Multi-Layer Allergen Patch With Cavity Layout for Self-Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing allergen patch systems are limited to pre-determined allergens, require close monitoring by medical providers, and suffer from poor sensitivity and execution difficulties, making them inaccessible and unreliable for many patients.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer contact patch with a shield layer, adhesive layer, and allergen complex layer, featuring allergen cavities and a sealing layer, along with a user-friendly system for execution and analysis, including a mobile app for image capture and interpretation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a multi-layer contact patch with allergen cavities is used, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patch is divided into multiple functional layers: a shield layer for protection, an adhesive layer for skin attachment, an allergen complex layer containing multiple discrete allergen cavities, and a sealing layer for containment. Each layer performs a specific function, allowing the complex testing capability to be achieved through modular design rather than a single complex structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The allergen complexes are nested within cavities in the allergen complex layer, which itself is nested within the multi-layer patch structure. The sealing layer encloses the allergen cavities, creating a nested configuration that organizes multiple allergens in a compact, manageable format while maintaining individual accessibility for testing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If allergen panels are limited to pre-determined allergens, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability and versatility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static, pre-determined allergen panels to a dynamic configuration where the mobile application can selectively activate and test specific allergen cavities based on patient needs, symptoms, and clinical indications. This allows the same physical patch to adapt to different testing scenarios without requiring multiple specialized patches.
Solution Approach 2:
The patch design incorporates multiple allergen cavities that can be used individually or in various combinations, making a single patch serve multiple testing purposes. The mobile application enables selective activation of different allergen subsets, allowing one patch to function as multiple specialized panels would traditionally require.
3Ease of operation
If close monitoring by medical providers is required, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation and accessibility are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables patients to independently apply the patch, select which allergens to test, monitor their own reactions through the mobile application, and capture images of test sites. The mobile app provides step-by-step guidance and automated analysis, allowing patients to perform the testing without requiring a medical provider to be physically present throughout the process.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile application continuously monitors test progression by capturing images of the test site at predetermined time points, automatically analyzing the images for reactions, and providing real-time feedback to the patient. This automated feedback loop maintains reliability by ensuring proper test execution and timely detection of reactions without requiring constant medical provider intervention.
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
Enables self-administration of allergen tests with improved sensitivity and reliability, allowing for broader allergen panels and remote medical consultation, enhancing accessibility and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
each allergen complex comprising an absorbent matrix and an allergen
Data Source
AI summary
Multi-layer contact patches, as well as related apparatus, kits, systems, and methods, enable improved allergen testing and diagnosis. Multi-layer contact patches include a shield layer releasably coupled to an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer at least partially defines and is fixably coupled to an allergen complex layer. The allergen complex layer defines a plurality of allergen complex cavities. At least a subset of the allergen complex cavities include an allergen complex positioned therein, each allergen complex comprising an absorbent matrix and an allergen.