Pharmaceutical Spray Schlieren Analysis for Non-Destructive Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing pharmaceutical fluid spray devices are destructive, require human verification, and are not fully automatable, leading to device destruction and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing schlieren strioscopy for non-destructive, automated analysis of spray cone characteristics using standard components like cameras, lenses, and filters to capture and process images of the spray, allowing for real-time discrimination between compliant and non-compliant sprays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional testing methods are used to verify spray properties, then spray quality can be verified, but the devices are destroyed and cannot be delivered to customers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical imaging to create a visual copy of the spray cone generated by the device. Instead of destroying the device to test it, the system captures images of the spray pattern using a camera and analyzes these images to verify spray properties. This allows full verification without any physical damage to the tested device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical or destructive testing methods with an optical measurement system. Using schlieren imaging or other optical techniques, the system visually captures and analyzes spray characteristics without mechanical contact or destruction of the device under test.
2Reliability
If manual verification of tested devices is used, then human expertise can be applied, but the process is not fully automatable and reduces productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automated image analysis software that independently evaluates spray images against predefined acceptance criteria. The computer automatically determines whether spray properties meet specifications without requiring manual human review, enabling full automation while maintaining consistent and reliable verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides automated feedback by comparing captured spray images against target specifications and immediately indicating compliance or non-compliance. This closed-loop feedback system eliminates the need for manual verification while maintaining high reliability through consistent automated decision-making.
3Extent of automation
If complex analysis systems are used to achieve automated spray analysis, then automation is improved, but manufacturing and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs relatively simple, off-the-shelf components such as standard cameras, basic optical elements, and conventional image processing software. Rather than using complex specialized equipment, the system leverages accessible, inexpensive components that can be easily manufactured and assembled, reducing overall system complexity while achieving full automation.
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
Enables non-destructive, automated, and cost-effective spray analysis with high repeatability and discrimination, ensuring compliance with predefined specifications.
Implementation Method 1
the fundamental idea of this method is to remove the light that has not been deflected by the object, for example the fluid being studied. Indeed, only the rays deflected by it correspond to turbulence or high spatial frequencies in optics
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for analysing a spray generated by a device for atomisation of fluid pharmaceutical product, comprising the following steps: - providing an atomisation head (1) of a device for atomisation of fluid pharmaceutical product, said atomisation head (1) comprising an atomisation opening (2), - passing a test fluid through the atomisation head (1) in the direction of said atomisation opening (2), the test fluid being air at a temperature different from the ambient temperature, - visualising, by Schlieren photography, the flow of the test fluid leaving the atomisation opening (2), and - analysing said visualisation of the test fluid flow in order to determine whether the spray of test fluid coming from said atomisation head complies or does not comply with predetermined specifications.