DPI Dose Ring Aluminum Foap Flap Airflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior dry powder inhalers (DPIs) face issues with insufficient airflow due to small powder-containing pocket volumes and single air flow paths, leading to inadequate powder dispensing, especially when filled with multiple doses.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an additional airflow entry point into each pocket cavity, combined with a venturi air flow pattern across a pre-cut aluminum foil flap, allows sufficient air flow to lift the flap and dispense the powder effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single opening design is used in prior art DPIs, then the device structure is simple, but the airflow is insufficient to lift the aluminum foil flap and dispense powder
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the single opening into multiple openings (first opening and second opening) in the aluminum foil flap, allowing separate airflow paths that work together to generate sufficient lifting force and venturi effect for reliable powder dispensing
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a spatial dimension to the airflow pattern by creating multiple openings at different locations on the aluminum foil flap, enabling a more complex three-dimensional airflow pattern that generates both lifting force and venturi effect simultaneously
2Quantity of substance
If multiple doses are filled in small volume pockets, then the device capacity is increased, but the airflow path becomes insufficient for proper powder dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the airflow path into multiple channels through the multiple openings in the aluminum foil flap, allowing each opening to contribute to the overall airflow that successfully dispenses powder from compact multi-dose pockets
3Reliability
If sealing means are configured to preserve product, then the product stability is improved, but the airflow is impeded at the time of use
Solution Approach 1:
The aluminum foil flap transitions from a static sealed state to a dynamic open state during use, with multiple openings that dynamically regulate airflow to provide both sealing during storage and sufficient airflow during dispensing
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses pneumatic pressure differential generated by user inhalation to overcome the sealing force of the aluminum foil flap, with multiple openings that optimize the pressure differential to enable reliable flap lifting and powder dispensing
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design ensures reliable and efficient administration of a metered dose of medicament by providing sufficient airflow to lift the aluminum foil flap, overcoming the limitations of prior art DPIs with single opening designs and insufficient pressure differentials.
Implementation Method 1
the venturi air flow pattern velocity across the top of the pre-cut aluminum foil flap, combined with the airflow entry point in or adjacent each pocket, provides sufficient air flow volume to allow the aluminum foil flap to lift
Implementation Method 2
The powder is only lifted due to a pressure differential of the air above the aluminum foil (and the single opening) being greater than the pressure differential inside the headspace of the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A dose ring for a dry powder inhaler (DPI) device includes an aluminum foil member covering particulate medication cavities and through holes. The device includes hinged flaps formed by a cut so that one radial side is uncut and forms a hinge. Each flap can cover both a cavity for particulate medication and a through hole located between that cavity and the circular inside edge of the dose ring.