Segmented Nerve Probe Array Minimizing Bundle Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nerve electrode structures, such as cuff and intra-fascicular electrodes, cause damage and pressure on nerves, limit signal acquisition density, and are not suitable for long-term transplantation due to material constraints and invasiveness.
Innovation Solution
A nerve probe array with a flexible connector and probes arranged along its length, featuring a hook structure for secure insertion and multiple electrodes at different locations to minimize damage and enhance signal acquisition, allowing for high-density nerve signal collection and stimulation without causing chronic pain or disrupting blood circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a cuff electrode with a flexible body is used to surround the nerve, then the electrode can collect nerve signals, but it causes pressure on the nerve bundle which disturbs blood circulation and causes chronic pain
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode structure is divided into multiple separate probes (e.g., 4-8 probes) distributed around the nerve circumference, each probe independently penetrating the nerve epineurium. This segmentation allows signal collection from multiple locations without requiring a continuous cuff structure that exerts pressure on the entire nerve bundle.
Solution Approach 2:
The probes are designed with flexible, thin structures that can penetrate and conform to the nerve surface. The flexible material allows the probes to adapt to nerve movements and reduces the mechanical burden on the nerve, minimizing pressure-related damage while maintaining electrical contact for signal collection.
2Reliability
If a polymer body is used to fix the electrode around the nerve, then the electrode can be secured, but it prevents oxygen and water passage causing pain and nerve necrosis
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode probes utilize porous or mesh-like structures that allow oxygen and water to pass through while maintaining mechanical integrity and electrical contact. This porosity ensures adequate nutrient and oxygen supply to the nerve tissue, preventing necrosis and pain while securing the electrode in place.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode structure combines conductive materials with biocompatible, breathable materials that allow gas and fluid exchange. This composite approach maintains reliable electrical contact for signal collection while permitting oxygen and water passage to prevent tissue damage.
3Device complexity
If electrodes are placed outside the nerve bundle, then the structure is simple, but signals inside the nerve cannot be properly read and nerve fiber level selectivity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple probes are distributed around the nerve circumference, each penetrating to contact the nerve epineurium and underlying structures. This segmented arrangement enables selective recording from different nerve fascicles or fiber types while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode probes extend in the radial direction from the nerve surface into the epineurium, transitioning from a purely external cuff configuration to a semi-intraneural arrangement. This dimensional change enables direct contact with nerve structures for improved signal quality while avoiding complete nerve transection.
4Measurement precision
If a transverse intra-fascicular electrode is used to insert into the nerve, then nerve signal reading is improved, but it is not easy to position the electrode and fixation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode system uses multiple probes (e.g., 4-8 probes) distributed around the nerve circumference rather than a single deep-insertion electrode. Each probe penetrates the epineurium at a different location, making positioning more straightforward and providing multiple contact points for secure fixation without requiring precise single-point insertion.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple probe functions (signal collection, fixation, and positioning) are combined into a single integrated electrode assembly. The probes are collectively fixed to the nerve epineurium, providing stable positioning and secure attachment while enabling signal collection from multiple locations simultaneously.
5Measurement precision
If many probes with large intervals are inserted vertically into the nerve, then signal acquisition is possible, but great redundant damage is caused to the nerve
Solution Approach 1:
The nerve circumference is divided into multiple segments with probes distributed around it, rather than inserting many probes at one location. This segmentation distributes the mechanical burden and tissue disruption across multiple shallow penetration points, reducing concentrated damage while maintaining signal acquisition capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of inserting multiple probes vertically at large intervals, the probes are arranged radially around the nerve circumference with smaller angular intervals. This dimensional redistribution reduces the depth and concentration of individual penetrations, minimizing nerve damage while maintaining comprehensive signal coverage.
Data Source
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AI summary
A nerve-probing structure comprises: a linking body of a flexible material; and a plurality of probes which are coupled to the linking body and are formed so as to have electrodes for detecting nerve signals. Here, the plurality of probes are disposed with intervals in between in the length direction of the linking body; and the linking body wraps around the outer circumferential surface of a nerve; and the plurality of probes pierce the outer circumferential surface of the nerve so as to be inserted into the nerve.