EP1432285A2 - Hydrophobic coating of individual hearing aid components - Google Patents
Hydrophobic coating of individual hearing aid components Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1432285A2 EP1432285A2 EP03029970A EP03029970A EP1432285A2 EP 1432285 A2 EP1432285 A2 EP 1432285A2 EP 03029970 A EP03029970 A EP 03029970A EP 03029970 A EP03029970 A EP 03029970A EP 1432285 A2 EP1432285 A2 EP 1432285A2
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- housing
- hydrophobic coating
- gaps
- coating
- hearing aid
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 32
- 230000002209 hydrophobic effect Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 30
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 24
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 27
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 claims description 11
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 8
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000035699 permeability Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- YCKRFDGAMUMZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-N Fluorine atom Chemical compound [F] YCKRFDGAMUMZLT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910052731 fluorine Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000011737 fluorine Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000002105 nanoparticle Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000003980 solgel method Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000007547 defect Effects 0.000 abstract 1
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 11
- 239000007789 gas Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000035515 penetration Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005260 corrosion Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000007797 corrosion Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 3
- 210000004243 sweat Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 239000004809 Teflon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920006362 Teflon® Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004567 concrete Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000000845 anti-microbial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 1
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000008280 blood Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000004369 blood Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001311 chemical methods and process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000011109 contamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007598 dipping method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008020 evaporation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001704 evaporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002991 molded plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002114 nanocomposite Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000002496 oximetry Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000006213 oxygenation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000149 penetrating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000002035 prolonged effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001681 protective effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000005871 repellent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000005060 rubber Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000565 sealant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000004756 silanes Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000005245 sintering Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004381 surface treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
- H04R25/65—Housing parts, e.g. shells, tips or moulds, or their manufacture
- H04R25/658—Manufacture of housing parts
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
- H04R25/65—Housing parts, e.g. shells, tips or moulds, or their manufacture
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04R—LOUDSPEAKERS, MICROPHONES, GRAMOPHONE PICK-UPS OR LIKE ACOUSTIC ELECTROMECHANICAL TRANSDUCERS; DEAF-AID SETS; PUBLIC ADDRESS SYSTEMS
- H04R25/00—Deaf-aid sets, i.e. electro-acoustic or electro-mechanical hearing aids; Electric tinnitus maskers providing an auditory perception
- H04R25/60—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles
- H04R25/602—Mounting or interconnection of hearing aid parts, e.g. inside tips, housings or to ossicles of batteries
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a method for liquid-tight sealing of small gaps, cracks and / or openings in the housing walls, uses of the Process, housing of electrical or electronic Devices, having gaps, capillaries, cracks, openings and the like, which prevent the ingress of liquid must be sealed, but not against gas permeability, and a battery compartment of a hearing aid.
- DE 19502994A1 describes a waterproof hearing aid described in which the property of watertightness through complex design measures such as seals and membranes is reached.
- DE 3834316C1 describes a completely waterproof hearing aid, but shows in Not in detail compared to the previous patent application on how waterproofness is achieved and lay greater emphasis on the execution of the waterproof Controls.
- the US 005249234A and US 6510230B2 are different Approaches described to BTE devices using a Protect cover from moisture. This protective cover Depending on the version, also contains welding or moisture absorbing fabrics.
- US 20020181725A1 describes a condenser microphone described with a hydrophobic membrane to a Prevent and stick together with the backplate different methods of how this hydrophobization is achieved can be.
- US 2002100605 describes a hydrophobic coating for housings of electrical devices, in particular in relation on surge arresters. Again in more Publications are made from hydrophobic coatings Substrates such as plastics, wood, concrete, etc. described, but in which the above Problem is not an issue.
- Specially medical devices worn on the body are, like pulse rate monitors, invasive Blood property sensors, such as oximetry sensors, Heart rate monitors, hearing aids and the like are in the Rule complex apparatus, which consists of a variety individual, mechanical and electronic components exist that are manufactured in various processes and then be assembled. Because of the mechanical Tolerances of the injection molded plastic parts, which in the Most cases for housings, battery covers, switches, and Like. Are used, also arise in the assembled Condition of the devices always microscopic capillary gaps between the individual components.
- the option of hearing aid fails to build water-repellent hydrophobic materials, which wettability and thus penetration of liquid through capillary gaps would reduce the fact that such materials as e.g. Teflon, neither with the usual procedures can still be edited meet mechanical and aesthetic criteria.
- Figure 1a shows the contact angle of water on a untreated or uncoated surface 3, such as for example a polymer which for Hearing aid components is used.
- a untreated or uncoated surface 3 such as for example a polymer which for Hearing aid components is used.
- Polymers used are polyamide, ABS, etc.
- the According to FIG. 1a, the contact angle is clearly below 80 °.
- FIG. 11 A capillary gap is shown schematically in section in FIG 11, which is shown, for example, in a hearing device housing wall 7 can be formed.
- FIGS. 1a and 1b now clearly show that a Water drops according to Figure 1a with ease through the Capillary 11 can get through, while the Water drops according to Figure 1b on the surface of the Housing wall remains by penetrating through the Capillary 11 is impossible. But since there are no sealants, such as rubber seals and the like. in the Capillary 11 are arranged, the remains Get gas permeability.
- FIG 3 shows in section the area of a battery compartment a conventional hearing aid, which against Penetration of liquid is sealed. It is now important that everyone in the area of the battery compartment 19 arranged housing parts with a hydrophobic Coating are provided. These parts include the Battery cover 13, the aforementioned battery compartment 19, the Housing 23 and the function switch 21.
- the individual components are after their manufacture or Delivery and coated before installation in a hearing aid.
- a housing as shown for example in Figure 3, This means, for example, that it is after injection molding cleaned and pretreated if necessary to then using one of the methods described later to be coated hydrophobically.
- FIG. 4 shows a further embodiment of a Battery compartment from a hearing aid and turn denotes those housing parts or components which are to be provided with a hydrophobic coating.
- This Parts include, for example, a functional or Button 31, the battery cover 33 and a frame 35.
- Nanoparticles with hydrophobic and oleophobic properties and their applications were also used in DE10051182A1, DE 19544763A1 or DE19948336A1.
- Other methods for the hydrophobic coating of Polymer surfaces can be found in US 2002 / 0192385A1 or DE10106213A1.
- the coating is carried out using low-temperature plasma evaporation processes. It is the same
- the surface is cleaned and activated (e.g. 02 plasma) and then coated.
- the Coating will either consist of a compact polymer layer a fluorine-containing polymer applied to the component or a hydrophobic molecule directly to the Component plastic pinned.
- hydrophobic coatings for example in The area of a battery compartment can affect the vulnerability Corrosion in a small electronic device, such as for example a medical device, such as in particular a hearing aid, by preventing the Liquid ingress reduced or even excluded become.
- the application of the method according to the invention is pending old products already on the market possible.
- the Improving fluid resistance is possible without Design changes.
- a device can be subsequently serviced can be retrofitted with hydrophobized components.
- Service intervals due to contamination or Corrosion can be prolonged, i.e. the device over a longer lifespan.
Abstract
Description
Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum flüssigkeitsdichten Abdichten von Kleinstspalten, Ritzen und/oder Öffnungen in Gehäusewandungen, Verwendungen des Verfahrens, Gehäuse von elektrischen bzw. elektronischen Geräten, aufweisend Spalten, Kapillaren, Ritzen, Öffnungen und dgl., welche gegen das Eindringen von Flüssigkeit abzudichten sind, nicht jedoch gegen Gasdurchlässigkeit, sowie ein Batteriefach eines Hörgerätes.The present invention relates to a method for liquid-tight sealing of small gaps, cracks and / or openings in the housing walls, uses of the Process, housing of electrical or electronic Devices, having gaps, capillaries, cracks, openings and the like, which prevent the ingress of liquid must be sealed, but not against gas permeability, and a battery compartment of a hearing aid.
Insbesondere bei medizinischen Geräten, welche am Körper getragen werden besteht die Gefahr, dass durch Feuchtigkeit, Schweiss, etc. gewisse Teile und Komponenten des Gerätes korrodieren können bzw. nicht mehr funktionieren. Speziell führt das Eindringen von Feuchtigkeit und Schweiss in Hörgeräten zu Korrosion, beispielsweise der Batterie, und in einigen Fällen zu Störungen der Elektronik sowie der elektroakustischen Wandler. Entsprechend werden verschiedene Verfahren beschrieben, um Hörgeräte feuchtigkeitsresistenter zu machen.Especially with medical devices that are on the body there is a risk that Moisture, sweat, etc. certain parts and components of the device can corrode or no longer function. The penetration of Moisture and sweat in hearing aids for corrosion, for example the battery, and in some cases too Electronics and electroacoustic faults Converter. Different procedures are used accordingly described to make hearing aids more moisture resistant do.
In der DE 19502994A1 wird ein wasserdichtes Hörgerät beschrieben, in welchem die Eigenschaft der Wasserdichtheit durch aufwendige konstruktive Massnahmen, wie Dichtungen und Membranen erreicht wird. Die DE 3834316C1 beschreibt ein vollständig wasserdichtes Hörgerät, zeigt aber im Vergleich zur vorherigen Patentanmeldung nicht im Detail auf, wie die Wasserdichtheit erreicht wird und legt grösseres Gewicht auf die Ausführung der wasserdichten Bedienungselemente. Wiederum in der JP 11069498, der US 005249234A und der US 6510230B2 werden verschiedene Ansätze beschrieben, um HdO-Geräte mittels einer Schutzhülle vor Feuchtigkeit zu schützen. Diese Schutzhülle enthält je nach Ausführung auch schweiss- oder feuchtigkeitsabsorbierende Stoffe.DE 19502994A1 describes a waterproof hearing aid described in which the property of watertightness through complex design measures such as seals and membranes is reached. DE 3834316C1 describes a completely waterproof hearing aid, but shows in Not in detail compared to the previous patent application on how waterproofness is achieved and lay greater emphasis on the execution of the waterproof Controls. Again in JP 11069498, the US 005249234A and US 6510230B2 are different Approaches described to BTE devices using a Protect cover from moisture. This protective cover Depending on the version, also contains welding or moisture absorbing fabrics.
In der US 20020181725A1 wird ein Kondensator-Mikrophon beschrieben mit einer hydrophoben Membrane, um ein Zusammenkleben mit dem Backplate zu verhindern und auch verschiedene Methoden, wie diese Hydrophobisierung erreicht werden kann.US 20020181725A1 describes a condenser microphone described with a hydrophobic membrane to a Prevent and stick together with the backplate different methods of how this hydrophobization is achieved can be.
Die US 2002100605 beschreibt eine hydrophobe Beschichtung für Gehäuse von elektrischen Geräten, insbesondere in Bezug auf Überspannungsableiter. Wiederum in weiteren Druckschriften werden hydrophobe Beschichtungen von Substraten, wie Kunststoffen, Holz, Beton, etc. beschrieben, bei welchen aber die oben geschilderte Problematik kein Thema ist.US 2002100605 describes a hydrophobic coating for housings of electrical devices, in particular in relation on surge arresters. Again in more Publications are made from hydrophobic coatings Substrates such as plastics, wood, concrete, etc. described, but in which the above Problem is not an issue.
Speziell medizinische Geräte, welche am Körper getragen werden, wie Pulsfrequenzmesser, invasiv ermittelnde Bluteigenschaftssensoren, wie Oximetrie-Sensoren, Herzfrequenzmessgeräte, Hörgeräte und dgl. sind in der Regel komplexe Apparate, welche aus einer Vielzahl einzelner, mechanischer und elektronischer Komponenten bestehen, die in verschiedenen Verfahren hergestellt und anschliessend montiert werden. Wegen der mechanischen Toleranzen der Spritzgusskunststoffteile, welche in den meisten Fällen für Gehäuse, Batteriedeckel, Schalter, und dgl. verwendet werden, entstehen auch im zusammengebauten Zustand der Geräte immer mikroskopische Kapillarspalte zwischen den einzelnen Komponenten.Specially medical devices worn on the body are, like pulse rate monitors, invasive Blood property sensors, such as oximetry sensors, Heart rate monitors, hearing aids and the like are in the Rule complex apparatus, which consists of a variety individual, mechanical and electronic components exist that are manufactured in various processes and then be assembled. Because of the mechanical Tolerances of the injection molded plastic parts, which in the Most cases for housings, battery covers, switches, and Like. Are used, also arise in the assembled Condition of the devices always microscopic capillary gaps between the individual components.
Weil die überragende Mehrheit dieser medizinischen Geräte, wie beispielsweise Hörgeräte, mit Zink-Luft-Batterien betrieben werden ist es nicht möglich, das Gerät hermetisch zu verschliessen, da die Batterie eine konstante Sauerstoffversorgung benötigt, um die Betriebsspannung aufrecht zu erhalten. Selbstverständlich ist diese Anforderung auch bei anderen elektronischen bzw. elektrischen Komponenten denkbar, welche eine gewisse Belüftung benötigen. Dies hat zur Folge, dass eine vollständige Dichtheit, wie teilweise im Stand der Technik beschrieben, nicht geeignet ist. Auch aufwendige mechanische Konstruktionen mittels Dichtungen und poröser Membranen, wie aus dem Stand der Technik bekannt, sind nicht geeignet und machen medizinische Geräte in der Regel grösser und teurer.Because the vast majority of these medical devices, such as hearing aids, with zinc-air batteries it is not possible to operate the device hermetically to close since the battery is a constant Oxygenation needed to get the operating voltage to maintain. Of course this is Requirement for other electronic or electrical components conceivable, which have a certain Need ventilation. As a result, one complete tightness, as partially in the prior art described, is not suitable. Even elaborate mechanical constructions using seals and porous Membranes as are known in the art not suitable and usually make medical equipment bigger and more expensive.
Es ist äusserst schwierig die Einflüsse von Kapillarspalten in der Designphase eines Hörgerätes bzw. generell eines medizinischen Kleinstgerätes vorauszusehen. Da jedoch mechanische Konstruktionen zur Verhinderung eines Flüssigkeitseintrittes bei bestehenden Gerätedesigns nicht mehr ohne weiteres möglich sind, ist es eine Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, die Dichtheit von medizinischen Geräten, wie insbesondere Kleinstgeräten und Hörgeräten zu erfüllen ohne Designänderungen vornehmen zu müssen. Wesentlich ist auch, dass bei vollständigem Abdichten gegen Feuchtigkeitseintritt nach wie vor eine Gasdurchlässigkeit in den Kapillarspalten vorhanden ist.The effects of capillary gaps are extremely difficult in the design phase of a hearing aid or generally one to predict small medical equipment. However, since mechanical constructions to prevent a Liquid ingress with existing device designs is not are more easily possible, it is a task of present invention, the tightness of medical Devices, such as especially small devices and hearing aids meet without having to make design changes. It is also essential that with complete sealing against Moisture entry remains a gas permeability is present in the capillary gaps.
In der Entwicklung von Hörgeräten und dgl. geht der Trend immer mehr in den Bau modularer Komponenten, welche für verschiedene Geräte neu kombiniert werden können. Zur Reduktion der Arbeitszeit und -kosten und der Verbesserung der Reproduzierbarkeit wird auch beispielsweise für Im-Ohr-Hörgeräte eine höhere Modularität angestrebt. Das inhärente Problem bei modularen Systemen sind jedoch die erwähnten Kapillarspalten, die beim Zusammensetzen der einzelnen Module zu einem Gerät entstehen. Durch diese Kapillaren wird ein Eindringen von Flüssigkeit in das Hörgerät beschleunigt.The trend is in the development of hearing aids and the like more and more in the construction of modular components, which for different devices can be combined again. to Reduction of working hours and costs and improvement Reproducibility is also used, for example, for in-the-ear hearing aids striving for a higher modularity. The inherent The problem with modular systems, however, are those mentioned Capillary gaps when assembling the individual Modules for one device are created. Through these capillaries liquid penetration into the hearing aid accelerated.
Schliesslich scheitert die Möglichkeit, das Hörgerät aus wasserabstossenden hydrophoben Werkstoffen zu bauen, welche die Benetzbarkeit und damit ein Eindringen von Flüssigkeit durch Kapillarspalten reduzieren würde an der Tatsache, dass solche Werkstoffe, wie z.B. Teflon, weder mit den üblichen Verfahren bearbeitet werden können, noch die mechanischen und ästhetischen Kriterien erfüllen.Ultimately, the option of hearing aid fails to build water-repellent hydrophobic materials, which wettability and thus penetration of liquid through capillary gaps would reduce the fact that such materials as e.g. Teflon, neither with the usual procedures can still be edited meet mechanical and aesthetic criteria.
Erfindungsgemäss wird zur Lösung der oben geschilderten Problematik vorgeschlagen, durch gezielte, hydrophobe Beschichtung einzelner Komponenten bzw. Bereichen eine Gehäusewandung eines elektronischen oder elektrischen Gerätes, wie insbesondere eines medizinischen Gerätes, im Bereich der erwähnten Kapillarspalten, Ritzen und dgl. diese gegen einen Flüssigkeitseintritt zu schützen, indem die hydrophobe Beschichtung (Hydrophobisierung) der einzelnen Bauteile bzw. Gehäusebereiche die Oberflächenenergie des Werkstoffes erniedrigt. Dies bewirkt, dass sich Flüssigkeitstropfen, wie Wasser, Schweiss und dgl., auf der Oberfläche der Bauteile bzw. Gehäusebereiche nicht ausbreiten können, sondern sich mit einem höheren Kontaktwinkel zusammenziehen, wie dies in den Figuren 1a und 1b bzw. 2 gezeigt ist. Dadurch ist es für einen Flüssigkeitstropfen schwieriger, durch die Kapillarspalte ins Innere des medizinischen Gerätes, wie beispielsweise des Hörgerätes, einzudringen. Andererseits aber bleiben diese Kapillarspalten bzw. Ritzen durch den Verzicht auf Anordnen von Dichtungen gasdurchlässig, so dass der eingangs erwähnte Gasaustausch mit der Umgebung gewährleistet ist, wie beispielsweise die Sauerstoffversorgung von Zink-Luft-Batterien.According to the invention the solution outlined above Problem suggested by targeted, hydrophobic Coating of individual components or areas Housing wall of an electronic or electrical Device, such as a medical device in particular Area of the mentioned capillary gaps, cracks and the like protect them against liquid ingress by the hydrophobic coating (hydrophobization) of the individual components or housing areas Lowered surface energy of the material. This causes liquid drops, like water, Sweat and the like, on the surface of the components or Housing areas can not spread, but with contract at a higher contact angle, as in the Figures 1a and 1b and 2 is shown. It is for a drop of liquid more difficult through which Capillary gaps inside the medical device, such as for example, the hearing aid. on the other hand but these capillary gaps or cracks remain through the Dispensing with the arrangement of seals permeable to gas, see above that the aforementioned gas exchange with the environment is guaranteed, such as the Oxygen supply to zinc-air batteries.
Die Erfindung wird nun beispielsweise und unter Bezug auf die beigefügten Figuren näher erläutert.The invention will now be described by way of example and with reference to the attached figures explained in more detail.
Dabei zeigen:
- Fig. 1a und 1b
- den Einfluss einer hydrophoben Beschichtung auf die Benetzbarkeit der beschichteten Oberfläche bzw. auf den Kontaktwinkel von Wasser auf der Oberfläche,
- Fig. 2
- im Schnitt dargestellt, eine Kapillaröffnung bzw. eine Spalte in einer Gehäusewandung, wie beispielsweise eines Hörgerätes,
- Fig. 3 und 4
- je ein Beispiel eines Batteriefaches im Schnitt eines Hörgerätes.
- 1a and 1b
- the influence of a hydrophobic coating on the wettability of the coated surface or on the contact angle of water on the surface,
- Fig. 2
- shown in section, a capillary opening or a column in a housing wall, such as a hearing aid,
- 3 and 4
- each an example of a battery compartment in the section of a hearing aid.
Figur 1a zeigt den Kontaktwinkel von Wasser auf einer unbehandelten bzw. nicht beschichteten Oberfläche 3, wie beispielsweise eines Polymeres, welches für Hörgerätebestandteile eingesetzt wird. Beispielsweise verwendete Polymere sind Polyamid, ABS, etc.. Der Kontaktwinkel liegt gemäss Figur 1a deutlich unter 80°.Figure 1a shows the contact angle of water on a untreated or uncoated surface 3, such as for example a polymer which for Hearing aid components is used. For example Polymers used are polyamide, ABS, etc. The According to FIG. 1a, the contact angle is clearly below 80 °.
Durch eine hydrophobe Beschichtung auf der Oberfläche 5
wird nun der Kontaktwinkel deutlich gesteigert, wie
beispielsweise über 100°, was in etwa der Benetzbarkeit von
Teflon entspricht.Through a hydrophobic coating on the
In Figur 2 ist schematisch im Schnitt eine Kapillarspalte
11 dargestellt, welche beispielsweise in einer Hörgeräte-Gehäusewandung
7 ausgebildet sein kann. Ein Vergleich mit
den beiden Figuren 1a und 1b zeigt nun deutlich, dass ein
Wassertropfen gemäss Figur 1a mit Leichtigkeit durch die
Kapillare 11 hindurchgelangen kann, währenddem der
Wassertropfen gemäss Figur 1b auf der Oberfläche der
Gehäusewandung verbleibt, indem Eindringen durch die
Kapillare 11 unmöglich ist. Da aber keine dichtende Mittel,
wie beispielsweise Gummidichtungen und dgl. in der
Kapillare 11 angeordnet sind, bleibt trotzdem die
Gasdurchlässigkeit erhalten.A capillary gap is shown schematically in section in FIG
11, which is shown, for example, in a hearing
Anhand der beiden Figuren 3 und 4 sollen nun konkrete Beispiele dargestellt werden, welche Bauteile, wie je ein Batteriefach in einem Hörgerät, darstellen, welches erfindungsgemäss abzudichten ist.Based on the two figures 3 and 4 are now concrete Examples are shown which components, as each one Battery compartment in a hearing aid, which one is to be sealed according to the invention.
Figur 3 zeigt im Schnitt den Bereich eines Batteriefaches
eines herkömmlichen Hörgerätes, welches gegen das
Eindringen von Flüssigkeit abgedichtet ist. Dabei ist es
nun wichtig, dass sämtliche im Bereich des Batteriefaches
19 angeordneten Gehäuseteile mit einer hydrophoben
Beschichtung versehen sind. Diese Teile umfassen den
Batteriedeckel 13, das erwähnte Batteriefach 19, das
Gehäuse 23 sowie den Funktionsschalter 21.Figure 3 shows in section the area of a battery compartment
a conventional hearing aid, which against
Penetration of liquid is sealed. It is
now important that everyone in the area of the
Die einzelnen Bauteile werden nach ihrer Herstellung oder Lieferung und vor dem Einbau in ein Hörgerät beschichtet. Für ein Gehäuse, wie beispielsweise dargestellt in Figur 3, heisst dies beispielsweise, dass es nach dem Spritzgiessen gereinigt und falls nötigt vorbehandelt wird, um anschliessend mit einem der später beschriebenen Verfahren hydrophob beschichtet zu werden.The individual components are after their manufacture or Delivery and coated before installation in a hearing aid. For a housing, as shown for example in Figure 3, This means, for example, that it is after injection molding cleaned and pretreated if necessary to then using one of the methods described later to be coated hydrophobically.
Welche Komponenten von einem spezifischen Hörgeräte-Design beschichtet werden müssen um einen möglichst wirksamen Schutz gegen das Eindringen von Flüssigkeit zu gewährleisten muss für jedes Hörgerät einzeln evaluiert werden. Grundsätzlich müssen mehrere Komponenten beschichtet werden, um eine Hydrophobisierung aller Seiten eines Kapillarsystems zu erreichen, wie beispielsweise unter Bezug auf Figur 3 beschrieben.What components of a specific hearing aid design must be coated in order to be as effective as possible Protection against liquid ingress guarantee must be evaluated individually for each hearing aid become. Basically, you need several components be coated to make all sides hydrophobic to achieve a capillary system, such as described with reference to Figure 3.
Figur 4 zeigt eine weitere Ausführungsform eines
Batteriefaches von einem Hörgerät und wiederum werden
diejenigen Gehäuseteile bzw. Komponenten bezeichnet, welche
mit einer hydrophoben Beschichtung zu versehen sind. Diese
Teile umfassen beispielsweise einen Funktions- oder
Tastknopf 31, den Batteriedeckel 33 sowie einen Rahmen 35.Figure 4 shows a further embodiment of a
Battery compartment from a hearing aid and turn
denotes those housing parts or components which
are to be provided with a hydrophobic coating. This
Parts include, for example, a functional or
Button 31, the
Im Gegensatz zu den verschiedenen, eingangs beschriebenen Lösungen zum flüssigkeitsdichten Ausrüsten von Geräten wird in der vorliegenden Erfindung ein Flüssigkeitsschutz durch eine gezielte Oberflächenbehandlung einzelner Komponenten eines elektronischen oder elektrischen Gerätes, wie beispielsweise einzelner Hörgeräte-Komponenten, erreicht. Mit welchem Verfahren die Bauteile hydrophobisiert werden ist an sich für die Erfindung von zweitrangiger Bedeutung, da eine Vielzahl derartiger Verfahren aus dem Stand der Technik bekannt sind. Nachfolgend sollen lediglich einige Verfahren beispielsweise angeführt werden, für das bessere Verständnis für die vorliegende Erfindung.In contrast to the different ones described at the beginning Solutions for the liquid-tight equipping of devices in the present invention through liquid protection a targeted surface treatment of individual components an electronic or electrical device, such as for example, individual hearing aid components. Which method is used to make the components hydrophobic is in itself of secondary importance for the invention, since a variety of such processes from the prior art Technology are known. Below are just a few Procedures are cited, for example, for the better Understanding of the present invention.
Grundsätzlich bieten sich chemische und physikalische Beschichtungsverfahren an. Bekannt sind beispielsweise Beschichtungen mittels sogenannter Sol-Gel Prozesse. Diese Verfahren stammen aus der chemischen Nanotechnologie. Die Oberfläche wird mit hydrophoben Nanopartikeln beschichtet, die in ein Polymernetzwerk eingebunden sind. Diese Schichten sind Verbundwerkstoffe (Nanokomposite) mit organischen und anorganischen Komponenten, welche über Sol-Gel Prozesse erzeugt werden können. Die Schichten werden durch einfache Tauch- oder Sprühprozesse aufgetragen und anschliessend ausgehärtet. Prinzipiell lassen sich diese Schichten auf alle Materialien auftragen, die die notwendigen Temperaturen zum Aushärten (Sintern) vertragen. Für die meisten Werkstoffe, die in Hörgeräten eingesetzt werden ist eine Beschichtung über Sol-Gel Prozesse möglich. Durch die Auswahl der einzelnen chemischen Komponenten lassen sich die Eigenschaften der Oberfläche einstellen und hydrophobe oder auch antimikrobielle Effekte erzielen, wie z.B. in der WO03/094574 beschrieben. Basically chemical and physical are available Coating process. For example, are known Coatings using so-called sol-gel processes. This Processes originate from chemical nanotechnology. The Surface is coated with hydrophobic nanoparticles, which are integrated into a polymer network. This Layers are made of composite materials (nanocomposites) organic and inorganic components, which are sol-gel Processes can be generated. The layers are applied by simple dipping or spraying processes and then cured. In principle, these can be Apply layers to all materials that the tolerate the necessary temperatures for hardening (sintering). For most materials used in hearing aids coating using sol-gel processes is possible. By choosing the individual chemical components the properties of the surface can be adjusted and achieve hydrophobic or antimicrobial effects, such as e.g. described in WO03 / 094574.
Der Vorteil dieser Beschichtungen liegt in der einfachen Handhabung und dem geringen apparativen Aufwand der nötig ist.The advantage of these coatings is that they are simple Handling and the low amount of equipment required is.
Nanopartikel mit hydrophoben und oleophoben Eigenschaften und deren Applikationen wurden beispielsweise auch in DE10051182A1, DE 19544763A1 oder DE19948336A1 beschrieben. Weitere Verfahren zur hydrophoben Beschichtung von Polymeroberflächen finden sich in US 2002/0192385A1 oder DE10106213A1.Nanoparticles with hydrophobic and oleophobic properties and their applications were also used in DE10051182A1, DE 19544763A1 or DE19948336A1. Other methods for the hydrophobic coating of Polymer surfaces can be found in US 2002 / 0192385A1 or DE10106213A1.
Selbstverständlich sind auch weitere chemische Hydrophobisierungsprozesse bekannt, wie beispielsweise unter Verwendung von Beschichtungen aus hydradisierten Silanen, fluorhaltigen Polykondensatbeschichtungen, etc..Of course, there are also other chemical ones Hydrophobization processes known, such as using coatings from hydradized Silanes, fluorine-containing polycondensate coatings, etc.
Nebst chemischen Verfahren sind auch physikalische Verfahren, wie beispielsweise Beschichtungen über Plasmaverfahren, geeignet.In addition to chemical processes, there are also physical ones Processes such as coatings over Plasma process, suitable.
Die Beschichtung erfolgt über Niedertemperatur-Plasmaverdampfungsverfahren. Dabei wird im gleichen Arbeitsschritt die Oberfläche gereinigt und aktiviert (z.B. 02 Plasma) und anschliessend beschichtet. Bei der Beschichtung wird entweder eine kompakte Polymerschicht aus einem fluorhaltigen Polymer auf das Bauteil aufgebracht oder ein hydrophobes Molekül direkt an den Bauteilkunststoff angeheftet.The coating is carried out using low-temperature plasma evaporation processes. It is the same The surface is cleaned and activated (e.g. 02 plasma) and then coated. In the Coating will either consist of a compact polymer layer a fluorine-containing polymer applied to the component or a hydrophobic molecule directly to the Component plastic pinned.
Die Vorteile der vorliegenden Erfindung sind die Folgenden:The advantages of the present invention are as follows:
Infolge der hydrophoben Beschichtungen, beispielsweise im Bereich eines Batteriefaches kann die Anfälligkeit auf Korrosion in einem elektronischen Kleinstgerät, wie beispielsweise einem medizinischen Gerät, wie insbesondere einem Hörgerät, durch Verhinderung des Flüssigkeitseintrittes vermindert oder gar ausgeschlossen werden.As a result of the hydrophobic coatings, for example in The area of a battery compartment can affect the vulnerability Corrosion in a small electronic device, such as for example a medical device, such as in particular a hearing aid, by preventing the Liquid ingress reduced or even excluded become.
Die Anwendung des erfindungsgemässen Verfahrens ist auf alte, schon in den Markt eingeführte Produkte möglich. Die Verbesserung der Flüssigkeitsresistenz ist möglich ohne Designänderungen. Ein Gerät kann nachträglich im Service mit hydrophobisierten Bauteilen nachgerüstet werden.The application of the method according to the invention is pending old products already on the market possible. The Improving fluid resistance is possible without Design changes. A device can be subsequently serviced can be retrofitted with hydrophobized components.
Serviceintervalle bedingt durch Verschmutzung oder Korrosion können verlängert werden, d.h. das Gerät verfügt über eine längere Lebensdauer.Service intervals due to contamination or Corrosion can be prolonged, i.e. the device over a longer lifespan.
Bei modularen elektronischen Geräten, wie Medizinalgeräten bzw. Hörgeräten, mit vielen Kapillarspalten ist eine Verminderung/Veränderung des Wassereintrittes möglich. Dadurch fallen aufwendige, mechanische Dichtungen weg und die Geräte können kleiner und kostengünstiger gebaut werden.For modular electronic devices, such as medical devices or hearing aids with many capillary gaps is one Reduction / change of water entry possible. This eliminates complex mechanical seals the devices can be built smaller and cheaper become.
Claims (12)
Priority Applications (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DK03029970.5T DK1432285T3 (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2003-12-30 | Hydrophobic coating of the individual components of the hearing instrument |
US10/749,291 US7267847B2 (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2003-12-30 | Hydrophobic coating of individual components of hearing aid devices |
EP03029970.5A EP1432285B1 (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2003-12-30 | Hydrophobic coating of individual hearing aid components |
CN 200410098341 CN1638531B (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2004-12-03 | Hydrophobic coating of individual hearing aid components |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US10/749,291 US7267847B2 (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2003-12-30 | Hydrophobic coating of individual components of hearing aid devices |
EP03029970.5A EP1432285B1 (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2003-12-30 | Hydrophobic coating of individual hearing aid components |
Publications (3)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP1432285A2 true EP1432285A2 (en) | 2004-06-23 |
EP1432285A3 EP1432285A3 (en) | 2004-12-22 |
EP1432285B1 EP1432285B1 (en) | 2016-06-08 |
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EP03029970.5A Expired - Lifetime EP1432285B1 (en) | 2003-12-30 | 2003-12-30 | Hydrophobic coating of individual hearing aid components |
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EP2422887A1 (en) * | 2010-08-27 | 2012-02-29 | Oticon A/S | A method of coating a surface with a water and oil repellant polymer layer |
US10264374B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2019-04-16 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Ball and socket connection with an acoustic seal and mounting interface for a hearing assistance device |
US11076245B2 (en) | 2011-03-18 | 2021-07-27 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Ball and socket connection with an acoustic seal and mounting interface for a hearing assistance device |
WO2013087357A3 (en) * | 2011-12-15 | 2013-08-29 | Robert Bosch Gmbh | Hard shell housing comprising superhydrophobic material |
US10284974B2 (en) | 2013-07-10 | 2019-05-07 | Starkey Laboratories, Inc. | Acoustically transparent barrier layer to seal audio transducers |
DE102014110603B4 (en) | 2014-07-28 | 2019-09-12 | Martin Koepsell | Housing with sealed interior |
WO2017125130A1 (en) | 2016-01-19 | 2017-07-27 | Sonova Ag | Self-drying hearing aid and method for transporting humidity out of such hearing aid |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1432285A3 (en) | 2004-12-22 |
US20050141738A1 (en) | 2005-06-30 |
US7267847B2 (en) | 2007-09-11 |
EP1432285B1 (en) | 2016-06-08 |
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