Implantable Electrode Array Reference Structure for MRI Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing implantable electrode arrays cause MRI artifacts due to metal components, leading to inaccurate localization, while thin-film implants are inconspicuous, and non-metal implants are invisible in clinical MRI, necessitating precise localization methods.
Innovation Solution
An implantable electrode array with a reference structure using magnetic susceptibility patterns, such as iron oxide nanoparticles, to create a visible contrast in MRI, allowing precise localization of electrode contacts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple electrode arrays are stacked in close proximity to achieve high channel density, then the number of recording channels increases, but manufacturing precision requirements increase due to the need for precise alignment between stacked arrays
Solution Approach 1:
The implantable array is divided into multiple electrode arrays that can be manufactured separately and then stacked. Each array is a discrete unit with its own electrodes and insulating layers, allowing independent fabrication and subsequent precise stacking to achieve high channel density while maintaining manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
A reference structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the stacked electrode arrays. This reference structure serves as a common alignment datum that enables precise positioning of multiple arrays relative to each other during assembly, thereby achieving accurate alignment without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances on each individual array
2Ease of manufacture
If the electrode array design is simplified to ease manufacturing, then manufacturing complexity decreases, but the functionality and performance of the neural interface are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array design incorporates multiple functionalities within a unified structure. The same array structure supports both recording and stimulation functions through different electrode configurations, and the reference structure serves both alignment and structural support roles. This multi-functionality maintains performance requirements while simplifying the overall design and manufacturing process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs standard fabrication parameters and materials that are compatible with existing manufacturing processes. By using conventional materials and processes with appropriate parameter selections, the design achieves complex functionality without requiring exotic manufacturing techniques, thereby easing manufacturing while maintaining performance
3Volume of moving object
If multiple electrode arrays are stacked in close proximity to reduce device size, then the overall device dimensions decrease, but manufacturing precision requirements increase due to alignment constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The compact device is segmented into multiple thin electrode arrays stacked in close proximity. Each array is a thin, discrete unit that can be precisely manufactured and then stacked to achieve high channel density in a small volume. The segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall compactness
Solution Approach 2:
The reference structure acts as an intermediary alignment feature that enables precise stacking of multiple arrays within a compact volume. By providing a common reference datum, it allows tight spacing between arrays without sacrificing alignment accuracy, thereby achieving miniaturization while maintaining manufacturing feasibility
Data Source
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AI summary
An implantable array, in particular an electrode array, suitable for being placed in anatomic tissue of a human or animal body, comprising a structure for referencing predefined distinct points of the implantable electrode array in magnetic resonance images, the structure being arranged in a predefined portion of the implantable array, the structure comprising: a plurality of patterns, each pattern having a predefined form and comprising a material having a magnetic susceptibility which is different from the magnetic susceptibility of the anatomic tissue surrounding the electrode array when placed in the human or animal body, each pattern being in a predefined spatial relationship with one of the predefined distinct points.