Design of a sound amplification device for mild and moderate hearing loss patients in developing countries

Abstract

From this report, readers can attain a proper understanding of the prevalence, the diagnosis and management of conductive hearing loss. A decision matrix was used to identify disabling problem of “Conductive Hearing loss”. The team also conducted a hospital visit to the ENT department of Mulago hospital to get information on the prevalence of conductive hearing loss. A criterion for success for the design process was developed. The report also contains an engineering drawing section, which shows a predicted possible design of the amplification system as proposed by the team. It also introduces the requirements of Design III which involves testing of the device where the parameters chosen during testing are discussed. This chapter also outlines the objectives of testing the Eartex device. The different tests performed are discussed to detail i.e., weight, gain response, performance and battery-lifetime, alongside their background literature, protocol and results. After qualitative testing and evaluation of the physical prototype, the Eartex team focused on redesigning the prototype of the Eartex device that amplifies sound so that mild and moderate conductive hearing loss patients can be able to hear again, according to the testing outcomes. The activities undertaken in the re-design phase were discussed to include the three-dimensional drawing, fabrication and engineering analysis of the newer version of the Eartex device. The redesigned prototype was evaluated in terms of the testing outcomes and engineering analysis of its components. The Eartex device is tested in terms of; usability, weight and battery life-time in its chapter. The limitations, gaps in the design, challenges experienced and future prospects are also discussed. The conclusion also entails why the different design process activities of the Eartex device was undertaken and most importantly as a requirement of the design course. Most of the information in the report is also backed up by the references. All the other valuable information of the work done with respect to the project requirements is portrayed in the appendices.