A novel 3D neural probe with integrated channel and its package

Due to the extreme complexity of neuroscience and neurosurgery, there is naturally a need for probing systems with more functions which can probe in three dimensions. For instance, nerves can size differently in different locations and can present three dimensional neuro imaging with multiple recording and stimulating points, calling for the new developments in this emerging field. It is also highly desirable for drug delivery function and other functions to be integrated with needles and electrodes. This article presents MEMS based 3D neuro imaging probing that can precisely control electrodes size, shape, and density, and may be able to integrate micro-fluidics based drug delivery. It is also perceived that the micro-needles can also be integrated with fiber optics laser stimulation, chemical stimulation, thermal actuators to pump in thermal energy in various wave length range, such as those burning of folium artemisiae argyi, a traditional Chinese medicine, often used in acupuncture, electrical impulse, etc. This article will present the developments of neuro needles in terms of features of packaging and interconnect, with particular interest in 3D needle array packaging and interconnect. The demonstration of a prototype used in the actual animal testing will also be given.