Hearing with bionic ears [cochlear implant devices]

According to speech perception-rate data continuous interleaved sampling (CIS) and spectral maxima sound processor (SMSP) techniques are, and probably will be, the best speech processing strategies for multichannel electrode cochlear implant devices. From packaging and power-consumption viewpoints, today's speech processing systems are very big and are, therefore, worn on the body and consume large electric power. Next-generation cochlear implant devices would be more compact, low-power products that would be worn behind or in the ear. It is clear that mixed-signal, high-density, and low-power design techniques are required to satisfy compactness, as well as low-power consumption features to realize intelligent speech sensation for the implantees. The especially critical design consideration of power supply lifetime and efficiency might be increased by using new promising technologies like microelectromechanical systems (MEMS).