Microneedle Patch Tracking With Sensors and Unique Identifiers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for tracking microneedle arrays lack a cohesive, end-to-end solution that integrates manufacturing, supply chain management, and patient data capture, leading to inefficiencies, human errors, and inadequate user-specific data integration, compromising patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a microneedle array patch with a unique identifier, sensors, and a networked information system that tracks the microneedle array from manufacturing to patient use, capturing vital data and ensuring compliance through integrated software applications for patients, clinicians, and manufacturers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual record-keeping and barcode systems are used for tracking microneedle arrays, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but tracking accuracy and data completeness deteriorate due to human errors and fragmented data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical tracking methods (barcode scanning, paper records) with an automated electronic tracking system that uses unique identifiers, sensors, and networked information systems to automatically capture and transmit data about microneedle arrays throughout their lifecycle, eliminating human error and improving tracking accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of microneedle array information through unique identifiers and electronic records that are maintained across multiple systems (manufacturing, supply chain, patient care), allowing seamless data exchange and eliminating fragmented data while maintaining system integrity
2Productivity
If isolated databases and fragmented tracking systems are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but data integration and decision-making efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges previously isolated databases and tracking systems into a unified end-to-end tracking system where unique identifiers link microneedle array data across manufacturing, supply chain, and patient care systems, enabling seamless data integration and real-time decision-making
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal tracking system using standardized unique identifiers and information exchange protocols that can be used across multiple stages (manufacturing, distribution, patient administration) and by multiple user groups (manufacturers, clinicians, patients), eliminating the need for separate fragmented systems
3Reliability
If comprehensive end-to-end tracking with patient data capture is implemented, then patient safety and treatment efficacy are improved, but system complexity and implementation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the tracking system into distinct functional modules (unique identifier generation, sensor data capture, information system storage, user interface applications) that can be independently implemented and scaled, allowing comprehensive patient safety monitoring without requiring all components to be deployed simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces unique identifiers as intermediary elements that link microneedle arrays to patient records and treatment data across different systems, enabling comprehensive tracking and patient safety monitoring without requiring direct integration between all system components
4Ease of operation
If unified system catering to multiple user groups (patients, clinicians, manufacturers) is implemented, then user-specific data access and treatment management are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides different user interfaces and data access levels tailored to specific user groups (patients see treatment information and status, clinicians see patient data and treatment outcomes, manufacturers see supply chain and compliance data), allowing each user type to access only the information relevant to their role while using the same underlying tracking system
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to microneedle array patches, and systems and devices including the same. Each microneedle array patch can include a plurality of microneedles including an agent that is loaded into at least a tip of the microneedles, a base structure configured to support the plurality of microneedles when force is applied against the second flat surface to insert the plurality of microneedles into skin; and an adhesive disposed around the plurality of microneedles, the adhesive configured to secure the base structure and the plurality of microneedles to the skin for a predetermined period of time. The microneedle array patches can include identifiers and/or sensors for measuring information regarding the microneedle array patches and/or retrieving information regarding the microneedle array patches.