High-density neurostimulation system

Background:

Existing skin-surface neurostimulation uses a single electrode that delivers bulk stimulation to the entire tissue in the stimulation area. It lacks the ability to control the depth or direction of stimulation, resulting in poor muscle targeting. Next-generation neurostimulation electrodes should be enhanced to enable programmable electrode sizes and shapes, as well as optimized localization. Currently, there are no scalable electrodes that allow these characteristics to be modified “on-the-fly”, or without replacing the electrodes themselves.

Technology Overview:

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed a high-density neurostimulation system capable of controlling field geometry, depth, and enabling stimulation vectoring. The system comprises a collection of high-density electrodes that can be activated in specific geometric patterns and distributed neurostimulation hardware that can control hundreds to thousands of electrodes, minimizing the number of wires for miniaturized and wearable applications.

Advantages:

• Depth control of stimulation
• Stimulation vectoring (tuning of stimulation direction)
• High-resolution neurostimulation
• Targeting of smaller muscles
• Electric field shape control
• Distributed control of high-density sensor systems
• First high-density neurostimulation technology
• Enables a much broader utility for surface neurostimulation

Applications:

• Neurorehabilitation and neuromodulation (e.g., stroke, Parkinson’s, pain, functional recovery)
• Neuromuscular stimulation and wearable rehab/performance systems
• Neural sensing and electrophysiology (EMG, high-density, multi-sensor platforms)
• Human–machine interfaces and immersive control systems
• High-density electrical control and field-based technologies

Intellectual Property Summary: Provisional Patent Application 63/967,151 filed January 23, 2026.

Stage of Development: TRL 3-4

Licensing Status: Available for license or collaboration.

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