Implantable Electrode Integration via Nested Nonconductive Well

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing implantable medical devices (IMDs) face challenges in efficiently and cost-effectively integrating electrodes with nonconductive bodies to prevent conductive materials from coming into contact with the outer conductive surfaces, which can lead to interference and reduced functionality.

Innovation Solution

The method involves forming a nonconductive body with a well and conduit on the IMD, depositing conductive material into the well, and coupling it to the IMD's circuit through the conduit, using techniques like brazing, surface-grinding, and laser etching to ensure secure and flush integration of the conductive material.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conductive material is deposited on the outer surface of the IMD, then electrode functionality is achieved, but interference with other conductive surfaces and reduced device functionality occurs

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrode functionalityVSAvoidinterference

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive material is nested within a cavity in the nonconductive body, which is itself integrated into the IMD housing. This nesting approach isolates the conductive electrode material from external conductive surfaces, preventing interference while maintaining electrode functionality for sensing and therapy delivery.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

A nonconductive body acts as an intermediary between the conductive electrode material and the external environment. The nonconductive material prevents direct contact between the conductive electrode and other conductive surfaces, thereby eliminating interference while allowing the electrode to perform its electrical functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If conventional electrode integration methods are used, then electrode functionality is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrode functionalityVSAvoidintegration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The nonconductive body is merged with the IMD housing as an integrated component, eliminating the need for separate electrode mounting structures. The cavity for the conductive material is formed directly in the nonconductive body, simplifying the overall device architecture and reducing assembly steps.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The nonconductive body serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, electrically isolates the conductive electrode material, and integrates the electrode into the IMD housing. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby simplifying device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If conductive material is exposed on the surface, then electrode function is achieved, but contact with surrounding tissues causes interference

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrode functionVSAvoidinterference from tissue contact

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive electrode material is nested within a cavity of the nonconductive body, which is integrated into the IMD housing. This nested structure ensures that the conductive material does not directly contact surrounding tissues, preventing interference while maintaining electrode function through the nonconductive barrier.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The nonconductive body acts as an intermediary barrier between the conductive electrode material and the patient's surrounding tissues. This intermediary prevents direct contact that would cause interference, while still allowing the electrode to perform its electrical sensing and therapy delivery functions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This approach enhances the integration of electrodes within IMDs, reducing interference and improving the device's functionality while maintaining a smaller profile and cost-effectiveness.

Implementation Method 1

depositing conductive material into the well

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVapor deposition: Physical Vapour Deposition

Implementation Method 2

coupling the conductive material to a circuit of the IMD via the conduit through the bottom surface of the well

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectBrazing: Brazing

Data Source

PatentEP4103271B1Implantable medical device including electrodes formed therein

Publication Date: 2024.10.09 CARDIAC PACEMAKERS INC

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Figure 3A~3B

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to implantable medical devices. According to an exemplary embodiment, a method for forming an electrode on an implantable medical device (IMD), comprises forming a nonconductive body comprising a well having a bottom surface and at least one side surface extending from the bottom surface. The method further comprises forming a conduit through the bottom surface and inserting the nonconductive body into an opening in an external surface of the IMD. The method also comprises depositing conductive material into the well and coupling the conductive material to a circuit of the IMD via the conduit through the bottom surface of the well.