Viscoelastic Electrode Carrier for Low-Trauma Cochlear Insertion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hearing prostheses, such as cochlear implants, face challenges in efficiently inserting electrode arrays into the cochlea due to the need for external force relief, pressure relief, mass transfer, and energy transfer during transformation, which can cause discomfort and potential damage to the cochlear structure.
Innovation Solution
The use of a viscoelastic material for the electrode carrier, allowing the electrode array to transform from a first geometry to a second geometry without external force relief, pressure relief, mass transfer, or net energy transfer, enabling a smooth and comfortable insertion process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional rigid electrode carriers are used for insertion, then structural stability is maintained, but insertion trauma and discomfort increase due to external force relief requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode carrier material transitions from rigid to viscoelastic, fundamentally changing the mechanical parameters of the carrier. This allows the carrier to deform under insertion forces and then gradually recover, reducing peak stresses on cochlear structures while maintaining structural integrity for electrode positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of viscoelastic materials combines properties of both elasticity and viscosity, creating a composite behavior that provides both shock absorption during insertion and structural stability during operation. This composite material approach resolves the contradiction between softness for insertion and rigidity for function.
2Ease of operation
If external force relief is applied during electrode array transformation, then insertion comfort improves, but insertion complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The viscoelastic electrode carrier performs the force relief function autonomously through its material properties. The material automatically dissipates insertion forces through viscous damping and gradually recovers its shape without requiring external intervention, stylets, or complex deployment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical force relief systems (stylets, sheaths, deployment mechanisms) with the inherent viscoelastic properties of the carrier material itself. This substitution eliminates the need for additional mechanical components and simplifies the insertion procedure.
3Productivity
If the electrode array transforms quickly after insertion, then procedural time is reduced, but cochlear structure may be damaged due to rapid expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The shape recovery of the viscoelastic electrode carrier occurs gradually over time rather than instantaneously. This periodic, controlled recovery allows the cochlear structures to adapt to the expanding carrier without sudden mechanical shocks, reducing the risk of damage while still achieving full deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The viscoelastic material inherently cushions against rapid expansion by dissipating energy through viscous damping during the recovery process. This built-in cushioning protects cochlear structures from the effects of rapid carrier expansion while maintaining insertion efficiency.
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 viscoelastic material facilitates a seamless transformation of the electrode array within the cochlea, reducing insertion time and minimizing trauma to the cochlear structure, ensuring a stable and effective electrical stimulation.
Implementation Method 1
the electrode carrier is made of a viscoelastic material
Implementation Method 2
the implantable component transforms from a first geometry to a second geometry without external force relief, external pressure relief, reaction force, mass transfer and net energy transfer inducing the transformation
Implementation Method 3
the main body is configured to elastically expand in a radial direction relative to a longitudinal axis thereof after insertion into a recipient without any mass transfer into the portions of the main body that expanded
Data Source
AI summary
An electrode array, including a plurality of electrodes, and an electrode carrier carrying the plurality of electrodes, wherein the electrode carrier is made of a viscoelastic material, such as by way of example, a viscoelastic silicone, wherein in some embodiments, the electrode carrier is devoid of non-viscoelastic silicone. In an exemplary embodiment, the electrode carrier is configured to recover to a curved, unrestrained and relaxed state, from a substantially straight state in no less than thirty seconds.