Pill Coater

Project Overview

Desktop Pill Coater (Startup Prototype – Carapex)

Developed an initial prototype of a desktop-scale pill coating system as part of Carapex, built in under one month for the Innovate or Build (IOB) competition, where the team was among the top 6 finalists (final results pending).

The current prototype consists of a rotating bowl with internal baffles to promote uniform mixing, driven by a stepper motor for controlled agitation. The system is powered entirely via USB-C, enabling a compact and accessible form factor suitable for rapid prototyping and demonstration environments.

All mechanical components were designed in CAD and iterated through rapid prototyping using 3D printing, allowing fast design-validation cycles and tight integration between mechanical and electrical subsystems.

This early design validates the core mechanical concept and mixing dynamics required for consistent coating. Ongoing development is focused on evolving the system into a more advanced, modular platform, including interchangeable components, integrated spray delivery, airflow-assisted drying, a secondary axis for improved coating uniformity, and an automated dumping mechanism.

Key Highlights
• Rapid prototype development (concept → functional system in < 1 month)
• Top 6 finalist at Innovate or Build (IOB) competition
• End-to-end mechanical design (CAD + 3D printed prototyping)
• Rotating bowl with baffle-assisted mixing for uniform coating
• Stepper motor control for adjustable rotation dynamics
• Fully USB-C powered system for portability and simplicity
• Roadmap includes modular architecture, dual-axis motion, and automated material handling

Status: Prototype complete — advancing toward a fully integrated, modular coating system