Context & Innovation
Context
NerveRepack directly addresses the limitations of current state-of-the-art medical devices designed for individuals with amputated or paralyzed limbs:
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There are no commercially or medically approved devices capable of interfacing injured or damaged nerves involved in motor functions with external technological aids, such as exoprostheses and exoskeletons.
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The deterioration of nerves often leads to muscle atrophy, rendering myoelectric prostheses less effective for many users.
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People using myoelectric exoprostheses or exoskeletons lack sensory feedback, making it impossible to feel the tactile sensations associated with movements or to interact meaningfully with their environment while using these devices.
Innovation
The challenge addressed by NerveRepack lies in the absence of advanced exoprostheses and exoskeletons capable of restoring motor function and peripheral sensations for individuals with amputations or nerve damage. These devices should enable direct control through brain signals.
Therefore, NerveRepack proposes innovative implantable interfaces (architecture and technology) linking the healthy sections of the nerves to a new generation of exoprostheses and exoskeletons. This solution facilitates bidirectional communication, allowing users to control artificial aids via nerve impulses while receiving feedback from sensory devices integrated into the system.
Electrodes will serve as the primary bidirectional interface to the nerves, supported by an implantable module comprising an ASIC for signal processing, a microcontroller, an antenna for radio communication, a coil for wireless power transfer, and a supercapacitor for energy storage. To facilitate data communication with mechatronic structures, as well as their power management and control (via AI modules), an embedded system will be designed, fabricated, and tested. This system will subsequently be integrated into the mechatronic structures of exoprostheses or exoskeletons
The presence of bidirectional implantable electrodes enables the creation of a closed-loop system connecting the user’s brain with the device's control mechanism. The AI module will be instrumental in learning and interpreting the user’s synaptic signals. All components and modules will be developed, fabricated, and rigorously tested, with functionality demonstrated by integrating neural implantable systems into three distinct demonstrators targeting specific patient groups: individuals with forearm amputations, lower limb paralysis, and single-leg paralysis.