Uniaxial Stretching Clamp for Aligned Extracellular Matrix Fibers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for creating aligned fibers, such as electrospinning and photo-crosslinking, face limitations like high voltage toxicity and the need for sophisticated equipment, and existing nerve repair grafts struggle with tailored dimensions and Schwann cell distribution for effective nerve regeneration.
Innovation Solution
A clamp assembly with a mold that can be stretched and compressed uniaxially without moving its bases, allowing for the alignment of fibers and encapsulation of cells within a hydrogel, facilitating the creation of aligned extracellular matrix-based constructs for nerve repair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If electrospinning or photo-crosslinking methods are used to create aligned fibers, then fiber alignment can be achieved, but high voltage toxicity and sophisticated equipment requirements arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electrospinning or photo-crosslinking systems with a simple mechanical uniaxial stretching device. The stretching device applies uniaxial tension to a hydrogel mold containing precursor solution, causing collagen fibers to align naturally through mechanical deformation without requiring high voltage or sophisticated equipment. This mechanical approach directly resolves the contradiction by achieving fiber alignment through a simpler, more accessible mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and orientation parameters of collagen fibers through uniaxial stretching. By applying controlled mechanical stress in one direction, the random arrangement of collagen fibers is transformed into an aligned structure. This parameter change approach allows fiber alignment to be achieved through straightforward mechanical means rather than complex electrospinning or photochemical processes.
2Manufacturing precision
If existing nerve repair grafts are used, then nerve repair can be attempted, but tailored dimensions and Schwann cell distribution for effective regeneration are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates Schwann cells into the hydrogel precursor solution before the stretching and curing process. This preliminary cell incorporation ensures uniform cell distribution throughout the hydrogel matrix, which then maintains this distribution while undergoing uniaxial stretching to create aligned fibers. The preliminary action of cell incorporation before manufacturing allows for both dimensional customization and controlled cell distribution to be achieved simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests Schwann cells within the hydrogel matrix during the molding process, creating a structured arrangement where cells are embedded throughout the three-dimensional structure. This nesting approach, combined with uniaxial stretching, ensures that cells are distributed uniformly while maintaining the ability to customize the overall dimensions of the nerve repair graft.
3Manufacturing precision
If uniaxial stretching is applied to align fibers, then fiber alignment improves, but the complexity of the stretching device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stretching device is segmented into distinct functional components: a base structure, movable stretching elements, and a mold holder system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall device design while achieving effective uniaxial stretching. The base provides stable support, the movable elements apply controlled tension, and the mold holder ensures proper positioning, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining fiber alignment 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 solution enables the production of aligned fibers and cells within hydrogels, enhancing neuro-regenerative properties by promoting neurite outgrowth and ECM deposition, and providing a customizable scaffold for nerve repair with improved cell distribution and mechanical properties.
Implementation Method 1
the clamp assembly is operational to stretch and compress the clamped mold through uniaxial movement of the clamped mold
Implementation Method 2
curing the precursor solution on the clamped and stretched mold
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure pertain to a clamp assembly that includes: a first base and a second base; and a mold operational to be clamped between the first base and the second base. The clamp assembly is operational to stretch and compress the clamped mold without movement of the first base and the second base. For instance, each of the first base and the second base may include a plurality of apertures with pegs that are associated with the mold, where the pegs are operational for stretching and compressing the mold through adjustment. Further embodiments pertain to methods of moving a mold by utilizing the clamp assemblies of the present disclosure.