Dissolvable Matrix Electrode Array for Soft Tissue Insertion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical electrode arrays for soft tissues like the brain and spinal cord lack freedom of movement and positioning after insertion, making it difficult to maintain them in desired locations over time without displacement due to bodily movements.
Innovation Solution
A medical electrode array comprising thin, flexible electrodes embedded in a dissolvable and degradable matrix that acts as an adhesive initially, allowing the electrodes to move freely once inserted and anchored in tissue, with varying dissolution rates for controlled release and stabilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If electrodes are embedded in a solid matrix for structural support, then the electrode array maintains its shape during insertion, but the individual electrodes lose freedom of movement after insertion
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix material undergoes a parameter change from solid to dissolved/degraded state after insertion, transforming from a structural support function to allowing electrode freedom of movement. This temporal parameter change resolves the contradiction between maintaining shape during insertion and enabling movement after insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix is extracted or removed from the system after serving its temporary purpose of structural support during insertion. By dissolving or degrading the matrix in situ, the electrodes are freed from the constraining structure, achieving both structural integrity during insertion and freedom of movement afterward.
2Manufacturing precision
If electrodes are held in fixed positions by a permanent matrix, then positioning precision is improved, but the ability to adjust positioning after insertion is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The dissolvable matrix provides temporary cushioning or support during insertion to ensure precise positioning, then degrades to allow subsequent adjustment. This beforehand support enables precise initial positioning while permitting later operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix transitions from a static, fixed structure during insertion to a dynamic, degrading structure after insertion. This dynamic behavior allows the system to provide positioning precision when needed and then enable adjustment when required.
3Reliability
If a solid matrix is used to anchor electrodes, then retention in tissue is improved, but displacement by corporal movements cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix performs self-service by degrading in response to the physiological environment (aqueous tissue), automatically transitioning from an anchoring function to a freedom-enabling function without external intervention. This self-degradation allows electrodes to settle into stable positions resistant to displacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix undergoes parameter changes in response to tissue environment, transforming from a rigid anchoring structure to a degraded state that allows electrodes to achieve stable, displacement-resistant positioning through natural settling.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a dissolvable matrix is used to enable electrode freedom of movement, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two functional components: electrodes and matrix. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and simplifies manufacturing, as the matrix can be applied as a separate layer or coating rather than requiring integrated complex structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix serves as an intermediary between the electrodes and the tissue environment. This intermediary role simplifies the overall system by providing a single component that mediates both the structural support and the freedom of movement functions, reducing manufacturing complexity.
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
The electrode array achieves improved freedom of movement and positioning, long-term retention in soft tissues, and ease of manufacturing, enabling effective recording and stimulation with reduced tissue injury and enhanced stability.
Implementation Method 1
The matrix acts as a glue or an adhesive keeping the electrodes in fixed positions in respect of each other until dissolved and/or degraded upon insertion of the electrode array into tissue
Implementation Method 2
embedded in a solid matrix that is dissolvable and/or degradable in an aqueous environment, such as in living tissue
Implementation Method 3
embedded in a solid matrix that is dissolvable and/or degradable in an aqueous environment
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An electrode array for insertion into soft tissue comprises a multitude of thin flexible electrodes each having a distal tip and a proximal end, wherein at least portions of the electrodes extending from their proximal ends are disposed in parallel. The electrodes are embedded in a matrix dissolvable in an aqueous solvent such as a body fluid. The matrix comprises two or more sections differing in their dissolution rates. A first section encloses a portion of the electrodes extending in a proximal direction from a distal portion thereof. A second section encloses a portion of the electrodes extending from the first section towards their proximal ends.