Modular Active Ingredient Delivery System with Electronic Pump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing active ingredient delivery systems, such as transdermal therapeutic systems and microneedle-based systems, are limited in their ability to deliver pharmaceuticals at time intervals or over extended periods without requiring removal and reapplication, and are often complex and costly to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A modular active ingredient delivery system comprising separate active ingredient and electronic components, where the active ingredient is stored in a reservoir connected to a delivery system with a pumping mechanism controlled by an electronic control unit, allowing for precise timing and duration of delivery via hollow microneedles, with a replaceable reservoir and integrated sensors for patient data monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a pump integrated into the system is used to deliver active ingredient at predetermined times, then active ingredient delivery at time intervals is enabled, but the system becomes very complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: an active ingredient reservoir, a microneedle array for delivery, and an electronic control unit with pump. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture while enabling timed delivery functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
An electronic control unit acts as an intermediary between the user and the active ingredient delivery system. This intermediary manages the timing and control of pump activation, enabling scheduled deliveries without requiring complex mechanical timing mechanisms integrated into the delivery system itself.
2Ease of operation
If transdermal patches are used for continuous active ingredient delivery, then painless delivery is achieved, but active ingredient delivery at intervals requires removal and reapplication
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static continuous delivery patches to a dynamic controlled delivery system. The microneedle array with electronic-controlled pump can adjust delivery timing and duration dynamically, allowing both continuous and interval-based delivery modes without requiring removal and reapplication.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous presence on the skin through the adhesive patch while enabling controlled delivery intervals through electronic control. The microneedles remain in place but the pump can be activated or deactivated at predetermined times, maintaining continuous useful action without requiring removal.
3Ease of operation
If microneedles are used for active ingredient delivery, then painless delivery to dermis is achieved, but the system cannot deliver at intervals without removal
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the painless delivery capability of microneedles with the interval-based delivery control of electronic pumps. The microneedle array provides the painless delivery pathway to the dermis while the electronic control unit manages timed activation, combining both functionalities in a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical timing mechanisms with electronic control for delivering active ingredient at intervals. Instead of mechanical timers or removable/reapplyable mechanisms, an electronic control unit with pump provides precise timing control, enabling interval-based delivery while maintaining the painless microneedle delivery pathway.
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
Enables reliable and cost-effective delivery of pharmaceuticals over extended periods or at specific intervals with reduced complexity and manufacturing costs, while ensuring sterility and ease of use, and allowing for customization of delivery systems for different applications.
Implementation Method 1
The delivery means is used to deliver the active ingredient to the patient. In particular, the active ingredient is delivered to the dermis of the patient's skin
Implementation Method 2
The pumping means is used to transport the active ingredient from the active ingredient reservoir to the delivery means
Data Source
AI summary
An active ingredient means for delivering an active ingredient, in particular a pharmaceutical active ingredient, includes an active ingredient means and an electronic means cooperating therewith. The active ingredient means includes an active ingredient reservoir fluidically connected to a delivery means. The electronic means, which is manufactured in particular as a separate component, includes a control means and a pumping means electrically connected thereto. The pumping means is used to convey the active ingredient from the active ingredient reservoir to the delivery means.