Neural interface insertion and retraction tools
AssigneeModular Bionics Inc.
InventorsIan Loren Halpern, Mark William Merlo
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Devices and methods for manipulating devices such as micro-scale devices are provided. The devices can include a tether of various materials surrounded by a stiff body. The tether interfaces with microscale devices to draw them against the stiff body, holding the microscale devices in a locked position for insertion into or extraction out of tissue. The tensional hook and stiff body are configurable in a multitude of positions and geometries to provide increased engagement. Such configurations allow for a range of implantation and extraction surgical procedures for the device within research and clinical settings.
Claims20
A tool comprising:
- a housing;
- an elongate body comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the elongate body at least partially disposed within the housing;
- and
- an end effector operably coupled to the distal end of the elongate body, the end effector configured to reversibly couple or decouple with a portion of a micro-scale device, wherein the end effector is configured to be moved laterally relative to the housing to facilitate coupling or decoupling with the portion of the micro-scale device.
A method comprising:
- providing a tool comprising:
- a housing;
- an elongate body comprising a proximal end and a distal end, the elongate body at least partially disposed within the housing;
- and
- an end effector operably coupled to the distal end of the elongate body;
- and
- reversibly coupling or decoupling the end effector with a portion of a micro-scale device, wherein the end effector is configured to be moved laterally relative to the housing to facilitate coupling or decoupling with the portion of the micro-scale device.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.