Electrospinning Threaded Rod Spinneret for Multi-Jet Production

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electrospinning setups have low production rates and are expensive and complex to set up and operate, especially when trying to increase production by using multiple jets.

Innovation Solution

A simpler and cost-effective electrospinning apparatus using a vertically oriented threaded rod with a high-voltage power supply and a grounded collector, which allows for multiple simultaneous jets of electrospinning solution to be produced, increasing production rate without the need for multiple nozzles or complex equipment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple jets are used to increase production rate, then productivity increases, but device complexity and capital costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction rateVSAvoidequipment complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the single jet electrospinning process into multiple jets by using a multi-component spinneret assembly with multiple nozzles arranged in a specific pattern. This allows simultaneous production of multiple fiber jets from a single integrated unit, increasing productivity while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges multiple nozzles into a single integrated spinneret assembly that can be controlled by one syringe pump and power supply system. This combination approach achieves multi-jet production without requiring separate control systems for each jet, thereby increasing productivity while avoiding exponential growth in device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If multiple jets are used to increase production rate, then productivity increases, but capital costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction rateVSAvoidcapital costs

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The multi-component spinneret assembly serves multiple functions: it houses multiple nozzles, provides structural support, enables solution distribution to multiple jets, and integrates with the single syringe pump system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby increasing productivity while controlling capital costs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses identical nozzle components replicated in a specific arrangement within the spinneret assembly. By copying the same functional unit (nozzle) multiple times in a standardized configuration, the system achieves multi-jet capability with predictable costs and simplified manufacturing, rather than designing unique complex components for each jet

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Productivity

If standard electrospinning setup is used, then fiber production is achieved, but production rate is low

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveproduction rateVSAvoidfiber output

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from a single-point jet configuration to a multi-point spatial arrangement of nozzles in the spinneret assembly. This dimensional expansion from one jet to multiple jets in different spatial positions simultaneously increases the total fiber output while maintaining the fundamental electrospinning process, thereby resolving the contradiction between production rate and fiber output

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 apparatus achieves a significantly higher production rate of electrospun fibers, up to 30 times greater than traditional single syringe setups, while being easier and less expensive to set up and operate, with similar fiber morphology and diameter distribution.

Implementation Method 1

The high-voltage direct current power supply is then applied to the liquid droplet, the body of the liquid becomes charged and electrostatic repulsion counteracts the surface tension, and the droplet is stretched.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrostatic repulsion: Electrostatics

Implementation Method 2

The electrospinning process is one of the most favorable techniques for fabricating submicron fibers from polymeric melts or solutions

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrospinning: Electrohydrodynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9931777B2Simple device for economically producing electrospun fibers at moderate rates

Publication Date: 2018.04.03 THE UNIVERSITY OF AKRON

AI summary

An apparatus for the production of electrospun fibers using an electrospinning solution comprising: at least one threaded rod having an exterior surface and having a longitudinal axis oriented vertically, a grounded collector, an electrospinning solution dispenser feeding electrospinning solution to the exterior surface of the threaded rod, and a high voltage power supply.