Patents by Inventor Mike Schugt

Mike Schugt has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Method for creating a coupling between a device and an ear structure in an implantable hearing assistance device
    Patent number: 6875166
    Abstract: A method for creating a coupling between an implantable device, such as a transducer, and a structure of the ear, such as an ossicle, in an implantable hearing assistance device. The coupling permits slip between the device and the structure and provides a neutral load. The device is positioned such that it either lightly touches or is positioned away from the structure. In one embodiment, the surface of the device or the structure is cleaned while the remaining surface, that is, the surface not cleaned, is coated with a solution. An adhesive material is applied between the device and the structure. The solution prevents a bond from forming at that interface while a bond forms at the remaining surface. Alternatively, a compliant adhesive may be used. In another embodiment, the surface of the device is coated with a gel, the gel optionally being covered with a metallic foil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: St. Croix Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Kai Kroll, Ann M. Gronda, Mike Schugt
  • Flexible transducer supports
    Patent number: 6730015
    Abstract: A flexible support device for use in positioning and supporting a device, such as a transducer, in contact with a structure of the ear. The support device positions the device for securing of the device with an adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventors: Mike Schugt, Clair W. Madsen, Michael E. Glasscock, III
  • Method for creating a coupling between a device and an ear structure in an implantable hearing assistance device
    Publication number: 20040039244
    Abstract: A method for creating a coupling between an implantable device, such as a transducer, and a structure of the ear, such as an ossicle, in an implantable hearing assistance device. The coupling permits slip between the device and the structure and provides a neutral load. The device is positioned such that it either lightly touches or is positioned away from the structure. In one embodiment, the surface of the device or the structure is cleaned while the remaining surface, that is, the surface not cleaned, is coated with a solution. An adhesive material is applied between the device and the structure. The solution prevents a bond from forming at that interface while a bond forms at the remaining surface. Alternatively, a compliant adhesive may be used. In another embodiment, the surface of the device is coated with a gel, the gel optionally being covered with a metallic foil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Kai Kroll, Ann M. Gronda, Mike Schugt
  • Flexible transducer supports
    Publication number: 20020183586
    Abstract: A flexible support device for use in positioning and supporting a device, such as a transducer, in contact with a structure of the ear. The support device positions the device for securing of the device with an adhesive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Mike Schugt, Clair W. Madsen, Michael E. Glasscock