Microneedle Fluid Transport Device with Vacuum Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for obtaining blood or other fluids from the skin are complex, require sophisticated training, and are not easily performed in non-medical settings, lacking in simplicity and ease of operation.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a reversibly deformable structure with a high acceleration actuation mechanism for inserting microneedles into the skin, allowing for easy and efficient delivery or withdrawal of fluids, including a vacuum chamber for fluid transport and storage, and a storage chamber with anticoagulants or analyte-reacting entities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional phlebotomy equipment and procedures are used, then blood or fluid can be obtained from subjects, but the procedure becomes complicated and requires sophisticated training
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: microneedle array for skin penetration, vacuum chamber for fluid extraction, storage chamber for fluid collection, and deformable structure for actuation. Each module performs a specific function, simplifying the overall operation while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a self-actuating mechanism where the deformable structure automatically triggers microneedle insertion and fluid transfer when compressed, eliminating the need for complex manual manipulation or specialized training. The vacuum chamber self-regulates fluid extraction based on pressure differential.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional phlebotomy procedures are used, then blood can be obtained, but the procedure cannot be easily performed in non-medical settings
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed as a self-contained unit with integrated vacuum generation, fluid transport, and collection capabilities. The deformable structure provides intuitive actuation that does not require medical training, enabling use in non-medical settings such as fitness centers, pharmacies, or home environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The device can extract various types of bodily fluids (blood, interstitial fluid, plasma) through the same mechanism, making it adaptable to different applications and settings. The modular design allows potential customization for different fluid types and collection requirements.
3Productivity
If microneedles are inserted into the skin for fluid delivery or withdrawal, then fluid transport can be achieved, but the insertion process may cause pain or discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable structure provides rapid, impulsive actuation that inserts microneedles in a single quick motion rather than gradual penetration. This rapid periodic action minimizes the time microneedles are in contact with skin receptors, reducing perceived pain while maintaining effective fluid transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The device pre-positions microneedles in a retracted state within the deformable structure, ready for immediate insertion. The vacuum chamber is pre-evacuated to create the pressure differential needed for fluid extraction, eliminating delays and ensuring rapid, painless operation when activated.
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 provides a simple, pain-reducing, and efficient method for fluid extraction and delivery, capable of high-speed insertion and withdrawal with minimal discomfort, suitable for both medical and non-medical settings.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum chamber having an internal pressure less than atmospheric pressure before a fluid such as blood is withdrawn into the device
Implementation Method 2
a reversibly deformable structure which can provide advantage in ease of operation, speed of operation
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 2D~2E
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to systems and methods for delivering and/or withdrawing a substance or substances such as blood or interstitial fluid, from subjects, e.g., from the skin and/or from beneath the skin. In one aspect, the present invention is generally directed to devices and methods for withdrawing or extracting blood from a subject, e.g., from the skin and/or from beneath the skin, using devices containing a fluid transporter (for example, one or more microneedles), and a storage chamber having an internal pressure less than atmospheric pressure prior to receiving blood. In some cases, the device may be self-contained, and in certain instances, the device can be applied to the skin, and activated to withdraw blood from the subject. The device, or a portion thereof, may then be processed to determine the blood and/or an analyte within the blood, alone or with an external apparatus. For example, blood may be withdrawn from the device, and/or the device may contain sensors or agents able to determine the blood and/or an analyte suspected of being contained in the blood. Other aspects of the present invention are directed at other devices for withdrawing blood (or other bodily fluids, e.g., interstitial fluid), kits involving such devices, methods of making such devices, methods of using such devices, and the like.