Waveguide Neural Interface Lateral Light Redirection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optrode devices for optogenetic studies are inefficient due to one-dimensional light output, brittleness, and the Becquerel effect, which limits their practical applications in neural recording and stimulation.
Innovation Solution
A waveguide neural interface device with a light directing element that redirects light laterally to provide two-dimensional or three-dimensional optical stimulation patterns, reducing the impact of the Becquerel effect and enhancing neural recording capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional optrode devices are used, then neural recording capability is provided, but light output is limited to one dimension and the device becomes brittle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional light output to two-dimensional light output by positioning light-emitting elements on the lateral surface of the waveguide rather than only at the distal end. This allows light to be emitted in multiple directions (axial and lateral), creating a two-dimensional optical stimulation pattern that improves adaptability while maintaining device flexibility through the use of flexible waveguide materials.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If conventional optrode devices are used, then neural stimulation is achieved, but the Becquerel effect creates electrical artifacts that confound recording
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a waveguide structure that separates the light delivery path from the electrical recording electrodes. The waveguide acts as a mediator that delivers light laterally without requiring the light source to be in direct contact with the neural tissue, thereby reducing the Becquerel effect at the electrode-tissue interface while maintaining both stimulation and recording capabilities.
3Use of energy by moving object
If fused silica optical fibers are used, then light transmission is achieved, but the fibers become dangerous due to brittleness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from fused silica to flexible waveguide materials that maintain adequate light transmission properties while significantly improving mechanical flexibility and safety. The waveguide structure allows for parameter optimization in both optical performance and mechanical properties, enabling the device to be both effective and safe for neural applications.
4Illumination intensity
If light is directed axially along the waveguide, then light transmission is efficient, but spatial selectivity for targeted tissue illumination is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds lateral light emission to the axial light transmission, creating a two-dimensional illumination pattern. This allows the waveguide to maintain efficient axial light transmission while simultaneously providing lateral light emission for targeted tissue illumination, thereby achieving both high illumination intensity and improved spatial selectivity through multi-directional light output.
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 waveguide neural interface device offers improved flexibility and functionality for optogenetic techniques, enabling precise control and monitoring of neural activity with spatial selectivity and temporal resolution, suitable for clinical treatments and research applications.
Implementation Method 1
a waveguide (120) coupled to the neural device that includes a light directing element (122) that carries light along a longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
the light directing element (122) redirects carried light laterally away from the longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
A waveguide neural interface device including: a neural device implantable in tissue and including an array of electrode sites that electrically communicate with their surroundings, in which the array of electrode sites includes at least one recording electrode site; and a waveguide, coupled to the neural device, that carries light along a longitudinal axis and includes a light directing element that redirects the carried light from the waveguide to illuminate selectively targeted tissue, in which at least a portion of the redirected light is directed laterally away from the longitudinal axis and the recording electrode site is configured to sample illuminated tissue. A method for assembling a waveguide neural interface device is also described.