Microneedle insertion force reduction using vibratory actuation

The effect of vibratory actuation on microneedle insertion force was investigated. Hollow micro hypodermic injection needles were fabricated by a two-wafer polysilicon micromolding process. A vibratory actuator operating in the kHz range was coupled with the hypodermic microneedles. The force to insert microneedles into excized animal tissue was measured with a load cell. Results showed a greater than 70% reduction in microneedle insertion force by using vibratory actuation. The application of vibratory actuation provides a promising method to precisely control the microneedle insertion forces to overcome microneedle structural material limitations, minimize insertion pain, and enhance the efficiency of drug delivery.