Dual-Layer Oral Care Varnish Leakage Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing oral care varnish compositions face issues with leakage, irritation, and ineffective delivery of oral care agents due to their wet and soft nature, which can lead to reduced efficacy and undesirable aesthetics.

Innovation Solution

A dual-layer system comprising a first curable layer with an oral care agent and a second barrier layer that is less permeable to water, applied in a way that the first layer is partially cured before the second layer, using different solvents to prevent intermixing and enhance the barrier function, reducing leakage and improving aesthetics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a liquid varnish composition is applied onto the teeth, then the ease of application is improved, but the oral care agents leak into the mouth reducing delivery efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of applicationVSAvoiddelivery efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the varnish composition into two distinct layers: a first layer containing the oral care agent and a second layer acting as a barrier. This segmentation prevents the oral care agent from leaking into the mouth while maintaining ease of application, as each layer can be optimized for its specific function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second barrier layer acts as an intermediary between the first layer containing the oral care agent and the oral environment. This intermediary layer prevents direct contact between the oral care agent and the mouth, reducing leakage while allowing controlled delivery to the teeth.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If the varnish composition is made soft for easy application, then the ease of operation is improved, but the composition is easily washed away reducing effectiveness

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of applicationVSAvoideffectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The varnish is segmented into two layers with different properties. The first layer can be softer for easy application, while the second barrier layer provides the necessary durability and resistance to washing away, ensuring the oral care agent remains effective.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses a composite structure combining two different varnish layers. The first layer provides application ease while the second layer provides durability, creating a composite material that exhibits both properties simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

3Ease of operation

If the deposited varnish has a rough surface for easy application, then the ease of operation is improved, but it irritates the lips and soft tissues

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of applicationVSAvoidirritation

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The varnish is divided into two layers where the second layer serves as a smooth barrier between the rough first layer and the oral tissues. This segmentation allows the first layer to maintain easy application characteristics while the second layer prevents irritation to lips and soft tissues.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

4Shape

If the varnish composition is made transparent for aesthetic purposes, then the appearance is improved, but the oral care agents may leak more easily

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveappearanceVSAvoiddelivery efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the varnish into two layers, allowing the second barrier layer to be transparent for aesthetic purposes while the first layer contains the oral care agent. The barrier layer's transparency does not compromise its ability to prevent leakage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

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 dual-layer system effectively reduces leakage and irritation, enhances the delivery efficiency of oral care agents, and provides a smoother, more aesthetically pleasing application, while maintaining the ease of application of a varnish composition.

Implementation Method 1

the first layer comprises a first solvent and is curable during or after its application

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCuring: Photopolymerisation

Implementation Method 2

a second composition including a matrix material for forming a barrier layer which is less permeable to water than the first layer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPermeation barrier: Semipermeable Membrane

Data Source

PatentUS11179299B2System and method for applying oral care agents

Publication Date: 2021.11.23 KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS NV

AI summary

A system for providing an oral care agent includes a first layer containing the oral care agent and a second layer. The first layer can be applied directly to teeth. The second layer can subsequently be applied onto the first layer to inhibit leakage of the oral care agent outwards into the mouth.