Modular Inhaler with Removable Wick Cartridge for Precise Dosage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medication delivery systems face challenges in precise dosage control, user-friendliness, contamination management, interchangeability, and non-invasive administration, particularly in treating opioid dependency and overdose scenarios, where rapid and adaptable solutions are needed.
Innovation Solution
A modular device with a removable cartridge and wick assembly, incorporating an atomizer and electronic controls for precise medication delivery, allowing for adjustable dosing and easy integration with various administration methods, including inhalation and veterinary use, with features like a mask attachment for customizable fit and sensors for real-time monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a modular device with removable cartridge is used, then ease of operation and contamination management are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into modular components including a removable cartridge, mouthpiece, wick assembly, and atomizer. This segmentation allows individual parts to be easily replaced, cleaned, or sterilized without affecting the entire device, thereby improving ease of operation and contamination management while the modular design itself manages complexity through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The base unit is designed with universal interfaces that can accommodate different cartridge types and mouthpiece configurations. This multi-functionality allows a single base unit to serve multiple purposes and work with various medication formulations, improving operational flexibility without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If an atomizer with wick assembly is used, then manufacturing precision and dosage control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The atomizer replaces traditional mechanical dosing mechanisms with a controlled evaporation system using a heated wick assembly. This substitution enables more precise dosage control through thermal management and surface area control of the wick, while the electronic control system manages the complexity of the new mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The atomizer system controls medication delivery by changing parameters such as heating temperature, wick surface area, and airflow rate. These parameter changes enable precise dosage control without requiring complex mechanical dosing mechanisms, as the system can adjust the evaporation rate and aerosol generation through controlled physical parameters.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a removable cartridge design is used, then adaptability and interchangeability are improved, but reliability may worsen due to potential connection issues
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge and base unit interfaces are designed with pre-aligned connection features and standardized geometries that ensure proper engagement before use. This preliminary design of the connection interface reduces the risk of improper assembly or connection issues, maintaining reliability while enabling interchangeability.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable cartridge design includes self-aligning and self-sealing connection features that automatically ensure proper engagement when the cartridge is inserted. This self-service mechanism reduces the need for precise manual alignment and minimizes connection errors, maintaining system reliability while preserving the benefits of interchangeability.
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
The system provides precise, user-friendly, and adaptable medication delivery, reducing contamination risks and enhancing portability, enabling effective treatment of opioid dependency and overdose while addressing the limitations of existing systems.
Implementation Method 1
activating an atomizer to vaporize the liquid formulation
Implementation Method 2
a wick made from an absorbent material, wherein the wick transports fluid to the atomizer
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for delivering formulations to users using modular device having atomizer and wick assembly are disclosed. A formulation delivery system that includes a mouthpiece with a first attaching structure at one end and a removable cartridge with a second attaching structure that connects to the mouthpiece. The removable cartridge houses an atomizer at its first end and features a wick assembly with a removable cap and a wick made from an absorbent material. The wick, which transports fluid to the atomizer, is connected at one end to the removable cap and at the other end abuts the atomizer. The system also includes a channel within the removable cartridge; this channel extends to the cartridge's first end and houses the wick, while the removable cap is located outside the channel. Additionally, the system incorporates electronics that maintain a removable electrical connection with the cartridge.