Microprotrusion Retainer for Impact Applicator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for transdermal delivery of peptides and proteins face challenges such as insufficient delivery rate due to large size and molecular weight, degradation during penetration, and inconsistent manual application of microprotrusion arrays, which complicates repeatable and sterile handling.

Innovation Solution

A retainer system for a microprotrusion member that attaches to an impact applicator, protecting the microprotrusions during handling and ensuring consistent penetration by using frangible elements for activation, allowing for automatic and repeatable application to the stratum corneum.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If manual application of microprotrusion arrays is used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and consistency of penetration are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveapplication device complexityVSAvoidpenetration consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The retainer device is designed to automatically position and apply the microprotrusion array to the stratum corneum through a simple pressing motion, eliminating the need for complex automated penetration devices while ensuring consistent penetration depth through the self-aligning retainer structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The device is divided into separate functional components: the retainer holding the microprotrusion array, the applicator for positioning, and the microprotrusion member itself. This segmentation allows the retainer to be easily attached and detached while maintaining consistent positioning of the microprotrusions during application

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If microprotrusion arrays are handled manually, then ease of operation is improved, but object-generated harmful factors increase due to user risk and contamination

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvehandling easeVSAvoiduser risk and contamination

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The retainer acts as an intermediary between the user and the microprotrusion array. Users handle the retainer rather than the sharp microprotrusions directly, reducing the risk of injury and contamination while maintaining ease of operation through simple attachment and detachment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The retainer can be configured with a flexible or rigid outer shell that protects the microprotrusion array during handling and storage, while allowing controlled access during application. The retainer structure itself serves as a protective barrier between the user and the hazardous microprotrusions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

3Reliability

If frangible elements are used for activation, then reliability of penetration is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepenetration reliabilityVSAvoidretainer structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection between the retainer and microprotrusion array is divided into multiple frangible elements that can be independently designed and positioned. This segmentation allows for reliable activation while keeping individual element complexity low, as each frangible element is a simple breakable connection rather than a complex mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frangible elements are designed as simple, disposable connection features that are intended to break during the first use. Rather than complex reusable activation mechanisms, the design uses inexpensive, single-use frangible connections that ensure reliable penetration while minimizing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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 retainer system facilitates consistent and repeatable penetration of microprotrusions into the stratum corneum, enhancing transdermal delivery while maintaining sterility and reducing user risk, thereby improving the efficiency and reliability of peptide and protein delivery.

Implementation Method 1

a retainer for holding a microprotrusion member for application of the microprotrusion member to the stratum corneum by impact

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectImpact force: Impact Force

Data Source

PatentUS8753318B2Microprotrusion member retainer for impact applicator

Publication Date: 2014.06.17 ALZA CORP

AI summary

A retainer (34) is provided for holding a microprotrusion member (44) for application of the microprotrusion member (44) to the stratum corneum with an impact applicator (10). The microprotrusion member (44) includes a plurality of microprotrusions (90) which penetrate the stratum corneum to improve transport of an agent across the stratum corneum.