Developing surgical insertion system for cortical implant
Michael Deimetry
Making a difference through engineering
By combining 3D printed components MVG is developing a cortical implant which aims to restore partial vision to the visually impaired. The implant is inserted into the brain matter through a controlled "strike". For the surgical insertion, a system developed by blackrock microelectronics was to be used, however the system was deemed unsuitable for humans for a number of reasons. Primarily due to the variability in the insertion force. The system currently works by controlling the flow of air stored in a single reservoir into a wand. The wand contains a piston which is free to move within the shaft through the application of compressed air and vacuum to various parts. An electronic circuit monitors the pressure in the pneumatic system and restores pressure through the allowance or restriction of air flow which is implemented using a feedback system.
Simulation; a coined term which means a system that brings the physics of the virtual world to the real world. When a User holds on to an object in the VR game, the Grip Simulation system aims to stop the User’s fingers around the boundaries of the object in the real world to produce an illusion of a tangible VR environment.
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To maintain a constant pressure there are two reservoirs of air. The first is supplied by a pump and maintained at a constant pressure, say 25psi. The second is attached to the wand. When air escapes through the wand during an insertion, the system will close a valve in between the two tanks which will replenish the tank with the depleted air. Before an insertion the desired pressure can be set. This reflects the force applied to the implant. During an insertion, pressure will be applied to the wand which will push a piston to the other end where it strikes the implant. Once complete vacuum is applied which pulls the piston back to the starting position.
Partnered with: The Monash Vision Group
