Photopolymerizable Nail Correction Kit to Reduce Tissue Irritation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for correcting misgrown toenails or fingernails, such as surgery and non-surgical braces, are either painful or cause tissue irritations, and the multi-layer polymer system described in WO 2011/039243 A1 is not reproducible.
Innovation Solution
A kit comprising a primer with hydroxyethylene methacrylate and phosphate dimethacrylate for improved adhesion, a photopolymerizable nail brace with bisphenol A (di)methacrylate and urethane dimethacrylate for mechanical adjustment, and optional metallic spring braces for correction, using light-curing technology to avoid mechanical irritations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a nail correction brace is fitted under the nail, then mechanical correction force is applied, but tissue irritations occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a photopolymerizable composition as an intermediary substance between the nail correction brace and the nail bed. This composition allows the brace to be attached to the nail plate while distributing mechanical forces more evenly, preventing direct contact and irritation between the brace and sensitive nail bed tissues. The composition acts as a cushioning layer that maintains correction effectiveness while reducing harmful mechanical stress concentrations.
2Shape
If complete nail removal is performed, then severe curvature is corrected, but the treatment is painful and the new nail grows curved again
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary mechanical correction forces to the nail plate before complete nail removal would be necessary. By attaching a correction brace to the dorsal surface of the nail and applying gradual mechanical forces through the photopolymerizable composition, the nail is guided into a more normal growth pattern over time, preventing the development of severe curvature that would require painful surgical intervention.
3Reliability
If adhesion agent is applied to improve photopolymer to nail bonding, then correction effectiveness increases, but composition complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the adhesion agent function with the photopolymerizable composition itself. Rather than applying a separate adhesion layer, the composition contains photopolymerizable monomers and oligomers that inherently bond to the nail plate through light-curing, creating a strong adhesive interface. This integration eliminates the need for separate adhesion steps while maintaining reliable bonding between the brace and nail.
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
Enables effective and reproducible correction of ingrown nails with improved adhesion and mechanical properties, reducing tissue irritations and fungal infestations, while allowing for aesthetic appearance and durability.
Implementation Method 1
a photopolymerizable material b for making a light-curing nail brace
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a kit for performing a nail correction method for a human or animal toenail or fingernail.