Patent Description:
Examples of previously known electrospinning apparatuses are derivable from <CIT>, <CIT> as well as <CIT>, which forms the basis for the two-part form of independent claims <NUM>, <NUM><NUM> and <NUM>.

According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a portable, hand-held electrospinning or electrospraying apparatus may be provided. The hand-held apparatus may be comprised of a durable portion and a consumable portion. The consumable portion of the hand-held apparatus, which may contain the solution to be output in electrospin or electrospray fashion, may be replaced in whole or in part to provide additional or alternative solution. A base station may also be provided, and can output high voltage and communication signals to the hand-held apparatus to enable the electrospin or electrospray operation by the hand-held apparatus.

Also, in one or more embodiments, a portable, hand-held device for electrospinning or electrospraying toward a deposit surface a predetermined solution formulated for the device is provided. The device can comprise: a durable portion; and a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion. The consumable portion can include: a hollow nozzle configured to output the solution from a nozzle tip thereof, the hollow nozzle having a hollow electrode that defines a first portion of a flow path of the solution to outside the device, and the nozzle tip defines a second portion of the flow path, and a housing configured to contain a predetermined maximum volume of the solution, and output the solution to the hollow electrode. The durable portion can include: a drive mechanism configured to cause solution from the housing to be output to the hollow electrode, and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the drive mechanism and application of a high voltage to the hollow electrode to create an electric field for application to the solution to electrospin or electrospray the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposit surface. Circuitry can be configured to provide the high voltage to the hollow electrode.

Embodiments also include a portable, hand-held device for electrospinning toward a deposit surface a predetermined solution formulated for the device. The device can comprise: a durable portion; and a consumable portion coupled to the durable portion. The consumable portion can include: a hollow nozzle configured to output the solution from a nozzle tip thereof, the hollow nozzle having a hollow electrode that defines a first portion of a flow path of the solution to outside the device, and the nozzle tip defines a second portion of the flow path, the hollow electrode being configured to output received high voltage supplied via a first conduction path, another electrode configured to output a received high voltage supplied via a second conduction path different from the first conduction path, and a housing configured to contain a predetermined maximum volume of the solution, and output the solution to the hollow electrode. The durable portion can include a drive mechanism configured to cause solution from the housing to be output to the hollow electrode, and a user control interface configured to receive manual input from a user to control the drive mechanism and application of the high voltage to the hollow electrode and the high voltage to the another electrode to create an electric field for application to the solution to electrospin the solution from the hollow nozzle toward the deposit surface. Circuitry can be configured to provide the high voltage to the hollow electrode and the another electrode.

According to one or more embodiments, an electrospinning or electrospraying system can comprise: means for providing high voltage; means for generating an electric field and applying the electric field to solution based on the high voltage; means for outputting the solution to receive application of the electric field; means for outputting the solution as electrospun or electrosprayed solution; and means for controlling the means for generating the electric field and the means for outputting the solution as the electrospun or electrosprayed solution.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, are illustrative of one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, and, together with the description, explain various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Further, the accompanying drawings have not necessarily been drawn to scale, and any values or dimensions in the accompanying drawings are for illustration purposes only and may or may not represent actual or preferred values or dimensions. Where applicable, some or all select features may not be illustrated to assist in the description and understanding of underlying features.

The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various embodiments of the described subject matter and is not necessarily intended to represent the only embodiment(s). In certain instances, the description includes specific details for the purpose of providing an understanding of the described subject matter. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, structures and components may be shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the described subject matter. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or the like parts.

Any reference in the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, characteristic, operation, or function described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, any appearance of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in the specification is not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, the particular features, structures, characteristics, operations, or functions may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, and it is intended that embodiments of the described subject matter can and do cover modifications and variations of the described embodiments.

It must also be noted that, as used in the specification, appended claims and abstract, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. That is, unless clearly specified otherwise, as used herein the words "a" and "an" and the like carry the meaning of "one or more. " Additionally, it is to be understood that terms such as "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "front," "rear," "side," "height," "length," "width," "upper," "lower," "interior," "exterior," "inner," "outer," and the like that may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not necessarily limit embodiments of the described subject matter to any particular orientation or configuration. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," "third," etc. merely identify one of a number of portions, components, points of reference, operations and/or functions as described herein, and likewise do not necessarily limit embodiments of the described subject matter to any particular configuration or orientation.

Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are directed generally to electrospinning apparatuses. More particularly, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are directed to portable, hand-held electrospinning apparatuses. Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may also involve, or may be directed to, portable, hand-held electrospraying apparatuses. In that embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can involve portable, hand-held electrospinning or electrospraying apparatuses, such embodiments may be used in a clinical, salon, or at-home setting.

Generally speaking, electrospinning, which may be referred to as electric-field spinning, involves generating an electric field (EF) in and around a solution, for instance, a polymer solution, to draw out the solution to create relatively a fine fiber. The high voltage must be sufficiently high to generate an electric field sufficient to produce a Taylor cone. A plurality of such fibers may form a mesh or web on a surface, such as skin, for instance.

The fiber diameter may be as small as a nanometer, for instance. That is, when the deposit of fibers is formed with the electrostatic spraying method not forming part of the invention, the thickness of the fibers expressed as a diameter of a corresponding circle can be preferably <NUM> or more, and more preferably <NUM> or more. In addition, the thickness can be preferably <NUM>,<NUM> or less, and more preferably <NUM>,<NUM> or less. The thickness of the fibers can be measured by observing the fibers magnified <NUM>,<NUM> times using a scanning electron microscopy (SEM), for example, removing defects (mass of fibers, intersection of fibers, and droplets) from the two-dimensional images of the fibers, selecting any ten fibers, drawing a line orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of each of the fibers, and reading the diameter of the fiber directly.

Preferable, in one or more embodiments, the fiber is continuous fiber. The fiber can be a continuous fiber having an infinite length in the formation; it is preferable that the fiber has a length at least <NUM> times longer than its thickness. In this specification, a fiber having a length over <NUM> times than its thickness is defined as a "continuous fiber. " It is preferable that a coating formed with the electrostatic spraying method not forming part of the invention is a porous discontinuous coating including the deposit of continuous fibers.

Alternatively, one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may involve electrospraying, which, generally, may involve generating an electric field (EF) relative to a solution, for instance, a polymer solution, to output droplets of the solution.

The flow rate of the output solution (F) may be about <NUM>/min, preferably about <NUM>/min, more preferably about <NUM> to about <NUM>/min, even more preferable about <NUM>. <NUM> to about <NUM>/min, and most preferably about <NUM> to about <NUM>/min. Further, the flow rate may be caused or set based on current and voltage supplied to create the electric field, and desired fiber or droplet properties to be output. The flow rate may also be dependent upon characteristics of the solution, such as molecular weight, type, conductivity; environmental aspects, such as ambient temperature and/or ambient humidity; and apparatus configuration, such as the configuration of the nozzle.

The voltage supplied to create the electric field (V) is preferably from about 8kV to about 30kV, more preferably from about 9kV to about 25kV, and even more preferably from about 10kV to about 20kV.

The relational expression of the voltage (V) and the flow rate (F) may be preferably (F)=<NUM>*(V)+<NUM>, more preferable (F)=<NUM>*(V)+<NUM>, and even more preferable (F)=<NUM>*(V)+<NUM>. Set forth below are non-limiting examples of flow rate according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. <MAT><MAT><MAT>.

The solution can have a viscosity of preferably about <NUM> mPa • s to about <NUM>,<NUM> mPa • s, more preferably about <NUM> mPa • s to about <NUM> mPa • s, most preferably about <NUM> mPa • s to about <NUM> mPa • s. The viscosity can be measured according to one or more viscometer methodologies or types, such as a spindle-type (B-type) viscometer or a cone-plate-type (E-type) viscometer. For example, the spindle-type viscosity measurement can be performed using a type B viscometer (e.g., TVB-<NUM> by TOKI SANGYO Co. ) under the following characteristics/conditions: spindle No. M2 (<NUM>); rotational speed <NUM> rpm; and temperature <NUM>° C. Additionally or alternatively, the cone-plate-type viscosity measurement can be performed using a type E viscometer (e.g., VISCON EMD by TOKYO KEIKI INC. ) under the following characteristics/conditions: cone-plate rotor no. <NUM>; rotational speed selected according to the specification of the viscometer according to the viscosity level: speed of <NUM> rpm : more than 1280mPa • s, <NUM> rpm : more than <NUM> and less than 1280mPa • s, and <NUM> rpm : less than 128mPa • s; and temperature <NUM>° C.

As noted above, the solution may be a polymer solution, in one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. For example, the polymer solution may preferably be a water insoluble polymer having a coating formation ability, for instance, including completely saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be insolubilized after the formation of a coating; partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be cross-linked after the formation of a coating when used in combination with a cross-linking agent; oxazoline modified silicone such as a poly(N-propanoylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane/y-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymer; polyvinylacetal diethylamino acetate; zein (main component of corn proteins); polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); an acrylic resin such as a polyacrylonitrile resin or a polymethacrylic acid resin; a polystyrene resin; a polyvinyl butyral resin; a polyethylene terephthalate resin; a polybutylene terephthalate resin; a polyurethane resin; a polyamide resin; a polyimide resin; and a polyamideimide resin. More preferably the polymer solution can be or comprise polyvinyl butyral resin. The term "water-insoluble polymer" as used herein can refer to a polymer having a property such that when <NUM> of the polymer is weighed out and immersed in <NUM> of ion-exchanged water in an environment at a pressure of <NUM> atmosphere and a temperature of <NUM>° C for <NUM> hours, more than <NUM> of the immersed polymer does not dissolve in the water. Optionally, the polymer solution can preferably lack suspended solids (e.g., powder). That is, the polymer solution may be free or substantially free of suspended solids (e.g., powder).

Additionally or alternatively, in one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the solution may be a liquid agent comprising component (a), component (b), and component (c) as follows: component (a) may be one or more volatile substances selected from the group consisting of alcohols and ketones; component (b) may be water; and component (c) may be one or more polymers having a coating formation ability.

Preferable examples of alcohols that may serve as the volatile substance to be used as the component (a) include chain aliphatic monohydric alcohols, cyclic aliphatic monohydric alcohols, and aromatic monohydric alcohols. Specific examples thereof include ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, phenylethyl alcohol, propanol, and pentanol. One or more alcohols selected from these alcohols can be used. Examples of ketones serving as the volatile substance to be used as the component (a) can include acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and methyl isobutyl ketone. These ketones can be used alone or in combination of two or more. The volatile substance to be used as the component (a) can be more preferably at least one member selected from ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and butyl alcohol, even more preferably at least one member selected from ethanol and butyl alcohol, and even more preferably ethanol. Optionally, the solution can contain greater than <NUM>% alcohol.

Generally speaking, component (a) can be volatile and disperse or dissolve component (c). The term "disperse or dissolve" as used herein can refer to a state in which a substance is in a dispersed state at <NUM>° C and the dispersion is uniform when visually observed, and preferably transparent or translucent when visually observed.

Component (c) can be preferably hydrophobicity (water-insoluble). For example, in the case of the polymer having a coating formation ability, a polymer can be used that is appropriate according to the properties of the volatile substance to be used as the component (a). Specifically, polymers having a coating formation ability may be roughly classified into water-soluble polymers and water-insoluble polymers. The term "water-soluble polymer" as used herein can refer to a polymer having a property such that when <NUM> of the polymer is weighed out and immersed in <NUM> of ion-exchanged water in an environment at a pressure of <NUM> atmosphere and a temperature of <NUM>° C for <NUM> hours, <NUM> or more of the immersed polymer dissolves in the water. On the other hand, as noted above, the term "water-insoluble polymer" as used herein can refer to a polymer having a property such that when <NUM> of the polymer is weighed out and immersed in <NUM> of ion-exchanged water in an environment at a pressure of <NUM> atmosphere and a temperature of <NUM>° C for <NUM> hours, more than <NUM> of the immersed polymer does not dissolve in the water.

Examples of water-soluble polymers having a coating formation ability include naturally-occurring macromolecules such as pullulan, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, poly-γ-glutamic acid, modified corn starch, β-glucan, glucooligosaccharide, mucopolysaccharide such as heparin and keratosulfate, cellulose, pectin, xylan, lignin, glucomannan, galacturonic acid, psyllium seed gum, tamarind seed gum, gum arabic, gum traganth, water-soluble soybean polysaccharide, alginic acid, carrageenan, laminaran, agar (agarose), fucoidan, methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose; and synthetic macromolecules such as partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol (when not used in combination with a cross-linking agent), low saponified polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), polyethylene oxide, and sodium polyacrylate. These water-soluble polymers can be used alone or in combination of two or more. It is preferable to use pullulan and the synthetic macromolecules such as partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, low saponified polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl pyrrolidone, and polyethylene oxide, of these water-soluble polymers, from the viewpoint of easily manufacturing the coating. When polyethylene oxide is used as the water-soluble polymer, its number average molecular weight can be preferably <NUM>,<NUM> or more and <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> or less, and more preferably <NUM>,<NUM> or more and <NUM>,<NUM>,<NUM> or less.

On the other hand, examples of the water-insoluble polymers having a coating formation ability can include completely saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be insolubilized after the formation of a coating; partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be cross-linked after the formation of a coating when used in combination with a cross-linking agent; oxazoline modified silicone such as a poly(N-propanoylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane/y-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymer; polyvinylacetal diethylamino acetate; zein (main component of corn proteins); polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); an acrylic resin such as a polyacrylonitrile resin or a polymethacrylic acid resin; a polystyrene resin; a polyvinyl butyral resin; a polyethylene terephthalate resin; a polybutylene terephthalate resin; a polyurethane resin; a polyamide resin; a polyimide resin; and a polyamideimide resin. These water-insoluble polymers can be used alone or in combination of two or more. It is preferable to use completely saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be insolubilized after the formation of a coating, partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be cross-linked after the formation of the coating when used in combination with a cross-linking agent, a polyvinyl butyral resin, oxazoline modified silicone such as a poly(N-propanoylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane/y-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymer, water-soluble polyester, zein, and the like, of these water-insoluble polymers.

The content of the component (a) in the composition can be preferably <NUM> mass% or more, more preferably <NUM> mass% or more, and even more preferably <NUM> mass% or more. In addition, the content of the component (a) in the composition can be preferably <NUM> mass% or less, more preferably <NUM> mass% or less, and even more preferably <NUM> mass% or less. The content of the component (a) in the composition can be preferably <NUM> mass% or more and <NUM> mass% or less, more preferably <NUM> mass% or more and <NUM> mass% or less, and even more preferably <NUM> mass% or more and <NUM> mass% or less. When the component (a) is blended into the composition in this proportion, the composition can sufficiently volatilize, for instance, when the electrostatic spraying method not forming part of the invention is performed.

On the other hand, the content of the component (c) in the composition can be preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> weight%, more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> weight%, and even more preferably from <NUM> to <NUM> weight%. When the component (c) is blended into the composition in this proportion, a desired coating can be successfully formed.

The component (b) can be preferably contained from the viewpoint of conductivity of the liquid agent, and the content can be preferably <NUM>% or less, more preferably <NUM>% or less with respect to the component (a), from the viewpoint of spinnability, preferably the content can be <NUM>% or more.

For example, the composition can be comprised of a volatile solvent selected from alcohol and ketone, polymer with fiber forming ability, and water, preferably alcohol, water insoluble polymer, and water, more preferably ethanol, polymer with fiber forming ability selected from polyvinyl butyral, polyurethane, and partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, and water. The water insoluble polymer with fiber forming ability can be comprised of the selection of one or more completely saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be insolubilized after the fiber formation; partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be cross-linked after the fiber formation when used in combination with a cross-linking agent; oxazoline modified silicone such as a poly(N-propanoylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane/y-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymer; polyvinylacetal diethylamino acetate; zein (main component of corn proteins); polyester; polylactic acid (PLA); an acrylic resin such as a polyacrylonitrile resin or a polymethacrylic acid resin; a polystyrene resin; a polyvinyl butyral resin; a polyurethane resin; a polyethylene terephthalate resin; a polybutylene terephthalate resin; a polyurethane resin; a polyamide resin; a polyimide resin; and a polyamideimide resin, and the like. Optionally, the solution can contain greater than <NUM>% alcohol.

The water insoluble polymer with fiber forming ability can be preferably comprised of one or more partially saponified polyvinyl alcohol, which can be cross-linked after the fiber forming when used in combination with a cross-linking agent, a polyvinyl butyral resin, a polyurethane resin; oxazoline modified silicone such as a poly(N-propanoylethyleneimine)-grafted dimethylsiloxane/y-aminopropylmethylsiloxane copolymer, water-soluble polyester, zein, and the like.

One or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can involve application of a cosmetic, such as a base/foundation, a concealer, a moisturizer, and coloring. Of course, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter are not limited to application of cosmetics. For example, one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can involve application of deodorants, scents, sun protection, creams, topical drug delivery, anti-microbial barriers and coatings, hydrophobic/phallic surface treatments, anti-fouling coatings, tissue repair, etc..

Turning to the figures, <FIG> shows a system <NUM> according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. System <NUM> can be comprised of a base station <NUM> and a handset <NUM>. Optionally, the base station <NUM> and the handset <NUM> may be connected to each other via a transmission medium <NUM>, which may provide power from the base station <NUM> to the handset <NUM> and communications between the base station <NUM> and the handset <NUM>.

The transmission medium <NUM> may be a plurality of wired transmission lines, for instance, separately insulated inside a single transmission cord or separate transmission cords, where one of the wired transmission lines can transmit relatively high voltage from the base station <NUM> to the handset <NUM> and another transmission line (or lines) can provide relatively low voltage, communication signals, and grounding for the handset <NUM>. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the low voltage transmission can be implemented via a low voltage cable bundle for power and communications to the handset <NUM> (e.g., for a motor and/or controller of the handset <NUM>); a ground cable may be integrated into the low voltage cable bundle or, alternatively, the ground cable may be a separate cable. Alternatively, some or all of the signals can be transmitted wirelessly between the base station <NUM> and the handset <NUM>.

Generally, for electrospinning or electrospraying, the surface on which the fibers or droplets, respectively, are to be deposited on should or must be at or near ground potential. As such, the deposit surface, such as skin of a user, should be grounded during the electrospinning or electrospraying process. In terms of grounding a user, this may be accomplished by grounding the user to the base station <NUM>, the handset <NUM>, or some other structure. For example, the user may be grounded via a grounding strap <NUM> attached to the user and a grounding line <NUM> connected to the base station <NUM>, such as shown in <FIG>, via a grounding strap (not expressly shown) attached to the user and a grounding line <NUM> connected to the handset <NUM>, via a rod or a plate on a grip of the handset <NUM> and optionally a grounding strap attached to the user, or via a grounding route separate from the base station <NUM> and the handset <NUM>, such as a grounding route integrated into a chair, seat, table, metal plate, or other structure. Also, in the case of someone other than the user (e.g., an esthetician) using the handset <NUM> to apply the electrospun or electrosprayed solution to the user, the other person may also be grounded, for example, via the handset <NUM> or a separate grounding route, such as described above.

The base station <NUM> can include a control panel <NUM> and circuitry, which may include a controller or controllers <NUM> and/or a power source <NUM>. Optionally, the circuitry can include computer-readable memory (not expressly shown) configured to store settings and/or programming code executable by the controller <NUM>, to control the power source <NUM>, the control panel <NUM>, and the handset <NUM>. In one or more embodiments, the base station <NUM> may include a handset receptacle <NUM> configured to receive and physically hold or stow the handset <NUM>. Optionally, the base station <NUM> may include a timer settable and viewable by the user, for instance. In one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the base station <NUM> may have relatively less functionality than described above. For example, the base station <NUM> may simply have the handset receptacle <NUM> and therefore act only as a holder or receptacle for the handset <NUM>.

The control panel <NUM> may be configured to receive control inputs to control the handset <NUM> and the base station <NUM> by way of the controller <NUM>, for instance. For example, the control panel <NUM> may have a control input to control high voltage to the handset <NUM>, a control input to control motor direction of a motor (e.g., stepper motor) of the handset <NUM>, and/or a control input to control flow rate of the handset <NUM> (e.g., speed of the motor of handset <NUM>). The control panel <NUM> may also have a power on/off control input to control an on/off state of the base station <NUM> and, optionally, whether some or all of the voltage and communication signals are supplied to the handset <NUM>. The user input interfaces can be knobs, switches, buttons, a touch panel or screen, or a combination some or all of the foregoing. Further, such user input interfaces may identify relatively simple predetermined settings for various operational characteristics controllable by the user via the control panel <NUM>.

Optionally, control panel <NUM> may include a display (not expressly shown), such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or Light Emitting Diode (LED) display, which may be a touch screen or panel, as noted above. The display may output information corresponding to operating characteristics of the handset <NUM>, such as flow rate, an amount of high voltage received by the handset <NUM> or otherwise applied to the solution to perform electrospinning or electrospraying, a status of the handset <NUM>, a direction of the motor of the handset, and/or whether appropriate grounding of the user is provided. Additionally or alternatively, the display may output information corresponding to operating characteristics of the base station <NUM>, such as an amount of high voltage supplied to the handset <NUM>, the on/off state, whether the handset <NUM> is detected by the base station <NUM> to be docked in the handset receptacle <NUM>, and/or whether power is supplied to the base station <NUM> by an internal or external power source.

The power source <NUM> may be or include a relatively low voltage power source, such as <NUM> VDC supplied from an onboard power source (e.g., a battery or batteries) or an external source, such as mains (e.g., from a wall electrical receptacle), in which case the voltage would be converted from AC to the relatively low DC voltage, or an external battery unit. Of course, in the case of mains, the power source <NUM> can have an AC/DC converter to convert the mains to the relatively low voltage. Generally, components of the base station <NUM>, such as the control panel <NUM> and the controller <NUM>, may be supplied power from the power source <NUM>, particularly the relatively low voltage.

Optionally, the power source <NUM> may be or include a relatively high voltage power source to provide a corresponding high voltage to the handset <NUM>. The power source <NUM> may have or be coupled to a transformer that converts a relatively low voltage, such as the above-referenced <NUM> VDC, to the relatively high voltage, particularly a relatively high DC voltage. The high voltage should be sufficiently high to create an electric field that can generate a Taylor cone of the solution; also a current supply sufficient to charge up the solution and also overcome parasitic losses/capacitances should be supplied. Thus, in embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, the power source <NUM> can produce high voltage with sufficient current output to perform a desired electrospin or electrospray operation. The high DC voltage may be preferably about <NUM> kV DC; more preferably about <NUM> kV DC to about <NUM> kV DC; even more preferably about <NUM> kV DC to about <NUM> kV DC; and most preferably about <NUM> kV DC to about <NUM> kV DC. Optionally, the high voltage may be controllable using the control panel <NUM>, for instance, preferably about <NUM> kV DC to about <NUM> kV DC; even preferably from about <NUM> kV DC to about <NUM> kV DC; and even more preferably about <NUM> kV DC to about <NUM> kV DC.

The relatively high voltage HV can be supplied to the handset <NUM> via the transmission medium <NUM>, under control of the control panel <NUM> and controller <NUM>, for instance. Further, the relatively high voltage can be provided to the handset <NUM> to generate an electric field (EF) in and around a solution contained in the handset <NUM> to output the solution in electrospun or electrospray format. Alternatively, the high voltage power source may be provided in the handset <NUM>.

Incidentally, the transmission medium <NUM> (or portions thereof) may be removably coupled to the base station <NUM>. Thus, different handsets, such as handset <NUM>, may be coupled to the same base station <NUM>. The control panel <NUM> may be used to control settings, configurations, etc. based on the particular handset coupled to the base station <NUM>. Optionally, the base station <NUM> may detect the type of handset and automatically set some or all settings, configurations, etc. based on the detected type. Alternatively, the base station <NUM>, via the control panel <NUM>, may display options so the user may set the settings, configurations, etc. based on the particularly type of handset. Likewise, the grounding line <NUM> may be removably coupled to the base station <NUM>.

Alternatively, the system <NUM> may be comprised of the handset <NUM> and not the base station <NUM>. That is, in one or more embodiments, components of the base station <NUM> may be implemented in the handset <NUM> such that the handset <NUM> can be fully operational as a stand-alone electrospinning or electrospraying apparatus. For example, the handset <NUM> can have a power source to provide a high voltage HV to perform the electrospinning or electrospraying process and a power source to provide relatively low voltage (e.g., <NUM> VDC) to power other components of the handset <NUM>, such as an electric motor of the handset <NUM>. Optionally, the transmission medium <NUM> may still be coupled to the handset <NUM>, for instance, to provide power from mains (e.g., a wall receptacle). Of course, in the latter case the transmission medium <NUM> may not need to accommodate relatively high voltage, since such high voltage is now provided by the handset <NUM>. Alternatively, the handset <NUM> may be powered locally, using a battery or batteries directly coupled to or in the handset <NUM>.

The handset <NUM> can be comprised of a body assembly <NUM> and an output assembly <NUM>. The output assembly <NUM> can be removably coupled to the body assembly <NUM>, for instance, using a snap-fit connection or connections. The output assembly <NUM> can have an outlet or nozzle <NUM> or, alternatively, be coupled to the nozzle. Optionally, whether the nozzle <NUM> is considered part of the output assembly <NUM> or a different component thereof, such nozzle <NUM> may be removably coupled to the body assembly <NUM>. Generally, the user can provide a control input to the body assembly <NUM> to cause a high voltage HV and thus a corresponding electric field to be applied in and around solution in the output assembly <NUM>, such that the solution is output in electrospun or electrospray fashion from the nozzle <NUM>.

The body assembly <NUM> may be deemed a durable, and the output assembly <NUM> may be deemed a consumable, in that the body <NUM> assembly may be used over and over again, whereas some or all of the output assembly <NUM> can be consumed and thus replaced. Of course, the body assembly <NUM> may itself have consumables, such as a battery or batteries. Put another way, the "consumable" portion of the handset <NUM> may be implemented in one of two ways: a single use configuration whereby the entire output assembly <NUM> is removable and replaceable with another entire output assembly <NUM>, or a multi-use configuration whereby only a portion of the output assembly <NUM>, for instance, a consumable housing (e.g., carpule) or solution container portion thereof, may be removed and replaced with another consumable housing or solution container portion.

The output assembly <NUM> can contain the solution, for instance, in a container (e.g., a carpule, cartridge, etc.). When the container is empty or if another type of solution is desired, the entire output assembly <NUM> may be removed from the body assembly <NUM> and another output assembly <NUM> provided in place. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, only a portion of the output assembly <NUM> may be replaced, such as only the container.

<FIG> is a sectional view of a non-limiting example of a handset <NUM> (i.e., portable, hand-held device) according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, configured to output an electrospun or electrosprayed solution stored in the handset <NUM>. <FIG> is an enlarged view of a portion of the hand-held device of <FIG>. More specifically, the portion shown in <FIG> can represent a lock.

The handset <NUM> can be comprised of a body assembly <NUM> and an output assembly <NUM>. The output assembly can have or be coupled to an output or nozzle <NUM>. That is, the nozzle <NUM> may be part of the output assembly <NUM> or considered a separate component from the nozzle <NUM>. Optionally, the body assembly <NUM> may be coupled to the transmission medium <NUM>, which, in turn, may be coupled to a base station, such as the base station <NUM>.

The body assembly <NUM> can be comprised of a housing <NUM>, a user control interface <NUM>, a drive, which may include a motor <NUM> and an actuator <NUM>, a high voltage HV connector <NUM> configured to provide high voltage HV to the output assembly <NUM>, and circuitry <NUM> configured to control various aspects, operations, and functions of the body assembly <NUM> and the handset <NUM> as a whole. Optionally, the body assembly <NUM> may have a distance sensor <NUM> configured to determine distance of the handset <NUM>, for instance, a nozzle tip <NUM>, away from a deposit surface. Optionally, the body assembly <NUM> may have a solution fill level detector <NUM>. Optionally, the body assembly <NUM> may have a consumable detector configured to detect whether the output assembly <NUM> is properly connected to the body assembly <NUM>. Optionally, the body assembly <NUM> may have a light source <NUM> configured to output light for a feedback indicator, such as a feedback indicator <NUM> of the output assembly <NUM>; additionally or alternatively, the body assembly <NUM> may have its own one or more feedback indicators, configured to provide visual and/or audible feedback to the user. Optionally, the body assembly <NUM> may have a haptic feedback mechanism <NUM> configured to provide haptic feedback to the user, such as vibration and/or tapping. The components of the body assembly <NUM> are described in more detail below. The feedback indicator <NUM> may be based on signals from the distance sensor <NUM>. Alternatively, a visual-based system may be used as so-called feedback to determine suitable distance(s) of the handset <NUM>, particularly the nozzle tip <NUM>, away from the deposit surface. A visual-based system may implement intersecting lights (e.g., lasers) to assist the user identify a suitable positioning for the nozzle tip <NUM> relative to the deposit surface.

The output assembly <NUM> can be comprised of a housing <NUM>; the feedback indicator <NUM>; a conducting rod <NUM>; a high voltage connector <NUM>; a consumable housing <NUM>, which may include a bung <NUM> and a solution container <NUM> that contains solution; a needle electrode <NUM>; and, of course, the nozzle <NUM>. Optionally, the output assembly <NUM> may also include an electrode <NUM>, which may be a disc electrode, a plate-shaped electrode, or a flange electrode (hereinafter "disc electrode <NUM>"). As set forth herein, the needle electrode <NUM> may be termed a primary electrode, and the disc electrode <NUM> may be deemed a secondary electrode. The components of the output assembly <NUM> are described in more detail below.

The following paragraphs provide more detailed description regarding select components of the body assembly <NUM>.

The user control interface <NUM> of the body assembly <NUM> may be in the form of a trigger or a switch (illustrated in <FIG>), for instance, a tactile switch or trigger. The user control interface <NUM> can be activated by user input, for instance, a user's finger or thumb, to activate the handset <NUM>. Specifically, the user control interface <NUM> can be activated by the user to activate the motor <NUM> to output the solution to the nozzle <NUM> and output therefrom, to activate the high voltage HV to create a corresponding electric field for application to the solution, or both. Generally, the user control interface <NUM> may be provided far enough away from the nozzle <NUM> to prevent interference, for instance. As a non-limiting example, the user control interface <NUM> may be about <NUM> from the nozzle <NUM>.

Optionally, the user control interface <NUM> may be a multi-stage user interface, such as a half/full press tactile switch or trigger. Thus, for example, the first stage may be to check the settings of the handset <NUM>, for instance, to identify whether the handset <NUM> is suitably positioned - i.e., not too far away and/or not too close - relative to the deposit surface (e.g., skin of the user). That is, the first stage may be used to for depth adjustment of the handset <NUM> before outputting the electrospun or electrosprayed solution. The second stage may be to cause output of the electrospun or electrosprayed solution by controlling the motor <NUM> and the high voltage applied to and around the solution.

Generally, too far away may be defined as greater than about <NUM>, preferably about <NUM> or greater. For example, about <NUM> to about <NUM> may be deemed too far away, and greater than <NUM> may be deemed precariously too far away, for instance, where substandard or defective electrospraying or electrospinning can occur. Generally, too close may be defined as closer than about <NUM>, preferably about <NUM> or closer. For example, about <NUM> to about <NUM> may be deemed too close, and closer than about <NUM> may be deemed precariously too close, for instance, in terms of the high voltage HV relative to the deposit surface. Thus, an acceptable threshold may be about <NUM> to about <NUM> and/or about <NUM> to about <NUM>, preferably about <NUM> to about <NUM>, for instance.

Optionally, an indicator, such as a particular color of light, may be output by the handset <NUM> depending upon a setting or settings of the handset <NUM>. The solution can be output from the nozzle <NUM> when the user activates the second stage of the user control interface <NUM>. Optionally, the second stage can also activate application of the high voltage HV to the solution, as eluded to above.

The motor <NUM> of the drive may be a stepper motor, for instance, that drives the actuator <NUM>, which may be a linear actuator. The motor <NUM> and actuator <NUM> can be controlled based on operation of the user control interface <NUM>. Generally speaking, actuation of the actuator <NUM> can drive a plunger relative to a solution container (described in more detail later) to cause the solution to be output from the solution container <NUM> to the nozzle <NUM> for application of high voltage HV and output from the nozzle <NUM> as electrospun or electrosprayed solution. Optionally, the motor may be programmable, for instance, using the circuitry <NUM>. Such programming may provide for different flow profiles to be used based on particular application conditions, such as environment, type of solution to be applied, high voltage HV applied, etc. Optionally, the actuator <NUM> can be controlled, prior to an electrospinning or electrospraying operation, to prime the handset <NUM> by removing air from the solution flow path.

The motor <NUM> and actuator <NUM> may not provide back suction. That is, in one or more embodiments, back suction of the solution may not be provided. Alternatively, the motor <NUM> and actuator <NUM> may be controlled to provide back suction, for instance, for a predetermined duration of time. The predetermined duration of time may be preferably about. <NUM> seconds; more preferably about. <NUM> seconds, after stopping output of the solution from the nozzle <NUM>.

The circuitry <NUM> may be comprised of a power supply (not expressly shown), which may provide low and high voltage to respective components of the handset <NUM>, and a high voltage connector <NUM> configured to provide the high voltage HV to the output assembly <NUM> to create a corresponding electric field for application to the solution at the nozzle <NUM>.

Optionally, at least a portion of the circuitry <NUM> may be implemented via a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may be arranged as shown in <FIG>, for instance. Alternatively, the PCB may be arranged in the output assembly <NUM>. Such arrangement may be to facilitate placement of a distance sensor, such as distance sensor <NUM> and/or a handset status indicator as part of the output assembly <NUM>. Further, in such a case, the PCB may not be removable from the output assembly <NUM>. That is, in such a case, a portion of the output assembly <NUM>, such as a container for solution, may be removed and replaced.

The high voltage connector <NUM> may be a spring-loaded pogo connector, which may be operative to have supplied the high voltage HV thereto only when the output assembly <NUM> is properly coupled to the body assembly <NUM>. That is, the spring-loaded pogo connector may make contact with a female component of the circuitry <NUM> essentially to complete or close the high voltage circuit and disconnect from the female component to open the high voltage circuit, when the output assembly <NUM> is not coupled to the body assembly <NUM>.

The circuitry <NUM> may also be comprised of the solution fill level detector <NUM>. Alternatively, the solution fill level detector <NUM> may be deemed a separate component or components from the circuitry <NUM>. The solution fill level detector <NUM> may include or may be implemented using a Hall effect sensor array, such as illustrated in <FIG>.

For example, the Hall effect sensor array can detect a position of the actuator <NUM>. As an example, a <NUM>% filling level may be detected as a home position of the actuator <NUM>, a <NUM>% filling level may be detected as <NUM>% remaining from an end position of the actuator <NUM>, and a filling level of about <NUM>% or about <NUM>% may be detected as the end position of the actuator <NUM> (i.e., the full travel stroke reached). Optionally, when <NUM>% or <NUM>% is detected, the actuator <NUM> may be controlled to retract, for instance, to the home position, and/or the user control interface <NUM> may be deactivated. Such control may be performed using the circuitry <NUM>. Different indicators on the handset <NUM> may be used to identify a detected fill state or level of the solution container <NUM>. For example, when a detected filling level is above a predetermined threshold an indicator, such as a light source, may be constantly illuminated. Optionally, the light source may additionally or alternatively output a particular color showing the fill level. When the detected fill level is at or below the threshold (and optionally above another threshold), the indicator may change. For example, the indicator may pulse. In such a case, the color of the light may change or, alternatively, the color may stay the same. When the detected fill level reaches the another threshold, the indicator may change. For instance, the indicator may pulse more rapidly and/or change in color. The foregoing are merely examples and not intended to limit fill level indications or corresponding actions that may be provided according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter based on the detected fill level.

The circuitry <NUM> may also be comprised of the distance sensor <NUM>. Alternatively, the distance sensor <NUM> may be deemed a separate component or components from the circuitry <NUM>. The distance sensor <NUM> can be arranged as shown in <FIG>, for instance. Alternatively, the distance sensor <NUM> can be provided in or at the output assembly <NUM>. Generally, the distance sensor <NUM> can determine distance of the handset <NUM>, for instance, the nozzle <NUM>, from a deposit surface. Signals from the distance sensor <NUM> can be provided to control operations of the handset <NUM>. For example, signals from the distance sensor <NUM> can be provided to the circuitry <NUM> to control, for instance, disable, the motor <NUM> and/or the user control interface <NUM>. That is, optionally, based on signals from the distance sensor <NUM>, the handset <NUM> can automatically shut off the high voltage HV supply to the electrode. Such control may be performed when signals from the distance sensor <NUM> indicate that the handset <NUM> is positioned too far away from and/or too close to the deposit surface. The signals from the distance sensor <NUM> can also be processed by the circuitry <NUM> to identify whether the handset <NUM> is suitably positioned relative to the deposit surface and therefore allow operation of the handset <NUM> to output electrospun or electrosprayed solution to the deposit surface.

The body assembly <NUM> may also have a consumable detector <NUM>, which may include a switch. Optionally, the consumable detector <NUM> may be part of the circuitry <NUM>. Alternatively, the consumable detector <NUM> may be may be deemed a separate component or components from the circuitry <NUM>. The consumable detector <NUM> can detect whether the output assembly <NUM> is properly connected to the body assembly <NUM>. For example, when the output assembly <NUM> is properly connected to the body assembly <NUM>, the consumable detector <NUM> may output a signal or signals to indicate that the output assembly <NUM> is coupled to the body assembly <NUM>. Optionally, such signal(s) may control the feedback indicator <NUM> on the body assembly <NUM> and/or the output assembly <NUM> to output an indication of such proper coupling. Additionally or alternatively, such signal(s) may allow activation of the user control interface <NUM> and/or high voltage HV supply to the electrode. Conversely, absence of the signal(s) may cause deactivation of the user control interface <NUM> and/or the high voltage HV supply to the electrode. Optionally, the consumable detector <NUM> include or interface with a safety locking pin <NUM> (example shown in <FIG>) configured to engage with a corresponding receptacle of the body assembly <NUM> (not shown) to better ensure the output assembly <NUM> is in place relative to the body assembly <NUM> before the high voltage HV is activated and provided to the output assembly <NUM>. Though <FIG> shows a safety lock in the form of locking pin <NUM>, such safety lock may take other forms, such as flange, shoulder, corner, and/or edge keyed geometric configurations. Additionally or alternatively, optionally, the safety lock may include a pressing member <NUM> and a pressed member <NUM>, such as shown in <FIG>. Generally, the pressing member <NUM> (e.g., a pin) on the output assembly <NUM>, when properly connected to the body assembly <NUM>, can contact and press the pressed member <NUM> to displace the pressed member <NUM> to complete a circuit for high voltage to be supplied.

The body assembly <NUM> may have a light source <NUM>, such as one or more lights. Optionally, the light source <NUM> may be comprised of one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). Optionally, the light source <NUM> may be part of the circuitry <NUM>. Alternatively, the light source <NUM> may be may be deemed a separate component or components from the circuitry <NUM>. The light source <NUM> may be configured to output light, in controlled fashion, to an indicator, which may be provided as part of the body assembly <NUM> or as part of the output assembly <NUM>, as illustrated in <FIG>. Further, the light source <NUM> may be controlled to output light, for instance, a specific color and/or consistency, based on signals from the consumable detector <NUM>, the distance sensor <NUM>, and/or the user control interface <NUM>. Optionally, the light source <NUM> can output different colors of light individually, at one time, based on signals from the consumable detector <NUM>, the distance sensor <NUM>, and/or the user control interface <NUM>.

Optionally, the body assembly <NUM> may have a haptic feedback mechanism <NUM>. The haptic feedback mechanism may include a vibration motor, for instance. The haptic feedback mechanism <NUM> may provide feedback in the form of vibration and/or tapping. Such feedback may be based on how far away the handset <NUM> is detected to be from the deposit surface, as sensed by the distance sensor <NUM>, for instance. For example, the haptic feedback mechanism <NUM> may start providing feedback when the handset <NUM> crosses a first predetermined distance threshold. The haptic feedback mechanism <NUM> may transition to a different feedback upon crossing a second predetermined distance threshold. For instance, the haptic feedback mechanism may start vibrating when the first predetermined distance threshold is crossed, then vibrate more strongly, or according to a different pattern, when the second predetermined distance threshold is crossed. Further, the predetermined distance thresholds can be according to a moving direction of the handset <NUM> going closer to the deposit surface and, separately, according to a moving direction of the handset <NUM> going farther away from the deposit surface.

The following paragraphs provide more detailed description regarding select components of the output assembly <NUM>. Further, <FIG>, which show various aspects of the output assembly <NUM> in greater detail, may be referenced.

As noted above, the output assembly <NUM> can be comprised of the housing <NUM>; the feedback indicator <NUM>; the conducting rod <NUM>; the high voltage connector <NUM>; the consumable housing <NUM>, which may include the bung <NUM> and the solution container <NUM> that contains solution; the needle electrode <NUM>; optionally the nozzle <NUM>; and optionally the disc electrode <NUM>. <FIG> show the output assembly <NUM> in more detail.

As shown in <FIG>, the output assembly <NUM> can be removably coupled (i.e., connected and disconnected) to the body assembly <NUM>, for instance, using a snap-fit or clip-on connection or connections. The output assembly <NUM> may be removed and replaced with another output assembly <NUM>, for instance, when the solution container <NUM> in the replaced output assembly <NUM> is empty of solution or reduced to a predetermined fill level amount. <FIG> shows an example of a clip-on connector <NUM> (opposite connector not shown) that can be received by a corresponding receptacle of the body assembly <NUM>. The connector <NUM> (and its opposing connector) may be depressed inwardly to release the output assembly <NUM> from the body assembly <NUM>.

Such coupling of the output assembly <NUM> with the body assembly <NUM> can provide power, particularly the high voltage HV, to the output assembly <NUM> to create the electric field to be applied to the solution to output the solution in electrospun or electrospray fashion. In particular, proper coupling of the output assembly <NUM> with the body assembly <NUM> can include an end of the conducting rod <NUM>, which may be made of a conductive material, such as metal (e.g., stainless steel, brass) being received by the HV connector <NUM>, such that high voltage HV can be provided to the conducting rod <NUM> and thus the needle electrode <NUM> and disc electrode <NUM>, when present, since the conducting rod <NUM> can contact the disc electrode <NUM> using a spring-loaded connection, for instance. Optionally, when high voltage HV is supplied to the HV connector <NUM>, the high voltage can be continuously supplied, i.e., not pulsed or varied during a particular electrospinning or electrospraying operation. Of course, the high voltage HV supplied to the HV connector <NUM> can be changed from electrospinning/electrospraying operation to electrospinning/electrospraying operation, for instance, by using the control panel <NUM> of the base station <NUM>. Also, a boss of the actuator <NUM> may be received in a recess of the consumable housing <NUM>, such that the boss abuts the bung <NUM> and can act on the bung <NUM> to cause the bung <NUM> to move inside the consumable housing <NUM> and output solution to the needle electrode <NUM> and from the nozzle <NUM>.

The output assembly <NUM> may have a feedback indicator <NUM>; additionally or alternatively, the feedback indicator <NUM> may be part of the body assembly <NUM>. The feedback indicator <NUM> may be configured to provide a visual output to the user, for instance, of a status or characteristic of the handset <NUM>. For example, the feedback indicator <NUM> may include a light path <NUM> operatively coupled to the light source <NUM> such that light from the light source <NUM> can be output at the feedback indicator <NUM>. Additionally or alternatively, one or more additional feedback indicators may be provided (not shown) to provide feedback in the form of audio feedback. For example, one or more speakers may be provided. The circuitry <NUM> may be configured to output saved prerecorded messages regarding the status of the handset <NUM>, such as whether the handset <NUM> is positioned correctly or not in terms of distance from the deposit surface, whether the solution container <NUM> is empty, whether the handset <NUM> is ready (or not ready) for electrospinning or electrospraying operation, etc..

The consumable housing <NUM> may include the bung <NUM> and the solution container <NUM> that contains solution. As noted above, a boss of the actuator <NUM> may be received in a recess of the consumable housing <NUM>, such that the boss abuts the bung <NUM>. The boss can act on the bung <NUM>, by way of movement of the actuator <NUM>, to cause the bung <NUM> to move inside the consumable housing <NUM> and cause solution to be pushed toward and into the needle electrode <NUM> and ultimately output from the nozzle <NUM>. The solution can be stored in the consumable housing <NUM> in a manner that limits atmospheric exposure until usage. For example, when the solution is to be used, a rear portion of the needle electrode <NUM> can puncture an airtight film or membrane over an opening to the solution container <NUM> to form a fluid path between the bulk of the solution and an output of the nozzle <NUM> via the needle electrode <NUM>.

Optionally, the consumable housing <NUM> may be replaceable within the housing <NUM> in favor of another consumable housing <NUM>, for instance, when the former is empty of solution or has a detected amount of solution below a predetermined fill level. Additionally or alternatively, the entire output assembly <NUM> may be removed from the body assembly <NUM> and replaced with another output assembly, such as another output assembly <NUM>.

The needle electrode <NUM> may be hollow, as eluded to above, and may be conductive. Thus, the needle electrode <NUM> may serve as both a fluid path for the solution and a conductive surface to allow charge created by an electric field caused by the high voltage HV to be injected into the solution. More specifically, the needle electrode <NUM>, which may be part of the nozzle <NUM>, may be hollow so as to receive solution from the solution container <NUM> and output the solution at or just before the nozzle tip <NUM>. Generally, the flow path formed by the needle electrode and the nozzle tip <NUM> may be formed of materials that do not or do not substantially chemically or physio-chemically react with the solution in any substantial way.

Optionally, no resistor may be provided in the path of high voltage HV for the needle electrode <NUM>, such as illustrated diagrammatically in <FIG>. Optionally, the needle electrode <NUM> may be set back from the nozzle tip <NUM>, such as shown in <FIG> and the right image of <FIG>, by a setback amount SB. In one or more embodiments, the needle electrode <NUM> may be set back SB preferably about <NUM> to about <NUM> from the nozzle tip <NUM>, more preferably about <NUM>, even more preferably about <NUM>. Such setback SB of the needle electrode <NUM> may reduce lateral dispersion of the electrospun solution, which may make the web of electrospun fibers more targeted.

Optionally, in one or more embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in <FIG>, a disc electrode <NUM> may be provided as part of the output assembly <NUM> or as part of the nozzle <NUM>, if the nozzle <NUM> is identified as a component separate from the output assembly <NUM>. Alternatively, in one or more embodiments, the disc electrode <NUM> may not be provided, and only the needle electrode <NUM> may be provided. Optionally, the high voltage HV paths to the needle electrode <NUM> and the disc electrode <NUM> may be distinct, as illustrated diagrammatically in <FIG>. Optionally, no resistor may be provided in the path of high voltage HV for the disc electrode <NUM>, such as illustrated diagrammatically in <FIG>. Further, the disc electrode <NUM> may have the same polarity as the needle electrode <NUM>. The electric field created by the disc electrode <NUM>, which may be viewed as a separate electric field from the electric field of the needle electrode <NUM>, may reduce lateral dispersion of the electrospun solution, which may make the web of electrospun fibers more targeted.

The nozzle <NUM> may be removable from the housing <NUM>, for instance, via threaded connections, such as illustrated in <FIG>. Thus, different nozzles may be implemented according to desired electrospin or electrospray characteristics. Further, the nozzle <NUM> may be comprised of an insulating material or materials with appropriate dielectric constant(s) to electrically insulate the needle electrode <NUM>. For example, in one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter, a liner/sheath <NUM> may be provided for the needle electrode <NUM>, where the liner/sheath <NUM> may run past the tip of the needle electrode <NUM> on one side and to the other end of the needle electrode <NUM> on the other side, for instance, to the disc electrode <NUM> (in a case where the disc electrode <NUM> is provided). Such linear/sheath <NUM> may be a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) liner/sheath, for instance, and may prevent or minimize solution from sticking or clogging to the nozzle at a point where a Taylor cone is formed, for instance, in the case of electrospinning. Optionally, as illustrated in <FIG>, a portion of the nozzle <NUM> may be formed of a first non-conductive material, for instance, PTFE, and a portion of the nozzle <NUM> removably coupleable to the housing <NUM> may be formed of a second non-conductive material, for instance, polypropylene (PP).

<FIG> is a basic flow chart of a method <NUM> not forming part of the invention.

At <NUM>, the method <NUM> not forming part of the invention can include providing a device or a system according to an embodiment of the disclosed subject matter. Optionally, the providing at <NUM> can include replacing the solution of the device or system. For example, an entire output assembly may be coupled to a body assembly according to embodiments described herein, such output assembly having a desired solution to output from the device or system. As another example, only a container (e.g., a carpule, cartridge, etc.) of the output assembly that contains the desired solution can be provided, for instance, replaced when empty or a change in type of solution is desired.

At <NUM>, the method <NUM> not forming part of the invention can provide using the provided device or system, for instance, as set forth herein. Such using can include depositing the solution on a deposit surface, such as a user's skin. Optionally, the electrosprayed or electrospun solution may be deposited on top of a cosmetic already applied to the skin. Alternatively, the electrosprayed or electrospun solution may be deposited directly on the skin. Optionally, another layer (or layers), for instance, a cosmetic layer, may be provided on the solution deposited directly on the skin. Thus, in one or more embodiments, the deposited electrosprayed or electrospun solution may form part of a so-called multi-layer application, as either a base layer or a higher-level layer, such as a middle or outer layer.

At <NUM>, the method <NUM> not forming part of the invention may include replacing the solution of the device or system, for instance, when the solution has been expended or simply when a change in type of solution is desired. As noted above, the entire output assembly may be replaced to change the solution or, alternatively, only a container (e.g., a carpule, cartridge, etc.) of the output assembly that contains the desired solution can be replaced to change the solution.

Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may provide for an electrospinning or electrospraying process that may be functionally independent of orientation of a solution output device, particularly a portable, hand-held solution output device, and may be positioned to output solution on a deposit surface in relatively difficult areas, such as a particularly difficult area of a human's body. Also, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can implement a modular construction, allowing multiple physical configurations, types of solution, and/or solution output characteristics. Additionally, embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can allow for solution to be readily replaced without contamination between samples.

Claim 1:
A portable, hand-held device for electrospinning or electrospraying toward a deposit surface a predetermined solution formulated for the device, the device comprising:
a durable portion having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; and
a consumable portion coupled to the first end of the durable portion,
wherein the consumable portion includes:
an electrode,
a hollow nozzle (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to output the solution from a nozzle tip (<NUM>) thereof, the hollow nozzle (<NUM>, <NUM>) defining a first portion of a flow path of the solution to outside the device, and the nozzle tip (<NUM>) defines a second portion of the flow path, and a housing (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to contain a predetermined maximum volume of the solution, and output the solution to the hollow nozzle (<NUM>, <NUM>),
wherein the durable portion includes:
a drive mechanism configured to cause solution from the housing (<NUM>, <NUM>) to be output to the hollow nozzle (<NUM>, <NUM>), and
a user control interface (<NUM>) including a switch configured to receive manual input from a user in the form of a pressing operation and move radially inward to control the drive mechanism and application of a high voltage (HV) to the electrode to create an electric field for application to the solution to electrospin or electrospray the solution from the hollow nozzle (<NUM>, <NUM>) toward the deposit surface,
wherein circuitry (<NUM>) is configured to provide the high voltage (HV) to the electrode, and
characterized in that
the switch is closer to the second end of the durable portion than the housing (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the consumable portion is to the second end of the durable portion.