New approaches for the implementation of minimally invasive microelectrode arrays designed for brain-machine interfaces

Microelectrode arrays are likely to play an important role in the implementation of brain-machine interfaces. One of the major obstacles is to make existing microelectrode arrays much less invasive. In this aim, novel approaches for the implementation of these microelectrode arrays will be required. This paper suggests the use structurally bi-stable electrodes based on deployable microstructures which minimize the overall dimensions during insertion into the cortex and then deploy to increase the recording surface and lower the electrical impedance. Other design alternatives and issues such as new methods of implantation, tracking, and additional features that could make microelectrodes less invasive are also briefly described.