Staggered Adhesive Patch Layout for Wearable Pump Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable medical devices for controlled release of therapeutics face challenges such as malfunction rates, size, weight, and cost, and there is a need for a wearable device that can automatically deliver drugs over time, especially for medications with poor absorption or requiring frequent administration.
Innovation Solution
A repeater system for controlling medical devices that includes circuitry for signal reception and transmission between wearable medical devices and a user interface, allowing for remote monitoring and control, along with an adhesive patch system for secure attachment of devices to the body, and a method for filling reservoirs with therapeutic liquids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If portable medical devices are made smaller and lighter, then wearability and patient comfort are improved, but device complexity and manufacturing challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components including a pump module, reservoir, control circuitry, and adhesive patch system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for weight and complexity, while maintaining overall device functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive patch serves multiple functions: it secures the device to the patient's body, provides a barrier against fluid leakage, and houses integrated circuitry for wireless communication and control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If adhesive strength is increased to ensure secure attachment, then device stability is improved, but skin irritation and comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The adhesive patch uses different adhesive formulations in different regions: a stronger adhesive at the corners for secure anchoring, and a gentler adhesive in the central area that contacts the skin directly. This local differentiation maintains attachment stability while minimizing skin irritation.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive patch includes a protective barrier layer between the adhesive and the skin that prevents direct irritation while maintaining secure attachment. This barrier is applied beforehand to cushion the skin from harmful adhesive effects.
3Extent of automation
If automated drug delivery is implemented, then treatment compliance is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates sensors that automatically detect fluid levels, pump status, and patient physiological parameters, then autonomously adjust delivery parameters without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability maintains high automation while reducing control system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes integrated sensors that provide real-time feedback on fluid reservoir levels, pump operation status, and delivery accuracy. This feedback loop enables automated adjustment of delivery parameters and alerts clinicians to potential issues, simplifying the control system while maintaining high automation.
Data Source
AI summary
A repeater system may control a pump by using a repeater and a user interface. An adhesive patch system may be used for affixing a pump or other object to a human body. Such an adhesive patch system may include two sets of adhesive members, each member including an adhesive material on at least one side so as to attach to the body. The members of the first set are spaced to allow the members of the second set to attach to the body in spaces provided between the members of the first set, and the members of the second set are spaced to allow members of the first set to detach from the body without detaching the members of the second set. Also, fill stations and base stations are provided for personal pump systems.