Nested Dual Vial Packaging for Hermetic Two-Component Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing packaging solutions, such as ampoules, are inadequate for storing two separate substances that need to be mixed prior to use, as they cannot maintain separation effectively and may expose the contents to air or contaminants.
Innovation Solution
A dual vial system comprising a first vial nested within a second vial, sealed by a break zone that separates upon application of a threshold force, allowing for hermetic storage and mixing of components just before use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single ampoule is used to store one substance, then hermetic sealing is achieved, but separate storage of two substances that need mixing is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested vial structure where a first vial is placed inside a second vial. The first vial contains the first substance and the second vial contains the second substance. This nesting arrangement allows both substances to be stored separately in a single packaging unit while maintaining hermetic sealing of each substance, thereby achieving versatile storage capability without significantly increasing overall structural complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate ampoules are used to store two substances, then separate storage is achieved, but hermetic sealing cannot be maintained for both simultaneously in a unified container
Solution Approach 1:
The nested vial configuration allows each vial to maintain its own hermetic seal independently. The first vial is sealed within the second vial, ensuring that both substances remain hermetically sealed until the moment of use. This approach preserves the reliability of hermetic sealing for both substances while enabling unified storage in a single dual vial container.
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging is segmented into two distinct hermetic compartments (first vial and second vial), each capable of maintaining its own seal. This segmentation allows each substance to be stored in its own sealed environment while both are contained within a single unified packaging structure, thus maintaining hermetic sealing reliability for both substances simultaneously.
3Ease of operation
If a break zone is introduced to enable separation of vials, then mixing capability is improved, but structural strength is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The break zone is implemented as a localized weak point in the wall of the first vial, while the rest of the vial structure maintains its full strength. This local modification allows the vial to be easily separated from the second vial when needed for mixing, while the overall structural integrity of the vials remains sufficient to maintain hermetic sealing during storage and handling. The weak point is strategically positioned to enable controlled separation without compromising the strength of the remaining structure.
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 dual vial system ensures hermetic storage and efficient mixing of components, reducing exposure to contaminants and enabling convenient dispensing of mixed substances.
Implementation Method 1
The break zone is configured to separate the first vial from the second vial at the break zone in response to a force above a selected threshold being applied to the first vial.
Implementation Method 2
Closing the second vial may comprise heat sealing an opening of the second vial to provide a hermetic ampoule containing the second component and at least part of the first vial.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of packaging a two component composition into a dual vial (100), wherein the dual vial (100) comprises a single continuous piece of material arranged to provide both a first vial (110) and a second vial (120), the method comprising providing a second component of the composition into a volume, of the second vial (120), surrounding the first vial (110), providing a first component of the composition into a first vial (110), wherein the first vial (110) is nested within a second vial (120), and closing the first vial (110) and the second vial (120).