Microchip devices with improved reservoir opening

US6875208B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Massachusetts Institute of Technology · US

Inventors

• John T. Santini, Jr. · North Chelmsford, US
• Michael J. Cima · Winchester, US
• Norman F. Sheppard, Jr. · New Ipswich, US
• Nolan T. Flynn · Brookline, US
• Scott A. Uhland · San Jose, US
• Zouhair Sbiaa · Malden, US
• John M. Maloney · Medina, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 31, 2002
• Grant date: Apr 5, 2005
• Expiry date: Nov 7, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T137/8242
• WIPO field: Pharmaceuticals
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Microchip devices and methods of manufacture thereof are provided to increase the uniformity and reliability of active exposure and release of microchip reservoir contents. In one embodiment, the microchip device for the controlled release or exposure of molecules or secondary devices comprises: (1) a substrate having a plurality of reservoirs; (2) reservoir contents comprising molecules, a secondary device, or both, located in the reservoirs; (3) reservoir caps positioned on the reservoirs over the reservoir contents; (4) electrical activation means for disintegrating the reservoir cap to initiate exposure or release of the reservoir contents in selected reservoirs; and (5) a current distribution means, a stress induction means, or both, operably engaged with or integrated into the reservoir cap, to enhance reservoir cap disintegration.