Oral Composition With Non-Linear Strands for Faster Active Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing oral compositions, particularly pouched products, face challenges in achieving high fill value and efficient release of active ingredients due to the use of conventional filler materials like flat sheets, rolled sheets, or powdered MCC, which result in higher weight and slower release rates.
Innovation Solution
The use of non-linear strands or fibres made from a crosslinked binder and filler material, such as alginate and iota-carrageenan, which provide higher fill value and faster release of actives by increasing void space in the pouch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional filler materials like flat sheets, rolled sheets, or powdered MCC are used, then the oral composition can be manufactured with standard processes, but the fill value is low and the weight is high
Solution Approach 1:
The filler material is formed as non-linear strands with curved, irregular shapes rather than flat sheets or powder. This curvature allows the strands to pack less efficiently, creating more void space and reducing overall weight while maintaining adequate fill value for the pouch.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-linear strand structure inherently creates a porous framework within the pouch. The irregular shapes and interlocking configurations of the strands generate void spaces that reduce material density and weight, while still providing sufficient bulk and fill value.
2Productivity
If conventional filler materials are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the release rate of active ingredients is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The filler material is segmented into individual non-linear strands rather than being continuous sheet or powder form. This segmentation creates discrete pathways and interfaces throughout the pouch structure that facilitate faster diffusion and release of active ingredients while remaining compatible with standard manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The porous structure created by non-linear strands provides increased surface area and interconnected void spaces that accelerate the release kinetics of active ingredients. The porous network allows faster diffusion pathways compared to dense flat sheets or compacted powder.
3Quantity of substance
If non-linear strands are used, then the fill value is high and weight is reduced, but the tensile strength and flexibility must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The non-linear strands are formed from composite materials combining filler particles with binder polymers in specific ratios. This composite structure ensures that the strands maintain adequate tensile strength and flexibility despite their non-linear configuration, preventing them from breaking during pouch formation or use while still achieving the desired fill value and weight reduction.
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 non-linear strands offer reduced overall weight, lower transportation and material costs, and faster release of actives, while maintaining tensile strength and flexibility, thus enhancing consumer convenience and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
a crosslinked binder
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4
AI summary
The invention provides an oral composition comprising a filler material in the form of non-linear strands, wherein the filler material comprises an active and/or a flavourant and a crosslinked binder. The invention also provides oral pouched products comprising the oral composition, the use of a filler material in an oral product, and methods of producing the filler material.