A New Prototype?

Our current prototype utilizes a plunger that allows the user to apply the needle pad at an evenly distributed pressure of their choice. It may be the case that an alternate application method may be more appropriate. For instance, we received feedback from a classmate who has experience with microneedles that the needles should be injected quickly. If they are injected too slowly, the skin surface can bend, which he surmised would be a bad thing. One potential problem with the skin bending is that there may be a less even distribution of needles across the skin. Or perhaps the allergen would not be injected at the correct depth. Thus, we have considered spring-loaded designs that can "shoot" the needles into the skin. Such a mechanism could be initiated by a click at the top of the applicator or even at the bottom of the applicator as it comes into the surface of the skin. I have some rough sketches that I will post as soon as I can scan them. After further discussion and consideration, we may look to translate the sketches into CAD drawings and look to 3-d print.