buccal microphones are eliminated or mitigated. Additionally, a multiband actuation system may be used where two or more transducers each deliver sounds within certain frequencies. Also, the assembly may also utilize the sensation of directionality via the conducted vibrations to emulate directional perception of audio signals received by the user. Another feature may include the ability to vibrationally conduct ancillary audio signals to the user along with primary audio signals. | 12-23-2010 |
20100290647 | HEADSET SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A digital audio player device can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form an intraoral MP3 player. In another embodiment, the device provides an electronic and transducer device that can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a DAP. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device fabricated from a thermal forming process utilizing a replicate model of a dental structure obtained by conventional dental impression methods. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 11-18-2010 |
20100220883 | ACTUATOR SYSTEMS FOR ORAL-BASED APPLIANCES - Actuator systems for oral-based appliances utilizing transducers which are attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a dental or oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such oral appliances may be a custom-made device which receives incoming sounds and transmits the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element. The transducer element may utilize electromagnetic or piezoelectric transducer mechanisms and may be positioned directly along the dentition or along an oral appliance housing in various configurations. | 09-02-2010 |
20100194333 | INTRA-ORAL CHARGING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Systems and methods are disclosed for charging an intra-oral apparatus includes an intra-oral appliance having an appliance charger coil defining a first portion of an electromagnetic loop; and a charger base having a base charger coil defining a second portion of the electromagnetic loop, wherein the appliance charger coil and the base charger coil in combination transfer energy for inductive charging. | 08-05-2010 |
20100189288 | ACTUATOR SYSTEMS FOR ORAL-BASED APPLIANCES - Actuator systems for oral-based appliances utilizing transducers which are attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a dental or oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such oral appliances may be a custom-made device which receives incoming sounds and transmits the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element. The transducer element may utilize electromagnetic or piezoelectric transducer mechanisms and may be positioned directly along the dentition or along an oral appliance housing in various configurations. | 07-29-2010 |
20100185046 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental implant are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon the implant to form a hearing assembly. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 07-22-2010 |
20100098270 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE COMMUNICATION, POSITIONING AND MONITORING OF USER STATUS - A communication apparatus includes a bone conduction communication apparatus with a housing having a shape which is conformable to at least a portion of at least one tooth of a user; a transceiver mounted in the housing; and a transducer disposed within or upon the housing and in vibratory communication with a surface of the at least one tooth to transmit sound through the at least one tooth. A positioning system is provided to transmit positional information to the transceiver to be delivered to the transducer; and a communication device links the transceiver with a second person. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 04-22-2010 |
20100098269 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE COMMUNICATION, POSITIONING AND MONITORING OF USER STATUS - A communication apparatus includes a bone conduction communication apparatus with a housing having a shape which is conformable to at least a portion of at least one tooth of a user; a transceiver mounted in the housing; and a transducer disposed within or upon the housing and in vibratory communication with a surface of the at least one tooth to transmit sound through the at least one tooth. A positioning system is provided to transmit navigational instructions to the transceiver to be delivered to the transducer; and a long range secure communication radio links the transceiver with a remote person. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 04-22-2010 |
20100014689 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTRA-ORAL BASED COMMUNICATIONS - Systems and methods are disclosed for capturing sound for communication by mounting one or more intra-oral microphones to capture sound; and mounting a mouth wearable communicator in the oral cavity to communicate sound with a remote unit. | 01-21-2010 |
20100006111 | CUSTOM FITTED INTRA-ORAL APPLIANCES - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or actuator assembly through a custom-fitted dental appliance are disclosed herein. The customized fitting is done by the user. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded intra-orally on a tooth or oral tissue. The electronic and actuator assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating actuator element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 01-14-2010 |
20090281433 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PULMONARY MONITORING AND TREATMENT - Systems and methods are disclosed determining a pulmonary function by mounting one or more sensors intra-orally; capturing intra-oral data; and determining the pulmonary function based on an analysis of the intra-oral data. | 11-12-2009 |
20090274325 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental patch are disclosed herein. The patch assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded intra-orally on a tooth or oral tissue. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 11-05-2009 |
20090270673 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TINNITUS TREATMENT - Methods and systems for tinnitus treatment are described where a device is coupled to a surface of a bone or to a tooth or several teeth. Such a device may comprise an oral appliance having an electronic and/or transducer assembly for generating sounds via a vibrating transducer element. Generally, the transducer may be programmed to adjust any number of settings and treatment options to generate one or more frequencies of sound via the actuatable transducer to transmit a modified audio signal via vibratory conductance to an inner ear of the patient to mask the tinnitus. The audio signal is also modified to account for any hearing loss of the patient as well as a bone sensitivity threshold measured from the patient and calibrated by the programming device. | 10-29-2009 |
20090270032 | SIGNAL TRANSMISSION VIA BODY CONDUCTION - Methods and apparatus for signal transmission via body conduction are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received data and/or audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Data and/or audio signals may be encoded and transmitted or received along or through the user's body to an oral appliance contained within or along the user's mouth. Alternatively, information may be transmitted between various other devices over the user's body aside from an oral appliance. The encoded signals may be decoded and the auditory signals may be transmitted via vibrational conductance to the user. | 10-29-2009 |
20090268932 | MICROPHONE PLACEMENT FOR ORAL APPLICATIONS - Microphone placement for oral applications are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device which can enhance and/or optimize received audio signals for vibrational conduction to the user. Received audio signals may be processed to cancel acoustic echo such that undesired sounds received by one or more intra-buccal and/or extra-buccal microphones are eliminated or mitigated. Multiple microphones may be positioned throughout the user's mouth to enhance reception of audio signals from outside sources as well as from the user's own voice. For instance, one or more microphones may be placed in contact with the inner surface of the user's cheeks to detect outside audio signals as well as in direct contact with the user's tooth or teeth to receive the user's voice through vibrational detection. | 10-29-2009 |
20090220921 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE COMMUNICATION AND MONITORING OF USER STATUS - An electronic and transducer device can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a two-way communication assembly. The device contains a motion sensor to detect external forces imposed on the user such as an explosion, for example. The information is stored for medical treatment, among others. In another embodiment, the device provides an electronic and transducer device that can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a medical tag containing patient identifiable information. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device fabricated from a thermal forming process utilizing a replicate model of a dental structure obtained by conventional dental impression methods. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 09-03-2009 |
20090149722 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS TO PROVIDE TWO-WAY COMMUNICATIONS - An electronic and transducer device can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a two-way communication assembly. In another embodiment, the device provides an electronic and transducer device that can be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance or other oral device to form a medical tag containing patient identifiable information. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device fabricated from a thermal forming process utilizing a replicate model of a dental structure obtained by conventional dental impression methods. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 06-11-2009 |
20090147976 | Tinnitus masking systems - Tinnitus masking systems for treating tinnitus are described where a device is coupled to a surface of a bone or to a tooth or several teeth. Such a device may comprise an oral appliance having an electronic and/or transducer assembly for generating sounds via a vibrating transducer element. Generally, the transducer may generate one or more frequencies of sound via the actuatable transducer to transmit a modified audio signal via vibratory conductance to an inner ear of the patient to mask tinnitus during a peak of the audio signal and to allow the user to perceive the tinnitus during a trough of the audio signal. The audio signal is also modified to account for any hearing loss of the patient as well as a bone conductance profile measured from the patient. | 06-11-2009 |
20090105523 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COMPLIANCE MONITORING - Systems and methods are disclosed for determining compliance for a treatment device powered by an energy storage device by determining an average power consumption of the treatment device and a power capacity of the energy storage device; determining a start time and a stop time for using the energy storage device; determining usage based on the power capacity and the average power consumption; and determining compliance as a function of the usage, start time and stop time. In another aspect, the compliance monitoring device monitors sound delivery as a measure of compliance. | 04-23-2009 |
20090099408 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TREATING TINNITUS - Methods and apparatus for treating tinnitus are described where an oral appliance having an electronic and/or transducer assembly for generating sounds via a vibrating transducer element is coupled to a tooth or teeth. Generally, the transducer may generate one or more frequencies of sound via the actuatable transducer positioned against at least one tooth such that the sound is transmitted via vibratory conductance to an inner ear of the patient, whereby the sound completely or at least partially masks or provides sound therapy for habituation of the tinnitus perceived by the patient. The one or more generated frequencies may be correlated to measured tinnitus frequencies or they may be preset. | 04-16-2009 |
20090097685 | ACTUATOR SYSTEMS FOR ORAL-BASED APPLIANCES - Actuator systems for oral-based appliances utilizing transducers which are attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a dental or oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such oral appliances may be a custom-made device which receives incoming sounds and transmits the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element. The transducer element may utilize electromagnetic or piezoelectric transducer mechanisms and may be positioned directly along the dentition or along an oral appliance housing in various configurations. | 04-16-2009 |
20090097684 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a tooth or teeth are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon a removable oral appliance to form a hearing aid assembly. Such an oral appliance may be a custom-made device. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 04-16-2009 |
20090088598 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSMITTING VIBRATIONS - Methods and apparatus for transmitting vibrations via an electronic and/or transducer assembly through a dental implant are disclosed herein. The assembly may be attached, adhered, or otherwise embedded into or upon the implant to form a hearing assembly. The electronic and transducer assembly may receive incoming sounds either directly or through a receiver to process and amplify the signals and transmit the processed sounds via a vibrating transducer element coupled to a tooth or other bone structure, such as the maxillary, mandibular, or palatine bone structure. | 04-02-2009 |
20090052698 | BONE CONDUCTION HEARING DEVICE WITH OPEN-EAR MICROPHONE - Systems and methods for transmitting an audio signal through a bone of a user includes receiving an audio signal from a first, microphone positioned, at an entrance or in a first ear canal; and vibrating a first transducer to audibly transmit the audio signal through the bone. A second microphone can be positioned in a second ear canal and the two microphones preserve and deliver inter-aural sound level and phase differences that naturally occur so that the user can perceive directionality. | 02-26-2009 |
20080304677 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR NOISE CANCELLATION WITH MOTION TRACKING CAPABILITY - A system and method for noise cancellation is disclosed herein generally having at least one microphone, a processor, and a speaker array. The processor may contain an adaptive filtering feature, to separate desirable sound from undesirable sound. The undesirable sound may be suppressed by the processor by creating a canceling waveform and transmitting the canceling waveform to the user's head via a speaker array. The desirable sound may be enhanced by increasing the amplitude of the waveform and transmitting the amplified waveform to the user's head via a speaker array. The sound transmitted to the user's head by the system may be localized using an image tracking subsystem and speaker array. The image tracking system may track the actual visible image or alternatively a heat (e.g. infrared) image of the user's head. | 12-11-2008 |