Patent ID: 6496734
Filing Date: 2002-12-17
Classification: A61N,H04R

Abstract:
An auditory prosthesis system for assisting a patient having hearing organs including a functioning stapedius muscle, said system comprising:a sound input receiving sounds and generating corresponding sound signals representative of said sounds; an output circuit applying output signals to said patient causing said patient to experience corresponding hearing sensations; a stapedius reflex monitor that detects a state of said stapedius muscle and generates a corresponding stapedius signal, said stapedius signal being indicative of one of sound intensities subjectively perceived by said patient and a prospective speech episode during which the patient utters sounds; and a signal adjusting circuit that adjusts said sound signals in accordance with said stapedius signal to generate said output signals said signal adjusting circuit including an amplifier having a gain and receiving said sound signals, said amplifier being adapted to generate corresponding amplified signals, said output signals corresponding to said amplified signals, and an automatic gain control circuit that adjust said gain dynamically in accordance with said stapedius signal.