3D Printed Medical Implants with Controlled Drug Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing subcutaneous medical implants for controlled drug release lack precision and flexibility in drug release patterns, material choice, and manufacturing efficiency, particularly in using 3-D printing techniques.
Innovation Solution
The development of computer-controlled 3-D printing methods, specifically fused deposition modeling, for creating subcutaneous medical implants that allow for precise deposition of drug and non-drug materials in thin layers, enabling controlled release of narcotics and non-narcotics over varying periods, with the option to use multiple materials and biodegradable components for enhanced control and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional manufacturing methods are used for medical implants, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but manufacturing precision and control over drug release patterns deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by utilizing controlled temperature variations during the 3-D printing process to precisely control drug release patterns. The system changes thermal parameters to regulate the release rate and timing of drugs from the implant, achieving precise control over drug delivery schedules without requiring complex post-manufacturing adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical manufacturing methods with a computer-controlled 3-D printing system that uses digital modeling and automated deposition. This substitution of mechanical processes with computer-controlled thermal and material deposition processes enables precise control over implant structure and drug release characteristics while maintaining manufacturing efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If limited material choices are used in implant manufacturing, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability and versatility of the implant deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single 3-D printing system capable of processing multiple material types including biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymers, drugs, and coating materials. This multi-functional approach allows the same manufacturing apparatus to produce various implant configurations and material combinations, enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite materials by combining different polymer types, drugs, and coating materials within the same implant structure through 3-D printing. The system can deposit multiple materials in controlled layers or mixtures, creating composite implants that provide both structural integrity and controlled drug release properties, thereby expanding material flexibility while maintaining process control.
3Productivity
If traditional manufacturing processes are used, then process simplicity is maintained, but productivity and manufacturing efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating detailed computer models and digital blueprints of the implant structure before actual manufacturing. The 3-D printing system uses pre-programmed deposition paths and material composition specifications, allowing complex implants to be manufactured efficiently without requiring complex real-time adjustments during the printing process itself.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for precise regulation of drug release patterns, improved bonding between implant components, increased manufacturing yield, and flexibility in material choice, enabling efficient production of implants with high precision and cost-effectiveness, suitable for various medical and animal health applications.
Implementation Method 1
computer-controlled 3-D printing methods, specifically fused deposition modeling, for creating subcutaneous medical implants that allow for precise deposition of drug and non-drug materials
Implementation Method 2
at least portions of some or all layers can be set to a final physical product state by exposure to a UV radiation source which cross links the functional layers
Data Source
AI summary
A method (and the resulting product) of making a medical implant device for releasing self-contained drugs on a controlled basis wherein the method utilizes, at least in part, computer-controlled 3-D printing equipment to deposit via nozzles portions of one or more layers of the medical implant product. The implant has an outer impervious coating, an inner matrix core, an opening and an optional bonding layer.