Siemens applies nanotechnology to the manufacturing of instruments for greater durability with active wearers.
Minneapolis, Minnesota, April 6, 2006 (AudiologyNOW 2006) - Siemens Hearing Instruments announces the world's first application of nanotechnology to the manufacturing of hearing instruments. Using particles as small as 100 nanometers in size, Siemens developed an ultra-thin, anti-adhesive coating for the company's newest BTE (Behind-the-Ear) models. Containing both oleophobic and hydrophobic properties, the instruments' nanocoated housings repel water, sweat and other adherents -an issue for active children and adults who wear hearing instruments. By preventing moisture damage, nanocoating reduces moisture damage-related repairs, and ensures reliability and quality.
Pamela Burton, Director of U.S. Product Management at Siemens Hearing Instruments, explains, "As modern hearing instruments are equipped with miniaturized electronic components, wearing these tiny computers on your ears exposes the instruments to perspiration, humidity, cerumen (ear wax) and other potentially damaging substances. To address this issue, we discovered that nanocoating, an intelligent application already being used in other industries, such as medical devices, dental products, and electronics, could enhance reliability."
Moisture remains one of the top reasons for hearing instrument failure and repairs. Conventional ways to protect hearing instruments from moisture include placing a plastic sleeve over the instrument or drying the device in a special drying kit. Both options have associated costs and disadvantages to the wearer.
By adding a nanocoated surface to BTE models, moisture and perspiration bead up and roll off the surface of the instruments, instead of seeping into openings such as the battery compartment or wearer controls. Reduced moisture inside of the instrument's case means less corrosion and damage to internal components. Nanocoated housings are also easier to clean. Siemens offers nanocoating as a standard, no charge feature on its latest BTE products to ensure greater long term reliability and performance.
About Siemens
Siemens Hearing Instruments, part of Siemens Medical Solutions, is one of the leading manufacturers of hearing aids in the United States. Headquartered in Piscataway, New Jersey, the Company offers a range of innovative products, solutions and services to Hearing Care Professionals across the United States. Among its innovative products, the Company designs and manufactures a variety of digital hearing aids in all styles to improve the quality of life for individuals with hearing loss.
Visit www.usa.siemens.com/hearing for more information.
