Abstract: A method for reconstructing an ear canal from optical coherence tomography (OCT) scan data of an ear comprises extracting frame numbers and line numbers of interference intensities corresponding to one or more markers on an OCT scan guide, receiving reference frame numbers and lines numbers for one or more markers, determining a starting position and direction for the OCT ear scan from the ear scan marker frame and line numbers and the reference marker frame and line numbers, for each scan line, finding a pixel number of a maximum interference intensity value, and determining an offset distance of said pixel from said scan guide, and reconstructing a surface of the ear canal from the distance offset data.

Abstract: The manufacture of a hearing instrument having a hard inner shell and a softer outer covering, for insertion into the ear canal of the user, may be accomplished using rapid manufacturing and prototyping techniques. Starting with a digital model of the ear canal, a mold for the softer outer covering may be fabricated using a process such as stereo lithography.

Abstract: The manufacture of a hearing instrument having a hard inner shell and a softer outer covering, for insertion into the ear canal of the user, may be accomplished using rapid manufacturing and prototyping techniques. Starting with a digital model of the ear canal, a mold for the softer outer covering may be fabricated using a process such as stereo lithography.

Abstract: Receptacle tongues and complementary grooves provides a secure mount for an electronics module in the faceplate of a hearing instrument. The receptacle tongues and grooves may assume a variety of cross-sectional profiles.

Abstract: The benefits of rapid modeling and prototyping of a hearing instrument housing can be increased by fashioning the housing as a monolithic unit, incorporating the faceplate as an integral part of the housing. An opening in the faceplate region of the housing can be created to accept a module containing various electronic components of the hearing instrument.

Abstract: A force opposing tab on the peripheral surface of an electronics module will prevent inadvertent dislodging of the module from the hearing instrument housing when force is applied the battery door.

Abstract: A force opposing tab on the peripheral surface of an electronics module will prevent inadvertent dislodging of the module from the hearing instrument housing when force is applied the battery door.

Abstract: The output of an distance measuring or imaging assembly positioned in a lumen of fixed, known geometry and size can provide data sufficient to determine the three-dimensional geometry and dimensions of an object such as an ear canal. The lumen's geometry and dimensions may be predetermined or measured by measuring or imaging an object of known geometry and dimensions.

Abstract: The benefits of rapid modeling and prototyping of a hearing instrument housing can be increased by fashioning the housing as a monolithic unit, incorporating the faceplate as an integral part of the housing. An opening in the faceplate region of the housing can be created to accept a module containing various electronic components of the hearing instrument.

Abstract: The physical fit, comfort, and appearance of a hearing instrument that resides in the ear can be improved by providing the shell of the instrument with a textured finish. A variety of textured finishes can be imparted during the fabrication process or applied after fabrication.

Abstract: The physical fit, comfort, and appearance of a hearing instrument that resides in the ear can be improved by providing the shell of the instrument with a textured finish. A variety of textured finishes can be imparted during the fabrication process or applied after fabrication.