Nasal Applicator With Elastic Pressing Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an easy-to-use system that facilitates the controlled and reliable release of active agents from mucoadhesive films applied to the nasal or oral mucosa, particularly in self-medication scenarios where errors in application can occur.
Innovation Solution
The system comprises an applicator with an insertable part and an exterior part, designed for insertion into the nasal or oral cavity, along with a disposable part featuring a mucoadhesive surface. The applicator includes a retaining means for the disposable part and a means for pressing the mucoadhesive surface against the mucosa, ensuring consistent contact pressure and adhesion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mucoadhesive film is applied manually to the oral mucosa, then the patient can self-medicate with flexibility and convenience, but the application may contain errors that affect the controlled and reliable release of the drug
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an applicator as an intermediary device between the patient and the mucoadhesive film. The applicator includes a retainer that holds the film in proper position and a pressurizing element that applies controlled pressure to ensure consistent contact with the oral mucosa. This intermediary device eliminates manual application errors while maintaining ease of use, allowing patients to self-medicate reliably without direct handling of the film.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the mucoadhesive film is pressed against the mucosa with varying contact pressure, then the film can adhere to different locations on the mucosa, but the rate of drug release becomes uncontrolled and unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by incorporating a pressurizing element with adjustable or predetermined force characteristics. This element standardizes the contact pressure parameter applied to the mucoadhesive film, ensuring that regardless of the application location on the oral mucosa, the film receives consistent pressure. This control over the pressure parameter ensures reliable and controlled drug release rates while maintaining adaptability to different mucosal sites.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mucoadhesive film placement location varies, then the film can be applied to different areas of the oral cavity, but the wetting of the film by saliva and subsequent drug release becomes inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by using the applicator to pre-position the mucoadhesive film correctly on the oral mucosa before the patient begins normal oral activities. The retainer component ensures the film is placed at the optimal location with proper orientation, and the pressurizing element ensures adequate initial contact. This preliminary correct positioning ensures that subsequent saliva wetting and drug release proceed consistently regardless of which specific mucosal area is targeted.
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 system allows for precise placement and controlled release of active agents on the mucosa, reducing application errors and enhancing therapeutic efficacy while improving user convenience and hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
The means for pressing the mucoadhesive surface against the nasal or oral mucosa is or comprises an elastic member, in particular a spring, configured to bias the disposable part, when received by the retaining means, or a part thereof towards the exterior part.
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~3
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
The present invention relates to an applicator (100) for arranging a mucoadhesive surface, in particular a mucoadhesive film (204) loaded with an active agent such as a drug, on the nasal or oral mucosa, in particular the buccal mucosa, of a patient as well as to a disposable part (200) for use with an applicator for arranging a mucoadhesive surface on the nasal or oral mucosa of a patient and to a kit (10) comprising a disposable part having a mucoadhesive surface and an applicator for arranging said mucoadhesive surface on the nasal or oral mucosa of a patient.