Towards wireless neural electrodes: System-integration for stimulating and recording of nerve signals

In this paper we present the developed components and the electronic packaging design for a miniaturized, wireless neural electrode. Particularly, the whole system consists of a hook-up electrode for contacting the nerve and an electronic part that generates and sends stimulating signals to the nerve and records the neural signals. The hook-up electrode has been designed in a way that enhances the easy of positioning during the medical procedure and consists of biocompatible materials in order to avoid toxic tissue reactions. The most important component of the electronic part is a developed ASIC, which receives power and data from a coil and generates the stimulating signals and records signals coming from the nerve. The telemetric power and data transmission is based on a transponder principle. A separate sending and reading unit laid under the patient is providing energy and data transmission to the wireless system for stimulation and recording. The assembly of all components is ensured by a system-integration approach that maintains functioning of the whole wireless system properly and reliably. In this regard, the proposed wireless neural electrode offers a promising alternative for applications in neural electrical stimulation and recording.