| Powder Conveying & Dispensing Method / Apparatus Using Traveling Wave Transport |
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Overview The present invention is a method and apparatus for traveling wave transport of charged particles, and more particularly to methods and apparatus for the loading, conveying and dispensing of particles for use in the preparation of pharmaceutical dosages as well as the monitoring and control thereof. This invention is related, in operation to the Dry Powder Printing Process, called XeroJet, and is based on the process of transporting dry powders using Electrostatic Traveling Waves and further includes means for confining the powder flow to narrow channels. The dry powder in the XeroJet printing process is comprised of toner particles containing pigments or dyes as colorants; though the only essential requirement of the medium in transport, however, is that it be comprised of dry powder particles possessing an electrostatic charge. Accordingly, other powder-based applications may utilize a similar powder dispensing process, though significant benefits can ensue from application specific designs. One application illustrated in the patent is the design of a powder dispensing method and apparatus for use in the preparation of pharmaceuticals.
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