Textured Cortical Electrode with Hinged Inline Connector

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Cortical and depth electrodes used for monitoring brain activity face challenges with direct compatibility issues between electrode tails and EEG machines, requiring an improved inline interconnection system and electrode surface design for better adhesion and malleability on the brain surface.

Innovation Solution

The development of textured surface electrodes and hinged two-piece connectors with shielded cables, allowing for enhanced malleability and reduced adhesion, along with methods like 'lost wax' and surface texturing techniques for manufacturing, and the use of shape memory alloy contacts for secure connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If a smooth electrode surface is used, then adhesion to the brain surface is improved, but friction and adhesion to wet surfaces increases making the electrode less malleable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadhesion to brain surfaceVSAvoidmalleability for conformance

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode surface is given different properties in different locations - the contact areas maintain smoothness for good adhesion to brain tissue, while the non-contact portions have textured surfaces to reduce friction and improve malleability. This allows the electrode to conform to the brain surface more easily while maintaining stable electrical contact at the contact points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The electrode surface incorporates curved or rounded features rather than sharp angles, allowing the electrode to better conform to the curved surface of the brain. The textured surface includes rounded protrusions and recesses that facilitate bending and shaping without creating stress concentration points.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

2Ease of operation

If the electrode tail is made small diameter for tunneling, then ease of insertion is improved, but connection compatibility with EEG machines deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of insertion through tunneling needleVSAvoidcompatibility with EEG machine connectors

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode tail is divided into distinct segments - a small diameter proximal portion for insertion through the tunneling needle, and a larger diameter distal portion containing the connector. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while being part of a single continuous structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The connector assembly is designed to be nested within or alongside the electrode tail structure, with the larger connector portion effectively containing or surrounding the smaller insertion portion. This nested arrangement allows the small tail to transition to a larger connector without requiring separate components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Ease of operation

If a hinged two-piece connector is used, then ease of connection operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of making inline interconnectionsVSAvoidconnector assembly structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector uses a hinged design that allows it to transition between open and closed states, enabling easy connection and disconnection operations. The hinge mechanism provides controlled movement that guides the mating components into proper alignment while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connector is divided into two separate pieces that mate together, with each piece containing specific functional elements. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance while providing the hinged motion capability for user-friendly operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 solution provides improved electrode assemblies with enhanced surface contact and reduced friction, enabling better recording and stimulation capabilities while preventing infection and improving user intuitiveness and safety.

Implementation Method 1

the electrode grid or strip has a textured surface to increase malleability for conformance to the surface features of the brain

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMalleability: Plasticity

Implementation Method 2

the electrode grid or strip has a textured surface to reduce adhesion to smooth and wet surfaces of the brain

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction reduction: Friction

Implementation Method 3

hinged two-piece connectors having a hinge either perpendicular or parallel to the contact pins of the connector assembly

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical connection: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS8644903B1Electrode for recording and stimulation

Publication Date: 2014.02.04 PMT

AI summary

Improved electrode assemblies for recording and stimulation. Cortical and depth electrode structures are provided as well as inline interconnection systems. Methods of manufacture are further taught to provide enhanced surfaces for cortical electrodes. The inline interconnection systems include connector assembly embodiments for electrode leads which have structure providing ease of EEG recording as well as stimulation.