Microneedle array applicator and retainer
Assignee3M Innovative Properties Company
InventorsTed K. Ringsred, Franklyn L. Frederickson
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An applicator that has an elastic band to snap a microneedle array against skin with a predetermined force and velocity. The microneedle array, which may be pre-loaded with drug(s), is attached to the elastic band such that the band can be secured in place (e.g., wrapped around a person's arm), pulled away from the arm, and released from a suitable distance so that the microneedle array snaps back against the arm with sufficient force to cause an intended amount of penetration of microneedles. Also, a microneedle application device has an elastic band, a microneedle device, and a structure attaching the band to the microneedle device.
Claims6
A microneedle application device comprising:
- an elastic band configured so as to encircle an appendage having a skin surface, the elastic band stretchable to a stretched position;
- a microneedle device, wherein the microneedle device is attached to the elastic band;
- a handle releasably attached to the elastic band;
- and
- a release system,
- wherein when the band is in the stretched position, the release system releases the band from the handle at a predetermined level of stored energy such that the stretched band accelerates the microneedle device into the skin surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.