How Does the Bionic Ear Work?

Originally designed in the 1970s, the bionic ear is an electronic device capable of helping certain deaf and hearing impaired individuals to hear. The device uses modern technology that simulates the natural ability of the nerves to process sound.

Function

• The bionic ear functions by stimulating the hearing nerves using electrical impulses. This direct contact produces the same effects in the ear as sound.

Features

• In order to work, an implant must be placed underneath the skin behind the ear. This is connected to an external device which is either worn on the ear like a large hearing aid or placed somewhere else on the person.

Significance

• The external device picks up sounds through a microphone. These sounds are directed to the central processor of the device, which converts the sounds into electronic signals.

Effects

• A transmitting coil delivers the signal to the implant, which directly stimulates the audio nerve. This stimulation is recognized by the brain as sound.

Considerations

• As of November 2009, 22 electrodes are connected to the fibers of the audio nerve. The electrodes are capable of stimulating the roughly 20,000 fibers to help simulate sound.