Fig. 1 Images of the HMN applicator (a and b) and a scanning electron microscopy image of a HMN (c, bar represents 50 μm). The microneedle insertion speed (1 to 3 m/s) is controlled by an electromagnet (1). Angled injections are possible via a guided rail (2). The injection depth of the microneedle into the skin is accurately controlled by a micrometer actuator (10) and a guide plate (9). Fluid flow starts with a 100 μL Hamilton gas-tight Luer-Lock syringe (3) which is driven by a controllable syringe pump (5) that is connected to a 100 μm inner diameter capillary (6) via a Luer-Lock-CapTite adapter (4). This capillary feeds the fluid flow via a specially designed connection piece (7) into a HMN (8) that enables the intradermal injections. Because the syringe pump is programmable, injection rates and -volumes can be accurately controlled.
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