Must every region of a capsule have identical thickness?
Not necessarily. Rounded, bead and straight-wall regions can have different intended thicknesses. Define the region and intended profile; comparing an intentionally thick feature with a sidewall can mistake design geometry for a process deviation.
Separate variation around one section, variation along the intended profile and variation between shells at matched features. Investigating manufacturing consistency does not mean treating every regional difference as a defect.
No. A mean combines observations and does not retain their locations or extremes. Preserve location labels and the distribution of results needed for the question. A pooled mean across cap domes, body walls and different shells answers a different question from uniformity at one defined feature.
Compare matched locations on individual shells and distinguish the intended profile from departures from it. Assess functional effects using evidence for that shell application; a thickness category used for an inhalation capsule is not a general criterion for oral supplement shells.