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A Sensory Feedback Neural Stimulator Prototype for Both Implantable and Wearable Applications
Federico Mereu1,2, Francesca Cordella2, Roberto Paolini2
1Centro Protesi Inail, Vigorso di Budrio, 40054 Bologna, Italy.
Micromachines
|April 27, 2024
Summary
This study introduces a novel prosthetic device for restoring sensory feedback. The system offers dual functionality for both implantable (PNS) and wearable (TENS) applications, marking a significant advancement in prosthetic technology.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroprosthetics
- Rehabilitation Technology
Background:
- Restoring sensory feedback is a critical challenge in prosthetic development.
- Existing solutions often lack versatility for different application types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a prototype device for sensory feedback restoration.
- To enable both implantable (Peripheral Nerve Stimulation - PNS) and wearable (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation - TENS) applications.
Main Methods:
- Detailed presentation of the electronic board design for both systems.
- Bench testing of the prototype device.
- Evaluation of the wearable version's ability to elicit somatic sensations in healthy participants.
Main Results:
- The device functions effectively in both implantable and wearable configurations.
- The implantable version supports simultaneous and independent stimulation of 30 channels.
- The wearable version demonstrated performance comparable to commercial TENS solutions.
Conclusions:
- This work presents the first dual-scenario device for sensory feedback restoration.
- The prototype respects expected stimulation parameters for both PNS and TENS applications.
- The device shows promise for enhancing prosthetic functionality and user experience.
