Philips researcher invents smart capsule in the Netherlands
Philips Electronics from the Netherlands is set to unveil an innovative medical technology at the annual meeting of the American Association of Pharmacists in Atlanta this weekend. The highlight of their presentation is a revolutionary "smart" capsule that promises to change the way drugs are delivered within the body. Patients simply swallow it like a regular pill, and once inside, it uses the unique pH levels of different parts of the digestive system to identify the exact location where medication is needed. Based on a pre-programmed schedule, the capsule then releases the precise dose of medicine directly at the affected area.
This groundbreaking device, named the "i-capsule" by Philips, builds upon earlier developments such as camera capsules used for diagnostic purposes. With technological advancements, researchers at Philips aimed to take the concept further—transforming the capsule into a therapeutic tool. One of the most significant achievements of the i-capsule is its ability to accurately target the site of disease, which is especially crucial for conditions like Crohn’s disease and colitis—both of which are increasingly common in Western countries. Traditional treatments, such as steroids, often cause unwanted side effects due to widespread distribution in the body. By delivering medicine directly to the problem area, the i-capsule offers a more targeted and safer approach.
The i-capsule relies on the varying pH levels throughout the digestive tract to determine when it has reached the intended location. This allows it to avoid unnecessary drug release and ensures that medication is only administered where it's needed most. In addition to precise positioning, another key challenge was how to control the dosage. To address this, the i-capsule is equipped with a microprocessor and a micropump. Before swallowing the capsule, a doctor can program the desired dose into the device. Once it reaches the correct site, the built-in pump releases the exact amount of medication stored inside.
What makes the i-capsule even more advanced is its ability to deliver medication to multiple locations sequentially. It also includes a thermometer, radio transceiver, and internal control system. These components allow real-time monitoring of temperature and pH levels as the capsule travels through the digestive system. Data is transmitted wirelessly to an external unit, enabling doctors to adjust the treatment process if necessary.
Philips has already developed a working prototype and tested it successfully in simulated gastrointestinal environments. The company believes the i-capsule is ready for mass production, opening up new possibilities for personalized and precise drug delivery. According to Dr. Karsten Kramer from PharmaConcepts Pharmaceuticals in Switzerland, the i-capsule represents a major advancement in drug development. He praised its navigation capabilities, electronic dosing control, and real-time monitoring functions, stating that it could significantly improve the targeting of medications and accelerate the discovery of new treatments.
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The application fields of Galvanized Steel are extremely extensive. In the construction industry, it is a commonly used material for building structures such as roofs, walls, doors and Windows. It not only provides solid support but also adds a touch of simple and modern beauty to the building. In the field of transportation, many components of vehicles such as cars, trains and ships are made of galvanized steel to enhance their durability and safety. In agriculture, galvanized steel is used to manufacture facilities such as greenhouses and fences, which can withstand harsh climatic conditions and ensure the smooth progress of agricultural production.
Galvanized Steel, with its excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, good economy and wide range of applications, has become a solid cornerstone in industry and construction. Whether in the high-rise buildings of modern cities or in the agricultural facilities of remote villages, galvanized steel can be seen everywhere. Choosing Galvanized Steel means choosing a reliable, efficient and sustainable future.
The core charm of Galvanized Steel lies in its unique galvanizing process. A zinc coating is formed on the surface of steel by hot-dip galvanizing or electro-galvanizing methods. This zinc coating is like a loyal guard, providing powerful anti-corrosion protection for the steel substrate. In the natural environment, zinc reacts with oxygen in the air to form a dense layer of zinc oxide film. This film can effectively prevent oxygen and moisture from further contacting the steel, thereby slowing down the rusting rate of the steel. Even in some harsh environmental conditions, such as damp basements and areas with frequent acid rain, galvanized steel can maintain the integrity and stability of its structure for a long time thanks to the protection of its zinc coating, significantly extending its service life.
Galvanized steel has excellent strength and toughness. Steel itself has a relatively high strength and can withstand considerable pressure and weight. However, galvanizing treatment does not weaken its original mechanical properties; instead, it enhances its wear resistance and impact resistance to a certain extent. This makes galvanized steel perform well in various structural applications. Whether it is the frame structure for building high-rise buildings, the support components of Bridges, or the racks for manufacturing industrial equipment, galvanized steel can provide reliable support to ensure the safety and stability of the structure.
Galvanized Steel is also economically viable. Compared with some materials that use special alloys or expensive coatings, the production cost of galvanized steel is relatively low. Moreover, due to its excellent anti-corrosion performance, it reduces the costs of later maintenance and replacement. In the long run, it can save a large amount of expenses for the project. In addition, the production process of galvanized steel is mature and highly efficient, allowing for large-scale production to meet the demands of various projects.
The application fields of Galvanized Steel are extremely extensive. In the construction industry, it is a commonly used material for building structures such as roofs, walls, doors and Windows. It not only provides solid support but also adds a touch of simple and modern beauty to the building. In the field of transportation, many components of vehicles such as cars, trains and ships are made of galvanized steel to enhance their durability and safety. In agriculture, galvanized steel is used to manufacture facilities such as greenhouses and fences, which can withstand harsh climatic conditions and ensure the smooth progress of agricultural production.
Galvanized Steel, with its excellent corrosion resistance, high strength, good economy and wide range of applications, has become a solid cornerstone in industry and construction. Whether in the high-rise buildings of modern cities or in the agricultural facilities of remote villages, galvanized steel can be seen everywhere. Choosing Galvanized Steel means choosing a reliable, efficient and sustainable future.
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