Computer Simulations Speed Up Development of Drug-Delivery Systems

Originally Published MPMNJanuary/February 2003

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Computer Simulations Speed Up Development of Drug-Delivery Systems

Nonlinear computer simulations can reduce production costs and time to market

Advanced material properties research has been successfully coupled with a nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) solver to create computer simulations of drug-delivery system components. According to the product's developer, Innova Engineering Inc. (Irvine, CA), the results of these studies can be used for regulatory filings and to support design and development activities. 

Capabilities of the product involve empirically developing material properties data from lab instrumentation and directly importing the nonlinear data into the solver for reliable and accurate analysis. "For example, the results of stress and strain curves of an injection-molded dogbone measured in the 'as-molded' condition would be used for extremely accurate FEA," says John Cogger, Innova's president. "Advanced adaptive meshing functionality can be deployed when displacing soft, molded materials."

The computer simulations evaluate the effects of manufacturing processes on device performance. Other applications include long-term time-dependent product shelf life studies, pre-and post-sterilization analyses, and bracketing studies at extreme tolerance ranges involving coupled components.

According to the company, of particular interest is the optimization of elastomeric components as well as conventional thermoplastics requiring specialized analysis techniques for accurate design and modeling.

SusanWallace   

Innova Engineering Inc., 5 Park Plz., Ste. 150 Irvine, CA 92614; phone: +1949 975 9965; fax +1 949 975 9969; e-mail: [email protected]

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