Multimodal Electrode Array for Compact Implant Biomarker Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smart implants require multiple dedicated electrodes for each analyte measurement, which is not suitable for space-constrained form factors needed for applications like interbody spacers, limiting the ability to measure multiple biomarkers simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A multimodal electrode array that allows any electrode to function as a working, reference, or counter electrode, enabling multiple electrochemical techniques and electrical stimulation functions, reducing the number of electrodes needed and optimizing spatial utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple dedicated electrodes are used for each analyte measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multimodal electrode array where each electrode can function as a working electrode for multiple different analytes through software-controlled configuration. The electrode array is designed so that any electrode can serve as a working electrode for pH, dissolved oxygen, or other analytes, eliminating the need for dedicated functionalized electrodes for each measurement type. This universal approach maintains measurement precision while significantly reducing the number of electrodes required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically reconfigures electrode functions through a controller that can assign different measurement modes to different electrode pairs based on the analyte being measured. The measurement circuitry can switch between amperometry, voltammetry, and other electrochemical techniques by changing which electrodes serve as working, reference, and counter electrodes. This dynamic reconfiguration allows a single electrode array to perform multiple analyte measurements that would traditionally require separate dedicated electrodes.
2Measurement precision
If multiple dedicated electrodes are used for each analyte measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but the implant form factor becomes too large
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array uses a limited number of physical electrodes (e.g., 4-8 electrodes) that can be configured through software to measure multiple analytes including pH, dissolved oxygen, and other biomarkers. Each electrode can serve as a working electrode for different analytes at different times, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated electrode sets and enabling the implant to maintain a compact form factor suitable for interbody spacer applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions into a single integrated electrode array system. The measurement circuitry integrates multiple electrochemical measurement techniques (amperometry, voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy) that can be applied to the same electrode array. By merging these functions into one system rather than using separate dedicated electrodes for each analyte, the implant achieves reduced spatial requirements while maintaining the ability to measure multiple biomarkers simultaneously or sequentially.
3Measurement precision
If a unique working electrode is functionalized for each analyte, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal working electrode design where the same physical electrode can be used for measuring different analytes by changing the measurement mode through software control. The electrode array controller can configure any electrode as a working electrode for pH measurement, dissolved oxygen measurement, or other electrochemical sensing applications. This eliminates the need for complex electrode functionalization processes for each analyte while maintaining measurement precision through proper electrochemical measurement techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes measurement parameters (voltage, current, frequency) and measurement modes (amperometry, voltammetry, impedance) rather than changing the physical or chemical properties of the electrodes themselves. The controller adjusts electrical parameters and measurement configurations to enable the same electrode array to measure different analytes, avoiding the complexity of functionalizing each electrode for a specific analyte while maintaining detection accuracy through parameter optimization.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple dedicated electrodes are used for sensing and stimulation, then functional versatility is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a unified electrode array that serves both sensing and stimulation functions. The same electrodes that perform electrochemical measurements (pH, dissolved oxygen, impedance) can also deliver electrical stimulation for therapeutic purposes. The controller can switch between measurement modes and stimulation modes, configuring electrode pairs appropriately for each function. This dual-use approach enables the implant to provide both diagnostic sensing and therapeutic stimulation capabilities within a compact form factor, eliminating the need for separate dedicated electrode arrays for each function.
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
Enables simultaneous measurement of multiple analytes and electrical stimulation in a compact form factor, effectively detecting and treating biofilm-related infections like PJI and SSI, while minimizing electrode count and space requirements.
Implementation Method 1
OCP measurement includes the measurement circuitry measuring free potential through a first pair of electrodes while the controller does not apply current between the pair of electrodes
Implementation Method 2
Amperometry measurement includes the controller applying power to one of the electrodes in a second pair of electrodes while the measurement circuitry measures current resulting at the other electrode in the second pair of electrodes
Implementation Method 3
EIS measurement includes the controller applying an alternating current to one of the electrodes in a third pair of electrodes while the measurement circuitry measures current resulting at the other electrode in the third pair of electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
An implant device implantable within a body of a patient. The implant device includes a set of electrodes in an array spaced apart on the implant device, measurement circuitry configured to perform measurement modes on signals from the electrodes, a multiplexer that interconnects different pairs of electrodes in the array to the measurement circuitry, and a controller. The controller controls the multiplexer to selectively connect different pairs of electrodes in the array over time to perform the measurement modes that include at least two of: open circuit potential (OCP) measurement, amperometry measurement, and electrochemical impedance measurement.