Microneedle Sampling Device With Vacuum Chamber
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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 suitable for non-medical settings, necessitating improvements in fluid delivery and withdrawal techniques.
Innovation Solution
A simple, one-piece device with a high acceleration actuation mechanism for inserting microneedles into the skin, featuring a vacuum chamber and storage chamber to facilitate blood withdrawal, along with a support structure for efficient fluid transport and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional phlebotomy equipment and procedures are used, then reliable blood sampling can be achieved, but the device complexity and training requirements increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (needle insertion, blood collection, vacuum generation, and sealing) into a single integrated device. The microneedle array is integrated with a vacuum chamber and storage chamber in one piece, eliminating the need for separate hypodermic needles, syringes, and vacuum equipment used in traditional phlebotomy.
Solution Approach 2:
The device generates its own vacuum through a deformable structure that creates negative pressure when pressed against the skin. This self-contained vacuum generation eliminates the need for external vacuum pumps or evacuated tubes, making the device autonomous and easier to use.
2Quantity of substance
If traditional phlebotomy procedures are used, then adequate blood flow can be obtained, but the procedure time and practitioner training requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is pre-configured with a vacuum chamber that is already evacuated before use. The microneedle array is pre-positioned and ready for immediate insertion. When the device is activated by pressing against the skin, the pre-established vacuum immediately draws blood through the microneedles without requiring manual manipulation or waiting for blood flow to establish.
3Ease of operation
If microneedles are used for blood withdrawal, then device simplicity and ease of use improve, but ensuring adequate blood collection may be difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a vacuum chamber connected to the microneedle array to create negative pressure that actively draws blood through the microneedles. This pneumatic mechanism ensures adequate blood collection by providing a pressure gradient that overcomes the limited individual needle diameter, allowing sufficient blood flow despite using small microneedles.
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 easy, rapid, and minimally painful blood withdrawal with high success rates, suitable for both medical and non-medical settings, reducing the need for extensive training and equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a vacuum chamber having an internal pressure less than atmospheric pressure before blood is withdrawn into the device
Implementation Method 2
when the device is applied to the surface of the skin of a subject and the structure is deformed, the fluid transporter is driven into the skin of the subject
Data Source
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, in some cases, may be interfaced with external equipment to determine an analyte contained within a fluid contained within or collected by the device. For example, the device may be mounted or engaged on an external holder, the device may include a port for transporting fluid out of the device, the device may include a window for interrogating a fluid contained within the device, or the like. 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.