Connector and implant device

Abstract

The application discloses a connector and an implanting device, the connector comprising an electrode mounting core rod, an array of conductive rings and a flexible electrode. The electrode mounting core rod is in a columnar structure. The proximal end of the flexible electrode is provided with an elongated sheet-shaped interface contact part, which is adapted to be attached to the outer periphery of the electrode mounting core rod. The array of conductive rings comprises at least one conductive ring, which forms an electrical connection with the interface contact part of the flexible electrode. According to the connector of the application, the electrode mounting core rod provides support for the flexible electrode, and the conductive ring in the array of conductive rings is attached to the flexible electrode, which reduces the risk of the electrical conduction being disconnected due to the slight displacement of the flexible electrode, improves the stability of the flexible electrode during use, and is beneficial to realizing the sealed conduction of the connector in the operation and improving the safety of the operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of connector technology, and in particular to a connector and implantation device. Background Technology

[0002] Flexible electrode connectors are electronic devices capable of adapting to changes in human tissue and achieving long-term stable interaction with biological tissues. They play an irreplaceable role in fields such as neuroscience research, disease treatment, and prosthetic control. Their core advantages lie in their flexibility and biocompatibility, which minimize mechanical damage and rejection reactions to human tissues.

[0003] In related technologies, flexible electrode connectors often use rod-shaped electrodes. These rod-shaped electrodes are directly inserted into spring contacts, and electrical connection is achieved through the contact between the metal tabs on the rod-shaped electrode and the spring of the spring contact. However, rod-shaped electrodes have poor sealing and conductivity in implanted devices, which can easily cause further damage to the patient. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. Therefore, one object of this invention is to provide a connector that reduces the risk of electrical conduction being interrupted due to minute displacement of the flexible electrode, improves the stability of the flexible electrode during use, facilitates sealed conduction of the connector during surgery, and enhances surgical safety.

[0005] Another object of the present invention is to provide an implantation device.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a connector includes: an electrode mounting core rod having a columnar structure; a flexible electrode having an elongated, sheet-like interface contact portion at its proximal end, the interface contact portion being fitted to the outer periphery of the electrode mounting core rod; and a conductive ring array including at least one conductive ring, the conductive ring forming an electrical connection with the interface contact portion of the flexible electrode.

[0007] According to the connector of the present invention, the electrode mounting core provides support for the flexible electrode, and at least a portion of the conductive ring array is in contact with the flexible electrode, reducing the risk of electrical conduction being interrupted due to minor displacement of the flexible electrode, improving the stability of the flexible electrode during use, facilitating the sealing and conduction of the connector during surgery, and improving the safety of the surgery.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the interface contact portion of the flexible electrode includes conductive contacts, which are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the distal end of the flexible electrode is provided with an electrode site portion, the electrode site portion is provided with an electrode site, the electrode site is electrically connected with the conductive contact, and the electrode site can apply electrical stimulation to the target tissue and / or collect the potential signal of the target tissue.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the conductive ring array includes an outer conductive ring, which is sleeved on the side surface of the flexible electrode away from the electrode mounting mandrel, and the flexible electrode is in radial contact with at least a portion of the outer conductive ring on the electrode mounting mandrel.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the conductive ring array includes an inner conductive ring disposed between the electrode mounting mandrel and the flexible electrode, and the flexible electrode is in radial contact with at least a portion of the inner conductive ring on the electrode mounting mandrel.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a first opening is formed on the inner conductive ring, the first opening extending along the axial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a second opening is formed on the outer conductive ring, the second opening extending axially along the electrode mounting mandrel.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there are multiple outer conductive rings and multiple conductive contacts, and the multiple outer conductive rings and multiple conductive contacts correspond one-to-one to form multiple outer conductive ring / conductive contact pairs, and the multiple outer conductive ring / conductive contact pairs are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core rod.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there are multiple inner conductive rings and multiple conductive contacts, and the multiple inner conductive rings and multiple conductive contacts correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection to constitute multiple inner conductive ring / conductive contact pairs; the multiple inner conductive ring / conductive contact pairs are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core rod.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the conductive ring array further includes a plurality of inner conductive rings, wherein the plurality of inner conductive rings and the plurality of outer conductive rings correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the electrode mounting mandrel further includes a plurality of connecting wires, and the plurality of connecting wires and the plurality of inner conductive rings correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a first insulating layer is provided on the surface of the electrode mounting mandrel, and the inner conductive ring is disposed on the side of the first insulating layer away from the electrode mounting mandrel; and / or,

[0019] The flexible electrode has a second insulating layer on its surface, and the second insulating layer does not cover the conductive contact.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the present invention, there are multiple outer conductive rings, multiple inner conductive rings and multiple conductive contacts, and the multiple outer conductive rings, multiple inner conductive rings and multiple conductive contacts correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection to constitute multiple conductive ring / conductive contact pairs; the multiple conductive ring / conductive contact pairs are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core rod.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the present invention, a first mounting groove is formed on the electrode mounting mandrel, the first mounting groove extends radially along the electrode mounting mandrel, and the inner conductive ring is fitted within the first mounting groove; in the radial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel, the outer peripheral surface of the inner conductive ring protrudes beyond the outer peripheral surface of the electrode mounting mandrel.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the connector further includes: a plurality of first insulating elements, each of the first insulating elements being disposed between two adjacent outer conductive rings.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the outer surface of each of the first insulating elements is flush with the outer surface of the outer conductive ring in the axial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the connector further includes: a second insulating member disposed within the second opening, wherein the outer surface of the second insulating member is flush with the outer surface of the outer conductive ring in the axial direction of the electrode mounting core.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the electrode mounting mandrel is insulated from the conductive contact of the flexible electrode; the electrode mounting mandrel is insulated from the conductive ring array.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least one surface of the electrode mounting mandrel is made of an insulating material.

[0027] An implantation device according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a connector according to the first aspect of the present invention described above.

[0028] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the engagement of the electrode mounting core and the inner conductive ring of the connector according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the axial length of the connector along the electrode mounting core according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure label:

[0036] 100: Connector;

[0037] 1: Electrode mounting mandrel; 11: First mounting groove; 2: Inner conductive ring; 21: First opening; 3: Flexible electrode; 31: Conductive contact; 4: Outer conductive ring; 41: Second opening. Detailed Implementation

[0038] The following is for reference. Figures 1-5 A connector 100 according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention is described.

[0039] like Figures 1-5 As shown, the connector 100 according to a first aspect embodiment of the present invention includes an electrode mounting core 1, a conductive ring array, and a flexible electrode 3.

[0040] Specifically, the electrode mounting mandrel 1 has a columnar structure. The proximal end of the flexible electrode 3 is provided with an elongated, sheet-like interface contact portion, which is adapted to fit against the outer periphery of the electrode mounting mandrel 1; and the conductive ring array includes at least one conductive ring, which forms an electrical connection with the interface contact portion of the flexible electrode 3.

[0041] For example, in Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 In the example, the electrode mounting mandrel 1 serves as the mounting carrier for the conductive ring array and the flexible electrode 3. It supports the conductive ring array and the flexible electrode 3 and also ensures the mounting stability of the conductive ring array and the flexible electrode 3. The electrode mounting mandrel 1 has a circular cross-section, which reduces the processing difficulty of the electrode mounting mandrel 1, and also reduces the processing difficulty of the conductive ring array and the flexible electrode 3. This also reduces the difficulty of setting the conductive ring array and the flexible electrode 3 on the outer periphery of the electrode mounting mandrel 1, which helps to improve the assembly efficiency of the connector 100.

[0042] The structure of the slender, sheet-like interface contact portion of the proximal end of the flexible electrode 3, which fits into the electrode mounting core 1, helps to improve the flexibility of the flexible electrode 3, reduce mechanical damage to human tissue, reduce biological rejection, and ensure signal transmission stability. At the same time, it can improve the adaptability of the flexible electrode 3 to human tissue and the reliability of long-term implantation. It also facilitates the placement of the flexible electrode 3 on the outer periphery of the electrode mounting core 1, which is beneficial for the sealing and conduction of the connector 100.

[0043] The flexible electrode 3 is attached to the conductive ring of the conductive ring array, which helps to reduce the risk of electrical conduction being interrupted due to the slight displacement of the flexible electrode 3, and improves the stability of the flexible electrode 3 during use. At the same time, when the connector 100 is in operation, it is conducive to the electrical conduction between the conductive ring and the flexible electrode 3, which helps to improve the sealing conductivity of the connector 100, thereby facilitating the stable operation of the connector 100 and improving the safety of the surgery.

[0044] In actual use, the electrode mounting core 1 in connector 100 can be installed into the implantation device to achieve a sealed conductive connection during the operation. When current passes through, electrical conductivity is formed between the conductive ring and the flexible electrode 3, which helps to ensure the stable operation of connector 100 and improves the safety of the operation.

[0045] According to the connector 100 of the present invention, the electrode mounting core 1 provides support for the flexible electrode 3, and the conductive rings in the conductive ring array are in contact with the flexible electrode 3, reducing the risk of electrical conduction being interrupted due to small displacement of the flexible electrode 3, improving the stability of the flexible electrode 3 during use, which is conducive to achieving sealed conduction of the connector 100 during surgery, and improving the safety of the surgery.

[0046] According to some embodiments of the present invention, with reference to Figure 2 The interface contact portion of the flexible electrode 3 includes conductive contacts 31, which are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1. A conductive ring and the conductive contacts 31 of the flexible electrode 3 are abutted radially on the electrode mounting core 1, facilitating conduction between the conductive ring and the flexible electrode 3 when the connector 100 is activated. The arrangement of one conductive contact 31 along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1, and / or multiple conductive contacts 31, ensures normal electrical conduction of the flexible electrode 3 while reducing the use of conductive materials, thus helping to control the cost of the flexible electrode 3.

[0047] According to some embodiments of the present invention, with reference to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5The flexible electrode 3 includes an electrode site portion (not shown) at its distal end. The electrode site portion has electrode points, which are electrically connected to a conductive contact 31. The electrode points can apply electrical stimulation to the target tissue and / or collect the potential signal of the target tissue. Along the axial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel 1, the electrode sites at the distal end of the flexible electrode 3 are adapted to extend to the target tissue to apply electrical stimulation to the target tissue and / or collect the potential signal of the target tissue. In actual use, the distal end of the flexible electrode 3 electrically stimulates and / or collects the potential signal of the target tissue through the electrode sites. The aforementioned electrical stimulation indication and / or electrical signal are transmitted between the flexible electrode 3 and the conductive ring array electrically connected thereto through the conductive contact 31, thereby realizing the transmission of the electrical stimulation indication and / or electrical signal between the target tissue and the implantation device.

[0048] This ensures the effectiveness and stability of electrical conduction during the use of connector 100. When the distal end of flexible electrode 3 is inserted into the human body, the flexibility and biocompatibility of flexible electrode 3, as well as its relatively stable sealing and conduction, help reduce mechanical damage to human tissue, reduce biological rejection, ensure signal transmission stability, and improve the compatibility of flexible electrode 3 with human tissue and long-term implantation reliability.

[0049] The flexible electrode 3 also includes a lead wire connection section along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1, the lead wire connection section including at least one lead wire, the lead wire being electrically connected to the conductive contact 31 at the proximal end and the electrode site at the distal end, respectively.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the present invention, with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The conductive ring array includes an outer conductive ring 4, which is sleeved on the surface of the flexible electrode 3 away from the electrode mounting core 1. The flexible electrode 3 is radially abutted against at least a portion of the outer conductive ring 4. This configuration allows the outer conductive ring 4 to structurally limit the flexible electrode 3 on the side away from the electrode mounting core 1, reducing displacement of the flexible electrode 3 and thus improving the structural stability and electrical conductivity reliability of the connector 100.

[0051] Furthermore, referring to Figure 2 The conductive ring array includes an inner conductive ring 2, which is disposed between the electrode mounting core 1 and the flexible electrode 3. The flexible electrode 3 is in radial contact with at least a portion of the inner conductive ring 2. This arrangement allows electrical conduction to be achieved through the inner conductive ring 2 on the side of the flexible electrode 3 facing the electrode mounting core 1, thereby further ensuring the electrical conduction of the connector 100 and contributing to its normal operation.

[0052] Both the inner conductive ring 2 and the outer conductive ring 4 are made of conductive material.

[0053] Furthermore, referring to Figure 2 The inner conductive ring 2 has a first opening 21 that extends axially along the electrode mounting core 1. This first opening 21 simplifies the assembly and disassembly of the inner conductive ring 2, allows for flexible adaptation to dimensional deviations of the electrode mounting core 1, and offers greater versatility, thus reducing the maintenance cost of the connector 100. Optionally, the first opening 21 on the inner conductive ring 2 is spaced apart from the conductive contact 31, ensuring that as much area of ​​the inner conductive ring 2 as possible is in contact with the conductive contact 31. This results in a sufficient conductive path between the inner conductive ring 2 and the flexible electrode 3, improving current transmission stability, reducing contact resistance, and minimizing energy loss.

[0054] According to other embodiments of the present invention, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A second opening 41 is formed on the outer conductive ring 4, extending axially along the electrode mounting core 1. The outer conductive ring 4 achieves rapid positioning and installation outside the flexible electrode 3 through elastic deformation at the position of the second opening 41. The second opening 41 springs back and fixes itself, easily forming a stable fit outside the flexible electrode 3. This achieves rapid fixing, precise positioning, and convenient maintenance of the outer conductive ring 4, while also being compatible with structural errors, ensuring the stability and sealing of the outer conductive ring 4.

[0055] The second opening 41 and the first opening 21 are radially spaced apart on the electrode mounting core 1. This helps to increase the axial force balance of the connector 100 on the electrode mounting core 1, avoid local stress concentration, thereby extending the service life of the first connector 100, and improving the motion accuracy and operational reliability of the connector 100.

[0056] According to some specific embodiments of the present invention, there are multiple outer conductive rings 4 and multiple conductive contacts 31. In the description of the present invention, "multiple" means two or more. Multiple outer conductive rings 4 and multiple conductive contacts 31 correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection, constituting multiple outer conductive ring / conductive contact pairs; the multiple outer conductive ring / conductive contact pairs are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1. That is, any one outer conductive ring 4 and its corresponding conductive contact 31 form an outer conductive ring / conductive contact pair. The regular arrangement of multiple outer conductive ring / conductive contact pairs along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1 helps to ensure uniform and stable transmission of electrical stimulation signals and / or potential signals, and improves the safety of the connector 100.

[0057] Furthermore, the conductive ring array also includes multiple inner conductive rings 2, which correspond one-to-one with multiple outer conductive rings 4 to form an electrical connection. Thus, the correspondence and cooperation between the multiple inner conductive rings 2 and the multiple outer conductive rings 4 improves the stability and reliability of the electrical connection between the flexible electrode 3 and the conductive ring array. Simultaneously, the cooperation between the inner conductive rings 2 and the outer conductive rings 4 further enhances the stability of the flexible electrode 3's placement, thereby improving the reliability of the connector 100 and extending its service life.

[0058] Furthermore, the electrode mounting mandrel 1 also includes multiple connecting wires (not shown in the figure), which correspond one-to-one with multiple inner conductive rings 2 to form an electrical connection. The multiple connecting wires of the electrode mounting mandrel 1 can cooperate with the conductive rings 2 to achieve an electrical connection, which helps to reduce the volume occupied by the connecting parts of the conductive rings 2 and the corresponding components in the implantation device, thereby improving the applicability of the connector 100. At the same time, it helps to further improve the sealing and conductivity of the connector 100, and further improve the safety of the connector 100 in use.

[0059] According to other specific embodiments of the present invention, a first insulating layer is provided on the surface of the electrode mounting core 1, and the inner conductive ring 2 is provided on the side of the first insulating layer away from the electrode mounting core 1. The provision of the first insulating layer facilitates the spacing and insulation between the electrode mounting core 1 and the conductive ring 2, thereby avoiding electrical interference between the electrode mounting core 1 and the conductive ring 2, and improving the reliability of the connector 100.

[0060] The flexible electrode 3 has a second insulating layer on its surface, and the second insulating layer does not cover the conductive contact 31. That is to say, the surface of the flexible electrode 3, except for the conductive contact 31, can be covered with the second insulating layer, thereby helping to prevent the aforementioned other parts of the flexible electrode 3 from interfering with the normal electrical connection between the conductive contact 31 and the conductive ring 2.

[0061] According to further embodiments of the present invention, there are multiple inner conductive rings 2 and multiple conductive contacts 31. These multiple inner conductive rings 2 and multiple conductive contacts 31 correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection, constituting multiple inner conductive ring / conductive contact pairs. These multiple inner conductive ring / conductive contact pairs are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1. That is, any inner conductive ring 2 and its corresponding conductive contact 31 constitute an inner conductive ring / conductive contact pair. The regular arrangement of multiple inner conductive ring / conductive contact pairs along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1 also helps to ensure the uniform and stable transmission of electrical stimulation signals and / or potential signals, thereby improving the safety of the connector 100.

[0062] According to further embodiments of the present invention, with reference to Figure 2There are multiple inner conductive rings 2, outer conductive rings 4, and conductive contacts 31. These multiple inner conductive rings 2, multiple outer conductive rings 4, and multiple conductive contacts 31 correspond one-to-one, forming multiple conductive ring / conductive contact pairs. These multiple conductive ring / conductive contact pairs are spaced apart along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core rod 1. For example, in... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the example, connector 100 includes eight corresponding inner conductive rings 2, eight outer conductive rings 4, and eight conductive contacts 31, forming eight axially spaced pairs of conductive rings / conductive contacts along the electrode mounting mandrel 1. This arrangement avoids signal crosstalk between adjacent pairs of conductive rings / conductive contacts, which helps improve the accuracy of electrical conduction for each pair of conductive rings / conductive contacts and enhances the safety of connector 100 in use.

[0063] Multiple inner conductive rings 2, multiple outer conductive rings 4, and multiple conductive contacts 31 are arranged in an array along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1. This increases the regularity of the arrangement of the multiple inner conductive rings 2, multiple outer conductive rings 4, and multiple conductive contacts 31, which is beneficial to the fabrication and assembly of the connector 100.

[0064] Furthermore, referring to Figure 5 In the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1, the length of each conductive contact 31 is greater than or equal to the length of each inner conductive ring 2. This arrangement helps to ensure that each inner conductive ring 2 can stably and reliably fit with a conductive contact 31, thereby helping to ensure a stable electrical connection between the conductive contact 31 and the inner conductive ring 2 during the use of the connector 100.

[0065] Reference Figure 5 In the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1, the length of each outer conductive ring 4 is greater than or equal to the length of each conductive contact 31. This arrangement helps to ensure that each conductive contact 31 can stably and reliably fit with an outer conductive ring 4, thereby helping to ensure a stable electrical connection between the conductive contact 31 and the outer conductive ring 4 during the use of the connector 100.

[0066] According to some embodiments of the present invention, with reference to Figure 1 and Figure 2 A first mounting groove 11 is formed on the electrode mounting mandrel 1, extending radially along the electrode mounting mandrel 1. The inner conductive ring 2 fits within the first mounting groove 11. The first mounting groove 11 on the electrode mounting mandrel 1 provides a mounting position for the inner conductive ring 2, facilitating its positioning and limiting. This helps ensure that the inner conductive ring 2 corresponds to the conductive contact 31 of the flexible electrode 3, achieving a stable and reliable fit, and thus ensuring a stable electrical connection of the connector 100 during use.

[0067] In the radial direction of the electrode mounting core 1, the outer peripheral surface of the inner conductive ring 2 protrudes beyond the outer peripheral surface of the electrode mounting core 1. This allows the inner conductive ring 2 to protrude towards the flexible electrode 3, which helps ensure the contact between the conductive contact 31 of the flexible electrode 3 and the inner conductive ring 2, thereby facilitating a stable electrical connection between the inner conductive ring 2 and the conductive contact 31 during the operation of the connector 100.

[0068] For example, during the preparation process, a first mounting groove 11 can be formed by slotting the surface of the electrode mounting mandrel 1. Then, the inner conductive ring 2 can be mechanically deformed and fitted into the first mounting groove 11 to complete the mounting of the inner conductive ring 2 on the electrode mounting mandrel 1. Then, the conductive contact 31 of the flexible electrode 3 is aligned with the inner conductive ring 2 to complete the engagement between the flexible electrode 3 and the inner conductive ring 2. Finally, the outer conductive ring 4 is aligned with the conductive contact 31 of the flexible electrode 3 and the inner conductive ring 2, and the conductive contact 31 of the flexible electrode 3 is sandwiched between the inner conductive ring 2 and the outer conductive ring 4. Optionally, the conductive contact 31 of the flexible electrode 3, the inner conductive ring 2, and the outer conductive ring 4 can be bonded by welding to ensure electrical conductivity during use.

[0069] According to further embodiments of the present invention, the connector 100 further includes a plurality of first insulating elements (not shown), each first insulating element being disposed between two adjacent outer conductive rings 4. The two adjacent outer conductive rings 4 are spaced apart along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1. The placement of the first insulating elements between the two adjacent outer conductive rings 4 improves the insulation of the plurality of outer conductive rings 4. This avoids signal crosstalk between adjacent outer conductive rings 4, which helps improve the accuracy of the conductive signal of each outer conductive ring 4. Simultaneously, when the connector 100 is operating, different outer conductive rings 4 may be loaded with different potentials. If there is no insulation between adjacent outer conductive rings 4, a cross-contact current loop will be formed: on the one hand, the stimulation current may bypass the target tissue and directly short-circuit through the adjacent outer conductive rings 4, causing a sharp drop in stimulation efficiency, such as insufficient nerve stimulation intensity, resulting in treatment failure; on the other hand, abnormal current may flow through unrelated tissues, causing local electrothermal damage. The first insulating elements between adjacent outer conductive rings 4 can block abnormal current, ensuring that the current only forms an effective loop, thus improving the safety of the connector 100.

[0070] Furthermore, the outer surface of each first insulating element is flush with the outer surface of the outer conductive ring 4 along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1. This helps to improve the structural integrity of the connector 100, maintain the stability of the arrangement of the multiple outer conductive rings 4, and ensure the long-term stability of the connector 100's performance.

[0071] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the connector 100 further includes a second insulating member (not shown in the figure), which is disposed within the second opening 41, and whose outer surface is flush with the outer surface of the outer conductive ring 4 in the axial direction of the electrode mounting core 1. The second insulating member within the second opening 41 avoids the risk of radial movement of the outer conductive ring 4 along the electrode mounting core 1, thereby facilitating the contact between the inner conductive ring 2 and the conductive contact 31, and between the conductive contact 31 and the outer conductive ring 4, thus ensuring the electrical connection stability and reliability of the connector 100 during use. Simultaneously, the flushness of the outer surface of the second insulating member with the outer surface of the outer conductive ring 4 further enhances the structural integrity of the connector 100.

[0072] The first insulating component and the second insulating component can be independently selected from epoxy resin and silicone, etc., which can effectively increase the flatness of the connector 100 on the outer surface of the outer conductive ring 4.

[0073] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the electrode mounting core 1 and the conductive contact 31 of the flexible electrode 3 are insulated from each other. This helps to avoid electrical interference between the electrode mounting core 1 and the conductive contact 31 of the flexible electrode 3, and contributes to the stable use of the connector 100.

[0074] The electrode mounting mandrel 1 is insulated from the conductive ring array. This helps to avoid electrical interference between the electrode mounting mandrel 1 and the conductive ring array, contributing to the stable use of the connector 100.

[0075] According to some embodiments of the present invention, at least one surface of the electrode mounting core 1 is made of an insulating material. That is, the electrode mounting core 1 can be an insulating rod or have a non-insulating center, with only the surface being an insulating material. As a carrier for the conductive ring array and the flexible electrode 3, the electrode mounting core 1, being an insulating rod, helps to avoid electrical interference between the electrode mounting core 1 and the conductive ring array and the flexible electrode 3, thereby ensuring the safety of the connector 100 in use and guaranteeing the operational stability and reliability of the connector 100.

[0076] An implantation device (not shown) according to a second aspect embodiment of the present invention includes a connector 100 according to the first aspect embodiment described above.

[0077] According to the implantable device of the present invention, the implantable device needs to be in the human body fluid environment for a long time. The sealing of the flexible electrode 3 is the core barrier against the invasion of body fluid. The sealing and conductive connection of the implantable device is improved by using the above-mentioned connector 100. On the one hand, it can block the invasion of body fluid and avoid the functional failure of the implantable device; on the other hand, it helps to reduce biological rejection reaction and improve the long-term biocompatibility of the implantable device; furthermore, it helps to extend the service life of the implantable device and reduce clinical maintenance costs.

[0078] Other configurations and operations of the connector 100 and implantation device according to embodiments of the present invention are known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.

[0079] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "inner", "outer", "axial", "radial", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this invention.

[0080] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0081] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example.

[0082] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A connector (100), characterized in that, include: Electrode mounting core (1), wherein the electrode mounting core (1) is a columnar structure; The flexible electrode (3) has a long, thin, sheet-like interface contact portion at its proximal end, which is adapted to fit against the outer periphery of the electrode mounting core (1). as well as A conductive ring array, the conductive ring array including at least one conductive ring, the conductive ring forming an electrical connection with the interface contact portion of the flexible electrode (3); The conductive ring array includes an outer conductive ring (4) and / or an inner conductive ring (2). The outer conductive ring (4) is sleeved on the side surface of the flexible electrode (3) away from the electrode mounting mandrel (1), and the flexible electrode (3) is in radial contact with at least a portion of the outer conductive ring (4) on the electrode mounting mandrel (1). The inner conductive ring (2) is disposed between the electrode mounting mandrel (1) and the flexible electrode (3), and the flexible electrode (3) is in radial contact with at least a portion of the inner conductive ring (2) on the electrode mounting mandrel (1).

2. The connector (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The interface contact portion of the flexible electrode (3) includes conductive contacts (31), which are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core (1).

3. The connector (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flexible electrode (3) has an electrode site at its distal end. The electrode site is provided with an electrode point, and the electrode point is electrically connected to the conductive contact (31). The electrode point can apply electrical stimulation to the target tissue and / or collect the potential signal of the target tissue.

4. The connector (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first opening (21) is formed on the inner conductive ring (2), and the first opening (21) extends along the axial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel (1).

5. The connector (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A second opening (41) is formed on the outer conductive ring (4), and the second opening (41) extends along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core (1).

6. The connector (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, There are multiple outer conductive rings (4) and multiple conductive contacts (31). The multiple outer conductive rings (4) and multiple conductive contacts (31) correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection, constituting multiple pairs of outer conductive rings / conductive contacts. Multiple outer conductive rings / conductive contacts are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel (1).

7. The connector (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The multiple inner conductive rings (2) and the multiple outer conductive rings (4) correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection.

8. The connector (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The electrode mounting core (1) also includes multiple connecting lines, and the multiple connecting lines and the multiple inner conductive rings (2) correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection.

9. The connector (100) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The electrode mounting mandrel (1) has a first insulating layer on its surface, and the inner conductive ring (2) is located on the side of the first insulating layer away from the electrode mounting mandrel (1); and / or, The flexible electrode (3) has a second insulating layer on its surface, and the second insulating layer does not cover the conductive contact (31).

10. The connector (100) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, There are multiple inner conductive rings (2) and multiple conductive contacts (31). The multiple inner conductive rings (2) and multiple conductive contacts (31) correspond one-to-one and form an electrical connection, constituting multiple inner conductive ring / conductive contact pairs. The multiple inner conductive ring / conductive contact pairs are arranged along the axial direction of the electrode mounting core rod (1).

11. The connector (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A first mounting groove (11) is formed on the electrode mounting core (1), the first mounting groove (11) extends radially along the electrode mounting core (1), and the inner conductive ring (2) is fitted in the first mounting groove (11). In the radial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel (1), the outer peripheral surface of the inner conductive ring (2) protrudes beyond the outer peripheral surface of the electrode mounting mandrel (1).

12. The connector (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: Multiple first insulating elements, each of which is disposed between two adjacent outer conductive rings (4).

13. The connector (100) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The outer surface of each of the first insulating elements is flush with the outer surface of the outer conductive ring (4) along the axial direction of the electrode mounting mandrel (1).

14. The connector (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: The second insulating element is disposed in the second opening (41), and the outer surface of the second insulating element is flush with the outer surface of the outer conductive ring (4) in the axial direction of the electrode mounting core (1).

15. The connector (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The electrode mounting core (1) is insulated from the conductive contact (31) of the flexible electrode (3); The electrode mounting core (1) is insulated from the conductive ring array.

16. The connector (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one surface of the electrode mounting core (1) is made of insulating material.

17. An implantable device, characterized in that, Includes the connector (100) as described in any one of claims 1-16.

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