An inductive link for an intracortical visual prosthesis

Wireless operation is highly desirable for implanted neural prostheses used for neural stimulation or recording on many channels, whether the goal is to restore lost motor function or sensory capability in humans or to perform neuroscience research in animals without transcutaneous leads. However, the necessarily small size of stimulating and recording implants poses certain challenges in constructing an inductive link to wirelessly power and communicate with the implant. The objectives of this research are: first, to design an inductive link to provide power and control data to a 16-channel electrode array, which is small enough to be implanted beneath the dura for use in an intracortical visual prosthesis, and second, to develop a method of fabricating the implanted side of the inductive link in a manner which is reliable and reproducible.