Objectif
For many deaf patients cochlear implantation has become the standard state-of-the-art care. To achieve optimal hearing performance, cochlear implants need to be adjusted to the individual needs of the user. To date, this has to be done manually by an experienced audiologist. It involves a complex procedure requiring many hours of work in multiple sessions.
Our innovation consists in creating a new semi-automated fine-tuning method by using powerful methods from artificial intelligence. To do so, the implant behavior in response to speech sounds was first modeled mathematically, and subsequently, artificial intelligence algorithms and networks were written and validated. Our new fine-tuning method is groundbreaking in that provides systematics, eradicates unjustifiable variation, reaches preset targets and requires only minimal intervention from an audiologist.
Being clinically validated, the prototype of FOX Fitting-to-Outcome eXpert is ready for demonstration in cochlear implant centers worldwide. It is also a first and crucial step in the introduction of eHealth in the field of audiology, empowering patients to take up an active role in the frequency and the way in which their implant is adjusted. For developing countries, it paves the way to bringing modern hearing rehabilitation to otherwise underserved areas.
FOX is the result of a strong academic-industrial research partnership over the past few years. The solid scientific base of the new fine-tuning method will create the necessary trust and credibility towards audiological centers, cochlear implant manufacturers and patients. During this Phase 1 project Otoconsult NV intends to assess the technological and market-economic viability of FOX as well as its acceptance by the targeted purchasers and end-users. Part of the tasks will be subcontracted to Flanders Inshape, a competence center of the Antwerp University Management School, bringing in the necessary knowledge and expertise on business innovation.
Champ scientifique
- natural sciencescomputer and information sciencesartificial intelligence
- medical and health scienceshealth scienceshealth care serviceseHealth
- medical and health sciencesclinical medicinephysiotherapy
- medical and health scienceshealth sciencesinfectious diseasesRNA virusesHIV
- medical and health sciencesmedical biotechnologyimplants
Programme(s)
- H2020-EU.3.1. - SOCIETAL CHALLENGES - Health, demographic change and well-being Main Programme
- H2020-EU.3.1.4. - Active ageing and self-management of health
- H2020-EU.2.1.1. - INDUSTRIAL LEADERSHIP - Leadership in enabling and industrial technologies - Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
- H2020-EU.2.3.1. - Mainstreaming SME support, especially through a dedicated instrument
- H2020-EU.3.1.6. - Health care provision and integrated care
Régime de financement
SME-1 - SME instrument phase 1Coordinateur
2100 ANTWERPEN
Belgique
L’entreprise s’est définie comme une PME (petite et moyenne entreprise) au moment de la signature de la convention de subvention.