Application Kit

Abstract

An application kit according to the present invention includes an applicator and a stage. The applicator comprises: a body which has a bottom part that contacts the skin, a top part that opposes the bottom part, and a side part that extends along the height direction from the bottom part toward the top part; a switch which has an arm that is attached to the side part so as to extend along a lateral direction from the side part toward the center of the body, and a piston that is provided at a free end of the arm; and a stopper which supports a microneedle device disposed inside the body so as to be positioned between the piston and the skin. The stage includes a columnar part for supporting the microneedle device. The columnar part that supports the microneedle device is inserted into the body toward the piston, and in response thereto, the microneedle device enters between the piston and the stopper and is supported by the stopper.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] One aspect of this disclosure relates to an application kit. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an application device comprising a housing and an impactor that collides with a microneedle array to accelerate the microneedles toward a target site. Patent Document 2 describes a device comprising a microneedle array and a housing in which the microneedle array is arranged and which defines a chamber, wherein the microneedles penetrate the surface of the body. Patent Document 3 describes a microneedle-based transdermal drug delivery device for administering liquid drugs to the user's skin. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2008-543527 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 2017-509449 [Patent Document 3] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0296824 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] In the application device described in Patent Document 1, the microneedle array is supported by a patch attached to the application device. When an impactor collides with the microneedle array, which is supported by the patch, the microneedles are accelerated toward the target site.

[0005] As described above, before applying the microneedle device to the skin, the microneedle device is set in the applicator. To ensure smooth application of the microneedle device to the skin, it is desirable that the microneedle device be easily set in the applicator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An application kit relating to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an applicator for applying a microneedle device to skin, and a stage for positioning the microneedle device within the applicator, wherein the applicator comprises a body having a bottom that contacts the skin, a top opposite the bottom, and a side extending along the height direction from the bottom to the top, a switch having an arm attached to the side extending along the lateral direction from the side toward the center of the body, and a piston provided at the free end of the arm which is pushed toward the skin by the user, and a stopper for supporting a microneedle device positioned within the body between the piston and the skin, wherein the stage comprises a columnar portion extending along the height direction for supporting the microneedle device, and in response to the columnar portion supporting the microneedle device being inserted into the body toward the piston, the microneedle device enters between the piston and the stopper and is supported by the stopper.

[0007] In this aspect, in response to the columnar portion supporting the microneedle device being inserted into the main body toward the piston, the microneedle device enters between the piston and the stopper and is supported by the stopper. This allows the microneedle device to be easily placed inside the applicator from outside the applicator. Therefore, the microneedle device can be easily set in the applicator. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, the microneedle device can be easily set into the applicator.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] [Figure 1] It is a plan view of the applicator according to the first example seen from above. [Figure 2] It is a perspective sectional view taken along line II-II shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a perspective view of the applicator according to the first example seen from below. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing the flow until the microneedle device is applied to the skin. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view of the application kit according to the first example seen from above. [Figure 6] It is a sectional view taken along line VI-VI shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing the flow until the microneedle device is placed in the applicator. [Figure 8] It is a plan view of the applicator according to the second example seen from above. [Figure 9] It is a perspective sectional view taken along line IX-IX shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] It is a perspective view of the applicator according to the second example seen from below. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing the flow until the microneedle device is applied to the skin. [Figure 12] It is a perspective view of the application kit according to the second example seen from above. [Figure 13] It is a sectional view taken along line XIII-XIII shown in FIG. 12. [Figure 14] It is a plan view of the applicator according to the third example seen from above. [Figure 15] It is a perspective sectional view taken along line XV-XV shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] It is a perspective sectional view taken along line XVI-XVI shown in FIG. 14. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing the state where the microneedle device is set in the applicator. [Figure 18] This diagram shows the process by which a fingernail grasps a microneedle device. [Figure 19] This is a top-down perspective view of the application kit relating to the third example. [Figure 20] This is a plan view of the applicator relating to the fourth example, seen from above. [Figure 21] This is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line XXI-XXI shown in Figure 20. [Figure 22] This diagram shows the microneedle device set in the applicator. [Figure 23] This is a top-down perspective view of the application kit relating to the fourth example. [Figure 24] This is a plan view of the applicator relating to the fifth example, seen from above. [Figure 25] This is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line XXV-XXV shown in Figure 24. [Figure 26] This is a top-down perspective view of the application kit relating to the fifth example. [Figure 27] This is a plan view of the applicator for the sixth example, seen from above. [Figure 28] This is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line XXVIII-XXVIII shown in Figure 27. [Figure 29] This is a top-down perspective view of the application kit relating to the sixth example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes various examples in this disclosure in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the description of the drawings, the same or equivalent elements are denoted by the same reference numeral, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0011] [overview] The applicator relating to this disclosure is an auxiliary device used to apply a microneedle device for administering an arbitrary active ingredient (e.g., a drug) into a living organism to the skin. By using the applicator, the user can apply the microneedle device to the skin with more appropriate force than when applying the microneedle device directly by hand. Applying a microneedle device to the skin means that the user pushes the microneedle device toward the skin by operating the applicator, causing one or more microneedles provided on the microneedle device to come into contact with or penetrate the skin.

[0012] The microneedle device to be applied to the skin is set in the applicator. In this disclosure, the state in which the microneedle device to be applied to the skin is set in the applicator is also referred to as the set state. The state in which the microneedle device is not set in the applicator is also referred to as the natural state.

[0013] In one example, the applicator is provided as a component of an application kit. The application kit comprises the applicator and a stage for setting a microneedle device within the applicator. The application kit may further comprise the microneedle device.

[0014] [Applicator for the first example] The structure of the applicator 1A in the first example will be explained with reference to Figures 1 to 4. Figure 1 is a plan view of the applicator 1A seen from above. Figure 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line II-II shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the applicator 1A seen from below. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the flow from the state in which the microneedle device is set in the applicator 1A to the application of the microneedle device to the skin. Figures 1 to 3 show the applicator 1A in its natural state.

[0015] Applicator 1A comprises a body 2, a switch 3, at least one stopper 4, at least one rib 5, at least one canopy 6, and a recovery mechanism 7. The material of applicator 1A is, for example, a synthetic or natural resin material such as ABS resin, polystyrene, polypropylene, polyacetal (POM), polycarbonate, polybutylene terephthalate, polyamide, polyetheretherketone, polyethylene, or polyethylene terephthalate. The material of applicator 1A may also be silicon, silicon dioxide, ceramic, or metal (stainless steel, titanium, nickel, molybdenum, chromium, cobalt, etc.). Alternatively, glass fibers or carbon fibers may be added to the above resin material to further increase the strength of applicator 1A. The material of applicator 1A may also be a mixture of two or more materials selected from the above materials. As an example, applicator 1A is formed integrally by introducing the above material into a mold.

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 and 4, the microneedle device 11 has a circular shape. The shape of the microneedle device 11 may be any shape, such as a square, ellipse, crescent, or other polygon. In Figure 1, the outer edge of the microneedle device 11 in the set state is shown by a dotted line. The microneedle device 11 comprises one or more microneedles 11a and a main surface 11b that supports the one or more microneedles 11a. The main surface 11b comprises a peripheral portion 11c that defines the outer edge of the microneedle device 11 and a platform surface 11d that is formed inside the peripheral portion 11c and raised from the peripheral portion 11c, and supports the one or more microneedles 11a. The platform surface 11d is an octagonal surface located inside the outer edge of the microneedle device 11. The shape of the platform surface 11d may be any shape, such as a square, circle, ellipse, crescent, or other polygon. The microneedles 11a are provided on the platform surface 11d and not on the peripheral edge 11c. The microneedle device 11 further comprises side surfaces 11e extending in the thickness direction and circumferential direction. When viewed from the thickness direction of the microneedle device 11, the side surfaces 11e coincide with the outer edge of the microneedle device 11. The peripheral edge 11c is the portion including the side surfaces 11e.

[0017] The main surface 11b does not necessarily have a platform surface 11d. In this case, the main surface 11b is a uniformly flat surface that does not have a stepped structure that distinguishes the peripheral portion 11c from the platform surface 11d, and the microneedles 11a are provided on this flat surface.

[0018] As the material for the microneedle device 11, for example, silicon, silicon dioxide, ceramics, metals (stainless steel, titanium, nickel, molybdenum, chromium, cobalt, etc.), synthetic or natural resin materials may be used. Alternatively, considering the antigenicity of the microneedle 11a and the unit cost of the material, biodegradable polymers such as polylactic acid, polyglycolide, polylactic acid-co-polyglycolide, pullulan, caprolactone, polyurethane, and polyanhydride may be used, or non-degradable polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, cyclic olefin copolymer, polycarbonate, polymethacrylic acid, polymethyl methacrylate, rigid vinyl chloride, ethylene vinyl acetate, polytetrafluoroethylene, tetrafluoroethylene-ethylene copolymer, polyoxymethylene, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer, polyetheretherketone, and polystyrene may be used. Alternatively, liquid crystal polymers such as thermotropic liquid crystal polymers may be used. Alternatively, polysaccharides such as hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate, pullulan, dextran, dextrin, or chondroitin sulfate, or cellulose derivatives may be used. Considering the possibility that the microneedles 11a may break on the skin, biodegradable resins may be used, for example, polylactic acid. Polylactic acid includes polylactic acid homopolymers such as poly-L-lactic acid and poly-D-lactic acid, poly-L / D-lactic acid copolymers, and mixtures thereof, and any of these may be used. The larger the average molecular weight of the polylactic acid, the stronger it becomes; for example, polylactic acid with an average molecular weight of 40,000 to 100,000 may be used. The parts of the microneedle device 11 other than the microneedles 11a and the microneedles 11a may be made of the same material, or they may be made of different materials.

[0019] The main surface 11b is the base for supporting the microneedle 11a. The area of ​​the main surface 11b is 0.5 cm². 2 ~300cm 2 But that's fine, 1cm 2 ~100cm 2It may also be 1 cm 2 ~50 cm 2 It may also be. Alternatively, the area of the main surface 11b is 0.5 cm 2 ~10 cm 2 0.5 cm 2 ~5 cm 2 1 cm 2 ~5 cm 2 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​, 640 pieces / cm 2 , or 340 strands / cm 2 However, this is acceptable. The lower limit of density is calculated from the number of microneedles that can administer 1 mg of the active ingredient and the required area. The upper limit of density is the limit value considering the shape of the microneedles.

[0022] The lower limit of the length of the microneedle 11a may be 20 μm, 50 μm, 150 μm, 200 μm, or 300 μm, and the upper limit may be 1200 μm, 900 μm, or 500 μm. The length of the microneedle 11a is the distance from the bottom, which connects to the platform surface 11d, to the tip. The length of the microneedle 11a is set to 20 μm or more to ensure transdermal absorption of the active ingredient. By setting the length of the microneedle 11a to 900 μm or less, it is possible to avoid contact between the microneedle 11a and nerves, thereby reducing the possibility of pain and avoiding the possibility of bleeding. If the length of the microneedle 11a is 500 μm or less, the amount of active ingredient that should enter the skin can be administered efficiently, and it becomes possible to administer the active ingredient without perforating the basement membrane, for example. For example, the length of the microneedles 11a is typically selected so as not to penetrate the stratum corneum of the skin during normal use, although some microneedles 11a may penetrate the stratum corneum. That is, the epidermis is stretched and thinned by the microneedles 11a, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate the now more permeable epidermis, but some of the active ingredients may also enter the skin through holes formed in the stratum corneum.

[0023] In the example in Figure 4, the microneedle 11a has a three-dimensional shape. For example, the microneedle 11a may be a cone or any pyramidal shape such as a square pyramid. The microneedle 11a does not have to be conical; for example, its tip may be flat or rounded. A flat or rounded tip may be obtained by intentional processing, or it may be obtained as a result without such processing. If the tip is flat, the area of ​​the flat part is 20 to 600 μm². 2 Alternatively, 50-250 μm 2This is also acceptable. If the tip is rounded, the radius of curvature of the tip may be 2 to 100 μm or 5 to 30 μm.

[0024] In one example, the microneedle 11a may or may not be pre-coated with the active ingredient. If the microneedle 11a is not coated with the active ingredient, the active ingredient may be administered by applying it to the skin and then applying the microneedle device 11 to that area using the applicator 1A. Alternatively, the active ingredient may be administered by applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin using the applicator 1A and then applying the active ingredient to the application site.

[0025] The main body 2 is a roughly cylindrical structure that houses the various components such as the switch 3. The main body 2 has a bottom portion 21, a top portion 22, a first side portion 23 (side portion), and a second side portion 24. The bottom portion 21 is the part that contacts the skin when the applicator 1A is placed on the skin to apply the microneedle device 11 to the skin. The bottom portion 21 is roughly circular in shape. An opening 21a for inserting the microneedle device 11 into the main body 2 is formed approximately in the center of the bottom portion 21. The top portion 22 is the part opposite the bottom portion 21 and is therefore located away from the skin when the applicator 1A is placed on the skin.

[0026] In the following explanation, the direction in which the bottom 21 and the top 22 face each other is called the height direction D1. The height direction D1 can also be described as the direction from the bottom 21 to the top 22. Two directions that extend along a virtual horizontal plane perpendicular to the height direction D1 and are perpendicular to each other are called the lateral direction D2 and the width direction D3. Therefore, the height direction D1, the lateral direction D2, and the width direction D3 are perpendicular to each other. Both the lateral direction D2 and the width direction D3 can also be described as the direction from the first side 23 to the center of the main body 2. In addition, the side of the top 22 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the upper side of the applicator 1A, and the side of the bottom 21 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the lower side of the applicator 1A.

[0027] The first side portion 23 extends along the height direction D1 and is a substantially cylindrical portion that defines the outer circumference of the main body 2. For example, the first side portion 23 extends along the circumferential direction of the bottom portion 21, from the entire outer edge of the bottom portion 21 along the height direction D1. The top surface of the first side portion 23 may exist or function as the top portion 22. For example, to improve user convenience, the height of a portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21 (for example, the portion on the side of the fixed end 31a of the arm 31) may be lower than the height of the other portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21.

[0028] The second side portion 24 is a portion that extends from the bottom portion 21 along the height direction D1 on the inside of the first side portion 23. The second side portion 24 is formed substantially along the edge of the opening 21a and is connected to the inner surface of the first side portion 23. In one example, the height of the second side portion 24 from the bottom portion 21 is lower than the height of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21. Height refers to the length along the height direction D1.

[0029] As an example, the main body 2 is formed to be symmetric with respect to a virtual center line CL1 parallel to the horizontal direction D2. In other words, the bottom 21, top 22, first side 23, and second side 24 are each formed to be symmetric with respect to the center line CL1.

[0030] Switch 3 is a component for pushing the microneedle device 11 toward the skin through user operation. Switch 3 has an arm 31 and a piston 32. Arm 31 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped portion attached to the first side portion 23 so as to extend along the lateral direction D2. Therefore, the lateral direction D2 can also be said to be the direction of extension of arm 31. Arm 31 has a fixed end 31a attached to the first side portion 23 and a free end 31b located on the opposite side of the fixed end 31a. Arm 31 is capable of moving in an arc along the height direction D1 with the fixed end 31a as a pivot point, and this movement allows the free end 31b to move along the height direction D1. Arm 31 may be made of a member or material that generates elastic force, for example, an elastic member such as a leaf spring. Alternatively, arm 31 may be a non-elastic member, or a flexible member. Piston 32 is a plate-shaped portion attached to the free end 31b. The piston 32 has a piston surface 32a that faces the skin. In one example, the switch 3 is formed symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1. In one example, the arm 31 extends parallel to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3. The arm 31 may also extend inclined with respect to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3.

[0031] In the set state, the microneedle device 11 is positioned between the piston 32 and the base 21. The microneedle device 11 is positioned within the main body 2 such that it is located between the piston 32 and the skin when the base 21 is in contact with the skin. In other words, the piston 32, the microneedle device 11, and the base 21 (skin) are arranged in this order along the height direction D1. When applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin, the piston 32 is pushed toward the skin by the user. In other words, the piston 32 is pushed toward the base 21 in the height direction D1 by the user. At this time, the arm 31 moves in conjunction with the movement of the piston 32, moving in an arc shape with the fixed end 31a as the pivot point. The piston surface 32a comes into contact with the microneedle device 11 when pushed toward the skin by the user. In the set state, the piston surface 32a may or may not come into contact with the microneedle device 11.

[0032] When the applicator 1A is viewed along the height direction D1, the entire switch 3 is located inside the opening 21a. As a result, the switch 3 does not come into contact with the bottom 21 when the piston 32 is pressed towards the skin by the user.

[0033] When the applicator 1A is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the top 22 of the main body 2 does not cover the piston 32, or for example, the entire switch 3. The applicator 1A does not have a portion that covers the piston 32 from the side of the top 22, or for example, a portion that covers the entire switch 3 from the side of the top 22. Therefore, when the applicator 1A is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the piston 32 is exposed to the outside of the applicator 1A.

[0034] The stopper 4 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11, which is positioned within the main body 2 between the piston 32 and the skin. As described above, the applicator 1A has one or more stoppers 4, for example, two stoppers 4. The two stoppers 4 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to a reference axis of a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. As an example, the two stoppers 4 are positioned to sandwich the vicinity of the free end 31b of the arm 31 along the width direction D3. In the set state, the two stoppers 4 are arranged along the outer edge of the microneedle device 11. Each stopper 4 has a columnar shape extending from the bottom 21 along the height direction D1. A gap is formed between the top surface and sides of the stopper 4 and the other components of the main body 2, so that the stopper 4 can bend along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0035] The stopper 4 is provided with a projection 41 that protrudes toward the piston 32 when viewed from the height direction D1. That is, the projection 41 protrudes toward the center of the microneedle device 11 when in the set state. When viewed from the height direction D1, the projection 41 overlaps with the opening 21a and does not overlap with the switch 3. Therefore, when the switch 3 moves, the projection 41 does not come into contact with the switch 3. The stopper 4 has an arrangement surface 4a on which the microneedle device 11 is placed when in the set state. The arrangement surface 4a is an upward-facing surface and is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the height direction D1. The arrangement surface 4a may also be parallel to the plane perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0036] The stopper 4 is positioned closer to the arm 31 than to the end 32b of the piston 32 on the centerline CL1. The end 32b is also the end of the switch 3 on the centerline CL1 and is located on the opposite side from the fixed end 31a. Therefore, in the set state, the stopper 4 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 that is on the side of the arm 31. As an example, the stopper 4 supports the peripheral edge 11c. The stopper 4 may also support the platform surface 11d, as long as it does not come into contact with the microneedle 11a.

[0037] If the arm 31 can generate elastic force, such as an elastic member like a leaf spring, then the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22, generating elastic force in the arm 31. For example, when the microneedle device 11 inserted into the main body 2 through the opening 21a pushes the piston 32 upward, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22. Alternatively, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22 due to such an insertion operation by the user. The switch 3, for example, the piston 32, transmits the elastic force generated in the arm 31 to the microneedle device 11, which is supported by the stopper 4. At this time, the switch 3 is in contact with the microneedle device 11. The arm 31 may be in contact with the microneedle device 11, or the piston surface 32a may be in contact with the microneedle device 11. The stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 against the elastic force. In this way, the microneedle device 11 is supported against the elastic force by being gripped by the switch 3 and the stopper 4.

[0038] Rib 5 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11 together with the stopper 4. Rib 5 is located at a different position from the stopper 4. For example, rib 5 is located on a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extending direction of the arm 31. Rib 5 is positioned closer to the end 32b than to the arm 31. Therefore, in the set state, rib 5 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 on the end 32b side. Rib 5 has an inverted L-shape, extending along the height direction D1 from the bottom 21 to the top 22 and then bending toward the center of the body 2. The tip surface 5a of rib 5 faces toward the center of the body 2. A gap is formed between the entire top and side surfaces of rib 5 and the other components of the body 2, so that rib 5 can bend along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1. As described above, the applicator 1A may have a single rib 5 or two or more ribs 5. For example, the two ribs 5 may be provided symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1 as the reference axis, similar to the stopper 4.

[0039] The rib 5 is in contact with at least the side surface 11e of the microneedle device 11 supported by the stopper 4. For example, the tip surface 5a of the rib 5 is in contact with the side surface 11e, but not with any other part of the microneedle device 11. The rib 5 may also push the microneedle device 11 towards the stopper 4. It can be said that the rib 5 supports the microneedle device 11 from the side, while the stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 from below.

[0040] The canopy portion 6 is a component that stops the movement of the microneedle device 11 within the body 2 so that the microneedle device 11, which is inserted into the body 2 from the opening 21a and moves toward the top portion 22, does not protrude from above the body 2. As described above, the applicator 1A has one or more canopy portions 6, for example, two canopy portions 6. As an example, the two canopy portions 6 are provided so as to be symmetrical with respect to a reference axis of a virtual center line (center line CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. The canopy portion 6 is provided so as to be closer to the end portion 32b of the piston 32 than to the arm 31. The canopy portion 6 is located on the opposite side of the piston 32 from the stopper 4. When viewed from the height direction D1, the canopy portion 6 protrudes inward from the second side portion 24 towards the inside of the body 2. When viewed from the height direction D1, the canopy portion 6 overlaps with the opening 21a and does not overlap with the switch 3. As a result, when the switch 3 moves, the canopy portion 6 does not come into contact with the switch 3.

[0041] The eaves portion 6 is positioned so that in the height direction D1 it is closer to the top 22 than the placement surface 4a of the stopper 4. That is, the eaves portion 6 is located above the stopper 4. The distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a in the height direction D1 is greater than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. From the viewpoint of holding the microneedle device 11 more stably, the distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a may be the same as the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11, or less than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c. The lower end 6a is the end of the eaves portion 6 that is located on the side of the bottom 21 in the height direction D1. The upper end 4b is the end of the placement surface 4a that is located on the side of the top 22 in the height direction D1.

[0042] The visor portion 6 is provided so as to cover at least a portion of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11, supported by the stopper 4, is viewed from the top 22 side along the height direction D1. For example, the visor portion 6 covers a portion of the peripheral edge 11c. For example, the visor portion 6 is provided partially along the peripheral edge 11c so that the rest of the peripheral edge 11c is visible when the microneedle device 11 is viewed from the top 22 side along the height direction D1. In the applicator 1A, the visor portion 6 is provided in two places along the peripheral edge 11c.

[0043] The retrieval mechanism 7 is a component that holds the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11 is applied to the skin by the user's operation of the switch 3. The retrieval mechanism 7 comprises two claws 71 for gripping the microneedle device 11. For example, the claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11 before it reaches the skin in response to the piston 32 moving toward the skin. Each of the two claws 71 is provided on the piston 32 so as to be located outside the piston surface 32a and is positioned closer to the bottom 21 than the piston surface 32a in the height direction D1. For example, the two claws 71 are located on both sides of the piston surface 32a in the width direction D3, gripping the microneedle device 11 from both sides. For example, the two claws 71 are located on a virtual centerline CL2 parallel to the width direction D3 of the microneedle device 11 in the set state. In this case, the claws 71 can stably grip the microneedle device 11.

[0044] Next, with reference to Figure 4, we will describe the series of steps involved in applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin.

[0045] In the set state shown as scene S101, the microneedle device 11 is supported from below by the stopper 4 and from the side by the rib 5. At this time, the piston 32 of the switch 3 is located above the microneedle device 11, and the claw 71 does not grip the microneedle device 11.

[0046] In scene S102, the user presses switch 3 toward the skin, causing the claws 71 to contact the microneedle device 11. As the stopper 4 continues to support the microneedle device 11, the two claws 71 in contact with the microneedle device 11 open outward, then move along the side of the microneedle device 11 to the area below the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. As a result, the two claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11. For example, the two claws 71 grip the peripheral edge 11c and not the platform surface 11d. When the claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11, substantially the entire surface of the piston surface 32a is in contact with the microneedle device 11. The claws 71 may grip the platform surface 11d as long as they do not come into contact with the microneedles 11a.

[0047] In scene S103, as the user further presses the switch 3, the microneedle device 11, pushed by the piston 32, moves over the projection 41, moves downward, and reaches the skin. At this time, the rib 5 bends outward along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1, allowing the microneedle device 11 to move smoothly downward. This causes the microneedle 11a to contact or puncture the skin. Thus, the microneedle device 11 is applied to the skin.

[0048] Subsequently, the user removes the applicator 1A from the skin. The nail 71 continues to grip the microneedle device 11 even after it has been applied to the skin. Therefore, when the user removes the applicator 1A from the skin, the microneedle device 11, which is gripped by the nail 71, also separates from the skin along with the applicator 1A.

[0049] As described above, the claw 71 grasps the microneedle device 11 before it overcomes the projection 41. Alternatively, the claw 71 may grasp the microneedle device 11 at the time it overcomes the projection 41, or after it overcomes the projection 41. For example, the claw 71 may grasp the microneedle device 11 at the time it reaches the skin. Or, the claw 71 may grasp the microneedle device 11 before the user presses the switch 3 toward the skin, as shown in scene S102.

[0050] [Application kit related to the first example] The configuration of the application kit 10A according to the first example will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the application kit 10A from above. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along the line VI-VI shown in Figure 5. Figure 6 shows the microneedle device 11 positioned on the stage 12.

[0051] Stage 12 is an article for positioning the microneedle device 11 within the applicator 1A. Stage 12 includes a columnar portion 121 that extends along the height direction D1 to support the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 is partially provided along the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 includes a top surface 121a that supports the microneedle device 11 and a projection 121b that protrudes from the top surface 121a along the height direction D1. The top surface 121a is the surface facing the microneedle device 11. For example, the top surface 121a supports the peripheral edge 11c and does not contact the platform surface 11d. The projection 121b is located outside the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11 supported by the columnar portion 121 is viewed from the side of the microneedle device 11 along the height direction D1. The projection 121b may or may not be in contact with the side surface 11e of the microneedle device 11.

[0052] Referring to Figure 7, the process from placing the microneedle device 11, which is positioned on stage 12, into the applicator 1A will be explained. The main body 2 is omitted in Figure 7.

[0053] In scene S111, the user aligns the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11 with the top surface 121a of the columnar portion 121 and places the microneedle device 11 on the columnar portion 121. This operation places the microneedle device 11 on the stage 12.

[0054] In scene S112, the user aligns the applicator 1A with the stage 12 and inserts the applicator 1A into the stage 12 from above. This operation inserts the columnar portion 121 that supports the microneedle device 11 into the main body 2 toward the piston 32. This insertion causes the piston 32 to move upward within the main body 2, pushed by the microneedle device 11, and the microneedle device 11 enters the space between the piston 32 and the stopper 4, where it is supported by the stopper 4. For example, the microneedle device 11 moves onto the placement surface 4a by overcoming the projection 41 of the stopper 4. At this time, the rib 5 supports the microneedle device 11 from the side. As the microneedle device 11 moves over the projection 41, the stopper 4 and the rib 5 bend outward along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1, so the positional relationship between the microneedle device 11 and the columnar portion 121 remains unchanged. Because the relative positions remain unchanged, the microneedle 11a does not come into contact with the columnar portion 121, and therefore, breakage of the microneedle 11a can be suppressed. Note that when the columnar portion 121 supporting the microneedle device 11 is inserted into the main body 2 toward the piston 32, the piston 32 may be pushed upward by the columnar portion 121.

[0055] In scene S113, the user moves the applicator 1A, which has the microneedle device 11 set on it, above the stage 12, and moves the applicator 1A away from the stage 12. The applicator 1A is in the set state as shown in scene S101 above. As explained with reference to Figure 4, the user places the applicator 1A on the skin and operates the applicator 1A. This operation causes the applicator 1A to move and apply the microneedle device 11 to the skin, as shown in scenes S102 and S103 above.

[0056] As described above, in the application kit 10A, the claws 71 do not grip the microneedle device 11 from the time the microneedle device 11 is inserted into the main body 2 toward the piston 32 until it is supported by the stopper 4.

[0057] [Applicator related to the second example] The structure of the applicator 1B in the second example will be explained with reference to Figures 8 to 11. Figure 8 is a plan view of the applicator 1B seen from above. Figure 9 is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line IX-IX shown in Figure 8. Figure 10 is a perspective view of the applicator 1B seen from below. Figure 11 is a diagram showing the flow from the state in which the microneedle device 11 is set in the applicator 1B to the application of the microneedle device 11 to the skin. Figures 8 to 10 show the applicator 1B in its natural state.

[0058] Applicator 1B comprises a main body 2, a switch 3, at least one stopper 4, at least one rib 5, at least one overhang 6, and a recovery mechanism 7. The material of applicator 1B is, for example, the same as the material of applicator 1A. The configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1B is, for example, the same as the configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1A.

[0059] The main body 2 is a roughly cylindrical structure that houses the various components such as the switch 3. The main body 2 has a bottom portion 21, a top portion 22, a first side portion 23 (side portion), and a movable portion 25. The bottom portion 21 is the part that contacts the skin when the applicator 1B is placed on the skin to apply the microneedle device 11 to the skin. The bottom portion 21 is roughly circular in shape. An opening 21a for inserting the microneedle device 11 into the main body 2 is formed over most of the bottom portion 21. The top portion 22 is the part opposite the bottom portion 21 and is therefore located away from the skin when the applicator 1B is placed on the skin.

[0060] The definitions of height direction D1, lateral direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the following explanation are the same as the definitions of height direction D1, lateral direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the explanation of the first example. In addition, the side of the top 22 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the upper side of the applicator 1B, and the side of the bottom 21 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the lower side of the applicator 1B.

[0061] The first side portion 23 extends along the height direction D1 and is a substantially cylindrical portion that defines the outer circumference of the main body 2. For example, the first side portion 23 extends along the circumferential direction of the bottom portion 21, from the entire outer edge of the bottom portion 21 along the height direction D1. The top surface of the first side portion 23 may exist or function as the top portion 22. For example, to improve user convenience, the height of a portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21 (for example, the portion on the side of the fixed end 31a of the arm 31) may be lower than the height of the other portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21.

[0062] The movable part 25 is a rod-shaped portion that extends from the inner surface of the first side portion 23 toward the stopper 4 while bending. Since a gap is formed between the entire surface of the movable part 25 and the other components of the main body 2, the movable part 25 can bend along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0063] As an example, the main body 2 is formed to be symmetric with respect to a virtual center line CL1 parallel to the horizontal direction D2. In other words, the bottom portion 21, the top portion 22, the first side portion 23, and the movable portion 25 are each formed to be symmetric with respect to the center line CL1.

[0064] Switch 3 is a component for pushing the microneedle device 11 toward the skin through user operation. Switch 3 has an arm 31 and a piston 32. The arm 31 is attached to the first side portion 23 so as to extend along the lateral direction D2. Thus, the lateral direction D2 can also be said to be the direction of extension of the arm 31. The majority of the arm 31 is bifurcated, and this bifurcated portion is attached to the first side portion 23. The arm 31 has a fixed end 31a attached to the first side portion 23 and a free end 31b located on the opposite side of the fixed end 31a. The arm 31 is capable of moving in an arc along the height direction D1 with the fixed end 31a as a pivot point, and this movement allows the free end 31b to move along the height direction D1. The arm 31 may be made of a member or material that generates elastic force, for example, an elastic member such as a leaf spring. Alternatively, the arm 31 may be an inelastic member, or a flexible member. The piston 32 is a plate-shaped portion attached to the free end 31b, with an opening formed over most of its surface. The piston 32 has a piston surface 32a that faces the skin. In one example, the switch 3 is formed symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1. In one example, the arm 31 extends parallel to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3. The arm 31 may also extend inclined with respect to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3.

[0065] In the set state, the microneedle device 11 is positioned between the piston 32 and the base 21. The microneedle device 11 is positioned within the main body 2 such that it is located between the piston 32 and the skin when the base 21 is in contact with the skin. In other words, the piston 32, the microneedle device 11, and the base 21 (skin) are arranged in this order along the height direction D1. When applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin, the piston 32 is pushed toward the skin by the user. In other words, the piston 32 is pushed toward the base 21 in the height direction D1 by the user. At this time, the arm 31 moves in conjunction with the movement of the piston 32, moving in an arc shape with the fixed end 31a as the pivot point. The piston surface 32a comes into contact with the microneedle device 11 when pushed toward the skin by the user. In the set state, the piston surface 32a may or may not come into contact with the microneedle device 11.

[0066] When the applicator 1B is viewed along the height direction D1, the entire switch 3 is located inside the opening 21a. This ensures that the switch 3 does not come into contact with the bottom 21 when the piston 32 is pressed towards the skin by the user.

[0067] When the applicator 1B is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the top 22 of the main body 2 does not cover the piston 32 at least, and does not cover the entire switch 3, for example. The applicator 1B does not have a portion that covers the piston 32 from the side of the top 22, and does not have a portion that covers the entire switch 3 from the side of the top 22, for example. Therefore, when the applicator 1B is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the piston 32 is exposed to the outside of the applicator 1B.

[0068] The stopper 4 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11, which is positioned within the main body 2 between the piston 32 and the skin. As described above, the applicator 1B has one or more stoppers 4, for example, two stoppers 4. The two stoppers 4 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to a reference axis of a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extending direction of the arm 31. As an example, the two stoppers 4 are positioned to sandwich the vicinity of the free end 31b of the arm 31 along the width direction D3. In the set state, the two stoppers 4 are arranged along the outer edge of the microneedle device 11. Each stopper 4 has a columnar shape extending from the bottom 21 along the height direction D1. A movable part 25 that can bend along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1 is connected to each stopper 4. A gap is formed between the top surface and sides of the stopper 4 and other components of the main body 2, except for the part connected to the movable part 25. Therefore, the stopper 4 can bend along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0069] The stopper 4 is provided with a projection 41 that protrudes toward the piston 32 when viewed from the height direction D1. That is, the projection 41 protrudes toward the center of the microneedle device 11 when in the set state. When viewed from the height direction D1, the projection 41 overlaps with the opening 21a and does not overlap with the switch 3. Therefore, when the switch 3 moves, the projection 41 does not come into contact with the switch 3. The stopper 4 has an arrangement surface 4a on which the microneedle device 11 is placed when in the set state. The arrangement surface 4a is an upward-facing surface and is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the height direction D1. The arrangement surface 4a may also be parallel to the plane perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0070] The stopper 4 is positioned closer to the arm 31 than to the end 32b of the piston 32 on the centerline CL1. The end 32b is also the end of the switch 3 on the centerline CL1 and is located on the opposite side from the fixed end 31a. Therefore, in the set state, the stopper 4 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 that is on the side of the arm 31. As an example, the stopper 4 supports the peripheral edge 11c. The stopper 4 may also support the platform surface 11d, as long as it does not come into contact with the microneedle 11a.

[0071] If the arm 31 can generate elastic force, such as an elastic member like a leaf spring, then the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22, generating elastic force in the arm 31. For example, when the microneedle device 11 inserted into the main body 2 through the opening 21a pushes the piston 32 upward, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22. Alternatively, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22 due to such an insertion operation by the user. The switch 3, for example, the piston 32, transmits the elastic force generated in the arm 31 to the microneedle device 11, which is supported by the stopper 4. At this time, the switch 3 is in contact with the microneedle device 11. The arm 31 may be in contact with the microneedle device 11, or the piston surface 32a may be in contact with the microneedle device 11. The stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 against the elastic force. In this way, the microneedle device 11 is supported against the elastic force by being gripped by the switch 3 and the stopper 4.

[0072] Rib 5 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11 together with the stopper 4. Rib 5 is located at a different position from the stopper 4. For example, rib 5 is located on a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extending direction of the arm 31. Rib 5 is positioned closer to the end 32b than to the arm 31. Therefore, in the set state, rib 5 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 on the end 32b side. Rib 5 has an inverted L-shape, extending along the height direction D1 from the bottom 21 to the top 22 and then bending toward the center of the body 2. The tip surface 5a of rib 5 faces toward the center of the body 2. A gap is formed between the entire top and side surfaces of rib 5 and the other components of the body 2, so that rib 5 can bend along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1. As described above, the applicator 1B may have a single rib 5 or two or more ribs 5. For example, the two ribs 5 may be provided symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1 as the reference axis, similar to the stopper 4.

[0073] The rib 5 is in contact with at least the side surface 11e of the microneedle device 11 supported by the stopper 4. For example, the tip surface 5a of the rib 5 is in contact with the side surface 11e, but not with any other part of the microneedle device 11. The rib 5 may also push the microneedle device 11 towards the stopper 4. It can be said that the rib 5 supports the microneedle device 11 from the side, while the stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 from below.

[0074] The canopy portion 6 is a component that stops the movement of the microneedle device 11 within the main body 2 so that the microneedle device 11, which is inserted into the main body 2 from the opening 21a and moves toward the top portion 22, does not protrude from the top of the main body 2. As described above, the applicator 1B has one or more canopy portions 6, for example, it has one canopy portion 6. As an example, the canopy portion 6 is provided so as to be symmetric with respect to a reference axis of a virtual center line (center line CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. The canopy portion 6 is provided so as to be closer to the end portion 32b of the piston 32 than to the arm 31. The canopy portion 6 is located on the opposite side of the piston 32 from the stopper 4. In the applicator 1B, the canopy portion 6 is part of the wall portion 26 that extends toward the inside of the main body 2 from approximately the upper half of the first side portion 23 (approximately the upper half located in Figure 8) when viewed from the height direction D1. When viewed from the height direction D1, the canopy portion 6 overlaps with the opening 21a but does not overlap with the switch 3. As a result, when the switch 3 moves, the canopy portion 6 does not come into contact with the switch 3.

[0075] The eaves portion 6 is positioned so that in the height direction D1 it is closer to the top 22 than the placement surface 4a of the stopper 4. That is, the eaves portion 6 is located above the stopper 4. The distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a in the height direction D1 is greater than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. From the viewpoint of holding the microneedle device 11 more stably, the distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a may be the same as the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11, or less than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c. The lower end 6a is the end of the eaves portion 6 that is located on the side of the bottom 21 in the height direction D1. The upper end 4b is the end of the placement surface 4a that is located on the side of the top 22 in the height direction D1.

[0076] The visor portion 6 is provided so as to cover at least a portion of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11, supported by the stopper 4, is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. For example, the visor portion 6 covers a portion of the peripheral edge 11c. For example, the visor portion 6 is provided partially along the peripheral edge 11c so that the rest of the peripheral edge 11c is visible when the microneedle device 11 is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. In the applicator 1B, the visor portion 6 is provided in one place along the peripheral edge 11c.

[0077] The retrieval mechanism 7 is a component that holds the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11 is applied to the skin by the user's operation of the switch 3. The retrieval mechanism 7 comprises two claws 71 for gripping the microneedle device 11. For example, the claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11 before it reaches the skin in response to the piston 32 moving toward the skin. Each of the two claws 71 is provided on the piston 32 so as to be located outside the piston surface 32a and is positioned closer to the bottom 21 than the piston surface 32a in the height direction D1. For example, the two claws 71 are located on both sides of the piston surface 32a in the width direction D3, gripping the microneedle device 11 from both sides. For example, the two claws 71 are located on a virtual centerline CL2 parallel to the width direction D3 of the microneedle device 11 in the set state. In this case, the claws 71 can stably grip the microneedle device 11.

[0078] Next, with reference to Figure 11, the series of steps involved in applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin will be described.

[0079] In the set state shown as scene S201, the microneedle device 11 is supported from below by the stopper 4 and from the side by the rib 5. At this time, the piston 32 of the switch 3 is located above the microneedle device 11, and the claws 71 do not grip the microneedle device 11.

[0080] In scene S202, the user presses switch 3 toward the skin, causing the claws 71 to contact the microneedle device 11. As the stopper 4 continues to support the microneedle device 11, the two claws 71 in contact with the microneedle device 11 open outward, then move along the side of the microneedle device 11 to the area below the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. As a result, the two claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11. For example, the two claws 71 grip the peripheral edge 11c and not the platform surface 11d. When the claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11, substantially the entire surface of the piston surface 32a is in contact with the microneedle device 11. The claws 71 may grip the platform surface 11d as long as they do not come into contact with the microneedles 11a.

[0081] In scene S203, as the user further presses the switch 3, the microneedle device 11, pushed by the piston 32, overcomes the projection 41, moves downward, and reaches the skin. At this time, the rib 5 bends outward along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1, allowing the microneedle device 11 to move smoothly downward. This causes the microneedle 11a to contact or puncture the skin. Thus, the microneedle device 11 is applied to the skin.

[0082] Subsequently, the user removes the applicator 1B from the skin. The nail 71 continues to grip the microneedle device 11 even after it has been applied to the skin. Therefore, when the user removes the applicator 1B from the skin, the microneedle device 11, which is gripped by the nail 71, also separates from the skin along with the applicator 1B.

[0083] As described above, the claw 71 grasps the microneedle device 11 before it overcomes the projection 41. Alternatively, the claw 71 may grasp the microneedle device 11 at the time it overcomes the projection 41, or after it overcomes the projection 41. For example, the claw 71 may grasp the microneedle device 11 at the time it reaches the skin. Or, the claw 71 may grasp the microneedle device 11 before the user presses the switch 3 toward the skin, as shown in scene S202.

[0084] [Application kit related to the second example] The configuration of the application kit 10B according to the second example will be described with reference to Figures 12 and 13. Figure 12 is a perspective view of the application kit 10B from above. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view along the line XIII-XIII shown in Figure 12. Figure 13 shows the microneedle device 11 positioned on the stage 12.

[0085] Stage 12 is an article for positioning the microneedle device 11 within the applicator 1B. Stage 12 includes a columnar portion 121 that extends along the height direction D1 to support the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 is partially provided along the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 includes a top surface 121a that supports the microneedle device 11. The top surface 121a is the surface facing the microneedle device 11. For example, the top surface 121a supports the peripheral edge 11c and does not contact the platform surface 11d.

[0086] The process in application kit 10B, from placing the microneedle device 11 on stage 12 into the applicator 1B, is the same as the process in application kit 10A, as explained with reference to Figure 7.

[0087] [Applicator related to the third example] The structure of the applicator 1C in the third example will be described with reference to Figures 14 to 17. Figure 14 is a plan view of the applicator 1C seen from above. Figure 15 is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line XV-XV shown in Figure 14. Figure 16 is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line XVI-XVI shown in Figure 14. Figure 17 shows the state in which the microneedle device 11 is set in the applicator 1C. Figures 14 to 16 show the applicator 1C in its natural state.

[0088] Applicator 1C comprises a main body 2, a switch 3, at least one stopper 4, at least one rib 5, at least one overhang portion 6 (block portion), and a recovery mechanism 7. The material of applicator 1C is, for example, the same as the material of applicator 1A. The configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1C is the same as the configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1A.

[0089] The main body 2 is a structure that houses the various components such as the switch 3, and is formed by a combination of a roughly cylindrical portion and a roughly rectangular parallelepiped portion. The main body 2 has a bottom portion 21, a top portion 22, a first side portion 23 (side portion), and a wall portion 26. The bottom portion 21 is the portion that contacts the skin when the applicator 1C is placed on the skin to apply the microneedle device 11 to the skin. The bottom portion 21 is formed by a combination of a roughly circular portion and a roughly rectangular portion. An opening 21a for inserting the microneedle device 11 into the main body 2 is formed approximately in the center of the bottom portion 21. The top portion 22 is the portion opposite the bottom portion 21, and therefore is located away from the skin when the applicator 1C is placed on the skin.

[0090] The definitions of height direction D1, lateral direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the following explanation are the same as the definitions of height direction D1, lateral direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the explanation of the first example. In addition, the side of the top 22 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the upper side of the applicator 1C, and the side of the bottom 21 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the lower side of the applicator 1C.

[0091] The first side portion 23 extends along the height direction D1 and defines the outer circumference of the main body 2. For example, the first side portion 23 extends along the circumferential direction of the bottom portion 21, from the entire outer edge of the bottom portion 21 along the height direction D1. The top surface of the first side portion 23 may exist or function as the top portion 22. For example, to improve user convenience, the height of a portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21 (e.g., the portion on the side of the fixed end 31a of the arm 31) may be lower than the height of the other portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21.

[0092] The wall portion 26 extends from substantially the entire inner surface of the first side portion 23 toward the inside of the main body 2. In the applicator 1C, the wall portion 26 is formed integrally with the bottom portion 21. For example, the wall portion 26 is the part that is thicker in the height direction D1 than the bottom portion 21.

[0093] As an example, the main body 2 is formed to be symmetric with respect to a virtual center line CL1 parallel to the horizontal direction D2. In other words, the bottom portion 21, the top portion 22, the first side portion 23, and the wall portion 26 are each formed to be symmetric with respect to the center line CL1.

[0094] Switch 3 is a component for pushing the microneedle device 11 toward the skin through user operation. Switch 3 has an arm 31 and a piston 32. Arm 31 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped portion attached to the first side portion 23 so as to extend along the lateral direction D2. Therefore, the lateral direction D2 can also be said to be the direction of extension of arm 31. Arm 31 has a fixed end 31a attached to the first side portion 23 and a free end 31b located on the opposite side of the fixed end 31a. Arm 31 is capable of moving in an arc along the height direction D1 with the fixed end 31a as a pivot point, and this movement allows the free end 31b to move along the height direction D1. Arm 31 may be made of a member or material that generates elastic force, for example, an elastic member such as a leaf spring. Alternatively, arm 31 may be a non-elastic member, or a flexible member. Piston 32 is a plate-shaped portion attached to the free end 31b. The piston 32 has a piston surface 32a that faces the skin. In one example, the switch 3 is formed symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1. In one example, the arm 31 extends parallel to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3. The arm 31 may also extend inclined with respect to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3.

[0095] In the set state, the microneedle device 11 is positioned between the piston 32 and the base 21. The microneedle device 11 is positioned within the main body 2 such that it is located between the piston 32 and the skin when the base 21 is in contact with the skin. In other words, the piston 32, the microneedle device 11, and the base 21 (skin) are arranged in this order along the height direction D1. When applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin, the piston 32 is pushed toward the skin by the user. In other words, the piston 32 is pushed toward the base 21 in the height direction D1 by the user. At this time, the arm 31 moves in conjunction with the movement of the piston 32, moving in an arc shape with the fixed end 31a as the pivot point. The piston surface 32a comes into contact with the microneedle device 11 when pushed toward the skin by the user. In the set state, the piston surface 32a may or may not come into contact with the microneedle device 11.

[0096] When the applicator 1C is viewed along the height direction D1, the entire switch 3 is located inside the opening 21a. This ensures that the switch 3 does not come into contact with the bottom 21 when the piston 32 is pressed against the skin by the user.

[0097] When the applicator 1C is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the top 22 of the main body 2 does not cover the piston 32, or for example, the entire switch 3. The applicator 1C does not have a portion that covers the piston 32 from the side of the top 22, or for example, a portion that covers the entire switch 3 from the side of the top 22. Therefore, when the applicator 1C is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the piston 32 is exposed to the outside of the applicator 1C.

[0098] The stopper 4 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11, which is positioned within the main body 2 between the piston 32 and the skin. As described above, the applicator 1C has one or more stoppers 4, for example, two stoppers 4. The two stoppers 4 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to a reference axis of a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. As an example, the two stoppers 4 are positioned along the width direction D3, flanking the vicinity of the free end 31b of the arm 31. In the set state, the two stoppers 4 are arranged along the outer edge of the microneedle device 11. Each stopper 4 is attached across the inner surface of the bottom portion 21 defining the opening 21a and the inner surface of the wall portion 26 continuous with the inner surface of the bottom portion 21. Each stopper 4 has a columnar shape extending along the height direction D1. For example, the bottom surface of the stopper 4 is located on the same plane as the bottom surface of the main body 2 (the surface that comes into contact with the skin when the applicator 1C is placed on the skin).

[0099] When viewed from the height direction D1, the stopper 4 overlaps with the opening 21a but does not overlap with the switch 3. Therefore, when the switch 3 moves, the stopper 4 does not come into contact with the switch 3. The stopper 4 has a placement surface 4a on which the microneedle device 11 is placed in the set state. The placement surface 4a is an upward-facing surface and is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the height direction D1. The placement surface 4a may also be parallel to the plane perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0100] The stopper 4 is positioned closer to the arm 31 than to the end 32b of the piston 32 on the centerline CL1. The end 32b is also the end of the switch 3 on the centerline CL1 and is located on the opposite side from the fixed end 31a. Therefore, in the set state, the stopper 4 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 that is on the side of the arm 31. As an example, the stopper 4 supports the peripheral edge 11c. The stopper 4 may also support the platform surface 11d, as long as it does not come into contact with the microneedle 11a.

[0101] If the arm 31 can generate elastic force, such as an elastic member like a leaf spring, then the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22, generating elastic force in the arm 31. For example, when the microneedle device 11 inserted into the main body 2 through the opening 21a pushes the piston 32 upward, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22. Alternatively, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22 due to such an insertion operation by the user. The switch 3, for example, the piston 32, transmits the elastic force generated in the arm 31 to the microneedle device 11, which is supported by the stopper 4. At this time, the switch 3 is in contact with the microneedle device 11. The arm 31 may be in contact with the microneedle device 11, or the piston surface 32a may be in contact with the microneedle device 11. The stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 against the elastic force. In this way, the microneedle device 11 is supported against the elastic force by being gripped by the switch 3 and the stopper 4.

[0102] Rib 5 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11 together with the stopper 4. Rib 5 is located at a different position from the stopper 4. For example, rib 5 is located on a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the direction of extension of the arm 31. Rib 5 is positioned closer to the end 32b than to the arm 31. Therefore, in the set state, rib 5 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 on the end 32b side. Rib 5 has an L-shape, extending along the height direction D1 from the top 22 towards the bottom 21 and then bending toward the center of the body 2. The tip surface 5a of rib 5 faces toward the center of the body 2. Rib 5 does not reach the bottom surface of the body 2 in the height direction D1 and does not come into contact with the skin when the applicator 1C is placed on the skin. A gap is formed between the entire bottom and sides of rib 5 and the other components of the body 2, so that rib 5 can bend along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1. In the applicator 1C, the rib 5 extends downward from a portion of the first side portion 23 that protrudes toward the end portion 32b. As described above, the applicator 1C may have a single rib 5 or two or more ribs 5. For example, two ribs 5 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1 as the reference axis, similar to the stopper 4.

[0103] The rib 5 is in contact with at least the side surface 11e of the microneedle device 11 supported by the stopper 4. For example, the tip surface 5a of the rib 5 is in contact with the side surface 11e, but not with any other part of the microneedle device 11. The rib 5 may also push the microneedle device 11 towards the stopper 4. It can be said that the rib 5 supports the microneedle device 11 from the side, while the stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 from below.

[0104] The canopy portion 6 is a component that stops the movement of the microneedle device 11 within the main body 2 so that the microneedle device 11, which is inserted into the main body 2 from the opening 21a and moves toward the top portion 22, does not protrude from above the main body 2. As described above, the applicator 1C has one or more canopy portions 6, for example, two canopy portions 6. As an example, the two canopy portions 6 are provided so as to be symmetrical with respect to a virtual center line (center line CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31 as the reference axis. When viewed from the height direction D1, the two canopy portions 6 are positioned so as to sandwich the piston 32 in the width direction D3. When viewed from the height direction D1, the canopy portions 6 overlap with the opening 21a but do not overlap with the switch 3. As a result, when the switch 3 moves, the canopy portions 6 do not come into contact with the switch 3. In the applicator 1C, when viewed from the height direction D1, most of the canopy portion 6 extends along the lateral direction D2, and both ends of the canopy portion 6 are bent. The canopy portion 6 may be formed integrally with the wall portion 26.

[0105] The eaves portion 6 is positioned so that in the height direction D1 it is closer to the top 22 than the placement surface 4a of the stopper 4. That is, the eaves portion 6 is located above the stopper 4. The distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a in the height direction D1 is greater than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. From the viewpoint of holding the microneedle device 11 more stably, the distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a may be the same as the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11, or less than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c. The lower end 6a is the end of the eaves portion 6 that is located on the bottom 21 side in the height direction D1. The upper end 4b is the end of the placement surface 4a that is located on the top 22 side in the height direction D1. In the applicator 1C, the upper end 4b is the upper end of the stopper 4.

[0106] The visor portion 6 is provided so as to cover at least a portion of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11, supported by the stopper 4, is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. For example, the visor portion 6 covers a portion of the peripheral edge 11c. For example, the visor portion 6 is provided partially along the peripheral edge 11c so that the rest of the peripheral edge 11c is visible when the microneedle device 11 is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. In the applicator 1C, the visor portion 6 is provided in two places along the peripheral edge 11c.

[0107] The retrieval mechanism 7 is a component that holds the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11 is applied to the skin by the user's operation of the switch 3. The retrieval mechanism 7 comprises two claws 71 that grip the microneedle device 11. For example, the claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11 approximately simultaneously with the microneedle device 11 reaching the skin in response to the piston 32 moving toward the skin.

[0108] In the applicator 1C, the recovery mechanism 7 consists of multiple L-shaped members located on the outside of the piston 32. For example, the recovery mechanism 7 consists of two L-shaped members located on either side of the piston 32 in the width direction D3. Each L-shaped member has a horizontal portion 72 extending along the width direction D3 and a vertical portion 73 extending towards the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. The horizontal portion 72 is a rod-shaped part extending from the inner surface of the first side portion 23 toward the inside of the main body 2. For example, the horizontal portion 72 comes into contact with the skin when the applicator 1C is placed on the skin. The horizontal portion 72 has an inner end 72a located on the inside of the main body 2. The inner end 72a is located near the piston 32. The vertical portion 73 is a rod-shaped part extending from the inner end 72a toward the top portion 22. The vertical portion 73 has an upper end 73a located on the side of the top portion 22. The upper end 73a is located outside the canopy portion 6 in the width direction D3. In other words, the canopy portion 6 is located inside the main body 2 beyond the upper end 73a. In the applicator 1C, the claws 71 are provided on the inner end 72a such that they protrude toward the piston 32 from the inner end 72a.

[0109] For example, the angle between the horizontal portion 72 and the vertical portion 73 is 90 degrees. This angle does not have to be 90 degrees, as long as the vertical portion 73 does not interfere with the microneedle device 11, and the microneedle device 11 can be reliably applied to the skin and held in place. For example, this angle may be between 60 degrees and 120 degrees, or between 80 degrees and 100 degrees.

[0110] Next, with reference to Figure 17, the procedure for applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin will be described.

[0111] In the set state, the microneedle device 11 is supported from below by the stopper 4 and from the side by the rib 5. At this time, the piston 32 of the switch 3 is positioned above the microneedle device 11. When the user pushes the switch 3 toward the skin, the microneedle device 11, pushed by the piston 32, slides downward on the placement surface 4a. At this time, the rib 5 flexes outward along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1, allowing the microneedle device 11 to move smoothly downward. When the user pushes the switch 3 further, the microneedle device 11, pushed by the piston 32, moves further downward than the placement surface 4a and reaches the skin. As a result, the microneedles 11a come into contact with or puncture the skin. In this way, the microneedle device 11 is applied to the skin.

[0112] Next, referring to Figure 18, the operation of the claw 71 until it grasps the microneedle device 11 will be described.

[0113] In the pre-set state shown as scene S301, the microneedle device 11 is positioned below the applicator 1C.

[0114] In scene S302, the user inserts the microneedle device 11 into the main body 2. At this time, the microneedle device 11 contacts the claw 71 from below, causing the vertical portion 73 to tilt outward from the main body 2. Once the microneedle device 11 overcomes the claw 71, the vertical portion 73 returns to its original position. As a result of the insertion operation described above, as shown in scene S303, the microneedle device 11 enters between the piston 32 and the stopper 4 and is supported by the stopper 4. The state shown in scene S303 is the set state shown in Figure 17.

[0115] In scene S304, as explained with reference to Figure 17, the user applies the microneedle device 11 to the skin. When the piston 32 is pushed toward the skin by the user, the microneedle device 11 reaches the skin. Almost simultaneously, the claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11 within the body 2. If the piston 32 continues to be pushed toward the skin by the user in this state, the vertical portion 73 begins to tilt toward the inside of the body 2. However, in the applicator 1C, the visor portion 6 is provided further inward from the upper end 73a within the body 2, so the range in which the vertical portion 73 tilts toward the inside of the body 2 is limited. As a result, the vertical portion 73 does not tilt excessively toward the inside of the body 2, and the microneedle device 11 remains within the body 2. The claws 71 may grip the peripheral portion 11c. Alternatively, the claws 71 may grip the platform surface 11d as long as they do not come into contact with the microneedle 11a.

[0116] In scene S305, the user finishes pushing the piston 32, and the vertical portion 73 returns to its original position. The claw 71 continues to grip the microneedle device 11 even after it has been applied to the skin. Therefore, when the user removes the applicator 1C from the skin, the microneedle device 11, which is gripped by the claw 71, also moves away from the skin along with the applicator 1C.

[0117] As described above, the nail 71 grasps the microneedle device 11 almost simultaneously with the microneedle device 11 reaching the skin. Alternatively, the nail 71 may grasp the microneedle device 11 before it reaches the skin, or after it reaches the skin.

[0118] As described above, in the applicator 1C, the visor portion 6 has the function of stopping the movement of the microneedle device 11 toward the top portion 22, as well as the function of limiting the tilt of the vertical portion 73 toward the inside of the main body 2.

[0119] [Application kit related to the third example] Referring to Figure 19, the configuration of the application kit 10C in the third example will be described. Figure 19 is a perspective view of the application kit 10C from above.

[0120] Stage 12 is an article for positioning the microneedle device 11 within the applicator 1C. Stage 12 includes a columnar portion 121 that extends along the height direction D1 to support the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 is partially provided along the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 includes a top surface 121a that supports the microneedle device 11. The top surface 121a is the surface facing the microneedle device 11. For example, the top surface 121a supports the peripheral edge 11c and does not contact the platform surface 11d.

[0121] The process in application kit 10C, from placing the microneedle device 11 on stage 12 into the applicator 1C, is the same as the process in application kit 10A, as explained with reference to Figure 7.

[0122] [Applicator related to the fourth example] The structure of the applicator 1D in the fourth example will be described with reference to Figures 20 to 22. Figure 20 is a plan view of the applicator 1D seen from above. Figure 21 is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line XXI-XXI shown in Figure 20. Figure 22 shows the state in which the microneedle device is set in the applicator 1D. Figures 20 and 21 show the applicator 1D in its natural state.

[0123] Applicator 1D comprises a body 2, a switch 3, at least one stopper 4, at least one rib 5, and at least one overhang 6. The material of applicator 1D is, for example, the same as the material of applicator 1A. The configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1D is the same as the configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1A.

[0124] The main body 2 is a structure that houses the various components such as the switch 3, and has a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape with two rounded corners. The main body 2 has a bottom portion 21, a top portion 22, a first side portion 23 (side portion), and a wall portion 26. The bottom portion 21 is the part that contacts the skin when the applicator 1D is placed on the skin to apply the microneedle device 11 to the skin. The bottom portion 21 has a roughly rectangular shape with two rounded corners. An opening 21a for inserting the microneedle device 11 into the main body 2 is formed approximately in the center of the bottom portion 21. The top portion 22 is the part opposite the bottom portion 21, and therefore is located away from the skin when the applicator 1D is placed on the skin.

[0125] The definitions of height direction D1, lateral direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the following explanation are the same as the definitions of height direction D1, lateral direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the explanation of the first example. In addition, the side of the top 22 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the upper side of the applicator 1D, and the side of the bottom 21 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the lower side of the applicator 1D.

[0126] The first side portion 23 extends along the height direction D1 and defines the outer circumference of the main body 2. For example, the first side portion 23 extends along the circumferential direction of the bottom portion 21, from the entire outer edge of the bottom portion 21 along the height direction D1. The top surface of the first side portion 23 may exist or function as the top portion 22. For example, to improve user convenience, the height of a portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21 (e.g., the portion on the side of the fixed end 31a of the arm 31) may be lower than the height of the other portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21.

[0127] The wall portion 26 extends from substantially the entire inner surface of the first side portion 23 toward the inside of the main body 2. In the applicator 1D, the wall portion 26 is formed integrally with the bottom portion 21. For example, the wall portion 26 is the part that is thicker in the height direction D1 than the bottom portion 21.

[0128] As an example, the main body 2 is formed to be symmetric with respect to a virtual center line CL1 parallel to the horizontal direction D2. In other words, the bottom portion 21, the top portion 22, the first side portion 23, and the wall portion 26 are each formed to be symmetric with respect to the center line CL1.

[0129] Switch 3 is a component for pushing the microneedle device 11 toward the skin through user operation. Switch 3 has an arm 31 and a piston 32. Arm 31 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped portion attached to the first side portion 23 so as to extend along the lateral direction D2. Therefore, the lateral direction D2 can also be said to be the direction of extension of arm 31. Arm 31 has a fixed end 31a attached to the first side portion 23 and a free end 31b located on the opposite side of the fixed end 31a. Arm 31 is capable of moving in an arc along the height direction D1 with the fixed end 31a as a pivot point, and this movement allows the free end 31b to move along the height direction D1. Arm 31 may be made of a member or material that generates elastic force, for example, an elastic member such as a leaf spring. Alternatively, arm 31 may be a non-elastic member, or a flexible member. Piston 32 is a plate-shaped portion attached to the free end 31b. The piston 32 has a piston surface 32a that faces the skin. In one example, the switch 3 is formed symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1. In one example, the arm 31 extends parallel to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3. The arm 31 may also extend inclined with respect to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3.

[0130] In the set state, the microneedle device 11 is positioned between the piston 32 and the base 21. The microneedle device 11 is positioned within the main body 2 such that it is located between the piston 32 and the skin when the base 21 is in contact with the skin. In other words, the piston 32, the microneedle device 11, and the base 21 (skin) are arranged in this order along the height direction D1. When applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin, the piston 32 is pushed toward the skin by the user. In other words, the piston 32 is pushed toward the base 21 in the height direction D1 by the user. At this time, the arm 31 moves in conjunction with the movement of the piston 32, moving in an arc shape with the fixed end 31a as the pivot point. The piston surface 32a comes into contact with the microneedle device 11 when pushed toward the skin by the user. In the set state, the piston surface 32a may or may not come into contact with the microneedle device 11.

[0131] When the applicator 1D is viewed along the height direction D1, the entire switch 3 is located inside the opening 21a. This ensures that the switch 3 does not come into contact with the bottom 21 when the piston 32 is pressed against the skin by the user.

[0132] When the applicator 1D is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the top 22 of the main body 2 does not cover the piston 32, or for example, the entire switch 3. The applicator 1D does not have a portion that covers the piston 32 from the side of the top 22, or for example, a portion that covers the entire switch 3 from the side of the top 22. Therefore, when the applicator 1D is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the piston 32 is exposed to the outside of the applicator 1D.

[0133] The stopper 4 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11, which is positioned within the main body 2 between the piston 32 and the skin. As described above, the applicator 1D has one or more stoppers 4, for example, two stoppers 4. The two stoppers 4 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to a reference axis of a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extending direction of the arm 31. As an example, the two stoppers 4 are positioned along the width direction D3, flanking the vicinity of the free end 31b of the arm 31. In the set state, the two stoppers 4 are arranged along the outer edge of the microneedle device 11. Each stopper 4 is attached across the inner surface of the bottom portion 21 defining the opening 21a and the inner surface of the wall portion 26 continuous with the inner surface of the bottom portion 21. Each stopper 4 has a columnar shape extending along the height direction D1. For example, the bottom surface of the stopper 4 is located on the same plane as the bottom surface of the main body 2 (the surface that comes into contact with the skin when the applicator 1D is placed on the skin).

[0134] When viewed from the height direction D1, the stopper 4 overlaps with the opening 21a but does not overlap with the switch 3. Therefore, when the switch 3 moves, the stopper 4 does not come into contact with the switch 3. The stopper 4 has a placement surface 4a on which the microneedle device 11 is placed in the set state. The placement surface 4a is an upward-facing surface and is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the height direction D1. The placement surface 4a may also be parallel to the plane perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0135] The stopper 4 is positioned closer to the arm 31 than to the end 32b of the piston 32 on the centerline CL1. The end 32b is also the end of the switch 3 on the centerline CL1 and is located on the opposite side from the fixed end 31a. Therefore, in the set state, the stopper 4 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 that is on the side of the arm 31. As an example, the stopper 4 supports the peripheral edge 11c. The stopper 4 may also support the platform surface 11d, as long as it does not come into contact with the microneedle 11a.

[0136] If the arm 31 can generate elastic force, such as an elastic member like a leaf spring, then the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22, generating elastic force in the arm 31. For example, when the microneedle device 11 inserted into the main body 2 through the opening 21a pushes the piston 32 upward, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22. Alternatively, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22 due to such an insertion operation by the user. The switch 3, for example, the piston 32, transmits the elastic force generated in the arm 31 to the microneedle device 11, which is supported by the stopper 4. At this time, the switch 3 is in contact with the microneedle device 11. The arm 31 may be in contact with the microneedle device 11, or the piston surface 32a may be in contact with the microneedle device 11. The stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 against the elastic force. In this way, the microneedle device 11 is supported against the elastic force by being gripped by the switch 3 and the stopper 4.

[0137] Rib 5 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11 together with the stopper 4. Rib 5 is located in a different position from the stopper 4. For example, rib 5 is located on a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extending direction of the arm 31. Rib 5 is positioned closer to the end 32b than to the arm 31. Therefore, in the set state, rib 5 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 on the end 32b side. Rib 5 extends along the height direction D1 from the top 22 to the bottom 21. Rib 5 does not reach the bottom surface of the main body 2 in the height direction D1 and does not come into contact with the skin when the applicator 1D is placed on the skin. Rib 5 is provided with a projection 51 that, when viewed from the height direction D1, protrudes toward the end 32b of the piston 32. A gap is formed between the entire bottom and sides of rib 5 and the other components of the main body 2, so that rib 5 can bend along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1. As described above, the applicator 1D may have a single rib 5 or two or more ribs 5. For example, two ribs 5 may be provided symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1 as the reference axis, similar to the stopper 4.

[0138] The rib 5 is in contact with at least the side surface 11e of the microneedle device 11 supported by the stopper 4. The projection 51 of the rib 5 supports the peripheral edge 11c from below. This allows the microneedle device 11 to be held more stably. The rib 5 may also push the microneedle device 11 towards the stopper 4. While the stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 from below, the rib 5 can be said to support the microneedle device 11 from the side and from below, respectively. The projection 51 of the rib 5 may also support the platform surface 11d from below, as long as it does not come into contact with the microneedle 11a.

[0139] The canopy portion 6 is a component that stops the movement of the microneedle device 11 within the body 2 so that the microneedle device 11, which is inserted into the body 2 from the opening 21a and moves toward the top portion 22, does not protrude from above the body 2. As described above, the applicator 1D has one or more canopy portions 6, for example, four canopy portions 6. As an example, the four canopy portions 6 are arranged symmetrically with respect to a reference axis of a virtual center line (center line CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. Two canopy portions 6 are arranged closer to the end 32b of the piston 32 than to the arm 31. The other two canopy portions 6 are arranged closer to the arm 31 than to the end 32b. When viewed from the height direction D1, the other two canopy portions 6 are located inside the body 2 more than the stopper 4 and are positioned to sandwich the vicinity of the free end 31b of the arm 31. When viewed from the height direction D1, the canopy portion 6 overlaps with the opening 21a but does not overlap with the switch 3. As a result, when the switch 3 moves, the canopy portion 6 does not come into contact with the switch 3. The canopy portion 6 may be formed integrally with the wall portion 26.

[0140] The eaves portion 6 is positioned so that in the height direction D1 it is closer to the top 22 than the placement surface 4a of the stopper 4. That is, the eaves portion 6 is located above the stopper 4. The distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a in the height direction D1 is greater than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. From the viewpoint of holding the microneedle device 11 more stably, the distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a may be the same as the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11, or less than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c. The lower end 6a is the end of the eaves portion 6 that is located on the bottom 21 side in the height direction D1. The upper end 4b is the end of the placement surface 4a that is located on the top 22 side in the height direction D1. In the applicator 1D, the upper end 4b is the upper end of the stopper 4.

[0141] The visor portion 6 is provided so as to cover at least a portion of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11, supported by the stopper 4, is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. For example, the visor portion 6 covers a portion of the peripheral edge 11c. For example, the visor portion 6 is provided partially along the peripheral edge 11c so that the rest of the peripheral edge 11c is visible when the microneedle device 11 is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. In the applicator 1D, the visor portion 6 is provided at four locations along the peripheral edge 11c.

[0142] Next, with reference to Figure 22, the series of steps involved in applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin will be described.

[0143] In the set state, the microneedle device 11 is supported from below by the stopper 4 and from the sides and below by the ribs 5. At this time, the piston 32 of the switch 3 is positioned above the microneedle device 11. When the user pushes the switch 3 toward the skin, the stopper 4 and the projection 51 of the rib 5 continue to support the microneedle device 11. As the microneedle device 11, pushed by the piston 32, moves over the projection 51, the microneedle device 11 slides downward on the placement surface 4a. At this time, the rib 5 bends outward along a direction perpendicular to the height direction D1, allowing the microneedle device 11 to move smoothly downward.

[0144] By further pressing the switch 3, the microneedle device 11, pushed by the piston 32, advances further below the placement surface 4a and reaches the skin. This causes the microneedle 11a to contact or puncture the skin. Thus, the microneedle device 11 is applied to the skin. As described above, in the applicator 1D, the user needs to press the switch 3 firmly for the microneedle device 11 to overcome the projection 51. This allows the microneedle device 11 to reach the skin more reliably.

[0145] [Application kit related to the fourth example] Referring to Figure 23, the configuration of the fourth example application kit 10D will be described. Figure 23 is a perspective view of the application kit 10D from above.

[0146] Stage 12 is an article for positioning the microneedle device 11 within the applicator 1D. Stage 12 includes a columnar portion 121 that extends along the height direction D1 to support the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 is partially provided along the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 includes a top surface 121a that supports the microneedle device 11. The top surface 121a is the surface facing the microneedle device 11. For example, the top surface 121a supports the peripheral edge 11c and does not contact the platform surface 11d.

[0147] The process in application kit 10D, from placing the microneedle device 11 on stage 12 into the applicator 1D, is the same as the process in application kit 10A, as explained with reference to Figure 7.

[0148] [Applicator related to the fifth example] The structure of the applicator 1E according to the fifth example will be described with reference to Figures 24 and 25. Figure 24 is a plan view of the applicator 1E seen from above. Figure 25 is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line XXV-XXV shown in Figure 24. Figures 24 and 25 show the applicator 1E in its natural state.

[0149] Applicator 1E comprises a main body 2, a switch 3, at least one stopper 4, and at least one visor 6. The material of applicator 1E is, for example, the same as the material of applicator 1A. The configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1E is the same as the configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1A.

[0150] The main body 2 is a structure that houses the various components such as the switch 3, and is formed by a combination of a roughly cylindrical portion and a roughly truncated square pyramidal portion. The main body 2 has a bottom portion 21, a top portion 22, a first side portion 23 (side portion), and a second side portion 24. The bottom portion 21 is the portion that contacts the skin when the applicator 1E is placed on the skin to apply the microneedle device 11 to the skin. The bottom portion 21 is formed by a combination of a roughly circular portion and a roughly trapezoidal portion. An opening 21a for inserting the microneedle device 11 into the main body 2 is formed approximately in the center of the bottom portion 21. The top portion 22 is the portion opposite the bottom portion 21, and therefore is located away from the skin when the applicator 1E is placed on the skin.

[0151] The definitions of height direction D1, lateral direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the following explanation are the same as the definitions of height direction D1, lateral direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the explanation of the first example. In addition, the side of the top 22 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the upper side of the applicator 1E, and the side of the bottom 21 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the lower side of the applicator 1E.

[0152] The first side portion 23 extends along the height direction D1 and defines the outer circumference of the main body 2. For example, the first side portion 23 extends along the circumferential direction of the bottom portion 21, from the entire outer edge of the bottom portion 21 along the height direction D1. The top surface of the first side portion 23 may exist or function as the top portion 22. For example, to improve user convenience, the height of a portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21 (e.g., the portion on the side of the fixed end 31a of the arm 31) may be lower than the height of the other portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21.

[0153] The second side portion 24 is connected to the first side portion 23 on its inner side. The second side portion 24 extends in an arc shape so as to form a gap between it and the first side portion 23. In the set state, the second side portion 24 extends along the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. Since a gap is formed between the entire surface of the second side portion 24 and the first side portion 23, the second side portion 24 can bend toward the first side portion 23.

[0154] As an example, the main body 2 is formed to be symmetric with respect to a virtual center line CL1 parallel to the horizontal direction D2. In other words, the bottom 21, top 22, first side 23, and second side 24 are each formed to be symmetric with respect to the center line CL1.

[0155] Switch 3 is a component for pushing the microneedle device 11 toward the skin through user operation. Switch 3 has an arm 31 and a piston 32. Arm 31 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped portion attached to the first side portion 23 so as to extend along the lateral direction D2. Thus, the lateral direction D2 can also be said to be the direction of extension of arm 31. Arm 31 has a fixed end 31a attached to the first side portion 23 and a free end 31b located on the opposite side from the fixed end 31a. Free ends 24a of the second side portion 24 are located on both sides of the free end 31b in the width direction D3. Arm 31 is capable of moving in an arc along the height direction D1 with the fixed end 31a as a pivot point, and this movement allows the free end 31b to move along the height direction D1. Arm 31 may be made of a member or material that generates elastic force, for example, an elastic member such as a leaf spring. Alternatively, arm 31 may be an inelastic member, or a flexible member. The piston 32 is a plate-shaped portion attached to the free end 31b. The piston 32 has a piston surface 32a that faces the skin. In one example, the switch 3 is formed symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1. In one example, the arm 31 extends parallel to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3. The arm 31 may also extend inclined with respect to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3.

[0156] In the set state, the microneedle device 11 is positioned between the piston 32 and the base 21. The microneedle device 11 is positioned within the main body 2 such that it is located between the piston 32 and the skin when the base 21 is in contact with the skin. In other words, the piston 32, the microneedle device 11, and the base 21 (skin) are arranged in this order along the height direction D1. When applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin, the piston 32 is pushed toward the skin by the user. In other words, the piston 32 is pushed toward the base 21 in the height direction D1 by the user. At this time, the arm 31 moves in conjunction with the movement of the piston 32, moving in an arc shape with the fixed end 31a as the pivot point. The piston surface 32a comes into contact with the microneedle device 11 when pushed toward the skin by the user. In the set state, the piston surface 32a may or may not come into contact with the microneedle device 11.

[0157] When the applicator 1E is viewed along the height direction D1, the entire switch 3 is located inside the opening 21a. This ensures that the switch 3 does not come into contact with the bottom 21 when the piston 32 is pressed towards the skin by the user.

[0158] When the applicator 1E is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the top 22 of the main body 2 does not cover the piston 32, or for example, the entire switch 3. The applicator 1E does not have a portion that covers the piston 32 from the side of the top 22, or for example, a portion that covers the entire switch 3 from the side of the top 22. Therefore, when the applicator 1E is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the piston 32 is exposed to the outside of the applicator 1E.

[0159] The stopper 4 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11, which is positioned within the main body 2 between the piston 32 and the skin. As described above, the applicator 1E has one or more stoppers 4, for example, two stoppers 4. The two stoppers 4 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to a reference axis of a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. As an example, the two stoppers 4 are positioned along the width direction D3, flanking the vicinity of the free end 31b of the arm 31. In the applicator 1E, the two stoppers 4 are positioned closer to the free end 24a of the second side portion 24 than to the fixed end 24b. In the set state, the two stoppers 4 are positioned along the outer edge of the microneedle device 11. Each stopper 4 protrudes from the inner surface of the second side portion 24 toward the inside of the main body 2.

[0160] When viewed from the height direction D1, the stopper 4 overlaps with the opening 21a but does not overlap with the switch 3. Therefore, when the switch 3 moves, the stopper 4 does not come into contact with the switch 3. The stopper 4 has a placement surface 4a on which the microneedle device 11 is placed in the set state. The placement surface 4a is an upward-facing surface and is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the height direction D1. The placement surface 4a may also be parallel to the plane perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0161] The stopper 4 is positioned closer to the arm 31 than to the end 32b of the piston 32 on the centerline CL1. The end 32b is also the end of the switch 3 on the centerline CL1 and is located on the opposite side from the fixed end 31a. Therefore, in the set state, the stopper 4 mainly supports the portion of the microneedle device 11 that is on the side of the arm 31. As an example, the stopper 4 supports the peripheral edge 11c. The stopper 4 may also support the platform surface 11d, as long as it does not come into contact with the microneedle 11a.

[0162] If the arm 31 can generate elastic force, such as an elastic member like a leaf spring, then the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22, generating elastic force in the arm 31. For example, when the microneedle device 11 inserted into the main body 2 through the opening 21a pushes the piston 32 upward, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22. Alternatively, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22 due to such an insertion operation by the user. The switch 3, for example, the piston 32, transmits the elastic force generated in the arm 31 to the microneedle device 11, which is supported by the stopper 4. At this time, the switch 3 is in contact with the microneedle device 11. The arm 31 may be in contact with the microneedle device 11, or the piston surface 32a may be in contact with the microneedle device 11. The stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 against the elastic force. In this way, the microneedle device 11 is supported against the elastic force by being gripped by the switch 3 and the stopper 4.

[0163] The canopy portion 6 is a component that stops the movement of the microneedle device 11 within the body 2 so that the microneedle device 11, which is inserted into the body 2 from the opening 21a and moves toward the top portion 22, does not protrude from above the body 2. As described above, the applicator 1E has one or more canopy portions 6, for example, three canopy portions 6. As an example, one canopy portion 6 is located on a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extending direction of the arm 31 and is provided on the first side portion 23. The other two canopy portions 6 are located symmetrically with respect to the virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 as a reference axis and are provided on the second side portion 24. These two canopy portions 6 are located in the center of the second side portion 24 and are separated from the free end 24a of the second side portion 24. When viewed from the height direction D1, the three canopy portions 6 protrude inward from the first side portion 23 or the second side portion 24 toward the body 2. When viewed from the height direction D1, the canopy portion 6 overlaps with the opening 21a but does not overlap with the switch 3. As a result, when the switch 3 moves, the canopy portion 6 does not come into contact with the switch 3.

[0164] The eaves portion 6 is positioned so that in the height direction D1 it is closer to the top 22 than the placement surface 4a of the stopper 4. That is, the eaves portion 6 is located above the stopper 4. The distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a in the height direction D1 is greater than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. From the viewpoint of holding the microneedle device 11 more stably, the distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a may be the same as the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11, or less than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c. The lower end 6a is the end of the eaves portion 6 that is located on the bottom 21 side in the height direction D1. The upper end 4b is the end of the placement surface 4a that is located on the top 22 side in the height direction D1. In the applicator 1E, the upper end 4b is the upper end of the stopper 4.

[0165] The visor portion 6 is provided so as to cover at least a portion of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11, supported by the stopper 4, is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. For example, the visor portion 6 covers a portion of the peripheral edge 11c. For example, the visor portion 6 is provided partially along the peripheral edge 11c so that the rest of the peripheral edge 11c is visible when the microneedle device 11 is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. In the applicator 1E, the visor portion 6 is provided in three locations along the peripheral edge 11c.

[0166] Next, the sequence of operations from the application of the microneedle device 11 to the skin when using applicator 1E will be described. This operation is the same as the operation in applicator 1A, which was described with reference to Figure 4. That is, when the user pushes switch 3 toward the skin, the microneedle device 11 overcomes stopper 4 and reaches the skin. When the microneedle device 11 overcomes stopper 4, the second side portion 24 on which the stopper 4 is provided bends toward the first side portion 23, so the microneedle device 11 moves smoothly downward. In applicator 1E, the stopper 4 is located closer to the free end 24a of the second side portion 24 than to the fixed end 24b. As the second side portion 24 approaches the free end 24a, it becomes easier for it to bend toward the first side portion 23, so the stopper 4 moves toward the first side portion 23.

[0167] [Application kit related to the fifth example] Referring to Figure 26, the configuration of the application kit 10E for the fifth example will be described. Figure 26 is a perspective view of the application kit 10E from above.

[0168] Stage 12 is an article for positioning the microneedle device 11 within the applicator 1E. Stage 12 includes a columnar portion 121 that extends along the height direction D1 to support the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 is partially provided along the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 includes a top surface 121a that supports the microneedle device 11 and a projection 121b that protrudes from the top surface 121a along the height direction D1. The top surface 121a is the surface facing the microneedle device 11. For example, the top surface 121a supports the peripheral edge 11c and does not contact the platform surface 11d. The projection 121b is located outside the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11 supported by the columnar portion 121 is viewed from the side of the microneedle device 11 along the height direction D1. The projection 121b may or may not be in contact with the side surface 11e of the microneedle device 11.

[0169] The process in application kit 10E, from placing the microneedle device 11 on stage 12 to placing it inside the applicator 1E, is the same as the process in application kit 10A, as explained with reference to Figure 7.

[0170] [Applicator related to Example 6] The structure of applicator 1F in the sixth example will be described with reference to Figures 27 and 28. Figure 27 is a plan view of applicator 1F seen from above. Figure 28 is a perspective cross-sectional view along the line XXVIII-XXVIII shown in Figure 27. Figures 27 and 28 show applicator 1F in its natural state.

[0171] Applicator 1F comprises a main body 2, at least one switch 3, at least one stopper 4, and at least one visor 6. The material of applicator 1F is, for example, the same as the material of applicator 1A. The configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1F is the same as the configuration of the microneedle device 11 set in applicator 1A.

[0172] The main body 2 is a roughly diamond-shaped structure that houses the various components such as the switch 3. The main body 2 has a bottom portion 21, a top portion 22, a first side portion 23 (side portion), and a second side portion 24. The bottom portion 21 is the part that contacts the skin when the applicator 1F is placed on the skin to apply the microneedle device 11 to the skin. The bottom portion 21 has a roughly diamond shape. An opening 21a for inserting the microneedle device 11 into the main body 2 is formed approximately in the center of the bottom portion 21. The top portion 22 is the part opposite the bottom portion 21 and is therefore located away from the skin when the applicator 1F is placed on the skin.

[0173] The definitions of height direction D1, horizontal direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the following explanation are the same as the definitions of height direction D1, horizontal direction D2, and width direction D3 used in the explanation of the first example. In addition, the side of the top 22 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the upper side of the applicator 1F, and the side of the bottom 21 in the height direction D1 is sometimes referred to as the lower side of the applicator 1F.

[0174] The first side portion 23 extends along the height direction D1 and defines the outer circumference of the main body 2. For example, the first side portion 23 extends along the circumferential direction of the bottom portion 21, from the entire outer edge of the bottom portion 21 along the height direction D1. The top surface of the first side portion 23 may exist or function as the top portion 22. For example, to improve user convenience, the height of a portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21 (e.g., the portion on the side of the fixed end 31a of the arm 31) may be lower than the height of the other portion of the first side portion 23 from the bottom portion 21.

[0175] The second side portion 24 is connected to the first side portion 23 on its inner side. The second side portion 24 extends in an arc shape so as to form a gap between it and the first side portion 23. In the set state, the second side portion 24 extends along the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. Since a gap is formed between the entire surface of the second side portion 24 and the first side portion 23, the second side portion 24 can bend toward the first side portion 23.

[0176] As an example, the main body 2 is formed to be point-symmetric with respect to the center of the main body 2. The bottom portion 21, the top portion 22, and the first side portion 23 are each formed to be line-symmetric with respect to a virtual center line CL1 parallel to the lateral direction D2 as the reference axis. The second side portion 24 is formed to be point-symmetric with respect to the center of the main body 2.

[0177] Switch 3 is a component for pushing the microneedle device 11 toward the skin through user operation. As described above, the applicator 1F has one or more switches 3, for example, two switches 3. The two switches 3 are positioned symmetrically with respect to a virtual center line CL2 parallel to the width direction D3 of the microneedle device 11 in the set state. Each switch 3 has an arm 31 and a piston 32. The arm 31 is a substantially rectangular plate-shaped portion attached to the first side portion 23 so as to extend along the lateral direction D2. Thus, the lateral direction D2 can also be said to be the direction of extension of the arm 31. The arm 31 has a fixed end 31a attached to the first side portion 23 and a free end 31b located on the opposite side from the fixed end 31a. The free end 24a of the second side portion 24 is located near the free end 31b. The arm 31 is capable of moving in an arc along the height direction D1 with its fixed end 31a as a pivot point, and this movement allows the free end 31b to move along the height direction D1. The arm 31 may be made of a member or material that generates elastic force, for example, an elastic member such as a leaf spring. Alternatively, the arm 31 may be an inelastic member, or a flexible member. The piston 32 is a plate-shaped portion attached to the free end 31b. The piston 32 has a piston surface 32a that faces the skin. In one example, the switch 3 is formed symmetrically with respect to the center line CL1. In one example, the arm 31 extends parallel to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3. The arm 31 may extend inclined with respect to the lateral direction D2 when viewed from the width direction D3.

[0178] In the set state, the microneedle device 11 is positioned between the piston 32 and the base 21. The microneedle device 11 is positioned within the main body 2 such that it is located between the piston 32 and the skin when the base 21 is in contact with the skin. In other words, the piston 32, the microneedle device 11, and the base 21 (skin) are arranged in this order along the height direction D1. When applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin, the piston 32 is pushed toward the skin by the user. In other words, the piston 32 is pushed toward the base 21 in the height direction D1 by the user. At this time, the arm 31 moves in conjunction with the movement of the piston 32, moving in an arc shape with the fixed end 31a as the pivot point. The piston surface 32a comes into contact with the microneedle device 11 when pushed toward the skin by the user. In the set state, the piston surface 32a may or may not come into contact with the microneedle device 11.

[0179] When the applicator 1F is viewed along the height direction D1, the entire switch 3 is located inside the opening 21a. As a result, the switch 3 does not come into contact with the bottom 21 when the piston 32 is pressed towards the skin by the user.

[0180] When the applicator 1F is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the top 22 of the main body 2 does not cover the piston 32, or for example, the entire switch 3. The applicator 1F does not have a portion that covers the piston 32 from the side of the top 22, or for example, a portion that covers the entire switch 3 from the side of the top 22. Therefore, when the applicator 1F is viewed from the side of the top 22 along the height direction D1, the piston 32 is exposed to the outside of the applicator 1F.

[0181] The stopper 4 is a component that supports the microneedle device 11, which is positioned within the main body 2 so as to be located between the piston 32 and the skin. As described above, the applicator 1F has one or more stoppers 4, for example, two stoppers 4. The two stoppers 4 may be positioned symmetrically with respect to a reference axis of a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. As an example, the two stoppers 4 are positioned to sandwich the piston 32 along the width direction D3. The two stoppers 4 may be positioned on the centerline CL2. In the set state, the two stoppers 4 are positioned along the outer edge of the microneedle device 11. Each stopper 4 protrudes from the inner surface of the second side portion 24 toward the inside of the main body 2. In the applicator 1F, the two stoppers 4 are positioned approximately in the center of the second side portion 24.

[0182] When viewed from the height direction D1, the stopper 4 overlaps with the opening 21a but does not overlap with the switch 3. Therefore, when the switch 3 moves, the projection 41 does not come into contact with the switch 3. The stopper 4 has a placement surface 4a on which the microneedle device 11 is placed in the set state. The placement surface 4a is an upward-facing surface and is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the height direction D1. The placement surface 4a may also be parallel to the plane perpendicular to the height direction D1.

[0183] For example, the stopper 4 supports the peripheral edge 11c. The stopper 4 may also support the platform surface 11d, as long as it does not come into contact with the microneedle 11a.

[0184] If the arm 31 can generate elastic force, such as an elastic member like a leaf spring, then the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22, generating elastic force in the arm 31. For example, when the microneedle device 11 inserted into the main body 2 through the opening 21a pushes the piston 32 upward, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22. Alternatively, the arm 31 deforms toward the top 22 due to such an insertion operation by the user. The switch 3, for example, the piston 32, transmits the elastic force generated in the arm 31 to the microneedle device 11, which is supported by the stopper 4. At this time, the switch 3 is in contact with the microneedle device 11. The arm 31 may be in contact with the microneedle device 11, or the piston surface 32a may be in contact with the microneedle device 11. The stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 against the elastic force. In this way, the microneedle device 11 is supported against the elastic force by being gripped by the switch 3 and the stopper 4.

[0185] The canopy portion 6 is a component that stops the movement of the microneedle device 11 within the body 2 so that the microneedle device 11, which is inserted into the body 2 from the opening 21a and moves toward the top portion 22, does not protrude from above the body 2. As described above, the applicator 1F has one or more canopy portions 6, for example, four canopy portions 6. As an example, the four canopy portions 6 are provided symmetrically with respect to a reference axis of a virtual center line (center line CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. Each canopy portion 6 is provided at the free end 24a or fixed end 24b of the second side portion 24. When viewed from the height direction D1, the canopy portion 6 protrudes from the second side portion 24 toward the inside of the body 2. When viewed from the height direction D1, the canopy portion 6 overlaps with the opening 21a and does not overlap with the switch 3. As a result, when the switch 3 moves, the canopy portion 6 does not come into contact with the switch 3.

[0186] The eaves portion 6 is positioned so that in the height direction D1 it is closer to the top 22 than the placement surface 4a of the stopper 4. That is, the eaves portion 6 is located above the stopper 4. The distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a in the height direction D1 is greater than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. From the viewpoint of holding the microneedle device 11 more stably, the distance between the lower end 6a of the eaves portion 6 and the upper end 4b of the placement surface 4a may be the same as the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11, or less than the thickness of the peripheral edge 11c. The lower end 6a is the end of the eaves portion 6 that is located on the bottom 21 side in the height direction D1. The upper end 4b is the end of the placement surface 4a that is located on the top 22 side in the height direction D1. In the applicator 1F, the upper end 4b is the upper end of the stopper 4.

[0187] The visor portion 6 is provided so as to cover at least a portion of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11, supported by the stopper 4, is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. For example, the visor portion 6 covers a portion of the peripheral edge 11c. For example, the visor portion 6 is provided partially along the peripheral edge 11c so that the rest of the peripheral edge 11c is visible when the microneedle device 11 is viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. In the applicator 1F, the visor portion 6 is provided at four locations along the peripheral edge 11c.

[0188] The sequence of operations when using applicator 1F to apply the microneedle device 11 to the skin is the same as the operation with applicator 1A, as described with reference to Figure 4. That is, when the user pushes switch 3 toward the skin, the microneedle device 11 overcomes stopper 4 and reaches the skin. As the microneedle device 11 overcomes stopper 4, the second side portion 24 on which the stopper 4 is provided bends toward the first side portion 23, allowing the microneedle device 11 to move smoothly downward.

[0189] [Application kit related to example 6] Referring to Figure 29, the configuration of the application kit 10F for the sixth example will be described. Figure 29 is a perspective view of the application kit 10F from above.

[0190] Stage 12 is an article for positioning the microneedle device 11 within the applicator 1F. Stage 12 includes a columnar portion 121 that extends along the height direction D1 to support the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 is partially provided along the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. The columnar portion 121 has a top surface 121a that supports the microneedle device 11. The top surface 121a is the surface facing the microneedle device 11. For example, the top surface 121a supports the peripheral edge 11c and does not contact the platform surface 11d.

[0191] The process in application kit 10F, from placing the microneedle device 11 on stage 12 to placing it inside applicator 1F, is the same as the process in application kit 10A, as explained with reference to Figure 7.

[0192] [Mechanism of Action and Effects] In applicators 1A to 1F, the microneedle device 11, positioned within the main body 2 between the piston 32 and the skin, is supported by the stopper 4. This allows the piston 32 to make stable contact with the microneedle device 11 when the user pushes the piston 32 toward the skin. As a result, the microneedle device 11 is reliably pushed toward the skin. Therefore, the microneedle device 11 can be properly applied to the skin.

[0193] In applicators 1A to 1F, the switch 3 transmits the elastic force generated by the deformation of the arm 31 toward the top 22 to the microneedle device 11, the stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 against the elastic force, and the microneedle device 11 is supported against the elastic force by being gripped by the switch 3 and the stopper 4. This allows the microneedle device 11 to be held stably.

[0194] In applicators 1A to 1F, the two stoppers 4 are positioned symmetrically with respect to a virtual center line (center line CL1) of the arm 31 along its extension direction. This ensures that when the piston 32 contacts the microneedle device 11, the user's pushing force is applied almost uniformly to the two stoppers 4. Consequently, the microneedle device 11 can be easily pushed straight towards the skin, allowing for proper application of the microneedle device 11 to the skin.

[0195] In applicators 1A to 1E, the two stoppers 4 are positioned closer to the arm 31 than the end of the piston 32 on the virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extending direction of the arm 31. When the stoppers 4 support the microneedle device 11 against the elastic force of the arm 31, this elastic force is more easily transmitted to the stoppers 4. Therefore, the microneedle device 11 can be held more stably.

[0196] Applicators 1A to 1D are positioned differently from the stopper 4 and are equipped with ribs 5 that contact the side surface 11e of the microneedle device 11, which is supported by the stopper 4. This allows the microneedle device 11 to be held stably.

[0197] In applicators 1A to 1C, the microneedle device 11 has a main surface 11b on which the microneedles 11a are provided, and the rib 5 contacts the side surface 11e of the microneedle device 11 without contacting the main surface 11b which is supported by the stopper 4. This prevents the rib 5 from contacting the microneedles 11a, and as a result, prevents the microneedles 11a from breaking.

[0198] In applicators 1A to 1D, the rib 5 is positioned on a virtual centerline (centerline CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. This makes it easier for the user's pressing force to act straight along the centerline on the rib 5 when applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin, and as a result, it becomes easier to push the microneedle device 11 toward the skin.

[0199] In applicators 1A to 1F, the visor portion 6 is provided to cover at least a portion of the peripheral edge 11c of the microneedle device 11. As a result, when the microneedle device 11 moves toward the top portion 22, the visor portion 6 stops the movement of the microneedle device 11 within the main body 2. Therefore, the microneedle device 11 can be securely set in applicator 1A.

[0200] The above effects will be further explained. In applicators 1A to 1F, the top portion 22 of the main body 2 does not cover the switch 3 when viewed from the side of the top portion 22 along the height direction D1. Therefore, if the visor portion 6 is not provided, when the microneedle device 11 is placed inside the applicators 1A to 1F from below, there is a risk that the microneedle device 11 will protrude above the applicators 1A to 1F. However, since the visor portion 6 is provided in applicators 1A to 1F, it is possible to prevent the microneedle device 11 from protruding above the applicators 1A to 1F.

[0201] In applicators 1A to 1F, the switch 3 transmits an elastic force to the microneedle device 11 generated by the deformation of the arm 31 toward the top 22, and the stopper 4 supports the microneedle device 11 against this elastic force. When the arm 31 is deformed toward the top 22 and the microneedle device 11 in contact with the switch 3 moves toward the top 22, the hood 6 stops the movement of the microneedle device 11 toward the top 22. This ensures that the microneedle device 11 is held stably and prevents the microneedle device 11 from flying out above applicators 1A to 1F when the user operates the switch 3.

[0202] In applicators 1A to 1F, the visor portion 6 covers a part of the peripheral edge 11c, and is partially provided along the peripheral edge 11c so that when the microneedle device 11, supported by the stopper 4, is viewed from the top 22 side along the height direction D1, the rest of the peripheral edge 11c is visible. This allows the user to easily visually confirm the position of the microneedle device 11 even when the visor portion 6 is provided.

[0203] In applicators 1A to 1F, the eaves portion 6 is formed to be symmetrical with respect to a virtual center line (center line CL1) of the arm 31 along the extension direction of the arm 31. This allows the eaves portion 6 to more reliably stop the movement of the microneedle device 11 toward the top 22.

[0204] Applicators 1A to 1C are equipped with a retrieval mechanism 7 that holds the microneedle device 11 when the microneedle device 11 is applied to the skin by the user operating switch 3. As a result, when applicators 1A to 1C are removed from the skin, the microneedle device 11 applied to the skin is held by the retrieval mechanism 7 and removed from the skin together with the applicators 1A to 1C. Therefore, the microneedle device 11 applied to the skin can be easily retrieved.

[0205] In applicators 1A to 1C, the retrieval mechanism 7 is equipped with two claws 71 that grip the microneedle device 11. This makes it easy to realize a configuration in which the retrieval mechanism 7 holds the microneedle device 11.

[0206] In applicators 1A and 1B, each of the two claws 71 is positioned on the piston 32 so as to be outside the piston surface 32a of the piston 32. This allows the claws 71 to easily grip the microneedle device 11 while the microneedle device 11 is in contact with the piston surface 32a.

[0207] In applicators 1A and 1B, the two claws 71 grasp the microneedle device 11 before it reaches the skin in response to the piston 32 moving toward the skin. This ensures that the microneedle device 11 is securely held.

[0208] Applicators 1A and 1B are equipped with stoppers 4 that support the microneedle device 11, which is positioned within the main body 2 between the piston 32 and the skin. This ensures that the microneedle device 11 remains supported by the stoppers 4 when the two claws 71 grip the microneedle device 11. Thus, the two claws 71 can securely grip the microneedle device 11.

[0209] In applicators 1A to 1C, the two claws 71 do not grip the microneedle device 11 from the time it is inserted into the main body 2 toward the piston 32 until it is supported by the stopper 4. This allows the microneedle device 11 to be easily positioned inside the main body 2, even when the claws 71 are provided.

[0210] In the applicator 1C, the recovery mechanism 7 consists of multiple L-shaped members located on the outside of the piston 32. Each of the multiple L-shaped members has a horizontal portion 72 extending along the width direction D3, a vertical portion 73 extending from the inner end 72a of the horizontal portion 72 located inside the main body 2 to the top portion 22 along the height direction D1, and a claw 71 provided on the inner end 72a. By providing these multiple L-shaped members on the outside of the piston 32, the microneedle device 11 can be gripped by the multiple claws 71 without hindering the movement of the piston 32, which acts directly when applying the microneedle device 11 to the skin.

[0211] In the applicator 1C, the two claws 71 grasp the microneedle device 11 in response to its application to the skin. This allows for a more secure grip of the microneedle device 11 applied to the skin.

[0212] The applicator 1C is provided inside the main body 2 from the upper end 73a of the vertical portion 73 located on the side of the top portion 22, and includes a canopy portion 6 (block portion) that limits the range to which the vertical portion 73 tilts inward toward the main body 2. As a result, the vertical portion 73 does not tilt excessively toward the main body 2, and the microneedle device 11 can be kept inside the main body 2.

[0213] In application kits 10A to 10F, when the columnar portion 121 supporting the microneedle device 11 is inserted into the main body 2 toward the piston 32, the microneedle device 11 enters between the piston 32 and the stopper 4 and is supported by the stopper 4. This allows the microneedle device 11 to be easily placed inside the applicators 1A to 1F from outside the applicators 1A to 1F. Therefore, the microneedle device 11 can be easily set in the applicators 1A to 1F.

[0214] In application kits 10A and 10E, the columnar portion 121 has a top surface 121a that supports the microneedle device 11, and a projection 121b that protrudes from the top surface 121a. When the microneedle device 11 supported by the columnar portion 121 is viewed from the side of the microneedle device 11 along the height direction D1, the projection 121b is located on the outside of the microneedle device 11. This restricts the movement of the microneedle device 11 along a plane perpendicular to the height direction D1, so that the microneedle device 11 can be reliably set in the applicator 1A or 1E.

[0215] In application kits 10A to 10F, the microneedle device 11 has a main surface 11b on which one or more microneedles 11a are provided. The main surface 11b has a peripheral portion 11c that defines the outer edge of the microneedle device 11, and a platform surface 11d that is formed inside the peripheral portion 11c, rising from the peripheral portion 11c, and supporting one or more microneedles 11a. The columnar portion 121 has a top surface 121a that supports the peripheral portion 11c without contacting the platform surface 11d. This restricts the movement of the microneedle device 11 along a plane perpendicular to the height direction D1, so that the microneedle device 11 can be reliably set in the applicator 1A to 1F. In addition, it prevents the columnar portion 121 from contacting the microneedles 11a.

[0216] [Differentiation] The technology relating to this disclosure has been described in detail above based on various examples. However, this disclosure is not limited to the examples given above. The technology relating to this disclosure can be modified in various ways without departing from its essence.

[0217] In applicators 1A to 1C, the rib 5 may have a projection 51 that protrudes toward the end 32b of the piston 32 when viewed from the height direction D1, similar to applicator 1D. In this case, applicators 1A to 1C can hold the microneedle device 11 more stably.

[0218] Applicator 1A may further include two overhangs 6 located on the same side as the stopper 4 relative to the piston 32. That is, applicator 1A may have four overhangs 6, with two overhangs 6 and the other two overhangs 6 positioned to sandwich the piston 32. In applicator 1A, the four overhangs 6 may be positioned in the same locations as the four overhangs 6 provided in applicator 1D. In this case, the microneedle device 11 can be reliably set by applicator 1A.

[0219] In applicator 1A, the stopper 4 extended from the bottom 21 in the height direction D1, but the stopper 4 may also be provided so as to extend from the inner surface of the first side portion 23 toward the center of the main body 2.

[0220] [Note] As can be seen from the various examples above, this disclosure includes the following aspects: (Note 1) An applicator for applying a microneedle device to the skin, A stage for positioning the microneedle device within the applicator, Equipped with, The aforementioned applicator, A body having a bottom portion that contacts the skin, a top portion opposite the bottom portion, and a side portion that extends along the height direction from the bottom portion to the top portion, A switch having an arm attached to the side so as to extend laterally from the side toward the center of the main body, and a piston provided at the free end of the arm which is pressed toward the skin by the user, A stopper supporting the microneedle device, which is positioned within the main body so as to be located between the piston and the skin, Equipped with, The stage comprises a columnar portion extending along the height direction for supporting the microneedle device, In response to the columnar portion supporting the microneedle device being inserted into the main body toward the piston, the microneedle device enters between the piston and the stopper and is supported by the stopper. Application kit. (Note 2) The columnar portion is, The top surface supporting the microneedle device, The projection protruding from the top surface, Equipped with, When the microneedle device supported by the columnar portion is viewed from the side of the microneedle device along the height direction, the projection is located on the outside of the microneedle device. The application kit described in Appendix 1. (Note 3) The microneedle device comprises a main surface on which one or more microneedles are provided, The main surface is, A peripheral portion defining the outer edge of the microneedle device, A platform surface is formed on the inside of the peripheral edge so as to rise from the peripheral edge and supports one or more microneedles, Equipped with, The columnar portion has a top surface that supports the peripheral portion without contacting the platform surface. The application kit described in Appendix 1 or 2. [Explanation of symbols]

[0221] 1A~1F...Applicator, 2...Main body, 3...Switch, 4...Stopper, 10A~10F...Application kit, 11...Microneedle device, 11a...Microneedle, 11b...Main surface, 11c...Peripheral part, 11d...Platform surface, 12...Stage, 21...Bottom part, 22...Top part, 23...First side part, 31...Arm, 31b...Free end, 32...Piston, 121...Columnar part, 121a...Top surface, 121b...Protrusion, D1...Height direction, D2...Lateral direction.

Claims

1. An applicator for applying a microneedle device to the skin, A stage for positioning the microneedle device within the applicator, Equipped with, The aforementioned applicator, A body having a bottom portion that contacts the skin, a top portion opposite the bottom portion, and a side portion that extends along the height direction from the bottom portion to the top portion, A switch having an arm attached to the side so as to extend laterally from the side toward the center of the main body, and a piston provided at the free end of the arm which is pressed toward the skin by the user, A stopper supporting the microneedle device, which is positioned within the main body so as to be located between the piston and the skin, Equipped with, The stage comprises a columnar portion extending along the height direction for supporting the microneedle device, The microneedle device comprises a main surface on which one or more microneedles are provided, The main surface includes a peripheral portion that defines the outer edge of the microneedle device, The columnar portion is partially provided along the peripheral edge, In response to the columnar portion supporting the microneedle device being inserted into the main body toward the piston, the microneedle device enters between the piston and the stopper and is supported by the stopper. Application kit.

2. The columnar portion is, The top surface supporting the microneedle device, The projection protruding from the top surface, Equipped with, When the microneedle device supported by the columnar portion is viewed from the side of the microneedle device along the height direction, the projection is located on the outside of the microneedle device. The application kit according to claim 1.

3. The main surface is formed on the inside of the peripheral edge so as to rise from the peripheral edge and comprises a platform surface for supporting one or more microneedles, The columnar portion has a top surface that supports the peripheral portion without contacting the platform surface. The application kit according to claim 1 or 2.

Images