Dual-Sided Adhesive Label for Surgical Instrument Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing marking systems for surgical instruments are cumbersome, require significant effort to install, and cannot be easily removed or updated, failing to withstand sterilization processes and changes in surgical preferences or staff.
Innovation Solution
A label with a printable carrier material having adhesive layers on both sides, where the top-side adhesive can be activated to seal the label completely upon attachment, ensuring durability and ease of application, using materials like PET or PEEK that are resistant to sterilization and chemical exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a marking element is inserted into a receiving hole and pressed into the item, then the marking can be permanently attached, but the installation requires huge efforts and the marking cannot be removed without leaving durable marks
Solution Approach 1:
The marking system is divided into separate components: a removable covering element with adhesive layer that can be easily applied and removed, rather than a permanent inserted marking element. This segmentation allows for simple application and removal without leaving marks.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering element is designed as a disposable or removable component that can be easily applied and removed without permanent attachment. This allows for flexible updates and removals while maintaining simplicity in operation.
2Reliability
If adhesive layers are provided on both sides of the carrier material, then the label can be completely sealed and protected, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive layers serve multiple functions: they provide attachment to the item, create sealing between layers, and protect the printed information. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional protective elements, balancing complexity with protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The label uses a composite structure combining carrier material with adhesive layers on both sides. This composite design provides comprehensive protection and sealing while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure that can be manufactured efficiently.
3Reliability
If the adhesive is activated by radiant energy, then the adhesion becomes permanent and durable, but the activation process requires additional energy and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive layer is designed to activate automatically through contact with the item surface or through ambient conditions, without requiring external energy input. This self-activating mechanism provides permanent adhesion while avoiding the need for additional activation equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive transitions from a non-activated state to an activated state through changes in physical or chemical parameters upon contact with the item. This parameter change enables permanent bonding without requiring external energy sources, balancing reliability with energy efficiency.
4Reliability
If the label is made from sterilization-resistant materials like PET or PEEK, then the label can withstand sterilization processes, but the material cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The label is designed as a disposable or replaceable component that can be easily discarded after use. This allows for the use of cost-effective materials that can withstand sterilization, as the entire label can be replaced rather than the surgical instrument itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrier material is selected to undergo parameter changes during sterilization processes (such as temperature or chemical exposure) without compromising its functional properties. This allows for sterilization resistance while controlling material costs through appropriate material selection.
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 labels provide a simple, durable, and easily applicable marking solution that can withstand sterilization and environmental stress, preventing delamination and allowing for easy updating of surgical instrument markings, reducing manual search time and costs.
Implementation Method 1
The activation of the adhesive can be achieved for example by radiant energy, e.g., thermal radiation, infrared radiation, ultraviolet radiation or other electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
cross-linking adhesives, for example on the basis of epoxy resin, by means of which a permanent adhesion can be achieved
Implementation Method 3
the adhesives provided on the bottom side and on the top side are compatible in a way that they connect with each other
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a label for marking items comprising a carrier material with a top side and a bottom side. The carrier material is printable at least on the top side. Adhesive layers are provided on the bottom side and the top side, wherein at least the adhesive layer provided on the top side can be activated for example by heat.