Interface Dressing with Patterned Through-Holes for Conformability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interface dressings, such as URGOTUL®, lack conformability due to their rigid framework, making them difficult to apply to wounds with challenging locations.
Innovation Solution
An interface dressing with an elastomeric matrix provided with a plurality of through-holes, arranged in a pattern that allows for controlled shaping and adaptation to the dimensions and shape of the wound site, while maintaining lateral edge straightness under tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If an open-mesh fabric framework with cohesive gel coating is used, then through-holes are formed for exudate absorption, but the framework becomes rigid and lacks conformability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the rigid open-mesh fabric framework with a flexible elastomeric matrix that forms a continuous thin film structure. This elastomeric matrix maintains the through-hole structure for exudate absorption while providing the flexibility and conformability needed to adapt to various wound shapes and body contours, directly resolving the contradiction between rigidity and conformability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite elastomeric matrix that combines multiple material properties: the elastomeric base provides flexibility and conformability, while the embedded through-holes provide structural integrity and exudate transport pathways. This composite structure resolves the contradiction by integrating both flexible and structurally sound characteristics in a single material system.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a self-supported interface dressing without framework is used, then elasticity and flexibility are improved, but the dressing becomes difficult to use and adapt to body parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the elastomeric matrix into regions with different through-hole arrangements. The through-holes are positioned and sized to create zones of varying flexibility and support, allowing the dressing to adapt easily to body contours while maintaining sufficient structural integrity for practical use. This segmentation resolves the contradiction between elasticity and ease of adaptation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality variations within the elastomeric matrix by creating different through-hole patterns in different regions. Areas requiring higher flexibility have different through-hole arrangements compared to areas needing more support, allowing the dressing to be easily adapted to various body parts while maintaining ease of operation through localized property optimization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the interface dressing is stretched in one direction, then it can be applied to elongated wounds, but lateral edges may become curved or deform
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric through-hole arrangements where through-holes are positioned and oriented to resist deformation in specific directions. The through-hole pattern is designed with asymmetric characteristics that maintain lateral edge straightness even when the dressing is stretched longitudinally, resolving the contradiction between stretchability and shape retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates preliminary structural design features in the elastomeric matrix that pre-resist deformation. The through-hole arrangement is pre-configured to counteract the tendency of lateral edges to curve during stretching, allowing the dressing to be stretched for application while maintaining shape integrity through built-in structural resistance.
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 interface dressing can be easily shaped and adapted to fit various wound locations, offering improved conformability and ease of application while maintaining structural integrity and elasticity.
Implementation Method 1
The interface dressing comprises an elastomeric matrix provided with a plurality of through-holes... The interface dressing can be shaped, and in particular cut or torn, in a controlled manner... the interface dressing subjected to a tensile force according to a direction parallel to lateral edges keeps its lateral edges straight
Data Source
AI summary
An interface dressing (1) comprising an elastomeric matrix (5), the elastomeric matrix (5) being provided with a plurality of through-holes (6), each through-hole (6) having a contour (C) around a central axis (A), in which at least some of the plurality of through-holes (6) are arranged so as to form at least one pattern in which each through-hole (6) is adjacent to at least one other through-hole (6), the adjacent through-holes (6) having contours (C), images of which, when moved in translation in a plane perpendicular to the central axes (A) in order to merge images of said central axes (A) by means of said translational movement, do not become superposed.