Flexible Implantable Electrode Array With Embedded Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cochlear implant electrode arrays are limited in the number of electrodes due to increased dimensions and stiffness caused by the need for multiple conductive wires, which restricts the granularity of frequency range and sound localization capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A flexible, non-conductive carrier with embedded electrical tracks and electrode contacts wrapped around it, eliminating the need for wires and allowing for a higher number of electrodes while maintaining a thin, flexible design suitable for cochlear insertion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the number of electrodes is increased to improve frequency range granularity and sound localization, then the number of stimulation channels is improved, but the dimensions and stiffness of the array increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separate wires are merged into a single flexible substrate that carries multiple electrical tracks. The substrate integrates the function of multiple individual wires into one unified structure, allowing multiple electrodes to be connected without proportionally increasing overall dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible substrate (thin film) to connect electrodes instead of rigid wires. This flexible film allows the array to maintain a compact form factor while accommodating multiple electrical tracks, reducing both dimensions and stiffness compared to traditional wire-based approaches.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of electrodes is increased to improve sound localization capabilities, then the number of stimulation channels is improved, but the stiffness of the array increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible substrate maintains low stiffness while carrying multiple electrical tracks. This thin film structure is sufficiently compliant to be inserted into the cochlea without causing damage, yet provides adequate mechanical support for the electrode array structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The array uses composite construction combining the flexible substrate material with electrode contacts and insulation layers. This composite structure achieves the necessary mechanical properties for cochlear insertion while supporting multiple electrodes for improved sound localization.
3Reliability
If traditional wire-based connections are used for each electrode, then electrical connection is achieved, but the number of wires increases proportionally with the number of electrodes
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual wire connections are merged into a single flexible substrate containing multiple electrical tracks. This integration reduces the number of discrete connection elements from proportional to the number of electrodes to a unified structure that supports multiple channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible substrate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support, electrical insulation, and multiple electrical conduction paths. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate wires for each electrode while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
Data Source
AI summary
An implantable electrode array comprising a flexible electrically non-conductive carrier, a flexible electrically non-conductive substrate provided with a plurality of electrical tracks. At least two of the plurality of electrical tracks run along different lengths of the flexible substrate. Each of the plurality of electrical tracks is physically and electrically connected to a respective electrode contact of a plurality of electrode contacts. The flexible substrate is immovably attached to and along a length of the flexible carrier.