Syringe System with Floating Septum for Hydrogel Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved dispensers that facilitate the complete mixing of solids and/or liquids while maintaining sterility and allowing for separate storage of components until use, and also serve as applicators for precise application of the mixture, particularly for polymerizable hydrogel formulations in medical applications.
Innovation Solution
A syringe system with a floating hydrophobic septum and a plunger that separates and mixes aqueous solutions and polymerizable components, using a hydrophobic porous filter to prevent premature mixing during sterilization and allowing for precise application of the mixed hydrogel formulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a syringe system with separate compartments is used to store and mix components, then mixing completeness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The syringe is divided into multiple compartments (first compartment for aqueous solution, second compartment for polymerizable component) separated by a movable partition. This segmentation allows complete mixing only when needed, while maintaining simplicity of individual components and enabling thorough mixing through controlled combination.
2Reliability
If components are stored separately until use, then premature polymerization is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The syringe is divided into multiple compartments (first compartment for aqueous solution, second compartment for polymerizable component) separated by a movable partition. This segmentation allows complete mixing only when needed, while maintaining simplicity of individual components and enabling thorough mixing through controlled combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The components are prepared and stored in separate compartments before use, with the partition positioned to keep them separated. This preliminary separation prevents premature polymerization and maintains sterility, while the partition can be easily moved to allow mixing when needed.
3Device complexity
If a simple direct placement method is used for sealant delivery, then device complexity is reduced, but delivery precision is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The partition is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to be positioned at different locations within the syringe. This dynamic positioning enables precise control over the mixing ratio and timing of components, improving delivery precision while maintaining relative simplicity of the overall device structure.
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 system effectively mixes and applies polymerizable hydrogel formulations, maintaining sterility and preventing premature polymerization, ensuring accurate delivery and minimizing swelling issues, thus enhancing the efficacy of hydrogel application in medical procedures.
Implementation Method 1
the hydrophobic septum repels the liquid such that the liquid does not pass through the hydrophobic septum absent pressure applied by the plunger
Implementation Method 2
the hydrophobic septum comprises a hydrophobic porous filter
Data Source
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AI summary
One aspect of the invention relates to a simple, inexpensive applicator system which can be used for the delivery of a hydrogel formulation. In certain embodiments, the applicator system is suitable for use in sealing of dura mater, especially dura matter within the spinal column. In other embodiments, the applicator system may be used to repair cardiovascular defects, defects of the gall or urinary bladder, or repair of any of the other ducts within the body.