Demonstration kit for 'Nucleus Freedom' implant system
Object No. 2007/23/9
This is the fourth generation of cochlear implant technology developed by Cochlear to restore hearing to people with severe to profound hearing loss. The device contains a number of innovative features, including being splash-proof, allowing it to be worn in the rain and wet or humid environments. The speech processor can be worn behind the ear, or on the body, and has an LCD panel allowing parents to check on their child's equipment. The device also provides improved performance in noisy situations, automatically filtering out unwanted sounds from around the user. It received an Engineering Excellence Award in 2005 and an Australian Design Award in 2006. The 'Nucleus Freedom' speech processor, released in 2006, represents the latest product from an innovative Australian company. It follows several generations of devices produced by Cochlear over 25 years with continual improvements in sound processing and reduction in size. It represents Cochlear's design strategy of making a flexible cochlear implant with sophisticated sound processing in the externally worn speech processor, allowing the recipient to take advantage of improvements in technology without surgically replacing their implanted device. Cochlear Limited was founded in Australia in 1981, based on Australian research by Dr Graeme Clark in developing the cochlear implant or bionic ear. By 2006 it had become an international leader in the manufacture and sale of cochlear implant systems.
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Summary
Object Statement
Demonstration kit, for 'Nucleus Freedom' implant system, metal / plastic / electrical components / velvet / foam / paper / cardboard, Cochlear Limited, Lane Cove, New South Wales, Australia, 2005
Physical Description
Demonstration kit for 'Nucleus Freedom' implant system, metal / plastic / electrical components / velvet / foam / paper / cardboard, made by Cochlear Limited, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, 2005 Demonstration kit consists of 'Nucleus' freedom implant system inside a bronze coloured suitcase with silver coloured handle and locks. The components of the system include a 'Nucleus Freedom' implant, a 'Nucleus Freedom' speech processor and transmitter in the behind-the-ear (BTE) configuration, a 'Nucleus Freedom' bodyworn controller, three speech processors in different colours, two silicon tubes, one Bodyworn shoe and cable, an extra cable and a 'Nucleus Freedom' information booklet. The components sit in foam cut-outs in a velvet-lined tray. The booklet sits in a clear perspex holder. The interior of the lid has a human ear and head in relief. Underneath the tray is a black Bodyworn harness and clear plastic wallet containing a belt pouch. The suitcase has a shoulder strap and keys wrapped in plastic and a foam strip to protect the outer case and handle.
PRODUCTION
Notes
Designed by Cochlear Limited, Australia, via a collaborative research and development effort involving local and overseas teams: Cochlear Ltd E&RL (Externals and Recipient Life) Research and Development Group Helbling Technik AG Ergonomidesign AB Cochlear Technology Centre (Belgium) Philips Electronics (Belgium) This is a demonstration unit designed for promotional use only.
HISTORY
Notes
This system was lent to the Museum for display in the Engineering Excellence exhibition in 2005-2006. A 'Nucleus Freedom' system was also displayed in the Australian Design Awards exhibition from July 2006 - June 2007. The 'Nucleus Freedom' system received Engineering Excellence Awards in 2005 in the categories of Research and Development, and Manufacturing Products, Facilities and Processes. The 'Nucleus Freedom' system received an Australian Design Award and Powerhouse Museum Selection in 2006, and the 2006 Engineers Australia Award for Engineering Design Excellence presented at the 2006 Australian Design Awards ceremony. In 2006 over 200 entries were received in the Australian Design Awards competition. The judging panel recommended 41 of these products receive an Australian Design Mark and of these, 21 products for an Australian Design Award. The products receiving the Australian Design Award and the Powerhouse Museum Selection were announced at a dinner and awards ceremony on 19th May 2006 at Wharf 8, Sydney.
SOURCE
Credit Line
Gift of Cochlear Limited, 2007
Acquisition Date
27 February 2007
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