PROJECT DEFINITION
OVERVIEW
Research has shown that monopolar radiofrequency tightens the skin and our clients are looking to apply this research in a clinical environment. By combining dermis rejuvenating agent delivery with energy delivery, our client seeks to optimize tissue rejuvenation, shortening procedure times while yielding better results.
PROJECT OBJECTIVES
Option 1: if current team doesn’t succeed
High Priority
Increase performance (injects almost all of fluid/enough storage capacity)
Second Priority
Works for all size pens
Minimize dead space
Shape of storage cavity
Other Constraints
Dead space
Thick fluid (nano-fat) could get stuck in needle
Needles do not break when skin is penetrated
Hollow
Option 2: if current team does succeed
High Priority
Integrate a radiofrequency generator to the Microneedle cartridge
Generator should be separate from the handpiece
Handpiece should allow placement of sterile cartridge
Second Priority
Reduce size
Plug and unplug radiofrequency generator
Should be to possible to sterilize device with gas
Add insulation to needles
Other Constraints
Insulation: make sure rest of the microneedle system does not fail due to heating from adding radiofrequency energy
More Insulation: insulate the outside of needles to prevent burning of the epidermis
RISK REDUCTION OBJECTIVES
Preliminary hardware test
Add fluid of similar viscosity to the existing microneedling system
Control dead space by measuring how much fluid comes in versus comes out
Can be done by precision measuring (ie: measuring how much mass is used)
Analysis and information gathering
Observe how the radio frequencies will heat up the needles
Heat transfer problem with fins
The maximum temperature until the epidermis burns
Determine the insulation
INTERMEDIATE MILESTONES
Reduce dead space and create a good cartridge
Add radiofrequency
Insulate needles