Method and ophthalmic device with active agent release system

An active agent dispensing digital microarray device comprising:

• a semiconductor material substrate including one or more containment cells, at least one of the one or more containment cells containing an active agent enclosed by a biocompatible metal cap bonded under stress to a surface of the semiconductor material substrate;
• and
• a micro-processor energized by an energy source and in connection with an activation element, the activation element configured to conduct an electrical current to at least a portion of the biocompatible metal cap upon the receipt of an activation signal from the micro-processor, and
• wherein the electrical current and the stress are sufficient to cause the biocompatible metal cap to fold and thereby expose the active agent contained in at least one or the one or more containment cells.

A method of dispensing an active agent comprising:

• forming a substrate having one or more containment cells;
• depositing one or more active agents into at least one of the one or more containment cells;
• forming a hermetic seal over an opening of at least one of the one or more containment cells by bonding a biocompatible metal cap under stress to a surface of the substrate;
• and
• providing an activation element configured to conduct an electrical current from an energy source to at least a portion of the biocompatible metal cap causing the biocompatible metal cap to fold and thereby expose the active agent to a surrounding environment.