Production of Three-Dimensionally Structured Electrode Layers, in Particular According to the Kirigami Principle

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This patent describes a method for manufacturing three-dimensional (3D) structured electrode layers, specifically using a kirigami-inspired approach, which incorporates the concept of cutting and folding flexible materials to form arrays of electrodes that extend out of a flat surface. The electrode arrays can be precisely produced in parallel with high reliability and accuracy using cleanroom processes and microfabrication (including photolithography and 3D printing of moulds). These 3D electrode matrices are particularly well-suited for use as neuroimplants in neuroscience, as they enable the measurement and stimulation of neuronal activity in three dimensions within tissues such as brain cortex and retina, overcoming significant limitations of conventional planar or stacked electrode arrays.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Implantable 3D neuroelectrodes for brain (cortex) or retina research and stimulation.
• Electrophysiological recording and stimulation in both in-vitro and in-vivo neuroscience experiments.
• 3D biosensing platforms for detecting electrochemical or physical properties in cellular/tissue models, organoids, or other biological systems.
• Wearable or implantable electrodes for medical diagnostics or therapeutic devices (e.g., prosthetics, pacemakers requiring advanced electrode interfaces).
• Miniaturized 3D microelectrode arrays for impedance measurement and bio-signal mapping in biomedical research.

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• Enables fast, scalable, and parallel production of complex 3D electrode arrays, reducing fabrication time and cost.
• Achieves precise, reproducible, and self-aligned electrode positioning with high spatial resolution, which is essential for accurate neural interfacing.
• Eliminates the need for cytotoxic materials and hazardous high-energy equipment (as used in some previous methods), improving biocompatibility and safety.
• Allows for flexible design customization (electrode number, geometry, size) to adapt to various research and clinical needs.
• Can utilize established cleanroom processes and materials validated for medical/biological compatibility, supporting regulatory acceptance.
• Improves signal quality, tissue access, and stimulation coverage compared to planar designs, enabling more comprehensive study and therapeutic intervention in complex tissues.

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Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to three-dimensional structured electrode layers, a method for producing them and use thereof, the production being preferably kirigami-inspired.