A Novel Approach to DBS Electrode Prototyping

This research project focuses on the design and fabrication of a deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrode used for Parkinson’s disease. It is a combination of technologies, such as 3D printing injection of polymers and silicones at high and low temperatures, used to develop a manufacturing process of a DBS electrode prototype. For the manufacturing process of the DBS electrode, two case studies are proposed, one at high temperature and the other at room temperature. Rings are used for communication at the ends with the deep brain stimulation (DBS). For the development, different types of molds and nozzles were proposed, considering various variables to control the material flow since polymers or copolymers melted at high temperatures behave differently from silicones injected at room temperature. The injection of Polyamide as a coating for a silver core in a mold, as well as the injection of silicone over a steel core, have been applied theoretically and experimentally. The results show a new method and technique to produce DBS electrodes at a low cost.