Microneedle Sheet with Bending-Induced Protrusion and Skin Tear Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microneedle devices have exposed microelements that can touch or get caught in objects before the active component is applied, posing safety concerns during handling.
Innovation Solution
A microneedle sheet design where the microneedles conform to the principal surface until bent, ensuring they do not protrude before application, and include holes to expose tears in the skin for increased active component delivery without removing the microneedles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If microneedles are exposed on the roller surface, then active component can be applied through microneedles, but microneedles may touch or get caught in other objects before application causing safety concerns
Solution Approach 1:
The microneedles are pre-formed on the sheet in a non-protruding state (conforming to the principal surface) before use. The protrusion action is delayed until the moment of application when the sheet is bent, ensuring safety during handling while enabling the intended function at the appropriate time
Solution Approach 2:
The microneedle configuration changes from a non-protruding state (when the sheet is flat) to a protruding state (when the sheet is bent). This dynamic transformation allows the system to adapt its properties based on the operational stage, providing safety during handling and effectiveness during application
2Productivity
If microneedles are removed after insertion, then skin tears are exposed for active component entry, but the device complexity increases and requires additional removal steps
Solution Approach 1:
The microneedle sheet incorporates specific structural features (such as tapered portions or flexible regions) that create localized skin tears upon insertion. These local structural modifications enable the skin to open pathways for active component delivery without requiring complete microneedle removal
Solution Approach 2:
The microneedle sheet design allows the skin itself to create the necessary openings (tears) through the insertion action. The structural features of the microneedles facilitate this self-opening mechanism, eliminating the need for manual removal or additional devices to create entry pathways
Data Source
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AI summary
A microneedle sheet in an embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of microneedles formed on a sheet generally along a principal surface of the sheet. The microneedles are configured to rise from the principal surface when the sheet is bent, and the raised microneedles pierce skin. At least some of the microneedles each have a region for exposing a tear formed in the skin in a needle inserted state.