Flexible Laser-Ablated Electrodes for Slender Robotic Applications: Spinal Cord Signal Acquisition and Neural Interfacing

A flexible multi-channel electrode was fabricated using laser ablation technology, in which metallized polyimide (PI) film served as the substrate. The laser ablation process enabled rapid patterning of electrode configurations, validated through in vivo animal implantation experiments. This method features simplified fabrication processes, short production cycles, low cost, and high customizability. The designed six-channel flexible electrode, compatible with a slender robotic platform, achieves circumferential spinal implantation to synchronously record ventral (motor-related) and dorsal (sensory-related) neural signals in rats. Experimental results demonstrated structural stability, robust signal acquisition capabilities, exceptional flexibility, and biocompatibility, establishing a viable electrode platform for neural interface development and motor rehabilitation research.