Bent Needle Electrode Array for Easier Neuronal Signal Recording
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-electrode array devices for neuronal signal recording are costly and complex to fabricate, lacking an efficient and reliable method for producing arrays of needle elements for in vivo or in vitro applications.
Innovation Solution
A multi-electrode array device with needle elements formed from a metal layer on a substrate, bent to protrude from the plane, using semiconductor fabrication techniques, and insulated by a cover layer, allowing for easy and cost-effective production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If silicon-based micro-electrode arrays are used for in vivo applications, then reliable neuronal signal recording is achieved, but fabrication cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable polymer substrate arrays that can be easily fabricated using standard printing techniques. These single-use arrays eliminate the need for expensive, complex silicon-based micro-electrode fabrication while maintaining adequate performance for neuronal recording applications, directly addressing the contradiction between reliability and fabrication complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical silicon micromachining processes with simpler polymer printing techniques. The polymer substrate arrays are fabricated using digital printing or other standard printing methods, substituting complex mechanical fabrication systems with more straightforward printing processes, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining recording capability
2Reliability
If silicon-based micro-electrode arrays are used, then reliable neuronal signal recording is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable polymer substrate arrays that can be easily fabricated using standard printing techniques. These single-use arrays eliminate the need for expensive, complex silicon-based micro-electrode fabrication while maintaining adequate performance for neuronal recording applications, directly addressing the contradiction between reliability and fabrication complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material parameter from silicon to polymer, fundamentally altering the fabrication approach. This material substitution enables the use of cost-effective printing techniques instead of expensive silicon micromachining, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the essential function of neuronal signal recording
3Ease of operation
If needle elements are formed to protrude from the substrate plane, then effective tissue engagement is achieved, but fabrication difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates protruding needle elements directly into the polymer substrate array during the initial printing process. The needle elements are formed as integral parts of the substrate structure, with their protruding features already in place before the array is deployed. This preliminary formation eliminates the need for subsequent complex assembly steps, maintaining fabrication ease while ensuring effective tissue engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the substrate structure with the needle elements into a single integrated polymer array. The protruding needle elements are formed as part of the substrate itself rather than as separate components, combining multiple fabrication steps into one printing process. This integration maintains ease of manufacture while achieving effective tissue engagement through the protruding elements
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-electrode array device (1) comprises a substrate (10) having a substrate body (100), and a multiplicity of electrodes formed by a multiplicity of needle elements (120) arranged on said substrate body (100) and spaced with respect to each other along a plane (P). The needle elements (120) are formed from a metal layer (12) arranged on said substrate body (100), each needle element (120) comprising a contact section (121) extending along said plane (P) and a needle section (122) extending from said contact section (121) and having a tip (123), wherein said needle section (122) is bent with respect to said contact section (121) such that the needle section (122) with its tip (123) protrudes from said plane (P).