3D Implantable Electrode Lead System for Neural Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrode lead systems are limited by their two-dimensional positioning, which restricts precise sampling and stimulation of neural structures, leading to behavioral and cognitive side effects, and have low fabrication yield and complexity, necessitating an improved three-dimensional system for fine electrode positioning and precise stimulation patterning.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional electrode lead system comprising a series of shims with alignment features and components, allowing for controlled and configurable spacing, and a method of making these shims using microfabrication techniques, enabling precise positioning and stimulation in a three-dimensional arrangement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional two-dimensional electrode lead systems are used, then the system structure is simple and fabrication is easier, but the positioning precision and stimulation selectivity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional two-dimensional electrode arrays to a three-dimensional electrode lead system. Multiple electrode arrays are stacked at different depths and angular orientations within a single lead, enabling precise targeting of neural structures in three-dimensional space. This dimensional expansion allows electrodes to access and stimulate specific brain regions that are inaccessible to planar arrays, significantly improving positioning precision and stimulation selectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lead system is segmented into multiple discrete electrode arrays, each positioned at specific depths and orientations. These segmented arrays can be independently controlled and activated, allowing selective stimulation of different neural structures. The segmentation enables modular design where each array segment serves a specific functional purpose in targeting particular brain regions.
2Productivity
If conventional two-dimensional electrode arrays are used, then the fabrication process is simpler, but the sampling and stimulation coverage of neural structures is incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
By stacking multiple electrode arrays in three dimensions at different depths and angular orientations, the system achieves comprehensive sampling and stimulation coverage of neural structures. This 3D configuration allows simultaneous recording and stimulation across multiple spatial planes, dramatically increasing neural sampling efficiency compared to conventional two-dimensional arrays that can only access a limited portion of the neural tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple electrode arrays are nested within a single lead structure, with each array positioned at different depths. This nested arrangement allows compact integration of multiple sensing and stimulation elements within a small implant footprint, enabling comprehensive neural coverage without requiring multiple separate leads or large implant surfaces.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional electrode lead systems are used, then the system is easier to manufacture, but behavioral and cognitive side effects increase due to imprecise stimulation
Solution Approach 1:
The three-dimensional electrode arrays enable highly localized stimulation of specific neural structures with precise control over electrode site positions. By concentrating stimulation current at exact target locations and avoiding adjacent non-target structures, the system minimizes off-target effects that cause behavioral and cognitive side effects. Each electrode can be independently positioned to optimize local stimulation quality while sparing surrounding tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes electrical field distribution principles to shape and confine stimulation current pathways. By controlling the spatial configuration of electrodes in three dimensions and adjusting electrical parameters, the system creates focused current fields that selectively activate target neural structures while minimizing current spread to adjacent regions, thereby reducing harmful side effects.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the invention includes an implantable electrode lead system that includes a series of shims stacked upon each other, a series of first components, and a series of second components connected to the series of first components through a series of connectors. One of the first components extends from one of the shims, and another of the first components extends from another one of the shims. The shims position the first components in a three dimensional arrangement.