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Passive-locking implant-retained auricular prosthesis attachment

Project Overview

A client has expressed interest in improving on the current design of an auricular prosthetic - specifically a Vistafix System by Cochlear. An undesirable feature of the current design is its failure to remain attached when unexpected forces act on it. The current design relies on a magnet combined with an o-ring locking mechanism built into the sleeve of the magnet housing. Several designs have been proposed for consideration. The primary design considered the most desirable would be a semi-flexible housing for the magnet that would eliminate the need for the o-ring. The flexible nature of the housing would allow it to slide over the stage pin and snap into place where the o-ring used to lock in. By application of another force, the housing would flare and be released from the stage lock groove which would allow the prosthetic to be removed. Eliminating the o-ring is the primary concern as it produces too much friction and wear on the mechanism when routine removal and attachment occur. The client considered this design as the most ideal among two other possible designs targeting the same problem.

Team Picture

Left to Right: Taylor J. Jaraczewski, Cody Bindl, Stephen Kernien, Daniel Dissing
Left to Right: Taylor J. Jaraczewski, Cody Bindl, Stephen Kernien, Daniel Dissing

Files

Contact Information

Team Members

  • Cody Bindl - Team Leader
  • Taylor Jaraczewski - Communicator
  • Stephen Kernien - BSAC
  • Daniel Dissing - BWIG

Advisor and Client

  • Prof. Tracy Jane Puccinelli - Advisor
  • Mr. Greg Gion - Client

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