Dermal Patch Lancet with Automatic Needle Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for obtaining physiological samples are time-consuming and burdensome, requiring subjects to travel to diagnostic labs for sample collection using standard syringes.
Innovation Solution
A dermal patch system with a lancet that automatically moves needles from an undeployed to a deployed position to puncture the skin, collect a sample, and then retract, using a mechanism involving springs and deformable tabs to facilitate easy and efficient sample collection and storage within a cartridge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If standard syringes are used for physiological sample collection, then the sample can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and requires subjects to travel to diagnostic labs
Solution Approach 1:
The sample collection system is divided into separate functional components: a lancet for puncturing the skin, a cartridge for sample collection and storage, and a diagnostic device for analysis. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and enables the system to be used in various environments without requiring laboratory facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The lancet is pre-loaded with needles in a protected undeployed position within the cartridge. When the cartridge is applied to the skin, the lancet automatically deploys the needles to perform the puncture and sample collection in advance, eliminating the need for manual syringe preparation and administration at the time of testing.
2Ease of operation
If manual syringe administration is used, then sample collection is possible, but the procedure is burdensome to the subject
Solution Approach 1:
The lancet automatically deploys its needles when engaged with the cartridge, and the cartridge automatically collects and stores the physiological sample. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual needle insertion, syringe administration, and sample handling, significantly improving convenience for the subject while reducing the skill level required for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The lancet and cartridge are designed as integrated components that work together as a single system. The lancet engages with the cartridge to transfer the physiological sample directly into the cartridge's storage compartment, merging the functions of puncturing, sample collection, and storage into one unified device that simplifies the overall procedure.
3Reliability
If needles are deployed to puncture skin, then physiological sample can be drawn, but the needles must be safely retracted after use
Solution Approach 1:
The lancet employs a dynamic needle platform that can transition between undeployed and deployed positions. The injection spring deploys the needles when engaged with the cartridge, and the retraction spring automatically retracts them after sample collection. This dynamic mechanism ensures safe needle handling while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle platform acts as an intermediary between the lancet housing and the skin. It carries the needles from the protected undeployed position to the deployed position for puncturing, and then returns them to the housing for safe storage. This intermediary component isolates the user from the sharp needles while enabling their functional deployment.
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 efficient, easy, and reliable extraction of physiological samples in various environments, reducing the need for laboratory visits and improving the convenience of sample collection.
Implementation Method 1
an injection spring configured to move the needle(s) to the deployed position
Implementation Method 2
a retraction spring configured to retract the needle(s) into the housing
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of deformable tabs configured to compress the retraction spring when the needle(s) are in the undeployed position
Data Source
AI summary
A dermal patch system includes a lancet with three needles and a cartridge that is configured to attach to the skin of a subject. The lancet is configured automatically move the three needles from an undeployed position to a deployed position when the lancet engages with the cartridge. The three needles are configured to puncture the skin of the subject to draw a physiological sample when in the deployed position.