Neural interface insertion and retraction tools
AssigneeModular Bionics Inc.
InventorsIan Loren Halpern, Mark William Merlo
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
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.
Claims24
1-18. (canceled)
A tool configured for inserting and retracting a micro-scale device, comprising:
- a housing;
- an elastic tether comprising a proximal end, a distal end, and an elongate body, a portion of the tether configured to extend distally from the housing in a first configuration and be retracted within the housing in a second configuration;
- and
- an end effector operably connected to the distal end of the tether, the end effector configured to reversibly mechanically couple with a portion of the micro-scale device, wherein the tool is configured such that the mechanical coupling does not substantially displace the micro-scale device.
(canceled)
(canceled)
(canceled)
A method of removing a micro-scale device from a target substrate, comprising:
- providing an removal tool comprising an elastic tether having a proximal end, a distal end, and an elongate body, and an end effector operably connected to the distal end of the tether;
- mechanically coupling the end effector to a portion of the micro-scale device embedded at least partially within the target substrate;
- and
- withdrawing the insertion tool and the micro-scale device from the target substrate.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.