Independent and concurrent processing multiple audio input signals in a prosthetic hearing implant

Abstract

A prosthetic hearing implant capable of independently and concurrently processing multiple audio input signals such that each audio input signal is separately utilized to stimulate the basilar membrane of the implant recipient. A prosthetic hearing implant of the present invention simultaneously receives discrete audio signals from each of one or more audio sources, generates a separate set of one or more stimulations signals for each audio signal, and concurrently applies the stimulation signals to the cochlear. Different channels of stimulation may be allocated to each audio input signal. Alternatively, different modes of stimulation may be used for each input signal. Or, in yet another example, the audio input signals may be time-multiplexed such that the input signals are applied in alternating timeslots. Or, in yet other examples, the input signals may be applied using a combination of stimulation channels, modes of stimulation, and alternating time slots. The stimulation signals may be delivered to the same or different electrodes depending on the quantity and frequency component of the received audio input signals, the quantity of available stimulation channels, and other factors.