Segmented Nerve Cuff Electrode Durability

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional nerve cuff electrodes fail to maintain durability when used on large nerve trunks due to repeated compression and deformation during daily activities, leading to breakage and loss of functionality.

Innovation Solution

A nerve cuff electrode with segmented platinum contacts connected by durable and biocompatible conductive wires in a helical configuration, providing redundancy and embedding the wires in a non-conductive material to absorb stress, thereby increasing durability and flexibility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional nerve cuff electrodes are used on large nerve trunks, then the electrode can provide neuromodulation therapy, but the electrode breaks or disintegrates after repeated compression cycles during daily activities

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrode durabilityVSAvoidelectrode lifespan

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode contact elements are divided into multiple discrete segments rather than a continuous structure. Each segment is independently connected to the lead, allowing the segments to move and deform independently during nerve compression, preventing stress concentration and breakage of the entire electrode structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode incorporates a composite structure combining flexible substrate material with conductive contact elements. The flexible substrate absorbs mechanical stress from compression, while the conductive elements maintain electrical connectivity, creating a material system that withstands repeated deformation without failure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If the electrode structure is made rigid to maintain electrical contact, then electrical connectivity is improved, but the electrode cannot withstand repeated compression and deformation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical connectivityVSAvoidflexibility under compression

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

Different parts of the electrode have different mechanical properties optimized for their specific functions. The contact segments are designed with local flexibility to accommodate compression, while the connection points to the lead maintain sufficient rigidity for reliable electrical connectivity. This spatial variation in mechanical properties allows simultaneous achievement of both electrical reliability and compression tolerance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode structure is designed to dynamically adapt its configuration during compression. The contact segments can flex and reposition themselves under load, maintaining electrical contact with the nerve while absorbing mechanical stress. This dynamic behavior allows the electrode to transition between rigid and flexible states as needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10758723B2Nerve cuff electrode for neuromodulation in large human nerve trunks

Publication Date: 2020.09.01 NEUROS MEDICAL INC

AI summary

A durable nerve cuff electrode for achieving block of an action potential in a large diameter nerve.