Patent ID: 8781141

Claim:
A modular connection assembly for a hearing assistance device for a wearer having an ear with an ear canal, the apparatus comprising: a first connector connected to a plurality of wires disposed within a cable, the first connector including first contacts and adapted for connection to hearing assistance device electronics within a housing of the hearing assistance device; a second connector connected to the plurality of wires, the second connector including second contacts and adapted to connect to a receiver configured to be worn in or about the ear, the receiver connected to at least a pair of the plurality of wires; and wherein one or more electronic components outside of the housing and the ear are configured to be connected to at least one wire of the plurality of wires, wherein the one or more electronics components disposed in a flexible retention element includes a telecoil, a GMR (giant magneto-resistive) sensor or a TMR (tunneling magneto-resistive) sensor, and wherein at least one of the first connector and second connector include an injection molded circuit (IMC) connector including a two part plug and connection pad, wherein at least one of the first and second connector are configured to connect to a locking mechanism of the hearing assistance device including a retaining mechanism of a mating receptacle to make a positive mechanical connection and provide a good electrical connection, and wherein the first connector and second connector are adapted for detachable connection for rapid replacement of the plurality of wires or the receiver.