Elastomeric Implantable Electrode with Reinforcement for Brain Activity Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring epileptic seizures are not safe, reliable, or comfortable, and they lack effective strategies for diagnosing epilepsy and controlling seizures, particularly due to limitations in EEG recording techniques.
Innovation Solution
An electrode device with implanted electrodes and a processing unit that amplifies and processes EEG signals, featuring a reinforcement device to manage tension and elastomeric material for flexibility, allowing for secure and comfortable monitoring of brain activity, including epileptic events, with the ability to transmit data wirelessly for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If EEG electrodes are attached to the outer surface of the scalp or via surgically implanted intracranial electrodes, then brain activity monitoring capability is achieved, but safety and comfort are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary device - a flexible printed circuit board with electrodes that can be placed on the scalp surface without surgical implantation. This intermediary structure allows EEG signal acquisition while avoiding direct intracranial penetration, thus maintaining monitoring capability while reducing tissue damage risk
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible printed circuit board as a thin film structure that conforms to the scalp surface. This flexible substrate allows the electrode array to be attached externally without rigid structures that would cause discomfort or tissue damage, achieving reliable monitoring while improving safety and comfort
2Measurement precision
If multiple electrodes are positioned along the implantable body to monitor brain activity, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring function into multiple discrete electrodes positioned at specific locations along the implantable body. Each electrode captures local brain activity, and the segmented arrangement allows precise localization of seizure activity while maintaining manageable device complexity through modular electrode placement
Solution Approach 2:
The implantable body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, positions multiple electrodes, and potentially integrates signal processing capabilities. This multi-functional design achieves high measurement precision through multiple sensing points while reducing overall device complexity by combining several functions into a single integrated structure
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 device provides reliable and safe monitoring of brain activity, reducing the risk of tissue damage and power consumption, enabling effective seizure detection and analysis, thereby aiding in epilepsy diagnosis and seizure control strategies.
Implementation Method 1
An electrical amplifier is positioned in the implantable body between the electrodes and the processing unit
Data Source
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Figure 2
Figure 3a~4b
AI summary
An electrode device is disclosed comprising: an elongate, implantable body comprising elastomeric material, a plurality of electrodes positioned along a length of the implantable body; an electrical connection comprising one or more conductive elements extending through the elastomeric material and electrically connecting to the electrodes; and a reinforcement device extending through the elastomeric material. The length of the implantable body is extendible by placing the implantable body under tension. The reinforcement device limits the degree by which the length of the implantable body can extend under tension. At least one of the electrodes can extend circumferentially around a portion of the implantable body. A delivery device and method of delivery for an electrode device is also disclosed.