Deep Brain Stimulation Lead With Silicon Barrier Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current deep brain stimulation (DBS) technologies face challenges in designing neurological leads that effectively combine durable materials and efficient electrode configurations to ensure reliable electrical stimulation and recording capabilities while maintaining structural integrity and minimizing ion and humidity interference.
Innovation Solution
The development of a neurological lead featuring a planar, cylindrical film with multiple layers, including polymeric, silicon-based barrier, and metal layers, where the silicon-based barrier layers prevent ion and humidity ingress, and the metal layers form electrodes and traces, with a ribbon cable extending into the lumen, enhancing adhesion and scratch resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple layers including silicon-based barrier layers are used to prevent ion and humidity ingress, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-layer composite structure consisting of a polymeric layer, silicon-based barrier layer, and metal layer. Each layer serves a specific function: the polymeric layer provides structural support and flexibility, the silicon-based barrier layer prevents ion and humidity ingress, and the metal layer forms electrodes and traces. This composite material approach resolves the contradiction by integrating multiple materials with complementary properties to achieve high reliability while managing complexity through functional specialization.
Solution Approach 2:
The lead structure is segmented into distinct functional layers, with each layer dedicated to a specific protective or conductive function. The silicon-based barrier layer is specifically segmented to include through-holes that align with electrodes, creating discrete functional zones. This segmentation allows each layer to optimize its specific function while collectively providing comprehensive protection against ion and humidity ingress.
2Strength
If a planar formed cylindrical film with multiple layers is used, then durability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a planar film structure to a cylindrical three-dimensional configuration. The planar formed cylindrical film is formed by wrapping and bonding the edges of a planar multi-layer film to create a cylindrical shape with a lumen. This dimensional transformation improves durability by providing a more robust three-dimensional structure that better resists mechanical stresses, while the manufacturing process maintains precision requirements through established film fabrication and bonding techniques.
3Reliability
If silicon-based barrier layers are used to prevent ion and humidity ingress, then electrical short circuits are reduced, but adhesion and scratch resistance must be enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material system where the silicon-based barrier layer is integrated with the polymeric and metal layers. The silicon-based barrier layer provides excellent chemical stability and resistance to ion and humidity ingress, which prevents electrical short circuits. The combination with the metal layer enhances adhesion properties, while the overall multi-layer composite structure provides scratch resistance through the synergistic properties of each material.
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
This design improves the durability and performance of DBS leads by reducing electrical short circuits and enhancing the reliability of stimulation and recording functions, ensuring effective tissue interaction and prolonged device functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The planar formed, cylindrical film can include a first silicon based barrier layer at least partially disposed over the first polymeric layer... The first silicon based barrier layer can prevent ion and humidity interference with internal structures of the formed cylinder
Implementation Method 2
The first metal layer can form the plurality of electrodes and a plurality of traces... The first metal layer can also form a plurality of contact pads disposed on the ribbon cable
Implementation Method 3
The method to form the lead can also include heating the formed planar film and molding the heated planar film into a cylinder, which defines a lumen
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure discusses a system and methods for a deep brain stimulation lead. More particularly, the disclosure discusses a stimulation lead that includes one or more silicon based barrier layers within a MEMS film. The silicon based barrier layers can improve device reliability and durability. The silicon based barrier layers can also improve adhesion between the layers of the MEMS film.