SBIR-STTR Award

Red Tail Hawk Corp. is partnering with Predictec, Inc. in researching a new method for taking impressions of the ear canal and concha. The impressions will be used to fabricate custom-molded earplugs (passive and communications) that provide the highest attenuation performance while maintaining comfort. A database system for disseminating the impression digital data will also be researched. The result of the Phase I effort will be a system for making digital impressions that has been tested and compared to traditional methods.

Benefit:
The new impression system will be more accurate than traditional methods and will result in a better fit for higher attenuation and greater comfort. The system will be safer than traditional methods and will include a database for diseminating data via the internet. Ultimately, the new system will make it easier to create ear impressions and disseminate ear impression data. The system is targeted for passive and communications earplugs; however, it can also be used for fitting hearing aids. As such, it has high commercial potential.

Keywords:
scanning, scanning, custom, scanner, impression, earplug

The Navy, and DoD in general, are using custom molded earplugs for maximum hearing protection. To fabricate these earplugs, an impression of the ear canal/concha is needed. Currently, a silicone material is injected into the ear canal/concha. The material cures in a short time, and the physical impression is created. This impression is then typically scanned using a laser to generate digital data. A new method for generating digital ear impressions will be developed during this project. The method is safe and generates the digital data directly, obviating the step of laser scanning. In addition, a database management for storing the data is being developed.

Benefit:
The research and development conducted during this projet will result in a safer, faster, and more accurate method for generating digital ear impressions. Custom earplug manufacturers as well as hearing aid manufacturers could use the new technology to their benefit.

Keywords:
Ear Canal, scanning, earplug, Protection, Hearing