The Microbead: A Highly Miniaturized Wirelessly Powered Implantable Neural Stimulating System

IEEE Trans Biomed Circuits Syst. 2018 Jun;12(3):521-531. doi: 10.1109/TBCAS.2018.2802443.

Abstract

An implant that can electrically stimulate neurons across different depths and regions of the brain currently does not exist as it poses a number of obstacles that need to be solved. In order to address the challenges, this paper presents the concept of "microbead," a fully integrated wirelessly powered neural device that allows for spatially selective activation of neural tissue. The prototype chip is fabricated in 130-nm CMOS technology and currently measures 200 μm × 200 μm, which represents the smallest remotely powered stimulator to date. The system is validated experimentally in a rat by stimulating the sciatic nerve with 195-μs current pulses. To power the ultrasmall on-silicon coil, 36-dBm source power is provided to a highly optimized transmitter (Tx) coil at a coupling distance of 5 mm. In order to satisfy the strict power limit for safe use in human subjects, a pulsed powering scheme is implemented that enables a significant decrease in the average power emitted from the Tx.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy* / instrumentation
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy* / methods
  • Humans
  • Implantable Neurostimulators*
  • Male
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Sciatic Nerve / physiopathology*
  • Wireless Technology / instrumentation*