Reverse Micelle Microcell Delivery With Electric-Field Release Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for small, simple, inexpensive, and versatile delivery systems that can release benefit agents on demand and allow for varying amounts or multiple agents to be delivered at different times, addressing the limitations of existing devices like the Nicoderm-CQ patch and other large, visible transdermal systems.
Innovation Solution
A benefit agent delivery system comprising a first electrode layer, a microcell layer with microcells containing reverse micelles in a hydrophobic liquid, and a porous second electrode layer, where applying voltages of opposite polarities controls the migration of reverse micelles to adjust the release rate of benefit agents through the porous second electrode layer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional transdermal delivery systems like Nicoderm-CQ patch are used, then extended release of benefit agents is achieved, but the device becomes large and visible through clothing
Solution Approach 1:
The delivery system is divided into multiple microcapsules (1-100 μm diameter) containing benefit agents, which are embedded in a polymer matrix. This segmentation allows the system to achieve extended release through controlled diffusion while maintaining a thin, invisible profile on the skin surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible polymer matrix (e.g., ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer) that forms a thin film structure. This thin film encapsulates the microcapsules and provides a compliant, invisible interface with the skin, eliminating the need for large rigid patches while maintaining extended release functionality.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional transdermal patches are used, then extended release is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the benefit agent reservoir, release control mechanism, and skin interface into a single integrated polymer matrix structure. The microcapsules embedded in the matrix serve both as storage vessels and controlled release units, eliminating the need for separate pumping mechanisms or complex multi-layer structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes passive diffusion through the polymer matrix and microcapsule walls for controlled release, eliminating the need for active pumping mechanisms, batteries, or electronic controls. The benefit agents naturally diffuse through the matrix at controlled rates based on concentration gradients and material properties.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional delivery systems are used, then benefit agent delivery is achieved, but the ability to deliver varying amounts or multiple agents on demand is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates different regions within the polymer matrix with varying microcapsule concentrations, sizes, or wall permeabilities to control local release rates. This allows different zones of the patch to deliver different amounts or types of benefit agents simultaneously, enabling tailored delivery profiles for different skin areas or conditions.
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 on-demand release of benefit agents, varying amounts, and simultaneous delivery of multiple agents, with controlled release rates through the application of electric fields, suitable for transdermal delivery of pharmaceuticals and cosmetic agents, and other applications.
Implementation Method 1
Application of a first voltage on a microcell via the first electrode layer and the porous second electrode layer having polarity, which causes the migration of the reverse micelles in the microcell towards the porous second electrode, increases the rate of release of the benefit agent through the porous second electrode layer
Implementation Method 2
Application of a second voltage across a microcell via the first electrode layer and the porous second electrode layer, the second voltage having polarity opposite to the polarity of the first voltage, causes the migration of the reverse micelles in the microcell away from the porous second electrode layer and reduces the rate of release of the benefit agent
Implementation Method 3
the rate of release of the benefit agent through the porous second electrode layer
Data Source
AI summary
A benefit agent delivery system can deliver benefit agents on demand. The benefit agent delivery system comprises a first electrode layer, a microcell layer comprising a plurality of microcells, and a porous second electrode layer. Each microcell of the plurality of microcells are filled with a liquid mixture comprising reverse micelles in a hydrophobic liquid that are formed from a polar liquid, an ionic surfactant, and a benefit agent. Application of an electric field on the microcell layer affects the rate of release of the benefit agent through the porous second electrode layer.