Neural Interface Connector Layout for Dense Reliable Contacts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional neuromodulation devices face challenges in achieving high density neural interfaces due to the need for reliable electrical connections that can maintain contact and electrical isolation in the body for extended periods, while also allowing for the replacement or upgrade of electronics without removing the lead assembly from neural tissue.
Innovation Solution
The development of connectors with a core and supporting structure wrapped in layers of dielectric material, featuring conductive traces and a predetermined shape for alignment, which facilitate non-permanent connections between the lead assembly and neurostimulator, enabling high density neural interfaces with increased contact points and design flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the number of electrodes is increased to achieve high density neural interfaces, then the number of channels or wires needed increases, but maintaining reliable electrical connections and electrical isolation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple contact points arranged in a grid pattern, with each contact point providing independent electrical connection. The supporting structure is segmented into multiple layers (first dielectric layer, second dielectric layer) that isolate different conductive traces, enabling high channel counts while maintaining electrical isolation between channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a linear wire arrangement to a two-dimensional grid pattern of contact points on the connector surface. This dimensional change allows multiple electrodes to be connected simultaneously through a planar interface rather than requiring multiple separate wire connections, thereby scaling to high channel counts while maintaining connection reliability.
2Reliability
If the lead assembly is permanently connected to the neurostimulator to ensure reliable connections, then connection stability improves, but the ability to replace or upgrade electronics without removing the lead assembly is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with a reusable interface that allows the lead assembly to be dynamically connected and disconnected from the neurostimulator. The contact points and supporting structure maintain stable electrical connections during use, while enabling repeated attachment and detachment cycles for electronics replacement without compromising connection reliability or requiring lead removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector serves as an intermediary component between the lead assembly and the neurostimulator. It provides a standardized interface that decouples the permanently implanted lead from the replaceable electronics, allowing the connector to maintain reliable electrical connections while enabling easy replacement of the neurostimulator unit.
3Adaptability or versatility
If more channels or wires are added to connect increased electrode density, then the interface capability improves, but the complexity of maintaining electrical isolation and contact reliability increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple conductive traces are merged into a single connector structure with integrated electrical isolation. The first and second dielectric layers are combined to form a unified supporting structure that simultaneously provides mechanical support and electrical isolation for multiple conductive traces, reducing the complexity that would arise from using separate isolation structures for each channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting structure uses composite dielectric materials (first dielectric layer and second dielectric layer) that provide both mechanical strength and electrical isolation properties. This composite construction enables the connector to handle high channel counts with simplified design, as the layered dielectric structure inherently provides electrical isolation between adjacent conductive traces without requiring additional complex isolation mechanisms.
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 solution provides reliable, non-permanent connections that support high density neural interfaces, allowing for the connection of multiple electrodes, enhances clinical effectiveness, reduces side effects, and extends battery life by enabling the separation of the neurostimulator and electrode assembly.
Implementation Method 1
the second layer of dielectric material is a low temperature liquid crystal polymer that is reflowed to attach the supporting structure to the core
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to connectors for high density neural interfaces and methods of microfabricating the connectors. Particularly, aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a connector having a core and a supporting structure wrapped around at least a portion of the core. The supporting structure may have a first layer of a high temperature liquid crystal polymer, and the second layer of a low temperature liquid crystal polymer that is reflowed to attach the supporting structure to the core. Conductive traces are buried between the first layer and the second layer, and the conductive traces terminate at conductive contacts formed on a surface of the first layer. The connector may have a predetermined shape or profile, which facilitates alignment and insertion of the connector into a header of a neurostimulator.