Microneedle array and mold forming the same

Abstract

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a microneedle array mold is disclosed, comprising a lower mold and an upper mold disposed above the lower mold. The lower mold of the microneedle array mold comprises a plate forming an upper surface and a plurality of plate grooves formed concavely on the upper surface of the plate, each having a horizontal cross-sectional area that decreases as it goes downward. The upper mold of the microneedle array mold comprises an upper mold body positioned above the plate and a plurality of upper mold protrusions extending from the upper mold body toward one of the corresponding plate grooves.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a microneedle array and a mold for forming the same. Background Technology

[0003] Microneedles are fine needles with a length and diameter sufficient to penetrate the epidermal layer of the skin, and they can perform the function of transdermal drug delivery while causing almost no pain during use.

[0004] A microneedle array refers to a collection of these microneedles and is generally utilized in the form of a patch attached to the skin.

[0005] A microneedle array mold is a die for forming a microneedle array containing multiple microneedles, and precise dimensional design is required to implement the delicate functions of the microneedle array. Prior art literature

[0007] (Patent Document 0001) KR 10-0869277 B1 The problem to be solved

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a microneedle array that is precisely designed while forming various shapes.

[0009] The present invention aims to provide a microneedle array mold designed with precise specifications.

[0010] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a microneedle array may be disclosed, comprising: a base having a constant thickness in the upper and lower directions; a tip protruding downward from the base and having a horizontal cross-sectional area that decreases as it goes downward; and a hollow portion formed by penetrating the base and being recessed into the tip, wherein, with respect to the upper and lower directions, the length of the hollow portion is less than or equal to the sum of the length of the base and the length of the tip.

[0013] The above microneedle array may further include a coating layer that is laminated on the upper surface of the base and blocks the top of the hollow portion.

[0014] The tip includes an attachment forming the bottom of the tip, and the attachment may be positioned below the base and the hollow portion.

[0015] The above tips are formed in plurality, and the plurality of tips are sequentially arranged in at least one of the length direction and the width direction, and the width direction and the length direction may intersect each other and be parallel to the lower surface of the base.

[0016] The above tip can form the shape of a wedge extended in the longitudinal direction.

[0017] The above microneedle array includes a plurality of tips arranged sequentially in a radial manner, each serving as the tip, and the attachment can form the shape of a ring.

[0018] The above plurality of tips can form a concentric circle.

[0019] The above base, the above tip, and the above hollow portion can satisfy the following mathematical formula 3, and

[0020] [Mathematical Formula 3]

[0021]

[0022] (Here, HH: length of the hollow portion, HT: length of the tip, HB: length of the base, WH: width of the bottom of the hollow portion, WT: width of the top of the tip)

[0023] The length of the hollow portion, the length of the tip, and the length of the base are measured based on the vertical direction, and the width of the bottom of the hollow portion and the width of the top of the tip can be measured based on the horizontal direction.

[0024] The above base, the above tip, and the above hollow portion can satisfy the following mathematical formula 7, and

[0025] [Mathematical Formula 7]

[0026]

[0027] (Here, HH: length of the hollow portion, HT: length of the tip, HB: length of the base, WH: width of the bottom of the hollow portion, WT: width of the top of the tip)

[0028] The length of the hollow portion, the length of the tip, and the length of the base are measured based on the vertical direction, and the width of the bottom of the hollow portion and the width of the top of the tip can be measured based on the horizontal direction.

[0029] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a microneedle array mold may be disclosed, comprising: a lower mold; and an upper mold disposed above the lower mold, wherein the lower mold comprises a plate forming the upper surface of the lower mold; and a plurality of plate grooves formed concavely on the upper surface of the plate, each having a horizontal cross-sectional area that decreases as it goes downward, and the upper mold comprises an upper mold body positioned above the plate; and a plurality of upper mold protrusions extending from the upper mold body toward one corresponding of the plurality of plate grooves.

[0030] Each of the above plurality of plate grooves extends in the longitudinal direction, and the above plurality of plate grooves are arranged sequentially in the width direction, and the width direction can intersect the length direction as a horizontal direction.

[0031] Each of the above plurality of plate grooves forms the shape of a ring, and the plurality of plate grooves can be arranged sequentially in a radial manner.

[0032] The above plurality of plate grooves can form a concentric circle.

[0033] Each of the plurality of upper mold protrusions extends in the longitudinal direction, and the plurality of upper mold protrusions are arranged sequentially in the width direction, wherein the width direction is parallel to the upper surface of the upper mold body and may intersect with the longitudinal direction.

[0034] The above microneedle array mold may each form a ring shape as an upper mold protrusion and include a plurality of upper mold protrusions arranged sequentially in a radial manner.

[0035] The above plurality of upper molds can form concentric circles.

[0036] The upper mold may further include a coating layer laminated on each of the plurality of upper mold protrusions. Effects of the invention

[0038] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a microneedle array that is precisely designed while forming various shapes can be provided.

[0039] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a mold for forming a microneedle array designed to precise specifications may be provided.

[0040] Further scopes of the applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. However, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention are clearly understood by those skilled in the art, specific embodiments, such as the detailed description and preferred embodiments of the present invention, should be understood as being given merely as examples. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0042] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a microneedle array. Figure 2 is a diagram showing a microneedle array including a cone-shaped tip. Figure 3 is a diagram showing a microneedle array including wedge-shaped tips. Figure 4 is a diagram showing a microneedle array including ring-shaped tips. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the length of each component of the microneedle array illustrated in Figure 1. Figure 6 is a drawing showing a part of the microneedle array illustrated in Figure 5, in which the width direction length of the hollow part is set as the independent variable and the vertical direction length of the hollow part is shown as the dependent variable. Figure 7 is a drawing showing a part of the microneedle array illustrated in Figure 5, in which the vertical length of the hollow part is set as the independent variable and the width length of the hollow part is shown as the dependent variable. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the appearance of a lower mold according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a plan view of a part of the lower mold, showing a lower mold in which the plate groove is conical in shape. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a lower mold in which the plate groove is wedge-shaped, as part of a plan view of a part of the lower mold. FIG. 11 is a plan view of a part of the lower mold, showing the lower mold in which the plate groove is in the shape of a ring. FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a portion of a cross-section of the lower mold shown in FIG. 8, cut along A1-A2. FIG. 13 is a drawing showing the appearance of an upper mold according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an upper mold according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an upper mold including a ring-shaped upper mold protrusion. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the formation of a microneedle array by pressing the upper mold against the lower mold after the lower mold is filled with a polymer material. Figure 17 is a flowchart showing a method for manufacturing a microneedle array. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0043] The embodiments of the present invention are provided to more fully explain the invention to those skilled in the art, and the following embodiments may be modified in various different forms, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0044] For convenience of explanation, some embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to exemplary drawings. In labeling the components of each drawing, the same components are indicated by the same reference numeral whenever possible, even if they are shown in different drawings.

[0045] Terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0046] The terms used herein are for describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular form may include the plural form unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0047] Furthermore, expressions such as “comprise, include,” “consist of,” and “have” used to describe and assert the content of the invention should be interpreted in a non-exclusive manner. Unless specifically stated otherwise, they imply that the relevant component may be inherent, and thus should be interpreted as allowing for the inclusion of additional components rather than excluding other components.

[0048] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the embodiments of the present invention. These terms are used merely to distinguish the components from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the components is not limited by the terms used.

[0049] Where it is stated that a component is 'connected' or 'joined' to another component, it should be understood that while the component may be directly connected or joined to the other component, another component may also be 'connected' or 'joined' between the component and the other component.

[0050] Spatial terms such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," and "upper" may be used to facilitate understanding of one element or feature depicted in the drawings and another element or feature. These spatial terms are intended to facilitate understanding of the invention according to various process or usage conditions of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention. For example, if an element or feature in the drawings is inverted, an element or feature described as "beneath" or "below" becomes "upper" or "on top." Therefore, "beneath" is a concept that encompasses "upper" or "below."

[0051] In the drawings, the sizes of components may be exaggerated or reduced for convenience of explanation. For example, the size and thickness of each component shown in the drawings are depicted arbitrarily for convenience of explanation, so the present invention is not necessarily limited to what is illustrated.

[0052] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications capable of replacing them may exist at the time of filing this application. Furthermore, detailed descriptions of known functions and configurations that may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the present invention are omitted.

[0053] In this specification, an XYZ coordinate system may be used. For example, the XYZ coordinate system may include an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis. The XYZ coordinate system may be a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0054] For example, the X-axis can be parallel to the left and right directions. For instance, the direction in which the negative X-axis points can be the left direction. For instance, the direction in which the positive X-axis points can be the right direction.

[0055] For example, the Y-axis can be parallel to the front-back direction. For example, the X-axis and Y-axis can form a horizontal plane. For example, the direction in which the positive Y-axis points can be forward. For example, the direction in which the negative Y-axis points can be rearward.

[0056] For example, the Z-axis can be parallel to the vertical direction. For example, the direction in which the positive Z-axis points can be upward. For example, the direction in which the negative Z-axis points can be downward.

[0057] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a microneedle array. In FIG. 1, only a part of the microneedle array (10) may be shown for convenience of explanation.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 1, the microneedle array (10) may mean a collection of multiple microneedles. A microneedle is a fine needle-shaped structure with a thickness of usually 1000 µm or less, and may be a transdermal drug delivery system that attaches to the skin to deliver drugs into the body.

[0059] The microneedle array (10) can be attached to the user's skin in the form of a patch to deliver drugs percutaneously, and can reduce pain compared to injections.

[0060] For example, to maximize the pain relief effect and improve the transdermal delivery speed of the drug, the size of each microneedle constituting the microneedle array (10) may be about 10 μm to 990 μm.

[0061] The microneedle array (10) can be formed from a polymer material. For example, the microneedle array (10) can be formed from a biodegradable polymer material. A microneedle array (10) formed from a biodegradable polymer material can be completely degraded and may not require a separate removal process.

[0062] The microneedle array (10) may include a base (11). For example, the base (11) may have a constant thickness in the upper and lower directions. For example, the base (11) may be in the shape of a plate or board with flat upper and lower surfaces.

[0063] A microneedle array (10) may include tips (12). There may be multiple tips (12). For example, the microneedle array (10) may include multiple tips (12). For example, a tip (12) may mean or include at least one of the multiple tips (12).

[0064] The tip (12) can be formed from a material that is easily decomposed. For example, the tip (12) can be formed from a biodegradable polymer material. In this case, the tip (12) can self-decompose depending on environmental factors of the human body, such as the temperature of the skin, after puncturing the skin.

[0065] The tip (12) may protrude from the base (11). For example, the tip (12) may protrude from the lower surface of the base (11) forming a downward slope. For example, the tip (12) may protrude downward from the lower surface of the base (11), and the horizontal cross-sectional area may decrease as it goes downward.

[0066] For example, the tip (12) may be formed in a conical, polygonal pyramidal, or bell tower shape. For example, the outer surface of the tip (12) may form at least part of the shape of a cone or pyramid.

[0067] The tip (12) may include an attachment (123). The attachment (123) may form the bottom of the tip (12). For example, the attachment (123) may form the lowest end of the tip (12). For example, the attachment (123) may refer to the bottom of the outer surface of the tip (12). For example, the attachment (123) may be placed below the base (11) and the hollow portion (14).

[0068] The microneedle array (10) may include a hollow portion (14). The microneedle array (10) may include a plurality of hollow portions (14). For example, the hollow portion (14) may mean or include at least one of the plurality of hollow portions (14).

[0069] A hollow portion (14) may be formed in each of the plurality of tips (12). For example, the plurality of hollow portions (14) may correspond to the plurality of tips (12). For example, each of the plurality of hollow portions (14) may be formed in one of the corresponding tips (12).

[0070] The hollow portion (14) penetrates the base (11) but can be formed by being recessed at the top of the tip (12). For example, the hollow portion (14) can be formed by being recessed from the top of the tip (12) toward the attachment (123).

[0071] For example, the hollow portion (14) may be a shape surrounded by the base (11) and the tip (12). For example, the upper portion of the hollow portion (14) may be a shape surrounded by the base (11). For example, the lower portion of the hollow portion (14) may be a shape surrounded by the tip (12).

[0072] In other words, the boundary of the upper portion of the hollow portion (14) is determined by the base (11), and the boundary of the lower portion of the hollow portion (14) can be determined by the tip (12).

[0073] The hollow portion (14) can be opened upward. For example, the top of the hollow portion (14) can be connected to the upper surface of the base (11). The microneedle array (10) can hold a drug. For example, the hollow portion (14) can hold a drug.

[0074] The direction in which the tip (12) protrudes from the base (11) may be parallel to the up-and-down direction. For example, the longitudinal direction of the hollow portion (14) may be the direction in which the tip (12) protrudes from the base (11).

[0075] Based on the vertical direction, the length of the hollow portion (14) may be less than or equal to the sum of the length of the base (11) and the length of the tip (12). Thus, the hollow portion (14) can contain the drug without exposing it to the outside until the tip (12) reaches the target skin layer.

[0076] The microneedle array (10) may include a coating layer (13). For example, the coating layer (13) may be laminated on the upper surface of the base (11) to cover the base (11).

[0077] For example, the coating layer (13) can cover the hollow portion (14). For example, the coating layer (13) can seal the hollow portion (14) by blocking the top of the hollow portion (14). That is, through the coating layer (13), the hollow portion (14) can safely contain a drug.

[0078] The coating layer (13) can support the microneedle array (10). For example, the coating layer (13) can suppress distortion of the base (11). For example, the coating layer (13) can suppress relative positional changes between two adjacent tips (12).

[0079] The material forming the coating layer (13) may be similar to the material forming the base (11) or the material forming the tip (12). For example, the coating layer (13) may be formed from the same material as a polymer material or a biodegradable polymer material.

[0080] Figure 2 is a diagram showing a microneedle array including a cone-shaped tip.

[0081] Figure 3 is a diagram showing a microneedle array including wedge-shaped tips.

[0082] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a microneedle array including ring-shaped tips.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, the microneedle array (10) may disclose a plurality of tips (12) having various shapes.

[0084] For example, a plurality of tips (12) may be arranged sequentially in at least one of the length direction and the width direction. The width direction and the length direction in which the tips (12) are arranged may intersect each other and may be parallel to the lower surface of the base (11).

[0085] For example, the lower surface of the base (11) may be parallel to the horizontal surface. For example, the length and width directions of the tip (12) may be parallel to the horizontal surface. For example, the plane formed by the length and width directions of the tip (12) may be parallel to the lower surface of the base (11).

[0086] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the tip (12) may be conical in shape. For example, the tip (12) may form at least part of the shape of a cone. Each of the conical tips (12) may form a recess or a hollow (14) inside to hold a drug.

[0087] As another example, the tip (12) can form the shape of a polygonal pyramid. For example, the outer surface of the tip (12) can form the shape of a triangular pyramid or a square pyramid.

[0088] For example, the tip (12) may be wedge-shaped. The wedge-shaped tip (12) may be extended in the longitudinal direction. Each wedge-shaped tip (12) may form a hollow portion (14) inside to hold a drug.

[0089] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the longitudinal direction of the tip (12) may be the X-axis direction. For example, the longitudinal direction of the attachment (123) may be the same as the longitudinal direction of the tip (12). For example, the shape of the tip (12) may depend on the shape of the attachment (123).

[0090] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the attachment (123) can form the shape of a dot or point. If the attachment (123) is in the shape of a dot, the tip (12) can be in the shape of a cone or pyramid.

[0091] For example, the attachment (123) can form a straight shape, as shown in FIG. 3. If the attachment (123) has a straight shape, the tip (12) may have a wedge shape.

[0092] As another example, the attachment (123) can form a curved shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the attachment (123) can form a ring shape. The tip (12) may include an inclined surface (120). The inclined surface (120) can form the outer surface of the tip (12). For example, the top of the inclined surface (120) can be connected to the bottom surface of the base (11). The bottom of the inclined surface (120) can form the attachment (123).

[0093] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the inclined surface (120) may be formed as a single unit. As another example, the inclined surface (120) may be divided based on the attachment (123). For example, based on the attachment (123), one side may be divided into the first wing (121) and the other side into the second wing (122).

[0094] For example, the inclined surface (120) may form a curved shape toward the hollow portion (14) from the attachment (123). For example, the attachment (123) may form the bottom of the first wing (121) and the bottom of the second wing (122). For example, the first wing (121) and the second wing (122) may be connected to the attachment (123).

[0095] In other words, one end of each of the first wing (121) and the second wing (122) may be connected to the base (11), and the other end may be connected to the attachment (123). The first wing (121) and the second wing (122) may be in a shape tilted toward each other.

[0096] For example, the first wing (121) may be extended at an angle from the top of the first wing (121) toward the second wing (122) and connected to the attachment (123). For example, the second wing (122) may be extended at an angle from the top of the second wing (122) toward the first wing (121) and connected to the attachment (123).

[0097] Multiple tips (12) may be arranged in the width direction. For example, the width direction may be the width direction of each tip (12). The width direction may intersect with the length direction of the tip (12). For example, the direction in which the multiple tips (12) are arranged may intersect or be perpendicular to the length direction of the tip (12).

[0098] For example, a plurality of tips (12) may include a first tip (12A) and a second tip (12B) adjacent to each other. The first tip (12A) may be located in front of the second tip (12B).

[0099] The first wing (121) can form the front surface of the tip (12). The second wing (122) can form the rear surface of the tip (12). For example, the second wing (122) of the first tip (12A) can face the first wing (121) of the second tip (12B).

[0100] The shape of the hollow portion (14) may depend on the shape of the tip (12). For example, due to the wedge-shaped tip (12), the hollow portion (14) may extend in the longitudinal direction of the tip (12). For example, the volume of the hollow portion (14) formed in the wedge-shaped tip (12) may be larger than the volume of the hollow portion (14) formed in the cone-shaped tip (12) under the same conditions.

[0101] For example, if the area occupied by the hollow portion (14) per unit area in the horizontal direction of the base (11) is called the “unit drug delivery area,” the unit drug delivery area of ​​the microneedle array (10) of the wedge-shaped tip (12) may be larger than the unit drug delivery area of ​​the microneedle array (10) of the cone-shaped tip (12). Thus, the user can deliver the drug to a wider area at once.

[0102] For example, a plurality of tips (12) may be arranged sequentially in a radial manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a plurality of tips (12) may be arranged radially around a center line (CL). The center line (CL) may be a virtual line that commonly passes through each of the plurality of tips (12). For example, the plurality of tips (12) may form concentric circles around the center line (CL).

[0103] For example, the center (C) may be a point located on the lower surface of the base (11) along the center line (CL). For example, a plurality of tips (12) may form a concentric circle with respect to the center (C). For example, the attachment (123) of the tip (12) may form a ring shape.

[0104] Based on the center (C), the side of each tip (12) that is closer to the center (C) can be classified as the inner side, and the side that is farther from the center can be classified as the outer side. For example, a first wing (121) can be placed on the inner side of each tip (12), and a second wing (122) can be placed on the outer side.

[0105] In this context, the first wing (121) can form a “center-oriented plane” and the second wing (122) can form an “outer-oriented plane.” The center-oriented plane formed by the first wing (121) can face the centerline (CL).

[0106] A plurality of tips (12) may include a first tip (12A) and a second tip (12B) adjacent to each other with respect to the center line (CL). The second tip (12B) may form a shape that surrounds the first tip (12A). That is, the second tip (12B) may be located on the outside of the first tip (12A).

[0107] The second wing (122) of the first tip (12A) and the first wing (121) of the second tip (12B) can face each other. That is, the second wing (122) of the first tip (12A) can face the second tip (12B), and the first wing (121) of the second tip (12B) can face the first tip (12A).

[0108] For example, the second wing (122) of the radial tip (12) located on the inner side, the base (11), and the first wing (121) of the radial tip (12) located on the outer side can be arranged and connected sequentially.

[0109] For example, the second wing (122) of the first tip (12A), the base (11), and the first wing (121) of the second tip (12B) may be arranged or connected sequentially in a radial direction.

[0110] A hollow portion (14) may be formed in each of the plurality of radially arranged tips (12). The hollow portion (14) may be surrounded by a first wing (121), a second wing (122), and a base (11).

[0111] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the length of each component of the microneedle array illustrated in Figure 1.

[0112] Figure 6 is a drawing showing a part of the microneedle array illustrated in Figure 5, in which the width direction length of the hollow part is set as the independent variable and the vertical direction length of the hollow part is shown as the dependent variable.

[0113] Figure 7 is a drawing showing a part of the microneedle array illustrated in Figure 5, in which the vertical length of the hollow part is set as the independent variable and the width length of the hollow part is shown as the dependent variable.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 5 through 7, the tip centerline (TCL) may be an imaginary line that serves as the center of the tip (12). For example, the vertical cross-section of the tip (12) may be symmetrical with respect to the tip centerline (TCL). The vertical cross-section of the tip (12) may be a plane that includes the tip centerline (TCL). The tip centerline (TCL) may pass through the attachment (123).

[0115] The hollow portion (14) formed in the tip (12) may be symmetrical with respect to the tip centerline (TCL) of the tip (12). For example, the vertical cross-section of the hollow portion (14) formed in the tip (12) may be symmetrical with respect to the tip centerline (TCL).

[0116] 'HH' is the vertical length of the hollow section (14), 'HT' is the vertical length of the tip (12), 'HB' is the vertical length of the base (11), 'WH' is the width of the bottom of the hollow section (14), 'WT' is the width of the top of the tip (12), and 'θ' may be the angle formed by the tip centerline (TCL) and the inclined surface (120).

[0117] More specifically, the vertical length (HH) of the hollow portion (14) is the distance between one end and the other end of the hollow portion (14), and one end of the hollow portion (14) may be in contact with the coating layer (13), and the other end of the hollow portion (14) may be the point closest to the inclined surface (120) of the hollow portion (14). For example, the horizontal cross-sectional area of ​​the hollow portion (14) may be constant depending on the location.

[0118] The vertical length (HT) of the tip (12) may be the vertical length measured from the top of the tip (12) that meets the bottom surface of the base (11) to the attachment (123).

[0119] The vertical length (HB) of the base (11) may be the length measured in the vertical direction from the upper surface to the lower surface of the base (11).

[0120] The width direction length (WH) of the bottom of the hollow section (14) may be the length measured between the two ends of the bottom of the hollow section (14) in the width direction.

[0121] The widthwise length (WT) of the top of the tip (12) is the distance between the two ends of the top of the tip (12) in the widthwise direction, and the top of the tip (12) can be connected to the lower surface of the base (11). For example, the horizontal distance from the tip centerline (TCL) to one end of the top of the tip (12) in the widthwise direction can be 'WT / 2', which is half the widthwise length (WT) of the top of the tip (12).

[0122] Referring to FIG. 6, when the width direction length (WH) of the bottom of the hollow part (14) is set as an independent variable, the vertical direction length (HH) of the hollow part (14) can be expressed as a dependent variable in an expression related to the width direction length (WH) of the bottom of the hollow part (14).

[0123] When the width direction length (WH) of the bottom of the hollow section (14) is given as an independent variable, if the vertical direction length (HH) of the hollow section (14) increases, the hollow section (14) can meet the inclined surface (120).

[0124] When the hollow portion (14) meets the inclined surface (120), the vertical length of the hollow portion (14) is the second vertical length (H2), and the vertical distance between the bottom of the hollow portion (14) and the attachment (123) may be the first vertical length (H1).

[0125] The sum of the first vertical length (H1) and the second vertical length (H2) may be equal to the sum of the vertical length (HT) of the tip (12) and the vertical length (HB) of the base (11).

[0126] In order for the hollow part (14) not to meet the inclined surface (120), the vertical length (HH) of the hollow part (14) must be smaller than the second vertical length (H2), so the vertical length (HH) of the hollow part (14) can satisfy the following mathematical formula 1.

[0127]

[0128] From a right triangle containing the tip centerline (TCL) and the inclined plane (120), a trigonometric function related to the angle (θ) formed by the tip centerline (TCL) and the inclined plane (120) can be derived as shown in Equation 2 below.

[0129]

[0130] From the above mathematical formulas 1 and 2, the vertical length (HH) of the hollow portion (14) can be expressed through the following mathematical formula 3 using the width direction length (WH) of the bottom of the hollow portion (14).

[0131]

[0132] Referring to FIG. 7, when the vertical length (HH) of the hollow part (14) is set as an independent variable, the width (WT) of the bottom of the hollow part (14) can be expressed as a dependent variable in an expression related to the vertical length (HH) of the hollow part (14).

[0133] When the vertical length (HH) of the hollow section (14) is given as an independent variable, if the width (WH) of the hollow section (14) increases, the hollow section (14) can meet the inclined surface (120).

[0134] When the hollow portion (14) meets the inclined surface (120), the width direction length of the hollow portion (14) is the first width direction length (W1), and the vertical distance between the bottom of the hollow portion (14) and the attachment (123) may be the first vertical direction length (H1).

[0135] The sum of the first vertical length (H1) and the vertical length (HH) of the hollow part (14) may be equal to the sum of the vertical length (HT) of the tip (12) and the vertical length (HB) of the base (11), as expressed in Equation 4 below.

[0136]

[0137] From a right triangle containing the tip centerline (TCL) and the inclined plane (120), a trigonometric function related to the angle (θ) formed by the tip centerline (TCL) and the inclined plane (120) can be derived as shown in Equation 5 below.

[0138]

[0139] In order for the hollow portion (14) not to meet the inclined surface (120), the width direction length (WH) of the hollow portion (14) may be smaller than the first width direction length (W1) and can be expressed as in Equation 6 below.

[0140]

[0141] From the above mathematical formulas 4 to 6, the width direction length (WH) of the bottom of the hollow portion (14) can be expressed through the following mathematical formula 7 using the vertical direction length (HH) of the hollow portion (14).

[0142]

[0143] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the appearance of a lower mold according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 8, the lower mold (200) may be a mold for forming a microneedle array (10). For example, the specific shape and specifications of the microneedle array (10) may vary depending on the shape and specifications of the lower mold (200). For example, the shape and specifications of each component of the microneedle array (10) may correspond to the shape and specifications of each component of the lower mold (200) to be described later.

[0145] The lower mold (200) may include a plate (210). The plate (210) may protrude upward or be recessed downward from the upper surface of the lower mold (200), or the upper surface of the plate may be formed parallel to the upper surface of the lower mold (200).

[0146] The plate (210) may be in the shape of a plate or board including a plurality of recesses. The plate (210) may be formed parallel to the upper surface of the lower mold (200), or protrude upward or sink downward from the upper surface of the lower mold (200).

[0147] The lower mold (200) may include a plurality of plate grooves (220). The plate groove (220) may include or mean at least one of the plurality of plate grooves (220).

[0148] A plate groove (220) may be formed in the plate (210). The plate groove (220) may be a shape enclosed by the plate (210). The plate groove (220) may be recessed downward from the upper surface of the plate (210). The plate groove (220) may be a recess that is open upward.

[0149] The upper part of the plate groove (220) can be opened upward and the lower part can be closed. For example, the upper part of the plate groove (220) can be connected to the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0150] For example, the inner wall of the plate groove (220) may be a portion of the surface of the plate (210) facing the plate groove (220). For example, the inner wall of the plate groove (220) may be connected to the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0151] For example, the inner wall of the plate groove (220) may extend from the upper surface of the plate (210). For example, the inner wall of the plate groove (220) may be concave.

[0152] The plate groove (220) can form a shape that facilitates the reception of material. For example, the plate groove (220) can be formed concave downward. For example, the inner wall of the plate groove (220) can be formed concave downward.

[0153] The shape of the plate groove (220) may correspond to the shape of the tip (12, see FIG. 2 to 4). For example, the plate groove (220) may be recessed to form a downward slope on the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0154] For example, the inner wall of the plate groove (220) may extend downwardly from the upper surface of the plate (210). For example, the plate groove (220) may accommodate a polymer material or a biodegradable polymer material that serves as the material for the microneedle array (10, see FIG. 1).

[0155] The plate groove (220) can be formed in various shapes. For example, the plate groove (220) can be formed such that its horizontal width is constant from top to bottom. Alternatively, the plate groove (220) can be formed such that its horizontal width narrows as it goes downward. In this case, the plate groove (220) can be formed in a conical, polygonal pyramidal, or bell tower shape.

[0156] The shape of the microneedle array (10) may depend on the shape of the lower mold (200). For example, the shape of the tip (12) may depend on the shape of the plate groove (220). For example, if the plate groove (220) forms a cone, the tip (12) may form a conical shape overall.

[0157] The size or shape of the microneedle array (10) may depend on the shape or size of the lower mold (200), respectively. For example, the size or shape of the tip (12) may depend on the size or shape of the plate groove (220), respectively. For example, the vertical length (HT, see FIG. 5) of the tip (12, see FIG. 5) may be equal to or shorter than the vertical length (HMT, see FIG. 12) of the plate groove (220).

[0158] FIG. 9 is a plan view of a part of the lower mold, showing a lower mold in which the plate groove is conical in shape.

[0159] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a lower mold in which the plate groove is wedge-shaped, as part of a plan view of a part of the lower mold.

[0160] FIG. 11 is a plan view of a part of the lower mold, showing the lower mold in which the plate groove is in the shape of a ring.

[0161] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 9 to 11, the lower mold (200) may disclose a plurality of plate grooves (220) forming spaces of various shapes.

[0162] A plurality of plate grooves (220) may be arranged sequentially in the length direction or the width direction. The length direction may be the length direction of each plate groove (220). The width direction may be the width direction of each plate groove (220). The length direction of the plate groove (220) and the width direction of the plate groove (220) may intersect each other.

[0163] The length direction of each plate groove (220) may be the length direction of each tip (12). The width direction of each plate groove (220) may be the width direction of each tip (12). Thus, the width direction of the plate groove (220) may intersect with the length direction of the tip (12).

[0164] For example, a plurality of plate grooves (220) may be arranged sequentially in at least one of the length direction and the width direction. The width direction and the length direction, in which the plate grooves (220) are arranged, may intersect each other and may be parallel to the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0165] For example, the upper surface of the plate (210) may be parallel to the horizontal plane. For example, the length and width directions of the plate groove (220) may be parallel to the horizontal plane. For example, the plane formed by the length and width directions of the plate groove (220) may be parallel to the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0166] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, the plate groove (220) may be conical. For example, the plate groove (220) may form the shape of at least part of a cone.

[0167] As another example, as shown in FIG. 10, the plate groove (220) may form a recess with a vertical cross-section that is 'V'-shaped. The tip (12) formed through the plate groove (220) with a vertical cross-section that is 'V'-shaped may be wedge-shaped. For example, the shape of the tip (12) formed through the plate groove (220) with a vertical cross-section that is V-shaped may be the shape shown in FIG. 3.

[0168] A V-shaped plate groove (220), such as that shown in FIG. 10, may be recessed downward from the upper surface of the plate (210) and extended in the longitudinal direction. The plate groove (220) may include a branching portion (223). The lowest end of the plate groove (220) may be the branching portion (223). The plate groove (220) may protrude at the branching portion (223) to form an incline and extend to the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0169] The branch portion (223) may be formed as a straight line. For example, the branch portion (223) may be extended in the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction of the branch portion (223) may be the same as the longitudinal direction of the plate groove (220).

[0170] The length of the attachment (123) may depend on the longitudinal length of the plate groove (220). For example, the length of the attachment (123) may depend on the longitudinal length of the branch (223). For example, the longitudinal length of the branch (223) may be greater than or equal to the longitudinal length of the attachment (123).

[0171] The branching portion (223) can serve as a criterion for distinguishing the plate groove (220). For example, based on the branching portion (223), the groove located on the rear side may be the first wing groove (221) and the groove located on the front side may be the second wing groove (222). The first wing groove (221) and the second wing groove (222) can each form the first wing (121, see FIG. 4) and the second wing (122, see FIG. 4).

[0172] The branching portion (223) can form a curved shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the branching portion (223) can form a ring shape.

[0173] The shape of the plate groove (220) may depend on the shape of the branch portion (223). For example, if the branch portion (223) forms a ring shape, the horizontal cross-section of the plate groove (220) may be formed in a ring shape.

[0174] For example, a plurality of plate grooves (220) may include a first plate groove (220A) and a second plate groove (220B) that are adjacent to each other. The first plate groove (220A) may be located at a rear side of the second plate groove (220B). For example, the second wing groove (222) of the first plate groove (220A) may be located at a rear side of the first wing groove (221) of the second plate groove (220B). For example, the second wing groove (222) of the first plate groove (220A), the upper surface of the plate (210), and the first wing groove (221) of the second plate groove (220B) may be sequentially connected or arranged.

[0175] A lower mold center (CLM) may be located in the center of the plate (210). In other words, the lower mold center (CLM) may be a point located in the center of the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0176] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, a plurality of plate grooves (220) may be arranged sequentially in a radial manner. For example, the plurality of plate grooves (220) may form concentric circles with respect to the lower mold center (CLM). For example, the branch portion (223) of the plate groove (220) may form a ring shape with respect to the lower mold center (CLM).

[0177] Based on the lower mold center (CLM), the side of each plate groove (220) that is closer to the lower mold center (CLM) can be classified as the inner side and the side that is further away as the outer side. For example, a first wing groove (221) can be placed on the inner side of each plate groove (220), and a second wing groove (222) can be placed on the outer side.

[0178] A plurality of plate grooves (220) may include a first plate groove (220A) and a second plate groove (220B) adjacent to each other with respect to the lower mold center (CLM). The second plate groove (220B) may be located further from the lower mold center (CLM) than the first plate groove (220A). That is, the second plate groove (220B) may be located outside the first plate groove (220A).

[0179] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a portion of a cross-section of the lower mold shown in FIG. 8, cut along A1-A2.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 12, the length of each component of the lower mold (200) shown in FIG. 8 can be determined. At this time, to compare the length of each component of the lower mold (200), the length of each component of the microneedle array (10) shown in FIG. 5 can be referenced together.

[0181] 'HMT' is the vertical length of the plate groove (220), and 'WMT' may be the width of the top of the plate groove (220).

[0182] More specifically, the vertical length (HMT) of the plate groove (220) is the distance between one end and the other end of the plate groove (220), and one end of the plate groove (220) may be connected to the upper surface of the plate (210), and the other end of the plate groove (220) may be the point closest to the lower surface of the plate (210).

[0183] The vertical length (HMT) of the plate groove (220) may be the vertical length measured from the top of the plate groove (220) connected to the upper surface of the plate groove (220) to the branching portion (223).

[0184] The widthwise length (WMT) of the top of the plate groove (220) may be the length measured between the two ends of the top of the plate groove (220) in the widthwise direction.

[0185] The specifications of the tip (12) may depend on the specifications of the plate groove (220).

[0186] For example, the vertical length (HT) of the tip (12) may be equal to the vertical length (HMT) of the plate groove (220). For example, if a polymer material or a biodegradable polymer material is injected after applying oil or other materials to the plate groove (220), the vertical length (HT) of the tip (12) may be shorter than the vertical length (HMT) of the plate groove (220).

[0187] For example, the top widthwise length (WT) of the tip (12) may be equal to the top widthwise length (WMT) of the plate groove (220). For example, if a polymer material or a biodegradable polymer material is injected after applying oil or other materials to the plate groove (220), the top widthwise length (WT) of the tip (12) may be shorter than the top widthwise length (WMT) of the plate groove (220).

[0188] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing the appearance of an upper mold according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0189] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 13, the upper mold (300) may be a mold for forming a microneedle array (10). For example, the specific shape and specifications of the microneedle array (10) may vary depending on the shape and specifications of the upper mold (300). For example, the shape and specifications of the hollow portion (14) may depend on the shape and specifications of the upper mold (300).

[0190] The upper mold (300) may include an upper mold body (310) and a plurality of upper mold protrusions (320). The upper mold body (310) may include a plurality of upper mold protrusions (320). The upper mold protrusion (320) may include or refer to at least one of the plurality of upper mold protrusions (320).

[0191] The upper mold body (310) can support the upper mold protrusion (320). For example, as shown in FIG. 13, the upper mold body (310) may be in the shape of a plate or a board.

[0192] Any shape capable of supporting the upper mold protrusion (320) can be the shape of the upper mold body (310), and is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 13. For example, the shape of the upper mold body (310) can be grid-shaped.

[0193] The upper mold protrusion (320) may protrude from the lower surface of the upper mold body (310). One end of the upper mold protrusion (320) may be connected to the lower surface of the upper mold body (310). One end of the upper mold protrusion (320) may protrude from the lower surface of the upper mold body (310) and extend to the other end.

[0194] The upper mold protrusion (320) can form various shapes.

[0195] For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may have a shape having a constant horizontal cross-sectional area regardless of the top or bottom. For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may have a cylindrical or polygonal prism shape.

[0196] For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may have a shape in which the horizontal cross-sectional area varies depending on the top and bottom. For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may be formed so that the horizontal cross-sectional area becomes smaller as it goes downward.

[0197] For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may be formed such that its horizontal cross-sectional area decreases as it moves away from the upper mold body (310). For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may be cone-shaped, polygonal pyramidal, or bell tower-shaped. For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may be in the shape of a protrusion or a pin.

[0198] For example, the end of the upper mold protrusion (320) may be formed round. For example, the lower end of the upper mold protrusion (320) may be formed round. For example, the lower end of the upper mold protrusion (320) may be convex.

[0199] For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may be in the shape of a column having a rounded end. For example, the end of the upper mold protrusion (320) may be in the shape of a hemisphere or a dome.

[0200] For example, the lower surface of the upper mold body (310) may be parallel to the horizontal plane. For example, the length direction and width direction of the upper mold body (310) may be parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0201] For example, a plurality of upper mold protrusions (320) may be sequentially arranged in at least one of the length direction and width direction of the upper mold body (310). The width direction and length direction of the upper mold body (310) in which the upper mold protrusions (320) are arranged may intersect each other.

[0202] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing an upper mold according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0203] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing an upper mold including a ring-shaped upper mold protrusion.

[0204] Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15, the upper mold (300) may disclose a plurality of upper mold protrusions (320) having various shapes.

[0205] For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may be extended in the longitudinal direction as shown in FIG. 14. The longitudinal direction of the upper mold protrusion (320) may be in the X-axis direction. For example, the longitudinal direction of the upper mold protrusion (320) may be parallel to the lower surface of the upper mold body (310).

[0206] For example, each of the plurality of upper mold protrusions (320) may be arranged in the width direction as shown in FIG. 14. The width direction of the upper mold protrusions (320) may be the Y-axis direction.

[0207] For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may be formed to have a circular horizontal cross-section as shown in FIG. 15. For example, the upper mold protrusion (320) may be formed to have a ring-shaped horizontal cross-section.

[0208] For example, a plurality of upper mold protrusions (320) may include a first upper mold protrusion (320A) and a second upper mold protrusion (320B) adjacent to each other. The first upper mold protrusion (320A) may be located behind the second upper mold protrusion (320B).

[0209] An upper mold center (CUM) may be located at the center of the lower surface of the upper mold body (310). In other words, the upper mold center (CUM) may be a point located at the center of the lower surface of the upper mold body (310).

[0210] For example, as shown in FIG. 15, a plurality of upper mold protrusions (320) may be arranged sequentially in a radial manner. For example, a plurality of upper mold protrusions (320) may form concentric circles with respect to the upper mold center (CUM).

[0211] Based on the upper mold center (CUM), each upper mold protrusion (320) can be divided into an inner side closer to the upper mold center (CUM) and an outer side further away. For example, a first upper mold protrusion (320A) may be positioned on the inner side of each upper mold protrusion (320), and a second upper mold protrusion (320B) may be positioned on the outer side. In other words, the first upper mold protrusion (320A) may be surrounded by the second upper mold protrusion (320B).

[0212] The upper mold protrusion (320) can form an inner surface and an outer surface. For example, based on the upper mold center (CUM), the side closer to the upper mold center (CUM) can be distinguished as the inner surface, and the side further away as the outer surface.

[0213] The outer surface of the first upper mold protrusion (320A) and the inner surface of the second upper mold protrusion (320B) may face each other. For example, the outer surface of the first upper mold protrusion (320A), the lower surface of the upper mold body (310), and the inner surface of the second upper mold protrusion (320B) may be sequentially arranged or connected in a radial direction.

[0214] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing the formation of a microneedle array by pressing the upper mold against the lower mold after the lower mold is filled with a polymer material.

[0215] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 16, the mold (20) may include a lower mold (200) and an upper mold (300). The upper mold (300) may be placed on top of the lower mold (200).

[0216] A polymer material can be filled into the lower mold (200). For example, a polymer material can be filled into the plate groove (220). For example, after oil is applied to the upper surface of the plate (210) and the plate groove (220), a polymer material can be filled into it.

[0217] To form a microneedle array (10), an upper mold (300) can be pressed onto a lower mold (200). For example, the upper mold (300) can be inserted into a plate groove (220) filled with a polymer material. For example, an upper mold protrusion (320) can be inserted into a plate groove (220) filled with a polymer material. In this case, the lower end of the upper mold protrusion (320) may be in contact with the inner wall of the plate groove (220) or positioned above the inner wall of the plate groove (220).

[0218] When the upper mold (300) is pressed onto the lower mold (200), the lower mold (200), the microneedle array (10) being molded, and the upper mold (300) can be arranged sequentially.

[0219] When the upper mold (300), more specifically the upper mold protrusion (320), is inserted into the plate groove (220), the polymer material filled in the plate groove (220) can be pushed upward along the inner wall of the plate groove (220).

[0220] The polymer material that has escaped from the plate groove (220) can be placed on the upper surface of the plate (210). For example, the polymer material that has escaped from the plate groove (220) can be formed into a base (11, see FIG. 1) together with or alone of the existing polymer material that was applied to the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0221] When a polymer material placed on the upper surface of the plate (210) forms a certain thickness in the vertical direction, the polymer material may come into contact with the upper mold body (310). More specifically, the polymer material may come into contact with the lower surface of the upper mold body (310).

[0222] Referring to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 16, the shape of the microneedle array (10) may depend on the shape of the mold (20). For example, the shape of the tip (12) may correspond to the shape of the plate groove (220). For example, the shape of the base (11) may correspond to the shape of the mold (20). More specifically, the shape of the base (11) may correspond to the shape of the upper surface of the plate (210) and the shape of the lower surface of the upper mold body (310). For example, the shape of the hollow portion (14) may correspond to the shape of the upper mold protrusion (320).

[0223] A polymer material placed between the lower mold (200) and the upper mold (300) can be formed into a microneedle array (10) through a series of process steps described later.

[0224] FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a microneedle array. For convenience of explaining the method for manufacturing a microneedle array (S10), FIG. 1 and FIG. 8 to 16 may be referenced below.

[0225] Referring to FIG. 17, a method for manufacturing a microneedle array (S10) may include a step (S100) of filling a polymer material into a lower mold. The injected polymer material may come into contact with at least one of the upper surface of the plate (210) and the plate groove (220).

[0226] For example, the injected polymer material can flow from the upper surface of the plate (210) into the plate groove (220). For example, the polymer material may be preferentially filled until it reaches the maximum capacity of the plate groove (220), and then, at the moment it exceeds the maximum capacity of the plate groove (220), it may overflow onto the upper surface of the plate (210).

[0227] The method for manufacturing a microneedle array (S10) may include a step (S200) of coating oil on an upper mold protrusion. In this step (S200), the oil may be coated or laminated on the surface of the upper mold protrusion (320). The oil coating step (S200) may be performed to facilitate the upper mold protrusion (320) from the polymer material in a process step to be described later.

[0228] However, depending on the type of polymer material injected into the lower mold (200) in the previous step (S100), the oil coating step (S200) may be omitted. For example, if the polymer material injected into the lower mold (200) is hydrophobic, the oil coating step (S200) may be omitted.

[0229] The method for manufacturing a microneedle array (S10) may include a step (S300) in which an upper mold is compressed after being lowered. In this step (S300), a compression means, such as a press machine, may be used to lower the upper mold (300). The compression means may be electrically or physically connected to the upper mold (300) to lower the upper mold (300).

[0230] The lowered upper mold (300) can be pressed onto the lower mold (200). As the upper mold (300) is pressed, the polymer material located between the lower mold (200) and the upper mold (300) can be compressed together. At the same time, as the upper mold protrusion (320) penetrates the polymer material, a shape corresponding to the hollow portion (14) (hereinafter referred to as the hollow portion (14)) can be formed.

[0231] If the oil coating step (S200) is performed, the oil coated on the upper mold protrusion (320) during the compression process (S300) of the upper mold (300) can be coated on the surface of the hollow part (14).

[0232] The method for manufacturing a microneedle array (S10) may include a step (S400) in which a polymer material is dried. This step (S400) may be performed at room temperature without the aid of any external means, but a drying means such as a heater may be used. This step (S400) may be a process for curing or solidifying the polymer material.

[0233] When a drying means is used, the drying means may be connected to at least one of the lower mold (200) or the upper mold (300) to indirectly transfer heat to the polymer material. Alternatively, the drying means may directly transfer heat to the polymer material.

[0234] If necessary, a process of detaching the upper mold (300) from the polymer material may be performed before the drying step (S400) is performed.

[0235] A microneedle array (10, see FIG. 1) can be manufactured through the series of steps (S100, S200, S300, S400) described above, and the method for manufacturing the microneedle array (S10) is not limited to the process steps shown in FIG. 17.

[0236] For example, in addition to the steps illustrated in FIG. 17, a step of separating from the lower mold (200) for manufacturing the microneedle array (10) may be performed. However, if necessary, it may also be possible to separate the microneedle array (10) from the lower mold (200) after filling the hollow portion (14) with a drug and forming a coating layer (13) that closes the hollow portion (14).

[0237] Some or other embodiments of the present invention described above are not exclusive or distinct from one another. Some or other embodiments of the present invention described above may be used in combination or combined, with their respective components or functions.

[0238] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention as defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0240] 10: Microneedle Array 11: Bass 12: Tip 120: Slope 123: Attachment 13: Coating layer 14: Chinese government TCL: Tip centerline 20: Mold 200: Lower mold 210: Plate 220: Plate groove 223: Branch CLM: Lower Mold Center 300: Upper mold 310: Upper mold body 320: Upper mold protrusion CUM: Upper mold center HH: Vertical length of the hollow part (14) HT: Vertical length of the tip (12) HB: Vertical length of base (11) WH: Width of the bottom of the hollow section (14) WT: Width length of the top of the tip (12) θ: Angle formed by the tip centerline (TCL) and the inclined surface (120)

Claims

Claim 1 A base forming a constant thickness vertically; a tip protruding downward from the base and having a horizontal cross-sectional area that decreases as it goes downward; and a hollow portion penetrating the base and formed by being recessed into the tip, wherein, with respect to the vertical direction, the length of the hollow portion is less than or equal to the sum of the length of the base and the length of the tip, and the base, the tip, and the hollow portion satisfy the following Equation 3, [Equation 3] (Here, HH: length of the hollow portion, HT: length of the tip, HB: length of the base, WH: width of the bottom of the hollow portion, WT: width of the top of the tip) Microneedle array, wherein the length of the hollow portion, the length of the tip, and the length of the base are measured based on the vertical direction, and the width of the bottom of the hollow portion and the width of the top of the tip are measured based on the horizontal direction. Claim 2 A microneedle array according to claim 1, further comprising a coating layer laminated on the upper surface of the base and blocking the upper end of the hollow portion. Claim 3 A microneedle array according to claim 1, wherein the tip comprises an attachment forming the lower end of the tip, and the attachment is disposed below the base and the hollow portion. Claim 4 In paragraph 3, the tips are formed in plurality, and the plurality of tips are sequentially arranged in at least one of the length direction and the width direction, and the width direction and the length direction intersect each other and are parallel to the lower surface of the base, a microneedle array. Claim 5 In paragraph 3, the microneedle array, wherein the tip forms the shape of a wedge extended in the longitudinal direction. Claim 6 A microneedle array according to paragraph 3, comprising a plurality of tips arranged sequentially in a radial manner, each as the tip, wherein the attachment forms the shape of a ring. Claim 7 In claim 6, the plurality of tips form a concentric circle, a microneedle array. Claim 8 A base forming a constant thickness vertically; a tip protruding downward from the base and having a horizontal cross-sectional area that decreases as it goes downward; and a hollow portion penetrating the base and formed by being recessed into the tip, wherein, with respect to the vertical direction, the length of the hollow portion is less than or equal to the sum of the length of the base and the length of the tip, and the base, the tip, and the hollow portion satisfy the following Equation 7, [Equation 7] (Here, HH: length of the hollow portion, HT: length of the tip, HB: length of the base, WH: width of the bottom of the hollow portion, WT: width of the top of the tip) Microneedle array, wherein the length of the hollow portion, the length of the tip, and the length of the base are measured based on the vertical direction, and the width of the bottom of the hollow portion and the width of the top of the tip are measured based on the horizontal direction. Claim 9 A microneedle array according to claim 8, further comprising a coating layer laminated on the upper surface of the base and blocking the upper end of the hollow portion. Claim 10 In claim 8, the tip comprises an attachment forming the lower end of the tip, said attachment disposed below the base and said hollow portion, a microneedle array. Claim 11 A microneedle array according to claim 10, wherein the tips are formed in plurality, and the plurality of tips are sequentially arranged in at least one of the length direction and the width direction, and the width direction and the length direction intersect each other and are parallel to the lower surface of the base. Claim 12 In claim 10, the microneedle array, wherein the tip forms the shape of a wedge extended in the longitudinal direction. Claim 13 A microneedle array according to claim 10, comprising a plurality of tips arranged sequentially in a radial manner, each as the tip, wherein the attachment forms the shape of a ring. Claim 14 In paragraph 13, the above-mentioned plurality of tips form a concentric circle, a microneedle array. Claim 15 delete Claim 16 delete Claim 17 delete

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