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Description
In recent decades, there has been a dramatic increase in the industry related to the implantable devices which interface the neural system. These active implants comprise a nerve or brain interface (usually an electrode array), and embedded electronics to sense neural signals and stimulate the desired neuronal activity. The present devices are employed for the treatment of a wide variety of disorders and can be used for a range of conditions including restoration of motor function; brain-computer interfaces; epilepsy; chronic depression; and chronic heart failure.
The module reviews the existing technology behind neural implants. The module addresses four main themes:
- Recording and stimulating the nervous system.
- The biophysics of action potential.
- Physics of electrical field and current distribution in neural tissue.
- Common strategies of measurement and stimulation.
- An overview of neural interfaces including commercial and research devices.
- Manufacturing and failure.
- Techniques for protecting electronics in the body.
- Common architectures employed for design and manufacture of neural implantable devices.
- Life-time considerations for devices in the nervous system.
- Neural tissue interactions and safety.
- Biocompatibility considerations for devices in the nervous system.
- Electric field and neural tissue interaction.
- Surgical considerations for devices in the nervous system.
- Implant electronics.
- Common architectures employed for design and manufacture of neural implantable devices.
- Analogue electronics for sensing and neural stimulation.
- Digital electronics for signal processing, data transmission, and neural encoding/decoding.
- Power delivery: batteries and wireless power transmission.
- An introduction to implant regulations: including the development process.
This module combines classroom learning, eLearning, and laboratory-based learning. Laboratory sessions will introduce students to common tests and techniques with neural implants used in device evaluation.
This module is assessed by a mix of coursework and a written exam.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 8th April 2024.
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