Hard Capsule Multiple-Lock Structure for Variable Fill Volumes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hard capsule manufacturing methods are limited to producing standardized sizes, leading to challenges in accommodating non-uniform fill material densities and requiring multiple tooling sets for various sizes, which increases costs and reduces socio-economic availability.
Innovation Solution
The development of hard capsules with multiple locking parts allows for the production of capsules with variable sizes, adjusting fill material volume and reducing the need for multiple tooling sets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size standardized hard capsules are manufactured using existing methods, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but the ability to accommodate non-uniform fill material densities and adjust fill volumes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule body is divided into multiple segments along its length, with each segment capable of being locked or unlocked independently. This segmentation allows the capsule to accommodate varying fill volumes and densities by selectively engaging different locking positions, thereby achieving adaptability without requiring completely different capsule designs for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule incorporates dynamic locking mechanisms that can be adjusted during the filling process. The locking parts can be engaged or disengaged based on the actual fill material density and volume achieved, allowing real-time adaptation to non-uniform fill characteristics rather than being fixed beforehand.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple tooling sets are used to manufacture different capsule sizes, then various capsule sizes can be produced, but manufacturing costs and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A single capsule body design with multiple locking parts can serve multiple size functions. By selectively engaging different locking positions along the capsule body, the same capsule can be adjusted to different effective volumes, eliminating the need for separate tooling sets for each capsule size and significantly reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule size is not fixed by its physical dimensions alone but by the selected locking configuration. Changing the engaged locking position changes the effective capsule size parameter, allowing one physical capsule to provide multiple size options without requiring multiple dedicated tooling sets for each size.
3Manufacturing precision
If fixed-size capsules are used, then tooling requirements are simplified, but the ability to adjust fill material volume during encapsulation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule body is divided into multiple segments along its length, with each segment capable of being locked or unlocked independently. This segmentation allows the capsule to accommodate varying fill volumes and densities by selectively engaging different locking positions, thereby achieving adaptability without requiring completely different capsule designs for each application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms during the filling process to determine when the desired fill volume or density is achieved. Based on this feedback, the locking mechanism is activated at the appropriate position, ensuring precise fill material volume control while automatically managing the complexity of the locking system.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is in regard to multiple specification Hard Capsule, which is formed via the joint locking between the multiple Locks of the Cap (upper part) and Body (lower part) to allow production of single hard capsules capable of functioning as variable sizes.