Implantable Micropumps

Fraunhofer EMFT develops microfluidic actuators such as micropumps or microvalves for short- and long-term implantable applications. These include medication dosage for pain therapy, hormone dosage for the delivery of insulin/glucagon or the application of cytostatics in the fight against cancer. Furthermore, the implantable micropumps can deliver body fluids directly, as in glaucoma therapy, or be used as pneumatic or hydraulic actuators.

We offer customized piezoelectrically driven microfuid actuators. The pumps or valves made of silicon, stainless steel or titanium with a size of a few mm2 to cm2 can be mounted in hermetic housings and offer many advantages.  Firstly, there is the advantage of an operating point customized to the target application. Moreover, the actuators feature high dosing accuracy, low energy consumption and high durability. Additionally, there are only few materials needed such as silicon, stainless steel or titanium.

Innovative application: Implantable micropumps for intelligent diabetes management

By developing implantable micropumps, Fraunhofer EMFT is actively contributing to improving diabetes therapy. As part of the European research project, 'MUSIC for Diabetes' (Multi-Sensor-based Insulin pump Control), Fraunhofer EMFT is developing innovative solutions for intelligent diabetes management. The aim is to control insulin delivery more precisely and safely using micropumps based on the continuous evaluation of various physiological signals, such as blood sugar levels, activity levels, and stress levels.

The implant combines high-precision micropump technology with sensors that simultaneously monitor several metabolic parameters. This enables insulin delivery to be automatically regulated depending on the situation, which is a significant improvement on conventional systems that only measure blood sugar levels.

For patients, this means fewer interventions in everyday life, a significantly reduced risk of hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia, and an improved quality of life thanks to continuous, personalised insulin delivery.

Leverage our expert implantable micropumps at Fraunhofer EMFT for your specific application needs. We are eager to collaborate and innovate with you - contact us!