WO2023225044A1 - Universal coating or spraying device - Google Patents

Abstract

Improved methods and devices for spraying, coating, electrospinning, or electrospraying are provided. The devices include a universal coating or spraying system with an improved spinneret assembly. The spinneret assembly can be used for multi-directional coating or spraying. The spinneret assembly can allow replacement, reloading, and/or switching of coating materials and device configurations.

Description

Universal Coating or Spraying Device

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Application Serial No. 63/343,389 filed on May 18, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to the fields of coating, spraying, electrospinning, and electrospraying devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a multifunctional and/or programmable coating, spraying, electrospinning, and/or electrospraying device for multidirectional processes and/or various coating and/or covering applications.

[0003] Electrohydrodynamic processes include, but are not limited to, electrospinning and electrospraying to create polymer-based materials (e.g., nanofibers, micro-droplets, micro-belts, or thin films). Electrohydrodynamic processes have been used in many fields including biomedical applications such as preparation of new materials or coating. Conventional electrospinning devices use a needle spinneret for the generation of nanofibers, but such devices have certain drawbacks. Thus, improved electrospinning devices are desired.

[0004] The present disclosure relates to universal coating/spraying devices. In some embodiments, the devices include multifunctional, programmable devices that can address multiple applications related to coating or covering. The devices may also be equipped for capturing, storing, and transferring relevant data; analyzing and predicting data; or sensing adverse conditions/hazards. The devices can be used in clinical, medical, in home, on-field settings in both military and civilian areas for humans, animals, objects and consumer goods. [0005] In some embodiments, the devices can include handheld, portable or stationary devices that can be used for various applications and usages. The devices can allow non-contact spraying, coating, electro-spinning, electro-spraying, extrusion, jetting, thin film deposition or similar processes. The devices can contain a multi-jet, multi-directional spinneret(s) that allows faster spraying and improved fluid dynamics for better coverage and efficient coating.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example electrospinning device of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIGS. 2A- 2D illustrate an example electrospinning device of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3 is an example spinneret assembly of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIGS. 4A-4D are diagrammatic illustrations of various example devices of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate a universal coating/spraying device (FIG. 5A) and a diagrammatic representation of the device with a replaceable spinneret assembly (FIG. 5B) according to certain embodiments.

[0012] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate an embodiment of a multi-jet spinneret assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0013] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate another embodiment of a multi-jet spinneret assembly according to exemplary embodiments. [0014] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of a multi-jet spinneret assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0015] FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate another embodiment of a multi-jet spinneret assembly according to exemplary embodiments.

[0016] FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate an example multi-needle spinneret assembly of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIGS. 11 A-11 D illustrate an example light guidance system for targeting an area to be coated or sprayed.

[0018] FIG. 12 is a diagram of an example system of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an example machine that may be used to perform the disclosed methods.

[0020] FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate an embodiment of a universal coating/spraying device having a disposable spinneret assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0021] Reference will now be made in detail to certain exemplary embodiments according to the present disclosure, certain examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0022] In this application, the use of the singular includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise. In this application, the use of “or” means “and/or” unless stated otherwise. Furthermore, the use of the term “including”, as well as other forms, such as “includes” and “included”, is not limiting. Any range described herein will be understood to include the endpoints and all values between the endpoints. [0023] While principles of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to illustrative embodiments for particular applications, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited thereto. Those having ordinary skill in the art and access to the teachings provided herein will recognize additional modifications, applications, embodiments, and substitution of equivalents all fall within the scope of the embodiments described herein. Accordingly, the invention is not to be considered as limited by the foregoing description.

[0024] The present disclosure relates to universal spraying or coating devices. In particular, the devices include electrohydrodyamic systems to provide improved methods of coating, spraying, electrospraying, or electrospinning materials. The devices can be used for numerous applications, including, but not limited to, application of dressings or other treatment materials to wounds or body parts, coating or packaging objects such as food products, or production of electrospun or electrosprayed materials as part of a manufacturing process (e.g., to produce wound dressings or improved biomaterials/cosmetics).

[0025] The improved devices can include one or more improvements over currently available electrospinning or spraying devices. For example, in a multi-jet needleless or multi-needle embodiment, the devices can allow higher flow rates for more rapid material deposition, which can be beneficial to allow rapid wound treatment, e.g., in emergency situations, or for more rapid packaging or manufacturing processes. In addition, the devices can be used at varying angles, and therefore, are not constrained by directionality, which may be needed for systems that are oriented with respect to gravity. Furthermore, the device(s) described herein can include a replaceable spinneret assembly. The replaceable spinneret assembly can provide a number of advantages. For example, the replaceable spinneret assembly can allow selection of one of a variety of different spinneret assembly configurations for use with a single application apparatus and can facilitate rapid swapping of spinneret assemblies to change spinneret assembly configuration or replace a contaminated or no-longer-effective device. Furthermore, the device(s) described herein can include replaceable fluid reservoirs (as part of the spinneret assembly or as a separate component) to allow selection of a variety of different coating/spraying materials or to refill a device after use. Specific examples of the systems, device components, and methods of use are described in more detail below.

[0026] Turning to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an example coating/spraying device 100 of the present disclosure. The device 100 generally can include a spinneret assembly 101 (e.g., a spinneret cartridge, a spinneret module, a spraying or coating apparatus or the like ) having a spinneret nozzle 102 and a spinneret cover 104, a reservoir connector 107, a reservoir 106, a high-voltage supply 108 (connectable by connector 109), one or more light sources 110, one or more sensors 112, a display 114, possible additional hardware 116, a communication interface 118, a device code 120, a processor 122, memory 124, a storage medium 126, and a database 128.

[0027] The spinneret assembly 101 can be referred to as a spraying or coating apparatus. The spinneret assembly 101 can cause a liquid contained in the reservoir 106 to be ejected or sprayed from the spinneret assembly 101 , as explained further below. As the sprayed material travels through the air (between the spinneret assembly 101 and a target surface), a solvent or liquid containing the material to be applied evaporates completely or partially, and the material is deposited onto the target surface. Examples of the formed jets are further described in relation to FIG. 3 and below.

[0028] The spinneret assembly 101 can be adjustable at any angle relative to the target surface (e.g., a collector plate, an anatomic part such as human or animal skin, and/or other suitable surface to be covered or coated). For example, the spinneret assembly 101 can be directed to produce jets that extend horizontally, vertically, or tilted in any direction. The spinneret assembly 101 can have a holder to tilt the spinneret assembly 101 at any angle, or can be handheld. Examples of the possible orientations of the spinneret assembly 101 are further described in FIGS. 4A-4D.

[0029] In some embodiments, the spinneret assembly 101 can be needleless and form multiple jets simultaneously without the influence of the capillary effect normally associated with needle-like nozzles. This facilitates more rapid production of materials compared to needle electrospinning, including micro- or nano-materials. The spinneret assembly 101 can be configured as a single array of jets or a multiarray of jets. Examples of the spinneret assembly 101 are further described with respect to the following figures.

[0030] The spinneret nozzle 102 can be a variety of suitable shapes such as circular, square, or multi-angular (hexagonal or other shape). The spinneret nozzle 102 and the spinneret cover 104 can have flat, angular, and/or curved surfaces forming channels as further described below.

[0031] The spinneret cover 104 can sit on top of the spinneret nozzle 102 creating a channel/well/crevice between the spinneret nozzle 102 and the spinneret cover 104 where the fluid or solution can enter through the reservoir connector 107. Generally, the flow of fluid into the spinneret nozzle 102 can be controlled by application of force via a stepper motor or other system that provides pressure to a plunger or barrel of a syringe-like fluid reservoir. Alternatively, the fluid flow may be controlled by a pump or other fluid movement system. The spinneret cover 104 covers the spinneret nozzle 102 partially and exposes the remaining part of the spinneret nozzle 102 for emitting the jets. The spinneret nozzle 102 and the spinneret cover 104 can have flat, angular, and/or curved surfaces forming the channels. Shims or spacers of varying thickness can be added between the spinneret nozzle 102 and the spinneret cover 104 to control the gap/channel width between them to accommodate different fluid flow rates. Further examples of spinneret configurations are described below.

[0032] The spinneret nozzle 102 and the spinneret cover 104 can be formed from a variety of materials. Generally, the spinneret nozzle 102 and the spinneret cover 104 should be formed of a conductive material to allow application of an electrical potential to the fluid to be applied to a target. For example, suitable materials may include stainless steel, copper, or graphene-based material, or other conductive materials such as conductive plastics, doped silicon, etc. In some embodiments, the spinneret nozzle 102 and/or the spinneret cover 104 can be coated with a low surface energy coating, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), diamond-like carbon (DLC), or aluminum. The spinneret cover 104 may be made of PTFE. The low surface energy materials/coatings for the spinneret nozzle 102 and the spinneret cover 104 allow the fluid to flow more freely, reducing the risk of clogging and allowing jets to be formed at a lower voltage, reducing the power consumption of the device.

[0033] The reservoir 106 can contain liquid or solution (also refer to as doping solution). The reservoir 106 can be connected with the spinneret nozzle 102 via the reservoir connector 107 (e.g., an adapter) and can feed the fluid into the spinneret nozzle 102 directly or indirectly. In some embodiments, the reservoir 106 can be a separate component from the spinneret assembly 101 , as described with respect to FIGS. 5A and 5B. It will be understood that the reservoir connector 107 may be a simple flow channel/tube or other more complicated adapter such as a Luer connector, needle/diaphragm, or threaded connection. A variety of different materials can be applied using the disclosed devices depending on the intended use. For example, for treatment of wounds or other body parts, the materials can include hydrogels of various kinds such as chitosan, alginate, polyacrylic acid (PAA) or similar polymer-based hydrogels, hyaluronic acid-based formulations, gelatin, collagen, or similar gels used in wound/cosmetic applications. Alternatively, the devices can be used to apply biodegradable plant-based polymers, ester-based polymers, or polymer derived ceramics. A variety of materials have been studied for use with electrospinning or electrospraying, and it is contemplated that any material known to be useful for and capable of application using electrospinning or electrospraying may be used, including natural polymers (such as but not limited to chitosan, collagen, silk, cellulose) and synthetic polymers (such as but not limited to polycaprolactone (PCL), poly-lactide acid (PLA), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), polyurethane (Pll)) or combinations thereof, such as natural-natural polymer, natural polymer-synthetic polymer, synthetic polymer-synthetic polymer, crosslinked polymers and polymer-inorganic materials.

[0034] The high-voltage supply 108 can apply a voltage to the spinneret nozzle 102 to form the jets. The spinneret nozzle 102 can be usually charged positively or negatively, and the target surface can be either grounded or oppositely charged to the spinneret nozzle 102. A range of suitable voltages can be used, but generally a voltage range can be no less than 5 kV and no higher than 80kV. In some configurations, the voltage can be between 10-35 kV, 10-20 kV, 15-35kV, or ranges in between.

[0035] In some cases, an electrical grounding cable can be attached to the device and can be extended and attached to the target (i.e., in the case of wound healing, the ground cable can be attached to the person receiving the spray on wound dressing). In certain embodiments, the grounding cable can incorporate an oximeter to gather patient vital statistics, as described further below. In certain embodiments the grounding cable can be retractable with spring return. The grounding cable material may in most embodiments be copper but in certain embodiments may be another conductive material. The grounding cable wire gauge may in most embodiments be 16 gauge but in certain embodiments the gauge may be in the range of 10 gauge to 28 gauge.

[0036] The one or more light sources 110 can be used to provide light guidance to the target surface. Examples of the light sources 100 can include lasers, lightemitting diodes, light lamps, or other suitable light sources that illuminate the target surface. Examples of light guidance using the light sources 110 are described in FIGS. 11A-11 D.

[0037] The one or more sensors 112 can be used to provide the light guidance or provide data (e.g., associated with the target surface). For example, the one or more sensors 112 can include proximity sensors to detect the presence of the target surface without any physical contact. The one or more sensors 112 can further include other types of sensors, such as temperature sensors, accelerometers, magnetometers, gyroscopes, global position system (GPS) sensors, biometric sensors (e.g., pulse oximeter, or other sensors to detect biometric data), or the like. [0038] In some cases, the device(s) include an indicator or alert means or mechanism to signal to a user that the target is at a desired or optimum distance from the spinneret assembly. For example, suitable alert means could include an audible system such as a beep that increases or decreases in frequency, volume, tone or character based on whether the device is too far, too close, or just the right distance away. Alternatively or additionally, the device could include an illumination means that changes in pattern, intensity, color, or other characteristics based on the distance from the target. An example light system is described further below.

[0039] The display 114 can display content (e.g., data from the sensors 112, and/or content associated with the device 110 and/or the target surface). Examples of the display 114 can include a liquid-crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode display, a touch screen or other suitable display screen. In some cases, the display can be attached to the user-facing portion of the device, as shown in FIG. 2B, or as a separate component (e.g., a remote monitor or terminal).

[0040] The hardware 116 can include any additional hardware components associated with the device 100 and other components (e.g., the components shown in FIG. 1 ) of the device 100. Examples of the hardware 116 can include a pump or motor/actuator to connected with the reservoir 106 to push fluid into the spinneret nozzle 102, piping connected with the reservoir 106 and the spinneret nozzle 102, a power source for powering the device 100, a spinneret holder to hold the spinneret nozzle 102 at different angles, mounting hardware, housing of the device 100, and other suitable hardware components associated with the device 100 and other components of the device 100.

[0041] The communication interface 118 can allow the device 100 to communicate with one or more computing devices 130 over a network 140 and/or cables (e.g., universal serial bus, or suitable communication bus and/or data cables).

The communication interface 118 can include one or more antenna, transceivers, network interfaces, communication chips, and/or other suitable hardware components associated with the communication interface 118.

[0042] The device code 120 (non-transitory, computer-readable instructions) can be stored on the storage medium 126 (e.g., a computer-readable medium) and executable by the processor 122, one or more computer systems, and/or other processing hardware. The device code 120 can include various custom -written software modules that carry out the steps/processes discussed herein, and can include, but is not limited to, instructing the sensors 112 to capture sensor data, storing and transferring relevant data, analyzing and predicting data, instructing the sensors 112 sensing adverse conditions/hazards, and/or other suitable operations. The device code 120 can be programmed using any suitable programming languages including, but not limited to, C, C++, C#, Java, Python, TensorFlow or any other suitable language. Additionally, the device code 120 can be distributed across multiple computer systems in communication with each other over a communications network, and/or stored and executed on a cloud computing platform and remotely accessed by a computer system in communication with the cloud platform. The device code 120 can communicate with the database 128, which can be stored on the same computer system as the device code 120, or on one or more other computer systems in communication with the device code 120.

[0043] The processor 122 can include any suitable single- or multiple-core microprocessor of any suitable architecture that is capable of implementing and/or executing operations of the device 100. The processor 122 can retrieve information/data from, and store information/data to, the storage medium 126 and/or the memory 124. In some embodiments, the processor 122 can be programmed to control and supervise the device 100 to receive and process information/data/instructions/controls from other components of the device 100, and/or the memory 124 based on the execution of the device 100.

[0044] The memory 124 can store computer-readable and computer-executable instructions or software for implementing and/or executing operations of the device 100.

[0045] The storage medium 126 can be a computer-readable medium including any tangible non-transitory medium for storing information in a form readable by one or more computers, such as but not limited to read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, and a non-volatile memory (e.g., electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), any other suitable semiconductor memory devices, flash memory devices, internal hard disks, removable disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROM disks, DVD- ROM disks, or any other suitable magnetic disks).

[0046] The database 128 can include various types of data, but not limited to, one or more user inputs, one or more intermediate and final outputs from various components of the device 100, as described above.

[0047] In some embodiments, the device 100 can communicate with one or more computing devices 130 via networks 140. For example, the device 100 can communicate with the computing device(s) 130 via the network(s) 140 to transfer data to the computing device(s) 130 and/or to receive data from the computing device(s) 130. The link between the device 100 and the computing device(s) 130 can be a wired or wireless link. [0048] The computing device(s) 130 can be a device for transmitting data and/or power to the device 100, receiving data from the device 100, processing data and/or displaying data, or the like, such as, but not limited to, mobile devices (e.g., mobile phones), electronic devices (e.g., computers, tablets), and/or cloud computing devices (e.g., servers). For example, data can be received through a built-in antenna in the computing device(s) 130 (e.g., mobile device), through a custom antenna coupled to the computing device(s) 130 as a USB-port dongle to serve as a communication (COM) port. The computing device(s) 130 can process data indicative of the diagnostic information using software, applications, and/or coded algorithms. The computing device(s) 130 can display the information in real-time while providing power to the device 100 via the network(s) 140.

[0049] The network(s) 140 can transmit and/or receive data and/or instructions via a network interface device/transceiver utilizing any one of a number of transfer protocols (e.g., frame relay, internet protocol (IP), transmission control protocol (TCP), user datagram protocol (UDP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), etc.). Examples of the network(s) 140 can include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a packet data network (e.g., the Internet), mobile telephone networks (e.g., cellular networks), plain old telephone (POTS) networks, wireless data networks (e.g., Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 family of standards known as Wi-Fi®, IEEE 802.16 family of standards known as WiMax®), IEEE 802.15.4 family of standards, and peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, among others. In an example, the network interface device/transceiver can include one or more physical jacks (e.g., Ethernet, coaxial, or phone jacks) or one or more antennas to connect to the network(s) 140. In an example, the network interface device/transceiver can include a plurality of antennas to wirelessly communicate using at least one of single-input multiple-output (SIMO), multiple-input multipleoutput (MIMO), or multiple-input single-output (MISO) techniques. In some embodiments, the network interface device/transceivers can be included in the device 100 and the computing device(s) 130.

[0050] It should be understood that FIG. 1 is only one potential configuration, and the device 100 of the present disclosure can be implemented using a number of different configurations.

[0051] FIGS. 2A- 2D illustrate an example electrospinning device 200 (also referred to as device 200) of the present disclosure--the device 200 being one embodiment of the device 100. The device 200 can include a communication port 202 (e.g., one embodiment of the communication interface 118) for transmitting and/or receiving data and/or powering the device 200, a trigger 208 (e.g., one component of the hardware 116) for turning on the high-voltage supply 108, a power pack 206 (e.g., one component of the hardware 116) for powering the device 200, a spinneret nozzle (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret nozzle 102), a spinneret cover 204 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret cover 104), a display 114 (e.g., one embodiment of the display 114), an oximeter 212 (e.g., one embodiment of the sensors 112), lasers 214 (e.g., one embodiment of the light sources 110). The device may also include a safety trigger to activate the low-voltage system, including the display screen, proximity sensors and guidance lights, and to prevent activation using the trigger 208 unintentionally.

[0052] FIG. 3 is an example spinneret assembly 300 of the present disclosure. The spinneret assembly 300 is one embodiment of the spinneret assembly 101 . The spinneret assembly 300 is needleless in a circular bowl shape. The spinneret assembly 300 includes a spinneret nozzle 302 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret nozzle 102) and a spinneret cover 304 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret cover 104) to emit multiple jets 306 simultaneously along the edge of the spinneret. More specific descriptions of the components of the spinneret assembly 300 are described with respect to subsequent figures.

[0053] FIGS. 4A-4D are diagrammatic illustrations of various example electrospinning devices 400A-400D (also refer to devices 400A-400D) of the present disclosure. The devices 400A-400D are embodiments of the device 100. In FIG.

4A, the device 400A includes a main frame 402 (e.g., housing), an adjustable collector 404 serves as a target surface to receive jets emitted from a spinneret assembly 406 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret assembly 101 ; in some embodiments, the collector 404 can be external to the device 400), a spinneret holder 408 (e.g., one component of the hardware 116) to hold the spinneret assembly 406, an adjustable base 410 to support and place the spinneret assembly 406 at a horizontal direction, a fixed base 412 to fix components associated with the device 400A, a power supply 418 (e.g., one component of the hardware 116) to provide a high voltage to the spinneret assembly 406, a reservoir 416 (e.g., one embodiment of the reservoir 106) to contain polymeric solution, a pump 414 (e.g., one component of the hardware 116) to pump the polymeric solution from the reservoir 416 to the inlet of the spinneret assembly 406 via a pipe 420 (e.g., one component of the hardware 116). The collector 404 can be grounded and the spinneret assembly 406 can be positively charged. The spinneret assembly 406 can emit jets upward toward the collector 404. In FIG. 4B, the collector 404 and the spinneret assembly 406 of the device 400B can be tilted and placed in parallel.

Either the collector 404 or the spinneret assembly 406 can be moved relative to each other along a direction 422 to adjust the distance between the collector 404 and the spinneret assembly 406. In FIG. 4C, the collector 404 and the spinneret assembly 406 of the device 400C can be placed vertically. Either the collector 404 or the spinneret assembly 406 can be moved relative to each other along the direction 422 to adjust the distance between the collector 404 and the spinneret assembly 406. In FIG. 4D, the collector 404 and the spinneret assembly 406 of the device 400D can be placed horizontally. Either the collector 404 or the spinneret assembly 406 can be moved relative to each other along a direction 424 to adjust the distance between the collector 404 and the spinneret assembly 406. The spinneret assembly 406 can emit jets downward toward the collector 404.

[0054] As noted previously, the coating/spraying devices described herein can include handheld portable devices, e.g., for use in a battlefield, emergency room, or other situation where mobility, small size, and quick, convenient use are important. Such devices are shown in FIG. 2A-2D, which illustrate one possible hand-held device. Alternatively, the devices may include fixed systems, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4D. It will be understood that the devices of FIGS. 4A-4D may vary in size and may include small devices (e.g., for lab or research use) or larger devices for more rapid and scaled manufacturing.

[0055] In some cases, the spinneret assembly will be provided as a replaceable spinneret assembly. For example, FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate the portable coating/spraying device 200 (also referred as a device 200, e.g., one embodiment of the device 100) containing a spinneret assembly 450 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret assembly 101) and associated components. As shown, the spinneret assembly 450 can be inserted into the device 200. The spinneret assembly 450 can be replaceable or permanently/integrally connected to the device 200 depending on the application. FIG. 5B is a diagrammatic representation of the device 200 with the spinneret assembly 450. As shown the spinneret assembly 450 can be placed in or attached to the device 200. As illustrated in FIG. 1 , similarly, the spinneret assembly 450 can include the spinneret nozzle 102 and the spinneret cover 104. In some cases, the fluid reservoir 106 can be contained in the spinneret assembly 450 and can be therefore replaced along with the spinneret assembly 450 if the spinneret assembly 450 is replaced. In other cases, the reservoir 106 can be a separate component from the spinneret assembly 450 so that the fluid reservoir 106 and the spinneret assembly 450 can be independently replaced.

[0056] The spinneret assembly 450 can include an electrical connection 109 (FIG. 1 ) and a securing mechanism to hold the spinneret assembly 450 in place. The electrical connection 109 can be configured to form an electrical connection with the power source of the hardware 116. Similarly, the spinneret assembly 450 can contain a fluid adapter 107, which can connect to the fluid reservoir 106 either as an integral part of the spinneret assembly 450 or a separately replaceable fluid reservoir 106.

[0057] Several different configurations can be contemplated for the spinneret assemblies 101. As explained above, the spinneret assembly 101 may include a multi-jet device configured to operate effectively in a multi-directional manner, facilitating hand-held application and use. In some cases, the disclosed spinneret assembly 101 can be needleless or multi-needle, but it will be appreciated that the disclosed multi-needle spinneret assembly 101 could be reduced to single needle or needleless configurations.

[0058] Example needleless spinneret assemblies 500 are illustrated in FIGS 6A- 6C, 7A-7B, 8, and 9A-9B. In FIGS. 6A-6C, 7A-7B, 8, and 9A-9B, the spinneret nozzle is labeled 504 (with 504A in FIGS. 6A-6C; 504B in FIGS 7A-7B; 504C in FIG. 8; and 504D in FIGS. 9A-9B). Similarly, the spinneret covers are labeled as 508A- 508D.

[0059] The spinneret assembly 500 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret assembly 101 ) can include an electrically conductive spinneret nozzle 504 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret nozzle 102) and a spinneret cover 508 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret cover 104). As illustrated, the spinneret nozzle 504 can include a depression 520 (520A-520D) in which the spinneret cover 508 can be positioned to form a channel region 510 (510A-510E) between the spinneret cover 508 and the spinneret nozzle 504 and wherein the channel region 510 can be luidly connected through the spinneret nozzle 504 to an adapter 502 (e.g., one embodiment of the reservoir connector 107) and the channel region 510 can have an opening configured to allow flow of fluid through the channel region 510 towards an external target.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 6A, fluid (polymer solution or doping solution) can be fed into the spinneret nozzle 504A through the fluid adapter 502A thereby fluidly connecting the channel region 510A to the fluid reservoir 106 (shown in FIG. 1 ) and allowing spray of the fluid through multiple jets. The channel region 510A between the spinneret nozzle 504A and the spinneret cover 508A will have a substantially uniform width (distance between nozzle and cover) of approximately 150 to 1500 microns (in some cases, 150-500 microns or 200-350 microns). The spinneret nozzle 504A can include a depression 520A in which the spinneret cover 508A can be positioned to form a channel region 510A between the first spinneret cover 508A and the spinneret nozzle 504A. In some cases, the spinneret assembly 500A can contain an adapter 502A to allow modification of the channel width, depending on the fluid to be used or characteristics of the jets to be produced (e.g., volume, speed, viscosity). The adapter 502A may include spaces or shims that can be placed in the spinneret assembly 500A, or a threaded or friction fit connection.

[0061] In some cases, the spinneret assembly 500 can include two or more spinneret covers, with a depression formed in a first spinneret cover in which the second spinneret cover can be positioned to form a channel region between the two spinneret covers, thereby forming two or more concentric rings of jets to increase output. Such embodiments are illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7B and 8.

[0062] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate another embodiment of a multi-jet spinneret assembly 500B according to exemplary embodiments. The spinneret assembly 500B can include a spinneret nozzle 504B, a first spinneret cover 508B, a second spinneret cover 508C, a first channel region 510B, a second channel region 510C, and other components (e.g., an anti-leak ring 512 or other suitable components as described above). The first channel region 510B can be formed between the first spinneret cover 508B and the spinneret nozzle 504B and wherein the channel region 510B can be fluidly connected through the spinneret nozzle 504B to an adapter 502B and first channel region 510B can have an opening configured to allow flow of fluid through the channel region 510B towards an external target. The second channel region 510C can be formed between the first spinneret cover 508B and the second spinneret cover 508C and wherein the channel region 510C can be fluidly connected the adapter 502B having circumferential holes 514 and second channel region 510C can have an opening configured to allow flow of fluid through the channel region 510C towards an external target. The spinneret nozzle 504B can include a first depression 520C in which the first spinneret cover 508B can be positioned to form a channel region 510B between the first spinneret cover 508B and the spinneret nozzle 504B. The first spinneret cover 508B can include a second depression 520C in which the second spinneret cover 508C can be positioned to form a channel region 510C between the first spinneret cover 508B and the second spinneret cover 508C.

[0063] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of a multi-jet spinneret assembly 500C according to exemplary embodiments. Compared with FIG. 7B, similarly, the spinneret assembly 500C can include a spinneret nozzle 504C, a first spinneret cover 508D, a second spinneret cover 508E, a channel region 51 OF, a second channel region 510E, an adapter 502C and other components as described herein. The first channel region 510D and the second channel region 510E can have different shapes or cross-sectional geometries, which can be spherical, curved, angular, or the like.

[0064] FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate another embodiment of a multi-jet spinneret assembly 500D according to exemplary embodiments. The spinneret assembly 500D can include a spinneret nozzle 504D, a spinneret cover 508F, a channel region 51 OF, and other components as described herein. The spinneret nozzle 504D and the spinneret cover 508F can include conductive materials. The spinneret cover 508F can have a spherical or partially spherical or spherical-like body that can be positioned into a depression 520D to form the channel region 51 OF.

[0065] It will be understood that each of FIGS. 6A-6C, 7A-7B, 8, and 9A-9B illustrate various shapes or cross-sectional geometries of the channel regions 510, which can be spherical, curved, angular, or other configurations shown in the figures. [0066] In another embodiment, the spinneret assembly 1000 (e.g., one embodiment of the device 101 ) can include a multi-needle array as illustrated in FIGS. 10A-10D. As shown, the spinneret assembly 1000 can include a spinneret nozzle 1002 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret nozzle 102) having multiple needles 1010 connected to individual fluid reservoirs 1020 (one embodiment of the reservoir 106, e.g., multiple modified syringes holding electrospinning/spraying solution). To provide a voltage, in place of the spinneret nozzle 1002 (e.g., a conductive nozzle), the spinneret nozzle 1002 can include a conductive plate 1030 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106 of high-voltage supply 108, e.g., a voltage plate) proximate the needle openings with an electrically conductive tab. The conductive plate 1030 can be covered by a cover plate 1032.

[0067] In needleless or needled embodiments, the polymer solution/fluid may be in a compressible reservoir (e.g., one embodiment of the reservoir 106, such as a tube with a nozzle and piston or bulb for sucking in and ejecting the polymer liquid) or other suitable reservoirs. For needleless spinneret assemblies (FIGS. 6, 7, 8, 9), a single compressible reservoir may be fixed to a single needleless spinneret assembly to form an integrated disposable spinneret assembly. For the multi-needle spinneret assembly (FIG. 10), a single compressible reservoir will have an individual needle (having a gauge in the range between 15 gauge and 21 gauge) held in a multi-needle solution reservoir holder 1040 (FIGS. 10A and 10B).

[0068] It will be understood that only one reservoir is shown in FIGS. 10A and 10C for illustration purpose. It will be understood that multiple cartridges can be used. For example, the multi-needle solution reservoir holder 1040 may hold anywhere from two (2) compressible reservoirs/needles to one hundred and twenty (120) for example. Needle spacing (center-to-center distance) will be no less than five (5) millimeters and no greater than twenty (20) millimeters (e.g., around ten (10) millimeters).

[0069] FIGS. 11 A-11 D illustrate an example light guidance system for targeting an area to be coated or sprayed. As shown in FIGS. 11 A-11 D, four light lines 602A- 602D can be generated on/near a target area to find an optimum range. In FIG. 11A, when the device 100 is too far from the target area (e.g., a wound site, or an area to be covered/coated), the two vertical light lines 602A and 602B can flash and separate from each other with a distance greater than a distance threshold indicative of an optimum distance between the device 100 and the target area. The two horizontal light lines 602C and 602D can flash. In FIG. 11 B, as the device 100 moves close to the target area, the distance between the vertical light lines 602A and 602B can be reduced, but still greater than the distance threshold. The four light lines 602A-602D can still flash. In FIG. 11 C, if the optimum distance between the device 100 and target area is reached, the distance between the vertical light lines 602A and 602B can be reduced to be less than the distance threshold. The four light lines 602A-602D can stop flashing. In FIG. 11 D, if the device 100 moves too close to the target area, the four light lines 602A-602D can flash again. The vertical light lines 602A and 602B can separate from each other again, and the distance between the vertical light lines 602A and 602B can be increased to be greater than the distance threshold.

[0070] It will be understood that the light system is one indicator mechanism, but other changes may be used such as changes in color or intensity to indicate proper distance.

[0071] FIG. 12 is a diagram example of electrospinning system 700 of the present disclosure. The system 700 can include a plurality of computation servers 702a- 702n, a plurality of data storage servers 704a-704n, the device 100, a plurality of user devices 710, and a communication network 708. The device 100, the computation servers 702a-702n, the data storage servers 704a-704n, and the user devices 710 can communicate over a communication network 708. [0072] The computation servers 702a-702n can communicate with the device 100 and the user devices 710 via the communication network 708. The computation servers 702a-702n can be remote cloud-based computers/servers, and/or networkbased on computers/servers. In some embodiments, the computation servers 702a- 702n can include the device code 120 and can include at least one processor and memory for executing the computer instructions and methods described above (which can be embodied as the device code 120). The computation servers 702a- 702n can host one or more applications or websites, including the device code 120 described herein, accessed by the device 100 and/or the user devices 710, and/or facilitates access to the content of the data storage servers 704a-704n.

[0073] The data storage servers 704a-704n can store and exchange data with the device 100. The data storage servers 704a-704n can also store instructions (or code) for use by the device 100, the computation servers 702a-702n, and/or the user devices 710. The data storage servers 704a-704n and computation servers 702a- 702n may be located at one or more geographically distributed locations from each other or from the device 100 and/or the user devices 710.

[0074] The user devices 710 may include, but are not limited to, work stations, computers, general purpose computers, Internet appliances, hand-held devices, wireless devices, portable devices, wearable computers, cellular or mobile phones, intelligent virtual assistants (e.g., a software agent that can perform tasks or services for an individual based on commands or questions), portable digital assistants (PDAs), smart phones, tablets, ultrabooks, netbooks, laptops, desktops, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, mini-computers, and the like. [0075] The communication network 708 may include Bluetooth, RFID, NFC, GPSbased network, satellite-based network, an ad hoc network, an intranet, an extranet, a virtual private network (VPN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN (WLAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wireless wide area network (WWAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a portion of the Internet, a portion of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a cellular telephone network, a wireless network, a WiFi network, a WiMax network, any other type of network, or a combination of two or more such network.

[0076] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an example of a machine 800 (e.g., the device 100 of FIG. 1 , the device 200, and the devices 400A-400D) upon which any of one or more techniques (e.g., methods) may be performed of the presented disclosure. In other embodiments, the machine 800 may operate as a standalone device or may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine 800 may operate in the capacity of a server machine, a client machine, or both in server-client network environments. In an example, the machine 800 may act as a peer machine in Wi-Fi direct, peer-to-peer (P2P), cellular, (or other distributed) network environments. The machine 1000 may be a server, a personal computer (PC), a smart home device, a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile telephone, a wearable computer device, a web appliance, a network router, a switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine, such as a base station. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term “machine” shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein, such as cloud computing, software as a service (SaaS), or other computer cluster configurations. [0077] The machine (e.g., computer system) 800 may include a hardware processor 802 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a hardware processor core, or any combination thereof), a main memory 804 and a static memory 806, some or all of which may communicate with each other via an interlink (e.g., bus) 808. The machine 800 may further include a power management device 832, a graphics display device 810, an alphanumeric input device 812 (e.g., a keyboard), and a user interface (Ul) navigation device 814 (e.g., a mouse). In an example, the graphics display device 810, alphanumeric input device 812, and Ul navigation device 814 may be a touch screen display. The machine 800 may additionally include a storage device (i.e. , drive unit) 816, a signal generation device 818, a device code 120 (e.g., capable of performing operations of the device 100), a network interface device/transceiver 820 coupled to antenna(s) 830, and one or more sensors 828, such as a biometric sensor, a global positioning system (GPS) sensor, a compass, an accelerometer, or other biometric and/or motion sensor. The machine 800 may include an output controller 834, such as a serial (e.g., universal serial bus (USB), parallel, or other wired or wireless (e.g., infrared (IR), near field communication (NFC), etc.) connection to communicate with or control one or more peripheral devices (e.g., a printer, a card reader, etc.)). The machine 800 can run any operating system 836, such as any of the versions of the Microsoft® Windows® operating systems, the different releases of the Unix and Linux operating systems, any version of the MacOS® for Macintosh computers, any embedded operating system, any real-time operating system, any open source operating system, any proprietary operating system, any operating systems for mobile computing devices, or any other operating system capable of running on the computing device and performing the operations described herein. In exemplary embodiments, the operating system 816 can be run in native mode or emulated mode. In an exemplary embodiment, the operating system 816 can be run on one or more cloud machine instances.

[0078] The storage device 816 may include a machine readable medium 822 on which is stored one or more sets of data structures or instructions 824 (e.g., software) embodying or utilized by any one or more of the techniques or functions described herein. The instructions 824 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 804, within the static memory 806, or within the hardware processor 802 during execution thereof by the machine 800. In an example, one or any combination of the hardware processor 802, the main memory 844, the static memory 806, or the storage device 816 may constitute machine- readable media.

[0079] While the machine-readable medium 822 is illustrated as a single medium, the term "machine-readable medium" may include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) configured to store the one or more instructions 824.

[0080] Various embodiments may be implemented fully or partially in software and/or firmware. This software and/or firmware may take the form of instructions contained in or on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. Those instructions may then be read and executed by one or more processors to enable performance of the operations described herein. The instructions may be in any suitable form, such as but not limited to source code, compiled code, interpreted code, executable code, static code, dynamic code, and the like. Such a computer- readable medium may include any tangible non-transitory medium for storing information in a form readable by one or more computers, such as but not limited to read only memory (ROM); random access memory (RAM); magnetic disk storage media; optical storage media; a flash memory, etc.

[0081] The term “machine-readable medium” may include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instructions for execution by the machine 800 and that cause the machine 800 to perform any one or more of the techniques of the present disclosure, or that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying data structures used by or associated with such instructions. Non-limiting machine- readable medium examples may include solid-state memories and optical and magnetic media. In an example, a massed machine-readable medium includes a machine-readable medium with a plurality of particles having resting mass. Specific examples of massed machine-readable media may include non-volatile memory, such as semiconductor memory devices (e.g., electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM)) and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks and removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD- ROM disks.

[0082] The instructions 824 may further be transmitted or received over a communications network 826 using a transmission medium via the network interface device/transceiver 820 utilizing any one of a number of transfer protocols (e.g., frame relay, internet protocol (IP), transmission control protocol (TCP), user datagram protocol (UDP), hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP), etc.). Example communications networks may include the communication network 908, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a packet data network (e.g., the Internet), mobile telephone networks (e.g., cellular networks), plain old telephone (POTS) networks, wireless data networks (e.g., Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 602.11 family of standards known as Wi-Fi®, IEEE 602.16 family of standards known as WiMax®), IEEE 602.15.4 family of standards, and peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, among others. In an example, the network interface device/transceiver 820 may include one or more physical jacks (e.g., Ethernet, coaxial, or phone jacks) or one or more antennas to connect to the communications network 826. In an example, the network interface device/transceiver 820 may include a plurality of antennas to wirelessly communicate using at least one of single-input multiple-output (SIMO), multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), or multiple-input single-output (MISO) techniques. The term “transmission medium” shall be taken to include any intangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instructions for execution by the machine 800 and includes digital or analog communications signals or other intangible media to facilitate communication of such software.

[0083] FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate an embodiment of a universal coating/spraying device 1400 (also referred to as a device 1400) having a disposable spinneret assembly 1420. The device 1400 can be one embodiment of the device 100. The device 1400 can include the disposable spinneret assembly 1420 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret assembly 101 ). The disposable spinneret assembly 1420 can be inserted (e.g., clipped) into the front of a main body 1410 of the device 1400. The disposable spinneret assembly 1420 can include two disposable reservoirs 1455 containing liquid 1452 (e.g., one embodiment of the reservoir 106), a needleless spinneret nozzle 1450 (e.g., one embodiment of the spinneret nozzle 102), a pusher plate 1454 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106), a screw 1456 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106), and other components. The main body 1410 can include a motor 1480 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106, e.g., a linear stepper motor or the like), an activation button 1470 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106), a housing body 1412 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106), a power block 1414 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106), a motor control printed circuit board (PCB) 1430 (e.g., one component of the processor 122), a battery 1416 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106), an end cover 1418 (e.g., one component of the hardware 106).

[0084] Having thus described the system and method in detail, it is to be understood that the foregoing description is not intended to limit the spirit or scope thereof. It will be understood that the embodiments of the present disclosure described herein are merely exemplary and that a person skilled in the art can make any variations and modification without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. All such variations and modifications, including those discussed above, are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

[0085] In describing exemplary embodiments, specific terminology is used for the sake of clarity. For purposes of description, each specific term is intended to at least include all technical and functional equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. Additionally, in some instances where a particular exemplary embodiment includes multiple system elements, device components or method steps, those elements, components, or steps may be replaced with a single element, component, or step. Likewise, a single element, component or step may be replaced with multiple elements, components or steps that serve the same purpose. Moreover, while exemplary embodiments have been shown and described with references to particular embodiments thereof, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various substitutions and alterations in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further still, other embodiments, functions and advantages are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0086] Also contemplated are methods of using the disclosed devices. The methods can include assembling one or more devices, positioning the device(s) near a target, and activating the device. The methods can also include selecting and/or replacing a spinneret assembly and assembling a device by replacing the spinneret assembly. The spinneret assembly may have an integral fluid reservoir, or the method can include separately installing or replacing a fluid reservoir.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS

1 . A spraying or coating apparatus, comprising: an adapter for fluidly connecting with a reservoir containing a coating solution; a spinneret assembly, comprising: a spinneret nozzle fluidly connected to the adapter; and a spinneret cover, wherein the spinneret nozzle includes a depression in which the spinneret cover is positioned to form a channel region between the spinneret cover and nozzle and wherein the channel region is fluidly connected through the spinneret nozzle to the adapter and has an opening configured to allow flow of fluid through the channel region towards an external target; and a voltage supply electrically coupled to the spinneret assembly.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the channel region comprises an adjustable gap between the spinneret nozzle and the spinneret cover.

3. The apparatus of any of claims 1 or 2, wherein the spinneret nozzle comprises a body portion having a front side and a back side, and wherein the depression comprises a region of the front side.

4. The apparatus of any of claims 1 -3, wherein the depression has at least one of a concave, partial spherical, or polygonal cross-section.

5. The apparatus of any of claims 1 -4, further comprising at least one additional spinneret cover, wherein the additional spinneret cover is positioned to form an additional channel region between the spinneret cover and additional spinneret cover.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the additional channel region is fluidly connectable to the reservoir or a different reservoir.

7. The apparatus of any of claims 1 -6, further comprising an outer body wall surrounding the apparatus.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a handle extending from the outer body wall.

9. The apparatus of any of claims 1 -8, further comprising: one or more light sources to illuminate an area; one or more sensors to capture sensor data from the illuminated area; a processing circuitry coupled to a memory, the processing circuitry configured to: receive the sensor data; and determine a desired distance between the apparatus and the illuminated area.

10. The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a notification system configured to alert a user if the apparatus is positioned at a desired distance from a target object.

11 . The apparatus of any of claims 1 -10, further comprising a means for adjusting a size of the channel region between the spinneret cover and spinneret nozzle.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the means comprises a threaded or friction-fit connector.

13. The apparatus of any of claims 1 -12, further comprising an actuation mechanism for controlling operation of the spinneret.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises a trigger on a handle region.

15. The apparatus of any of claims 1 -14, further comprising a fluid reservoir reversibly attachable to the adapter.

16. The apparatus of any of claims 1 -15, wherein the spinneret nozzle comprises a conductive material.

15. A spinneret assembly, comprising: an adapter for fluidly connecting with a reservoir containing a coating solution; an electrically conductive spinneret nozzle; a spinneret cover, wherein the spinneret nozzle includes a depression in which the spinneret cover is positioned to form a channel region between the spinneret cover and spinneret nozzle and wherein the channel region is fluidly connected through the spinneret nozzle to the adapter and has an opening configured to allow flow of fluid through the channel region towards an external target; an outer wall surrounding a portion of the spinneret assembly to form a spinneret cassette that is replaceable and attachable to a spraying or coating apparatus; and and an electrical connector in contact with the spinneret nozzle for providing an electrical potential to the spinneret nozzle.

16. The spinneret assembly of claim 1 , wherein the channel region comprises an adjustable gap between the spinneret nozzle and the spinneret cover.

17. The spinneret assembly of any of claims 15 or 16, wherein the spinneret nozzle comprises a body portion having a front side and a back side, and wherein the depression comprises a region of the front side.

18. The spinneret assembly of any of claims 15-17, wherein the depression has at least one of a concave, partial spherical, or polygonal cross-section.

19. The spinneret assembly of any of claims 15-18, further comprising at least one additional spinneret cover, wherein the additional spinneret cover is positioned to form an additional channel region between the spinneret cover and additional spinneret cover.

20. The spinneret assembly of claim 19, wherein the additional channel region is fluidly connectable to the reservoir or a different reservoir.

21 . The spinneret assembly of any of claims 15-20, further comprising a means for adjusting a size of the channel region between the spinneret cover and nozzle.

22. The spinneret assembly of claim 21 , wherein the means comprises a threaded or friction-fit connector.

23. A multi-needle spinneret assembly, comprising: an outer body portion encasing the spinneret assembly and including a connector mechanism for replaceably securing the spinneret assembly in a deposition apparatus; at least one electrical connector attached to or extending through the body portion for electrically coupling the spinneret assembly to a voltage source; a group of spinneret needles contained in the body portion and each including a narrow tip portion extending through a front side of the body portion and each including an adapter portion for connecting with a fluid reservoir; and a voltage plate formed of a conductive material adjacent the tip portion of the group of spinneret needles, the voltage plate electrically couple to the at least one electrical connector.

24. The spinneret assembly of claim 23, further comprising at least one fluid reservoir fluidly coupled to the spinneret needles;

25. The spinneret assembly of claim 23, further comprising a group of fluid reservoirs each fluidly coupled to at least one of the spinneret needles.