Work

Array of micro-epidermal actuators for noninvasive pediatric flexible conductive hearing aids

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Corrective surgeries and implantable aids are highly invasive for pediatric patients with conductive hearing loss. Flexible hearing aids are a noninvasive solution to address pediatric hearing loss. These aids generate vibrations on epidermal layer of skin behind the ear using micro-epidermal actuators to bypass the auditory canal. However, the major challenge is to generate a strong level of vibrations that can reach cochlea. Here, we designed, fabricated, and characterized arrays of micro-epidermal actuators to increase the vibration level from the flexible aids, improve frequency response and control the directionality of vibrations. Our human subject study showed that the flexible hearing aid with an array of actuators improved the hearing threshold by an average of 13.8 dB at 500 Hz, compared to a device with a single actuator. Also, the flexible aid with two actuators enhanced the hearing threshold by 30.5 dB at 1 kHz and 20.5 dB across 0.25–8 kHz versus unaided hearing. Flexible conductive hearing aids with an array of actuators improve patients’ hearing noninvasively. Here, an array of micro-epidermal actuators was implemented into the hearing aid and improved the hearing threshold by 30.5 dB at 1 kHz.

Source: Communications Engineering

DOI: 10.1038/s44172-025-00369-7

Authors: Enosh Lim, Miriam Redleaf, Mohammad J. Moghimi

Institutions: Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Wake Forest University, University of Illinois Chicago, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist

Language: English

Topic: Hearing Loss and Rehabilitation

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,190