Portable handheld electrospinning device

Abstract

A portable, handheld electrospinning or electrospraying device for electrospinning or electrospraying a predetermined solution onto a deposition surface, comprising a durable portion of the handheld device and a consumable portion of the handheld device. The consumable portion of the handheld device can contain the solution output by the electrospinning or electrospraying method and can be fully or partially replaced to provide additional or alternative solutions. A base station can be provided, and the base station can output high voltage and communication signals to the handheld device to enable the handheld device to perform the electrospinning or electrospraying operation.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of November 19, 2018, application number 201880075002.3, and name “Electrospinning device, system and method thereof”. Technical Field

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to electrospinning devices and systems and methods thereof. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to portable handheld electrospinning devices and systems, methods, and parts thereof. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, a portable, handheld electrospinning or electrospraying device may be provided. The handheld device may include a durable portion and a consumable portion. The consumable portion of the handheld device may contain the solution delivered by the electrospinning or electrospraying method and may be fully or partially replaced to provide additional or alternative solutions. A base station may also be provided, and the base station may output high voltage and communication signals to the handheld device, enabling the handheld device to perform electrospinning or electrospraying operations.

[0004] In addition, in one or more embodiments, a portable handheld device is provided for electrospinning or electrospraying a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface. The device may include: a durable portion; and a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion. The consumable portion may include: a hollow nozzle configured to output a solution from its nozzle tip, the hollow nozzle having a hollow electrode, the hollow electrode defining a first portion of a flow path for the solution to the outside of the device, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path; and a housing configured to accommodate a predetermined maximum volume of solution and output the solution to the hollow electrode. The durable portion may include: a drive mechanism configured to output the solution from the housing to the hollow electrode; and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the drive mechanism and control the application of high voltage to the hollow electrode to generate an electric field for applying to the solution, thereby electrospinning or electrospraying the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface. The circuit may be configured to provide high voltage to the hollow electrode.

[0005] Embodiments also include a portable, handheld device for electrospinning a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface. The device may include: a durable portion; and a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion. The consumable portion may include: a hollow nozzle configured to output the solution from its nozzle tip, the hollow nozzle having a hollow electrode, the hollow electrode defining a first portion of a flow path for the solution to flow outside the device, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path, the hollow electrode configured to output a high voltage received through a first conductive path; another electrode configured to output a high voltage received through a second conductive path different from the first conductive path; and a housing configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of solution and output the solution to the hollow electrode. The durable portion may include: a drive mechanism configured to cause the solution to be output from the housing to the hollow electrode; and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the drive mechanism and control the application of the high voltage to the hollow electrode and the application of the high voltage to the other electrode to generate an electric field for application to the solution, thereby electrospinning the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface. The circuit may be configured to provide the high voltage to the hollow electrode and the other electrode.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments, an electrospinning or electrospraying system may include: a device for providing high voltage; a device for generating an electric field based on the high voltage and applying the electric field to a solution; a device for outputting a solution to receive the action of the electric field; a device for outputting the solution as an electrospun or electrosprayed solution; and a device for controlling the device for generating the electric field and the device for outputting the solution as an electrospun or electrosprayed solution.

[0007] Embodiments may also include methods of providing, making, and / or using devices and systems according to embodiments of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate one or more embodiments of the invention and, together with the detailed description, explain various embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and any values ​​or dimensions shown in the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and may or may not represent actual or preferred values ​​or dimensions. Where applicable, some or all selected features may not be shown to aid in the description and understanding of the essential features.

[0009] Figure 1 is a diagram of a system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view of an example of a handheld device according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A An enlarged view of a portion of the handheld device.

[0012] Figure 3 Show Figure 2A An exploded sectional view of the various parts of the handheld device.

[0013] Figure 4 According to one or more embodiments of the present invention Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the consumable portion of a handheld device.

[0014] Figure 5 According to one or more embodiments of the present invention Figure 4 Schematic diagram of a portion of the consumable part.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Side view of the consumable part.

[0016] Figure 7 Showing one or more embodiments according to the present invention Figure 2A A side cross-sectional view of the nozzle portion of the handheld device.

[0017] Figure 8 is a basic flow chart of a method according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0018] Component List

[0019] 100 systems

[0020] 200 base stations

[0021] 202 Control Panel

[0022] 204 Controller

[0023] 206 Power Supply

[0024] 208 Handheld device socket

[0025] 300 Handheld Device

[0026] 310 main assembly / durable part

[0027] 350 output components / consumable parts

[0028] 352 Nozzle

[0029] HV High Voltage

[0030] 400 Transmission Medium

[0031] 500 ground wire

[0032] 501 Grounding Strap

[0033] 502 ground wire

[0034] 600 Handheld Device

[0035] 610 main assembly

[0036] 611 housing

[0037] 612 User Control Interface

[0038] 614 Motor

[0039] 616 Actuator

[0040] 618 Circuit

[0041] 620 distance sensor

[0042] 622 Liquid Level Detector

[0043] 624HV connector

[0044] 626 Consumables detector

[0045] 627 pins

[0046] 628 Light Source

[0047] 630 tactile feedback mechanism

[0048] 633 Pressing member

[0049] 635 Pressed component

[0050] 650 Output Components

[0051] 651 housing

[0052] 652 Nozzle

[0053] 653 optical path

[0054] 654 Conductive Rod

[0055] 655 connector

[0056] 656 High Voltage Connector

[0057] 657 Feedback Indicator

[0058] 658 Consumable part housing

[0059] 659 plug

[0060] 660 solution container

[0061] 662 needle electrode

[0062] SB Fallback

[0063] 665 disk electrode

[0064] 670 Nozzle Tip

[0065] 671 bushing / sheath

[0066] 800 Method

[0067] 802 Step 804 Step 806 Step DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] The detailed description set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended to illustrate various embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to represent the only embodiment. In some cases, the detailed description includes specific details to provide an understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In some cases, structures and components may be shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the present invention. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numerals will be used to refer to the same or similar components as much as possible.

[0069] Any reference in the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" indicates that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, operation, or function described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, any appearance of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, characteristics, operations, or functions may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, and it is intended that embodiments of the present invention can and do encompass modifications and variations of the described embodiments.

[0070] It should also be noted that, as used in the specification, the appended claims, and the abstract, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In other words, as used herein, the words "a," "an," and the like have the meaning of "one or more," unless expressly indicated otherwise. In addition, it should be understood that terms such as "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "side," "height," "length," "width," "upper," "lower," "interior," "exterior," "inner," and "outer" as used herein merely illustrate reference points and do not limit embodiments of the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and "third" merely identify one of a plurality of parts, components, reference points, operations, and / or functions as described herein, and likewise do not limit embodiments of the present invention to any particular configuration or orientation.

[0071] Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to electrospinning devices, systems, and methods thereof. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to portable, handheld electrospinning devices, systems, methods, and components thereof. Embodiments of the present invention may also include or relate to portable, handheld electrospraying devices, systems, methods, and components thereof. Where embodiments of the present invention may include portable, handheld electrospinning or electrospraying devices, systems, methods, and components thereof, such embodiments may be used in clinical, salon, or home settings.

[0072] Generally speaking, electrospinning, which can be referred to as electrospinning, involves generating an electric field (EF) in and around a solution (e.g., a polymer solution) to draw the solution into relatively thin fibers. The high voltage must be high enough to generate an electric field sufficient to produce a Taylor cone. A plurality of such fibers can be formed into a grid or web, for example, on a surface such as skin.

[0073] The fiber diameter can be, for example, as small as nanometers. That is, when a fiber deposit is formed by electrospinning, the thickness of the fiber, expressed as the diameter of the corresponding circle, may preferably be 10 nm or more, and more preferably 50 nm or more. In addition, the thickness may preferably be 3,000 nm or less, and more preferably 1,000 nm or less. The fiber thickness can be measured by, for example, observing the fiber at a magnification of 10,000 times using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), removing defects (fiber clusters, fiber intersections, and droplets) from the two-dimensional image of the fiber, selecting any ten fibers, drawing a line perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of each fiber, and directly reading the fiber diameter.

[0074] Preferably, in one or more embodiments, the fibers are continuous fibers. The fibers may be continuous fibers having an infinite length when formed, and the length of the fibers is preferably at least 100 times their thickness. In this specification, fibers having a length exceeding 100 times their thickness are defined as "continuous fibers." Preferably, the coating formed by the electrostatic spraying method is a porous discontinuous coating comprising a deposit of continuous fibers.

[0075] Alternatively, one or more embodiments of the present invention may involve electrospraying, which may generally involve generating an electric field (EF) relative to a solution (eg, a polymer solution) to output droplets of the solution.

[0076] The flow rate (F) of the output solution can be about 0.17 ml / min, preferably about 0.07 ml / min, more preferably about 0.01 to about 0.50 ml / min, even more preferably about 0.0.03 to about 0.40 ml / min, and most preferably about 0.05 to about 0.3 ml / min. Furthermore, the flow rate can be generated or set based on the current and voltage supplied to generate the electric field and the desired output fiber or droplet properties. The flow rate can also depend on the characteristics of the solution (e.g., molecular weight, type, conductivity); environmental aspects (e.g., ambient temperature and / or ambient humidity); and device configuration (e.g., nozzle configuration).

[0077] The voltage (V) supplied to generate the electric field is preferably about 8 kV to about 30 kV, more preferably about 9 kV to about 25 kV, and even more preferably about 10 kV to about 20 kV.

[0078] The relationship between voltage (V) and flow rate (F) may preferably be (F) = 0.015*(V) + 0.1, more preferably (F) = 0.012*(V) + 0.12, and even more preferably (F) = 0.08*(V) + 0.15. Set forth below are non-limiting examples of flow rates according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0079] Flow rate (F) 0.01~0.5mL / min←(V) Voltage 8~30kV F=0.015*V+0.1.

[0080] Flow rate (F) 0.03~0.4mL / min←voltage 9~25kV F=0.012*V+0.12.

[0081] Flow rate (F) 0.05~0.3mL / min←Voltage 10~20kV F=0.08*V+0.15

[0082] The viscosity of the solution may preferably be from about 1 mPa·s to about 1,200 mPa·s, more preferably from about 50 mPa·s to about 500 mPa·s, and most preferably from about 100 mPa·s to about 300 mPa·s. The viscosity may be measured according to one or more viscometer methods or types, for example, a spindle-type (B-type) viscometer or a cone-plate-type (E-type) viscometer. For example, a spindle-type viscosity measurement may be performed using a B-type viscometer (e.g., TVB-10 from Toki Sangyo Co., Ltd.) under the following characteristics / conditions: spindle number M2 (21); rotation speed 60 rpm; and temperature 25°C. Additionally or alternatively, cone-plate viscosity measurements may be performed using an E-type viscometer (e.g., VISCON EMD by Tokyo Keiki Co., Ltd.) under the following characteristics / conditions: cone-plate rotor No. 43; rotational speed selected according to viscometer specifications based on viscosity grade: speed of 1 rpm: greater than 1280 mPa·s; speed of 10 rpm: greater than 128 and less than 1280 mPa·s; speed of 100 rpm: less than 128 mPa·s; and temperature of 25°C.

[0083] As described above, in one or more embodiments of the present invention, the solution can be a polymer solution. For example, the polymer solution can preferably be a water-insoluble polymer having the ability to form a coating, such as: fully saponified polyvinyl alcohol that can be insoluble after the coating is formed; partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol that can be cross-linked after the coating is formed when used in combination with a cross-linking agent; oxazoline-modified siloxanes, such as poly(N-propionylethyleneimine) grafted dimethylsiloxane / γ-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymer; polyvinyl acetal diethylaminoacetate; zein (the main component of zein); polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); acrylic resins, such as polyacrylonitrile resins or polymethacrylic resins; polystyrene resins; polyvinyl butyral resins; polyethylene terephthalate resins; polybutylene terephthalate resins; polyurethane resins; polyamide resins; polyimide resins; and polyamideimide resins. More preferably, the polymer solution can be or include polyvinyl butyral resin. As used herein, the term "water-insoluble polymer" may refer to a polymer having the following properties: when 1 g of the polymer is weighed and immersed in 10 g of ion-exchanged water in an environment at a pressure of 1 atmosphere and a temperature of 23° C. for 24 hours, more than 0.5 g of the immersed polymer is insoluble in the water. Optionally, the polymer solution may preferably lack suspended solids (e.g., powder). That is, the polymer solution may contain no or substantially no suspended solids (e.g., powder).

[0084] Additionally or alternatively, in one or more embodiments of the present invention, the solution may be a liquid formulation comprising the following components (a), (b), and (c): component (a) may be one or more volatile substances selected from alcohols and ketones; component (b) may be water; and component (c) may be one or more polymers having coating-forming capabilities.

[0085] Preferred examples of alcohols that can be used as the volatile substance of component (a) include chain aliphatic monohydric alcohols, cyclic aliphatic monohydric alcohols and aromatic monohydric alcohols. Specific examples thereof include ethanol, isopropanol, butanol, phenylethyl alcohol, propanol and amyl alcohol. One or more alcohols selected from these alcohols can be used. Examples of ketones used as the volatile substance of component (a) can include acetone, methyl ethyl ketone and methyl isobutyl ketone. These ketones can be used alone or in combination of two or more. The volatile substance used as component (a) can more preferably be at least one selected from ethanol, isopropanol and butanol, even more preferably at least one selected from ethanol and butanol, even more preferably ethanol. Alternatively, the solution may contain more than 70% alcohol.

[0086] In general, component (a) may be volatile and disperse or dissolve component (c). As used herein, the term "dispersed or dissolved" may refer to a state in which a substance is in a dispersed state at 20° C. and is uniformly dispersed when visually observed, and is preferably transparent or translucent when visually observed.

[0087] Component (c) may preferably be hydrophobic (water-insoluble). For example, in the case of a polymer having coating-forming ability, a suitable polymer may be used depending on the properties of the volatile substance to be used as component (a). Specifically, polymers having coating-forming ability can be roughly divided into water-soluble polymers and water-insoluble polymers. The term "water-soluble polymer" as used herein may refer to a polymer having the following properties: when 1 g of the polymer is weighed and immersed in 10 g of ion exchange water for 24 hours at a pressure of 1 atmosphere and a temperature of 23°C, more than 0.5 g of the immersed polymer is dissolved in water. On the other hand, as described above, the term "water-insoluble polymer" as used herein may refer to a polymer having the following properties: when 1 g of the polymer is weighed and immersed in 10 g of ion exchange water for 24 hours at a pressure of 1 atmosphere and a temperature of 23°C, more than 0.5 g of the immersed polymer is insoluble in water.

[0088] Examples of water-soluble polymers capable of forming a coating include naturally occurring macromolecules such as pullulan, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, poly-γ-glutamic acid, modified corn starch, β-glucan, and oligosaccharides; mucopolysaccharides such as heparin and keratin sulfate, cellulose, pectin, xylan, lignin, glucomannan, galacturonic acid, psyllium gum, tamarind gum, gum arabic, tannin gum, water-soluble soybean polysaccharides, alginic acid, carrageenan, brown alga starch, agar (agarose), fucoidan, methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose; and synthetic macromolecules such as partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol (when not used in combination with a cross-linking agent), low-saponified polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), polyethylene oxide, and sodium polyacrylate. These water-soluble polymers can be used alone or in combination of two or more. From the viewpoint of ease of coating production, among these water-soluble polymers, pullulan and synthetic polymers such as partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, low-saponified polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, and polyethylene oxide are preferably used. When polyethylene oxide is used as the water-soluble polymer, its number average molecular weight may preferably be 50,000 or more and 3,000,000 or less, and more preferably 100,000 or more and 2,500,000 or less.

[0089] On the other hand, examples of water-insoluble polymers capable of forming a coating layer include: completely saponified polyvinyl alcohol that is insoluble after coating layer formation; partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol that can be crosslinked after coating layer formation when used in combination with a crosslinking agent; oxazoline-modified siloxanes, such as poly(N-propionylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane / γ-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymer; polyvinyl acetal diethylaminoacetate; zein (the main component of zein); polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); acrylic resins, such as polyacrylonitrile resin or polymethacrylic acid resin; polystyrene resin; polyvinyl butyral resin; polyethylene terephthalate resin; polybutylene terephthalate resin; polyurethane resin; polyamide resin; polyimide resin; and polyamideimide resin. These water-insoluble polymers can be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these water-insoluble polymers, preferably used are completely saponified polyvinyl alcohol which can be insoluble after coating formation, partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol which can be cross-linked after coating formation when used in combination with a cross-linking agent, polyvinyl butyral resin, oxazoline-modified silicones such as poly(N-propionylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane / γ-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymers, water-soluble polyesters, zein, and the like.

[0090] The content of component (a) in the composition may preferably be 50% by mass or more, more preferably 55% by mass or more, even more preferably 60% by mass or more. In addition, the content of component (a) in the composition may preferably be 98% by mass or less, more preferably 96% by mass or less, even more preferably 94% by mass or less. The content of component (a) in the composition may preferably be 50% by mass or more and 98% by mass or less, more preferably 55% by mass or more and 96% by mass or less, even more preferably 60% by mass or more and 94% by mass or less. For example, when an electrospraying method is performed, when component (a) is incorporated into the composition in this ratio, the composition can be fully volatilized.

[0091] On the other hand, the content of component (c) in the composition may be preferably 4 to 34 wt %, more preferably 6 to 30 wt %, even more preferably 8 to 18 wt %. When component (c) is incorporated into the composition in this proportion, the desired coating can be successfully formed.

[0092] From the viewpoint of conductivity of the liquid preparation, component (b) may be preferably contained, and from the viewpoint of spinnability, its content may be preferably 10% or less, more preferably 5% or less, and preferably 0.5% or more relative to component (a).

[0093] For example, the composition may comprise a volatile solvent selected from alcohols and ketones, a polymer having fiber-forming ability, and water, preferably an alcohol, a water-insoluble polymer, and water, more preferably ethanol, a polymer having fiber-forming ability selected from polyvinyl butyral, polyurethane, and partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, and water. The water-insoluble polymer having fiber-forming ability may include one or more selected from the following: fully saponified polyvinyl alcohol that can be insoluble after fiber formation; partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol that can be crosslinked after fiber formation when used in combination with a crosslinking agent; oxazoline-modified silicones, such as poly(N-propionylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane / γ-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymer; polyvinyl acetal diethylaminoacetate; zein (the main component of zein); polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); acrylic resins, such as polyacrylonitrile resin or polymethacrylic resin; polystyrene resin; polyvinyl butyral resin; polyurethane resin; polyethylene terephthalate resin; polybutylene terephthalate resin; polyurethane resin; polyamide resin; polyimide resin; and polyamideimide resin. Optionally, the solution may contain more than 70% alcohol.

[0094] The water-insoluble polymer having fiber-forming ability may preferably comprise one or more of the following: partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl butyral resin, polyurethane resin, oxazoline-modified silicones such as poly(N-propionylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane / γ-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymers, water-soluble polyesters, zein, and the like, which can be cross-linked after fiber formation when used in combination with a cross-linking agent.

[0095] One or more embodiments of the present invention may be directed to cosmetic applications, such as primers / foundations, concealers, moisturizers, and stains. Of course, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to cosmetic applications. For example, one or more embodiments of the present invention may be directed to applications in deodorants, perfumes, sunscreens, creams, topical drug delivery, antimicrobial barriers and coatings, hydrophobic / hydrophilic surface treatments, antifouling coatings, tissue repair, and the like.

[0096] With reference to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 A system 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is shown. The system 100 may include a base station 200 and a handheld device 300. Optionally, the base station 200 and the handheld device 300 may be connected to each other via a transmission medium 400, which may provide power from the base station 200 to the handheld device 300 and provide communication between the base station 200 and the handheld device 300.

[0097] The transmission medium 400 can be, for example, a single transmission cable or multiple, individually insulated wired transmission lines within a plurality of separate transmission cables, wherein one wired transmission line can transmit a relatively high voltage from the base station 200 to the handheld device 300, while another transmission line(s) can provide a relatively low voltage, communication signals, and ground to the handheld device 300. Thus, in one or more embodiments, low-voltage transmission can be achieved via a low-voltage cable harness that provides power and communication to the handheld device 300 (e.g., a motor and / or controller of the handheld device 300); the ground cable can be integrated into the low-voltage cable harness, or alternatively, the ground cable can be a separate cable. Alternatively, some or all signals can be transmitted wirelessly between the base station 200 and the handheld device 300.

[0098] Typically, for electrospinning or electrospraying, the surface on which the fibers or droplets are deposited, respectively, should or must be at or near ground potential. Thus, the deposition surface, such as the user's skin, should be grounded during the electrospinning or electrospraying process. As far as the user's grounding is concerned, this can be achieved by grounding the user to the base station 200, the handheld device 300, or some other structure. For example, Figure 1As shown, the user can be grounded via a ground strap 501 attached to the user and a ground wire 500 connected to the base station 200, via a ground strap (not explicitly shown) attached to the user and a ground wire 502 connected to the handheld device 300, via a rod or plate on the handle of the handheld device 300 and optionally a ground strap attached to the user, or via a grounding path separate from the base station 200 and the handheld device 300, such as a grounding path integrated with a chair, seat, table, metal plate, or other structure. In addition, in the event that someone other than the user (e.g., a beautician) uses the handheld device 300 to apply the electrospinning or electrospraying solution to the user, the other person can also be grounded, for example, via the handheld device 300 or a separate grounding path as described above.

[0099] Base station 200 may include a control panel 202 and circuitry, which may include one or more controllers 204 and / or a power supply 206. Optionally, the circuitry may include computer-readable memory (not explicitly shown) configured to store settings and / or programming code executable by controller 204 to control power supply 206, control panel 202, and handheld device 300. In one or more embodiments, base station 200 may include a handheld device receptacle 208 configured to receive and physically hold or store handheld device 300. Optionally, base station 200 may include, for example, a timer that can be set and viewed by a user. In one or more embodiments of the present invention, base station 200 may have relatively fewer functions than those described above. For example, base station 200 may only include a handheld device receptacle 208, thereby serving merely as a holder or receiver for handheld device 300.

[0100] The control panel 202 can be configured to receive control inputs for controlling the handheld device 300 and the base station 200, for example, via the controller 204. For example, the control panel 202 can include control inputs for controlling the high voltage supplied to the handheld device 300, control inputs for controlling the motor direction of a motor (e.g., a stepper motor) in the handheld device 300, and / or control inputs for controlling the flow rate of the handheld device 300 (e.g., the motor speed of the handheld device 300). The control panel 202 can also include a power on / off control input for controlling the on / off state of the base station 200 and, optionally, whether some or all of the voltage and communication signals are supplied to the handheld device 300. The user input interface can be a knob, switch, button, touchpad, or screen, or a combination of some or all of the foregoing. Furthermore, such a user input interface can identify relatively simple, predetermined settings for various operational characteristics that a user can control via the control panel 202.

[0101] Optionally, the control panel 202 may include a display (not explicitly shown), such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a light emitting diode (LED) display, which may be a touch screen or panel as described above. The display may output information corresponding to the operating characteristics of the handheld device 300, such as flow rate, the amount of high voltage received by the handheld device 300 or otherwise applied to the solution for performing electrospinning or electrospraying, the status of the handheld device 300, the direction of the handheld device's motor, and / or whether the user is properly grounded. Additionally or alternatively, the display may output information corresponding to the operating characteristics of the base station 200, such as the amount of high voltage supplied to the handheld device 300, the on / off status, whether the base station 200 detects that the handheld device 300 is placed in the handheld device receptacle 208, and / or whether the base station 200 is powered by an internal or external power source.

[0102] The power supply 206 may be or include a relatively low voltage power source, such as from an onboard power source (e.g., one or more batteries), or an external power source (e.g., mains power (e.g., from a wall outlet), in which case the voltage would be converted from AC to a relatively low DC voltage), or 9 VDC supplied by an external battery unit. Of course, in the mains power case, the power supply 206 may have an AC / DC converter to convert the mains power to a relatively low voltage. Typically, components of the base station 200 (e.g., the control panel 202 and the controller 204) may be powered by the power supply 206, particularly at a relatively low voltage.

[0103] Optionally, power supply 206 can be or include a relatively high voltage power supply to provide a corresponding high voltage to handheld device 300. Power supply 206 can include or be coupled to a transformer that converts a relatively low voltage, such as the aforementioned 9 VDC, into a relatively high voltage, particularly a relatively high DC voltage. The high voltage should be high enough to generate an electric field capable of generating a Taylor cone in the solution, and should also provide a current supply sufficient to charge the solution and overcome parasitic losses / capacitances. Therefore, in embodiments of the present invention, power supply 206 can generate a high voltage with a current output sufficient to perform the desired electrospinning or electrospraying operation. The high DC voltage can preferably be about 14 kV DC; more preferably, about 6 kV DC to about 30 kV DC; even more preferably, about 11 kV DC to about 14 kV DC; and most preferably, about 10 kV DC to about 16 kV DC. Optionally, a control panel 202 may be used to control the high voltage, for example, preferably about 6 kV DC to about 30 kV DC; even more preferably about 11 kV DC to about 14 kV DC; even more preferably about 10 kV DC to about 16 kV DC.

[0104] For example, under the control of the control panel 202 and the controller 204, a relatively high voltage HV may be supplied to the handheld device 300 via the transmission medium 400. Furthermore, the relatively high voltage may be supplied to the handheld device 300 to generate an electric field (EF) in and around a solution contained in the handheld device 300, thereby outputting the solution in the form of electrospinning or electrospraying. Alternatively, a high voltage power supply may be provided in the handheld device 300.

[0105] Incidentally, transmission medium 400 (or a portion thereof) can be removably coupled to base station 200. Thus, different handheld devices, such as handheld device 300, can be coupled to the same base station 200. Control panel 202 can control settings, configurations, and the like based on the specific handheld device coupled to base station 200. Alternatively, base station 200 can detect the type of handheld device and automatically set some or all settings, configurations, and the like based on the detected type. Alternatively, base station 200 can display options through control panel 202, allowing the user to set settings, configurations, and the like based on the specific type of handheld device. Similarly, ground wire 500 can be removably coupled to base station 200.

[0106] Alternatively, system 100 may include handheld device 300 without base station 200. That is, in one or more embodiments, components of base station 200 may be implemented in handheld device 300, allowing handheld device 300 to operate entirely as a standalone electrospinning or electrospraying device. For example, handheld device 300 may include a power supply for providing high voltage (HV) to perform the electrospinning or electrospraying process, as well as a power supply for providing a relatively low voltage (e.g., 9 VDC) to power other components of handheld device 300 (e.g., a motor of handheld device 300). Alternatively, for example, transmission medium 400 may still be coupled to handheld device 300 to provide power from a mains supply (e.g., a wall outlet). Of course, in the latter case, transmission medium 400 may not need to accommodate the relatively high voltage, as such high voltage is now provided by handheld device 300. Alternatively, handheld device 300 may be powered locally using one or more batteries directly coupled to or within handheld device 300.

[0107] Handheld device 300 may include a main body assembly 310 and an output assembly 350. For example, output assembly 350 may be removably coupled to main body assembly 310 using one or more snap-fit ​​connections. Output assembly 350 may have an outlet or nozzle 352, or alternatively, be coupled to a nozzle. Alternatively, whether nozzle 352 is considered part of output assembly 350 or a separate component, such nozzle 352 may be removably coupled to main body assembly 310. Typically, a user may provide control inputs to main body assembly 310 to generate a high voltage HV, thereby applying a corresponding electric field in and around a solution in output assembly 350, causing the solution to be output from nozzle 352 in an electrospinning or electrospraying manner.

[0108] The main body assembly 310 can be considered a durable good, while the output assembly 350 can be considered a consumable good, because the main body assembly 310 can be used repeatedly, while part or all of the output assembly 350 can be consumed and therefore replaced. Of course, the main body assembly 310 itself can have consumable parts, such as one or more batteries. In other words, the "consumable" portion of the handheld device 300 can be implemented in one of two ways: a single-use configuration, in which the entire output assembly 350 is removable and replaceable with another entire output assembly 350; and a multiple-use configuration, in which only a portion of the output assembly 350, such as the consumable housing (e.g., an ampoule) or its solution container portion, is removable and replaceable with another consumable housing or solution container portion.

[0109] Output assembly 350 can contain a solution, for example, in a container (e.g., an ampoule, a cartridge, etc.). When the container is empty or if another type of solution is desired, the entire output assembly 350 can be removed from body assembly 310 and another output assembly 350 can be placed in its place. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, only a portion of output assembly 350, such as the container, can be replaced.

[0110] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view of a non-limiting example of a handheld device 600 (ie, a portable handheld device) configured to output an electrospinning or electrospraying solution stored in the handheld device 600 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A More specifically, Figure 2B The portion shown in may represent a lock.

[0111] Handheld device 600 may include a main body assembly 610 and an output assembly 650. The output assembly may have or be coupled to an output end or nozzle 652. That is, nozzle 652 may be part of output assembly 650 or considered a separate component from nozzle 652. Optionally, main body assembly 610 may be coupled to transmission medium 400, which in turn may be coupled to a base station, such as base station 200.

[0112] The main assembly 610 may include a housing 611, a user control interface 612, a drive unit that may include a motor 614 and an actuator 616, a high-voltage (HV) connector 624 configured to provide high voltage (HV) to the output assembly 650, and circuitry 618 configured to control various aspects, operations, and functions of the main assembly 610 and the handheld device 600 as a whole. Optionally, the main assembly 610 may have a distance sensor 620 configured to determine the distance between the handheld device 600 (e.g., the nozzle tip 670) and the deposition surface. Optionally, the main assembly 610 may have a solution level detector 622. Optionally, the main assembly 610 may have a consumable portion detector configured to detect whether the output assembly 650 is properly connected to the main assembly 610. Optionally, the body assembly 610 may have a light source 628 configured to output light for a feedback indicator (e.g., feedback indicator 657 of the output assembly 650); additionally or alternatively, the body assembly 610 may have one or more feedback indicators of its own configured to provide visual and / or auditory feedback to the user. Optionally, the body assembly 610 may have a tactile feedback mechanism 630 configured to provide tactile feedback (e.g., vibration and / or tapping) to the user. The components of the body assembly 610 are described in more detail below. The feedback indicator 657 may be based on a signal from the distance sensor 620. Alternatively, a vision-based system may be used as so-called feedback to determine the appropriate distance of the handheld device 600, and in particular, the nozzle tip 670, from the deposition surface. The vision-based system may implement intersecting light (e.g., laser light) to help the user identify the appropriate positioning of the nozzle tip 670 relative to the deposition surface.

[0113] Output assembly 650 may include a housing 651; a feedback indicator 657; a conductive rod 654; a high-voltage connector 656; a consumable housing 658, which may include a plug 659 and a solution container 660 for holding a solution; a needle electrode 662; and, of course, a nozzle 652. Optionally, output assembly 650 may also include an electrode 665, which may be a disk electrode, a plate electrode, or a flange electrode (hereinafter referred to as "disk electrode 665"). As described herein, needle electrode 662 may be referred to as the primary electrode, while disk electrode 665 may be considered an auxiliary electrode. The components of output assembly 650 are described in more detail below.

[0114] The following paragraphs provide a more detailed description of selected components of body assembly 610.

[0115] The user control interface 612 of the main body assembly 610 can be in the form of a trigger or switch (in Figure 2A), for example, a tactile switch or trigger. The user control interface 612 can be activated by a user input (e.g., a finger or thumb of a user) to activate the handheld device 600. Specifically, the user control interface 612 can be activated by the user to activate the motor 614 to output the solution to and from the nozzle 652, or to activate the high voltage HV to generate a corresponding electric field for applying to the solution, or to activate both. Typically, for example, the user control interface 612 can be set far enough away from the nozzle 652 to prevent interference. As a non-limiting example, the user control interface 612 can be approximately 44 mm away from the nozzle 652.

[0116] Alternatively, user control interface 612 may be a multi-level user interface, such as a half-press / full-press tactile switch or trigger. Thus, for example, the first level may be to check the settings of handheld device 600, for example, to determine whether handheld device 600 is properly positioned relative to the deposition surface (e.g., the user's skin), i.e., not too far and / or not too close. In other words, the first level may be used to adjust the depth of handheld device 600 before delivering the electrospun or electrosprayed solution. The second level may be to induce the delivery of the electrospun or electrosprayed solution by controlling motor 614 and applying high voltage to the solution and its surroundings.

[0117] Typically, too far can be defined as greater than about 120 mm, preferably greater than about 110 mm. For example, about 110 mm to about 120 mm can be considered too far, while greater than 120 mm can be considered risky too far, for example, where unqualified or defective electrospraying or electrospinning can occur. Typically, too close can be defined as closer than about 30 mm, preferably about 40 mm or closer. For example, about 30 mm to about 40 mm can be considered too close, while closer than about 30 mm can be considered risky too close, for example, with respect to the high voltage HV relative to the deposition surface. Thus, acceptable thresholds can be, for example, about 40 mm to about 50 mm and / or about 100 mm to about 110 mm, preferably about 50 mm to about 100 mm.

[0118] Optionally, the handheld device 600 may output an indicator, such as a light of a specific color, depending on one or more settings of the handheld device 600. When the user activates the second level of the user control interface 612, the solution may be output from the nozzle 652. Optionally, the second level may also activate application of high pressure HV to the solution, as described above.

[0119] The motor 614 of the driving portion can be, for example, a stepper motor, which drives an actuator 616 that can be a linear actuator. The motor 614 and the actuator 616 can be controlled based on the operation of the user control interface 612. In general, the actuation of the actuator 616 can drive the plunger relative to the solution container (described in more detail later) so that the solution is output from the solution container 660 to the nozzle 652 to be applied with a high voltage HV and output from the nozzle 652 as an electrospinning or electrospraying solution. Alternatively, for example, the motor can be programmed using a circuit 618. This programming can provide different flow profiles used based on specific application conditions, such as the environment, the type of solution applied, the high voltage HV applied, etc. Optionally, the actuator 616 can be controlled before the electrospinning or electrospraying operation to initialize the handheld device 600 by removing air from the solution flow path.

[0120] The motor 614 and actuator 616 may not provide back suction. That is, in one or more embodiments, back suction of the solution may not be provided. Alternatively, the motor 614 and actuator 616 may be controlled to provide back suction, for example, for a predetermined duration. The predetermined duration may be preferably about 0.1 seconds, more preferably about 0.5 seconds, after the solution is stopped from being discharged from the nozzle 652.

[0121] The circuit 618 may include: a power supply (not explicitly shown) that can provide low voltage and high voltage to various components of the handheld device 600; and a high voltage HV connector 624 that is configured to provide high voltage HV to the output component 350 to generate a corresponding electric field for application to the solution at the nozzle 652.

[0122] Alternatively, at least a portion of the circuit 618 may be implemented as a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may be, for example, Figure 2A Alternatively, the PCB may be arranged in output assembly 650. This arrangement may facilitate the placement of a distance sensor, such as distance sensor 620, and / or a handheld device status indicator as part of output assembly 650. Furthermore, in this case, the PCB may not be removed from output assembly 650. That is, in this case, a portion of output assembly 650 (e.g., the solution container) may be removed and replaced.

[0123] High-voltage (HV) connector 624 may be a spring-loaded pin connector operable to supply high-voltage (HV) thereto only when output assembly 650 is properly coupled to main assembly 610. That is, the spring-loaded pin connector may contact the female component of circuit 618 to substantially complete or close the high-voltage circuit, and may disconnect from the female component to disconnect the high-voltage circuit when output assembly 650 is not coupled to main assembly 610.

[0124] The circuit 618 may also include a solution level detector 622. Alternatively, the solution level detector 622 may be considered as one or more components separate from the circuit 618. The solution level detector 622 may include or be implemented using a Hall effect sensor array, such as Figure 2A As shown in .

[0125] For example, the Hall effect sensor array can detect the position of actuator 616. By way of example, a 100% liquid level can be detected as the home position of actuator 616, a 15% liquid level can be detected as 15% remaining from the end position of actuator 616, and a liquid level of approximately 0% or approximately 1% can be detected as the end position of actuator 616 (i.e., reaching full travel). Optionally, when 1% or 0% is detected, actuator 616 can be controlled to retract, for example, to the home position, and / or user control interface 612 can be disabled. This control can be performed using circuit 618. Various indicators on handheld device 600 can be used to identify the detected fill status or level of solution container 660. For example, when the detected liquid level is above a predetermined threshold, an indicator, such as a light source, can be continuously illuminated. Alternatively, the light source can additionally or alternatively output a specific color indicating the liquid level. When the detected liquid level is at or below a threshold (and optionally above another threshold), the indicator can change. For example, the indicator can pulse. In this case, the color of the light may change, or alternatively, the color may remain constant. When the detected liquid level reaches another threshold, the indicator may change. For example, the indicator may pulse faster and / or change color. The foregoing is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the liquid level indications or corresponding actions that may be provided based on the detected liquid level according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0126] The circuit 618 may also include a distance sensor 620. Alternatively, the distance sensor 620 may be considered as one or more components separate from the circuit 618. The distance sensor 620 may be, for example, Figure 2A. Alternatively, the distance sensor 620 may be provided in or on the output assembly 650. In general, the distance sensor 620 may determine the distance of the handheld device 600 (e.g., nozzle 652) from the deposition surface. A signal from the distance sensor 620 may be provided to control the operation of the handheld device 600. For example, the signal from the distance sensor 620 may be provided to the circuit 618 to control (e.g., disable) the motor 614 and / or the user control interface 612. That is, optionally, based on the signal from the distance sensor 620, the handheld device 600 may automatically cut off the high voltage HV supply to the electrode. This control may be performed when the signal from the distance sensor 620 indicates that the position of the handheld device 600 is too far and / or too close to the deposition surface. The signal from the distance sensor 620 may also be processed by the circuit 618 to identify whether the handheld device 600 is properly positioned relative to the deposition surface, and thus allow the handheld device 600 to operate to output the electrospinning or electrospraying solution to the deposition surface.

[0127] The main body assembly 610 may also have a consumable detector 626, which may include a switch. Optionally, the consumable detector 626 may be part of the circuit 618. Alternatively, the consumable detector 626 may be considered to be one or more components separate from the circuit 618. The consumable detector 626 may detect whether the output assembly 650 is properly connected to the main body assembly 610. For example, when the output assembly 650 is properly connected to the main body assembly 610, the consumable detector 626 may output one or more signals to indicate that the output assembly 650 is coupled to the main body assembly 610. Optionally, such a signal may control a feedback indicator 657 on the main body assembly 610 and / or the output assembly 650 to output an indication of the correct coupling. Additionally or alternatively, such a signal may allow activation of the user control interface 612 and / or the high voltage HV supply to the electrodes. Conversely, the lack of a signal may result in deactivation of the user control interface 612 and / or the high voltage HV supply to the electrodes. Optionally, the consumable detector 626 includes or is coupled to a safety locking pin 627 ( Figure 4 The safety locking pin is configured to engage with a corresponding socket (not shown) of the main assembly 610 to better ensure that the output assembly 650 is in position relative to the main assembly 610 before the high voltage HV is activated and provided to the output assembly 650. Figure 4 A safety lock is shown in the form of a locking pin 627, but such a safety lock may take other forms, such as a flange, shoulder, corner, and / or edge key geometry. Additionally or alternatively, the safety lock may optionally include a pressing member 633 and a pressed member 635, such as Figure 2B Typically, when properly connected to the main assembly 310, the pressing member 633 (eg, a pin) on the output assembly 350 can contact and press the pressed member 635 to displace the pressed member 635, thereby completing a circuit for supplying high voltage.

[0128] The main assembly 610 may have a light source 628, such as one or more lamps. Optionally, the light source 628 may include one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). Optionally, the light source 628 may be part of the circuit 618. Alternatively, the light source 628 may be considered to be one or more components separate from the circuit 618. The light source 628 may be configured to output light in a controlled manner to an indicator that may be provided as part of the main assembly 610 or as part of the output assembly 650, such as Figure 2A In addition, the light source 628 can be controlled to output light, for example, a specific color and / or consistency, based on signals from the consumable portion detector 626, the distance sensor 620, and / or the user control interface 612. Alternatively, the light source 628 can output light of a different color each time based on signals from the consumable portion detector 626, the distance sensor 620, and / or the user control interface 612.

[0129] Optionally, the main body assembly 610 may include a tactile feedback mechanism 630. For example, the tactile feedback mechanism may include a vibration motor. The tactile feedback mechanism 630 may provide feedback in the form of vibration and / or tapping. For example, such feedback may be based on how far the handheld device 600 is detected from the deposition surface as sensed by the distance sensor 620. For example, when the handheld device 600 exceeds a first predetermined distance threshold, the tactile feedback mechanism 630 may begin to provide feedback. When a second predetermined distance threshold is exceeded, the tactile feedback mechanism 630 may switch to different feedback. For example, the tactile feedback mechanism may begin to vibrate when the first predetermined distance threshold is exceeded, and then vibrate more strongly when the second predetermined distance threshold is exceeded, or vibrate according to a different pattern. In addition, the predetermined distance threshold may be based on the direction of movement of the handheld device 600 toward the deposition surface, or the direction of movement of the handheld device 600 away from the deposition surface.

[0130] The following sections provide a more detailed description of selected components of the output assembly 650. In addition, reference may be made to the following sections which illustrate various aspects of the output assembly 650 in greater detail. Figures 4 to 7 .

[0131] As described above, the output assembly 650 may include a housing 651; a feedback indicator 657; a conductive rod 654; a high voltage connector 656; a consumable housing 658, which may include a plug 659 and a solution container 660 for holding a solution; a needle electrode 662; optionally, a nozzle 652; and optionally, a disk electrode 665. Figures 3 to 7 Output assembly 650 is shown in greater detail.

[0132] like Figure 3As shown, the output assembly 650 can be removably coupled (i.e., connected and disconnected) to the main assembly 610 using, for example, one or more snap-fit ​​or clip-type connections. For example, when the solution container 660 in the replaced output assembly 650 is empty or has decreased to a predetermined level, the output assembly 650 can be removed and replaced with another output assembly 650. Figure 6 An example of a clip-type connector 655 (opposing connector not shown) is shown that can be received by a corresponding receptacle of body assembly 610. Connector 655 (and its opposing connector) can be pressed inward to release output assembly 650 from body assembly 610.

[0133] The combination of the output assembly 650 and the main assembly 610 can provide power, particularly high voltage HV, to the output assembly 650 to generate an electric field applied to the solution, thereby outputting the solution in an electrospinning or electrospraying manner. In particular, a suitable combination of the output assembly 650 and the main assembly 610 can include one end of a conductive rod 654 being received by the HV connector 624, and the conductive rod 654 can be made of a conductive material, such as a metal (e.g., stainless steel, brass), so that the high voltage HV can be provided to the conductive rod 654, and thus to the needle electrode 662 and the disk electrode 665 (when present), because the conductive rod 654 can be in contact with the disk electrode 665, for example, using a spring-loaded connection. Optionally, when the high voltage HV is supplied to the HV connector 624, the high voltage can be supplied continuously, that is, without pulsating or changing during a particular electrospinning or electrospraying operation. Of course, the high voltage HV supplied to the HV connector 624 can be changed from one electrospinning / electrospray operation to another, for example, by using the control panel 202 of the base station 200. In addition, the boss of the actuator 616 can be received in a recess of the consumable housing 658 so that the boss abuts the plug 659 and can act on the plug 659 to move the plug 659 within the consumable housing 658 and output the solution to the needle electrode 662 and out of the nozzle 652.

[0134] The output assembly 650 may have a feedback indicator 657. Additionally or alternatively, the feedback indicator 657 may be part of the main assembly 610. The feedback indicator 657 may be configured to provide a visual output to the user, such as a status or characteristic of the handheld device 600. For example, the feedback indicator 657 may include an optical path 653 operably coupled to the light source 628 such that light from the light source 628 is output at the feedback indicator 657. Additionally or alternatively, one or more additional feedback indicators (not shown) may be provided to provide feedback in the form of audio feedback. For example, one or more speakers may be provided. The circuit 618 may be configured to output a stored pre-recorded message regarding the status of the handheld device 600, such as whether the handheld device 600 is correctly positioned with respect to the distance from the deposition surface, whether the solution container 660 is empty, whether the handheld device 600 is ready (or not ready) for electrospinning or electrospraying operations, and the like.

[0135] The consumable housing 658 may include a plug 659 and a solution container 660 containing the solution. As described above, the boss of the actuator 616 may be received in a recess in the consumable housing 658 so that the boss abuts the plug 659. The boss may act on the plug 659 by movement of the actuator 616 to move the plug 659 within the consumable housing 658 and force the solution toward and into the needle electrode 662 and ultimately out of the nozzle 652. The solution may be stored in the consumable housing 658 in a manner that limits exposure to the atmosphere until use. For example, when the solution is to be used, the rear portion of the needle electrode 662 may pierce an airtight membrane or film on the opening to the solution container 660 to form a fluid path between the body of solution and the output end of the nozzle 652 through the needle electrode 662.

[0136] Optionally, when consumable housing 658 is emptied of solution or the amount of solution detected is below a predetermined level, for example, it can be replaced with another consumable housing 658 within housing 651. Additionally or alternatively, the entire output assembly 650 can be removed from the main body assembly 610 and replaced with another output assembly, such as another output assembly 650.

[0137] The needle electrode 662 can be hollow, as described above, and can be electrically conductive. Thus, the needle electrode 662 can serve both as a fluid path for the solution and as a conductive surface to allow charge generated by the electric field induced by the high voltage HV to be injected into the solution. More specifically, the needle electrode 662, which can be part of the nozzle 652, can be hollow so as to receive the solution from the solution container 660 and discharge the solution at or immediately in front of the nozzle tip 670. Generally, the flow path formed by the needle electrode and the nozzle tip 670 can be formed from a material that does not, or substantially does not, react chemically or physicochemically with the solution in any substantial manner.

[0138] Alternatively, no resistor may be provided in the path of the high voltage HV for the needle electrode 662, for example Figure 5 Optionally, the needle electrode 662 may be retracted from the nozzle tip 670 by a retraction amount SB, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 and Figure 7 As shown in the right figure of FIG. In one or more embodiments, the needle electrode 662 may be retracted SB from the nozzle tip 670 by preferably about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm, more preferably about 2.5 mm, and even more preferably about 1.5 mm. This retraction SB of the needle electrode 662 can reduce lateral dispersion of the electrospinning solution, which can make the electrospun fiber web more targeted.

[0139] Optionally, in one or more embodiments, for example, in FIG. 2 to FIG. Figure 7 In the embodiment shown, the disk electrode 665 may be provided as part of the output assembly 650 or as part of the nozzle 652 if the nozzle 652 is considered a separate component from the output assembly 650. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the disk electrode 665 may not be provided and only the needle electrode 662 may be provided. Optionally, the high voltage HV paths to the needle electrode 662 and the disk electrode 665 may be different, such as Figure 5 Alternatively, no resistor may be provided in the path of the high voltage HV for the disk electrode 665, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 In addition, the polarity of the disk electrode 665 can be the same as that of the needle electrode 662. The electric field generated by the disk electrode 665 can be considered as an electric field separate from the electric field of the needle electrode 662, which can reduce the lateral dispersion of the electrospinning solution, which can make the electrospun fiber web more targeted.

[0140] The nozzle 652 can be, for example, Figure 7 The threaded connection shown is removed from the housing 651. Thus, different nozzles can be implemented depending on the desired electrospinning or electrospraying characteristics. In addition, the nozzle 652 can be made of an insulating material or a material with an appropriate dielectric constant to electrically insulate the needle electrode 662. For example, in one or more embodiments of the present invention, a bushing / sheath 671 can be provided for the needle electrode 662, wherein the bushing / sheath 671 can extend beyond the tip of the needle electrode 662 on one side and extend to the other end of the needle electrode 662 on the other side, for example, to the disk electrode 665 (where a disk electrode 665 is provided). Such a bushing / sheath 671 can be, for example, a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) bushing / sheath and, for example, in the case of electrospinning, can prevent or minimize the solution from adhering to or blocking the nozzle at the point where the Taylor cone is formed. Optionally, as Figure 7 As shown, a portion of the nozzle 652 may be formed from a first non-conductive material (eg, PTFE), and a portion of the nozzle 652 that is removably coupled to the housing 651 may be formed from a second non-conductive material (eg, polypropylene (PP)).

[0141] Figure 8 is a basic flow chart of method 800 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0142] At 802, method 800 may include providing a device or system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, the providing step at 802 may include replacing a solution in the device or system. For example, according to embodiments described herein, an entire output assembly may be coupled to a body assembly, such output assembly containing the desired solution to be output from the device or system. As another example, only a container (e.g., an ampoule, cartridge, etc.) of the output assembly containing the desired solution may be provided, for example, to be replaced when empty or when a change in solution type is desired.

[0143] At 804, method 800 may include using a provided device or system, for example, as described herein. Such using step may include depositing the solution on a deposition surface, for example, the skin of a user. Optionally, the electrosprayed or electrospun solution may be deposited on a cosmetic product that has already been applied to the skin. Alternatively, the electrosprayed or electrospun solution may be deposited directly on the skin. Optionally, another layer (or layers), for example, a cosmetic product layer, may be provided on the solution deposited directly on the skin. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the deposited electrosprayed or electrospun solution may form part of a so-called multilayer application, either as a base layer or as a higher layer, such as an intermediate layer or an outer layer.

[0144] At 806, method 800 may include replacing the solution of the device or system, for example, when the solution is depleted or when it is simply desired to change the type of solution. As described above, the entire output assembly may be replaced to change the solution, or alternatively, only the container (e.g., ampoule, cartridge, etc.) of the output assembly containing the desired solution may be replaced to change the solution.

[0145] Embodiments of the present invention can provide an electrospinning or electrospraying technique that is functionally independent of the orientation of a solution delivery device, particularly a portable, handheld solution delivery device, and can be positioned to deliver solutions onto deposition surfaces in relatively challenging areas (e.g., particularly challenging areas of the human body). Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention can provide a modular construction, thereby allowing for a variety of physical configurations, solution types, and / or solution delivery characteristics. Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention can allow for easy replacement of solutions without contamination between samples.

[0146] Embodiments of the present invention may be further described with reference to the additional descriptions in the following paragraphs.

[0147] (1) A portable handheld device for electrospinning or electrospraying a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface, the device comprising: a durable portion; and a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion, wherein the consumable portion comprises: a hollow nozzle configured to output a solution from its nozzle tip, the hollow nozzle having a hollow electrode, the hollow electrode defining a first portion of a flow path for the solution to the outside of the device, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path; and a housing configured to accommodate a predetermined maximum volume of solution and output the solution to the hollow electrode, wherein the durable portion comprises: a drive mechanism configured to cause the solution to be output from the housing to the hollow electrode; and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the drive mechanism and control the application of high voltage to the hollow electrode to generate an electric field for applying to the solution, thereby electrospinning or electrospraying the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface, and wherein the circuit is configured to provide high voltage to the hollow electrode.

[0148] (2) The device according to (1), wherein the distal end of the hollow electrode is set back or recessed from the nozzle tip.

[0149] (3) The device according to (1) or (2), wherein the setback or recessed amount is about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm from the nozzle tip.

[0150] (4) The device according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein the solution is a polymer solution in the form of a water-insoluble polymer having coating-forming ability.

[0151] (5) The device according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein the solution is a cosmetic formulation.

[0152] (6) The device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the high voltage is supplied directly or indirectly to the hollow electrode.

[0153] (7) The device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the high voltage is supplied to the hollow electrode without passing through a resistor.

[0154] (8) The device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the housing configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of solution includes a solution container holding the predetermined maximum volume of solution, which is removable from the housing and replaceable with another solution container.

[0155] (9) The device according to any one of (1) to (8), further comprising a ground path for grounding a user of the device.

[0156] (10) The device according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein the consumable portion further includes an auxiliary electrode configured to receive a high voltage from the circuit.

[0157] (11) The device according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein the auxiliary electrode is in the form of a disk, a plate, or a flange.

[0158] (12) The device according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein the housing configured to accommodate a predetermined maximum volume of the solution is an ampoule.

[0159] (13) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (12), wherein the durable portion includes a housing that houses the drive mechanism and provides a user control interface, the durable portion is configured to be held by a user in one hand, and when held by the user in one hand, the user control interface can be operated by the user's fingers or thumb.

[0160] (14) The apparatus according to any one of (1) to (13), wherein the apparatus is configured to receive the high voltage from a base station remote from the apparatus via a transmission medium.

[0161] (15) The device according to any one of (1) to (14), wherein the transmission medium is a flexible cable or wire comprising an electrical transmission harness including at least one high-voltage electrical transmission line configured to transmit the high voltage from the base station to the device.

[0162] (16) The device according to any one of (1) to (15), further comprising a base station including a socket configured to receive and store the device.

[0163] (17) The device of any one of (1) to (16), wherein the user control interface is configured to operate the device in at least two operating states.

[0164] (18) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (17), wherein the first operating state is a dormant ("off") state, in which the drive mechanism is not powered and the apparatus does not provide high voltage or high voltage is not provided to the apparatus; wherein the second operating state is a start-up ("start-up") state, in which the drive mechanism is enabled and the apparatus does not provide high voltage or high voltage is not provided to the apparatus, and / or wherein the third operating state is an activated ("activated") state, in which the drive mechanism is enabled and high voltage is provided to the hollow electrode.

[0165] (19) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (18), wherein, in a third operating state, when high voltage is supplied to the hollow electrode, the driving mechanism pushes the solution from the housing via the hollow electrode toward the nozzle tip, and the solution is electrospun at the nozzle tip of the hollow nozzle.

[0166] (20) The device of any one of (1) to (19), wherein the consumable portion is removably coupled to the durable portion, and the consumable portion can be removed from the durable portion to be replaced with another consumable portion.

[0167] (21) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (20), wherein the durable portion includes a first shell, and the consumable portion includes a second shell different from the first shell, and the second shell of the consumable portion can be removed from the first shell of the durable portion and can be reinstalled to the first shell of the durable portion.

[0168] (22) The device of any one of (1) to (21), wherein the user control interface comprises one of a trigger, a tactile switch, and a tactile button.

[0169] (23) The device according to any one of (1) to (22), wherein the trigger, tactile switch, or tactile button is configured to operate the device according to a plurality of operating states other than the non-operating state.

[0170] (24) The device according to any one of (1) to (23), wherein the durable portion includes a high-voltage power supply configured to output a high voltage.

[0171] (25) The device according to any one of (1) to (24), wherein the durable portion includes a low-voltage power supply.

[0172] (26) The device of any one of (1) to (25), wherein the consumable portion includes a housing and a hollow nozzle, the hollow nozzle being removably coupled to the housing so that the hollow nozzle can be removed from the housing.

[0173] (27) The device according to any one of (1) to (26), further comprising an insulating sheath surrounding a portion of the hollow electrode, including the distal end of the hollow electrode.

[0174] (28) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (27), wherein the circuit is configured to implement the preset of one or more operating parameters of the apparatus, the one or more operating parameters including: high voltage, operating current corresponding to the high voltage, driving speed of the driving mechanism, and driving direction of the driving mechanism.

[0175] (29) The device according to any one of (1) to (28), wherein the drive mechanism is a linear actuator or includes a linear actuator.

[0176] (30) The device according to any one of (1) to (29), wherein the drive mechanism is a stepping motor or includes a stepping motor.

[0177] (31) The device according to any one of (1) to (30), wherein the drive mechanism is a positive displacement mechanism or includes a positive displacement mechanism.

[0178] (32) The device according to any one of (1) to (31), wherein the consumable portion further includes an auxiliary electrode configured to receive a high voltage, the auxiliary electrode surrounding a portion of the hollow electrode.

[0179] (33) The device according to any one of (1) to (32), wherein the auxiliary electrode is in the form of a disk, a plate, or a flange.

[0180] (34) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (33), wherein control of the driving mechanism and the voltage amount of the high voltage causes one or more of the volume of the electrospun fibers output by the apparatus, the dispersion of the electrospun fibers output by the apparatus, and the size of the electrospun fibers output by the apparatus to change.

[0181] (35) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (34), wherein the circuit is configured to detect a distance state of the apparatus based on a signal from a position sensor configured to sense the position of the nozzle tip relative to the deposition surface, and to perform one or more of the following operations: disabling the drive mechanism and the high voltage supply to the hollow electrode, enabling or re-enabling the drive mechanism and the high voltage supply to the hollow electrode, and activating at least one indication to a user of the detected distance state.

[0182] (36) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (35), wherein the circuit is configured to detect a distance state of the apparatus based on a signal from a position sensor configured to sense a position of the nozzle tip relative to a deposition surface, and output one or more indicators to a user based on the sensed or detected characteristics of the apparatus.

[0183] (37) The device of any one of (1) to (36), wherein at least the indicator includes a user-visible light specific to the detected distance state.

[0184] (38) An apparatus according to any one of (1) to (37), wherein the circuit is configured to switch between an operating state and a non-operating state of the apparatus based on a sensed distance from the nozzle tip to the deposition surface.

[0185] (39) The device according to any one of (1) to (38), wherein the circuit includes a liquid level detector configured to detect the amount of solution in the housing.

[0186] (40) The device of any one of (1) to (39), wherein the circuit is configured to output a visual indication corresponding to the detected amount of solution in the housing.

[0187] (41) The device of any one of (1) to (40), wherein the circuit includes a tactile feedback mechanism configured to provide feedback to the user when the user grasps the durable portion.

[0188] (42) The device according to any one of (1) to (41), wherein the tactile feedback is at least one of vibration and tapping.

[0189] (43) The device according to any one of (1) to (42), wherein the solution is a polymer solution in the form of a water-insoluble polymer having coating-forming ability.

[0190] (44) A device according to any one of (1) to (43), wherein the water-insoluble polymer having the ability to form a coating is selected from: completely saponified polyvinyl alcohol that does not dissolve after the coating is formed; partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol that crosslinks after the coating is formed when used in combination with a crosslinking agent; oxazoline-modified silicones, including poly(N-propionylethyleneimine) grafted dimethylsiloxane / γ-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymers; polyvinyl acetal diethylaminoacetate; zein (the main component of zein); polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); acrylic resins, including polyacrylonitrile resins or polymethacrylic resins; polystyrene resins; polyvinyl butyral resins; polyethylene terephthalate resins; polybutylene terephthalate resins; polyurethane resins; polyamide resins; polyimide resins; polyamideimide resins; and polyvinyl butyral resins.

[0191] (45) The device according to any one of (1) to (44), wherein the solution is a liquid preparation comprising the following components: (a) one or more volatile substances selected from alcohols and ketones; (b) water; and (c) one or more polymers having coating-forming ability.

[0192] (46) The apparatus according to any one of (1) to (45), wherein the alcohol comprises one or more of a linear aliphatic monoalcohol, one or more cyclic aliphatic monoalcohols and / or one or more aromatic monoalcohols, and wherein the ketone comprises one or more of acetone, methyl ethyl ketone and methyl isobutyl ketone.

[0193] (47) The device according to any one of (1) to (46), wherein the alcohol contains at least one selected from ethanol, isopropanol, and butanol.

[0194] (48) The device according to any one of (1) to (47), wherein the alcohol contains at least one selected from ethanol and butanol.

[0195] (49) The device according to any one of (1) to (48), wherein the alcohol comprises ethanol.

[0196] (50) A portable handheld device for electrospinning a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface, the device comprising: a durable portion; and a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion, wherein the consumable portion comprises: a hollow nozzle configured to output the solution from its nozzle tip, the hollow nozzle having a hollow electrode, the hollow electrode defining a first portion of a flow path for the solution to the outside of the device, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path, the hollow electrode configured to output a high voltage received through a first conductive path; another electrode configured to output a high voltage received through a second conductive path different from the first conductive path; and a housing configured to accommodate a predetermined maximum volume of solution and output the solution to the hollow electrode, wherein the durable portion comprises: a drive mechanism configured to cause the solution to be output from the housing to the hollow electrode; and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the drive mechanism and control the application of high voltage to the hollow electrode and the application of high voltage to the other electrode to generate an electric field for applying to the solution, thereby electrospinning the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface, and wherein the circuit is configured to provide high voltage to the hollow electrode and the other electrode.

[0197] (51) The device according to (50), wherein the other electrode is one of a conductive disk, a conductive plate, or a conductive flange.

[0198] (52) The device according to (50) or (51), wherein the other electrode and the hollow electrode are coaxially arranged, and the other electrode has a channel through which the hollow electrode passes.

[0199] (53) The device according to any one of (50) to (52), wherein the other electrode and the hollow electrode are electrically connected to each other.

[0200] (54) The device according to any one of (50) to (53), wherein the high voltage supplied to the other electrode is different from the high voltage supplied to the hollow electrode.

[0201] (55) The device according to any one of (50) to (54), wherein the other electrode and the hollow electrode are electrically insulated or isolated from each other.

[0202] (56) The device according to any one of (50) to (55), wherein the distal end of the hollow electrode is set back or recessed from the nozzle tip.

[0203] (57) The device of any one of (50) to (56), wherein the setback or recessed amount is approximately 2.5 mm from the nozzle tip.

[0204] (58) The device according to any one of (50) to (57), wherein the solution is a cosmetic formulation.

[0205] (59) The device according to any one of (50) to (58), wherein a high voltage is supplied directly or indirectly to the hollow electrode and the other electrode.

[0206] (60) An apparatus according to any one of (50) to (59), wherein the high voltage is supplied to the hollow electrode without passing through a resistor in the consumable part, and wherein the high voltage is supplied to the other electrode without passing through a resistor in the consumable part.

[0207] (61) The device according to any one of (50) to (60), wherein the other electrode is arranged between the distal end of the hollow electrode and the shell.

[0208] (62) The device according to any one of (50) to (61), wherein the other electrode and the hollow electrode are configured to operate with the same polarity.

[0209] (63) An apparatus according to any one of (50) to (62), wherein the other electrode and the hollow electrode are configured to receive high voltage simultaneously to simultaneously generate their respective electric fields or electric field portions.

[0210] (64) The device according to any one of (50) to (63), wherein the other electrode is configured to apply an electric potential gradient to the solution at the hollow nozzle.

[0211] (65) The device according to any one of (50) to (64), wherein the solution is a polymer solution.

[0212] (66) The device according to any one of (50) to (65), wherein the polymer solution is in the form of a water-insoluble polymer having coating-forming ability.

[0213] (67) A device according to any one of (50) to (66), wherein the water-insoluble polymer having the ability to form a coating is selected from: completely saponified polyvinyl alcohol that does not dissolve after the coating is formed; partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol that crosslinks after the coating is formed when used in combination with a crosslinking agent; oxazoline-modified silicones, including poly(N-propionylethyleneimine) grafted dimethylsiloxane / γ-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymers; polyvinyl acetal diethylaminoacetate; zein (the main component of zein); polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); acrylic resins, including polyacrylonitrile resins or polymethacrylic resins; polystyrene resins; polyvinyl butyral resins; polyethylene terephthalate resins; polybutylene terephthalate resins; polyurethane resins; polyamide resins; polyimide resins; polyamideimide resins; and polyvinyl butyral resins.

[0214] (68) A device according to any one of (50) to (67), wherein the solution is a liquid preparation comprising the following components (a), (b) and (c): component (a) is one or more volatile substances selected from alcohols and ketones; component (b) is water; and component (c) is one or more polymers having coating-forming ability.

[0215] (69) The apparatus according to any one of (50) to (68), wherein the alcohol comprises one or more of a linear aliphatic monoalcohol, one or more cyclic aliphatic monoalcohols and / or one or more aromatic monoalcohols, and wherein the ketone comprises one or more of acetone, methyl ethyl ketone and methyl isobutyl ketone.

[0216] (70) The device according to any one of (50) to (69), wherein the alcohol comprises at least one selected from ethanol, isopropanol, and butanol.

[0217] (71) The device according to any one of (50) to (70), wherein the alcohol includes at least one selected from ethanol and butanol.

[0218] (72) The device according to any one of (50) to (71), wherein the alcohol comprises ethanol.

[0219] (73) An electrospinning or electrospraying system, comprising: a device for providing high voltage; a device for generating an electric field based on the high voltage and applying the electric field to a solution; a device for outputting the solution to receive the action of the electric field; a device for outputting the solution as an electrospun or electrosprayed solution; and a device for controlling the device for generating the electric field and the device for outputting the solution as an electrospun or electrosprayed solution.

[0220] (74) A method of providing, manufacturing, or using the device or system according to any one of (1) to (73).

[0221] (75) The method according to (74), wherein the method includes: providing an apparatus according to any one of (1) to (72) or a system according to (73); and using the apparatus or system.

[0222] (76) The method according to (74) or (75), wherein the deposition surface is skin.

[0223] (77) The method according to any one of (74) to (76), wherein the step of using the device or system includes electrospraying or electrospinning the solution onto the cosmetic product applied to the skin.

[0224] (78) A method according to any one of (74) to (77), wherein the step of using the device or system includes electrospraying or electrospinning the solution directly onto the skin and then providing the cosmetic directly or indirectly onto the solution.

[0225] (79) The method according to any one of (74) to (78), wherein the providing step includes replacing the solution before the step of using the device or system.

[0226] (80) The method according to any one of (74) to (79), further comprising replacing the solution after the step of using the device or system.

[0227] (81) A portable handheld device for electrospinning or electrospraying a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface, the device comprising: a durable portion having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; and a consumable portion coupled to the first end of the durable portion, wherein the consumable portion comprises: an electrode; a hollow nozzle configured to output the solution from its nozzle tip, the hollow nozzle defining a first portion of a flow path for the solution to the outside of the device, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path; and a housing configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of solution and output the solution to the hollow nozzle, wherein the durable portion comprises: a drive mechanism configured to cause the solution to be output from the housing to the hollow nozzle; and a user control interface comprising a switch configured to receive manual input in the form of a press operation from a user and to move radially inward to control the drive mechanism and control the application of high voltage to the electrode to generate an electric field for application to the solution, thereby electrospinning or electrospraying the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface, wherein the circuit is configured to provide the high voltage to the hollow electrode, and wherein the switch is closer to the second end of the durable portion than the housing of the consumable portion.

[0228] (82) The device of (81), wherein the distal end of the electrode is located inside a hollow nozzle defining the first portion of the flow path and is set back or recessed from the nozzle tip.

[0229] (83) The device according to (81) or (82), wherein the solution is a polymer solution in the form of a water-insoluble polymer having coating and fiber-forming capabilities.

[0230] (84) An apparatus according to any one of (81) to (83), wherein the housing configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of solution includes a solution container holding the predetermined maximum volume of solution, which is removable from the housing and replaceable by another solution container.

[0231] (85) An apparatus according to any one of (81) to (84), wherein the durable portion includes a housing that houses the drive mechanism and provides a user control interface, the durable portion being configured to be held by a user in one hand, and when held by the user in one hand, the user control interface can be operated by the user's finger or thumb to press and release the switch.

[0232] (86) The apparatus according to any one of (81) to (85), wherein the apparatus is configured to receive high voltage from a base station remote from the apparatus via a transmission medium.

[0233] (87) The device according to any one of (81) to (86), wherein the housing of the consumable portion is detachable from the housing of the durable portion and reattachable to the housing of the durable portion.

[0234] (88) The device of any one of (81) to (87), wherein the hollow nozzle is removably coupled to the housing such that the hollow nozzle can be removed from the housing.

[0235] (89) The device of any one of (81) to (88) further comprising an insulating sheath surrounding a portion of the electrode, including the distal end of the electrode, wherein the electrode is hollow.

[0236] (90) An apparatus according to any one of (81) to (89), wherein the circuit is configured to implement the preset of one or more operating parameters of the apparatus, the one or more operating parameters including: high voltage, operating current corresponding to the high voltage, driving speed of the driving mechanism, and driving direction of the driving mechanism.

[0237] (91) A device according to any one of (81) to (90), wherein the solution is a liquid preparation comprising the following components: (a) one or more volatile substances selected from alcohols and ketones; (b) water; and (c) one or more polymers having coating-forming ability.

[0238] (92) An apparatus according to any one of (81) to (91), wherein the apparatus is configured to output an electrospinning or electrospraying solution from a hollow nozzle using a high voltage of about 6 kV to about 30 kV at a flow rate of about 0.05 to about 0.5 ml / min, and wherein the solution contains greater than 70% alcohol.

[0239] (93) A portable handheld device for electrospinning or electrospraying a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface, the device comprising: a durable portion; a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion; and a conductive rod arranged along the axial direction of the device, wherein the consumable portion comprises: an electrode; a hollow nozzle configured to output a solution from its nozzle tip, the hollow nozzle defining a first portion of a flow path for the solution to the outside of the device, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path; and a housing configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of solution and output the solution to the hollow nozzle, wherein the durable portion comprises: a drive mechanism configured to cause the solution to be output from the housing to the hollow nozzle; and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the drive mechanism and control the application of high voltage to the hollow electrode to generate an electric field for applying to the solution, thereby electrospinning or electrospraying the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface, and wherein the circuit is configured to provide high voltage to the hollow electrode, wherein the conductive rod is arranged radially outside the housing configured to hold the consumable portion of the solution.

[0240] (94) An apparatus according to (93), wherein the solution is a liquid preparation comprising the following components (a), (b) and (c): component (a) is one or more volatile substances selected from alcohols and ketones; component (b) is water; component (c) is one or more polymers having coating-forming ability, wherein the alcohol includes one or more of a linear aliphatic monoalcohol, one or more cyclic aliphatic monoalcohols and / or one or more aromatic monoalcohols, and wherein the ketone includes one or more of acetone, methyl ethyl ketone and methyl isobutyl ketone.

[0241] (95) An apparatus according to (93) or (94), wherein a first end of the conductive rod is arranged to receive a high voltage from a power source, and a second end of the conductive rod opposite to the first end is electrically connected to the electrode using an elastic member.

[0242] (96) A portable handheld device for electrospinning or electrospraying a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface, the device comprising: a durable portion having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; and a consumable portion having a third end and a fourth end opposite the third end, the consumable portion being removably coupled to the durable portion, wherein the consumable portion comprises: an electrode; a hollow nozzle configured to output the solution from its nozzle tip, the hollow nozzle defining a first portion of a flow path for the solution to the outside of the device, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path; and a housing configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of solution and output the solution to the hollow nozzle, wherein the durable portion comprises: a drive mechanism configured to cause the solution to output from the housing to the hollow nozzle; and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the drive mechanism and control the application of high voltage to the hollow electrode to generate an electric field for applying to the solution, thereby electrospinning or electrospraying the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface, wherein the circuit is configured to provide high voltage to the hollow electrode, wherein the third end of the consumable portion is removably coupled to the first end of the durable portion at an interface so that the outer surface of the consumable portion and the outer surface of the durable portion are consistent at the interface, and so that the consumable portion and the durable portion are aligned on a central longitudinal axis located at the radial center of the device, and wherein the portion of the consumable portion extending from the first end of the durable portion is greater than the portion of the consumable portion located inside the durable portion.

[0243] (97) The device of (96), wherein when the consumable portion is removably coupled to the durable portion, the consumable portion and the durable portion are in the form of a stylus.

[0244] (98) An apparatus as described in (96) or (97), wherein the ratio of the axial width to the orthogonal width of the durable portion within the area of ​​the user control interface for receiving manual input from the user is about 3.5:1 to about 12:1.

[0245] (99) The device according to any one of (96) to (98) further includes a conductive rod arranged along the axial direction of the device, wherein the conductive rod is arranged radially outside the shell configured to hold the consumable part of the solution.

[0246] (100) An apparatus according to any one of (96) to (99), wherein the user control interface includes a switch configured to receive manual input in the form of a press operation from a user and move radially inward to control the drive mechanism and control the application of high voltage to the electrode to generate an electric field for application to the solution, thereby electrospinning or electrospraying the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface, and wherein the switch is closer to the second end of the durable portion than the housing of the consumable portion.

[0247] (101) A method comprising providing an apparatus according to any one of (81) to (100); and using the provided apparatus.

[0248] (102) The method according to (101), wherein the deposition surface is skin.

[0249] (103) The method according to (101) or (102), wherein the step of using the device includes electrospraying or electrospinning the solution onto the cosmetic product applied to the skin.

[0250] (104) A method according to any one of (101) to (103), wherein the step of using the device includes electrospraying or electrospinning the solution directly on the skin and then providing the cosmetic directly or indirectly on the solution.

[0251] (105) The method according to any one of (101) to (104), wherein the providing step includes replacing the solution before the step of using the device.

[0252] (106) The method according to any one of (101) to (105), further comprising replacing the solution after the step of using the device.

[0253] Embodiments of the present invention have been described so far, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the foregoing is merely exemplary and non-restrictive and is presented by way of example only. Therefore, although specific configurations have been described and illustrated herein, other configurations may also be adopted. In addition, various modifications and other embodiments (e.g., combinations, rearrangements, etc.) may be implemented by the present disclosure and are considered to fall within the scope of the present invention and any equivalents thereof. The features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined, rearranged, omitted, etc. within the scope of the present invention to produce additional embodiments. In addition, certain features may sometimes have advantages without the corresponding use of other features. Therefore, the applicant intends to include all such alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and variations that are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A portable handheld device for electrospinning or electrospraying a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface, the device comprising: Durable part, and a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion, Wherein, the consumption unit includes: a hollow nozzle configured to eject the solution from a nozzle tip thereof, the inner peripheral surface of the hollow nozzle having a hollow electrode defining a first portion of a flow path of the solution to the outside of the device, such that the hollow electrode and the solution are in direct contact with each other, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path, and a housing having a solution container configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of the solution and spray the solution to the hollow nozzle, wherein the hollow electrode is arranged so that the distal end of the hollow electrode is located inside the hollow nozzle and the proximal end of the hollow electrode is located inside the solution container, Wherein, the durable part includes: a driving mechanism configured to output the solution from the housing to the hollow nozzle, and a user control interface, comprising a switch configured to receive manual input in the form of a pressing operation from a user to control the drive mechanism and control the application of high voltage to the hollow electrode to generate an electric field for applying to the solution, thereby electrospinning or electrospraying the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface, wherein the circuit is configured to provide high voltage to the hollow electrode, and The hollow electrode is a needle electrode, and when the solution is to be used, the proximal end of the needle electrode pierces the airtight membrane or film on the opening leading to the solution container, so that a fluid path is formed between the solution body and the nozzle tip through the needle electrode.

2. The portable handheld device according to claim 1, wherein: The consumable portion includes a removably disposed cover.

3. The portable handheld device according to claim 2, wherein: The cover is removable by a threaded connection.

4. The portable handheld device according to claim 2, wherein: The cover is configured to cover the electrode tip of the hollow electrode.

5. The portable handheld device according to claim 2, wherein: The cover is constructed of a non-conductive material.

6. The portable handheld device according to claim 1, wherein: The outer periphery of the solution container is made of a non-conductive material.

7. The portable handheld device according to claim 1, wherein: The distal end of the hollow electrode is set back or recessed from the nozzle tip.

8. The portable handheld device according to claim 1, wherein: The consumable portion is removably coupled to the durable portion.

9. The portable handheld device of claim 1, further comprising an insulating sheath surrounding a portion of the hollow electrode, the portion including a distal end of the hollow electrode.

10. The portable handheld device according to claim 1, wherein: The solution is a liquid preparation comprising the following components a, b and c: component a is one or more volatile substances selected from alcohols and ketones; component b is water; and component c is one or more polymers having coating-forming ability.

11. The portable handheld device according to claim 1, wherein: The device is configured to use 6 kV to 30 kV as a high voltage, output an electrospinning solution or an electrospraying solution from the hollow nozzle at a flow rate of 0.05 to 0.5 ml / min, and Wherein, the solution contains more than 70% of alcohol.

12. A portable handheld device for electrospinning or electrospraying a predetermined solution formulated for the device toward a deposition surface, the device comprising: Durable Department; as well as a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion, Wherein, the consumption unit includes: a hollow nozzle configured to eject the solution from a nozzle tip thereof, the hollow nozzle having a hollow electrode defining a first portion of a flow path of the solution to the outside of the device, the first portion of the flow path of the solution being defined such that the hollow electrode and the solution are in direct contact with each other, and the nozzle tip defining a second portion of the flow path, and a housing having a solution container configured to hold a predetermined maximum volume of the solution and spray the solution to the hollow nozzle, wherein the hollow electrode is arranged so that the distal end of the hollow electrode is located inside the hollow nozzle and the proximal end of the hollow electrode is located inside the solution container, Wherein, the durable part includes: a driving mechanism configured to output the solution from the housing to the hollow electrode, and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the driving mechanism, and control the application of high voltage to the hollow electrode to generate an electric field for applying to the solution, thereby electrospinning or electrospraying the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposition surface, wherein the circuit is configured to provide a high voltage to the hollow electrode, and The hollow electrode is a needle electrode, and when the solution is to be used, the proximal end of the needle electrode pierces the airtight membrane or film on the opening leading to the solution container, so that a fluid path is formed between the solution body and the nozzle tip through the needle electrode.

13. The portable handheld device according to claim 12, wherein: The consumable portion includes a removably disposed cover.

14. The portable handheld device according to claim 13, wherein: The cover is removable by a threaded connection.

15. The portable handheld device according to claim 13, wherein: The cover is configured to cover the electrode tip of the hollow electrode.

16. The portable handheld device according to claim 13, wherein: The cover is constructed of a non-conductive material.

17. The portable handheld device according to claim 12, wherein: The outer periphery of the solution container is made of a non-conductive material.

18. The portable handheld device of claim 12, wherein: The distal end of the hollow electrode is set back or recessed from the nozzle tip.

19. The portable handheld device of claim 12, wherein: The consumable portion is removably coupled to the durable portion.

20. The portable handheld device of claim 12, further comprising an insulating sheath surrounding a portion of the hollow electrode, the portion including a distal end of the hollow electrode.

21. The portable handheld device of claim 12, wherein: The solution is a liquid preparation comprising the following components a, b and c: component a is one or more volatile substances selected from alcohols and ketones; component b is water; and component c is one or more polymers having coating-forming ability.

22. The portable handheld device of claim 12, wherein: The device is configured to use 6 kV to 30 kV as a high voltage, output an electrospinning solution or an electrospraying solution from the hollow nozzle at a flow rate of 0.05 to 0.5 ml / min, and Wherein, the solution contains more than 70% of alcohol.

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