Patent ID: 7387187

Claim:
A method for adapting a hearing device conceived for an individual's ear to actual changed needs of said individual's ear with respect to characteristics of the outer surface of said hearing device comprising the steps of: first measuring the individuals ear for first fitting the hearing device; forming a first shell for the hearing device specifically customized for the individual's ear and for mounting directly electronic components of the hearing device; providing said hearing device with said first shell and said electronic components directly within said shell; second measuring the individual's ear some time after said first measuring to determine changed needs of the individual from changes in geometric characteristics of the individual's ear; forming a second shell for the hearing device, said second shell having an outer surface specifically customized for the changes in the individual's ear and having an insertion opening within a section of said second shell; removing said electronic components from said first shell; and introducing said electronic components through said insertion opening into said second shell and collapsing said section with said insertion opening, thereby securing said electronic components within said second shell to form the hearing device newly adapted for the individual's changed needs.