Microstructured Surface Peak Geometry for Cleanability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Microstructured surfaces, while effective in reducing biofilm formation, can be difficult to clean due to the size of bristles or fibers used for cleaning being larger than the spacing between microstructures, and existing surfaces may not provide adequate removal of microorganisms and dirt.
Innovation Solution
A microstructured surface with peak structures and adjacent valleys, where the valleys have a maximum width ranging from 10 microns to 250 microns and peak structures have side wall angles greater than 10 degrees, is used, along with a pressure-sensitive adhesive for application to various articles, facilitating improved cleaning and microbial removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a microstructured surface with small spacing between features is used to reduce biofilm formation, then biofilm resistance is improved, but cleanability deteriorates because cleaning bristles or fibers are larger than the space between microstructures
Solution Approach 1:
The surface is segmented into distinct peak structures and valleys, creating a hierarchical structure where the overall pattern provides biofilm resistance while the individual feature geometry (with side wall angles greater than 10 degrees) enables cleaning access. This segmentation allows different regions to serve different functions: the peak structures prevent biofilm formation while the angled surfaces allow cleaning tools to reach into valleys and remove contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the microstructured surface have different geometric properties optimized for specific functions. The peak structures have specific side wall angles greater than 10 degrees that facilitate cleaning access, while the valleys provide spaces that prevent biofilm formation. This local variation in geometry allows the surface to simultaneously achieve both biofilm resistance and cleanability.
2Ease of operation
If conventional smooth surfaces are used, then cleanability is maintained, but microorganism removal efficacy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The microstructured surface uses curved or angled peak structures with side wall angles greater than 10 degrees, creating surfaces that facilitate cleaning tool access while maintaining microorganism removal efficacy. The curved geometry of the peaks allows cleaning bristles or fibers to effectively contact and remove microorganisms from the surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a conventional two-dimensional smooth surface to a three-dimensional microstructured surface with peaks and valleys. This dimensional change creates additional surfaces and angles that enhance both cleanability (by providing access pathways) and microorganism removal efficacy (by creating mechanical disruption of microbial attachments).
Data Source
AI summary
Films and articles are described comprising a microstructured surface having an array of peak structures and adjacent valleys. For improved cleanability, the valleys preferably have a maximum width ranging from 10 microns to 250 microns and the peak structures have a side wall angle greater than 10 degrees. The peak structures may comprise two or more facets such as in the case of a linear array of prisms or an array of cube-corners elements. The facets form continuous or semi-continuous surfaces in the same direction. The valleys typically lack intersecting walls. Also described are methods of making and methods of use. The microstructured surface of the article can be prepared by various microreplication techniques such as coating, injection molding, embossing, laser etching, extrusion, casting and curing a polymerizable resin; and bonding microstructured film to a surface or article with an adhesive.