Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a personalized herbal patch manufacturing device that is capable of analyzing a user’s skin condition to determine an optimal herbal ingredients required for preparation of transdermal patches by extracting essence of herbs and mixing with carrier materials to create a uniform solution suitable for manifesting high-quality herbal patches designed for transdermal application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The use of herbal ingredients for therapeutic purposes has been a part of traditional medicine for centuries. These natural remedies have gained significant popularity due to their perceived benefits and fewer side effects compared to synthetic pharmaceuticals. One of the most effective methods for delivering herbal compounds to the body is through transdermal patches, which allow the active ingredients to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the skin. However, the effectiveness of transdermal patches largely depends on the type of herbal ingredients used and their compatibility with an individual’s skin condition.

[0003] Traditional approaches to creating herbal patches do not always consider the unique skin conditions of individual users, leading to suboptimal absorption or potential irritation. There is a need for a system that can assess the skin condition of a user and determine the most suitable herbal ingredients to use, ensuring maximum efficacy and safety. Thus, there is a need to develop a device that analyze a user’s skin condition and select the optimal herbal formulation for transdermal application. This approach enhances the precision and effectiveness of herbal patches, offering a more customized solution for users.

[0004] WO2006070802A1 discloses about a transdermal patch which can be easily and stably bonded to a pressure-sensitive adhesive sheet while preventing a powdery transdermal drug from scattering, and a method of producing the same. A transdermal patch comprising a first release paper having multiple holes aligned thereon, multiple substrate pieces being in a size sufficiently larger than the holes and having a pressure-sensitive adhesive face formed on one face, and a second release paper bonded to the back face of the first release paper. On the surface of the first release paper, the pressure-sensitive adhesive face of each of the substrate pieces is bonded so that the multiple substrate pieces respectively cover the holes. On the back face of the first release paper, the parts of the pressure-sensitive adhesive face of the substrate pieces which are exposed from the holes are coated with a powdery transdermal drug. The second release paper is bonded to the back face of the first release paper so that the parts exposed from the holes and coated with the powdery transdermal drug are covered.

[0005] US11052054B2 disclose about a method for manufacturing a transdermal patch from a drug-containing web that minimizes waste. The web is a layered composite that includes at least a backing layer and a drug-in-adhesive layer and a first strippable release liner. The web is kiss-cut along intersecting cut lines at least down to the depth of the liner, generally defining the extent of individual transdermal patches. The intersections of the cut lines define small zones that are punched out of the web in a generally star shape. The portions of the web above the liner are peeled away from the liner and transferred to a faster moving second liner so that the patches are now further spaced apart from one another. This second liner is then cut to provide transdermal patches that are mounted to release liners that are substantially broader in extent than the patches themselves.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to manufacture transdermal patches, with a focus on extracting active ingredients from herbal materials and applying them to the skin. However, these devices follow a one-size-fits-all approach, where the same ingredients are used for all users, without accounting for the individual skin conditions and specific therapeutic needs of each person. As a result, these devices fail to deliver optimal results, especially in cases where a user's skin condition requires a more customized formulation of herbal ingredients.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that analyze a user’s skin condition in real-time and determining the most appropriate herbal ingredients based on that analysis. The device ensure that each transdermal patch is specifically formulated to address the unique needs of the user’s skin, improving both the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that analyzes a user’s skin condition to determine the optimal herbal ingredients for preparing transdermal patches, ensuring a personalized and effective formulation that meets the specific needs of the user’s skin.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that extracts ingredients from herbal materials using steam, thereby ensuring the efficient extraction of the required properties for the patch formulation.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that integrates a temperature control means to preserve the integrity of active ingredients during the blending and emulsification process, ensuring optimal formulation.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that monitors the weight of materials being dispensed to ensure proper quantities are used in the formulation process.

[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention relates to a personalized herbal patch manufacturing device that determines a user’s skin condition to identify the optimal herbal ingredients needed for preparing transdermal patches. The device extracts the essence of herbs and combines the extracts with carrier materials to produce a uniform solution, ensuring the creation of high-quality herbal patches intended for transdermal application.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a personalized herbal patch manufacturing device comprises of a housing positioned on a fixed surface installed with a multi-sectioned chamber stored with various herbs, an (IR) infrared spectroscopy sensor attached to the housing for identification of user’s skin condition and underlying issues, a motorized iris unit attached with the chambers to open for dispensing an herbs materials inside a distillation container arranged inside the housing, a boiler connected to the distillation container using pumps configured to transport water and steam for generating steam to extract active ingredients from herbs and plants and are collected inside a collection chamber positioned inside the body, an emulsification container installed inside the housing to receive the extract via a hollow conduit to emulsify into a liquid form, a mixing chamber configured to combine emulsified extract with carrier materials, a receptacle installed inside the housing stored with multiple cloth strips, a telescopically operated gripper provided inside the housing, dynamically regulated by the microcontroller to grip a cloth strip and position over a conveyor belt provided inside the housing, the housing is mounted with caterpillar treads for enhanced mobility, enabling the housing to traverse uneven terrain for on-site production of transdermal patches.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a motorized two-axis slider arranged on ceiling of the housing to provide horizontal and vertical movement to an electronic nozzle attached with the slider and connected to the mixing chamber via a hollow tube for dispensing an optimum amount of blended solution over the cloth strip, a drying container connected to the conveyor belt for receiving cloth for further processing and preparation for use in the final patch product, a vessel stored with mannitol installed inside the housing integrated with an electronic valve for dispensing an optimal amount of mannitol inside the mixing chamber, a Peltier unit provided inside the mixing chamber maintained at low temperatures to preserve integrity of active ingredients and prevent degradation of solution and a weight sensor is installed with the chambers to detect weight of herbs.

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a personalized herbal patch manufacturing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to a personalized herbal patch manufacturing device that is capable of analyzing a user’s skin condition to determine an optimal herbal ingredients required for preparation of transdermal patches by extracting essence of herbs and mixing with carrier materials to create a uniform solution suitable for manifesting high-quality herbal patches designed for transdermal application.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a personalized herbal patch manufacturing device is illustrated, comprising a housing 101 positioned on a fixed surface installed with a multi-sectioned chamber 102 stored with various herbs, an (IR) infrared spectroscopy sensor 103 attached to the housing 101, a distillation container 117 arranged inside the housing 101, a boiler 104 connected to the distillation container 117, a collection chamber 105 positioned inside the body, an emulsification container 106 installed inside the housing 101, a mixing chamber 107 inside the housing 101.

[0024] Figure 1 further illustrates a receptacle 108 installed inside the housing 101, a telescopically operated gripper 109 provided inside the housing 101, a conveyor belt 110 provided inside the housing 101, a motorized two-axis slider 111 arranged on ceiling of the housing 101, an electronic nozzle 112 attached with the slider 111 and connected to the mixing chamber 107 via a hollow tube, a drying container 113 connected to the conveyor belt 110, a vessel 114 installed inside the housing 101 and a Peltier unit 115 provided inside the mixing chamber 107.

[0025] The proposed device herein comprises of a housing 101 designed to position securely on a fixed surface and is constructed from a durable, lightweight material such as ABS plastic or aluminum alloy, ensuring stability and resistance to wear. The housing 101 incorporates a multi-sectioned chamber 102 for storing a variety of herbs, with each section made from food-grade stainless steel or high-density polymer to preserve the integrity of the herbal materials and prevent contamination.

[0026] A user is required to press a push button integrated with the device, such that when the user presses the push button, it initiates an electrical circuit mechanism. Inside the push button, there is a spring-loaded contact mechanism that, under normal circumstances, maintains an open circuit. When the button is pressed, it compresses the spring, causing the contacts to meet and complete the circuit. This closure then sends an electrical signal to an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device to either power up or shut down. Conversely, releasing the button allows the spring to return to its original position, breaking the circuit and sending the signal to deactivate the device.

[0027] Upon activation, the microcontroller activates an infrared (IR) spectroscopy sensor 103 mounted on the outer surface of the housing 101 to provide precise detection of the user's skin condition and underlying issues. The infrared (IR) spectroscopy sensor 103 consists of an IR light source, a sample interaction region and a detector. The IR light source emits a broad spectrum of infrared radiation, which passes through or reflects off the skin.

[0028] As the IR light interacts with the sample, specific wavelengths are absorbed based on the molecular vibrations of the sample's components, creating a unique absorption spectrum. The remaining light is collected by the detector, typically a thermopile or photodetector, which converts the light signals into electrical signals. These signals are then processed and analyzed by the microcontroller to identify chemical or physical properties, such as moisture content or specific biomarkers, based on the absorption patterns, thus allowing the sensor 103 to detect and quantify various characteristics of the sample with precision.

[0029] The microcontroller processes the data collected about the user's skin condition. The microcontroller references the pre-stored dataset containing information on various skin conditions and their corresponding herbal remedies. Based on the analyzed data, the microcontroller identifies the optimal combination of herbal ingredients required for the transdermal patch.

[0030] Once the appropriate ingredients are determined, the microcontroller actuates a motorized iris unit attached to the bottom portion of the multi-sectioned chambers 102. This iris unit, comprising a series of overlapping blades driven by a small DC motor, opens to dispense the exact amount of herbal material specified by the microcontroller. The dispensed materials are directed into a distillation container 117 arranged inside the housing 101, ensuring precise and efficient preparation of the ingredients for the next stage of the process.

[0031] A weight sensor is installed with the chambers 102 to detect weight of herbs and materials being dispensed from the chambers 102. The weight sensor operates on the principle of measuring the force exerted by an object, which is converted into an electrical signal. The weight sensor consists of a load cell, which is the core component. The load cell contains a strain gauge that deforms when a weight is applied.

[0032] This deformation causes a change in the electrical resistance of the strain gauge, which is then converted into a voltage signal. This signal is processed by an amplifier and transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller analyzes the signal to determine the weight of the herbs and materials being dispensed from the chambers 102. Once the weight reaches a pre-set threshold value, the microcontroller triggers the iris unit to close, stopping the dispensing process and ensuring accurate material handling.

[0033] A boiler 104 is installed within the housing 101 and is connected to the distillation container 117 through heat-resistant pumps which is designed to transfer water and steam efficiently. The boiler 104 generates steam by heating water, which is then directed into the distillation container 117 to interact with the herbs. The steam penetrates the herbal materials, facilitating the release of their active ingredients through a process of thermal extraction. The steam, enriched with the extracted components, flows through an open channel and is subsequently condensed, with the extracted properties being collected separately in a collection chamber 105 located within the housing 101.

[0034] An emulsification container 106 is positioned within the housing that receives the extract produced during the distillation process through a hollow conduit. This container 106 is designed to emulsify the extract, transforming the extract into a consistent liquid form. The emulsified extract is then directed into a mixing chamber 107, where the extract is combined with carrier materials such as mannitol. A vessel 114 containing mannitol is securely installed within the housing 101 and is designed to preserve the quality of the stored material. The vessel 114 is equipped with an electronic valve that is precisely controlled to dispense an optimal amount of mannitol into the mixing chamber 107.

[0035] The electronic valve comprises of an upper body that serves to hold down all the components present inside the valve including a permanent magnet that is incorporated with a shaft, a thread, a needle, and a seat to carry out the specified function of opening and closing the valve. A stepper motor equipped with copper coils is used in the electronic valve to ensure smooth movement inside the valve when mannitol is dispensed into the chamber 107. The valve further includes a holder to hold down all the components aside from the motor and coil to maintain the longevity of the motor and is connected with the microcontroller to dispense the necessary amount of mannitol into the chamber 107.

[0036] The mixing chamber 107 is equipped with a motorized stirrer that ensures thorough and homogeneous mixing of the mannitol and the extract. The stirrer includes a motor, a shaft and stirring blades. The motor drives the rotation of the shaft, which is connected to the stirring blades submerged in the mixture. As the motor rotates the shaft, the blades create turbulence and shear forces within the mixing chamber 107. These forces disrupt the boundaries between mannitol and the extract, ensuring uniform distribution and integration of both components.

[0037] A receptacle 108 is installed within the housing 101 to securely store multiple cloth strips in an organized manner, preventing contamination or damage. A telescopically operated gripper 109 is installed within the housing 101 designed to extend and contract precisely locate, grip and lift an individual cloth strip from the receptacle 108. The telescopically operated gripper 109 is linked to a pneumatic unit, including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the gripper 109. The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller.

[0038] Such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the gripper 109 and due to applied pressure, the gripper 109 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the gripper 109 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the gripper 109 in order to precisely locate, grip and lift an individual cloth strip from the receptacle 108. Once the strip is secured, the gripper 109 positions it accurately over a conveyor belt 110 inside the housing 101.

[0039] A motorized two-axis slider 111 is mounted on the ceiling of the housing 101, allowing for both horizontal and vertical movement. The two-axis slider 111 is equipped with a motor controlled by the microcontroller enabling the slider 111 to move the attached electronic nozzle 112 across the cloth strip. The nozzle 112 is connected to the mixing chamber 107 via a hollow tube, which allows the blended solution to flow from the mixing chamber 107 to the nozzle 112.

[0040] The dual-axis motorized slider 111 consists of two axes of motion, typically arranged perpendicular to each other, allowing movement in both horizontal and vertical directions. The slider 111 is controlled by the microcontroller dictating the precise movements required for positioning the electronic nozzle 112 across the cloth strip to facilitate dispensing of the blended solution on the cloth, ensuring uniform application for the manufacturing of transdermal patches.

[0041] A Peltier unit 115 is integrated inside the mixing chamber 107, where the emulsified extract and carrier materials are blended together. The Peltier unit 115 operates on the principle of the Peltier effect, which occurs when an electric current passes through the junction of two different materials, typically a combination of semiconductor elements. This current causes one junction to absorb heat, thereby cooling it, while the other junction releases heat.

[0042] The two junctions are thermally connected to heat sinks and a cooling surface. The cold side of the Peltier unit 115, which is placed in the mixing chamber 107, absorbs heat from the surroundings (e.g., the emulsified extract and carrier materials), maintaining a low temperature. Meanwhile, the hot side expels the absorbed heat to the environment via a heat sink or cooling mechanism. This temperature differential allows the Peltier unit 115 to cool the mixing chamber 107, preserving the stability of sensitive active ingredients in the solution.

[0043] A drying container 113 is connected to the conveyor belt 110 to receive the cloth strips once they are coated with the blended solution. The conveyor belt 110 operates on a series of interconnected belts that are driven by a motorized, typically using pulleys and rollers. The belt 110 moves continuously along a predetermined path, carrying cloth strips, from one section of a process to another. Once the cloths are coated with the blended solution, they are placed on the moving conveyor belt 110.

[0044] The belt 110 transports the coated cloths to the drying container 113, where the heat or airflow from the drying mechanism facilitates the evaporation of excess moisture from the cloths, solidifying the blended solution and preparing it for the final patch product. The movement of the belt 110 ensures a smooth and consistent flow of materials, enabling efficient processing and uniform drying of the coated cloths.

[0045] In addition, the housing is equipped with caterpillar treads 116 to provide improved mobility, allowing the housing to navigate uneven terrain for the on-site manufacturing of transdermal patches. The caterpillar treads 116, also known as continuous tracks, consist of a loop of reinforced rubber or metal linked together to form a continuous belt. The loop is driven by a set of sprockets powered by a motor which rotate to move the treads 116 along a surface. As the sprockets turn, they engage with the track links, causing the belt to move.

[0046] The design of caterpillar treads 116 distributes the weight of the housing evenly across a larger surface area, which reduces ground pressure and increases traction, allowing the device to move smoothly over uneven or rough terrain. This provides enhanced stability and mobility, enabling the housing to traverse difficult surfaces such as gravel, mud, or slopes, and facilitating on-site production of transdermal patches in varied environments. The continuous nature of the treads 116 also ensures that the movement is consistent and reliable, without the need for wheels or other moving parts that might become stuck or damaged on uneven ground.

[0047] The device is associated with a battery for providing the required power to the electronically and electrically operated components including the microcontroller, electrically powered sensors, motorized components and alike of the device. The battery within the device is preferably a lithium-ion-battery which is a rechargeable battery and recharges by deriving the required power from an external power source. The derived power is further stored in form of chemical energy within the battery, which when required by the components of the device derive the required energy in the form of electric current for ensuring smooth and proper functioning of the device.

[0048] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the housing 101 as disclosed in the invention is developed to be securely positioned on the fixed surface and is equipped with the multi-sectioned chamber 102 that stores various herbs. The chamber 102 is integrated with the infrared (IR) spectroscopy sensor 103 which detects the user's skin condition and identifies underlying issues. Based on the sensor’s 103 readings, the microcontroller references a dataset to determine the specific herbal ingredients needed for the transdermal patch. The microcontroller then actuates the motorized iris unit, which opens at the bottom of the chambers 102, allowing an optimal amount of herbal material to be dispensed into the distillation container 117. The device uses the boiler 104 connected to the distillation container 117 via pumps to generate steam, which is infused with the herbal materials to extract active components. The extracted properties are collected in the collection chamber 105. The extract is then transferred via the hollow conduit to an emulsification container 106, where it is mixed with a carrier material like mannitol in the mixing chamber 107. This ensures a uniform solution suitable for patch application. The blended solution is then dispensed on the cloth strip by the motorized two-axis slider 111 attached to the electronic nozzle 112, which is precisely controlled by the microcontroller. Once the cloth strip is coated, it is moved into the drying container 113 connected to the conveyor belt 110, where it is dried for further processing. The device also includes the telescopically operated gripper 109 for handling the cloth strips, ensuring seamless movement and accurate placement.

[0049] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A personalized herbal patch manufacturing device, comprising:

i) a housing 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, installed with a multi-sectioned chamber 102 stored with various herbs, wherein an (IR) infrared spectroscopy sensor 103 is attached to outer surface of said housing 101 for accurate identification of user’s skin condition and underlying issues;

ii) a microcontroller linked with said IR spectroscopy sensor 103 based on user’s skin condition, references a dataset to determine specific set of herbal ingredients for transdermal patch, and said microcontroller actuates a motorized iris unit attached with a bottom portion of said chambers 102 to open for dispensing an optimal amount of herbs materials inside a distillation container 117 arranged inside said housing 101;

iii) a boiler 104 connected to said distillation container 117 using pumps, configured to transport water and steam, for generating steam to extract active ingredients from herbs and plants, and said steam is infused with herbal materials to extract active components, wherein said steam travels through an open channel, and extracted properties are collected separately inside a collection chamber 105 positioned inside said body;

iv) an emulsification container 106 installed inside said housing 101, said extract obtained from distillation process is sent to said emulsification container 106 via a hollow conduit to emulsify into a liquid form, wherein a mixing chamber 107 is configured to combine emulsified extract with carrier materials, such as mannitol, wherein said mixing chamber 107 ensures that carrier and extract are thoroughly blended to form a uniform solution suitable for patch application;

v) a receptacle 108 installed inside said housing 101 and stored with multiple cloth strips, wherein a telescopically operated gripper 109 is provided inside said housing 101, dynamically regulated by said microcontroller to grip a cloth strip and position over a conveyor belt 110 provided inside said housing 101;

vi) a motorized two-axis slider 111 arranged on ceiling of said housing 101 to provide horizontal and vertical movement to an electronic nozzle 112 attached with said slider 111, wherein said nozzle 112 is connected to said mixing chamber 107 via a hollow tube, and said microcontroller actuates said nozzle 112 for dispensing an optimum amount of blended solution over said cloth strip, facilitating application of active ingredients onto said cloth for manufacturing transdermal patches; and

vii) a drying container 113 connected to said conveyor belt 110, wherein said cloths once coated with blended solution, are moved into said drying container 113 for further processing and preparation for use in the final patch product.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a vessel 114 stored with mannitol is installed inside said housing 101, integrated with an electronic valve for dispensing an optimal amount of mannitol inside said mixing chamber 107.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a Peltier unit 115 is provided inside said mixing chamber 107, where said emulsified extract and carrier materials are blended, which is maintained at low temperatures to preserve integrity of active ingredients and prevent degradation of solution.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a weight sensor is installed with said chambers 102 to detect weight of herbs and materials being dispensed from said chambers 102, and when said detected weight reaches a threshold value, said microcontroller re-actuates said iris unit to close.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said housing 101 is mounted with caterpillar treads 116 for enhanced mobility, enabling said housing 101 to traverse uneven terrain for on-site production of transdermal patches.