When we came up with the idea of having two different types of bacteria work together to break down dihydrotestosterone (DHT), we were faced with a serious
challenge. We suspected that consumers would be discouraged by a product requiring the application of two different types of bacteria and,in addition, we were hesitant about the safety repercussions.
While our project involved using genetically engineered bacteria for two purposes, and therefore two types of bacteria, we wanted to find a way to prevent the Escherichia coli
from reaching the consumer's scalp, in order to increase the chances of the Bacillus subtilis's survival, and to minimize
side effects that may occur with the use of such a product.
The solution was found through consulting with multiple academics and an industrial engineer. After the final prototype was printed, we conducted
a focus group survey about the comfort and efficiency of using the comb.
The Designs
Prototype #1
We started from a very basic design, focusing on the initial solution for applying the formula onto the user's scalp.
At first, it looks very simple- like nothing special characterizes it.
However, within, the pathways are structured in such a way to
uniformly distribute the treatment formula to the scalp. Simultaneously,
the comb massages the scalp, removing excessive fat and helping restoring the hair follicle growth.
Prototype #2
We directed our focus on improving the flow through the pathways. We moved the entranceway for the treatment formula to the middle and started considering about a comfortable way for the user to hold the comb.
Prototype #3
A mechanism for even flow was used. To obtain even flow in each pathway and comb tooth,
we consulted with Dr. Moran Bercovici from Technion's Microfluidic Laboratory. The result was a specially designed tube geometry.
From the syringe entry at the top of the comb, each pathway splits, resulting in 16 parallel, even-flow, square tubes at the fluid exit to the scalp.
For flow equations, we selected a viscosity, bearing in mind that our formula must stay on the scalp and, of course, must not reach to the user's eyes and clothes.
With the help of industrial engineer Ms. Lotem Shmuel, a handle was designed and added to the comb for extra comfort in use.
Prototype #4
The final prototype for the iGEM 2015 competition
The final model has a unique, aesthetic design. It can be easily adjusted to fit any hand size.
After fulfilling the criteria for efficiency and cleanness, we turned our attention to the aesthetic demands as well as accommodating the responses we received from our focus group (see results below).
From the first draft to the final product presented to you, the comb planning process focused on the ease of use, together with an innovative
and eye-catching design which intrigues the user from first sight.
Focus Group Survey
Efficiency of the Comb
Conclusion
After much though and effort, the final comb apparatus presented for the competition was the result.
The comb provides clear and defined benefits compared to a topical mixture applied with the hands or gloves:
Cleanliness- The comb and syringe combination allows the consumer to apply the product, whilst never having to touch the bacteria.
Reusable-The reusable comb can be sterilized with ethanol between uses, while the syringe can be sterilized with ethanol as well and then discarded. The result
is a relatively environmentally friendly product.
Uniform application-The comb apparaturs, along with the syringe, offers an integrative solution to combining the components of our formula, while allowing for comfortable
and uniform application on the scalp of the consumer. This helps ensure that each hair follicle is reached, making our product as effective as possible.
Efficient-The scalp is covered by a thin, oily layer of fatty deposits, as well as dead skin cells, which must be penetrated in order to reach the hair follicle. Our comb offers a gentle way to overcome
this layer, hopefully leading to better penetration of the 3a-HSD protein into the hair follicle. Additionally, stimulation of the scalp has been found to increase blood flow
to the area, helping encourage hair growth and hair follicle restoration. The comb teeth can provide this stimulation.
