This technology is a device for the automated and uniform fabrication of braided nanofiber-based scaffolds.
Woven nanofiber-based scaffolds possess mechanical properties that are favorable for ligament and tendon tissue engineering applications. However, current approaches to construct braided or woven nanofiber-based scaffolds require manual methods, which are limited by their lack of reproducibility and consistency. Although commercial braiding machines are available for textiles, they are incompatible with nanofibers due to the delicate nature and small size of these materials. Thus, there is currently no method to fabricate braided nanofiber-based scaffolds in an automated and consistent manner.
This device uses a rotating gear and switching mechanism to enable rotational and linear motions to maneuver unbraided nanofiber bundles into the desired braid pattern, such as a three-part braid. This technology does not require pre-spooling of the nanofiber bundles onto bobbins prior to braiding. Through automation of the fabrication process, consistent braid properties (such as braiding angle and the braid pattern) are achieved, thereby resulting in braided nanofiber-based scaffolds with reproducible mechanical properties, porosity, and responses of seeded cells.
A working prototype of this device has been constructed.
Patent Pending
IR CU18029
Licensing Contact: Joan Martinez