Microcurrent Skin Applicator for Multi-Molecule Transdermal Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing iontophoresis and electroporesis systems are inconvenient for users and clinicians due to their configuration for distinct classes of molecules, leading to inadequate treatment adherence and potential health complications, and they struggle to effectively deliver a wide range of molecule types through the skin.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an applicator capsule with electrodes for electrical current transmission and a contact-less piston for composition delivery, controlled by circuitry that selects programs based on compound identity, enabling iontophoresis and electroporesis for diverse molecules, and includes RF warming to relax skin layers for enhanced delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing iontophoresis and electroporesis systems are configured for distinct classes of molecules, then delivery of specific molecule types is achieved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to multiple configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a single device configuration that can deliver both small molecules (via iontophoresis) and large molecules (via electroporesis) by dynamically switching between different electrical current programs. The control circuitry automatically selects the appropriate program based on composition identification, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated devices while maintaining versatility across different molecule types.
2Measurement precision
If existing systems require manual configuration for different molecule types, then delivery accuracy is maintained, but ease of operation and treatment adherence worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automatic program selection through control circuitry that identifies the composition type (small or large molecules) and autonomously configures the appropriate electrical current program. This self-service capability eliminates manual configuration requirements, making the device as easy to use as traditional topical applications while maintaining precise delivery accuracy for different molecule types.
3Productivity
If RF warming is applied to relax skin layers, then delivery efficacy of compounds is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies RF warming as a preliminary step before compound delivery to relax skin layers and enhance permeability. By preparing the skin barrier in advance through thermal relaxation, the system creates more efficient pathways for subsequent compound transport, thereby improving overall delivery efficacy while managing energy consumption through targeted pre-treatment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively delivers both small and large molecules through the skin, improving treatment adherence by accommodating diverse therapeutic compositions and enhancing delivery efficacy through skin warming.
Implementation Method 1
The contact-less piston is responsive to an activation of an electromagnet and the at least one operation comprises activation of the electromagnet for movement of the contact-less piston
Implementation Method 2
the electrical current induces iontophoresis of at least one compound of the composition through the portion of skin
Implementation Method 3
The RF warming electrical current creates one or more microchannels in a dermal layer of the portion of skin
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for application of a composition to the skin of a subject using electroporation, iontophoresis, and in at least some instances, radiofrequency (RF) warming to facilitate penetration of the skin by one or more compounds of the composition, such as one or more drugs. A system includes an applicator capsule that includes a rollerball configured for a rolling contact with the portion of skin of the subject and a plurality of electrodes configured for a transmission of an electrical current through the portion of skin of the subject. A reservoir of the system is reversibly attachable to the body and is configured to hold and release the composition therefrom to fluidly connect the interior of the applicator capsule to an exterior of the applicator capsule for delivery of the composition from the interior of the applicator capsule to the portion of skin.