Hydrogen-Generating Transdermal Patch with Segmented Chemical Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for delivering molecular hydrogen for therapeutic purposes face challenges such as safety issues, cost, and limited availability, particularly in delivering hydrogen to specific body areas effectively and efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A device that generates molecular hydrogen internally upon activation, using a sealed bag with hydrogen-generating chemicals separated by a destructible partition, allowing controlled release through a hydrogen-permeable surface for targeted transdermal delivery, minimizing skin contact with reactive components and extending treatment duration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If hydrogen gas-producing chemical compositions are applied directly to the skin, then hydrogen delivery is achieved, but skin irritation, redness, burning and rashes occur
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the chemical system into separate compartments: a first compartment containing the hydrogen-generating chemical composition and a second compartment containing the skin-contacting composition. This segmentation prevents direct contact between the potentially irritating hydrogen-generating chemicals and the skin, while still enabling hydrogen delivery through the controlled release mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The second compartment acts as an intermediary layer between the hydrogen-generating chemicals and the skin. This intermediate composition allows hydrogen to pass through while providing a buffer that prevents direct skin contact with harmful chemical components, thereby reducing irritation and adverse reactions.
2Quantity of substance
If hydrogen-rich water is used for soaking, then hydrogen delivery is achieved, but large volumes of water are required and treatment duration is limited due to rapid evaporation
Solution Approach 1:
The device contains all necessary components (hydrogen-generating chemicals, skin-contacting composition, and release mechanism) in a self-contained portable unit. This eliminates the need for large volumes of external water and allows the device to generate and deliver hydrogen autonomously for extended periods without requiring replenishment or external resources.
3Quantity of substance
If H(H2O)m-based devices are used, then transdermal hydrogen delivery is achieved, but complex equipment is required making therapy cost prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a disposable or replaceable chemical cartridge system where the hydrogen-generating composition is contained in a simple, inexpensive package. This eliminates the need for expensive, complex equipment while providing effective hydrogen delivery. The simple structural design with basic compartments and release mechanisms reduces manufacturing costs and makes therapy accessible.
4Quantity of substance
If metallic Mg is used for in vivo hydrogen production, then hydrogen is generated, but toxicity of reaction products such as magnesium hydroxide occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the chemical parameters by selecting hydrogen-generating compositions and skin-contacting compositions that produce non-toxic or low-toxicity reaction products. By modifying the chemical composition parameters, the system maintains effective hydrogen generation while eliminating or reducing the toxicity associated with traditional metal-based systems.
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 safe, efficient, and cost-effective targeted delivery of hydrogen to specific body areas for extended periods, overcoming previous methods' limitations in duration and accessibility, while reducing toxicity risks and requiring no specialized equipment.
Implementation Method 1
hydrogen gas is released from the device and diffused into the target area of the body
Data Source
AI summary
Molecular hydrogen has been shown to have cosmetic and medicinal benefits. However, delivery methods have been ineffective in aiding the body in receiving and absorbing the hydrogen. This device has a dry chemical separated from a solution. Both the dry chemical and the solution are housed in a container. The container has a hydrogen impermeable top outer layer and a hydrogen permeable bottom layer. Once initiated, a determined and controlled chemical reaction generates molecular hydrogen within the container. The hydrogen then exits the device through the hydrogen permeable side of the device that is facing the skin. The device carries a low risk of toxicity while providing cosmetic and medicinal advantages.