Flexible Tether Neural Interface Tool for Precise Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for implanting and removing neural interface devices are cumbersome, requiring significant skill and often causing tissue damage due to the rigidity of cables and limited flexibility, which restricts chronic implantation and data acquisition, especially in dynamic neural tissues.
Innovation Solution
A device system with a tether and end effector that allows for precise insertion and removal of micro-scale devices, featuring a tensional hook or loop for engagement, a spring-dampening system to compensate for tissue deflection, and a closed-loop feedback system to adjust speed and position according to tissue motion, enabling flexible placement and extraction without displacing the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid cables are used for neural interface devices, then structural strength is maintained, but tissue damage increases and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid cables with flexible tethers that have sufficient tensile strength to support the neural interface device weight while being compliant enough to move with dynamic neural tissue. The tether material and geometry are specifically designed to balance strength requirements with tissue compatibility, eliminating the tissue damage caused by rigid cable insertion and extraction.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional insertion tools are used, then device implantation is achieved, but significant skill is required and the process is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized insertion tool with an end effector that acts as an intermediary between the operator and the neural interface device. This tool provides mechanical coupling to the device during insertion and extraction, allowing the operator to control the process without requiring deep expertise in neural tissue handling. The tool encapsulates the complexity, making the procedure more accessible to a broader range of operators.
3Device complexity
If fixed-speed insertion is used, then insertion process is simple, but tissue motion cannot be accommodated causing device displacement or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback control system that dynamically adjusts the insertion speed based on real-time tissue motion detection. Sensors monitor tissue movement, and the control system modulates the actuator to match the tissue's dynamic behavior, preventing device displacement or damage while accommodating physiological movements such as breathing and cardiac cycles.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If chronic implantation is attempted with rigid devices, then long-term data acquisition is possible, but tissue damage accumulates restricting implantation duration
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible tether design enables chronic implantation by eliminating the tissue damage accumulation problem associated with rigid cables. The compliant tether moves with tissue dynamics over time, preventing mechanical failure and tissue injury even during long-term implantation. This allows for extended data acquisition periods without the restrictions imposed by rigid device limitations.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for manipulating devices such as micro-scale devices are provided. The devices can include a tether of various materials surrounded by a stiff body. The tether interfaces with microscale devices to draw them against the stiff body, holding the microscale devices in a locked position for insertion into or extraction out of tissue. The tensional hook and stiff body are configurable in a multitude of positions and geometries to provide increased engagement. Such configurations allow for a range of implantation and extraction surgical procedures for the device within research and clinical settings.