US 8,588,884 B2 · Microneedle electrode

Abstract

In certain variations, methods, systems and/or devices for enhancing conductivity of an electrical signal through a subject's skin using one or more microneedle electrodes are provided. A microneedle electrode may be applied to the subject's skin by placing the microneedle electrode in direct contact with the subject's skin. The microneedles of the microneedle electrode may be inserted into the skin such that the microneedles pierce stratum corneum of the skin up to or through dermis of the skin. An electrical signal passes or is conducted through or across the microneedle electrode and the subject's skin, where impedance of the microneedle electrode is minimal and greatly reduced compared to existing technologies.

Claims25

Dependent claims

A method of enhancing conductivity of an electrical signal through a subject's skin using a microneedle electrode comprising:

applying a microneedle electrode to the subject's skin by placing microneedles of the microneedle electrode in direct contact with the subject's skin;
inserting the microneedles of the microneedle electrode into the skin such that the microneedles pierce stratum corneum of the skin up to dermis of the skin;
and
allowing an electrical signal to pass through the microneedle electrode where impedance of the microneedle electrode is less than 10 ohms, wherein the microneedle electrode comprises a conductive metal substrate having microneedles extending therefrom which is formed by etching or cutting a microneedle pattern into a sheet of conductive metal and bending the microneedles to a desired angle.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Microneedle electrode

Life of this patent

Microneedle electrode

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims25