Enhanced Capsule Closure Device with Improved Ventilation and Dust Removal
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
An improved capsule closure device featuring enhanced ventilation and dust removal capabilities, ensuring efficient and contamination-free closure of two-piece capsules.
Background and Problem Solved
The original capsule closure device patent (EP 18 187 673.1) has limitations in terms of dust removal and capsule alignment, which can lead to contamination, jamming, and reduced efficiency. The new inventive concept addresses these issues by introducing innovative features that enhance the closure process.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The improved capsule closure device comprises a capsule upper portion receiving member with at least two ventilation holes and a dust-collecting channel, allowing for enhanced dust removal during capsule closure. Additionally, the device features a suction device connected to the ventilation holes, which is adjustable to optimize dust extraction. The capsule lower portion receiving member is equipped with a retractable guide pin for easier capsule alignment and reduced jamming risk. Furthermore, the device can be integrated into an automated capsule closure system, ensuring high-speed and efficient closure of two-piece capsules. The device also includes an integrated capsule inspection module, utilizing computer vision to detect defects or contamination in the capsules during the closure process.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new inventive concept introduces novel features such as the dust-collecting channel, adjustable suction device, retractable guide pin, and integrated capsule inspection module, which are not present in the original patent. These features provide a significant improvement in terms of dust removal, capsule alignment, and contamination detection, making the new inventive concept non-obvious and innovative.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include varying the number and configuration of ventilation holes, using different materials for the dust-collecting channel, or integrating the device with other capsule processing machines. Variations could also include adapting the device for use with different types of capsules or active ingredients.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced capsule closure device has significant commercial potential in the pharmaceutical, food supplement, and related industries, where efficient and contamination-free closure of two-piece capsules is crucial. The device's improved features can increase production efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality, making it an attractive solution for manufacturers and suppliers.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A61 | A61J3/074 |
| A | A61 | A61J3/072 |
| A | A61 | A61K9/4833 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Pharmaceutical capsule manufacturing and processing equipment, specifically focusing on capsule closure devices with precision mechanical handling and dust management systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer or technical specialist with expertise in pharmaceutical packaging equipment, familiar with capsule manufacturing standards, mechanical design principles, and contamination control techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable engineering improvements to the source patent's capsule closure device. The additional features like adjustable suction, dust-collecting channels, and integrated inspection modules are logical extensions of the original patent's ventilation and closure concepts. These modifications represent standard problem-solving approaches in precision manufacturing equipment design.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,503 |
|---|---|
| Title | Capsule closure device for closing two-piece capsules |
| Assignee(s) | Harro Hoefliger Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH |