Iontophoresis Patch Segmentation for Versatility and Cost
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current iontophoresis systems are limited by their complexity, inefficiency, and lack of versatility, failing to provide a single-use, easy-to-use, and cost-effective solution for drug delivery and skin conductivity enhancement, with issues related to power sourcing and electronic dose control.
Innovation Solution
A combinational iontophoretic transdermal device that integrates traditional and low voltage iontophoretic systems, allowing for both forward and reverse iontophoresis, with a multi-functional electrode patch that includes a separate dose controller, power supply, and re-charger module, enabling skin conductivity enhancement and low voltage iontophoresis treatment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional iontophoresis systems are used, then drug delivery function is provided, but device complexity and lack of versatility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines traditional iontophoresis functionality with low voltage iontophoresis functionality into a single electrode patch device. The electrode patch includes both traditional iontophoresis electrodes and low voltage electrodes, allowing it to perform multiple therapeutic functions including skin conductivity enhancement and drug delivery, thereby resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity by integrating multiple functions into one unified device
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode patch is designed as a multi-functional component that can perform both traditional iontophoresis and low voltage iontophoresis treatments. The same electrode patch structure supports multiple treatment modes (forward iontophoresis, reverse iontophoresis, skin conductivity enhancement), making it a universal device that eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each function
2Ease of operation
If single-use disposable system is implemented, then ease of operation and safety improve, but manufacturing cost worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two distinct components: a reusable electronic dose controller and a single-use electrode patch. This segmentation allows the expensive electronic components to be reused across multiple patients, while only the consumable electrode patch is disposed of after each use. This resolves the contradiction by making the device easy to operate with single-use components while controlling manufacturing costs through reusable electronics
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode patch is designed as a disposable, single-use component that is inexpensive to manufacture and dispose of after one use. By making the electrode patch the disposable element rather than the entire device, the system maintains ease of operation and safety through single-use sterility while keeping production costs manageable through the reusability of the electronic controller
3Adaptability or versatility
If on-board patch batteries are used, then independence from external power source improves, but device weight and volume worsen
Solution Approach 1:
Power capability is applied locally at the electrode patch level through integrated batteries, allowing the patch to function independently without external power sources. This local power provision enables the patch to deliver both traditional and low voltage iontophoresis treatments autonomously, achieving independence while keeping the overall device lightweight since only the patch carries battery weight, not the entire system
4Productivity
If external dose controller is reused, then productivity and economy improve, but device complexity and connection requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the electronic dose controller from the electrode patch, allowing the controller to be reused across multiple patients while the patch is disposable. This segmentation enables high productivity through controller reuse while simplifying connections through a dedicated interface designed for rapid attachment and detachment, resolving the contradiction between productivity and connection complexity
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 device reduces treatment time, improves drug delivery efficiency, and provides therapeutic versatility, allowing patients to be more mobile during treatment, while maintaining safety and reducing production and clinical visitation times.
Implementation Method 1
A combinational iontophoretic transdermal device that employs both the functionality of a traditional iontophoretic transdermal system and a low voltage iontophoretic transdermal system
Data Source
AI summary
An iontophoresis apparatus and method is disclosed that is suited to deliver a plurality of treatment methods such as, but not limited to, body site conductivity enhancement followed by low voltage iontophoresis.