COSMIC – Control and charge neutralization Of an electrospray-based Soft Mist Inhaler

Inhalation therapy is essential for the management of respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, current inhalation systems face limitations, including polydisperse aerosols that reduce drug delivery efficiency and complex treatment regimens that affect patient adherence. To improve drug targeting and efficacy, Gilbert Innovation B.V. is developing a next-generation soft-mist inhaler based on electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA), which produces uniform micrometer sized droplets. Effective drug delivery requires high flow rates and precise aerosol discharge to ensure deep lung deposition while minimizing losses to the device and oropharynx. To achieve this, the device employs a multi-nozzle system for increased flow and corona discharge needles for charge neutralization. However, ensuring uniform neutralization across multiple nozzles and maintaining stable electrospray operation remain key challenges. COSMIC aims to increase system robustness by optimizing neutralization efficiency, refining material selection, and controlling electrospray stability under varying conditions. The electrospray control system will incorporate advanced strategies leveraging computer vision, machine learning and big data analytics. These innovations will increase efficiency, accessibility and patient comfort in inhalation therapy.