Long-Hair Transplant Needle With Locking Follicle Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hair transplantation methods are inefficient and result in high follicle loss due to prolonged exposure and stress on hair follicles, especially when transplanting long hair, leading to thin and fragile hair shafts.
Innovation Solution
A modular hair transplant system with an extracting needle and implantation unit that allows for direct extraction and implantation without intermediate handling, using a lock mechanism to secure hair follicles during transfer and minimize time outside the body.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional multi-stage hair transplantation method is used, then follicle extraction and implantation can be completed, but the process takes prolonged time causing stress on hair follicles and high follicle loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines extraction and implantation functions into a single integrated device. The extracting needle and implantation needle are combined in one unit, allowing the hair follicle to be extracted and implanted without being removed from the device or exposed to external environment, thereby eliminating intermediate handling time and reducing follicle stress.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous operation by allowing the needle to remain engaged with the follicle throughout the entire extraction and implantation process. The lock mechanism ensures the follicle remains secured during the transition from extraction to implantation, maintaining continuous protective action without interruption or exposure.
2Reliability
If traditional hair transplantation method with intermediate handling is used, then follicles can be transferred, but mechanical trauma occurs leading to thin and fragile hair shafts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges extraction and implantation into a single continuous operation using one integrated needle unit. This eliminates the need for separate handling, transfer, and manipulation steps that cause mechanical trauma, thereby preserving hair shaft integrity while actually simplifying the overall process flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism serves as an intermediary that secures the follicle during the critical transition phase. By providing continuous mechanical support and protection through the lock, the system eliminates the need for external handling instruments that would otherwise cause trauma to the hair shaft.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hair is shaved to 2mm or shorter prior to transplantation, then follicle extraction is easier, but long hair transplantation capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different functional zones to the needle structure. The extracting needle has a groove configuration optimized for grasping and extracting follicles with long hair attached, while the implantation needle has a separate groove designed for precise insertion. Each zone is optimized for its specific function regardless of hair length, enabling long hair transplantation without compromising extraction ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the needle grooves to accommodate long hair. The grooves are designed with specific dimensions and orientations that can grasp and secure follicles with longer hair shafts, allowing the device to adapt to varying hair lengths while maintaining effective extraction and implantation capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
Hair transplant systems and methods include or use a casing; an extracting needle having a first groove extending longitudinally from a distal end of the extracting needle, the first groove including a notch; a lock disposed on the extracting needle and configured to selectively close at least a portion of the first groove; and a pin extending through a center of the casing and configured to cause the extracting needle to selectively take in or eject a hair follicle.