On December 21st, 2000, Phonak, a world leader in innovative hearing systems, officially started a collaboration with Materialise for a solution that would forever change how hearing aids are designed and produced: RSM (Rapid Shell Modeling).
Before RSM, producing a hearing aid was a labor-intensive process that could only be performed manually by highly skilled technicians.
With RSM, hearing aid shells can be designed digitally and produced with AM, resulting in hearing aids that can be made faster and more accurately than ever before. In addition, the digital files can be used to create replacements, eliminating the need to repeat the design process. Around 99% of Phonak’s hearing aids are now made using RSM and AM.
Since 2000, the partnership between Phonak and Materialise has literally transformed the hearing aid industry. By expanding the possibilities for better acoustics and increased personalization, it has helped more than 10 million people and ensured a higher quality of life for those suffering from hearing loss.
Headquartered near Zurich, Switzerland, Phonak, a member of the Sonova Group, has developed, produced, and globally distributed state-of-the-art hearing systems and wireless devices for more than 60 years. The combination of expertise in hearing technology, mastery in acoustics, and strong cooperation with hearing care professionals allows Phonak to significantly improve people’s hearing ability and speech understanding and, therefore, their quality of life. Phonak offers a complete range of digital hearing instruments, along with complimentary wireless communication systems. With a worldwide presence, Phonak drives innovation and sets new industry benchmarks regarding miniaturization and performance.