Digital Method for Improved Custom Hearing Protection Equipment

The purpose of this project is to determine the feasibility of developing a portable Magnetic Resonance Imaging device to be used for the calculation of ear canal geometry. This device will significantly enhance the ability to capture ear canal geometry in a manner that allows rapid manufacturing of hearing protection devices that are custom fitted, increasing the likelihood of use by deployed Navy personnel. Additionally, the portable MRI device will allow the user to manipulate and manage captured data for archival, adjustment, and statistical study. The portable MRI device will also provide significant improvements to hearing aid manufacturers by reducing the time to manufacture hearing aids, allowing custom adjustments prior to costly fabrication processes, management of patient data without the logistics associated with mold model storage and filing, as well as statistical monitoring of patient physiology.