IMPLANTABLE ELECTRODE ARRAY ASSEMBLY INCLUDING A CARRIER FOR SUPPORTING THE ELECTRODES AND CONTROL MODULES FOR REGULATING OPERATION OF THE ELECTRODES EMBEDDED IN THE CARRIER, AND METHOD OF MAKING SAME

摘要

An implantable electrode array that includes multiple spaced apart electrodes to which current can be individually sourced and sunk. The array includes a carrier that supports the electrodes. One or more control modules that source current to or sink current from the electrodes are disposed in recesses within the carrier. A sheet of material more flexible than the carrier is disposed between, on one side, the carrier and the control modules and, on the other side, the electrodes. Conductors over which instructions and power are applied to the control modules and conductors that extend between the control modules are the electrodes are embedded in and extend through the sheet of flexible material.