Smart hydrogel for biomedical applications: <scp>TRIZ</scp> patent literature review

Abstract Smart hydrogels are widely used in biomedical applications, including drug delivery, tissue engineering and biosensing, due to their ability to respond to stimuli such as pH, temperature and biochemical signals. However, challenges such as scalability, cost and biocompatibility limit their broader adoption. The theory of inventive problem solving–patent literature review (TRIZ‐PLR) provides a structured methodology to analyse patents, identify technological gaps and propose innovative solutions. This study applies TRIZ‐PLR to hydrogel patents, revealing trends in multi‐responsive and 4D‐printed hydrogels. Comparative analysis of fabrication methods highlights their advantages and limitations, demonstrating TRIZ‐PLR's role in optimising material selection, enhancing scalability and improving therapeutic efficacy. Case studies illustrate the integration of AI‐driven hydrogel design, bio‐inspired materials and sustainable production strategies to enhance biomedical applications. The findings suggest that TRIZ‐PLR facilitates innovation by resolving technological contradictions, enabling more efficient and cost‐effective hydrogel solutions. Future research should focus on leveraging smart materials, artificial intelligence and sustainable design principles to enhance hydrogel performance and adaptability. By applying TRIZ‐PLR insights, researchers can accelerate the transition of hydrogel technologies from laboratory research to real‐world medical applications. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).