— The R&D Paradigm
Why continuous tableting development feels complex
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During pharmaceutical R&D, continuous tableting lines require multiple operations to run in parallel, from material feeding and blending to sampling, RTD studies and data alignment. Priorities are different compared to production: rapid experimentation, efficient DoE execution and robust process insight.
Without the right tools, these activities rely heavily on manual coordination, specialist operators and time-consuming workflows that slow down every iteration.
RTD studies are resource-intensive
Spiking, sample collection and time-alignment require precise coordination, and even small misalignments compromise data quality.Experiments need constant coordination
DoE execution, setpoint changes and sampling must happen simultaneously, requiring multiple operators to stay in sync at every step.Specialist expertise becomes a bottleneck
When development depends on a small number of experts, every program slows down and capacity becomes the limiting factor.— Our solution: SimpleCT
From complexity to confidence
SimpleCT is a set of automated development tools integrated into the ConsiGma® continuous tableting platform. It is purpose‑built for R&D — focusing on rapid learning, efficient experimentation and reliable process insight, rather than production complexity.
All tools are designed for contained, repeatable and data aligned operation, supporting a structured and reliable development workflow.
1 operator
To run complex multivariate experiments Tasks that previously required multiple specialists, now handled by a single trained user.Fewer weeks
Shorter development timelines Even modest reductions in development time have meaningful impact on time-to-market and project value.1:1
Direct transfer to production Process parameters transfer directly to the ConsiGma® production platform. No re-development.Overview of the SimpleCT tools
Development steps can be predefined and executed automatically. Instead of manually adjusting dozens of parameters under time pressure, operators move through experimental conditions in a controlled, repeatable way — reducing setup time and minimising the risk of missed steps or incorrect entries.
System hold-up assessments and aligned data capture can be triggered at the touch of a button — removing co-ordination overhead and ensuring data integrity across experimental runs.
Automated sampling systems collect, bag, label and document samples at high frequency without manual intervention. Tasks that once required multiple operators working closely together can now be performed safely and consistently by a single trained user.
Manual spiking operations have historically posed safety and operational concerns. Automated RTD tools ensure accurate timing, consistent spike introduction and full alignment between process data and experimental events — removing a common source of uncertainty in RTD studies.
One workflow, fewer manual steps
— Key benefits
Faster experiments, safer development
By removing manual coordination and embedding automation into critical development steps, SimpleCT helps R&D teams work faster, generate more reliable data and build confidence in continuous tableting early in the product lifecycle.
01
Faster development and decision making
Run multivariate experiments in fewer runs Reduce manual setpoint changes and coordination Shorten development timelines and speed up progression02
Higher data quality and process insight
Time aligned process and sampling data Reduced human error during experiments Greater confidence in RTD, mixing behavior and operating windows03
Lower resource and expertise burden
Complex development activities can often be run by a single operator Reduced dependence on highly specialized personnel More efficient use of limited R&D resources04
Safer, more contained development
Minimized manual handling of APIs Improved operator safety and containment Lower risk during intensive experimentation— GEA & Hovione
Built together
Together with Hovione, a leading pharmaceutical CDMO, we developed SimpleCT to address the challenges that R&D scientists actually struggle with in continuous manufacturing development.
It integrates seamlessly across GEA's ConsiGma® continuous ecosystem, so process knowledge transfers directly to production without the need to start again from scratch.
"SimpleCT allows teams to build confidence in continuous tableting early, creating a stronger foundation for later development stages and commercialisation."
Anthony Tantuccio
Fellow Scientist, Continuous Tableting/Technology Intensification at Hovione
Frequently Asked Questions
What R&D teams most frequently ask when evaluating SimpleCT
Ready to integrate continuous tableting in your R&D?
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