Nebuliser Container with Direct Aeration Channel

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing nebulizer containers require complex constructions with deflatable inner bags for pressure compensation, which are costly and prone to evaporation issues.

Innovation Solution

A container design with a rigid outer case and direct aeration device that allows for pressure compensation between the fluid space and surroundings, minimizing evaporation through a channel that forms a barrier and opens only during fluid removal or atomization.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a deflatable inner bag is used for pressure compensation, then pressure compensation between the fluid space and surroundings is achieved, but the device complexity and production cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressure compensationVSAvoidcontainer structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the aeration function from the complex inner bag system and implements it through a simple channel structure in the rigid container wall. The channel (29) provides direct pressure compensation between the fluid space and surroundings without requiring a deflatable inner bag, thereby simplifying the container structure while maintaining pressure compensation functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces the expensive and complex deflatable inner bag with a simple, inexpensive rigid container structure featuring an integrated channel. This simplified structure achieves the same pressure compensation function at lower production cost and with greater structural stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Speed

If the aeration device is permanently open for pressure compensation, then pressure equalization is rapid, but fluid evaporation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressure compensation speedVSAvoidfluid evaporation
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The invention makes the aeration channel dynamic by equipping it with a valve mechanism that can open or close based on operational requirements. During fluid removal or atomization, the valve opens to allow rapid pressure compensation. During storage or non-use, the valve closes to prevent fluid evaporation, thus achieving both rapid pressure equalization when needed and evaporation prevention when not needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The aeration channel operates periodically - open during fluid delivery/atomization cycles for pressure compensation, and closed during storage periods to prevent evaporation. This periodic opening and closing of the channel aligns with the operational cycles of the nebulizer, optimizing both pressure compensation speed and evaporation control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Reliability

If a deflatable inner bag is used, then pressure compensation is possible, but manufacturing cost and production complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressure compensation capabilityVSAvoidcontainer production
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the pressure compensation function from the complex inner bag assembly and implements it through a simple channel structure integrated into the rigid container wall. This eliminates the need for manufacturing and assembling inner bags, seals, and complex mechanical components, thereby significantly simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing production costs while maintaining pressure compensation capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges the pressure compensation channel directly into the rigid container structure, integrating multiple functions (fluid containment, pressure compensation, and structural support) into a single unified component. This integration eliminates the need for separate inner bags and associated assembly steps, making the container easier to manufacture and more cost-effective to produce.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 simplifies construction, reduces production costs, and enhances pressure compensation efficiency while minimizing fluid evaporation, ensuring reliable operation and extended storage life.

Implementation Method 1

aeration device (28) for the direct aeration of the fluid space (4) in the container (3)... pressure compensation between the fluid space and surroundings

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure compensation: Pressure Gradient

Implementation Method 2

the aeration device preferably comprises a channel that on the one hand permits a rapid pressure compensation and on the other hand forms an effective barrier to minimise evaporation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEvaporation: Evaporation

Data Source

PatentEP1893343B1Nebuliser and container
Publication Date: 2014.10.15 BOEHRINGER INGELHEIM INT GMBH
  • EP1893343B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1893343B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP1893343B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A nebuliser and a container in each case with an aeration device are proposed, the aeration device being designed for the direct aeration of a liquid space in the container. The container comprises a rigid, gas-tight outer case and a closure, which is opened by connecting or inserting a delivery element. A long storage life and long service life with low loss of fluid or solvent are thereby provided in the form of a simple and inexpensive construction.