DRAPES WITH REGIONS WITH HIGHER ADHESIVE PROPERTIES

This disclosure describes devices, systems, and methods related to dressings with regions with different adhesive properties, and manufacture and use thereof. An illustrative dressing includes a first region including a first adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness. The dressing further includes at least a second region including a second adhesive material. The second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. The first adhesive material is configured to maintain the first tackiness when the second adhesive material in the second phase.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to drapes, such as a drape for use with medical devices, and more specifically, but not by way of limitation, to an apparatus including the drape.

BACKGROUND

Some therapy devices that provide therapeutic pressure to a wound site utilize a drape to create a pressurized treatment or therapy area. The drape may be attached to the wound site via adhesive and to the therapy device using tubing. For example, a drape may be attached to a wound site using silicone gel adhesive. However, silicone adhesives typically have a lower tackiness (e.g., stickiness), and often do not offer sufficient bond/peel strength and wearability time as compared to conventional acrylic adhesives. Acrylic adhesives have a higher tackiness than silicone adhesives and may provide sufficient bond/peel strength and wearability time. However, when it comes time to remove a drape attached with conventional acrylic adhesives, the higher tackiness of the conventional acrylic adhesive may cause trauma to the skin of a wearer when the drape is removed. Additionally, a drape attached with only acrylic adhesive is not repositionable, which can cause problems because drapes have a tendency to bunch up, making it difficult for the wearer to correctly apply the drape the first time. In order to attach some types drapes or dressings, such as island dressings, such that they stay in place for the desired amount of time, additional strips of dressing (including the conventional acrylic adhesive) may be cut and attached to the edges of the island drape (or dressing) to more firmly secure the island drape to the skin. However, this requires additional materials (e.g., strips of dressing) and it is more complicated and labor intensive to attach island dressings in this manner.

SUMMARY

This disclosure describes drapes, devices including drapes, and systems and methods related to forming and/or using drapes. The drapes described herein have regions with adhesive materials with different tackiness (e.g., stickiness). The adhesives may additionally have different peel strengths. To illustrate, a drape described herein includes a first region that includes a first adhesive material and at least a second region that includes a second adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness, and the second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. In some implementations, the first tackiness and the second tackiness are the same. Accordingly, the drape may be repositionable when the second adhesive material is in the first phase (e.g., because the second tackiness is low enough such that the drape may be removed and repositioned), and the drape may provide sufficient bond/peel strength to prevent leaks when the second adhesive material is in the second phase (e.g., due to the higher third tackiness). Additionally, a peel strength of the second adhesive material in the first phase may be low enough such that a combination of the tack and the peel strength is low enough such that the drape may be removed and repositioned without trauma. A peel strength of the second adhesive material in the second phase provides sufficient adhesion/bond strength to prevent leaks when the second adhesive material is in the second phase. Furthermore, because only a portion (e.g., the second region) of the drape has the higher tackiness (and optionally higher peel strength), the drape may be removed without causing trauma to the skin of a wearer, as compared to a drape that entirely has the third tackiness. Thus drapes, such as island drapes or island dressings, may be repositionable at some times and prevent or mitigate leaks at others, without requiring additional adhesive strips to attach the island drapes.

The second adhesive material may be transitioned from the first phase to the second phase by receipt of an energy input. As a non-limiting example, the energy input may include mechanical force, e.g., pressure. To illustrate, the first adhesive material may include a silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material may include a silicone gel adhesive that contains encapsulated acrylic adhesive. Applying force/pressure to the second region may break the encapsulation of the acrylic adhesive, causing the acrylic adhesive to bond with the tissue site and increase the tackiness from the second tackiness to the third tackiness.

In other examples, the encapsulation of the acrylic adhesive may be broken down by application of infrared light, ultraviolet light, ultrasound, or heat to the second region. In other examples, other types of adhesive, such as rosins, tackifiers, etc., may be used instead of acrylic adhesive. In still other implementations, the second adhesive material may be a light switchable adhesive that transitions from the first phase to the second phase in response to receipt of light, such as visible light or ultraviolet light, to the second region. For example, the light switchable adhesive may be inactive or partially cured in the first phase such that the tackiness is low (and the drape is repositionable), and the light switchable adhesive may be “activated” or cured to increase curing in the second phase (e.g., by application of light to the second region) such that the tackiness increases, to secure the drape to the skin and to prevent leaks.

Thus, the drapes of the present disclosure may be repositionable, as compared to conventional drapes. Additionally, the drapes of the present disclosure, due to the two phases of the second adhesive material, may have sufficient tackiness and peel strength to improve wear time and prevent leaks while still being removable without causing (or reducing) trauma, such as maceration and tissue damage, at a tissue site when removed. Reducing (or eliminating) trauma may improve patient comfort with the drape.

Some embodiments of the present drapes comprise: a first region including a first adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness. The drapes further comprise at least a second region including a second adhesive material. The second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. The first adhesive material is configured to maintain the first tackiness when the second adhesive material is in the second phase.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present drapes, the first tackiness is the same as the second tackiness. Additionally, or alternatively, the second adhesive material includes at least one component that is not included in the first adhesive material.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present drapes, the first adhesive material comprises a silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material comprises a releasable acrylic adhesive. In some such embodiments, the releasable acrylic adhesive is encapsulated in one or more shells when the second adhesive material is in the first phase, and the releasable acrylic adhesive is released when the second adhesive material is in the second phase. Alternatively, the first adhesive material comprises silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material comprises releasable rosin. Alternatively, the first adhesive material comprises silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material comprises a releasable tackifier chemical compound. Alternatively, the first adhesive material comprises silicone gel adhesive, and wherein the second region comprises releasable L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine, releasable L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine quinone, releasable dehydrodihdyroxyphenylalanine, or releasable phosphorylated serine. Alternatively, the second adhesive material comprises a light switchable adhesive having the second tackiness in the first phase and the third tackiness in the second phase, and the light switchable adhesive is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving light.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present drapes, the second region is configured to receive an energy input to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase. In some such embodiments, the energy input comprises visible light, and the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving the visible light for more than a threshold time period. Alternatively, the energy input comprises infrared light, and the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving the infrared light for more than a threshold time period. Alternatively, the energy input comprises ultraviolet light, and the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving the ultraviolet light for more than a threshold time period. Alternatively, the energy input comprises pressure, and the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving more than a threshold amount of the pressure. Alternatively, the energy input comprises ultrasound, and the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving the ultrasound for more than a threshold time period. Alternatively, the energy input comprises heat, and the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving more than a threshold amount of the heat.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present drapes, the second region has a linear shape. Alternatively, the second region has a circular shape. Alternatively, the second region has an elliptical shape. Alternatively, the second region forms part of a grid pattern, the grid pattern enabling a selectable area corresponding to the third tackiness. Additionally, or alternatively, the second region is disposed substantially within a center of the drape. Alternatively, the second region is disposed along an edge of the drape.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present drapes, the second adhesive material is configured to release one or more colorimetric indicators that indicate a position of the second region when the second adhesive material is in the second phase. Additionally, or alternatively, the first region and the second region are repositionable when the second adhesive material is in the first phase. Additionally, or alternatively, the second region is not repositionable when the second adhesive material is in the second phase. Additionally, or alternatively, the drapes further comprise a removable protective film disposed on the second region.

Some embodiments of the present systems comprise the drape of the foregoing embodiments. The drape is configured to be attached to a tissue site. The systems comprise a wound therapy device configured to apply pressure to the tissue site. The systems further comprise a connector configured to couple the wound therapy device to the drape.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present systems, the systems further comprise a light source configured to emit light to the second region of the drape to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase. In some such embodiments, the light comprises visible light, infrared light, or ultraviolet light. Alternatively, the systems further comprise an ultrasound emitter configured to emit ultrasound to the second region of the drape to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase. Alternatively, the systems further comprise a heat source configured to emit heat to the second region of the drape to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase.

Some embodiments of the present methods comprise: attaching a drape to a tissue site. The drape comprises a first region including a first adhesive material and a second region including a second adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness and the second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. The methods further comprise applying an energy input to the second region to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present methods, the energy input is selected from the group consisting of: visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, ultrasound, pressure, and heat. Additionally, or alternatively, the methods further comprise, prior to applying the energy input, repositioning the drape with respect to the tissue site. Additionally, or alternatively, the methods further comprise removing the drape from the tissue site. Additionally, or alternatively, the methods further comprise, prior to applying the energy input, removing a protective covering from the second region.

Some embodiments of the present methods comprise: covering a first region of a drape with a first adhesive having a first tackiness. The methods comprise disposing an encapsulated second adhesive to a second region of the drape. The encapsulated second adhesive has a second tackiness that is greater than the first tackiness. The methods further comprise covering the second region of the drape and the encapsulated second adhesive with the first adhesive.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present methods, the methods further comprise encapsulating the encapsulated second adhesive in one or more shells. Additionally, or alternatively, the first adhesive comprises silicone gel adhesive, and the encapsulated second adhesive comprises acrylic adhesive. Additionally, or alternatively, the methods further comprise attaching a protective covering to an opposite side of the second region.

Some embodiments of the present methods comprise: receiving, at a second region of a drape, an energy input. The drape comprises a first region including a first adhesive material and the second region including a second adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness and the second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. The methods further comprise, responsive to receiving the energy input, transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present methods, transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase comprises breaking down one or more encapsulations containing an additional adhesive. Additionally, or alternatively, the methods further comprise changing a color of the second region when the second adhesive material is in the second phase.

Some embodiments of the present kits comprise: a drape comprising a first region including a first adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness. The drape further comprises at least a second region including a second adhesive material. The second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. The first adhesive material is configured to maintain the first tackiness when the second adhesive material is in the second phase. The kits further comprise a wound therapy device configured to be coupled to the drape.

In some of the foregoing embodiments of the present kits, the kits further comprise a connector configured to couple the drape to the wound therapy device. Additionally, or alternatively, the kits further comprise a package that includes the drape and the wound therapy device.

Some embodiments of the present drapes comprise: a first region including a first adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness. The present drapes further comprises a second region including one or more shells of an encapsulated second adhesive material. The one or more shells are configured to release the second adhesive material responsive to receipt of an energy input at the second region. The second adhesive material has a second tackiness that is greater than the first tackiness.

In some of the foregoing embodiments, the energy input comprises one of visible light, ultraviolet light, infrared light, ultrasound, pressure, and heat. Additionally, or alternatively, the first adhesive material comprises a silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material comprises an acrylic adhesive. Additionally, or alternatively, the first region and the second region are repositionable before the second adhesive material is released. Additionally, or alternatively, the second region is not repositionable when the second adhesive material is released.

As used herein, the term “switchable” will be used to refer to adhesives which can be changed at least from one phase (e.g., a high tack and/or peel strength phase, also referred to as a state) to another phase (e.g., a low tack and/or peel strength phase, such as a non-tacky phase). Recognizing that the expression “low tack and/or peel strength” is a relative term, it will be defined here as meaning a condition of a minimum reduction in tackiness which the adhesive reaches after switching from the high tack and/or peel strength phase. The reduction in tack or peel force may be as great as 99% or as little as 30%. Typically, the reduction in tack or peel force is between 70% and 90%.

As used herein, the term “peel strength” will be used to refer to a strength of adhesives measured by a 180 degree peel test on stainless steel. Recognizing that a bond strength of adhesive depends on the medium to which it adheres and that tissue composition can vary greatly, the measured peel strength is indicative of the adhesive's bond strength with tissue.

As used herein, the term “tackiness” will be used to refer to a strength of adhesives measured by a rolling ball test, as described in ASTM D3121-17 “Standard Test Method for Tack of Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives by Rolling Ball,” which is incorporated herein by reference.

As used herein, various terminology is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of implementations. For example, as used herein, an ordinal term (e.g., “first,” “second,” “third,” etc.) used to modify an element, such as a structure, a component, an operation, etc., does not by itself indicate any priority or order of the element with respect to another element, but rather merely distinguishes the element from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term). The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. Additionally, two items that are “coupled” may be unitary with each other. To illustrate, components may be coupled by virtue of physical proximity, being integral to a single structure, or being formed from the same piece of material. Coupling may also include mechanical, thermal, electrical, communicational (e.g., wired or wireless), or chemical coupling (such as a chemical bond) in some contexts.

The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. The term “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily wholly what is specified (and includes what is specified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel), as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. As used herein, the term “approximately” may be substituted with “within 10 percent of” what is specified. Additionally, the term “substantially” may be substituted with “within [a percentage] of” what is specified, where the percentage includes 0.1, 1, or 5 percent; or may be understood to mean with a design, manufacture, or measurement tolerance. The phrase “and/or” means and or. To illustrate, A, B, and/or C includes: A alone, B alone, C alone, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C. In other words, “and/or” operates as an inclusive or. Similarly, the phrase “A, B, C, or a combination thereof” or “A, B, C, or any combination thereof” includes: A alone, B alone, C alone, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), and “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”). As a result, an apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, a method that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more steps possesses those one or more steps, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps.

Further, a device or system that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but it can also be configured in other ways than those specifically described. The feature or features of one embodiment may be applied to other embodiments, even though not described or illustrated, unless expressly prohibited by this disclosure or the nature of the embodiments.

Some details associated with the aspects of the present disclosure are described above, and others are described below. Other implementations, advantages, and features of the present disclosure will become apparent after review of the entire application, including the following sections: Brief Description of the Drawings, Detailed Description, and the Claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As used herein, the terms “tissue site” and “target tissue” as used herein can broadly refer to a wound (e.g., open or closed), a tissue disorder, and/or the like located on or within tissue, such as, for example, bone tissue, adipose tissue, muscle tissue, neural tissue, dermal tissue, vascular tissue, connective tissue, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and/or the like. The terms “tissue site” and “target tissue” as used herein can also refer to a surrounding tissue area(s) and/or areas of tissue that are not necessarily wounded or exhibit a disorder, but include tissue that would benefit from tissue generation and/or tissue that may be harvested and transplanted to another tissue location. The terms “tissue site” and “target tissue” may also include incisions, such as a surgical incision. In some implementations, “target tissue” may correspond or refer to a wound, and “tissue site” may correspond or refer to a tissue area(s) surrounding and including the target tissue. Additionally, the term “wound” as used herein can refer to a chronic, subacute, acute, traumatic, and/or dehisced incision, laceration, puncture, avulsion, and/or the like, a partial-thickness and/or full thickness burn, an ulcer (e.g., diabetic, pressure, venous, and/or the like), flap, and/or graft. A wound may include chronic, acute, traumatic, subacute, and dehisced wounds, partial-thickness burns, ulcers (such as diabetic, pressure, or venous insufficiency ulcers), flaps, grafts, and fistulas, for example.

The term “positive-pressure” (or “hyperbaric”) as used herein generally refers to a pressure greater than a local ambient pressure, such as the ambient pressure in a local environment external to a sealed therapeutic environment (e.g., an internal volume). In most cases, this positive-pressure will be greater than the atmospheric pressure at which the patient is located. Alternatively, the positive-pressure may be greater than a hydrostatic pressure associated with tissue at the tissue site. Unless otherwise indicated, values of pressure stated herein are gauge pressures. References to increases in positive-pressure typically refer to an increase in absolute pressure, and decreases in positive-pressure typically refer to a decrease in absolute pressure. Additionally, the process of increasing pressure may be described illustratively herein as “applying”, “delivering,” “distributing,” “generating”, or “providing” positive-pressure, for example.

The term “reduced-pressure” (and “negative-pressure” or “hypobaric”) as used herein generally refers to a pressure less than a local ambient pressure, such as the ambient pressure in a local environment external to a sealed therapeutic environment (e.g., an internal volume). In most cases, this reduced-pressure will be less than the atmospheric pressure at which the patient is located. Alternatively, the reduced-pressure may be less than a hydrostatic pressure associated with tissue at the tissue site. Unless otherwise indicated, values of pressure stated herein are gauge pressures. References to increases in reduced-pressure typically refer to a decrease in absolute pressure, and decreases in reduced-pressure typically refer to an increase in absolute pressure. Additionally, the process of reducing pressure may be described illustratively herein as “applying”, “delivering,” “distributing,” “generating”, or “providing” reduced-pressure, for example.

The term “fluid” may refer to liquid, gas, air, or a combination thereof. The term “fluid seal,” or “seal,” means a seal adequate to maintain a pressure differential (e.g., positive-pressure or reduced-pressure) at a desired site given the particular pressure source or subsystem involved. Similarly, it may be convenient to describe certain features in terms of fluid “inlet” or “outlet” in such a frame of reference. However, the fluid path may also be reversed in some applications, such as by substituting a reduced-pressure source (negative or hypobaric pressure source) for a positive-pressure source, and this descriptive convention should not be construed as a limiting convention.

FIG.1illustrates an example of a drape100having multiple regions with different tackiness. In some implementations, drape100may be used as part of a wound therapy system, as further described with reference toFIGS.5A and5B. Drape100includes a treatment region102, a first region103, a second region104, a third region106, and a fourth region108defined by one or more of first perimeter110, second perimeter112, third perimeter114, fourth perimeter116, fifth perimeter118, and sixth perimeter120. Treatment region102may be surrounded by first perimeter110. First region103is located between second perimeter112and third perimeter114, between fourth perimeter116and fifth perimeter118, and outside of sixth perimeter120. Second region104is located between first perimeter110and second perimeter112. Third region106is located between third perimeter114and fourth perimeter116. Fourth region108is located between fifth perimeter118and sixth perimeter120.

In some implementations, drape100is an island drape, such that treatment region102is located in a center of drape100. Treatment region102may not include adhesive and may be configured to cover a wound and/or define a treatment area. First region103may include a first adhesive material having a first tackiness. Second region104may include a second adhesive material having a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. For example, the first phase may be associated with a low tackiness state, and the second phase may be associated with a high tackiness state. The first adhesive material may be configured to maintain the first tackiness when the second adhesive material is in the second phase, such that first region103has a different tackiness than second region104when the second adhesive material is in the second phase.

In some implementations, the first tackiness is the same as the second tackiness. For example, the second adhesive, when in the first phase, has the same tackiness as the first adhesive material. To further illustrate, the second adhesive material may include the first adhesive material as well as at least one component (e.g., an additional component) that is not included in the first adhesive material, such as encapsulated adhesive, as a non-limiting example. In other implementations, the first tackiness is different from the second tackiness.

In some implementations, the second adhesive material includes the first adhesive material (having the lower tackiness) in addition to an additional component that contributes to the higher tackiness of the second adhesive material. As one example, the first adhesive material includes a silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material includes a releasable acrylic adhesive. In such examples, the releasable acrylic adhesive may be disposed within silicone gel adhesive. For example, the releasable acrylic adhesive may be encapsulated in one or more shells when the second adhesive material is in the first phase, and the releasable acrylic adhesive is released when the second adhesive material is in the second phase.

As another example, the first adhesive material may include silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material may include releasable rosin. The releasable rosin may be similarly encapsulated in one or more shells disposed in silicone gel adhesive included in the second adhesive material. As another example, the first adhesive material may include silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material may include a releasable tackifier chemical compound. The tackifier chemical compound may be a chemical compound, such as a resin, a rosin, or a terpene, that increases the tackiness of the second adhesive material. The releasable tackifier chemical compound may be similarly encapsulated in one or more shells disposed in silicone gel adhesive included in the second adhesive material.

As yet another example, the first adhesive material may include silicone gel adhesive, and the second region may include releasable L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine, releasable L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine quinone, releasable dehydrodihdyroxyphenylalanine, or releasable phosphorylated senile. The releasable chemicals may be similarly encapsulated in one or more shells disposed in silicone gel adhesive included in the second adhesive material. In other implementations, other adhesive materials may be used for the first adhesive material and/or the second adhesive material.

In some implementations, the second adhesive material comprises a light switchable adhesive having the second tackiness in the first phase and the third tackiness in the second phase. The light switchable adhesive may be configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving light. For example, the first adhesive material may include silicone gel adhesive, and the second adhesive material may include a light switchable adhesive that is deactivated in the first phase and activated in the second phase (e.g., to increase the tackiness from the second tackiness to the third tackiness).

Drape100may be repositionable with respect to a tissue site. For example, first region103and second region104are repositionable when the second adhesive material is in the first phase. To further illustrate, the first tackiness and the second tackiness (which may be the same) may be sufficiently low enough such that drape100can be removed and repositioned at the tissue site without causing trauma to the tissue site or surrounding tissue. However, the second region is not repositionable when the second adhesive material is in the second phase. For example, the third tackiness may correspond to sufficient bond/peel strength that second region104is not able to be repositioned. Accordingly, the second adhesive material should be transitioned from the first phase to the second phase, as further described herein, once drape100has been properly positioned.

Third region106and/or fourth region108may be similar to second region104. For example, third region106may include a third adhesive material that has a fourth tackiness when in a first phase and a fifth tackiness when in a second phase, and fourth region108may include a fourth adhesive material that has a sixth tackiness when in a first phase and a seventh tackiness when in a second phase. In some implementations, the third adhesive material and the fourth adhesive material may be the same as the second adhesive material, such that the fourth tackiness and the sixth tackiness are the same as the second tackiness and the fifth tackiness and the seventh tackiness are the same as the third tackiness. In other implementations, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may be different than the second adhesive material. For example, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may include more (or less) of the additional encapsulated adhesive than the second adhesive material, or the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may include different adhesive material than the second adhesive material. As an example, the third adhesive material may include more encapsulated acrylic adhesive than the second adhesive material, and the fourth adhesive material may include more encapsulated acrylic adhesive than the third adhesive material. As another example, the third adhesive material may include less encapsulated acrylic adhesive than the second adhesive material, and the fourth adhesive material may include less encapsulated acrylic adhesive than the third adhesive material. Accordingly, the third tackiness, the fifth tackiness, and the seventh tackiness may be different, at least in some implementations.

The regions may have the same or different shapes. For example, in the example ofFIG.1, second region104has an elliptical shape. Third region106also has an elliptical shape, and fourth region108has a rectangular shape. In other implementations, second region104(or third region106and/or fourth region108) has a linear shape, a circular shape, a polygonal shape, or a different shape. Additionally, or alternatively, first region103, second region104, third region106, and fourth region108may be located in various positions of drape100. In some implementations, second region104, third region106, or fourth region108is disposed substantially within a center of drape100. In other implementations, second region104, third region106, and/or fourth region108is disposed along an edge of drape100. For example, in the example ofFIG.1, fourth region108is disposed along the edges of drape100. In some other implementations, second region104, third region106, and/or fourth region108forms part of a grid pattern. The grid pattern enables a selectable area corresponding to the third tackiness (or the fifth tackiness and/or the seventh tackiness). A drape with regions in a grid pattern is further described herein with reference toFIG.3.

Some of the reasons may transition phases through the receipt of energy input. For example, second region104may be configured to receive an energy input to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase. Similarly, third region106may be configured to receive an energy input to transition the third adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase, and fourth region108may be configured to receive an energy input to transition the fourth adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase. Transitioning regions104-108from the respective first phase to the respective second phase increases the tackiness of the corresponding adhesive material.

The energy input may be applied in a variety of forms. In some implementations, the energy input includes pressure. In such implementations, the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving more than a threshold amount of the pressure. For example, in implementations in which the second adhesive material includes encapsulated acrylic adhesive that is encapsulated in one or more shells, application of pressure to second region104may cause the shells (e.g., capsules) to break open and release the acrylic adhesive, thereby transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase and increasing the tackiness from the second tackiness to the third tackiness. The pressure may be applied by a user pressing down on second region104with a thumb or finger, as a non-limiting example. In some such implementations, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may similarly be configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on application of pressure to third region106and/or fourth region108.

In some other implementations, the energy input includes ultraviolet light. In such implementations, the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving the ultraviolet light for more than a threshold time period. For example, in implementations in which the second adhesive material includes encapsulated acrylic adhesive that is encapsulated in one or more shells, application of ultraviolet (UV) light to second region104may cause the shells (e.g., capsules) to break open or to disintegrate and release the acrylic adhesive, thereby transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase and increasing the tackiness from the second tackiness to the third tackiness. The UV light may be applied by a UV light source (e.g., an energy source) that is configured to direct UV light to second region104for a threshold period of time. In some implementations, the UV light may correspond to a UV light configured to generate incoherent light in the UV spectrum, or a particular subspectrum of the UV spectrum. Alternatively, the UV light may correspond to a UV laser, such as a gas laser, a laser diode, a solid-state laser, an excimer laser, or a combination thereof, configured to generate coherent light (e.g., a laser beam) having electromagnetic radiation of UV wavelengths. In some such implementations, drape100may include a removable protective film disposed on second region104. For example, a UV protective film or cover may be disposed on second region104and may be removed by a user when the UV light is to be applied. The UV protective film or cover may prevent the shells from disintegrating too early and releasing the acrylic adhesive. In some such implementations, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may similarly be configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on application of UV light to third region106and/or fourth region108.

In some other implementations, the energy input includes infrared light. In such implementations, the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving the infrared light for more than a threshold time period. For example, in implementations in which the second adhesive material includes encapsulated acrylic adhesive that is encapsulated in one or more shells, application of infrared light to second region104may cause the shells (e.g., capsules) to break open or disintegrate and release the acrylic adhesive, thereby transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase and increasing the tackiness from the second tackiness to the third tackiness. The infrared light may be applied by an infrared light source (e.g., an energy source) that is configured to direct infrared light to second region104for a threshold period of time. In some such implementations, the infrared light source may include an infrared torch configured to generate incoherent light in the infrared spectrum, or a particular subspectrum of the infrared spectrum. Alternatively, the infrared light may correspond to an infrared laser, such as a gas laser, a laser diode, a solid-state laser, an excimer laser, or a combination thereof, configured to generate coherent light (e.g., a laser beam) having electromagnetic radiation of infrared wavelengths. In some such implementations, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may similarly be configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on application of infrared light to third region106and/or fourth region108.

In some implementations, the energy input includes ultrasound. In such implementations, the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving the ultrasound for more than a threshold time period. For example, in implementations in which the second adhesive material includes encapsulated acrylic adhesive that is encapsulated in one or more shells, application of ultrasound (e.g., ultrasound waves) to second region104may cause the shells (e.g., capsules) to break open or disintegrate and release the acrylic adhesive, thereby transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase and increasing the tackiness from the second tackiness to the third tackiness. The ultrasound waves may be applied by an ultrasound emitter (e.g., an energy source) that is configured to direct ultrasound waves to second region104for a threshold period of time. In some such implementations, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may similarly be configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on application of ultrasound to third region106and/or fourth region108.

In some implementations, the energy input includes heat. In such implementations, the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving more than a threshold amount of the heat. For example, in implementations in which the second adhesive material includes encapsulated acrylic adhesive that is encapsulated in one or more shells, application of heat to second region104may cause the shells (e.g., capsules) to break open or disintegrate and release the acrylic adhesive, thereby transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase and increasing the tackiness from the second tackiness to the third tackiness. The heat may be applied by a heat source (e.g., an energy source) that is configured to direct heat to second region104in a threshold amount. In some such implementations, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may similarly be configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on application of heat to third region106and/or fourth region108.

In some implementation, the energy input includes visible light. In such implementations, the second adhesive material is configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on receiving the visible light for more than a threshold time period. For example, the second adhesive material may be a light switchable adhesive with two phases. The first phase may be a low-tack state (e.g., associated with the second tackiness), and the second phase may be a high-tack state (e.g., associated with the third tackiness). Application of the visible light for a threshold time period to second region104may cause the light switchable adhesive (e.g., the second adhesive material) to transition from the first phase to the second phase and thereby increase the tackiness from the second tackiness to the third tackiness. In some implementations, the light switchable adhesive may have three phases, and the third phase may be associated with a low-tack state to enable easy removal of drape100. In some such implementations, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may similarly include a light switchable adhesive configured to transition from the first phase to the second phase based on application of visible light to third region106and/or fourth region108.

Although regions104-108include corresponding adhesive materials that change phases based on the energy input, the first adhesive material corresponding to first region103is configured to maintain the first tackiness while the other adhesive materials are in the second phase. Thus, a majority of drape100has the first tackiness (e.g., a low tackiness) even when the other adhesive materials are in the second phase, making removal of drape100easier and less likely to cause trauma to the skin surrounding the tissue site.

In some implementations, the second adhesive material is configured to release one or more colorimetric indicators that indicate a position of second region104when the second adhesive material is in the second phase. For example, in addition to a second adhesive (e.g., an acrylic adhesive, as a non-limiting example) being encapsulated in one or more shells (e.g., capsules), one or more colorimetric indicators, such as dyes or pigments, may also be encapsulated in the one or more shells. The one or more colorimetric indicators, when released from encapsulation, may change a color of second region104. For example, the dye may change a color of second region104to a particular color, such as red, blue, green, or yellow, to indicate that the high-tack phase is in effect. Thus, a user may be able to visually perceive that the second adhesive has transitioned from the first phase to the second phase. In some such implementations, the third adhesive material and/or the fourth adhesive material may similarly include colorimetric indicators configured to change a color of third region106or fourth region108.

In some implementations, a drape (e.g.,100) includes a first region (e.g.,103) including a first adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness. The drape further includes a second region (e.g.,104) including a second adhesive material. The second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. The first adhesive material is configured to maintain the first tackiness when the second adhesive is in the second phase.

In some implementations, a drape (e.g.,100) includes a first region (e.g.,103) including a first adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness. The drape further includes a second region (e.g.,104) including one or more shells of an encapsulated second adhesive material. The one or more shells are configured to release the second adhesive material responsive to receipt of an energy input at the second region. The second adhesive material has a second tackiness that is greater than the first tackiness.

Thus,FIG.1illustrates a drape (e.g., drape100) with different regions having different tackiness when corresponding adhesive materials are in the second phase. When the corresponding adhesive materials are in the first phase, an entirety of drape100has low enough tackiness to be repositionable about a tissue site. Thus, a user may be able to reposition drape100without causing trauma to their skin. Skin prep and wipes are not required prior to setting drape100. Additionally, because only portions of drape100(e.g., regions104-108) have higher tackiness when the corresponding adhesive materials are in the second state, drape100may be removable without causing trauma to the skin surrounding the tissue site and discomfort to the user. This may be especially helpful to patients with sensitive or friable skin. Additionally, the high tackiness of the particular regions is sufficient to prevent or mitigate leaks and to provide sufficient bond/peel strength to maintain the drape's attachment to the tissue site.

In some implementations, the tack values vary qualitatively from the first phase to the second phase. For example, from the first phase to the second phase, the tackiness may increase 5% to 500%, preferably 35% to 200%, based on the Polyken Probe Method. Additionally, the peel strength may vary qualitatively from the first phase to the second phase. For example, the peel strength in the first phase may be in the range of 0.15 to 5 Newtons (N)/centimeter (cm), preferably from 0.25 to 3 N/cm, based on the 180 degree steel peel method. In the second phase, the peel strength may be increased 5% to 500%, preferably 10% to 50% of the original value.

FIG.2illustrates an example of a drape200having different regions with different tackiness. Drape200includes a treatment region202, a treatment adhesive region204, a first region206, a second region208(e.g., a shaded region), a third region210(e.g., a shaded region), a fourth region212(e.g., a shaded region), and a fifth region214(e.g., a shaded region). Treatment region202may be located within the middle of drape200(e.g., drape200may be an island drape), treatment adhesive region204may surround treatment region202, first region206may correspond to a remainder of drape200that is not encompassed by treatment region202, treatment adhesive region204, second region208, third region210, fourth region212, and fifth region214.

Treatment region202may be configured to cover a wound and may not include adhesive material. Treatment adhesive region204may include an adhesive material to attach treatment adhesive region204to tissue. Treatment adhesive region204may have the same type of adhesive material as first region206or regions208-214. Although illustrated in the example ofFIG.2, treatment adhesive region204is optional and may not be included in some implementations. In such implementations, the area corresponding to treatment adhesive region204may be included in treatment region202or may be included in first region206.

First region206may include a first adhesive material having a first tackiness. Second region208may include a second adhesive material that has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. Third region210may include a third adhesive material that has a fourth tackiness in a first phase and a fifth tackiness in a second phase. The fifth tackiness is greater than the fourth tackiness. Fourth region212may include a fourth adhesive material that has a sixth tackiness in a first phase and a seventh tackiness in a second phase. The seventh tackiness is greater than the sixth tackiness. Fifth region214may include a fifth adhesive material that has an eighth tackiness in a first phase and a ninth tackiness in a second phase. The ninth tackiness is greater than the eighth tackiness. In some implementations, the second tackiness, the fourth tackiness, the sixth tackiness, and the eighth tackiness are the same as the first tackiness, such that an entirety of drape200has the same tackiness when the adhesive materials are in the first phase. In some implementations, the third tackiness, the fifth tackiness, the seventh tackiness, and the ninth tackiness are the same. In other implementations, one or more of the third tackiness, the fifth tackiness, the seventh tackiness, and the ninth tackiness are different.

FIG.2illustrates a smaller drape thanFIG.1. For smaller drapes, regions of high tackiness along the edges may be more helpful in preventing or mitigating leaks and maintaining the attachment to the tissue site. Thus, second region208is disposed along a first edge, third region210is disposed along a second edge, fourth region212is disposed along a third edge, and fifth region214is disposed along a fourth edge. In the example ofFIG.2, regions208-214have a polygon shape. In other implementations, regions208-214may have other shapes. Drape200ofFIG.2may be configured for use with a pressurized wound therapy system, as further described with reference toFIGS.5A and5B.

As described with reference toFIG.1, adhesive materials corresponding to regions208-214may be transitioned from the first phase to the second phase by receipt of an energy source at regions208-214. In some implementations, the energy source may be one of the group consisting of: visible light, ultraviolet light, infrared light, ultrasound, pressure, and heat. In other implementations, other types of energy may be applied to regions208-214to transition the corresponding adhesive materials from the first phase to the second phase.

FIG.3illustrates an example of a drape300having different regions with different tackiness. Drape300includes a first region302and illustrative regions304,306,308,310,312,314,316,318,320, and322. Regions304-322form a grid pattern within drape300. For example, regions302-316form a first row of the grid pattern, and regions304and318-322for a first column of the grid pattern. Although four rows and seven columns are illustrated, in other implementations, there may be more than four or fewer than four rows and/or more than seven or fewer than seven columns.

As described with reference toFIG.1, adhesive materials corresponding to regions304-322may be transitioned from the first phase to the second phase by receipt of an energy source at regions304-322. In some implementations, the energy source may be one of the group consisting of: visible light, ultraviolet light, infrared light, ultrasound, pressure, and heat. In other implementations, other types of energy may be applied to regions304-322to transition the corresponding adhesive materials from the first phase to the second phase.

Drape300includes a grid pattern to enable users to select which regions to transition to the higher tack second phase. For example, a user may apply energy to the regions where higher tackiness is desired, and may not apply energy to regions where higher tackiness is not desired. Accordingly, a user can define a wound/treatment area and/or define a higher adhesive area or areas selectively. Thus, drape300may be more versatile than drapes that include pre-set regions of high tackiness.

Although described as a drape300inFIG.3, drape300may include or correspond to a portion of a drape of another drape described herein. For example, the grid pattern of drape300may be used in one or more of regions104-108of drape100.

FIG.4illustrates examples of adhesive materials.FIG.4illustrates first adhesive material402and second adhesive material406, each in the first phase. First adhesive material402includes an encapsulated adhesive404. For example, encapsulated adhesive404may include an acrylic adhesive, as a non-limiting example. Second adhesive material406includes one or more encapsulated adhesives in one or more shells, such as illustrative shell408. For example, one or more shells may encapsulate acrylic adhesive, as a non-limiting example.

Additionally,FIG.4illustrates adhesive material410in the second phase. When in the second phase, adhesive material410includes a releasable adhesive412which increases that tackiness of adhesive material410. Additionally, adhesive material410includes released colorimetric indicators, such as illustrative colorimetric indicator414. The colorimetric indicators may include dyes, pigments, etc., that cause a region of a drape corresponding to adhesive material410to change color. For example, the color may be red, blue, green, yellow, or another color. By changing a color of a region of the drape, a user may understand that the corresponding adhesive material (e.g., adhesive material410) has transitioned to the second phase (e.g., is in the high tack state).

In some implementations, encapsulated adhesive404or one or more encapsulated adhesives (including shell408) may be encapsulated in a thicker shell. Such thicker shell may require longer exposure time to UV, infrared, or ultrasound before release of the encapsulated adhesive. For example, the thicker shell may have an exposure time of 30 seconds to 5 minutes, as non-limiting examples. The thicker shell may reduce or prevent accidental release of more tacky adhesives, which can attach to tissue with higher bond/peel strength. In some implementations, the thicker shell may also encapsulate one or more colorimetric indicators, such that the color of the region of high tack adhesive changes when the high tack adhesive is released. The color may be different than the implementation illustrated inFIG.4, due to the extended length of application of UV/infrared/ultrasound, selection of different colorimetric indicators, or both.

In some implementations, the shell is not thicker but instead breaks down slower. In still other implementations, the shell breaks down using a different type of input. For example, shells around low-tack adhesive may be broken down by ultrasound, while shells around high-tack adhesive may be broken down by ultraviolet light. The exposure time for the different shells could be the same or different.

FIG.5Ashows a perspective view of an illustrative system500(e.g., a therapy system) for providing wound therapy. System500may include a therapy device510, a tube514, a dressing516, and, optionally, an energy source512. System500is configured to provide therapy (e.g., oxygen therapy, positive-pressure therapy, negative-pressure therapy, or a combination thereof) at a tissue site520associated with a target area of a patient. For example, dressing516may be in fluid communication with tissue site520and may be in fluid communication with therapy device510via tube514. In some implementations, system500may include one or more components commercially available through and/or from KCI USA, Inc. of San Antonio, Tex., U.S.A., and/or its subsidiary and related companies (collectively, “KCI”). In some implementations, system500is a disposable and/or discreet therapy system. For example, the therapy system is sized to fit underneath clothing and/or to attach to clothing of a person. An illustrative, non-limiting example of commercially available discreet therapy systems include a “V.A.C. VIA”™ Therapy System available from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. (KCI) of San Antonio, Tex.

Therapy device510(e.g., a treatment apparatus) is configured to provide therapy to tissue site520via tube514and dressing516. For example, therapy device510may include a pressure source (e.g., a negative-pressure source, such as a pump, or a positive-pressure source, such as a pressurized oxygen container, an oxygen concentrator, or an oxygen collector) configured to be actuatable (and/or actuated) to apply pressure differential relative to ambient conditions to dressing516. As illustrative, non-limiting examples, positive-pressure applied to a tissue site may typically ranges between 5 millimeters mercury (mm Hg) (667 pascals (Pa)) and 30 mm Hg (4.00 kilo (k) Pa). Common therapeutic ranges are between 10 mm Hg (1.33 kPa) and 25 mm Hg (3.33 kPa). As illustrative, non-limiting examples, reduced-pressure applied to a tissue site may typically ranges between −5 millimeters mercury (mm Hg) (−667 pascals (Pa)) and −500 mm Hg (−66.7 kilo (k) Pa). Common therapeutic ranges are between −75 mm Hg (−9.9 kPa) and −300 mm Hg (−39.9 kPa).

In some implementations, the therapy device510includes a reduced-pressure source, such as a vacuum source (e.g., a pump and/or the like), configured to be actuatable (and/or actuated) to apply reduced-pressure (e.g., negative pressure) to dressing516. In some implementations, therapy device510may alternate between providing positive-pressure therapy and negative-pressure therapy to the dressing516, may provide positive-pressure therapy to a first portion of the dressing516and negative-pressure therapy to a second portion of the dressing516, may provide no positive or negative pressure, or a combination thereof. In some such implementations, the therapy device510can provide positive-pressure therapy and negative-pressure therapy to the dressing516at the same time (e.g., partially concurrently).

In some implementations, therapy device510includes a canister to receive fluid from tissue site520or to provide fluid to tissue site520. In some implementations, the canister is internal to and/or integrated with therapy device510. In other implementations, the canister is external to therapy device510.

Therapy device510may also include one or more other components, such as a sensor, a processing unit/controller (e.g., a processor), an alarm indicator, a memory, a database, software, a display device, a user interface, a regulator, and/or another component, that further facilitate positive-pressure therapy or negative-pressure therapy. Additionally, or alternatively, therapy device510may be configured to receive fluid, exudate, and or the like via dressing516and tube514. Therapy device510may include one or more connectors, such as a representative connector538. Connector530is configured to be coupled to tube514. Additionally, or alternatively, therapy device510may include one or more sensors, such a pressure sensor (e.g., a pressure transducer). The one or more sensors may be configured to enable therapy device510to monitor and/or sense a pressure associated with tube514and/or dressing516.

Tube514includes one or more lumens (e.g., one or more through conduits), such as a single lumen conduit or multiple single-lumen conduits. Tube514(e.g., a least one of the one or more lumens) is configured to enable fluid communication between therapy device510and dressing516. For example, fluid(s) and/or exudate can be communicated between therapy device510and dressing516, and/or one or more pressure differentials (e.g., positive-pressure, negative pressure, or both) can be applied by therapy device510to dressing516. As an illustrative, non-limiting illustration, tube514is configured to deliver at least pressurized oxygen from therapy device510to dressing516to establish positive-pressure. Communication of fluid(s) and application of a pressure differential can occur separately and/or concurrently.

In some implementations, tube514may include multiple lumens, such as a primary lumen (e.g., a negative-pressure/fluid lumen) for application of negative-pressure and/or communication of fluid, and one or more secondary lumens proximate to or around the primary lumen. The one or more secondary lumens (e.g., one or more ancillary/peripheral lumens) may be coupled to one or more sensors (of therapy device510), coupled to one or more valves, as an illustrative, non-limiting example. Although tube514is described as a single tube, in other implementations, system500may include multiple tubes, such as multiple distinct tubes coupled to therapy device510, dressing516, or both.

As used herein, a “tube” broadly refers to a tube, pipe, hose, conduit, or other structure with one or more lumens adapted to convey fluid, exudate, and/or the like, between two ends. In some implementations, a tube may be an elongated, cylindrical structure with some flexibility; however, a tube is not limited to such a structure. Accordingly, tube may be understood to include multiple geometries and rigidity. Tube514includes one or more lumens (e.g., one or more through conduits), such as a single lumen conduit or multiple single-lumen conduits. Tube514(e.g., a least one of the one or more lumens) is configured to enable fluid communication between therapy device510and dressing516. For example, fluid(s) and/or exudate can be communicated between therapy device510and dressing516, and/or one or more pressure differentials (e.g., positive-pressure, negative pressure, or both) can be applied by therapy device510to dressing516. As an illustrative, non-limiting illustration, tube514is configured to deliver at least pressurized oxygen from therapy device510to dressing516to establish positive-pressure. Communication of fluid(s) and application of a pressure differential can occur separately and/or concurrently.

Referring toFIG.5B, an illustrative example of a cross-section of tube514(in which tube514comprises a single lumen) along line A-A ofFIG.5Ais shown. Tube514may include a primary lumen521(e.g., a negative-pressure/fluid lumen). In other implementations, tube514may include one or more secondary lumens, such as a positive-pressure/fluid lumen, one or more sense lumens, etc., or a combination thereof. Although tube514has been described and/or shown as having a circular cross-sectional shape, in other implementations, tube514may have a cross-sectional shape other than a circle, such as an oval, triangle, quadrilateral, pentagon, star, or another shape, as illustrative, non-limiting examples.

Referring toFIG.5A, dressing516includes a connector530(also referred to as a dressing connection pad or a pad), a drape532, and a manifold534(also referred to as a distribution manifold or an insert). Drape532may be coupled to connector530. To illustrate, drape532may be coupled to connector530via an adhesive, a separate adhesive drape over at least a portion of connector530and at least a portion of drape532, or a combination thereof, as illustrative, non-limiting examples.

Drape532may be configured to couple dressing516at tissue site520and/or to provide a seal to create an enclosed space (e.g., an interior volume) corresponding to tissue site520. For example, drape532may be configured to provide a fluid seal between two components and/or two environments, such as between a sealed therapeutic environment and a local ambient environment. To illustrate, when coupled to tissue site520, drape532is configured to maintain a pressure differential (provided by a positive-pressure source or a negative-pressure source) at tissue site520. Drape532may include a drape aperture that extends through drape532to enable fluid communication between device and target tissue. Drape532may be configured to be coupled to tissue site520via an adhesive, such as a medically acceptable, pressure-sensitive adhesive that extends about a periphery, a portion, or an entirety of drape532. Additionally, or alternatively, drape532may be coupled to tissue site520via a double-sided drape tape, paste, hydrocolloid, hydrogel, and/or other sealing device or element, as illustrative, non-limiting examples.

In some implementations, drape532may include a first region550that includes a first adhesive material and a second region552that includes a second adhesive material. The first adhesive material may have a first tackiness (e.g., peel strength). The second adhesive material may have a second tackiness when in a first phase and a third tackiness when in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. In some implementations, the second tackiness is the same as the first tackiness. The second adhesive material may be transitioned from the first phase to the second phase by receipt of an energy input from energy source512, as further described herein.

Drape532may include an impermeable or semi-permeable, elastomeric material, as an illustrative, non-limiting example. In some implementations, drape532may be liquid/gas (e.g., moisture/vapor) impermeable or semi-permeable. Examples of elastomers may include, but are not limited to, natural rubbers, polyisoprene, styrene butadiene rubber, chloroprene rubber, polybutadiene, nitrile rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer, chlorosulfonated polyethylene, polysulfide rubber, polyurethane (PU), EVA film, co-polyester, and silicones. In some implementations, drape532may include the “V.A.C.® Drape” commercially available from KCI. Additional, specific non-limiting examples of materials of drape532may include a silicone drape, 3M Tegaderm® drape, and a polyurethane (PU) drape such as one available from Avery Dennison Corporation of Pasadena, Calif. An additional, specific non-limiting example of a material of the drape532may include a 30 micrometers (μm) matt polyurethane film such as the Inspire™ 2317 manufactured by Exopack™ Advanced Coatings of Matthews, N.C.

Manifold534is configured to be positioned on and/or near tissue site520, and may be secured at the tissue site520, such as secured by drape532. The term “manifold” as used herein generally refers to a substance or structure that may be provided to assist in applying a pressure differential (e.g., negative-pressure differential) to, delivering fluids to, or removing fluids and/or exudate from a tissue site and/or target tissue. The manifold typically includes a plurality of flow channels or pathways that distribute fluids provided to and removed from the tissue site. In an illustrative implementation, the flow channels or pathways are interconnected to improve distribution of fluids provided to or removed from the tissue site. Manifold534may be a biocompatible material that may be capable of being placed in contact with the tissue site and distributing positive and/or negative-pressure to the tissue site. Manifold534may include, without limitation, devices that have structural elements arranged to form flow channels, such as foam, cellular foam, open-cell foam, porous tissue collections, liquids, gels, and/or a foam that includes, or cures to include, flow channels, as illustrative, non-limiting examples. Additionally, or alternatively, manifold may include polyethylene, a polyolefin, a polyether, polyurethane, a co-polyester, a copolymer thereof, a combination thereof, or a blend thereof.

In some implementations, manifold534is porous and may be made from foam, gauze, felted mat, or other material suited to a particular biological application. In a particular implementation, manifold534may be a porous foam and may include a plurality of interconnected cells or pores that act as flow channels. The foam (e.g., foam material) may be either hydrophobic or hydrophilic. As an illustrative, non-limiting example, the porous foam may be a polyurethane, open-cell, reticulated foam such as GranuFoam® material manufactured by Kinetic Concepts, Incorporated of San Antonio, Tex.

In some implementations, manifold534is also used to distribute fluids such as medications, antibacterials, growth factors, and other solutions to the tissue site. Other layers may be included in or on manifold534, such as absorptive materials, wicking materials, hydrophobic materials, and hydrophilic materials. In an implementation in which the manifold534includes a hydrophilic material, manifold534may be configured to wick fluid away from tissue site520and to distribute negative pressure and/or positive-pressure to tissue site520. The wicking properties of manifold534may draw fluid away from the tissue site520by capillary flow or other wicking mechanisms. An illustrative, non-limiting example of a hydrophilic foam is a polyvinyl alcohol, open-cell foam such as V.A.C. WhiteFoam® dressing available from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. of San Antonio, Tex. Other hydrophilic foams may include those made from polyether and/or foams that have been treated or coated to provide hydrophilicity.

In some implementations, manifold534is constructed from bioresorbable materials that do not have to be removed from tissue site520following use of the system500. Suitable bioresorbable materials may include, without limitation, a polymeric blend of polylactic acid (PLA) and polyglycolic acid (PGA). The polymeric blend may also include without limitation polycarbonates, polyfumarates, and capralactones. Manifold534may further serve as a scaffold for new cell-growth, or a scaffold material may be used in conjunction with manifold534to promote cell-growth. A scaffold may be a substance or structure used to enhance or promote the growth of cells or formation of tissue, such as a three-dimensional porous structure that provides a template for cell growth. Illustrative examples of scaffold materials include calcium phosphate, collagen, PLA/PGA, coral hydroxy apatites, carbonates, or processed allograft materials. Although a manifold534is illustrated inFIG.5A, in other implementations, dressing516does not include manifold534. In such implementations, drape532of dressing516is coupled to connector530.

Connector530includes a body542(e.g., a housing) and a base544, and is configured to be coupled to tube514via an interface546(e.g., a port). Base544is configured to be coupled to dressing516. For example, base544may be coupled, such as via an adhesive, to drape532and/or manifold534. In some implementations, base544comprises a flange that is coupled to an end of body542and/or is integrally formed with body542. Connector530, such as body542, base544, interface546, or a combination thereof, may be made of rigid material and/or a semi-rigid material. In a non-limiting example, connector530may be made from a plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, cyclic olefin copolymer elastomer, thermoplastic elastomer, poly acrylic, silicone polymer, or polyether block amide copolymer. In some implementations, connector530is formed of a semi-rigid material that is configured to expand when under a force, such as positive-pressure greater than or equal to a particular amount of pressure. Additionally or alternatively, connector530may be formed of a semi-rigid material that is configured to collapse when under a force, such as reduced-pressure less than or equal to a threshold pressure.

Body542includes one or more channels or one or more conduits that extend from and/or are coupled to interface546. To illustrate, body542may include a primary channel configured to be coupled in fluid communication with a primary lumen (e.g.,521) of tube514. The primary channel may be coupled to a cavity (e.g., a tissue cavity partially defined by body542) having an aperture open towards manifold534(and/or towards tissue site520). For example, the primary channel may include a first opening associated with interface546and a second opening (distinct from the aperture of the cavity) associated with the cavity. Thus, the primary channel may define a through channel of body542to enable fluid communication between interface546and tissue site520.

Body542includes a channel (e.g., a through channel) having a first aperture open opposite dressing516and a second aperture open towards dressing516. For example, the first aperture is located on an outer surface side (e.g., an ambient environment surface) of connector530and the second aperture is located on an inner surface side (e.g., a tissue facing side) of connector530. The second aperture is configured to be coupled to one or more lumens of tube514, such as coupled via the cavity. Illustrative, non-limiting examples of commercially available connectors include a “V.A.C. T.R.A.C.® Pad,” or “Sensa T.R.A.C.® Pad” available from Kinetic Concepts, Inc. (KCI) of San Antonio, Tex.

Energy source512is configured to provide an energy input to transition the second adhesive material (corresponding to second region552of drape532) from the first phase to the second phase. Energy source512may include or correspond to ambient lighting, a visible light device (such as a lamp), an infrared torch, a UV torch, a visible light torch, a dual light torch, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, energy source512may include or correspond to an ultrasound emitter. Alternatively, energy source512may include or correspond to a heat source. Alternatively, energy source512may include or correspond to a user, such as a user's thumb or finger that applies pressure to second region552, or a device to apply pressure to second region552. In some implementations, energy source512is included in or integrated within therapy device510.

During operation of system500, dressing516is coupled to tissue site520over a wound. Additionally, dressing516is coupled to therapy device510via tube514. Drape532is coupled over tissue site520to create a seal. For example, while the second adhesive material (corresponding to second region552of drape532) is in the first phase, drape532may be attached to tissue site520. While the second adhesive material is in the first phase, drape532may be repositionable. For example, if drape532is incorrectly attached, drape532(or a portion thereof) may be removed from tissue site520and repositioned. After drape532is positioned as desired, an energy input may be applied by energy source512to second region552to cause the second adhesive material to transition from the first phase to the second phase. As a non-limiting example, application of the energy input may cause encapsulated acrylic adhesive to be released, thereby increasing the tackiness of the second adhesive material from the second tackiness (e.g., a low tack state) to the third tackiness (e.g., a high tack state).

Negative-pressure or positive-pressure can be applied to dressing516(e.g., an interior volume of dressing516) by a pump (e.g., a pressure source). A pressure differential, such as positive-pressure, can be generated and/or applied to dressing516(e.g., the interior volume of dressing516) by a pressure source associated with therapy device510. When positive-pressure is generated and/or applied to dressing516, fluid or medication from therapy device510, such as from the canister, may be transported to dressing516. Furthermore, in some implementations, reduced-pressure can be applied to dressing516(e.g., the interior volume of dressing516or a second interior volume of the dressing516) by a reduced-pressure source associated with therapy device510. When reduced-pressure is applied to dressing516(e.g., when vacuum pressure is generated, fluid, exudate, or other material within dressing516may be transported to the canister of therapy device510.

After operation, such as completion of therapy, system500may be disconnected and components thereof removed from tissue site520. For example, drape532may be removed from tissue site520. Because only a portion of drape532(e.g., second region552) has a high tackiness, removal of drape532may not cause trauma to the skin or pain to the user.

In some implementations, a system includes a drape (e.g.,530), a wound therapy device (e.g.,510) configured to apply pressure to a tissue site (e.g.,520), and a connector (e.g.,514) configured to couple the wound therapy device to the drape. In some such implementations, the system further includes a light source (e.g.,512) configured to emit light to the second region (e.g.,552) of the drape to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase. In some such implementations, the light includes visible light, infrared light, or ultraviolet light. Alternatively, the system may further include an ultrasound emitter (e.g.,512) configured to emit ultrasound to the second region of the drape to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase. Alternatively, the system may further include a heat source (e.g.,512) configured to emit heat to the second region of the drape to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase.

Thus, drape532can be adhered to a patient with all regions in a low tack state (e.g., having the first tackiness or the second tackiness) to be painlessly and easily repositioned. Once drape532is securely and correctly attached, the second adhesive (corresponding to second region552) can be transitioned from the first phase to the second phase to increase the tackiness to the third tackiness. Increasing the tackiness reduces or mitigates leaks and provides sufficient bond/peel strength to keep drape532attached to tissue site520. Additionally, because only a portion of drape532has the high tackiness (e.g., the third tackiness), once therapy is complete, drape532may be removed without causing trauma to the skin or pain to the user.

Referring toFIG.6, a block diagram of a manufacturing system, system600, for making a drape having multiple regions with different tackiness is shown. In the example illustrated inFIG.6, system600includes a control system610, a drape manufacturing system612, a second adhesive application system614, and a first adhesive application system616. Control system610is configured to control one or more of systems612-616, as further described herein.

Drape manufacturing system612may be configured to receive drape material and to manufacture a drape from the drape material. For example, drape manufacturing system may include a measuring system, a cutting system, one or more other systems, or a combination thereof, configured to measure and cut the drape material to from a drape, such as drape100,200,300, or530, as non-limiting examples. The drape may include a first region and at least a second region.

Second adhesive application system614may be configured to receive the drape and to dispose second adhesive to at least the second region of the drape. For example, second adhesive application system614may be configured to dispose encapsulated second adhesive (e.g., encapsulated within one or more shells) to the second region of the drape. In some implementations, the encapsulated second adhesive may include acrylic adhesive encapsulated in one or more shells that are responsive to an energy input, such as visible light, ultraviolet light, infrared light, ultrasound, pressure, or heat. In some other implementations, second adhesive application system614may be configured to coat the second region with a light switchable adhesive having at least two phases. In some implementations, second adhesive application system614may include an applicator, such as a die (e.g., a slot die), a roller, a patterned roller, a spray nozzle, etc., to apply the second adhesive. Additionally, or alternatively, second adhesive application system614may include an encapsulation system configured to encapsulate the second adhesive in one or more shells.

First adhesive application system616may be configured to receive the drape with the second adhesive disposed on at least the second region and to apply a first adhesive to the first region. In some implementations, first adhesive application system616may also be configured to apply the first adhesive to the second region and the second adhesive. For example, in implementations in which encapsulated acrylic adhesive is disposed on the second region, first adhesive application system616may be configured to apply silicone gel adhesive to the first region and to the second region, such that the encapsulated acrylic adhesive is within the silicone gel adhesive. The first adhesive may have a lower tackiness than the second adhesive. In some other implementations, first adhesive application system616is configured to apply the first adhesive to only the first region. For example, in implementations in which a light switchable adhesive is applied to the second region by second adhesive application system614, the first adhesive is only applied to the first region (or at least is not applied to the second region). In some implementations, first adhesive application system616may include an applicators, such as a die (e.g., a slot die), a roller, a patterned roller, a spray nozzle, etc., to apply the first adhesive.

Although illustrated as separate systems, systems612-616may be incorporated into a single system. For example, drape manufacturing system612, second adhesive application system614, and/or first adhesive application system616may be incorporated into a single system. Additionally, system600may include one or more other systems, such as a protective film/cover generation system (e.g., a cover film lamination system), a post-processing system, a packing system, a sterilization system, or a combination thereof.

Control system610includes one or more interfaces630, one or more controllers, such as representative controller632, and one or more input/output (I/O) devices638. Interfaces630may include a network interface and/or a device interface configured to be communicatively coupled to one or more other devices, such as drape manufacturing system612, second adhesive application system614, or first adhesive application system616. For example, interfaces630may include a transmitter, a receiver, or a combination thereof (e.g., a transceiver), and may enable wired communication, wireless communication, or a combination thereof. Although control system610is described as a single electronic device, in other implementations, system600includes multiple electronic devices. In such implementations, such as a distributed control system, the multiple electronic devices each control a sub-system of system600, such as drape manufacturing system612, second adhesive application system614, or first adhesive application system616.

The one or more controllers (e.g., controller632) includes one or more processors and one or more memories, such as representative processor634and memory636. The one or more controllers may include or correspond to a drape manufacturing controller, a second adhesive application controller, a first adhesive application controller, or a combination thereof. Drape manufacturing controller may be configured to control (or regulate) manufacture of the drape, such as controlling positioning of the drape material, measuring of the drape material, and/or cutting of the drape material. For example, processor634may be configured to generate and/or communicate first control signals650, such as position control signals, measuring control signals, cutting control signals, or a combination thereof, to drape manufacturing system612.

Second adhesive application controller may be configured to control (or regulate) application of the second adhesive to the drape, such as controlling positioning of the applicator, application of the second adhesive, etc. For example, processor634may be configured to generate and/or communicate second control signals652, such as position control signals, application control signals, or a combination thereof, to second adhesive application system614. First adhesive application controller may be configured to control (or regulated) application of the first adhesive to the drape, such as controlling positioning of the applicator, application of the first adhesive, etc. For example, processor634may be configured to generate and/or communicate third control signals654, such as position control signals, application control signals, or a combination thereof, to first adhesive application system616.

Memory636, such as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium or device, may include volatile memory devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM) devices), nonvolatile memory devices (e.g., read-only memory (ROM) devices, programmable read-only memory, and flash memory), or both. Memory636may be configured to store instructions640, one or more thresholds642, and one or more data sets644. Instructions640(e.g., control logic) may be configured to, when executed by processor634, cause processor634to perform the operations described herein. One or more thresholds642and one or more data sets644may be configured to cause processor634to generate control signals. For example, processor634may generate and communicate control signals in response to receiving data from systems612-616and comparing at least a portion of the data to one or more thresholds642.

In some implementations, processor634may include or correspond to a microcontroller/microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) device, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), another hardware device, a firmware device, or any combination thereof. Processor634may be configured to executed instructions640to perform one or more operations described with reference toFIG.6and/or one or more operations of the method ofFIG.9.

One or more I/O devices638may include a mouse, a keyboard, a display device, a camera, a microphone or voice command capture device, other I/O devices, or a combination thereof. In some implementations, processor634generates and sends control signals responsive to receiving one or more user inputs via one or more I/O devices638.

Control system610may include or correspond to an electronic device such as a communications device, a mobile phone, a cellular phone, a satellite phone, a computer, a tablet, a portable computer, a display device, a media player, or a desktop computer. Additionally, or alternatively, control system610may include a personal digital assistant (PDA), a monitor, a computer monitor, a television, any other device that includes a processor or that stores or retrieves data or computer instructions, or a combination thereof.

During operation of system600, drape manufacturing system612forms a drape from drape material. For example, drape manufacturing system612may measure the drape material and cut the drape material into a particular shape with particular measurements to form the drape. Second adhesive application system614applies the second adhesive to at least the second region of the drape. In some implementations, second adhesive application system614applies encapsulated acrylic adhesive to the second region. In other implementations, the second adhesive includes rosin, tackifier chemical compounds, L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine, L-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylalanine quinone, dehydrodihdyroxyphenylalanine, or phosphorylated serine, as non-limiting examples. In some other implementations, second adhesive application system614applies a light switchable adhesive to the second region. First adhesive application system616applies the first adhesive to the first region of the drape. In some implementations, first adhesive application system616also applies the first adhesive to the second region (such as when the second region includes encapsulated second adhesive). The operations performed by drape manufacturing system612, second adhesive application system614, and first adhesive application system616may be performed based on control signals from control system610, such as first control signals650, second control signals652, and third control signals654.

Thus, system600ofFIG.6produces a drape having multiple regions with different tackiness. The drape may be used, such as with a wound therapy device, as further described with reference toFIG.5A.

Referring toFIG.7, a kit700for wound therapy is illustrated. Kit700includes a wound therapy device710, a drape712, or both. Wound therapy device710may include or correspond to therapy device510, and drape712may include or correspond to drape100,200,300, or530.

In some implementations, drape712includes a first adhesive material714and a second adhesive material716. For example, a first region of drape712may include first adhesive material714, and a second region of drape712may include second adhesive material716. First adhesive material714may have a first tackiness. Second adhesive material716may have a second tackiness when in a first phase and a third tackiness when in a second phase. First adhesive material714may be configured to maintain the first tackiness when second adhesive material716is in the second phase. In some implementations, the first tackiness is the same as the second tackiness.

In some implementations, kit700further includes a connector718, one or more additional components720, or a combination thereof. Connector718may be configured to couple wound therapy device710to drape712. One or more other components720may include or correspond to gloves, antiseptic, medical adhesive, dressings, and/or other components.

In some implementations, kit700may include a package702. For example, package702may include a box, a bag, a container, or the like. Package702may include wound therapy device710and/or drape712. In some implementations, package702may further include connector718and/or one or more additional components720. Additionally, or alternatively, package702may include a packaging medium (e.g., packaging material), such as foam, paper, or the like. Thus,FIG.7describes kit700for wound therapy that uses a drape having multiple adhesive materials in multiple regions with different adhesive properties (e.g., tackiness).

FIG.8illustrates a method800of using a drape. Method800may be performed by a patient or care provider using drape100,200, or300and/or one or more components of system500. Method800includes attaching a drape to a tissue site, at810. The drape includes a first region including a first adhesive material and a second region including a second adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness and the second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. For example, first adhesive material corresponding to first region103has a first tackiness, and second adhesive material corresponding to second region104has a second tackiness when in a first phase and a third tackiness when in a second phase.

Method800further includes applying an energy input to the second region to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase, at812. For example, an energy source (such as energy source512) may apply an energy input to second region104to transition the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase.

In some implementations, the energy input is selected from the group consisting of: visible light, infrared light, ultraviolet light, ultrasound, pressure, and heat. Additionally, or alternatively, method800may include, prior to applying the energy input, repositioning the drape with respect to the tissue site. For example, before the second adhesive material is transitioned to the second phase, the drape may be repositionable without causing trauma to the wearer. Additionally, or alternatively, method800may include removing the drape from the tissue site. For example, because only a portion of the drape is attached with the higher level of tackiness (e.g., the third tackiness), the drape may be removed from the tissue site without causing trauma to the wearer. Additionally, or alternatively, method800may include, prior to applying the energy input, removing a protective covering from the second region. For example, a protective covering, such as a UV covering, may be disposed on the second region, and the protective covering may be removed before applying the energy input (e.g., applying ultraviolet light).

Thus, method800describes using a drape to attach to a tissue site. The drape may be repositionable prior to transitioning the second adhesive material into the second phase, enabling a wearer to adjust the drape without causing trauma to the skin of the wearer. Additionally, because only a portion (e.g., the second region) of the drape is attached with a higher tackiness, the drape may be removed without causing trauma to the skin of the wearer.

FIG.9illustrates a method900of manufacturing a drape. Method900may be performed at or by system600, or components thereof. Method900includes covering a first region of a drape with a first adhesive having a first tackiness, at910. For example, first adhesive application system616may apply a first adhesive to a first region of a drape.

Method900includes disposing an encapsulated second adhesive to a second region of the drape, at912. The encapsulated second adhesive has a second tackiness that is greater than the first tackiness. For example, second adhesive application system614may apply an encapsulated second adhesive (e.g., an acrylic adhesive, as a non-limiting example) to a second region of the drape.

Method900further includes covering the second region of the drape and the encapsulated second adhesive with the first adhesive, at914. For example, first adhesive application system616may apply the first adhesive to the second region, covering the encapsulated second adhesive with the first adhesive.

In some implementations, method900further includes encapsulating the encapsulated second adhesive in one or more shells. For example, an adhesive, such as an acrylic adhesive, may be encapsulated in one or more shells that are disposed along the second region. Additionally, or alternatively, the first adhesive includes silicone gel adhesive, and the encapsulated second adhesive includes acrylic adhesive. Additionally, or alternatively, method900may further include attaching a protective covering to an opposite side of the second region. For example, a protective covering, such as a UV film, may be attached to the opposite side of the second region from the second adhesive material.

Thus, method900describes a method of manufacturing a drape that is repositionable and does not cause trauma to the skin of a wearer when removed. For example, only a portion (e.g., the second region) of the drape has a high tackiness, thus, the drape may be removed without causing trauma to the skin of the wearer.

FIG.10illustrates a method1000of using a drape. Method1000may be performed at or by drape100,200,300, or530. Method1000includes receiving, at a second region of a drape, an energy input, at1010. The drape includes a first region including a first adhesive material and the second region including a second adhesive material. The first adhesive material has a first tackiness and the second adhesive material has a second tackiness in a first phase and a third tackiness in a second phase. The third tackiness is greater than the second tackiness. For example, an energy input may be received at second region104from an energy source (e.g., energy source512).

Method1000further includes, responsive to receiving the energy input, transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase, at1012. For example, responsive to receiving the energy input, the second adhesive material (corresponding to second region104) may transition from the first phase to the second phase.

In some implementations, transitioning the second adhesive material from the first phase to the second phase includes breaking down one or more encapsulations containing an additional adhesive. For example, the second adhesive may include one or more encapsulations of an additional adhesive, such as an acrylic adhesive, that may be broken down by application of the energy input. Additionally, or alternatively, method1000may further include changing a color of the second region when the second adhesive material is in the second phase. For example, one or more colorimetric indicators may be encapsulated with the additional adhesive and, upon breaking down of the encapsulation, cause the second region to change color.

Thus, method1000describes a method of using a drape. The drape may be used to attach to a tissue site. Because the drape is attached with low tackiness when the second adhesive material is in the first phase, the drape may be repositionable. Additionally, because only a portion (e.g., the second region) of the drape is attached with a higher tackiness, the drape may be removable without causing trauma to the skin of a wearer.

One or more of the methods800-1000ofFIGS.8-10may be implemented in a computer-readable storage device storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the operations of the corresponding method.

It is noted that one or more operations described with reference to one of the methods ofFIGS.8-10may be combined with one or more operations of another ofFIGS.8-10. For example, one or more operations of method800may be combined with one or more operations of method900. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more operations described above with reference toFIGS.1-7may be combined with one or more operations ofFIGS.8-10, or a combination ofFIGS.8-10.

The above specification and examples provide a complete description of the structure and use of illustrative examples. Although certain aspects have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual examples, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to aspects of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. As such, the various illustrative examples of the methods and systems are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and implementations other than the ones shown may include some or all of the features of the depicted examples. For example, elements may be omitted or combined as a unitary structure, connections may be substituted, or both. Further, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples having comparable or different properties and/or functions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, it will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one example or may relate to several examples. Accordingly, no single implementation described herein should be construed as limiting and implementations of the disclosure may be suitably combined without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

The previous description of the disclosed implementations is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed implementations. Various modifications to these implementations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope possible consistent with the principles and novel features as defined by the following claims. The claims are not intended to include, and should not be interpreted to include, means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations, unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase(s) “means for” or “step for,” respectively.