Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide seals for retaining hearing devices in the ear canal. An embodiment provides a seal for a hearing device comprising a curved shell having a wall and an opening at a shell apex portion. The shell defines a cavity for retention of a device component. The shell wall has a shape configured to distribute compressive forces applied to the shell perimeter such that when the shell is positioned in the canal, the shell wall dynamically conforms to changes in the shape of the canal to maintain an acoustical seal between a shell exterior surface and the canal walls. The shell can include an anti-microbial coating to produce a reduction in bacteria contacting the coating. Also, the shell wall can have a water vapor transmission rate to reduce moisture accumulation in the canal during periods of extended wear to reduce the incidence of infection and otitis.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a protective cap assembly for a CIC hearing aid. The assembly comprises a perforated cap configured to be mounted over the lateral end of the hearing aid to protect the hearing aid from contaminants. At a least a portion of the cap includes a protective coating and a plurality of perforations. The placement and size of the perforations can be configured to provide sufficient aeration and drainage to reduce a relative humidity of the cap interior when the hearing aid is positioned in the ear canal. The perforations also operate as sound conduction channels for conducting sound to the cap interior. The perforations have a minimum size wherein a single perforation provides sufficient acoustic transmittance to a hearing aid component such that a hearing aid performance parameter is not substantially adversely affected. They can also be configured to provide splash protection for the cap interior.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a removal tool for atraumatically removing a hearing device inserted deeply in the ear canal of a user. The removal tool comprises a shaft adapted to be grasp in the hand and a plurality of hooks or other attachment elements coupled to a first end of the shaft. The hooks have a shape and orientation configured to minimize injurious contact with the walls of the ear canal when the removal tool is inserted into the ear canal. The hooks are also configured to detachably engage a loop structure or other attachment system of the hearing device for removal of the device independent of a radial orientation of the shaft with respect to the hearing device. The hooks can also be configured to engage the loop structure in two or more planes for removal of the hearing device. Also, the hooks can be configured to engage the loop structure so as to exert minimal axial force on the hearing device in a medial direction.