Micro-Needling Array with Crank Mechanism for Tissue Trauma Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current motorized micro-needling devices suffer from limitations such as small disposable cartridge tips leading to dragging motions, increased tissue trauma, operator-dependent depth of penetration, and potential 'backflow contamination' due to inadequate mechanisms for converting rotational to linear motion.
Innovation Solution
A micro-needling system featuring a pushrod with linear reciprocating motion driven by a rotary motor, a crank mechanism to convert rotational motion into linear motion, and a needle tip connector for secure attachment of a micro-needle array assembly, which includes a disc-shaped attachment plate with an array of needles and a safety cap, allowing for precise control and minimizing tissue trauma.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a small disposable cartridge tip is used, then the device is easier to operate and more portable, but it causes dragging motions that increase tissue trauma
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into a reusable motorized body and a replaceable needle array assembly. The needle array assembly can be segmented into different configurations (e.g., 12, 24, 36 needles) allowing optimization of treatment area coverage without increasing overall device complexity. This segmentation enables the use of larger effective treatment areas that prevent dragging motions while maintaining ease of operation through simple assembly and replacement of needle cartridges.
2Device complexity
If manual pressure control is used, then the device is simpler in structure, but the depth of penetration becomes operator-dependent and less precise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical pressure control with an electric motor-driven reciprocating mechanism. The motor drives a pushrod that moves the needle array in precise reciprocating motions, eliminating operator-dependent pressure variations. The motor speed and stroke length can be controlled to ensure consistent needle penetration depth, while the overall device remains relatively simple in structure with common mechanical components like bearings, springs, and housing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a reciprocating motion mechanism is implemented, then tissue trauma is reduced and treatment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic reciprocating motion of the needle array through a motor-driven mechanism. The needle array moves forward to penetrate the skin, then retracts to allow fresh needles to be presented for the next treatment pass. This periodic action reduces tissue trauma by avoiding continuous dragging, and the mechanism can be achieved with relatively simple components including a motor, pushrod, bearings, and spring-loaded retraction systems that are commonly available in medical devices.
4Productivity
If multiple needles are used in an array, then treatment efficiency is improved, but the risk of backflow contamination increases without proper design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates preliminary protective design features in the needle array assembly, including sealed cartridge designs and directional needle orientations that prevent backflow of tissue fluids into the device before contamination can occur. The needle array is designed with features that channel fluids away from the motor and electronic components, and the cartridge sealing is built-in during manufacturing. This preliminary protection allows efficient multi-needle treatment while minimizing contamination risk through design rather than requiring complex active prevention 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
The system reduces tissue trauma, prevents 'backflow contamination, and enables efficient transcutaneous penetration with a 'tapping' motion rather than 'dragging', allowing for faster treatment with improved control over needle depth and reduced inflammation.
Implementation Method 1
a crank working in cooperation with a crank arm to convert rotation motion of the rotating motor shaft into linear reciprocating motion of the pushrod
Data Source
AI summary
A micro-needling system, the system includes a micro-channeling device, a needle tip connector and a variety of micro-needling assemblies. The micro-channeling device is designed to provide reciprocal motion, in and out of skin, for the micro-needling assemblies when applied to skin. A quick connector is provided for easy interchange of the micro-needling assemblies. Benefits of the system include ergonomic holding, versatility of needle arrays and reduced vibration.