Layered Neural Signal Cable for Reliable Intracortical Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in accessing and decoding neuron signals to determine a user's intended actions for controlling remote devices and immersive technologies, such as prosthetics and virtual reality applications, due to the complexity of interpreting brain signals effectively.
Innovation Solution
A cable system with conductive leads and dielectric materials is designed to convey neuron signals from an intracortical microelectrode array to a processing device, enabling the decoding of intended motion and facilitating applications like motor function training, rehabilitation, and control of robotic devices or virtual entities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a cable system with multiple conductive leads and dielectric materials is used to convey neuron signals, then signal transmission reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable structure implements nested insulation layers where a first dielectric material surrounds each conductive lead individually, and a second dielectric material surrounds the entire assembly of leads and first dielectric layer. This nested configuration provides multiple levels of electrical isolation and signal protection, improving transmission reliability while maintaining a compact, integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable employs composite construction combining multiple conductive leads with two different dielectric materials having distinct properties. The first dielectric material provides immediate insulation around each lead, while the second dielectric material provides external protection and structural integrity. This composite approach optimizes both electrical performance and mechanical reliability.
2Measurement precision
If dielectric materials with precise thickness (2-10 microns) are used to surround conductive leads, then signal isolation precision is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies a thickness range of 2-10 microns for the dielectric layers rather than a single fixed value. This parameter range provides sufficient electrical isolation between conductive leads while accommodating normal manufacturing variations. The optimized thickness range balances signal isolation effectiveness with manufacturability, reducing the stringency of precision requirements.
3Productivity
If multiple alternating layers of conductive leads and dielectric material are implemented, then neuron signal conveyance capability is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable structure divides the signal transmission function into discrete segments: individual conductive leads for signal carrying, first dielectric layers for immediate insulation, and a second dielectric material for external protection. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while simplifying the overall assembly process through modular construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The second dielectric material serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides external electrical insulation, structural support for the entire cable assembly, and protection against environmental factors. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining high signal conveyance capability.
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 cable system effectively conveys and processes neuron signals, allowing for precise decoding of user intentions, enhancing research, rehabilitation, and control of devices, while providing a flexible and hermetic means for signal transmission.
Implementation Method 1
The cable can include a first dielectric material extending in the first direction/path and surrounding (or wrapping around) each of the plurality of conductive traces or leads in each direction perpendicular to the first direction/path; and a second dielectric material extending in the first direction/path and surrounding the first dielectric material
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a method for forming a cable configured to convey neuron signals. The method can include forming two longitudinal halves of the cable and bonding the two longitudinal halves together. Each of the two longitudinal halves can be formed on a respective substrate and includes a plurality of groups of conductive traces each in a respective layer of the respective longitudinal half. Each respective group of the plurality of groups of conductive traces can formed by depositing a respective insulating layer, patterning the respective insulating layer, depositing a respective conductive layer over at least a portion of the patterned insulating layer, patterning the respective conductive layer into the respective group of conductive traces. Each respective layer of the respective longitudinal half can have a width smaller than a layer formed prior to the respective layer, and can have a thickness that is within a range of 2 microns and 10 microns.