Neural Interface Connector With Flexible Bridge for Cannula Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional neuromodulation devices face challenges in achieving high-density neural interfaces due to the need for reliable and non-permanent connectors that can maintain electrical connections for extended periods without damaging neural tissue, especially when upgrading or replacing electronics, which is complicated by the risk of removing lead assemblies from neural tissue.
Innovation Solution
The development of a connector system with multiple sections of conductive contacts that can be arranged in tandem to fit through narrow cannulas during implantation and re-arranged post-implantation to connect with a neurostimulator, featuring a main body, flexible bridges, and plugs with conductive traces and contacts made from materials like platinum and dielectric polymers, allowing for increased contact points and a smaller footprint.
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 to connect the electrodes and the electronics of the neurostimulator increases, but the reliability of electrical connections and electrical isolation in a subject body for many years deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into multiple sections including a main body, first plug, flexible bridge, and second plug. Each section contains conductive traces and contacts that can be independently configured to achieve the desired channel count while maintaining reliable electrical connections and electrical isolation throughout the assembly.
2Reliability
If the lead assembly is permanently connected to the electronics to maintain reliable connections, then the reliability of electrical connections is improved, but the ease of upgrading electronics or replacing batteries deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates a flexible bridge that allows the lead assembly to be dynamically connected or disconnected from the electronics. This dynamic connection enables surgeons to permanently implant the lead while allowing future removal and reconnection to upgraded electronics or battery replacements without removing the lead from the neural tissue.
3Length of moving object
If the connector size is reduced to enable minimally invasive implantation through narrow cannulas, then the ease of implantation is improved, but the number of contact points available deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement with conductive traces routed through multiple layers and sections (main body, plugs, flexible bridge). This dimensional approach allows numerous contact points to be packed into a compact form factor that can pass through narrow cannulas while maintaining the required number of electrical connections for high-density neural interfaces.
4Ease of repair
If the lead assembly is removed from the neural tissue to upgrade electronics, then the ease of upgrading electronics is improved, but the risk to the patient increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible bridge enables the electronics to be dynamically disconnected from the lead assembly while the lead remains permanently implanted in the neural tissue. This allows battery replacement and electronics upgrades without surgical removal of the lead, eliminating the risk of tissue damage associated with lead removal while maintaining the ability to upgrade the electronic components.
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 main body, a first plug extending from the main body, a flexible bridge extending from the main body or the first plug, and a second plug extending from the flexible bridge. This structure allows for the main body, the first plug, and the second plug to be arranged in tandem on a longitudinal axis of the main body, which enables the connector to be passed through a narrow diameter cannula. This structure also allows for the first plug and the second plug to be arranged in a spread out orientation, which enables the connector to be electrically connected with a neurostimulator.