Branched Proximal Connectors for High-Density Neural Interfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional neuromodulation devices are limited by the need for permanent connections between lead assemblies and neurostimulators, which complicates upgrades and battery replacements, and lack compatible connector technology to support high-density neural interfaces with more than eight channels.
Innovation Solution
The development of branched proximal connectors with a main body and conductive traces on a dielectric material base, featuring plugs with exposed bond pads and buried conductive traces, allowing for reliable, non-permanent connections and scalable to connect multiple electrodes, enabling high-density neural interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of electrodes is increased to create high-density neural interfaces, then the ability to interface with larger tissue volumes and provide more targeted therapy is improved, but the complexity of connecting channels and wires between electrodes and neurostimulator electronics increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into a proximal portion with multiple contact pads and a distal portion with multiple plugs, allowing the channels to be segmented into manageable groups. Each plug connects to a subset of electrodes, reducing the complexity of managing all connections simultaneously while maintaining high-density interfacing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector uses a three-dimensional arrangement with multiple layers of contact pads and plugs stacked vertically. This vertical stacking in the third dimension allows numerous channels to be packed into a compact space, increasing the density of connections without proportionally increasing the footprint or complexity of wire routing.
2Reliability
If permanent connections are used between lead assemblies and neurostimulators, then connection reliability is improved, but the ability to upgrade electronics or replace batteries is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The connector transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic removable connection. The distal portion with plugs can be disconnected from the proximal portion with contact pads, allowing the lead assembly to remain permanently implanted while the connector and neurostimulator can be upgraded or replaced independently. This dynamic design maintains reliable electrical connection during use while enabling future upgrades.
3Productivity
If more channels are added to support high-density interfaces, then the therapeutic options and recording capabilities are improved, but the risk of disconnection or fracture in the connector increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector segments the high channel count into multiple smaller groups, with each plug connecting to a subset of contact pads. This segmentation reduces the mechanical stress on individual connection points and minimizes the impact of potential failures. If one plug or contact pad fails, the other channels remain functional, maintaining overall system reliability while supporting high channel counts.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to branched proximal connectors for high density neural interfaces and methods of microfabricating the branched proximal connectors. Particularly, aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a branched connector that includes a main body having a base portion of a supporting structure and a plurality of conductive traces formed on the base portion, and a plurality of plugs extending from the main body. Each plug of the plurality of plugs include an end portion of the supporting structure comprised of the one or more layers of dielectric material, and a subset of conductive traces from the plurality of conductive traces. Each trace from the subset of conductive traces terminates at a bond pad exposed on a surface of the end portion of the supporting structure.