Non-Line-of-Sight Micro-Nano Structure Formation on Titanium Implants

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for forming microscale and nanoscale structures on titanium-based biomedical implants face challenges in controlling the concentration and uniformity of these structures, particularly on internal surfaces that cannot be accessed by line-of-sight processes.

Innovation Solution

A non-line-of-sight method involving exposure to an oxidizing environment, followed by a reducing agent to form a composite oxide scale, and subsequent dissolution to create a porous surface layer with high concentrations of micro- and nano-structures on both external and internal surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If line-of-sight processes (such as grit blasting) are used to generate nano- and micro-structures on titanium-based materials, then the structures can be formed on accessible surfaces, but the method cannot access internal surfaces and has difficulty controlling the concentration and uniformity of the structures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconcentration and uniformity of nano- and micro-structuresVSAvoidaccessibility to internal surfaces

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical line-of-sight processes (grit blasting) with a chemical vapor deposition system where precursor gases diffuse and react throughout the entire device geometry, enabling uniform microstructure formation on both external and internal surfaces simultaneously

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The chemical vapor deposition process serves multiple functions: it forms microstructures on external surfaces, reaches internal surfaces through gas diffusion, and provides uniform coverage throughout complex geometries, making the process universally applicable to any device shape

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Quantity of substance

If conventional methods are used to form micro- and nano-structures on titanium-based materials, then some surface structures can be created, but the concentration and uniformity of these structures cannot be adequately controlled

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconcentration of micro- and nano-structuresVSAvoiduniformity of micro- and nano-structures

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent controls the concentration and uniformity of microstructures by adjusting process parameters including precursor gas flow rates, reaction temperature, pressure, and exposure time, allowing precise control over the quantity and distribution of formed structures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The process allows for monitoring and control of microstructure formation through characterization techniques, enabling adjustment of process parameters to achieve desired concentration and uniformity levels

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

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

This method enables the production of titanium-based devices with uniform, high concentrations of micro- and nano-structures on both external and internal surfaces, enhancing biocompatibility and osseointegration for biomedical applications.

Implementation Method 1

exposing a surface of the device having an initial microstructure to an oxidizing environment at a first elevated temperature so as to form a first oxide scale on the surface of the device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOxidation: Oxidation

Implementation Method 2

exposing the first oxide scale to a reducing agent at a second elevated temperature so as to convert or partially convert the first oxide scale into a composite scale that includes a second oxide and a first metal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReduction: Reduction

Implementation Method 3

exposing the composite scale to a dissolution agent that selectively dissolves part or all of the second oxide so as to yield a porous surface layer that includes the first metal

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectDissolution: Solvation

Data Source

PatentUS20240043984A9Methods for forming microscale and/or nanoscale structures on surfaces and devices including biomedical devices having surfaces with such structures

Publication Date: 2024.02.08 PURDUE RES FOUND

AI summary

Methods for forming micro- and/or nano-structures on the surfaces of a device and devices made thereby. The methods include exposing the surfaces of the device having an initial microstructure to an oxidizing environment at a first elevated temperature so as to form a first oxide scale on the device surfaces, exposing the first oxide scale to a reducing agent at a second elevated temperature so as to convert or partially convert the first oxide scale into a composite scale that includes a second oxide and a first metal, and exposing the composite scale to a dissolution agent that selectively dissolves part or all of the second oxide so as to yield a porous surface layer that includes the first metal.