Neural Probe Electrode Structure for Simultaneous Bio-Signal Measurement and Stimulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neural probes face challenges in simultaneously measuring bio-signals and providing stimulation, as they require separate probes with different electrode sizes and impedance characteristics, making it difficult to precisely target measurement and stimulation locations within the human body.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electrode structure for a neural probe that integrates both measurement and stimulation electrodes on a single substrate, with switching elements to selectively connect these electrodes to either a measurement circuit or a stimulation circuit, allowing for simultaneous operation of both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate neural probes are used for measurement and stimulation, then electrode size and impedance characteristics can be optimized for each function, but it becomes difficult to precisely target measurement and stimulation locations at the same site
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines measurement electrodes and stimulation electrodes into a single neural probe assembly, integrating multiple electrode types that can be positioned at identical or adjacent locations. This merging approach enables precise co-localization of measurement and stimulation sites while maintaining separate electrode structures optimized for their respective functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The neural probe is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously performs both measurement and stimulation functions. The probe includes electrode arrays configured for signal recording and other electrodes configured for electrical stimulation, allowing a single device to execute multiple therapeutic and diagnostic functions at targeted neural locations.
2Productivity
If separate neural probes are used for measurement and stimulation, then each probe can be optimized for its specific function, but real-time feedback and immediate stimulation become difficult to implement
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating measurement and stimulation electrodes in the same probe assembly, the system enables direct real-time coupling between signal detection and therapeutic intervention. The close physical integration allows measured signals to be immediately processed and used to trigger stimulation without delays associated with separate probe positioning and coordination.
3Measurement precision
If a single neural probe integrates both measurement and stimulation electrodes, then precise location matching is achieved, but electrode design becomes more complex with different size and impedance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is segmented into distinct measurement electrodes and stimulation electrodes, each with optimized dimensions and electrical characteristics. This segmentation allows independent design and fabrication of electrode types with different sizes and impedance properties while maintaining their integration within a single probe structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the electrode array are designed with locally optimized properties - measurement electrodes have specific size and impedance characteristics suited for signal detection, while stimulation electrodes have different characteristics optimized for electrical delivery. This local quality differentiation enables each electrode type to perform its function effectively despite being part of the same integrated probe.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides the electrode structure of a neural probe including electrodes for bio-signal measurement and stimulation. As an embodiment, the present invention provides an electrode structure for a neural probe that measures bio-logical signals or applies stimulation, the electrode structure including: a substrate; electrodes formed on at least one surface of the substrate; and a wiring formed on the substrate and connected to the electrodes; wherein the electrodes comprise one or more measurement electrodes connected to a measurement circuit and one or more stimulation electrodes connected to a stimulation circuit.