Double-Layer Hydrogel Wrinkle Structure via Compressive Strain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional material structures fail to replicate the natural wrinkle or fold structures of epithelial tissues, lacking the necessary layered structure and materials to accurately mimic the real tissue characteristics, which limits their application in cosmetic and academic studies.
Innovation Solution
A double-layer structure comprising a gel composition as the first layer and an epithelial cell layer as the second layer, designed to form wrinkle or fold structures when compressive forces are applied, with specific manufacturing steps and a compression device to achieve these deformations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a conventional single-layer material structure is used, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but it fails to replicate the natural wrinkle or fold structures of epithelial tissues
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial epithelial tissue is divided into multiple distinct layers: a first layer comprising a hydrogel matrix with first cells, and a second layer comprising a different hydrogel matrix with second cells. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized for specific functions while collectively replicating the complex wrinkle structures of natural epithelial tissues, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and structural accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite hydrogel materials with different compositions and properties for the first and second layers. The first hydrogel matrix differs from the second hydrogel matrix in terms of composition, porosity, or mechanical properties, enabling the composite structure to mimic the heterogeneous nature of natural epithelial tissues and achieve accurate wrinkle replication that single-layer structures cannot accomplish.
2Shape
If compressive force is applied to form wrinkle structures, then the wrinkle or fold structures are successfully formed, but the control over wrinkle formation requires precise strain management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent systematically varies compression parameters including compressive strain magnitude (0.1-0.7), compression rate (0.001-0.5 mm/s), and compression duration to optimize wrinkle structure formation. By establishing parameter ranges and their effects on wrinkle morphology, the patent enables controlled reproduction of natural tissue deformations while managing the precision requirements through defined operational windows.
3Reliability
If the first layer and second layer are made with different hydrogel compositions, then the layered structure better mimics real tissue, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing process is segmented into distinct steps: forming the first layer with its specific hydrogel composition and cell type, then forming the second layer with different composition and cell type on top of the first layer. This segmented approach allows each layer to be independently optimized for tissue mimicry while maintaining a systematic fabrication process that manages complexity through structured procedural steps.
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
The double-layer structure effectively forms wrinkle or fold structures with controlled compressive strains, allowing for the simulation of natural epithelial tissue deformations, enhancing cosmetic and academic applications by accurately replicating tissue characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
applying compressive forces to the outside of the first layer or the second layer by means of at least one or more pressurizing parts to dehydrate the first layer
Implementation Method 2
applying compressive forces to the outside of the first layer or the second layer by means of at least one or more pressurizing parts to dehydrate the first layer
Implementation Method 3
a wrinkle structure formed thereon by means of compressive forces applied from the outside thereto, the wrinkle structure having at least one or more crests or troughs formed thereon in a state where the first layer and the second layer are connected to each other
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a double-layer structure including: a first layer composed of a gel composition; a second layer formed on the first layer and having an epithelial cell layer as at least a region coming into contact with the first layer; and a wrinkle structure formed thereon by means of compressive forces applied from the outside thereto, the wrinkle structure having at least one or more crests or troughs formed thereon in a state where the first layer and the second layer are connected to each other.