Optimization of Polymeric Microneedle Electrode for High-Quality EMG recording

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Microneedle Technology

Background:

• Microneedle electrodes offer minimally invasive solutions for biosignal acquisition.
• Optimizing microneedle geometry and fabrication is crucial for enhanced performance and patient comfort.

Purpose of the Study:

• To optimize polyimide microneedle electrode fabrication using a 3D print double molding technique.
• To investigate the impact of various microneedle shapes and fabrication parameters on penetration capacity.
• To evaluate the efficacy of optimized microneedle electrodes for muscle signal acquisition and hand gesture recognition.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 3D print double molding fabrication process for polyimide microneedles.
• Investigated diverse microneedle shapes including circle, triangle, square, star, and hexagon.
• Analyzed aspect ratio, insertion force, and breakpoint to determine optimal microneedle design.
• Acquired muscle signals using the optimized microneedle electrodes.

Main Results:

• Successfully fabricated polyimide microneedles with varying shapes and optimized parameters.
• Identified key geometric and fabrication factors influencing microneedle penetration capacity.
• Demonstrated the capability of optimized microneedle electrodes to capture muscle signals for distinguishing hand gestures.

Conclusions:

• The 3D print double molding method is effective for optimizing polyimide microneedle electrodes.
• Optimized microneedle design enhances penetration capacity and biosignal acquisition.
• Developed microneedle electrodes show promise for non-invasive hand gesture recognition.