Microneedle Patch Applicator With Spring-Loaded Plunger

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for applying intradermal microneedle array patches lack consistency and control in penetrating the skin, leading to potential skin damage and reduced efficacy due to improper handling and application techniques.

Innovation Solution

A microneedle array patch applicator device featuring a shaft, plunger, loading mechanism, and force applicator that allows for precise and reproducible insertion of microneedles into the skin, with adjustable load springs and a plunger release bar to ensure consistent penetration depth and minimal skin damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual application methods are used for microneedle patches, then the device complexity is reduced, but the penetration depth consistency and reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepenetration depth consistencyVSAvoidapplicator structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary applicator device that mediates between the user and the microneedle patch. The applicator includes a shaft, plunger, and loading mechanism that serve as intermediaries to deliver controlled penetration force, ensuring consistent intradermal delivery without requiring complex user technique

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator performs preliminary actions by pre-loading the microneedle patch onto the plunger and pre-positioning it against the skin surface. The loading mechanism prepares the patch in advance with the correct orientation and tension, eliminating variability introduced during manual application

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If increased force is applied to ensure microneedle penetration, then the penetration reliability improves, but the skin damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepenetration success rateVSAvoidskin damage

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the force application parameters by using a spring-loaded mechanism that delivers a predetermined, optimized force. The loading mechanism allows adjustment of penetration depth and force parameters, ensuring sufficient penetration reliability while limiting excessive force that would cause skin damage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The applicator incorporates beforehand cushioning through its spring-loaded design and controlled release mechanism. The spring absorbs excess force and the controlled release prevents sudden impacts, cushioning the skin against damaging forces while maintaining adequate penetration pressure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Manufacturing precision

If the plunger is held in place during application, then the penetration depth control improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepenetration depth controlVSAvoidapplication simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The applicator employs self-service through its spring-loaded holding mechanism that automatically secures the microneedle patch in the correct position. The spring-loaded plunger holder maintains precise positioning without requiring continuous user intervention, and the mechanism services itself by maintaining tension and readiness

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by using a spring-loaded plunger holder that can dynamically adjust to maintain optimal tension. The holding mechanism transitions between held and released states smoothly, allowing the user to simply press a button for release while the spring maintains precise positioning during the application phase

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 enables reliable and reproducible application of microneedle array patches with controlled penetration, enhancing the delivery of therapeutic agents while minimizing skin damage and ensuring the structural integrity of the microneedles.

Implementation Method 1

a loading mechanism operably associated with the plunger within the shaft, the loading mechanism having a plunger load and a load spring, the plunger load positioned at a second end of the shaft, the load spring surrounding the plunger

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSpring: Spring

Data Source

PatentUS20220249822A1Applicator for Intradermal Microneedle Patches

Publication Date: 2022.08.11 TOKITAE LLC

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to applicators for microneedle array patches and methods of application of microneedle array patches to a skin surface. The applicator can include a shaft having an opening at a first end for affixing a microneedle array patch, a plunger positioned substantially within the shaft, a loading mechanism operably associated with the plunger within the shaft, and a force applicator. The method can include affixing the microneedle array patch to a first end of a plunger of a microneedle array patch applicator, loading the plunger and the affixed microneedle array patch to a loaded position, positioning the opening against the skin region of the individual and operating the force applicator to release the plunger.