Intra-Calvarial Cortical Stimulation With Current Steering Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brain stimulation technologies fail to effectively target irregularly folded and convoluted cortical tissues, and lack real-time tracking and adaptation to dynamically shifting neural stimulation targets.
Innovation Solution
Intra-calvarial implants with a 2D electrode array that performs current steering through the calvarial bone, using in-situ sensing to detect neural network shifts and adjust stimulation based on cortical signal analysis, generating non-circular current density profiles to match cortical anatomy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional deep brain stimulation methods are used, then deep brain structures can be targeted, but irregularly folded and convoluted cortical tissues cannot be effectively stimulated
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts stimulation parameters based on real-time detection of cortical neural network activity. The stimulation targets and parameters are adjusted dynamically to track shifting neural networks, enabling effective cortical stimulation while accommodating the irregular folded anatomy of the cortex.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes multiple parameters simultaneously including electrode configuration, current density distribution, and stimulation timing to match the complex cortical geometry. By varying these parameters, the system can target specific cortical regions despite the irregular folded structure.
2Device complexity
If static stimulation targets are used, then simple targeting is achieved, but real-time tracking of dynamically shifting neural stimulation targets is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates real-time feedback through detection of cortical neural network activity. This feedback loop enables the system to track dynamically shifting neural targets and adjust stimulation parameters accordingly, achieving real-time tracking without requiring overly complex external monitoring equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The stimulation system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting cortical activity patterns and modifying its own stimulation targets and parameters. This self-service capability enables real-time tracking of dynamic neural networks while maintaining system simplicity, as the system autonomously adapts without requiring complex external control.
3Stability of the object's composition
If circular current density profiles are used, then uniform stimulation is achieved, but matching irregular cortical anatomy is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different current density characteristics to different regions of the electrode array to match the local anatomical features of the cortical surface. By varying the current distribution locally across the array, the system can conform to the irregular folded cortical anatomy while maintaining appropriate stimulation intensity in each region.
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 precise spatio-temporal stimulation and inhibition of cortical regions, allowing real-time tracking and adaptation to dynamic neural targets, reducing health risks and expanding clinical applications beyond deep brain stimulation.
Implementation Method 1
Intra-calvarial implants with a 2D electrode array that performs current steering through the calvarial bone
Implementation Method 2
using in-situ sensing to detect neural network shifts and adjust stimulation based on cortical signal analysis
Data Source
AI summary
Systems including intra-calvarial implants and/or subdermal implants are capable of stimulating cortical regions and sensing and electrical signals is implanted within or on a calvarial bone of a skull. The implants have current steering capability to change the current density profiles applied to selected cortical regions underlying the implant. The systems may track changes in the position and/or spatial parameters of a neural network by recording cortical electrical signals and processing them to compute the values of one or more network activity biomarkers. The systems may spatially track changes detected in network anatomical position and deliver the stimulation of the cortex to the network detected position by using current steering methods.