title: A Smart Capsule With GI-Tract-Location-Specific Payload Release.
abstract: In this paper, we present a smart capsule for location-specific drug release in the gastrointestinal tract. Once activated through a magnetic proximity fuse, the capsule opens up and releases its powdered payload in a location specified by an implanted miniature magnetic marker or an externally worn larger magnet. The capsule (9 mm × 26 mm) comprises of two compartments: one contains a charged capacitor and a reed switch, while the second one houses the drug reservoir capped by a taut nylon thread intertwined with a nichrome wire. The nichrome wire is connected to the capacitor through the reed switch. The capacitor is charged to 2.7 V before ingestion and once within the proximity of the permanent magnet; the reed switch closes, discharging the capacitor through the nichrome wire, melting the nylon thread, detaching the cap, and emptying the drug reservoir.
authors.forename: Wuyang
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Yu
authors.forename: Rahim
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Rahimi
authors.forename: Manuel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ochoa
authors.forename: Rodolfo
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Pinal
authors.forename: Babak
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ziaie
mesh_terms: D053704:Capsule Endoscopy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D016503:Drug Delivery Systems / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004867:Equipment Design; D008280:Magnetics / Q000295:instrumentation*; D013696:Temperature