An integrated headpiece for a cochlear implant system includes a microphone for outputting an audio signal; signal processing electronics for processing the audio signal; and a transmitter for transmitting a processed audio signal received from the electronics to an implanted receiver. The narrow region may be self-aligned to the top of a lower polysilicon shield region in the trench or may extend the complete depth of the trench. Combination of a catalytic reactor with a gas separation unit allows to produce high purity hydrogen completely free of carbon oxides. The hub joints allow different frame configurations that are lightweight, strong, durable, scalable, expandable, and portable.