Abstract: An acoustic sensor, suitable for use in a totally implanted hearing prosthesis, uses an elongate member and piezoelectric sensor to detect acoustic signals when the sensor is implanted so as to be in fluid communication with the perilymph. The sensor may be applied in systems which are not totally implanted.

Abstract: An implantable electrode array for insertion into an implantee's body. The array comprises an elongate carrier having a proximal end and a distal end. A plurality of electrodes are supported by the carrier at respective longitudinally spaced locations thereon between the proximal end and the distal end. The carrier is comprised of at least a first portion that preferentially adopts a first at least partially curved configuration and at least a second portion that preferentially adopts a second different configuration to that of the first portion. The second portion is closer to the distal end than the first portion and both the first and second portions each have at least one electrode supported thereon.

Abstract: An acoustic sensor suitable for use in a totally implanted hearing prosthesis is disclosed. The sensor uses an elongate member 36 and piezoelectric sensor 39 to detect acoustic signals when the sensor is implanted so as to be in fluid communication with the perilymph. The sensor may be applied in systems which are not totally implanted.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for economically regenerating chemical etch solutions for aluminum and the alloys thereof without the use of large, complex and expensive processing apparatus. The method of the invention can be accomplished substantially at ambient temperature thereby avoiding the necessity for substantial investment in complex temperature control instrumentation. In accordance with the method of the invention, the spent etchant which is to be regenerated is first mixed with water in a separate storage tank and is then cold filtered prior to being transferred to the reactor or regeneration vessel. This step substantially reduces contamination buildup within the reactor vessel and thereby avoids costly periodic shut down of operations for clean-up. Due to the unique nature of the regeneration process of the invention, the alumina produced as a by product of the process is of extremely high quality and is snow white in color.