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  4. Design and Testing of Stimulation and Myoelectric Recording Modules in an Implanted Distributed Neuroprosthetic System

Design and Testing of Stimulation and Myoelectric Recording Modules in an Implanted Distributed Neuroprosthetic System

IEEE Trans Biomed Circuits Syst., 2021 · DOI: 10.1109/TBCAS.2021.3066838 · Published: April 1, 2021

Spinal Cord InjuryNeurologyBiomedical

Simple Explanation

This paper introduces a new type of modular neuroprosthesis called the Networked Neuroprosthesis (NNP). The NNP system is the first fully implanted modular neuroprosthesis that includes implantation of all power, signal processing, biopotential signal recording, and stimulating components. The system consists of a central "power module" (PM) with daisy chained "remote modules" to provide function through sensing and neuromodulation. The PM supplies power to the remote modules and manages communication both within the system and between the system and external interfaces. Two types of remote modules were developed: a four-channel pulse generator module (PG4) for stimulation and a two-channel biopotential recording module (BP2) for measuring muscle signals. This manuscript describes the design, benchtop testing, and first-in-human functionality of the first generation remote modules capable of stimulation (PG4) and biopotential recording (BP2).

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
Persons with spinal cord injury
Evidence Level
Level 4: Case series

Key Findings

  • 1
    System testing demonstrated that the NNP was functional and capable of generating stimulus pulses and recording myoelectric, temperature, and accelerometer signals.
  • 2
    Benchtop testing of the PG4 module showed that it could accurately generate stimulus pulses with varied amplitudes and pulse widths across different impedance values.
  • 3
    The BP2 module was able to record myoelectric signals within the typical frequency range for EMG signals, and human validation showed that these signals could be used as command signals.

Research Summary

This paper presents the design, testing, and validation of stimulation (PG4) and biopotential recording (BP2) modules for a fully implanted modular neuroprosthesis system called the Networked Neuroprosthesis (NNP). The NNP system uses a distributed architecture with a central power module (PM) and daisy-chained remote modules, enabling customized configurations for restoring multiple functions in individuals with paralysis. Both benchtop and human validation results demonstrate the functionality of the PG4 and BP2 modules, showing their capability to generate stimulus pulses, record myoelectric signals, and measure acceleration and temperature.

Practical Implications

Restoration of Function

The NNP system can restore functional capabilities for people with disabilities, such as spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis.

Customizable System

The modular design allows the system to be adapted to individual needs, facilitating improved quality of life for a greater number of people.

Advanced Control

The network of sensors that can be incorporated into the system has potential for advanced stimulation control.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    The system is not optimized for a single solution, which can increase overall system cost, power consumption, and size.
  • 2
    The stimulation module acts as the anode instead of allowing alternate channels to serve as the anode.
  • 3
    The present design was not optimized for power consumption, a contributing factor to the significant power consumption from the modules.

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