RPI ID: 2023-040-301

Innovation Summary:
This invention introduces a novel class of hollow-lid tubes designed for biological, chemical, and diagnostic applications. These microfabricated containers feature a sealed, hollow interior with a removable or dissolvable lid, enabling precise control over the encapsulation and timed release of contents. The tubes can be engineered from biocompatible materials and functionalized for targeted delivery, molecular sensing, or reaction initiation. Their geometry and surface properties are tunable, making them suitable for lab-on-a-chip systems, biosensors, and controlled reagent deployment in microenvironments.

Challenges / Opportunities:
Current microcontainer technologies often lack precise control over release timing, biocompatibility, or scalability for integration into diagnostic platforms. This invention addresses these limitations by offering a versatile, modular platform that can be adapted for a wide range of biomedical and analytical applications. It opens opportunities in point-of-care diagnostics, single-cell analysis, and programmable drug delivery, where spatial and temporal control of reagents is critical.

Key Benefits / Advantages:
✔ Tunable release via dissolvable or removable lids
✔ Biocompatible and scalable microfabrication
✔ Supports encapsulation of diverse reagents or biomolecules
✔ Integrates with microfluidic and lab-on-chip systems
✔ Enables precise spatial and temporal control of delivery

Applications:
• Point-of-care diagnostics
• Controlled drug or reagent delivery
• Single-cell and microscale assays
• Biosensing and molecular detection
• Microreactor and lab-on-a-chip platforms

Keywords:
#microcontainers #controlledrelease #labonchip #biosensors #biocompatiblematerials #diagnosticdevices

Intellectual Property:
PCT Application Filed PCT/US2024/013086 (Publication No.: WO2024159085A2)