Neural interfacing device
Inventors
Butera, Robert J. • Patel, Yogi A. • Ross, James D. • Rajaraman, Swaminathan • Clements, Isaac
Assignees
Biocircuit Technologies Inc Georgia Tech Research Corp • Georgia Tech Research Corp • Axion Biosystems Inc • Biocircuit Technologies Inc
Publication Number
US-11839478-B2
Publication Date
2023-12-12
Expiration Date
2035-02-02
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Abstract
A neural interfacing device is disclosed. The neural interfacing device includes a microneedle electrode. The microneedle electrode includes a body having a void formed therein and a plurality of microneedles. The void surrounds the plurality of microneedles, and the plurality of microneedles are bent outward with respect to the body to form a three-dimensional microneedle electrode. Additionally, each of the plurality of microneedles is sized and shaped to penetrate a nerve epineurium.
Core Innovation
The invention concerns a neural interfacing device comprising a microneedle electrode with a conductive body containing a plurality of microneedles, where the body forms a void that surrounds the microneedles. These microneedles are bent outward from the body to create a three-dimensional electrode structure, and each microneedle is designed to penetrate the epineurium of a nerve. The microneedle electrode may be incorporated into different assemblies, including planar bases or elongate cuffs, and can be configured individually, in bipolar, tri-polar, or multi-channel array configurations.
The problem addressed is the challenge of achieving effective neural stimulation or signal recording with minimal electrical current or voltage, due to high-impedance tissues such as the epineurium and connective tissue surrounding nerves. Existing extraneural interfaces suffer from high charge requirements, signal interference, and positional instability. Intraneural interfaces, while more selective, are invasive and can damage nerves or require complex surgical techniques.
The core innovation introduces a minimally invasive microneedle electrode that is engineered to penetrate just the nerve epineurium without substantially invading the nerve axons, optionally limiting penetration to less than 500 micrometers. The three-dimensional arrangement and anchoring mechanisms of the microneedles increase stability, lower stimulation thresholds, and improve recording fidelity by reducing impedance and ensuring secure nerve contact. The devices may further integrate with stimulation and recording electronics and allow configurations adaptable to different nerve types and applications.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes one independent claim that covers a neural interfacing device with several inventive features.
Three-dimensional microneedle electrode with outward-bent microneedles
A microneedle electrode comprising a conductive body that includes a void surrounding the plurality of microneedles, wherein the microneedles are bent outward with respect to the body to create a three-dimensional microneedle electrode. Each microneedle is sized and shaped to penetrate a nerve epineurium.
The inventive feature centers on the creation of a three-dimensional microneedle electrode with outwardly bent microneedles that are specifically designed for targeted penetration of the nerve epineurium.
Stated Advantages
Minimizes the electrical current required to stimulate nerves compared to conventional electrodes.
Increases the signal-to-noise ratio of nerve recordings over traditional electrodes.
Increases mechanical stability of the device, reducing movement and maintaining electrode position on the nerve.
Provides lower impedance at the nerve-electrode interface.
Extends electrode life by reducing electrical degradation and lowering current requirements.
Reduces risk of nerve damage over time due to minimized charge delivery.
Leads to longer battery life of implantable devices.
Documented Applications
Electrical stimulation and recording of electrical activity of nerves in settings involving peripheral, cranial, optic, spinal, autonomic nerves, nerve ganglia, or nerve plexuses.
Use in neural interfacing devices to stimulate or inhibit nerve activity.
Facilitates regeneration of severed or damaged nerves by binding and applying external stimulation via the microneedle interface.
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