Metered-Dose Inhaler Dual Reservoir Segmentation
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) face limitations in delivering desired particle size distributions and fine particle doses, especially when using certain solvents or co-administering incompatible active ingredients, due to design restrictions that affect formulation stability and compatibility.
Innovation Solution
A metered-dose inhaler system with at least two formulation reservoirs, each metered by a distinct valve system, allowing simultaneous delivery of formulations through a single orifice or separate orifices, enabling modulation of particle size distribution and co-administration of previously incompatible active ingredients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional MDI design with a single formulation reservoir is used, then the device structure is simple, but the ability to deliver desired particle size distribution and fine particle dose is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single formulation reservoir is divided into multiple separate reservoirs (first reservoir, second reservoir, etc.), each containing different formulations. Each reservoir has its own metering valve system, allowing independent metering and delivery of each formulation. This segmentation enables precise control over particle size distribution and fine particle dose for each formulation component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple formulations are co-formulated in a single container, then the device structure is simple, but physical or chemical incompatibility between active ingredients occurs
Solution Approach 1:
Incompatible formulations are segregated into separate reservoirs, preventing direct contact and potential incompatibility reactions. Each formulation maintains its own stable composition in its dedicated reservoir, while still allowing co-administration through simultaneous or sequential delivery from multiple reservoirs.
Solution Approach 2:
The separate reservoirs and valve systems act as intermediaries that allow incompatible formulations to be delivered together without mixing until the point of administration. The system enables co-administration while maintaining formulation stability by preventing premature contact between incompatible substances.
3Productivity
If a single metering valve system is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to meter and deliver multiple formulations independently is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The single metering valve system is segmented into multiple independent metering valves, with each valve dedicated to a specific reservoir and formulation. This allows each formulation to be metered independently with precise control over dose and delivery timing, enabling simultaneous or sequential delivery of multiple formulations.
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 enhances user flexibility by allowing consistent delivery of formulations with improved particle size distribution and stability, enabling the simultaneous administration of previously incompatible active ingredients and excipients.
Implementation Method 1
The dose of the medicament formulation is atomized at a nozzle orifice which may be disposed within the actuator. The dose is delivered from the MDI as an inhalable cloud or plume.
Data Source
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AI summary
A metered-dose inhaler includes at least one vessel (50) and an actuator for receiving the at least one vessel. The at least one vessel (50) includes a first reservoir (31) containing a first formulation and a second reservoir (32) containing a second formulation. The metered-dose inhaler is actuable when the at least one vessel (50) is received by the actuator. The metered-dose inhaler is configured to simultaneously deliver a first metered dose of the first formulation and a second metered dose of the second formulation upon actuation.