Closely Spaced Penetrating Electrode Array for Nerve Stimulation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrode arrays for recording and stimulating tissue face challenges in achieving closely spaced electrode configurations necessary for precise neurological applications, particularly in peripheral nerves, due to limitations in pitch and flexibility, which affect their ability to record and stimulate effectively.
Innovation Solution
The development of an electrode array with a plurality of electrode shanks having a pitch between 10 μm and 50 μm, encapsulated in an insulative layer, and coupled to a carrier substrate, allowing for flexible and closely spaced electrode placement, with each shank featuring a conductive core and contact pad defined by windows through the insulative layer, enabling precise recording and stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electrode arrays use conventional pitch spacing, then manufacturing and handling are easier, but the ability to resolve closely spaced nerve bundles and provide precise stimulation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode array is divided into multiple independent shanks that can be manufactured separately and then assembled. Each shank contains individual electrodes that can be positioned precisely, allowing the array to achieve close pitch spacing while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular construction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from planar electrode arrangements to three-dimensional configurations with shanks extending at angles from the carrier substrate. This dimensional change allows electrodes to be positioned in complex spatial patterns that achieve close pitch spacing while distributing structural complexity across multiple dimensions
2Stability of the object's composition
If electrode arrays are made rigid for structural stability, then positioning is more stable, but flexibility for navigating tissue and conforming to anatomical structures is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The array is segmented into multiple shanks that can move independently relative to the carrier substrate. This segmentation allows the shanks to flex and navigate tissue while the carrier substrate maintains overall structural stability and positioning
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier substrate and shank structures incorporate flexible materials and thin-film constructions that maintain structural integrity while allowing bending and conforming to anatomical structures. The insulative coatings and thin metal layers provide mechanical flexibility without sacrificing electrical performance
3Object-affected harmful factors
If electrode shanks are made thinner to reduce tissue damage, then tissue trauma is reduced, but manufacturing precision and handling difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shanks are manufactured with precise dimensions and electrode positions using advanced fabrication techniques before implantation. Pre-formed insulative coatings and precisely positioned contact pads are applied in advance, ensuring that the thin shanks meet exacting specifications without requiring complex real-time adjustments during implantation
Solution Approach 2:
The shanks use composite structures combining thin metal layers for electrical function with insulative coatings for protection and isolation. This composite approach allows the metal core to be sufficiently thin to reduce tissue damage while the composite structure as a whole maintains the manufacturing precision and handling characteristics needed for successful implantation
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes a closely spaced array of penetrating electrodes. In some implementations, the electrodes of the array are spaced less than 50 μm apart. The present disclosure also describes methods for manufacturing the closely spaced array of penetrating electrodes. In some implementations, each row of electrode of the array is manufactured in-plane and then coupled to other rows of electrodes to form an array.