Sterile Applicator Assembly with Microneedle Array for Contamination-Free Liquid Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for distributing treatment liquids, such as PRP, onto the skin are contaminated due to the use of non-sterile gloves, and there is a need for a sterile applicator that can effectively spread liquids without wasting the product and facilitate microneedling applications.
Innovation Solution
A sterile applicator assembly that attaches to a syringe, featuring a soft polymer applicator with 'koosh' extensions for even distribution and a detachable microneedle platform for percutaneous delivery, ensuring continuous lumen for fluid flow and minimizing product waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a gloved finger is used to distribute liquid product onto the skin, then the distribution process is simple, but contamination occurs because the gloves are not sterile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sterile applicator as an intermediary tool between the clinician and the skin surface. The applicator includes a sterile applicator tip that contacts the skin, replacing the non-sterile gloved finger. This intermediary device maintains sterility while enabling the distribution function, thus eliminating contamination without complicating the operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator is designed as a single-use, disposable sterile device. The applicator tip and associated components are packaged sterile and discarded after use, eliminating the need for sterilization and reuse. This approach ensures sterility while maintaining operational simplicity, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and contamination prevention.
2Ease of operation
If a soft applicator is used to spread liquid, then the applicator is comfortable for skin contact, but the liquid may be absorbed and wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator tip is constructed with specific local properties: the outer surface is soft and compliant for skin contact, while the inner surface and structure are designed to be non-absorbent. This local quality differentiation allows the applicator to be comfortable during use while preventing liquid absorption and product waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The applicator utilizes composite material structures combining soft, skin-compliant materials with non-absorbent properties. The applicator tip may incorporate a soft outer layer for comfort and a non-absorbent inner layer or coating to prevent liquid uptake, achieving both comfort and product conservation through material composition.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a sterile applicator is designed with multiple components, then sterility is ensured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sterile applicator is segmented into distinct components: a sterile applicator tip, a connector, and a cannula. These segments can be sterilized separately and assembled in a controlled manner, or pre-assembled and sterilized as a unit. The segmentation allows for simplified sterilization processes while maintaining sterility, reducing the complexity burden.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functional components are merged into a single sterile unit that can be packaged and sterilized together. The applicator tip, connector, and cannula are combined in a configuration that maintains sterility throughout the assembly and packaging process, reducing the number of separate sterilization steps and simplifying the overall device complexity while ensuring sterility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a cannula is included in the applicator assembly, then fluid can be drawn through the cannula into the syringe, but the continuous lumen requirement adds design constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous lumen design serves multiple functions: it allows fluid to be drawn from the cannula into the syringe, enables the syringe to be removed while maintaining fluid flow capability, and allows the applicator to express and distribute the fluid. This multi-functionality is achieved through a universal continuous lumen structure that simplifies the design despite the added constraint.
Data Source
AI summary
A soft tip applicator with flexible tendrils attaches to a syringe for spreading expressed liquid from the syringe onto a surface, such as skin. A detachable microneedle assembly supports microneedling treatment of the skin as the liquid is expressed.