A curvature-controlled 3D micro-electrode array for cochlear implants

This paper reports the design, simulation, fabrication and operation results of a novel curvature-controlled 3D micro-electrode array for cochlear implants. The main body of the device is fabricated using standard thin-film processes, after which a conducting polymer layer is applied to the back. An electric field is used to control the electrode curvature, facilitating its surgical insertion while minimizing mechanical trauma to the scala tympani of the cochlea. In addition, the curved electrode hugs the modiolus, reducing the distance between the electrodes and the target neurons to improve stimulation tonotopic specificity and to lower stimulation threshold.