Sensor Device for Microneedle Application Evaluation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods lack devices and techniques for evaluating the correct application of microneedle arrays, particularly in ensuring accurate insertion depth, sufficient active ingredient release, and reproducibility independent of skin texture, as well as preventing diffusion to the skin surface.
Innovation Solution
A sensor device comprising a support unit with integrated transmitter and receiver coils, configured to emit and measure magnetic signals, allowing for non-contact eddy current testing to assess skin properties and active ingredient distribution, enabling real-time monitoring and feedback on application efficacy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microneedle arrays are applied to deliver active ingredients into the skin, then active ingredient delivery is achieved, but there is no method to evaluate correct application, insertion depth, and active ingredient release
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism by using sensors to detect skin properties (impedance, temperature, moisture) before, during, and after microneedle application. This feedback allows real-time evaluation of insertion depth, active ingredient release, and application correctness, enabling closed-loop control of the delivery process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical evaluation methods with electrical and optical sensing. Instead of using mechanical probes to assess insertion depth or release, the system uses impedance sensors, temperature sensors, and optical detectors to non-invasively measure skin properties and infer application quality.
2Reliability
If microneedles penetrate the skin to deliver active ingredients, then delivery effectiveness is improved, but it becomes difficult to monitor insertion depth and prevent nerve/blood vessel contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical measurement of insertion depth with electrical impedance sensing. Sensors placed on the skin surface measure impedance changes that correlate with needle penetration depth, providing indirect but accurate monitoring without requiring complex mechanical depth gauges or risking additional tissue damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces skin impedance as an intermediary parameter to infer insertion depth. Rather than directly measuring the physical depth of needle penetration, the system measures the electrical impedance of the skin-needle-tissue interface, which serves as a mediator that correlates with insertion depth while avoiding direct mechanical measurement complexities.
3Reliability
If active ingredient is released from microneedles, then therapeutic effect is achieved, but diffusion to skin surface and incorrect location application cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical sensors that detect changes in skin optical properties (absorption, scattering, fluorescence) resulting from active ingredient presence and distribution. These optical changes provide information about where the ingredient has gone, enabling detection of surface diffusion versus proper dermal retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors skin properties after active ingredient release and provides feedback on distribution patterns. By comparing post-application sensor readings with pre-application baselines, the system detects whether the ingredient remained in the target location or diffused to the surface, enabling real-time quality assessment.
4Measurement precision
If sensor units are placed in direct contact with skin for measurement, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but signal distortion and skin irritation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coupling medium (such as conductive gel or saline solution) as an intermediary between the sensor and skin. This mediator improves electrical contact and signal quality while reducing direct sensor-skin contact, thereby minimizing signal distortion from air gaps and reducing skin irritation from prolonged sensor attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical sensing methods as an alternative to direct electrical contact. Optical sensors can measure skin properties through non-contact or minimal-contact means, avoiding the signal distortion and irritation problems associated with pressed electrical electrodes while maintaining measurement capability.
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 sensor device provides immediate feedback on active ingredient delivery and distribution, ensuring correct application and efficient release, while minimizing surface diffusion, thus enhancing the reliability and effectiveness of microneedle array applications.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one transmitter is configured to output an electric and/or a magnetic signal to the skin
Implementation Method 2
The at least one receiver is configured to measure an electric and/or a magnetic signal from the skin
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor device for detecting properties of a skin area, including at least one sensor unit; and a support device connected to the sensor unit. The support device can be connected to the skin area to be detected; the sensor unit includes a transmitter for outputting an electrical and/or magnetic signal to the skin area to be detected, and a receiver for measuring a signal originating from the skin area, which signal results from the signal output by the transmitter. The invention also relates to a use of such a sensor device. In addition, the invention relates to a method for detecting the properties of a skin area.