Pseudo-monopolar Neural Interface Cuff with Segmented Gap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing neural stimulation devices, particularly bipolar configurations, face limitations in effectively stimulating nerves due to undesirable effects and inefficiencies in current distribution, which monopolar configurations aim to address but with limitations in cuff geometry independence and fibrotic encapsulation issues.
Innovation Solution
A neural interface system with a lead body and a cuff body featuring a gap that provides a path of least electrical resistance, allowing current to be steered around a target anatomy, mimicking monopolar configurations while maintaining flexibility and reducing power requirements through asymmetric electrode placement and insulative materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a bipolar device configuration is used, then the device structure is simplified, but the nerve stimulation efficacy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cuff body is divided into a first section and a second section separated by a gap, creating a segmented structure that enables current steering while maintaining a relatively simple overall device configuration. This segmentation allows the device to achieve monopolar-like stimulation patterns without requiring a completely complex reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The gap between the first and second sections acts as an intermediary element that provides a path of least electrical resistance. This gap mediates the current flow between the electrodes, enabling the device to achieve improved nerve stimulation efficacy by steering current through the gap while maintaining a simplified bipolar device structure.
2Reliability
If a monopolar cuff configuration is used, then the nerve stimulation efficacy is improved, but the cuff geometry independence is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric positioning of electrodes within the segmented cuff structure creates a configuration that mimics monopolar stimulation patterns. The first electrode in the first section and the second electrode in the second section are positioned to create an asymmetric current distribution that improves nerve stimulation efficacy while the overall symmetric cuff structure maintains geometry independence.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates adjustable parameters including the position and size of the gap, electrode configurations, and stimulation parameters. This dynamic adjustability allows the device to adapt to different cuff geometries and target different nerve configurations, maintaining versatility while achieving improved stimulation efficacy through monopolar-like current patterns.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a monopolar electrode cuff with unidirectional propagation is used, then the current and charge injection are minimized, but the device flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cuff body is constructed from flexible materials that allow the device to conform to the target anatomy. The segmented structure with the gap maintains this flexibility while enabling the current steering functionality, thus preserving device flexibility while achieving minimized current and charge injection through monopolar-like operation.
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
The system enhances nerve stimulation efficacy by directing current to a large fraction of the nerve circumference, reducing power needs and improving patient tolerance, and mitigates chronic impedance increases associated with fibrosis.
Implementation Method 1
a gap between the first and second electrodes that provides a path of least electrical resistance
Data Source
AI summary
A neural interface system, comprises a lead body including a first electrode; a cuff body having a first section and a second section separated by a gap for providing a path of least electrical resistance, a second electrode positioned within the first section; and a junction between the lead body and the cuff body, wherein the gap extends around an axis of the cuff body and comprises a first area proximal to the junction.