Design of an inhaler-specific robotic system for laboratory use in early development

The complexity of current inhalation devices requires thorough testing of all aspects of device reliability. In reproducibility, automation can provide strictly predefined handling at high throughput, which may be beneficial in obtaining the low variability required for the prediction of reliability. This article addresses the challenges of automated testing in early development. Testing is presented as an additional voluntary effort during development of an innovative multi-dose inhaler that delivers liquid droplets from a non-pressurized reservoir. Many aspects of the robotic system will be applicable to other aerosol delivery devices.