Smartphone based custom-fit and low-cost hearing aids manufacturing system

Project Summary: We propose in this SBIR effort to create an accessible, low-cost, and customized hearing aid manufacturing system that leverages smartphone-based 3D ear imaging, automated shell generation, and efficient 3D printing combined with modular electronic integration. Hearing loss is the third most prevalent chronic health condition facing seniors. Untreated hearing loss has been shown to lead to physical, social, emotional, and psychological problems. Unfortunately, fewer than 20 percent of those with hearing loss who require intervention and treatment seek help for their condition. Reasons for this grim situation are expensive hearing aid cost, ineffective hearing aid shell fitting optimization process, and inadequate centers or offices especially in poor and underserved communities. These have in fact generated significant barriers in affordability, adoption, and accessibility for hearing aid sufferers. The proposed solution will have the following impact and significance: Effectively reducing custom-fit hearing aid cost through a mobile 3D imaging framework; Better fitting and comfort for improved compliance; Better user experience through non-invasive 3D ear imaging; Greatly increasing the accessibility on custom-fit OTC hearing aids through the gateway of smartphones; and making localized custom-fit hearing aid production possible for better and more accessible care. Hearing loss is a public health issue and is among the leading public health concerns especially for the increasing aging population. In 2020, 55 percent of all adults with hearing loss were 70 or older. In 2060, that rate will jump to 67 percent. Before seeking a hearing aid, most hearing aid users had lived with hearing loss for more than 10 years and their impairment had progressed to moderate-to-severe levels. Undoubtedly, the development of a low cost and ubiquitous mobile platform-based and custom-fit hearing aid shell optimization and rapid prototyping method will have significant impact on the elderlies especially for the low- and middle-income sufferers.