Implantable Micro-Transducer for Hearing Aids Based on PZT Thin Film Coated Metallic Diaphragm

• Research unit: INNOSUISSE
• Project number: 14410.1;9 PFNM-NM

Short description (German)

Implantable Micro-Transducer for Hearing Aids Based on PZT Thin Film Coated Metallic Diaphragm

Short description (English)

Implantable Micro-Transducer for Hearing Aids Based on PZT Thin Film Coated Metallic Diaphragm

Abstract (German)

Advanced Bionics is developing a novel mechanical micro-stimulator for the treatment of hearing losses by direct stimulation of the fluids of the inner ear (cochlea). The goal of this project is to develop an implantable microtransducer with Piezo PZT thin film to be deposited on a metallic foil, forming part of the biocompatible encapsulation of the transducer. The PZT thin film shall be optimized to achieve above state-of-the-art piezoelectric coefficients. Its main characteristics such as mechanical performance, reliability and aging shall be investigated in detail.

Abstract (English)

Advanced Bionics is developing a novel mechanical micro-stimulator for the treatment of hearing losses by direct stimulation of the fluids of the inner ear (cochlea). The goal of this project is to develop an implantable microtransducer with Piezo PZT thin film to be deposited on a metallic foil, forming part of the biocompatible encapsulation of the transducer. The PZT thin film shall be optimized to achieve above state-of-the-art piezoelectric coefficients. Its main characteristics such as mechanical performance, reliability and aging shall be investigated in detail.