Patent ID: 6592512
Filing Date: 2003-07-15
Classification: H04R

Abstract:
An at least partially implantable hearing system for rehabilitation of a hearing disorder, comprising:at least one acoustic sensor for picking up an acoustic signal and converting it into an electrical audio sensor signal, an electronic signal processing unit for audio signal processing and amplification, the signal processing unit including an electronic driver arrangement, an electrical power supply unit which supplies individual components of the system with energy, and at least one electromechanical output transducer driven by the electronic driver arrangement and having a mechanical output impedance, said transducer being provided with an active electromechanical element and an output member for stimulating, via a passive coupling element, an ossicle of a middle ear ossicular chain, which chain has a natural capability for vibratory movement, wherein a switchable clutch arrangement is disposed between the active electromechanical element of the transducer and the passive coupling element, and wherein in an inactive condition of the electronic driver arrangement the clutch arrangement disconnects the passive coupling element from the output member of the transducer to such an extent that the mechanical output impedance of the transducer has substantially no influence on the natural capability of the ossicular chain for vibratory movement.