Conjoined Cuff Lead Assembly for Higher Electrode Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable electrical stimulation systems face challenges in efficiently and effectively stimulating nerves with high electrode density and conductivity, particularly in applications like spinal cord and peripheral nerve stimulation, where multiple leads are required to achieve comprehensive coverage.
Innovation Solution
A cuff lead arrangement is introduced, comprising conjoined cuff leads with male and female connection elements, such as connection fingers and slots, allowing for the combination of multiple cuff leads around a nerve to increase electrode density and conductivity, with each cuff lead having a cuff body, electrodes, and conductors, and a control module to generate stimulation signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple separate cuff leads are implanted around a nerve, then comprehensive nerve coverage is achieved, but the electrode density and conductivity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cuff leads into a single integrated cuff lead assembly by conjoining multiple cuff bodies around the nerve. The male connection element on one cuff body mates with the female connection element on another cuff body, electrically connecting multiple electrode arrays into one unified structure. This merging approach increases electrode density around the nerve while reducing the complexity of managing multiple separate lead implants.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple cuff bodies are arranged concentrically around the nerve, with each cuff body containing its own electrode array. The cuff bodies are nested in sequence, with inner cuffs closer to the nerve and outer cuffs surrounding them. This nesting arrangement maximizes electrode density in a compact space while maintaining organized electrical connections through the hierarchical structure.
2Reliability
If multiple cuff leads are used to increase electrode density, then conductivity improves, but the implantation and connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary connection features during manufacturing, specifically male and female connection elements that are pre-formed on the cuff bodies. These connection elements include alignment features and guiding structures that facilitate proper mating during implantation. The conductors are pre-routed through the cuff bodies and connection elements, so that when the cuffs are conjoined, electrical connectivity is automatically established without requiring complex post-implantation wiring.
3Reliability
If conjoined cuff leads are used to enhance electrode density, then stimulation effectiveness improves, but the structural complexity of the lead arrangement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric design in the connection elements, with male connection features on specific cuff bodies and corresponding female features on adjacent cuffs. This asymmetric arrangement creates a unique mating configuration that ensures proper orientation and alignment during implantation. The asymmetric design also allows for hierarchical conjoining, where cuffs can be attached in a specific sequence, simplifying the overall assembly process despite the multi-component structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A cuff lead arrangement includes a first cuff lead having a first cuff body; first stimulation emitters (for example, electrodes) disposed on an interior surface of the first cuff body; a first lead body coupled to the first cuff body; first conductors electrically coupled to the first stimulation emitters and extending along the first lead body; and at least one first connection element. The cuff lead arrangement further includes a second cuff lead having a second cuff body; second stimulation emitters disposed on an interior surface of the second cuff body; a second lead body coupled to the second cuff body; second conductors electrically coupled to the second stimulation emitters and extending along the second lead body; and at least one second female connection element configured to receive the at least one first male connection element to conjoin the first cuff lead to the second cuff lead.