Multi-element probe array
AssigneeSarcos Investments LC
InventorsStephen Jacobsen, David Marceau, Shayne Zurn
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A multi-element probe array suitable for sensing or stimulating is disclosed. In one embodiment, the multi-element probe array includes a plurality of microfibers extending longitudinally and oriented substantially parallel to form a bundle. Probe elements are defined by a first subset of the microfibers displaced in a forward direction alone the longitudinal axis relative to spacer elements defined by a second subset of the microfibers. Interface elements and communication elements are disposed on the probe elements.
Claims26
A multi-element probe array useable as a sensor and/or for applying a stimulus comprising:
- a plurality of microfibers extending longitudinally and oriented substantially parallel to form a bundle having a longitudinal axis, each of the plurality of microfibers having a front end, a first subset of the plurality of microfibers defining probe elements and a second subset of the plurality of microfibers defining spacer elements, wherein the front ends of at least one of the probe elements is displaced in a forward position along the longitudinal axis relative to at least one of the spacer elements;
- an interface element disposed on at least one of the probe elements;
- and
- a communication element disposed on at least one of the probe elements and operatively coupled to at least one of the interface elements and configured to communicate a signal between the interface element and another point in the multi-element probe array.
A multi-element probe array useable as a sensor and/or for applying a stimulus comprising:
- a linear bundle of microfibers oriented along a longitudinal axis having front ends positioned differentially along the longitudinal axis;
- a most forward positioned subset of the microfibers each having at least one interface element disposed near their front ends;
- and
- a plurality of communication elements disposed on the most forward positioned microfibers operatively coupled to the interface elements.
A method of making a multi-element probe array comprising the steps of:
- a.) providing a plurality of microfibers, a first subset of the microfibers designated as probe elements and a second subset of the microfibers designated as spacer elements;
- b.) forming at least one interface element near a front end of each of the probe elements;
- c.) creating at least one communication element on each of the probe elements, the communication element being coupled to the at least one interface element;
- and
- d.) gathering the plurality of microfibers into a longitudinally extending bundle having a longitudinal axis, wherein the front ends of the probe elements are displaced in a forward direction along the longitudinal axis relative to at least one of the spacer elements.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.