Products
Americans insert more than 2 billion different devices every year into their ear canals representing over $1.3 billion in annual sales. These devices range from basic earplugs to more sophisticated earphones to highly complex hearing aids. While the functionality of these different devices varies tremendously, users need all of them to (1) be easy to properly insert, (2) stay securely in place, (3) remain comfortable for the duration of use, and (4) block some fraction of unwanted noise. Syzygy utilizes its proprietary mass-manufacturing technique Mnemosynation™ and unique shape memory polymers to create a revolutionary new wave of earplugs, as well as tips and sleeves for earbuds and hearing aids, called our PremEar™ product line, a true innovation in an otherwise stagnant industry.
Problem and Motivation
Most users dislike earpieces because earplugs, earbuds, Bluetooth devices, and hearing aids often fit poorly, are uncomfortable and are expensive but are nonetheless an integral part of daily life. Industrial hearing protection serves a vital function to the critical workforce that represents the backbone of manufacturing, production and heavy industry in the US. In fact the $1.5 billion US industry includes more than 2 billon earpieces manufactured per year. The industry is plagued by poor usage statistics because current commercial earplugs cause discomfort when worn for extended periods of time and earplugs do not fit everyone properly. These factors lead to the device not working as intended causing noise-induced hearing loss, the #1 occupational disease in the world according to OSHA.
Solution Product
Syzygy is launching its PremEar™ product line to provide a cost-effective solution to this large and growing problem of earpiece discomfort over long periods of use. Our first product, PremEar Plugs™, utilizes shape memory polymers to provide well-sealing, self-adjusting, heat-activated earplugs that seal all sizes of ear canals, at a specific force, to improve long term comfort.
Expansion Markets
Industrial hearing protection provides segue into earphone, Bluetooth hands-free devices, and hearing aid markets. Market validation in this first space will enable rapid penetration with selected partners in these other hearing spaces. Advances in small scale photolithography and flexible electronics on substrates with controlled thermomechanical properties represent a research area for Syzygy. These advances will enable new generations of sensing, imaging and neural interfacing tools: cortical brain probes, multi-electrode arrays, cell culture dishes, smart prosthetics and orthotics, flexible sensors and other brain computer interfaces. Other areas such as orthopedics, dentistry, ophthalmology and ergonomics represent follow-on value-add areas for our manufacturing technologies, licensing strategy and unique plastics.