Compressible Allergen Applicator with Scratching Barbs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current multiple allergen skin testing methods are cumbersome, prone to cross-contamination, and cause patient discomfort, with a high risk of errors and false positives due to the need for multiple needle pricks and the handling of numerous allergens.

Innovation Solution

A multiple allergen test applicator with compressible materials and scratching barbs that allow for simultaneous testing of multiple allergens on the skin, minimizing cross-contamination and patient discomfort by using a simple, economical device that applies allergens through controlled scratches, with built-in features for easy handling and observable results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple needle pricks are used to apply allergens to the skin, then multiple allergens can be tested, but cross-contamination occurs and patient discomfort increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to test multiple allergensVSAvoidrisk of cross-contamination

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator is divided into multiple separate legs, each with its own tip for applying a different allergen. This segmentation prevents cross-contamination between allergens while allowing simultaneous testing of multiple allergens on the patient's skin.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator serves as an intermediary device that transfers allergens from reservoirs to the patient's skin through controlled scratching. The scratching mechanism creates micro-abrasions that allow allergen penetration without requiring multiple needle pricks, thereby reducing cross-contamination risk.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple needle pricks are used to apply allergens, then multiple allergens can be tested, but the complexity of handling numerous allergens increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to test multiple allergensVSAvoidhandling of numerous allergens

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple allergen application functions are merged into a single applicator device with multiple legs. The applicator can simultaneously apply multiple different allergens in one action, eliminating the need to handle numerous separate allergen applications and reducing procedural complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator is designed as a universal device that can test multiple different allergens through a single scratching motion. The multiple legs with different allergens allow the device to perform multiple testing functions simultaneously, simplifying the overall testing procedure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple needle pricks are used, then multiple allergens can be tested, but errors and false positives increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to test multiple allergensVSAvoidaccuracy of test results

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The scratching mechanism, which initially seemed harsh, is converted into a benefit by creating controlled micro-abrasions that facilitate allergen penetration. This approach replaces multiple needle pricks with a single scratching action that actually improves test accuracy by reducing cross-contamination and false positives.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

4Ease of manufacture

If a simple and economical device is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the ability to minimize cross-contamination may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidprevention of cross-contamination

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator is designed as a disposable device that can be discarded after a single use. This eliminates the need for complex sterilization mechanisms while ensuring complete prevention of cross-contamination between patients and allergens. The low-cost disposable nature makes the device economically viable.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS11517249B2Multiple allergen test applicator

Publication Date: 2022.12.06 PRINCE TY L

AI summary

The multiple allergen testing system includes an applicator and a fluid tray. The fluid tray is cooperatively engageable with the applicator. The applicator has an allergen loading position and an allergen deposition position. In the allergen loading position, a different allergen is loaded onto each respective scratching barb from each respective reservoir of the loading tray. Each scratching barb is designed to retain a trace of allergen fluid. A pair of finger grips are positioned on opposing sides of the applicator frame. The applicator fits into one hand of a medical technician administering the allergen skin testing. The applicator is removed from the fluid tray and repositioned onto the skin of the patient. The applicator is made of compressible material. In the allergen deposition position, the applicator is compressed, and each allergen is deposited into each respective scratch generated by each respective scratching barb on the skin for further analysis.