MIT spinout Lantos Technologies Inc. has received FDA clearance for a 3-D ear-scanning system that streamlines the topology measurement process for custom-fit ear devices. The system could drive innovation in the hearing aid, consumer audio, industrial noise protection, military and communications markets.

The technology, developed in the lab at MIT and tested in collaboration with audiologists and hearing device manufacturers, replaces current labor-intensive silicone impression methods, improving manufacturing efficiencies and the turnaround time for product delivery to customers, the company said. It comprises a portable handheld scanner with a video otoscope that captures images and generates a 3-D scan of the ear in less than one minute using optics and stitching algorithms. Images can be transferred electronically.

“This is a technology that will greatly improve the audiologist’s ability to map the dimensions of a patient’s ear and ear canal,” said Dr. Brian Fligor, director of diagnostic audiology at Boston Children’s Hospital. “The Lantos system makes it easier and safer to map deep into the ear canal, which is a necessity for devices that sit deeply in the ear canal, including popular, but challenging, invisible hearing devices.”

The system, which received funding for development in September 2010, will be commercially available later this year. (See: 3-D Ear Canal Scanner Gets Funding)

For more information, visit: www.lantostechnologies.com