Piercing the Silence: INK Fellows Raman & Lakshmanam File US Patent for Affordable Hearing Tech

Imagine a world where millions suffering from congenital hearing loss regain the gift of sound – not through expensive surgery, but with a comfortable, affordable device. This isn’t science fiction, but the inspiring innovation offered by INK Fellows Raman and Lakshmanan, co-founders of Backyard Creators.

Their story begins with a dream: to create a non-invasive, affordable hearing device that could transform lives. “We thought of doing this when we met the parents of a young boy with impaired hearing in a village close to Madurai. They had to sell their ancestral property just to afford hearing implant treatment,” recounts Raman.

The dream found fertile ground when the twins were selected for the prestigious 2023 INK Fellows Program, providing them with mentorship, resources, and a platform to showcase their innovation. Unlike traditional implant devices, which can pose problems such as limitations on taking MRIs or participating in adventure sports, the device is placed behind the ear.

The turning point came at the 2023 INK Conference in Bengaluru. Raman and Lakshmanam’s captivating presentation caught the attention of Dr. Sangita Reddy, Joint MD of Apollo Hospitals Group, who was also speaking at the conference. Impressed by the work, Dr. Reddy connected them with the Apollo Research Institute, opening doors to crucial collaboration and support.

“Our participation in the INK Conference 2023 marked a pivotal moment in our startup journey. We are profoundly grateful for the transformative impact of the INK Conference and the unwavering support from Apollo Hospitals and Apollo Research Institute,” says Lakshmanan.

Since then, the two have achieved exciting milestones:

• They were chosen as one of seven winners from among 1200 applicants for the Boeing University Innovation Leadership Development Program 2023-24, receiving a grant and technical mentorship.
• Zee, a major media network, featured their innovation on their “Puthiya India Oru Porkalam” program, propelling them onto the national stage.
• Their innovation earned the recognition of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. K. Stalin, facilitating support from the National Health Mission. This includes support for pilot studies across Tamil Nadu.

But the most exciting milestone? They’ve filed for a US Patent, an important step on the way to scale.

Raman and Lakshmanam’s journey is a testament to the impact of nurturing innovation and fostering collaboration. With the support of INK and its network of mentors and partners, their life-changing device is no longer a dream – it is on the cusp of becoming a reality that will transform countless lives.