Brain Implant Device with Segmented Electrode Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current brain implant devices face challenges in effectively communicating with the brain's motor and sensory cortices while maintaining wireless communication with external devices, particularly in providing precise stimulation and sensing capabilities across multiple channels with reliable power supply and data processing.
Innovation Solution
A brain implant device comprising a circular electronics package with multiple electrode arrays, a flexible conduit for signal transmission, and a hermetically sealed ceramic container with a rechargeable battery and chip stack for processing and wireless communication, utilizing platinum conductors and biocompatible materials to ensure reliable connectivity and data handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrode arrays are integrated into a single implant device to provide multi-channel stimulation and sensing, then the sensory and stimulation capabilities are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple electrode arrays (first electrode array and second electrode array) with distinct functions - one for sensory cortex stimulation and one for motor cortex stimulation. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each array's characteristics while achieving comprehensive brain interface functionality through their coordinated operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The implant device integrates multiple functions within a single unit: it provides both sensory and motor cortex stimulation capabilities, includes sensing functionality to detect neural activity, and incorporates wireless communication for bidirectional data transfer. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate implants while maintaining specialized performance.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a hermetically sealed container with rechargeable battery is used to ensure reliable power supply, then the duration of action is improved, but the volume of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rechargeable battery is hermetically sealed within the electronics package container, creating a nested structure where the battery is contained within the protective housing. This nesting approach protects the battery from environmental damage while maintaining a compact overall form factor that minimizes implant volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of a rechargeable lithium-ion battery enables extended operational duration by providing high energy density. The battery can be recharged wirelessly through the skin using electromagnetic induction, allowing the device to maintain prolonged operation without requiring larger battery capacity or more frequent replacements.
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication is implemented for data transmission between implant and external device, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of communication may deteriorate due to signal interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs wireless communication as an intermediary mechanism to transfer data between the implantable device and external equipment. This wireless link enables convenient operation without surgical connections while maintaining reliable data transmission through encoded signal protocols that can penetrate tissue and overcome environmental interference.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient sensory and stimulation functions across 32 channels, providing accurate feedback and control signals to the brain, even in cases of nerve pathway severance, with a compact and miniaturized design that supports high sampling rates and data reduction techniques for efficient data processing.
Implementation Method 1
a rechargeable battery and chip stack for processing and wireless communication
Implementation Method 2
an antenna for wireless communication with an external device
Data Source
AI summary
A brain implant device includes a housing containing communication and control electronics coupled to a conduit configured for monitoring signals from a brain's motor cortex and providing stimulation signals to the brain's sensory cortex. The brain implant device is capable of wireless communication with an external communication and control signal source by means of an antenna provided in the housing. The conduit is flexible and may contain upwards of 128 electrical conductors providing electrical connections between the device electronics and related sites on the motor and/or sensory cortex by means of a plurality of electrically conductive protuberances extending from the conduit and adapted for contact with such sites.