Design and optimization of microscale magnetic probes for multi-site neural stimulation

In this paper, we evaluate the ability of using microscale magnetic probes to evoke activating function potentially for multi-site magnetic-based neural stimulation. Two different designs, a conventional closed-winding coil array and a new open-winding coil array, are investigated using both analytical method in MATLAB and finite element method in Ansoft HFSS. The open-winding configuration is shown to improve spatial resolution and uniformity of magnetically induced activating function and reduce fabrication complexity. To prove the simulation results, device prototypes are fabricated based on the new open-winding configuration. Preliminary testing results are in agreement with the simulation expectation.