Microneedle Applicator Counter Assembly and Force Dampening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microneedle applicators face challenges in ensuring safety and ease of use, particularly for unskilled users, as they often require precise control to avoid skin damage and unintended penetration, and there is a need for mechanisms to limit force and count the number of uses for reusable microneedle arrays.
Innovation Solution
The development of a microneedle applicator with a counter assembly to track the number of uses, a force-dampening mechanism to control penetration depth, and a movable cover to prevent premature exposure, ensuring safe and intuitive operation by limiting the maximum force applied and indicating when to change the microneedle array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microneedle applicators are designed for precise penetration control, then penetration accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a counter assembly that automatically counts the number of times the microneedle array has been applied to skin before requiring user intervention. This preliminary automated counting action eliminates the need for users to manually track applications, maintaining penetration accuracy through consistent counting while reducing operational complexity for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator device performs self-counting of applications through the counter assembly, which automatically increments with each use. This self-service mechanism ensures accurate tracking of penetration events without requiring external monitoring or complex user input, thereby maintaining measurement precision while simplifying the overall device operation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If force-dampening mechanism is added to limit maximum force, then skin damage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a force-dampening mechanism that includes a spring element positioned between the plunger and the microneedle array holder. This spring element provides beforehand cushioning by absorbing excess force during application, preventing skin damage before it occurs. The mechanism is integrated into the existing plunger assembly, minimizing additional complexity while ensuring safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The force-dampening mechanism acts as an intermediary element between the user's pressing force and the microneedle array. The spring-loaded plunger assembly mediates the force transmission, allowing controlled penetration while preventing excessive force application. This intermediary mechanism protects the skin without requiring complex external control systems.
3Reliability
If movable cover is added to prevent premature exposure, then safety is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable cover that automatically positions itself to cover the microneedle array after application. This preliminary protective action ensures safety by preventing premature exposure or accidental activation. The cover is spring-loaded to automatically return to the covering position, maintaining safety without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable cover operates on a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically returns the cover to its protective position after use. This self-service feature ensures the microneedle array is consistently protected without requiring user attention, thereby maintaining safety while minimizing operational complexity. The user simply needs to manually move the cover during loading, and the system handles the rest automatically.
Data Source
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AI summary
A microneedle applicator. The applicator can include a microneedle array, a microneedle array holder, and an actuator movable between a first position and a second position to cause the microneedle array holder to move, respectively, between a retracted position and an extended position. The applicator can further include a first biasing element configured to bias the actuator in the first position, and a counter assembly, or mechanism, configured to count a number of times the microneedle array holder is moved between the retracted position and the extended position (or the number of times the actuator is moved from the first position to the second position). In some embodiments, the counter assembly can include the actuator and first biasing element.