MICROCURRENCY THERAPY

Abstract

MICROCURRENCY TREATMENT The invention relates to a system (900) for applying a composition to a portion of a subject's skin, the system comprising: an applicator capsule (100), including: a rolling ball (110) configured for rolling contact with the skin portion; a plurality of electrodes (130a, 130b) configured for transmitting an electric current through the skin portion; and a reservoir (204) configured for containing and releasing the composition; and a body (200), configured for reversible attachment to the applicator capsule (100), and including a non-contact piston configured to perform an operation of expelling the composition from the reservoir. Orifices (161a, 161b) in the applicator capsule fluidly connect the interior of the applicator capsule to an exterior of the capsule, for delivering the composition from the reservoir to the skin portion. Figure for the summary: Figure 4

Description

Title of the invention: MICROCURRENCY TREATMENT SUMMARY

[0001] In one aspect, the disclosure proposes a system for applying a composition to a portion of a subject's skin, the system comprising: an applicator capsule, including: a rolling ball configured for rolling contact with the subject's skin portion and a plurality of electrodes configured for transmitting an electric current through the subject's skin portion, and a reservoir configured to contain and release the composition therefrom; and a body, configured for reversible attachment of the applicator capsule to the body, and including a non-contact piston configured to expel the composition from the reservoir; wherein one or more orifices of the applicator capsule fluidly connect the interior of the applicator capsule to an exterior of the applicator capsule for delivering the composition from the reservoir to the skin portion.

[0002] In embodiments, the system further includes control circuitry configured to electronically control at least one contactless piston operation.

[0003] In embodiments, the system further comprises a control circuitry operationally connected to a microchip in the reservoir and configured to receive from it a signal corresponding to one or more compounds of the composition, wherein the control circuitry electronically controls the transmission of the electric current, based on a program selected by the control circuitry based at least in part on the signal, for the delivery of one or more compounds to the portion of skin of the subject.

[0004] In embodiments, one or more components of the composition comprise a large molecule, a small molecule, or both, and wherein the program configures the control circuitry for the transmission of electric current on the basis of the signal.

[0005] In embodiments, the non-contact piston responds to an activation of an electromagnet and at least one operation includes the activation of the electromagnet for the movement of the non-contact piston and the displacement of the composition from the reservoir through the inside of the body to the inside of the applicator capsule for expulsion from one or more orifices of the applicator capsule.

[0006] In embodiments, the plurality of electrodes is operationally coupled to circuitry configured to transmit an electrical stimulus through the portion of skin of the subject, wherein the electrical stimulus is configured and applied for a sufficient duration to induce a transmembrane voltage and to facilitate the transport of at least one compound of the composition across the portion of skin.

[0007] In embodiments, the electric current induces iontophoresis of at least one compound of the composition through the portion of skin.

[0008] In embodiments, a large molecule of the composition, a small molecule of the composition, or both, are transported through a dermal layer of the portion of skin by iontophoresis.

[0009] In some embodiments, the electric current includes a radio frequency (RF) heating electric current.

[0010] In embodiments, the RF heating electric current creates one or more microchannels in a dermal layer of the skin portion.

[0011] In embodiments, the RF heating electric current is transmitted at a frequency in the range of 100 kilohertz to 1 megahertz.

[0012] In one aspect, the disclosure proposes a method for administering a composition to a portion of a subject's skin, the method comprising: activating, with a system control circuitry, an electromagnet of the system to move a non-contact piston of the system and displace at least the portion of the composition from a reservoir for the expulsion of at least the portion of the composition from one or more orifices of the applicator capsule, in response to receiving, with a system control circuitry, a signal from a microchip of a reservoir of the system, wherein the reservoir contains at least a portion of the composition therein and the signal corresponds to one or more components of the composition in the reservoir;and the transmission, with the system's control circuitry, of an electric current through the subject's skin portion, wherein the transmission of the electric current is based on a program selected by the control circuitry on the basis, at least in part, of the signal.

[0013] In embodiments, the electric current includes the electrophoresis of at least one compound of the composition on the skin portion.

[0014] In embodiments, the electric current includes the iontophoresis of at least one compound of the composition through the skin portion.

[0015] In embodiments, the electric current includes an RF heating electric current.

[0016] The purpose of this summary is to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are described in greater detail below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of the drawings

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[0030] [Fig.1] Fig.1 shows a perspective view of an example applicator capsule, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig.2] Fig.2 shows a cross-sectional view of an example applicator capsule, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig.3] Fig.3 shows a cross-sectional view of an example applicator capsule, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig.4] The [Fig.4] shows an example of a formula and system cartridge, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig.5] Fig.5 shows a perspective view of an example system, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig.6] Fig.6 shows a perspective view of an example system, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig.7] The [Fig.7] shows an example component diagram of a sample system, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig.8] Fig.8 shows an example of program selection from a sample system, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig.9] Fig.9 shows an example of a method for using an application system to apply a formula to a portion of an individual's skin, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig. 10] The [Fig. 10] shows a perspective view of an example applicator capsule in an exploded configuration, showing an example piston and piston assembly, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig. 11] The [Fig. 11] shows a cross-sectional view of an example applicator capsule showing an example piston and piston assembly in a first position, according to aspects of disclosure. [Fig. 12] The [Fig. 12] shows a cross-sectional view of an example applicator capsule showing an example piston and piston assembly in a second position, according to aspects of disclosure. [Table 1] Table 1. Elements and descriptions of the drawings. Digital Label Description 100 Applicator Capsule 110 Roller Ball 111 Roller Ball Orifice 112 Formula Cartridge 113 Formula Cartridge Microchip 120 Contact face 121 Electrode orifice 130a Electrode 130b Electrode 130c Electrode 130d Electrode 140 Insert 141 Adapter 142a Locking groove 142b Locking groove 150 Electrode contact 160 Adapter 161a Orifice (outer portion) 161b Orifice (inner portion) 162 Interior 200 Body 201 Insert attachment 202 Body surface 203 Tank attachment 204 Tank 205a On button / control 205b Eject button / control 206 Status indicator 300 Application system 400 Application system 500a Radio frequency (RF) / ultrasonic heating 500b Electrophoresis and / or iontophoresis 600 System diagram Application 601 Applicator capsule 602 Microcurrent (pc) 603 Computing Circuitry 604 User Input 605 Pulse 606 Pulse 607 High Voltage 608 High Frequency 609 Electrode (Electroporation and / or Microcurrent) 610 Transducer (RF / Ultrasonic Heating) 611 Circuitry (Electroporation) 612 Circuitry (Microcurrent) 700 Application System Diagram 701 Applicator Capsule 702 Microcurrent (PC) 703 Microcurrent Control 704 Large Molecules 705 Small Molecules 706 Electroporation 707 Microcurrent 800 Method of Using an Application System to Apply a Formula to a Portion of an Individual's Skin 801 Start 802 Secure the Applicator 803 Identify the Formula 804 Move the Piston and the Formula 805 Dispense the Formula 806 Administer treatment 807 Apply formula 808 End 1000 Capsule 1105 Cap 1110 Rolling ball 1137 Solution regulator 1170 Rolling ball retainer 1150 Mounting end 1370 Solution regulator 1200 Body 1205 Well 1220 Reservoir 1250 Piston 1300 Cap 1350 Push rod 1400 Check valve 1450 Check valve support 1500 Authentication chip

[0031] The foregoing aspects and many associated advantages of the present invention will be more easily appreciated as they are better understood with reference to the detailed description that follows, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Detailed description

[0032] Iontophoresis is a non-invasive technique in which a physiologically acceptable amount of electric current (e.g., up to about 0.5 mA / cm² or typically 10 V or less) is used to facilitate the transdermal delivery of charged and / or neutral molecules. Iontophoresis does not tend to disrupt the skin barrier by promoting transdermal flow and acts directly on one or more compounds in a composition applied to the skin to deliver the compound into deeper layers of the skin. Electroporation applies a higher voltage pulse (typically about 100 V) for a very short duration (microseconds to milliseconds) to permeabilize the skin.

[0033] These techniques could potentially enable drug delivery through the skin and extend the scope of transdermal delivery to include not only small molecules, but also large molecules, such as protein drugs from the biotechnology industry. However, the potential of these techniques has not been fully realized due to the fact that the skin retains A barrier that limits or prevents the passage of molecules through it. Furthermore, iontophoresis and electrophoresis systems are typically configured for use with distinct classes of molecules delivered with different electrical currents or programs. A therapeutic composition that includes one or more biologically active molecules belonging to distinct classes may require both iontophoresis and electrophoresis systems, which is inconvenient for the user or clinician and can lead to poorer adherence to a treatment plan or other health complications due to inadequate treatment.

[0034] Consequently, there is a need for intradermal and transdermal therapeutic delivery systems configured for iontophoresis and electrophoresis, which can more efficiently deliver a wide range of molecule types to and through the skin, and which are configured to warm the compositions during use to relax the skin layers and widen the spaces between skin cells for more efficient delivery of the compounds into them. The present disclosure addresses these needs and other long-unmet needs in art.

[0035] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, an example of an applicator capsule 100 includes a rolling ball 110, positioned within a rolling ball orifice 111, which makes rolling contact with the skin of a subject and rolls over the skin when a contact face 120 is placed adjacent to the skin during use. In the embodiment shown, the applicator capsule 100 includes a plurality of electrodes, including electrodes 130a, 130b, 130c, and 130d, configured for transmitting an electrical current through the portion of the subject's skin during use. Although four electrodes are included in the example embodiment, other quantities of electrodes may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.Examples of alternative quantities of electrodes include, but are not limited to, one electrode, two electrodes, three electrodes, five electrodes, six electrodes, seven electrodes, eight electrodes, nine electrodes, ten electrodes, or more.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the applicator capsule 100 includes an insert 140 configured to be inserted into a body of the system for attaching the applicator capsule 100 to the body. The insert 140 shown includes an adapter 141 equipped with locking grooves 142a and 142b, which can slidably and reversibly lock onto the body when the applicator capsule 100 is attached to it. An electrode contact 150 is operationally connected to electrodes 130a, 130b, 130c, and 130d, via one or more electrical connections, for supplying electrical current from a source. power is supplied through electrode contact 150 to electrodes 130a, 130b, 130c and 130d. Although the insert 140 shown includes a substantially spherical cross-sectional shape with a flat portion for the adapter 141, other cross-sectional shapes may be implemented without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure, it being understood that the insert 140 should be able to be secured to the body of the system, and the body may optionally include a cavity of corresponding shape to receive the insert 140 therein.

[0037] In the embodiment of [Fig.2], an interior 162 of the applicator capsule 100 is fluidly connected to an interior of the body of the system by means of an orifice 161a at the level of an external portion of the applicator capsule 100 and an orifice 161b at the level of an internal portion of the applicator capsule 100. In the embodiment shown, the interior 162 of the applicator capsule 100 occupies a substantial or major part of the volume of the applicator capsule 100; however, in other embodiments, the interior 162 may occupy a smaller or minor part of the volume of the applicator capsule 100 without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The insert 140 may include an interface, such as an adapter 160, which serves as an interface with a correspondingly shaped interface within the body of the system to form a fluidic seal to prevent leakage of a composition thereof.During use of the example system shown, the composition flows from the interior of the system body into the interior 162 of the applicator capsule 100, and at least partially fills the interior 162 until it reaches the rollerball orifice 111. The composition flows through the rollerball orifice 111 and out of the applicator capsule 100, where it comes into contact with the rollerball 110 and the portion of the subject's skin during application.

[0038] In the embodiment of [Fig. 3], an interior 162 of the applicator capsule 100 is not fluidically connected to an interior of the system body, and does not include orifices as shown in [Fig. 2] (i.e., orifices 161a, 161b). Instead, in the embodiment of [Fig. 3], the interior 162 may include a composition within it, and the adapter 160 may be coupled, on a lower portion thereof, to a piston. With an upward movement of the piston, the adapter 160 can slide upward within the interior 162 and compress the composition therein, so that the composition is expelled through the rollerball orifice 11 and out of the applicator capsule 100, where it comes into contact with the rollerball 110 and the subject's skin during application. In some embodiments, after use, the applicator capsule 100 can be removed and cleaned for reuse.

[0039] As shown in [Fig. 4], an example of a 900 system for applying a composition to a portion of a subject's skin includes an applicator capsule 100, comprising a plurality of electrodes (130a, 130b, 130c, 130d) configured for transmitting an electrical current through the subject's skin portion, and a body 200, configured for reversible attachment of the applicator capsule 100 to it, and a reversibly attached formula cartridge 112 comprising a rolling ball 110 configured for rolling contact with the subject's skin portion. The formula cartridge 112 can be attached to the applicator capsule 100 and is configured to contain and release the composition from a reservoir within the formula cartridge 112, based on at least one operation of a non-contact piston of the body 200 for delivering the composition from the reservoir of the formula cartridge 112 to the skin portion.

[0040] As such, the rolling ball 110 can be an element of a formula cartridge 112, as shown by way of non-limiting example in [Fig. 4]. An example of a formula cartridge 112 of the system 900, according to embodiments, includes inside a composition for application to the subject's skin, and can be inserted into an applicator capsule 100 and thus be operationally connected to a body 200 of the system 900. In the embodiment shown, a piston can extend through an orifice 207 of the body 200 and an interior of the applicator capsule 100, and can mechanically expel the formula from the formula cartridge 112 with a movement of the piston. A power supply for the body 200 can be operationally connected to the applicator capsule 100 by means of an electrical connection 208, which can be configured to connect electrically to a corresponding electrical connection of the applicator capsule 100.In the embodiment shown, a formula cartridge microchip 113 is included and configured to allow identification of the composition within the formula cartridge and / or one or more of its components, for the selection of an application program by electroporation and / or iontophoresis of the composition, as described herein. Since the formula cartridge 112 can be easily removed from the device, it can be exchanged for alternative formula cartridges 112, for example, alternative compositions. In the embodiment shown, the device body 200 may not include a reservoir as in other embodiments, since the composition can be supplied by the formula cartridge 112, as shown.

[0041] As shown in [Fig. 5], an example of an application system 300 for applying a composition to a portion of a subject's skin may include a form factor that includes a body 200 with a body surface 202 that is formed and / or configured, for example, ergonomically shaped, to be grasped by a user for use of the system 300. In the embodiment shown, an applicator capsule 100 may be attached to the body 200 by means of a fastener of insert 201. The insert 201 fastening may include a snap-on fastening, for example, such that the adapter 141 (of [Fig. 1]) can be inserted into the body 200 and secured in place by the snap-on fastening of the insert 201 fastening, or alternatively, by locking it in place using locking grooves (142a, 142b of [Fig. 1]). Other fastening mechanisms may be implemented for the insert 201 fastening without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0042] In embodiments, the body 200 includes a power source (for example, a cell or battery) operationally connected to an actuator by means of one or more electrical couplings. The actuator can mechanically actuate a piston of the system to convey a portion of a composition from a reservoir 304 of the system, from the reservoir 204 through the body 200 and to the applicator capsule 100. The power source can be electrically coupled to the electrodes (130a, 130b, 130c, 130d of [Fig. 1]) for the transmission of electrical current to the electrodes based on a system program, for example.

[0043] In embodiments, the system 300 may include a reservoir 204 that can be attached to the body 200 by means of a reservoir fastener 203. The reservoir 204 may be reversibly attached to the body 200 and may be secured, for example, by means of a snap fastener or other fastening mechanism, and removed by reversing the snap fastener or other fastening mechanism. The reservoir 204 is configured to contain the composition inside and release the composition from it, such that the composition flows through an interior of the body into an interior of the applicator capsule (for example, 162 of [Fig. 2]) based on at least one operation of a piston or a piston without contact with the body.With the movement of the composition through the interior of the body and the interior of the applicator capsule, and out of the rolling ball orifice 111, the composition can effectively flow from the reservoir 204 through the body 200 of the system 300 and out of the applicator capsule 100, where it comes into contact with the skin and is ready to be applied by rolling onto the skin and electrically transmitted to and / or through one or more layers of the skin, as described herein.

[0044] In some embodiments, the system 300 can be controlled at least partially by a user via control circuitry, which may include a start button 205a and / or an eject button 205b operationally connected to the control circuitry by means of one or more electronic connections. In the embodiment shown, the start button 205a can be activated by a user to power on the system 300 or to activate a function of the system 300, such as a contactless piston operation to expel the composition, or a cleaning solution or liquid, from the system 300. In the embodiment shown, the eject button 205b The system can be activated by a user to eject the reservoir 204 from the body 200 of the system 300, for example, for replacing the reservoir 204 and / or cleaning or maintaining the system 300 or a component thereof. In the embodiment shown, a status indicator 206 is included and is operationally connected to the control circuitry, or to other circuitry of the system 300, to indicate the status of the system 300 to the user. The status indicator 206 can indicate the status of one or more system components, such as the charge level of a rechargeable battery in the system, the fill level of the reservoir, the need to clean the system or a component thereof, and the like.

[0045] Figure 6 shows another embodiment of an application system 400 for applying a composition to a portion of a subject's skin. The system 400 includes the body 200 and may include, in various aspects, an applicator capsule 100, a rolling ball configured for rolling contact with the subject's skin portion, and a plurality of electrodes. The system 400 may include one or more electrodes configured or configurable for radiofrequency (RF) heating or ultrasonic electrical transmission 500a, as well as one or more electrodes configured or configurable for electrophoresis and / or iontophoresis electrical transmission 500b, as in the embodiment shown.The electrodes can be operationally connected to a control circuit of the System 400, as well as to a system power source, such as a rechargeable battery, for the generation of one or more current patterns. These current patterns can be at least part of a program for delivering one or more molecules from the reservoir composition to the subject's skin portion. The program can be selected by the control circuitry based, at least in part, on the composition (or an identifying characteristic thereof), as described herein.

[0046] In some embodiments, a formula cartridge may include a microchip that corresponds to one or more compounds of a composition within the formula cartridge. The system may select, based on a composition identification characteristic obtainable by the system from the microchip, a program for administering therapeutic electrical current(s). The composition characteristics may include one or more molecular weights of one or more compounds, one or more ionic states of one or more compounds at a given pH and ionic strength of the composition, or similar characteristics. For example, larger molecules in a composition may require the application of a stronger current to efficiently transport the molecules to and through one or more layers of the skin. In some embodiments, a user may control one or more modes of operation, or programs, of the system to increase or decrease the current according to the user's preference.

[0047] In some embodiments, one or more components of the composition may be electrically resistive to provide a degree of electrical resistance to the composition as a whole; in this way, the electric current from an RF heating current or an ultrasonic electrical transmission encounters resistance with these one or more components, generating heat within the composition, which in turn warms the skin. In some embodiments, the system may create an alternating electric field with an oscillating frequency, and the resulting current may be introduced into the skin via one or more electrodes. In some embodiments, the current may heat the skin directly due to electrical resistance within the skin.In some embodiments, the current can heat the skin indirectly, by heating one or more components of the composition, and directly, in combination, for enhanced skin heating. In some embodiments, a frequency range of 300 kilohertz (kHz) to 1 megahertz (MHz) can be used. In some implementation examples, a frequency of 450 kHz can be used.

[0048] Accordingly, in certain aspects, the disclosure proposes an "intelligent" system comprising circuitry configured to implement all or part of a process, including, but not necessarily limited to, controlling the expulsion of the composition from the system, monitoring a level of the composition inside the tank, monitoring a charge level of the power source, and the like. In some embodiments, the circuitry of a device is configurable with a processor and processor-executable instructions stored on a non-transient machine-readable medium of the device. In some embodiments, a device includes a software application configured to implement all or part of one or more of the disclosure's methods or processes, in any order or combination. However, in some embodiments, a device includes dedicated hardware circuitry.Additional circuitry configuration of the device may include wireless communication or networking circuitry, for example, circuitry configured for a wireless connection, such as a Bluetooth® connection, a Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE) connection, and / or a Wi-Fi® connection, and / or a wired connection. The networking circuitry, in combination with other circuitry of the computing device, may be used to request, retrieve, and / or receive data from a computing device or a remote server, for example. In some embodiments, the device may be operated using a computing device, such as a smartphone or a personal computing device. by a user via a graphical user interface, as known in the art. In embodiments, the circuitry may include an operational connection of one or more sensors with the processor, or other circuitry, to perform logical operations and / or processes based on data received from one or more sensors, for example.

[0049] As shown in [Fig. 7], an example of a system 600 includes an applicator capsule 601 that can be operationally connected to the body by means of one or more operational connections, for example, physical, fluid, and electronic connections, for electronic and fluidic communication between the capsule 601 and the device body. The applicator capsule 601 includes one or more electrodes on it that are operationally connected to the control circuitry of the system 600 for the delivery of a microcurrent 602, for example, for the transmission of an electroporation current, an iontophoresis current, an RF heating current, or any combination thereof, to the portion of the subject's skin.

[0050] In the embodiment shown, the system 600 includes computer or computing circuitry 603, which may include control and / or direct control circuitry, or other circuitry of the system 600, to perform one or more operations of the system 600. The computing circuitry 603 may include hardware circuitry, processor circuitry, or both, configured to perform logic operations, such as turning on and off an electromagnet for the non-contact movement of the piston and the expulsion of the composition from the system 600, selecting and executing one or more programs for the delivery of microcurrent (e.g., electroporation, iontophoresis and / or RF heating current), monitoring the state of charge of a power source, monitoring the percentage of the composition used in the tank, and the like.The computing circuitry 603 may include a non-transient, computer-readable medium on which instructions are stored that, when executed by one or more processors, configure one or more processors to carry out all or part of a disclosure process or operation, in whole or in part, the steps being in any order. The system 600 may be configured to accept user input 604 from a user, which may include an enable or disable signal (for example, by using a power button), a status polling signal (for example, by using a power button or other control element), or the like.

[0051] The computing circuitry 603 commands, coordinates, directs, or otherwise enables the transmission of microcurrents as part of program execution for the administration of compositions to the skin. In some embodiments, the computing circuitry 603 allows the transmission of one or more pulses (605, 606) for the delivery of a current that is a high voltage 607 and / or a high frequency 608, by means of an electroporation circuitry 611 and / or a microcurrent circuitry 612. The computing circuitry 603 controls, coordinates, directs, or otherwise enables the transmission of RF heating current by means of the ultrasonic transducer circuitry 610. An electrode 609 can be configured and used for electrophoresis, iontophoresis, or both (sequentially and / or simultaneously), and the ultrasonic transducer circuitry 610 can be configured and used for RF heating current transmission.

[0052] In embodiments, the computing circuitry 603 can be configured to electronically control at least one operation of the non-contact piston. For example, the computing circuitry 603 can, as part of the execution of at least one composition application program, deliver an electric current to an electromagnet of the system to activate the electromagnet and attract or repel the non-contact piston, which may be magnetic and / or operationally connected to a magnet, for the movement of the non-contact piston and the displacement of the composition within the body of the system 600.

[0053] In embodiments, the computing circuitry 603 can be connected and configured operationally to receive a signal from a microchip in the reservoir that corresponds to one or more compounds of the composition in the reservoir. The control circuitry can thus identify the one or more compounds in the composition to be delivered to and / or through the skin, and can electronically control the transmission of the electric current, based on a program selected by the control circuitry, for the delivery of the one or more compounds to the portion of the subject's skin. For example, [Fig. 8] shows an example of program selection for an example of a system 700. In the system shown, a capsule 701 can be attached to the body of the device to deliver a microcurrent 702 based on an identification of the composition or one of its components.The device's control circuitry can receive a signal from the microchip, via wired and / or wireless transmission, for example, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) process, which corresponds to the identity of one or more components of the composition, or of the composition as a whole. The system 700 can select a microcurrent delivery program 703 based on the identity of one or more components or of the composition as a whole. For example, if one or more large molecules 704 are present in the composition as active ingredients to be delivered into the skin, the system can select a program including electroporation 706. large molecules 704. If one or more small molecules 705 are present in the composition as active ingredients to be delivered into the skin, the system can select a program that includes a microcurrent 707, for example, iontophoresis. In some embodiments, a program that includes only electroporation 706 (and not the microcurrent 707) is selected. In some embodiments, a program that includes only the microcurrent 707 (and not electroporation 706) is selected. In some embodiments, a program that includes both electroporation 706 and the microcurrent 707 is selected. In this way, in some embodiments, one or more components of the composition include a large molecule, a small molecule, or both, and the program configures the control circuitry for the transmission of electrical current based on the signal, for example, received from the microchip in the reservoir.

[0054] Accordingly, in some embodiments, iontophoresis delivers a large molecule of the composition, a small molecule of the composition, or both, through a dermal layer of the skin portion. In some embodiments, the electric current comprises a radiofrequency (RF) heating current. In some embodiments, the RF heating current creates one or more microchannels in a dermal layer of the skin portion. In some embodiments, the RF heating current is transmitted at a frequency in the range of 100 kHz to 1 MHz.

[0055] In another aspect, the disclosure proposes a method for administering a composition to a portion of a subject's skin, the method comprising: receiving, with a control circuitry of a system, a signal from a microchip of a reservoir of the system, in which the reservoir contains at least a portion of the composition inside and the signal corresponds to one or more components of the composition in the reservoir; activating, with a control circuitry of the system, an electromagnet of the system to move a non-contact piston of the system and move at least the portion of the composition from the reservoir through an interior of a body of the system to an interior of an applicator capsule of the system to expel at least the portion of the composition from one or more orifices of the applicator capsule;and the transmission, with the system's control circuitry, of an electric current through the portion of the subject's skin, wherein the transmission of the electric current is based on a program selected by the control circuitry on the basis, at least in part, of the signal. As shown in [Fig. 9] by way of non-limiting example, a method 800 for using a disclosure application system to apply a composition to a portion of a subject's skin comprises, in step 801, a starting step. In step 802, an applicator or reservoir filled with formula or composition is attached to the device; distribution including the body and other system elements; in step 803, the formula is identified by system control circuitry as it reads a contactless chip by means of signal reception, for example, with a contactless reader (e.g., an RFID reader); in step 804, the generation of a magnetic field to move the piston and move the composition from the reservoir; in step 805, the dispensing of the composition from the system as the piston moves; in step 806, the administration of one or more microcurrent treatments; in step 807, the application of the formula with a rolling ball; and in step 808, the end.

[0056] In embodiments, an electrical impedance may be delivered as at least part of an RF heating microcurrent, which may range from approximately 10 to 50 kOhms. In embodiments, electrical pulses may be delivered in short bursts, for example, a 1 ms burst every 100 ms (1% load). In embodiments, a 1% load, a 2% load, a 3% load, a 4% load, a 5% load, a 6% load, a 7% load, an 8% load, a 9% load, a 10% load, an 11% load, a 12% load, a 13% load 14%, a 15% charge, a 16% charge, a 17% charge 18%, a 19% charge, a 20% charge, a 21% charge of 22%, a charge of 23%, a charge of 24%, a charge of 25% or a charge A higher percentage load can be applied to an RF heating microcurrent. The percentage load can be calculated by dividing the electrical burst time by the total time and multiplying the result by 100%. As a person skilled in the art would understand, a higher intensity RF heating microcurrent can be applied at a lower percentage load to avoid skin overheating; similarly, a lower intensity RF heating microcurrent can be applied at a higher percentage load to ensure effective skin heating.

[0057] In some embodiments, electroporation is delivered before, during, and / or after iontophoresis and / or RF heating. In some embodiments, iontophoresis is delivered before, during, and / or after electroporation and / or RF heating. In some embodiments, RF heating is delivered before, during, and / or after electroporation and / or iontophoresis.

[0058] By way of example of a method, one or more pairs of electrodes of the system may operate in simultaneous mode, as follows:

[0059] RF heating activated for a 90% load;

[0060] RF heating off, duration during which electrophoresis and / or iontophoresis are applied.

[0061] As another example of a method, one or more pairs of electrodes of the system can be used in sequential mode, as follows:

[0062] RF heating activated for a 50% load;

[0063] RF heating deactivated, duration during which the skin cools sufficiently to maintain the heating effect and the opening of the pores;

[0064] Electrophoresis and / or iontophoresis are applied.

[0065] As shown in [Fig. 10], an example of an applicator capsule 1000 is depicted in an exploded view, and shows an example of a piston assembly. A capsule 1000 may include a cap 1105, a rolling ball 1110, a mounting tip 1150, a body 1200, a piston 1250, a plug 1300, a push rod 1350, and an authentication chip 1500. The example piston assembly shown, as well as other structures shown to allow movement of the composition inside the capsule 1000, may be incorporated into various embodiments that include a rolling ball and electrodes, as described herein. In some embodiments, the cap 1105 may be disposed at a first end of the body 1200 and configured to attach to the body 1200.For example, the cap 105 can be screwed and tightened by twisting onto the body 1200, which can also be screwed on (as shown), or the cap 1105 can be tightened by snapping onto the body 1200. The mounting tip 1150 can be positioned at the first end of the body 1200. The cap 1105, the mounting tip 1150, the body 1200, the piston 1250 and the cap 1300 can be made from a polymer material. Non-limiting examples of materials for the cap 1105, the mounting tip 1150, the body 1200, the piston 1250 and the plug 1300 (separately or together) may include thermoplastic elastomer, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PETG), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (Nylon), polystyrene (PS), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or any combination thereof.For example, all parts can be made of PP. In another example, cap 1105 can be made of PP, mounting tip 1150 can be made of PETG, body 1200 can be made of PP, piston 1250 can be made of LDPE and plug 1300 can be made of PP.

[0066] The body 1200 may have a substantially cylindrical shape and may include a first opening at the first end and a reservoir 1220 at the second end, wherein an internal diameter of the first opening is larger than an internal diameter of the reservoir 1220. Both the first opening and the reservoir 1220 may be substantially annular. The first opening of the body 1200 may include a substantially straight stroke length having the internal diameter of the first opening. The first opening may narrow until it reaches the The internal diameter of the 1220 reservoir. The 1220 reservoir can be substantially straight and connected to the conical portion extending from the first substantially straight stroke length. It can be appreciated that the cross-sectional shape of the 1200 body can be manufactured in any of a myriad of other shapes, for example, triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, or similar.

[0067] The first opening can be configured to contain the mounting tip 1150. The mounting tip 1150 can include an external shape configured to fit by pushing into the first opening, wherein the shape of the mounting tip 1150 can follow the contour of the substantially straight stroke length and the conical portion extending from the substantially straight stroke length. Thus, the mounting tip 1150 can form a liquid-tight seal with the first end of the body 1200. In some embodiments, the mounting tip 1150 can be manufactured as part of the body 1200 at the first end of the body 1200. For example, the mounting tip 1150 and the body 1200 can be molded together as a single piece. The mounting tip 1150 can be configured to hold the rolling ball 1110, wherein an inner shape of the mounting tip 1150 is substantially hemispherical.One end of the mounting fitting 1150 may include a roller ball retainer 1170. The roller ball retainer 1170 may be an annular extrusion of material from the first end of the mounting fitting 1150, which may taper slightly towards the inside of the mounting fitting 1150, so that the internal diameter of the roller ball retainer 1170 is narrower than the diameter of the roller ball 1110. The roller ball 1110 may be installed in the mounting fitting 1150 by pushing the roller ball 1110 through the opening of the roller ball retainer 1170.The roller ball retainer 1170 can deform elastically outwards (i.e., the opening of the roller ball retainer 1170 widens and can thus be made of deformable polymer) to accommodate the roller ball 1110 when the roller ball 1110 is pushed through, and then return to its original internal diameter. The roller ball 1110 can be made of glass, metal, or polymer, such as those described for the cap 1105, the mounting tip 1150, the body 1200, the piston 1250, and the plug 1300.

[0068] The piston 1250 and the plug 1300 can be arranged at the second end of the body 1200. The piston 1250 can have a shape substantially similar to a disc and can include an external diameter equal to, or slightly smaller than, the internal diameter of the reservoir 1220 so that a liquid-tight seal can be formed between the piston 1250 and the inside of the reservoir 1220. The plug 1300 can also have a shape substantially similar to a disc. The piston 1250 can be installed in the reservoir 1220 and the plug 1300 can be installed at the second end of the body 1200, in which the plug 1300 prevents the piston 1250 from exiting. The plug 1300 can be adjusted by pushing, by snapping, by twisting, or chemically fastened to the other end of the body 1200. The plug 1300 may include a hole in the center, configured to allow the push rod 1350 to pass through it reversibly. Alternatively, the plug 1300 can be manufactured as part of the body 1200 at the other end of the body 1200. For example, the plug 1300 and the body 1200 can be cast together as a single piece. It can be noted that the piston 1250 and the plug 1300 can be shaped according to the cross-sectional shape of the body 1200, and the disc-like shape is just one example.

[0069] A first end of the push rod 1350 can be configured to abut against the piston 1250. For example, the piston 1250 may include a molded indentation opening toward the second end of the body 1200 having a shape complementary to the first end of the push rod 1350. A second end of the push rod 1350 (not shown) can be attached to a metering device (not shown) configured to move the push rod 1350 a predetermined distance. The metering device may be in the form of an applicator, and such an applicator would be configured to receive the capsule. The abutment of the first end of the push rod 1350 against the piston 1250 thus causes the piston 1250 to move toward the first end of the body (i.e., into the reservoir 1220) by the same predetermined distance as the push rod 1350.

[0070] The reservoir 1220 can be configured to contain a composition, for example, a solution. In some embodiments, the solution may be a cosmetic. In some embodiments, the composition may comprise one or more small molecules to be delivered to and / or through the skin, one or more large molecules to be delivered to and / or through the skin, or any combination thereof.

[0071] In embodiments, the composition may be a topical medicinal product, such as a serum, ointment, lotion, oil, essential oil, cream, gel, paste, foam, water-based mixture, and alcohol-based mixture (e.g., a tincture), or any combination thereof. The topical medicinal product may include active ingredients, such as a drug content, for treating skin conditions, and / or may include nutrients, for example, vitamins and minerals.

[0072] Figure 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the capsule 1000, by way of non-limiting example. The mounting tip 1150 may include a well 1205. The well 1205 may be the volume between the rolling ball 1110 and the inside of the mounting tip 1150. The well 1205 may be configured to receive a predetermined volume of solution from reservoir 1220. The mounting fitting 1150 may include a solution regulator 1137 disposed at a second end of the mounting fitting 1150 through which the predetermined volume of solution is transferred from reservoir 1220 to well 1205. The solution regulator 1137 may be an orifice or a partially open orifice through which the solution flows to well 1205, in which the solution regulator 1137 may be configured to meter the predetermined volume of solution passing through and prevent an undesired reverse flow of solution from well 1205 to reservoir 1220.

[0073] In some embodiments, the solution regulator 1137 may be provided by a check valve 1400. The solution regulator 1137 may be substantially open and configured to allow the attachment or insertion of the check valve 1400. The check valve 1400 may be installed inside or proximal to the second end of the mounting fitting 1150 and held in place by a check valve bracket 1450. The check valve 1400 and the check valve bracket 1450 may be installed in the tank 1220 through the second end of the body 1200. For example, the check valve 1400 may be installed first and the check valve bracket 1450 may be installed afterward, wherein the check valve bracket 1450 includes features that allow it to be adjusted by snapping into additional features of the 1220 tank.In another non-limiting example, the check valve 1400 can be coupled to the check valve support 1450 before installing both in the tank 1220. In yet another non-limiting example, the check valve 1400 and the check valve support 1450 can be chemically bonded to the tank 1220, for example, by adhesive, epoxy, sealant, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the check valve 1400 and the check valve support 1450 can be manufactured as a single unit; that is, the check valve 1400 includes features that allow it to snap into the complementary features of the tank without requiring the separate check valve support 1450. Non-limiting examples of materials for the 1450 check valve support include thermoplastic elastomer, PP, PETG, ABS, PC, Nylon, PS, LDPE, HDPE, and any combination thereof.

[0074] In embodiments, the check valve 1400 may be a unidirectional valve allowing solution transfer in only one flow direction (or preventing solution transfer in said flow direction when a flow stoppage is desired). The check valve 1400 may be a deformable diaphragm held in position by tension, in which the tensioned position forms a liquid-tight seal. For example, the check valve 1400 may be made of LDPE or PETG. In response to a force applied to the deformable diaphragm Coming from a single direction, the diaphragm can be deflected in the direction of the applied force. Upon release / cessation of the applied force, the tension on the diaphragm can return it to its undeflected orientation. Thus, the check valve 1400 can be in one of two states. As shown in [Fig. 11], a first state can be closed and liquid-tight, in which the check valve 1400 does not allow the transfer of solution from the tank 1220 to the well 1205. It may be understood by those skilled in the art that other one-way valves can be used without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure, for example, a spring-loaded ball design.

[0075] Figure 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the capsule 1000 during the movement of the push rod 1350, by way of non-limiting example. A second state of the check valve 1400 can be opened, in which the diaphragm of the check valve 1400 is deflected, thus breaking the liquid-tight seal and allowing the transfer of solution through the check valve 1400.

[0076] In some embodiments, the push rod 1350 can be moved translationally a predetermined distance. The push rod 1350 can simultaneously move the piston 1250 translationally a predetermined distance in the direction of the first end of the body 1200. Since the solution in the reservoir 1220 may not be compressible, the force of the piston 1250 pushing on the solution can cause the check valve 1400 to change from the first state (closed) to the second state (open). The open check valve 1400 can then allow the predetermined volume of solution from the reservoir 1220 to the well 1205 to be transferred. The rolling ball 1110 can be spherical and include a first portion of surface in contact with the solution that has been transferred to the well 1205. The rolling ball 1110 can include a second portion of surface exposed to the outside and configured to come into contact with the skin of a user.The rolling ball 1110 can be configured to roll over the user's skin and transfer the predetermined volume of solution, for example, topical medication, from well 1205 to the user's skin. As the rolling ball 1110 rotates over the user's skin and deposits the solution, the second surface portion rolls back into well 1205 and is re-coated with more solution. Notably, the mounting tip 1150 can be manufactured to include some clearance between the inside of the mounting tip 1150 and the rolling ball 1110 to allow the rolling ball 1110 to roll easily and facilitate re-coating of the rolling ball 1110 without the inside of the mounting tip 1150 scraping away the solution coating as the rolling ball 1110 rolls.

[0077] The predetermined translation distance of the push rod 1135 can be determined by calculating the distance required for the displacement of the piston 1250 in order to to move the predetermined volume of solution into reservoir 1220. The maximum predetermined volume of solution transferred from reservoir 1220 can be determined by calculating the volume of solution that well 1205 is capable of holding. The predetermined volume of solution actually transferred from reservoir 1220 to well 1205 can be determined by the dosing device. For example, the user might be attempting to complete a recommended regimen for treating a skin condition. Thus, the user might require a specific dosage of topical medication for application to the user's skin, and the dosing device can be configured to transfer the predetermined volume of solution from reservoir 1220 to well 1205 at a predetermined frequency.For example, the dosing device can transfer 0.3 mL of solution daily over a 14-day treatment plan, where the device is configured to allow the user to apply the solution for a predefined duration, such as 3 minutes per day. An embedded chip (not shown) in the dosing device can record user usage and a piston position (1250). When the piston position (1250) is determined to correspond to the 14th day of treatment, the dosing device can notify the user to replace the capsule (1000). Upon confirmation that the user has removed the capsule, the dosing device can adjust and reset the piston position (1250) to a position corresponding to the start of the 14-day treatment plan.Furthermore, the dosing device can reset the embedded chip to start recording user usage again.

[0078] Advantageously, the integrated solution regulation feature, i.e. the check valve 1400, can prevent the transfer of excess solution to the well 1205 once the piston 1250 stops and the force release (and the tension on the check valve 1400) closes the check valve 1400. Therefore, this prevents the user from applying too much solution, which can be important when the solution is a topical drug including a particular active ingredient, for example a medication, which should not be overdosed.Furthermore, this can be facilitated by the dosing device in which the capsule 1000 is installed, in which the dosing device prevents the user from overdosing by only making the piston 1250 move via the push rod 1350 a predetermined number of times in a predetermined time period, for example once a day, and not more frequently than programmed regardless of the user input (for example, the user requesting another dose from the dosing device). NON-EXHAUSTIVE METHODS

[0079] Although general features of the disclosure are described and shown, and specific features of the disclosure are presented in the claims, the following non-limiting embodiments relate to features, and combinations of features, that are explicitly contemplated as forming part of the disclosure. The following non-limiting embodiments contain elements that are modular and can be combined with each other in any number, order, or combination to form a new non-limiting embodiment, which can itself be further combined with other non-limiting embodiments.

[0080] Embodiment 1. System for applying a composition to a portion of skin of a subject, the system comprising: an applicator capsule, comprising: a rolling ball configured for rolling contact with the portion of skin of the subject and a plurality of electrodes configured for transmitting an electric current through the portion of skin of the subject, and a reservoir configured for containing and releasing the composition therefrom; and a body, configured for reversible attachment of the applicator capsule to the body, and comprising a non-contact piston configured for expelling the composition from the reservoir; wherein one or more orifices of the applicator capsule fluidly connect the interior of the applicator capsule to an exterior of the applicator capsule for delivering the composition from the reservoir to the portion of skin.

[0081] Embodiment 2. System according to embodiment 1 or any other embodiment, further comprising control circuitry configured to electronically control at least one contactless piston operation.

[0082] Embodiment 3. System according to any one of embodiments 1 and 2 or any other embodiment, further comprising a control circuitry operationally connected to a microchip of the reservoir and configured to receive from it a signal corresponding to one or more compounds of the composition, wherein the control circuitry electronically controls the transmission of the electric current, based on a program selected by the control circuitry based at least in part on the signal, for the delivery of one or more compounds to the portion of skin of the subject.

[0083] Embodiment 4. System according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3 or any other embodiment, wherein one or more components of the composition comprise a large molecule, a small molecule, or both, and wherein the program configures the control circuitry for the transmission of electric current on the basis of the signal.

[0084] Embodiment 5. System according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4 or any other embodiment, wherein the non-contact piston responds to a activation of an electromagnet and at least one operation includes activation of the electromagnet for contactless piston movement and displacement of the reservoir composition through the inside of the body into the inside of the applicator capsule for expulsion from one or more orifices of the applicator capsule.

[0085] Embodiment 6. System according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5 or any other embodiment, wherein the plurality of electrodes is operationally coupled to circuitry configured to transmit an electrical stimulus through the portion of skin of the subject, wherein the electrical stimulus is configured and is applied for a duration sufficient to induce a transmembrane voltage and to facilitate the transport of at least one compound of the composition through the portion of skin.

[0086] Embodiment 7. System according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6 or any other embodiment, wherein the electric current induces iontophoresis of at least one compound of the composition through the skin portion.

[0087] Embodiment 8. System according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7 or any other embodiment, wherein a large molecule of the composition, a small molecule of the composition, or both, are transported through a dermal layer of the portion of skin by iontophoresis.

[0088] Embodiment 9. System according to any one of embodiments 1 to 8 or any other embodiment, wherein the electric current includes a radio frequency (RF) heating electric current.

[0089] Embodiment 10. System according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9 or any other embodiment, wherein the RF heating electric current creates one or more microchannels in a dermal layer of the skin portion.

[0090] Embodiment 11. System according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10 or any other embodiment, wherein the RF heating electric current is transmitted at a frequency in the range of 100 kilohertz to 1 megahertz.

[0091] Embodiment 12. A method for administering a composition to a portion of a subject's skin, the method comprising: activating, with a system control circuit, an electromagnet of the system to move a non-contact piston of the system and displace at least the portion of the composition from a reservoir to expel at least the portion of the composition from one or more orifices of the applicator capsule, in response to receiving, with a system control circuit, a signal from a microchip of a reservoir of the system, wherein the reservoir contains at least a portion of the composition and the signal corresponds to one or more components of the composition in the reservoir; and the transmission, with the system's control circuitry, of an electric current through the subject's skin portion, wherein the transmission of the electric current is based on a program selected by the control circuitry on the basis at least in part of the signal.

[0092] Embodiment 13. Method according to embodiment 12 or any other embodiment, wherein the electric current includes the electrophoresis of at least one compound of the composition on the skin portion.

[0093] Embodiment 14. Method according to any one of the embodiments 12 to 12 or any other embodiment, wherein the electric current includes the iontophoresis of at least one compound of the composition through the skin portion.

[0094] Embodiment 15. Method according to any one of embodiments 12 to 14 or any other embodiment, wherein the electric current includes an RF heating electric current.

[0095] Although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made to them without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. System (300, 400, 900) for applying a composition to a portion of a subject's skin, the system comprising: an applicator capsule (100), comprising: a rolling ball (110) configured for rolling contact with the subject's skin portion; a plurality of electrodes (130a, 130b) configured for transmitting an electric current through the subject's skin portion; and a reservoir (204) configured for containing and releasing the composition therefrom; and a body (200), configured for reversibly attaching the applicator capsule (100) thereto, and comprising a non-contact piston configured to perform an operation of expelling the composition from the reservoir; in which one or more orifices (161a, 161b) of the applicator capsule fluidly connect the inside of the applicator capsule to an outside of the applicator capsule for the delivery of the reservoir composition to the skin portion.

2. System (300, 400, 900) according to claim 1, further comprising a control circuitry configured to electronically control the operation carried out by the contactless piston.

3. System (300, 400, 900) according to claim 1, further comprising a control circuitry operationally connected to a microchip (113) of the reservoir and configured to receive a signal from it corresponding to one or more compounds of the composition, wherein the control circuitry electronically controls the transmission of the electric current, based on a program selected by the control circuitry based at least in part on the signal, for the delivery of one or more compounds to the portion of skin of the subject.

4. System (300, 400, 900) according to claim 3, configured so that the program configures the control circuitry for the transmission of electric current on the basis of the signal.

5. A system according to claim 1, configured such that the non-contact piston responds to an activation of an electromagnet, and the operation performed by the non-contact piston includes the activation of the electromagnet for the movement of the non-contact piston and the displacement of the reservoir composition (204) through the interior of the body (200) into the interior of the applicator capsule (100) for expulsion from one or more orifices of the applicator capsule.

6. System according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of electrodes (130a, 130b) is operationally coupled to circuitry configured to transmit an electrical stimulus through the portion of skin of the subject.

7. System (300, 400, 900) according to claim 1, configured so that the electric current transmitted by the plurality of electrodes induces the iontophoresis of at least one compound of the composition through the portion of skin.

8. System (300, 400, 900) according to claim 7, configured to transport one or more molecules of the composition through a dermal layer of the portion of skin, by iontophoresis.

9. System (300, 400, 900) according to claim 1, wherein the electric current comprises a radio frequency (RF) heating electric current capable of creating one or more microchannels in a dermal layer of the skin portion.

10. System (300, 400, 900) according to claim 9, wherein the radio frequency heating electric current is transmitted at a frequency in the range of 100 kilohertz to 1 megahertz.

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