Novel Processing Method and Apparatus for Micro-Structured Rope-Like Material

University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed a novel method for processing degradable and non-degradable polymers into micro-structured rope-like materials. This invention addresses significant needs in tissue engineering applications, including the development of engineered tendons, nerves, ligaments, and suture materials. The innovation overcomes limitations of existing technologies, allowing to produce continuous rope-like materials of unlimited length and controlled diameters. This new processing method is expected to improve regenerative medicine, offering advanced materials for tissue repair and regeneration.

The illustration depicts schematically aspects of an apparatus as the described technology herein.

Description

The new processing method utilizes a mandrel-less electrospinning system, enhanced with moving electrodes and a rope coiling mechanism, to produce micro-structured rope-like materials with circular cross-sections. This system enables the creation of continuous fibers of unlimited length, which can be layered with various orientations, such as longitudinal, circumferential, or oblique. The rope's diameter and fiber orientation can be precisely controlled, making it ideal for applications such as engineered tendons, nerves, ligaments, and sutures.

Applications

- Tissue Engineering
- Surgical Materials
- Biomedical Research

Advantages

This innovative processing method offers several key advantages, including the ability to produce continuous rope-like materials of unlimited length, providing flexibility for various tissue engineering applications. The system allows precise control over the diameter of the constructs, making it adaptable to different tissue types, such as tendons, nerves, and ligaments. Additionally, it enables the assembly of fibers into multiple layers with different orientations, including longitudinal, circumferential, and oblique arrangements, enhancing the structural integrity and functionality of the material.

Invention Readiness

The prototype for the micro-structured rope-like material processing method has been successfully developed and tested. The system consists of two towers equipped with rotating electrodes, a polymer injector, and a spool mechanism designed for continuous production.

IP Status

https://patents.google.com/patent/US12077885B2