Inhaler Guide Airflow Path Capsule Powder Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dry powder inhalers require the crushing or perforation of inhalation capsules to deliver dry powder, which is inefficient and may damage the powder, whereas existing solutions do not effectively address the need for a simple and efficient method to transfer dry powder to the body without such processes.
Innovation Solution
The inhaler design includes a housing with air inlets and a guide that forms an airflow path, allowing for the transfer of dry powder from a dedicated cartridge or direct filling without crushing or perforating the capsule, utilizing upward airflow caused by inhalation to facilitate powder transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If capsule crushing or perforation is used to deliver dry powder, then powder delivery is achieved, but powder integrity is damaged and process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device separates the capsule containment function from the powder delivery mechanism. The capsule remains intact within the holder while a separate airflow path delivers powder through the mouthpiece, eliminating the need for crushing or perforation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses pneumatic pressure from the user's inhalation to transfer powder from the capsule through the holder to the mouthpiece. This airflow-based delivery mechanism replaces mechanical crushing or perforation methods, preserving powder integrity while achieving effective delivery.
2Productivity
If capsule crushing or perforation is used to deliver dry powder, then powder delivery is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule holder and airflow path are merged into a single integrated structure where the holder serves both as capsule containment and as part of the powder delivery channel. This eliminates the need for separate crushing mechanisms or perforation components.
Solution Approach 2:
The user's own inhalation provides the driving force for powder delivery, eliminating the need for external power sources, motors, or complex mechanical actuation systems. The device uses the user's breath to create the necessary airflow for powder transfer.
3Reliability
If simple attachment or filling is used without crushing or perforation, then powder integrity is maintained, but powder transfer efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The airflow path is designed with specific local characteristics including a narrowed portion that increases airflow velocity and creates a vortex effect. This localized flow optimization ensures efficient powder pickup and transfer while maintaining gentle handling that preserves powder integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The airflow path includes curved portions and a vortex-inducing narrowed section that creates rotational flow. This curved flow pattern enhances powder suspension and transport efficiency without requiring mechanical disruption of the capsule or powder.
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 enables efficient and simple transfer of dry powder to the body through inhalation pressure, ensuring effective delivery without the need for capsule crushing or perforation, thereby improving user experience and powder integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a guide configured to form a path through which air introduced through the air inlets moves in an interior of the housing
Implementation Method 2
when an inhaling force is applied to the mouthpiece, the guide is configured to guide a functional material accommodated in the interior of the housing to be transferred to the mouthpiece
Implementation Method 3
Technology for manufacturing dry powder and technology for designing a device that generates a vortex for delivering dry powder may be required
Data Source
AI summary
An inhaler includes a housing including a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface, and a side surface configured to connect the first surface to the second surface, wherein a plurality of air inlets is formed in the housing to penetrate the side surface in a vertical direction, a mouthpiece protruding from the first surface, and a guide configured to form a path through which air introduced through the air inlets moves in an interior of the housing, wherein, when an inhaling force is applied to the mouthpiece, the guide is configured to guide a functional material accommodated in the interior of the housing to be transferred to the mouthpiece.