RU2826001C1 - Inhaler product holder to prevent reactivation thereof when inhaler product is inserted into holder for use - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medicine.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to medical equipment, namely to a holder for an inhaler product for preventing its reactivation when the inhaler product is inserted into the holder for use. Holder comprises a sleeve located in the cavity of the casing and containing a sleeve cavity configured to receive an inhaler product. Sleeve is made with possibility of movement inside the specified cavity of the casing between the first position and the second position. Holder has a piercing element configured to pierce the inhalation product placed in the cartridge when the cartridge is moved from the first position to the second position. Holder includes a locking mechanism containing a guide, a follower connected to the sleeve, and a holding section. Tracking element is made with possibility of movement along the guide inside the retaining section when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. Retaining section is configured to retain the tracking element when the sleeve returns to the first position, thus holding the sleeve in the first position. Tracking element is configured to be in a neutral position, in which the tracking element is free from conjugation with the guide when there is no inhaler product inside the sleeve cavity.

EFFECT: prevention of more than single activation of the inhaler product.

14 cl, 13 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to a holder for an inhalation product that helps prevent the inhalation product from being activated more than once.

Some inhalation products contain capsules containing dry powder. These capsules can be activated by puncturing the capsule wall. Typically, the user will not receive any indication that the capsule has been punctured (or “activated”). This may result in the user activating the capsule multiple times. Activating the capsule more than once may alter the powder delivery by increasing the size of the puncture hole or increasing the number of holes, resulting in increased potency delivery and a shorter use session.

It would be desirable to provide an inhalation device that is capable of preventing the user from accidentally puncturing the capsule or activating the inhalation device more than once when the inhalation device is inserted into a cartridge for use.

It would be desirable to create such a holder for an inhalation product that would prevent multiple activation of a powder capsule of an inhalation product placed in said holder. It would be desirable for the inhalation system to provide an indication to the user that the capsule has been activated. It would also be desirable to create a system with an inhalation product that would be convenient for the consumer to use.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a holder for an inhalation product is proposed, comprising a sleeve located inside a casing cavity, a piercing element and a locking mechanism. The sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity configured to receive the inhalation product. The sleeve is configured to move inside the casing cavity between the first position and the second position. The piercing element is configured to pierce the inhalation product placed inside the sleeve, when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The locking mechanism comprises a guide, a follower connected to the sleeve, and a retaining section. The follower is configured to move along the guide inside the retaining section when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. The retaining section is configured to retain the follower when the sleeve returns to the first position, and thus the sleeve will be retained in the first position.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a holder for an inhalation product is proposed, comprising a sleeve located inside a casing cavity, a piercing element and a locking mechanism. The sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity configured to receive the inhalation product. The sleeve is configured to move inside the casing cavity between the first position and the second position. The piercing element is configured to pierce the inhalation product located inside the sleeve, when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The locking mechanism comprises a guide, a follower connected to the sleeve, and a holding section. The follower is configured to move along the guide inside the holding section when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. The holding section is configured to hold the follower when the sleeve returns to the first position, and thus the sleeve will be held in the first position. The tracking element is designed in such a way that it is in a neutral position, in which the tracking element is not coupled with the guide, in the absence of an inhalation product inside the sleeve cavity.

The inclusion of a locking mechanism in the holder for the inhalation product provides the advantage of being able to prevent the inhalation product from being activated more than once when the inhalation product is inserted into the sleeve for use. In addition, due to the fact that the locking mechanism comprises a guide, a follower connected to the sleeve, and a holding section, a locking mechanism with a simple structure, a small number of moving parts and no electronics is provided.

The follower may be located in a neutral position, in which the follower is not coupled with the guide when there is no inhalation product inside the sleeve cavity. The follower may be designed to move relative to the sleeve. The follower may be designed to couple with the inhalation product when the inhalation product is inserted into the sleeve cavity, so that the inhalation product moves the follower from the neutral position to the position of contact with the guide. The follower may extend inside the sleeve cavity in a neutral position. The follower may be flexible, so that this follower deviates outward with distance from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve to the position of contact with the guide when the inhalation product is inserted into the sleeve cavity. The follower may be offset in the direction of the neutral position so that the follower moves from the position of contact with the guide or with the holding section when the inhalation product is removed from the sleeve, and thus the possibility of movement of the sleeve is ensured.

As an advantage, the tracking element with a neutral position inside the sleeve cavity prevents the locking mechanism from being triggered when the holder is not used with an inhalation product. This makes it possible to prevent the sleeve from being blocked when there is no inhalation product in the sleeve.

The follower and the guide may be configured to create an audible sound when in contact with each other. The guide may be configured to move the follower in the first lateral direction away from the initial lateral orientation when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The guide may be configured to move the follower along the first path when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The follower may be offset in the direction of the initial lateral orientation. The guide may have such a shape that the follower returns to the initial lateral orientation when the sleeve is in the second position. The follower and the guide may be configured to create an audible sound when the follower returns to the initial lateral orientation.

As an advantage, the follower and the guide, configured to create an audible sound when triggered, provide the possibility of an audible indication of the triggering of the locking mechanism. In addition, the follower and the guide, configured to create an audible sound when returning to the initial lateral orientation, provide the possibility of an audible indication that the inhalation article has been moved to the appropriate position for piercing. In addition, the follower, shifted to the initial lateral position, provides for the guide the possibility of preventing the follower from returning downwards along the first path after reaching the second position.

The guide may be configured to move the follower in the second lateral direction by means of said guide when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. The second lateral direction may be opposite to the first lateral direction. The guide may be configured to move the follower along the second path when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. The retaining section may have a shape that ensures retention of the follower inside the retaining section to counteract the sleeve movement when the follower reaches the retaining section. The retaining section may comprise at least one stop surface configured to counteract lateral movement of the follower.

A retaining section having a shape that ensures retention of the follower within the retaining section to resist movement of the sleeve when the follower reaches the retaining section provides the advantage of being able to prevent additional puncturing of inhalation articles placed in the sleeve. In addition, the follower, offset in the direction of the initial lateral position, allows movement of the follower along the guide to the retaining section, which preserves the shape and function of the existing design while providing a mechanism that prevents accidental puncturing of the capsule or more than one activation of the inhalation article when inserting the inhalation article into the sleeve for use.

The follower may be an elongated element connected to the sleeve. The elongated element may be formed as a single unit with the sleeve. The elongated element may be a component distinct from the sleeve and attached to it.

A follower element connected or formed as a single unit with the sleeve provides the advantage of being able to provide a simple mechanism with a small number of moving parts to prevent accidental puncturing of the capsule or inhalation product. In addition, a follower element that is an elongated element allows for lateral displacement and movement of the follower element without the need for any complex additional sleeve elements.

The guide may comprise a projection. The guide may comprise a channel. The guide may form a section of the inner surface of the casing cavity.

The guide forming a section of the inner surface of the cavity of the casing provides the advantage of being able to provide a mechanism for preventing accidental puncturing of the capsule or inhalation product without changing the appearance of the holder and without changing its existing shape and functions.

The follower may be a lever extending from a first end to a second end. The first end may be connected to the sleeve, and the second end may comprise an end interacting element extending from the lever. The end interacting element may form a pointed oval shape. The end interacting element may have a main longitudinal axis. The main longitudinal axis may form an angle with the longitudinal axis of the sleeve in the range from approximately 30 degrees to approximately 75 degrees. The end interacting element may interact with the guide to provide an audible indication that the sleeve is in the second position. The follower may have a longitudinal axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve in the neutral position.

The follower, which is a lever extending from the first end to the second end, provides the advantage of being able to laterally shift and move the follower without the need to rotate the sleeve or change its existing functions. In addition, the end interacting element extending from the lever provides the ability to interact with the guide while simultaneously providing the ability to laterally move the follower without rotating the sleeve. In addition, the end interacting element of a pointed oval shape provides the ability to smoothly move the follower along the guide without leaving the interaction with the guide. In addition, the end interacting element and the guide, which provide an audible indication of the sleeve being in the second position, provide the ability to audibly indicate that the capsule is punctured or the inhalation article is activated.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the inhalation system comprises a holder for an inhalation article, as described herein, and an inhalation article. The system further comprises a capsule, located inside a cavity for a capsule in the inhalation article. The capsule contains pharmaceutically active particles containing nicotine.

As an advantage, it provides the ability to position and activate the inhalation device while preventing accidental or additional activations without changing the shape and function of the existing design.

The pharmaceutically active particles may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 0.5 micrometers to about 4 micrometers, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 3 micrometers.

The capsule may further comprise a second plurality of particles comprising flavor particles having a mass median aerodynamic diameter of approximately 20 micrometers or greater, or approximately 50 micrometers or greater, or in the range of approximately 50 to approximately 200 micrometers, or from approximately 50 to approximately 150 micrometers.

The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives such as freebase nicotine, nicotine salts, and the like.

The term "flavoring agent" or "flavoring agent" refers to organoleptic compounds, compositions or materials that alter the taste or aroma characteristics of nicotine during its consumption or inhalation and are intended to do so.

The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the relative positions of the elements of the holder, the inhalation device and the inhalation systems, described with respect to the direction of inhaled air flow as it is drawn through the body of the holder, the inhalation device and the inhalation systems.

The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used to describe the relative positions of components or parts of components of a holder, an inhalation article or a system. The holders or elements (such as a sleeve) that form a holder according to the present invention have a proximal end in which the inhalation article is placed during use, and an opposite distal end, which may be a closed end, or they have an end located closer to the proximal end of the holder. The inhalation articles according to the present invention have a proximal end. In use, nicotine particles exit from the proximal end of the inhalation article for delivery to the user. The inhalation article has a distal end opposite the proximal end. The proximal end of the inhalation article may also be called a mouthpiece end.

A holder for an inhalation article described in this document can be combined with an inhalation article containing a capsule to activate the inhalation article by puncturing the capsule, which ensures reliable activation of the capsule (by puncturing the capsule using the puncturing element of the holder) inside the inhalation article, with the release of particles contained inside the capsule and the ability to deliver said particles to a consumer using the article. The holder is separate from the inhalation article, but the consumer can use both the inhalation article and the holder when consuming particles released inside the inhalation article. A plurality of such inhalation articles can be combined with the holder to form a system or kit. One holder may be used for 10 or more, or 25 or more, or 50 or more, or 100 or more inhalation products to activate (puncture or pierce) the capsule contained within each inhalation product and to provide reliable activation and, where appropriate, visual indication (marking) of activation of each inhalation product.

The inhalation system comprises an inhalation device and a holder for the inhalation device, as described in this document. The holder sleeve holds the inhalation device, which is placed in the sleeve cavity. A capsule may be located inside the housing of the inhalation device.

The inhalation product may comprise a housing extending along the longitudinal axis of the inhalation product from the mouthpiece end to the distal end. Inside said housing, limited further downstream by a filter element, and earlier downstream by a tubular element forming a central passage, a cavity for a capsule may be formed. The central passage may form an air inlet opening extending from the distal end of said housing in the direction of the capsule cavity. The capsule may be placed in the capsule cavity, wherein said central passage may have a smaller diameter than the capsule. This ensures that the capsule cannot pass through the central passage, and it is retained in the capsule cavity.

The holder for the inhalation product comprises a sleeve located inside the casing cavity, a piercing element and a locking mechanism. The sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity configured to receive the inhalation product. The sleeve is configured to move inside the casing cavity between the first and second positions. The piercing element is configured to pierce the inhalation product located inside the sleeve when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The locking mechanism comprises a guide, a follower connected to the sleeve and a holding section. The follower is configured to move along the guide inside the holding section when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. The holding section is configured to retain the follower when the sleeve returns to the first position, and thus the sleeve will be retained in the first position.

The tracking element can be attached to the sleeve, connected to it or made as a single unit with it. The tracking element can be located in a neutral position, in which the tracking element is not coupled with the guide, in the absence of the inhalation product inside the sleeve cavity. The tracking element can be located in a neutral position in the absence of the inhalation product inside the sleeve cavity. In the neutral position, the tracking element can pass into the sleeve cavity in the direction of the longitudinal axis. After placing the inhalation product in the sleeve cavity, the tracking element can be moved to couple with the guide. The tracking element can be made with the possibility of moving relative to the sleeve, and it can be made with the possibility of coupling with the inhalation product when inserting the inhalation product into the sleeve cavity so that the inhalation product moves the tracking element from the neutral position to the position of contact with the guide. When the tracking element is in the neutral position, it is possible for the tracking element to pass inside the sleeve cavity at a distance from the said guide or the inner surface of the holder. When the inhalation product is inserted into the sleeve cavity, it is possible for the inhalation product to push the tracking element out of the neutral position and the sleeve cavity into the position of contact with the guide.

The follower may be flexible, so that this follower is deflected outwardly with a distance from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve into the position of contact with the guide when the inhalation article is inserted into the sleeve cavity. The follower may be offset in the direction of the neutral position so that the follower moves from the position of contact with the guide or with the holding section when the inhalation article is removed from the sleeve, and thus the possibility of moving the sleeve is ensured. For example, if the follower is moved into the holding section, so that the sleeve is held in the first position, the removal of the inhalation article and the return of the follower to the neutral position make it possible to move the sleeve released by the holding section.

The follower and the guide may be designed to produce an audible sound when in contact with each other. The follower and the guide may produce an audible sound, such as a click, crack, knock or other short clicking sound, when the inhalation product is inserted into the sleeve and the follower is brought into contact with the guide. The audible sound provides the ability to indicate to the user that the follower is properly positioned or in contact with the guide.

The guide may be configured to move the follower in the first lateral direction away from the initial lateral orientation when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The guide may be configured to move the follower by a distance in the range from 0.5 millimeters to 2 millimeters in the first lateral direction when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. Preferably, the guide may be configured to move the follower by a distance of approximately 1.2 millimeters in the first lateral direction when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position.

The guide may be configured to move the follower along the first path when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The follower may be offset in the direction of the initial lateral orientation.

The guide may have such a shape that the follower element returns to the initial lateral orientation when the sleeve is in the second position. The guide may have such a shape that it is impossible for the follower element to return upward along the first path when the sleeve is in the second position. The follower element and the guide may be designed to create an audible sound when the follower element returns to the initial lateral orientation. The follower element and the guide may produce an audible sound, such as a click, crackle, knock or other short clicking sound, when the sleeve is moved to the second position with the follower element in contact with the guide. The audible sound provides the ability to indicate to the user that the sleeve has reached the second position.

The guide may be configured to move the follower in the second lateral direction by means of said guide when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. The guide may be configured to move the follower by a distance of approximately 1 millimeter to approximately 3 millimeters in the second lateral direction when the sleeve is moved from the second position to the first position. Preferably, the guide may be configured to move the follower by a distance of approximately 1.8 millimeters in the second lateral direction when the sleeve is moved from the second position to the first position.

The second lateral direction is opposite to the first lateral direction. The guide may be designed to move the follower along the second path when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. The follower, returned to the initial lateral orientation in the second position, provides the possibility of placing the follower in the position to which it should be moved in the second lateral direction or along the second path by means of the guide.

The follower may be made of an elastically deformable material. Suitable elastically deformable materials may include a thermoplastic material. Suitable elastically deformable materials may include polyetheretherketone, polyamide, acetal (polyactal or polyoxymethylene), polybutylene terephthalate, styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer or other materials that can be subjected to displacement and elastic deformation. Preferably, the follower may be made of acetal (polyactal or polyoxymethylene). Preferably, the follower may be made of polyetheretherketone.

The follower can be designed with the possibility of elastic deformation or bending in such a way that it is possible to bend the follower by an amount in the range from about 1.0 millimeter to about 2.0 millimeters outwardly with a distance from the longitudinal axis to the position of contact with the guide when placing the inhalation article in the sleeve. Preferably, it is possible to move or bend the follower outwardly by about 1.5 millimeters. In addition, the follower can be designed with the possibility of elastic deformation or bending to ensure the possibility of moving the follower along the guide, in particular lateral movement, by an amount in the range from about 0.5 millimeter to about 2.0 millimeters.

It is possible to move the follower in the first lateral direction when it moves inside the retaining section. It is possible to shift the retaining section from the initial lateral orientation in the second lateral direction. The retaining section may have a shape that ensures the follower is retained inside the retaining section to counteract the movement of the sleeve when the follower reaches the retaining section. The retaining section may comprise at least one stop surface configured to counteract the lateral movement of the follower. The stop surface ensures the possibility of preventing the follower from moving back to the initial lateral orientation.

The follower may be an elongated element connected to the sleeve. The elongated element may be made as a single unit with the sleeve. The elongated element may be a component different from the sleeve and attached to it. The elongated element may be made with the possibility of elastic deformation when it is moved by means of a guide.

The guide may comprise a projection. The projection may extend from the inner surface of the casing inside the cavity of the casing. The projection may be connected to the inner surface of the casing. The projection may be configured to deflect the follower and direct this follower along the first path when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The projection may be additionally configured to deflect and direct the follower along the second path when the sleeve is moved from the second position to the first position.

The retaining section may comprise a retaining projection. The retaining projection may extend from the inner surface of the casing inside the cavity of the casing. The retaining projection may comprise a stop surface for preventing lateral movement of the follower.

The guide may comprise a channel. The channel may extend into the inner surface of the casing inside the cavity of the casing. The channel may be connected to the inner surface of the casing. The channel may be configured to accommodate a portion of the follower inside the channel or to be in contact with it. The channel may comprise a first path and a second path. The channel may be configured to deflect the follower and direct it along the first path when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The channel may be additionally configured to deflect and direct the follower along the second path when the sleeve is moved from the second position to the first position.

The retaining section may comprise a retaining channel or recess. The retaining channel may extend from the inner surface of the casing inside the cavity of the casing. The retaining channel may comprise a stop surface to prevent lateral movement of the follower.

The guide may form a section of the inner surface of the casing cavity. The guide may form a projection of the inner surface of the casing cavity. The guide may form a channel of the inner surface of the casing cavity.

The follower may be a lever extending from the first end to the second end, wherein the first end is connected to the sleeve, and the second end comprises an end interacting element extending from the lever. The lever may be made with the possibility of bending or deforming from the first end to the second end when moving it in the lateral direction by means of a guide. The lever may be made with the possibility of bending or bending in a neutral position so that the second end extends inside the sleeve cavity. The lever may be made so that it is in a neutral position when there is no inhalation product inside the sleeve cavity. The lever may be a console.

The tracking element may be a console extending from the first end to the second end. The first end may be connected to the sleeve. The second end may be a free end, so that the possibility of moving this second end independently of the first end is provided. In other words, the possibility of bending or moving the second end in directions different from the directions of movement of the first end is provided. The second end may be designed with the possibility of interacting with the guide when the inhalation product is in the sleeve cavity. The console may be designed with the possibility of bending or deforming from the first end to the second end when it is moved by means of the inhalation product or the guide.

The end interacting element can form a pointed oval shape. The end interacting element can have a main longitudinal axis. The main longitudinal axis can form an angle with the longitudinal axis of the sleeve in the range from about 30 degrees to about 75 degrees. Preferably, the main longitudinal axis can form an angle with the longitudinal axis of the sleeve of about 55 degrees. The end interacting element can be characterized by a distance to the interacting element, which is the distance between the longitudinal axis of the sleeve and the edge of the end interacting element. The distance to the interacting element can be in the range from about 0.5 millimeters to about 2 millimeters. Preferably, the distance to the interacting element is about 1 millimeter. The end interacting element can interact with the guide to provide an audible indication that the sleeve is in the second position.

The follower may have a longitudinal axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve in the neutral position. The sleeve may be designed to receive the distal end region of the inhalation article and to be positioned around it. The sleeve may have a base surface for contact with the distal end of the inhalation article. The base surface may form the distal end of the sleeve and the opposite open near end of the sleeve. The sleeve may extend from the distal end to the open near end. The sleeve may hold the inhalation article by means of an interference fit.

The sleeve may comprise an opening at the distal end of the sleeve, and the piercing element may pass through said opening. The distal end of the inhalation article may contact the surface of the sleeve base and forcefully move the sleeve in the direction of the piercing element. The sleeve may be coaxial with the piercing element. The sleeve provides the ability to align the inhalation article so that the piercing element reliably activates the capsule inside the inhalation article. The sleeve also provides the ability to mechanically retain the piercing element and support the piercing element to prevent or reduce the deflection of the piercing element.

The sleeve may form a first air inlet zone comprising at least one air opening passing through the sleeve. The first air inlet zone may comprise two or more, three or more, four or more, or from approximately 1 to approximately 10 air openings, or from approximately 3 to approximately 9 air openings. The first air inlet zone is located near the near end of the sleeve. The first air inlet zone is configured to ensure air flow from the inner region of the sleeve into the air flow channel formed between the sleeve and the inner surface of the casing.

The sleeve may comprise a second air inlet zone comprising at least one air opening passing through the sleeve. The second air inlet zone may comprise two or more, three or more, four or more, or from approximately 1 to approximately 10 air openings, or from approximately 3 to approximately 9 air openings. The second air inlet zone is located near the distal end of the sleeve. The second air inlet zone is configured to ensure air flow from the said air flow channel into the inner region of the sleeve.

In some embodiments, a portion of the internal cavity between the first air inlet zone and the second air inlet zone may have a reduced diameter. In these embodiments, it is ensured that air (inhaled air) cannot pass from the near end of the sleeve to the far end of the sleeve between the sleeve and the inhalation article. In these embodiments, providing the first and second air inlet zones provides the advantage of allowing air to enter the open end of the holder and pass to the far end of the inhalation article while simultaneously ensuring the possibility of securely holding the article in the sleeve. In this way, it is ensured that the inhalation article can be consumed by the user while the inhalation article is enclosed within the holder.

The holder may comprise a retaining ring element attached to the open proximal end of the casing. The retaining ring element retains the sleeve within the cavity for the inhalation product. The retaining ring has a thickness sufficient to stop or block the movement of the sleeve within the cavity for the inhalation product in the holder.

The holder may comprise a spring element configured to shift the sleeve between a weakening position (the first position) and a compression position (the second position) in the direction of the open near end of the casing. The spring element may be enclosed inside the cavity for the inhalation product in the holder and compressed when the movable sleeve and the inhalation product move in the direction of the piercing element. The spring element may be located between the sleeve and the far end of the casing and contact the sleeve and the far end of the casing. The spring element may be located around the piercing element. The spring element may be coaxial with the piercing element. The spring element may be a conical spring.

The spring element may be attached to the distal end of the holder. The spring element may be attached to the distal end of the sleeve. The spring element may be attached to both the distal end of the holder and the distal end of the sleeve. The spring element may be a conical spring. A conical spring provides the advantage of being able to create a low-profile design, which makes it possible to provide a more flexible design and a smaller overall thickness when compressed. By using a conical spring, there is also the advantage of being able to reduce the likelihood of spring bulging when compressed, compared to a cylindrical spring.

The spring element displaces the inhalation article, removing it from interaction with the piercing element and moving it away from it, as soon as the piercing element has activated the inhalation article. The spring element can be located around the piercing element. The spring element can be coaxial with the piercing element. The piercing element can extend beyond the spring element when the spring element is in the weakened position. The piercing element can extend beyond the spring element when the spring element is in the compression position. The piercing element can extend beyond the spring element when the spring element is in both the relaxed position and the compression position. The piercing element can extend beyond the spring element when the sleeve compresses the spring element.

The placement of the piercing element inside the casing protects the piercing element from coming into contact with surfaces not intended for placement inside the piercing element. The placement of the piercing element inside the casing also provides the ability to protect the piercing element from damage or change under the action of surfaces not intended for placement inside the piercing element.

The length of the piercing element may be any suitable length relative to the length of the casing. For example, the length of the piercing element may be from about 25% to about 60%, or from about 30% to about 50% of the length of the casing. The distal end of the piercing element may be attached to the distal end adjacent to the distal end of the casing or at this end. The total length of the piercing element may be the same as the length of the casing.

The piercing element is made of a rigid material. The rigid material is sufficiently rigid to pierce, puncture, or activate the capsule contained within the inhalation device. The piercing element may be made of metal. The piercing element may be made of stainless steel, such as grade 316 stainless steel. The piercing element may be made of a polymer material. The piercing element may be made of a fiber-reinforced polymer material.

The casing may be made of any rigid material. The casing may be made of a polymeric material. Polymeric materials suitable for the casing include, for example, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer, styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer, polyacrylate, polystyrene, polybutylene terephthalate-based polyester, polyethylene terephthalate-based polyester, polyoxymethylene, polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyetheretherketone or liquid crystal polymer. Polypropylene, polyethylene or their copolymers are preferred materials for the casing.

The inhalation article can be placed in the holder so that the outer surface of the inhalation article and the outer surface of the casing holder are concentric. The longitudinal axis of the piercing element can be coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the casing and the longitudinal axis of the inhalation article when the inhalation article is placed inside the holder. The casing can extend along the length by at least approximately 50% or at least approximately 75% of the length of the inhalation article when the inhalation article is placed inside the holder.

The holder can be made using insert molding technologies. First, a piercing element can be made, for example by molding, and then a housing can be molded around the piercing element, associated with the piercing element. The piercing element can be a metal piercing element, and the housing can be molded around the metal piercing element in such a way that the metal piercing element is attached to the housing. The metal piercing element can contain projections or recesses at the distal end of the piercing element to increase the surface area of the distal end of the piercing element and improve fixation inside the molded material of the housing.

An air channel in the inhalation article may pass through the end cap or end element of the inhalation article to provide an air flow through the inhalation article. The air channel that supplies an air flow to the cavity for the capsule may be designed to receive or create a swirling pattern of air flow inside the cavity for the capsule in the inhaler body. The configuration of the air channel provides the ability to create a rotating air flow or a swirling air flow when air flows through the air channel and through the cavity for the capsule. The air flow flowing through the inhalation article may enter the inhalation article at the distal end of the inhalation article and move along the longitudinal axis of the inhalation article to the mouthpiece end. The air flow passing through the inhalation device may enter the inhalation device at a location located along the body of the inhalation device earlier along the flow or along the cavity for the capsule, and move along the longitudinal axis of the inhalation device to the mouthpiece end.

The body of the inhalation article may be similar to a smoking article or a cigarette in size and shape. The body of the inhalation article may be an elongated body extending along the longitudinal axis of the inhalation article. The body of the inhalation article may have a substantially constant outer diameter along the length of the elongated body. The body of the inhalation article may have a circular cross-section, which may be constant along the length of the elongated body. The body of the inhalation article may have an outer diameter in the range of from about 6 mm to about 10 mm, or from about 7 mm to about 10 mm, or from about 7 mm to about 9 mm, or from about 7 mm to about 8 mm, or about 7.2 mm. The body of the inhalation article may have a length (along the longitudinal axis) in the range of from about 40 mm to about 80 mm, or from about 40 mm to about 70 mm, or from about 40 mm to about 50 mm, or about 45 mm.

The inhalation article may have an open distal end or an upstream end formed by a tubular element forming a central passage. The open central passage may form a cylindrical open opening extending from the capsule cavity to the open distal end or an upstream end of the inhalation article. The open tubular element forming the open central passage may have a length in the range from about 3 mm to about 12 mm, or from about 3 mm to about 7 mm, or from about 4 mm to about 6 mm, or about 5 mm.

The open tubular element forming the open central passage may be made of a cellulose material. The open tubular element forming the open central passage may be made of acetyl cellulose material. Preferably, the open tubular element is made of a biodegradable material. The open tubular element forming the open central passage may have a thickness in the range from about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, or from about 0.5 mm to about 1 mm.

The filter element, located downstream of the capsule cavity, may extend from the capsule cavity to the mouthpiece end of the inhaler article. The filter element may have a length in the range from about 10 mm to about 30 mm, preferably from about 15 mm to about 25 mm, more preferably from about 20 mm to about 22 mm.

The capsule cavity can form a cylindrical space configured to accommodate a capsule (which can have a cross-section, for example, in the form of a stadium or a circular cross-section). The capsule cavity can have a substantially constant or uniform diameter along the length of the capsule cavity. The capsule cavity can have a fixed cavity length. The capsule cavity has an internal cavity diameter perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the capsule has an external capsule diameter. The capsule cavity can be made with such a size as to accommodate a capsule having the shape of a cylinder with hemispherical ends. The capsule cavity can be substantially cylindrical or have a circular cross-section along the length of the capsule cavity. The capsule cavity can have a constant internal diameter. The capsule can have an external diameter that is from about 80% to about 95% of the internal diameter of the capsule cavity. The configuration of the capsule cavity relative to the capsule provides the ability to facilitate limited movement of the capsule during activation or puncturing of the capsule.

The cavity for the capsule may be formed by an open tubular element. The open tubular element may be connected between the open tubular element forming the distal end of the inhaler article and the filter element, and aligned end to end with them. These elements may be connected to the wrapper. The open tubular element forming the cavity for the capsule may be made of a biodegradable material, such as cardboard or thick paper.

The configuration of the capsule cavity relative to the capsule provides the ability to facilitate stable rotation of the capsule inside the capsule cavity. The ability to steadily rotate the longitudinal axis of the capsule coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the inhalation product body during inhalation is ensured. The configuration of the capsule cavity relative to the capsule provides the ability to facilitate rotation of the capsule with some vibrations inside the capsule cavity.

Stable rotation refers to the longitudinal axis of the inhalation product body being substantially parallel to the rotation axis of the capsule or coaxial with it. Stable rotation may refer to the absence of precession of the rotating capsule. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the inhalation product body may substantially coincide with the rotation axis of the capsule. Due to the stable rotation of the capsule, it is possible to uniformly capture a proportion of nicotine particles from the capsule in two or more, five or more, or ten or more "puffs" or inhalations of the user.

It is possible to seal the capsule inside the inhalation product before consumption. The inhalation product may be enclosed inside a sealed or airtight container or package. The inhalation product may comprise one or more tear-off or removable sealing layers for covering one or more air inlet channels, or an air outlet, or a mouthpiece of the inhalation product.

The possibility of rotation of the capsule around its longitudinal or central axis is provided when air flows through the inhalation product. The capsule can be made of an airtight material that can be punctured or broken by means of a piercing element, which can be separate from the inhalation product or combined with it. The capsule can be made of a metal or polymer material that serves to retain contaminants outside the capsule, but which can be punctured or broken by means of a piercing element before consuming nicotine particles located inside the capsule. The capsule can be made of a polymer material. The polymer material can be hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). The capsule can be a capsule with a size from 1 to 4 or a capsule with a size 3.

A separate holder, such as described herein, defines a single opening passing through a capsule positioned in said capsule cavity.

The capsule may comprise nicotine particles containing nicotine (also referred to as "nicotine powder" or "nicotine particles") and, optionally, particles containing a flavoring substance (also referred to as "flavoring particles"). The said capsule may comprise a predetermined number of nicotine particles and, optionally, flavoring particles. The capsule may comprise a sufficient number of nicotine particles to provide at least 2 inhalations or "puffs", at least about 5 inhalations or "puffs", or at least about 10 inhalations or "puffs". The capsule may comprise a sufficient number of nicotine particles to provide from about 5 to about 50 inhalations or "puffs", or from about 10 to about 30 inhalations or "puffs". Each inhalation or "puff" can deliver from about 0.1 mg to about 3 mg of nicotine particles into the user's lungs, or from about 0.2 mg to about 2 mg of nicotine particles into the user's lungs, or about 1 mg of nicotine particles into the user's lungs.

The nicotine particles may have any suitable concentration of nicotine determined by the particular formulation used. The nicotine particles may contain at least about 1 wt. % nicotine to about 30 wt. % nicotine, or about 2 wt. % to about 25 wt. % nicotine, or about 3 wt. % to about 20 wt. % nicotine, or about 4 wt. % to about 15 wt. % nicotine, or about 5 wt. % to about 13 wt. % nicotine. Preferably, each inhalation or "puff" may deliver about 50 to about 150 micrograms of nicotine to the user's lungs.

The capsule may hold or contain at least about 5 mg of nicotine particles, or at least about 10 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule may hold or contain less than about 900 mg of nicotine particles, or less than about 300 mg of nicotine particles, or less than 150 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule may hold or contain from about 5 mg to about 300 mg of nicotine particles, or from about 10 mg to about 200 mg of nicotine particles.

If the flavour particles are mixed or combined with the nicotine particles within the capsule, the flavour particles may be present in an amount that ensures that the desired flavour/aroma is delivered to the user with each inhalation or "puff".

The nicotine particles may have any suitable size distribution for inhalation delivery primarily to the user's lungs. The capsule may contain particles other than nicotine particles. The nicotine particles and other particles may form a powder system.

The capsule may hold or contain at least about 5 mg of dry powder (also referred to as a powder system), or at least about 10 mg of dry powder. The capsule may hold or contain less than about 900 mg of dry powder, or less than about 300 mg of dry powder, or less than about 150 mg of dry powder. The capsule may hold or contain from about 5 mg to about 300 mg of dry powder, or from about 10 mg to about 200 mg of dry powder, or from about 25 mg to about 100 mg of dry powder.

Said dry powder or powder system may have at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of the powder system contained in the form of nicotine particles having a particle size of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of from about 1 micrometer to about 5 micrometers.

The nicotine-containing particles may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 0.5 micrometers to about 4 micrometers, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 3 micrometers, or in the range of about 1.5 micrometers to about 2.5 micrometers. The mass median aerodynamic diameter is preferably measured using a cascade impactor.

The particles containing the flavoring substance may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 20 micrometers or more, or about 50 micrometers or more, or in the range of about 50 to about 200 micrometers, or about 50 to about 150 micrometers. The mass median aerodynamic diameter is preferably measured using a cascade impactor.

The dry powder may have an average diameter of about 60 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 40 micrometers, or in the range of about 1.5 micrometers to about 25 micrometers. The term "average diameter" refers to the average diameter per unit mass, and is preferably measured using laser diffraction, laser diffusion, or an electron microscope.

The nicotine in the powder system or nicotine particles may be a pharmaceutically acceptable free base nicotine, a nicotine salt or a hydrate of a nicotine salt. Suitable nicotine salts or hydrates of a nicotine salt include, for example, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine citrate, nicotine aspartate, nicotine lactate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine salicylate, nicotine fumarate, nicotine monopyruvate, nicotine glutamate or nicotine hydrochloride. The compound mixed with nicotine to form a salt or a hydrate of a salt may be selected based on its expected pharmacological effect.

The nicotine particles preferably comprise an amino acid. Preferably, the amino acid may be leucine, such as L-leucine. By providing an amino acid, such as L-leucine, together with the nicotine-containing particles, it is possible to reduce the adhesive forces of the nicotine-containing particles and to reduce the attraction between the nicotine particles, and thus reduce the agglomeration of the nicotine particles. Similarly, it is also possible to reduce the adhesive forces to the flavor-containing particles, and thus reduce the agglomeration of the nicotine particles with the flavor-aromatic particles. In this way, it is possible that the powder system described in this document will be a free-flowing material and have a stable relative particle size of each component of the powder even when the nicotine particles and the flavor-aromatic particles are mixed.

Preferably, the nicotine may be a surface modified nicotine salt, wherein the nicotine salt particles are coated particles or composite particles. A preferred coating material or composite material may be L-leucine. One particularly useful nicotine particle may be nicotine bitartrate with L-leucine.

The powder system may contain a plurality of flavor particles. The flavor particles may have any suitable size distribution for inhalation delivery selectively to the oral or buccal cavity of the user.

The powder system may contain at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of said plurality of flavor particles of the powder system contained in the form of particles having a particle size of about 20 micrometers or more. The powder system may contain at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of a plurality of aromatic particles of the powder system contained in the form of particles having a particle size of about 50 micrometers or more. The powder system may contain at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% by weight of a plurality of aromatic particles of the powder system contained in the form of particles having a particle size in the range from about 50 micrometers to about 150 micrometers.

The flavouring-containing particles may comprise a compound for reducing the adhesive forces or surface energy and the resulting agglomeration. The surface of the flavouring particles may be modified with a compound for reducing adhesion to form flavouring particles having a coating. One preferred compound for reducing adhesion may be magnesium stearate. By providing a compound for reducing adhesion, such as magnesium stearate, together with the flavouring particles, in particular by coating the flavouring particles, it is possible to reduce the adhesive forces of the flavouring-containing particles, to reduce the attraction between the flavouring particles and thus to reduce the agglomeration of the flavouring particles. In this way, it is also possible to reduce the agglomeration of the flavouring particles with nicotine particles. It is possible that the powder system described in this document will have a stable relative size of nicotine-containing particles and flavor-containing particles, even when the nicotine particles and flavor-containing particles are mixed. The powder system can preferably be free-flowing.

Conventional dry powder inhalation formulations contain carrier particles that serve to enhance fluidization of the active particles, since these active particles may be too small to be exposed to the air flow through the inhaler alone. The powder system may contain carrier particles. These carrier particles may be a saccharide, such as lactose or mannitol, which has a particle size greater than about 50 micrometers. Carrier particles may be used to improve dose uniformity by acting as a diluent or bulking agent in the formulation.

A powder system used with the nicotine powder delivery system described herein may be free of a carrier or substantially free of a saccharide such as lactose or mannitol. The absence of a carrier or substantially free of a saccharide such as lactose or mannitol is capable of allowing nicotine to be inhaled and delivered to the user's lungs at inhalation or airflow rates that are close to the inhalation or airflow rates of a typical smoking regimen.

The nicotine particles and the flavoring substance may be mixed in a single capsule. As described above, both the nicotine particles and the flavoring substance may have reduced adhesive forces, resulting in a stable particle composition in which the particle size of each component does not change significantly upon mixing. Alternatively, the powder system comprises nicotine particles enclosed within a first capsule and flavoring particles enclosed within a second capsule.

The nicotine particles and the flavor particles may be mixed in any suitable relative amount so that the flavor particles are perceived by the user when consumed with the nicotine particles. Preferably, the nicotine particles and the flavor particles constitute at least about 90 wt. %, or at least about 95 wt. %, or at least about 99 wt. %, or 100 wt. % of the total weight of the powder system.

It is possible that the said inhaler and inhaler system will be less complex and will have a simplified air flow path compared to conventional dry powder inhalers. Rotation of the capsule inside the body of the inhaler product provides the advantage of aerosolizing the nicotine particles or powder system and the ability to help maintain the free-flowing state of the powder. Thus, it is possible that the inhaler product will not require the increased inhalation rates usually used in conventional inhaler products to deliver the above-described nicotine particles deep into the lungs.

The inhalation product may use a flow rate of less than about 5 L/min, or less than about 3 L/min, or less than about 2 L/min, or about 1.6 L/min. Preferably, the flow rate may be in the range of about 1 L/min to about 3 L/min, or about 1.5 L/min to about 2.5 L/min. Preferably, the inhalation rate or flow rate may be close to the smoking mode value set by Health Canada, which is about 1.6 L/min.

The inhalation system may be used by the consumer in a manner similar to smoking a conventional cigarette or vaping an electronic cigarette. Such smoking or vaping may be characterized by two stages: a first stage in which a small volume containing the entire amount of nicotine required by the consumer is drawn into the oral cavity, followed by a second stage in which this small volume containing an aerosol, in turn containing the required amount of nicotine, is further diluted with fresh air and drawn deeper into the lungs. Both stages are controlled by the consumer. During the first stage of inhalation, the consumer can determine the amount of nicotine to be inhaled. During the second stage, the consumer can determine the volume to dilute the first volume to be drawn deeper into the lungs, maximizing the concentration of the active agent delivered to the surface of the airway epithelium. This smoking mechanism is sometimes called "puff-inhale-exhale".

All scientific and technical terms used in this document have the meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions provided in this document are intended to facilitate the understanding of certain terms frequently used in this document.

As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include embodiments with plural references unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

In the context of this document, the conjunction "or" is generally used in its meaning, including "and/or", unless the content clearly indicates otherwise. The conjunction "and/or" means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

As used herein, the words "have," "having," "include," "including," "contain," "containing," or the like are used in their broad sense and generally mean "including without limitation." It should be understood that the expressions "consisting essentially of," "consisting of," and the like are included in the category of "comprising," and the like.

The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to those embodiments of the present invention that are capable of providing certain advantages under certain conditions. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other conditions. Furthermore, the description of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not applicable, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present invention, including the claims.

According to an aspect of the present invention, a holder for an inhalation article is proposed. The holder may comprise a sleeve located inside a housing cavity. The holder may comprise a piercing element. The holder may comprise a locking mechanism. The sleeve may comprise a sleeve cavity configured to receive the inhalation article. The sleeve may be configured to move inside the housing cavity between a first position and a second position. The piercing element may be configured to pierce the inhalation article placed in the sleeve when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. The locking mechanism may comprise a guide. The locking mechanism may comprise a follower connected to the sleeve. The locking mechanism may comprise a holding section. The follower may be configured to move along the guide inside the holding section when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. The retaining section may be configured to retain the follower when the cartridge case is returned back to the first position, thereby maintaining the cartridge case in the first position.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

1: A holder for an inhalation article comprising a sleeve located inside a cavity of a casing, wherein the sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity configured to receive the inhalation article, and the sleeve is configured to move inside said cavity of the casing between a first position and a second position; a piercing element configured to pierce the inhalation article placed in the sleeve when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position; and a locking mechanism comprising a guide, a follower connected to the sleeve, and a holding section; wherein the follower is configured to move along the guide inside the holding section when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position, and the holding section is configured to retain the follower when the sleeve is returned back to the first position, in order to thereby retain the sleeve in the first position.

2: A holder according to example 1, in which the follower is designed in such a way that it is in a neutral position, in which the follower is not coupled with the guide when there is no inhalation product inside the sleeve cavity.

3: A holder according to example 2, in which the follower element is designed to move relative to the sleeve, and the follower element is designed to be mated with the inhalation article when the inhalation article is inserted into the sleeve cavity, so that the follower element moves from a neutral position to a position of contact with the guide.

4: A holder according to example 2 or example 3, in which the follower element extends inside the sleeve cavity in a neutral position.

5: A holder according to example 4, in which the follower is flexible so that the follower is deflected outward from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve into a position of contact with the guide when the inhalation article is placed in the sleeve cavity.

6: A holder according to any one of examples 2-5, in which the follower is biased in the direction of the neutral position such that the follower moves from the position of contact with the guide or with the holding portion when the inhaler article is removed from the sleeve.

7: A holder according to any of the previous examples, wherein the follower and the guide are configured to create an audible sound upon contact with each other.

8: A holder according to any of the previous examples, in which the guide is configured to move the follower in a first lateral direction away from the initial lateral orientation when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position.

9: The holder according to example 8, in which the guide is configured to move the follower along the first path when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position.

10: A holder according to example 8 or example 9, in which the follower is offset in the direction of the initial lateral orientation, and the guide is shaped such that the follower returns to the initial lateral orientation when the sleeve is in the second position.

11: A holder according to example 10, in which the follower and the guide are designed to generate sound when the follower returns to its original lateral orientation.

12: A holder according to any one of examples 8-11, in which the guide is configured to move the follower in a second lateral direction by means of the guide when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position.

13: A holder according to example 12, in which the second lateral direction is opposite to the first lateral direction.

14: A holder according to example 12 or example 13, in which the guide is configured to move the follower along the second path when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position.

15: A holder according to any of the previous examples, wherein the holding section is shaped such that the follower is retained within the holding section to resist movement of the cartridge when the follower reaches the holding section.

16: A holder according to example 15, in which the holding section comprises at least one stop surface configured to resist lateral movement of the follower.

17: A holder according to any of the previous examples, wherein the follower element is an elongated element connected to the sleeve.

18: A holder according to example 17, in which the elongated element is formed as a single piece with the sleeve.

19: A holder according to example 17, wherein the elongated element is a component other than the sleeve and is attached to it.

20: A holder according to any of the previous examples, wherein the guide comprises a projection.

21: A holder according to any one of examples 1-19, wherein the guide comprises a channel.

22: A holder according to any of the previous examples, wherein the guide forms part of the inner surface of the cavity of the casing.

23: A holder according to any of the previous examples, wherein the follower is a lever extending from a first end to a second end, wherein said first end is connected to the sleeve, and said second end comprises an end interacting element extending from the lever.

24: A holder according to example 23, in which the end interacting element forms a pointed oval shape.

25: A holder according to example 23 or example 24, wherein the end interacting element has a main longitudinal axis forming an angle with the longitudinal axis of the sleeve in the range from approximately 30 degrees to approximately 75 degrees.

26: A holder according to any one of examples 23-25, in which the end interacting element interacts with the guide to provide an audible indication that the sleeve is in the second position.

27: A holder according to any of the previous examples, wherein the follower has a longitudinal axis that, in the neutral position, is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve.

28: An inhalation system comprising a holder according to any of the previous examples and an inhalation article, wherein the system further comprises a capsule located within a capsule cavity of the inhalation article and containing pharmaceutically active particles containing nicotine.

29: The inhaler system of example 28, wherein the pharmaceutically active particles may have a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 0.5 micrometers to about 4 micrometers, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 3 micrometers.

30: An inhalation system according to example 29, wherein the capsule further comprises a second plurality of particles, which is a plurality of flavour particles having a mass median aerodynamic diameter of about 20 micrometers or greater, or about 50 micrometers or greater, or in the range of from about 50 to about 200 micrometers, or from about 50 to about 150 micrometers.

The present invention will now be further described with reference to the figures, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a top view of an illustrative inhaler system.

FIG. 2A and 2B are schematic cross-sectional views of the illustrative inhaler system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative inhaler product;

FIG. 4A is a partial isometric view of an illustrative cartridge case;

FIG. 4B is a partial isometric view of an illustrative holder for an inhaler article;

FIG. 4C is a schematic cross-sectional view of the illustrative holder of FIG. 4B;

FIG. 5A is a partial isometric view of an illustrative holder of an inhaler article;

FIG. 5B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the illustrative holder of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is a partial perspective view of the illustrative holder of FIGS. 5A and 5B;

FIGS. 6A-6F are schematic views of an illustrative guide;

FIG. 7A is a schematic sectional view of an illustrative holder;

FIG. 7B is another schematic sectional view of the illustrative holder of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative inhaler system;

FIGS. 8A-8F are schematic sectional views of an illustrative locking mechanism;

FIGS. 9A-9C are schematic sectional views of an illustrative guide;

FIG. 10A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative sleeve;

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of an illustrative tracking element;

FIGS. 11A-11F are schematic cross-sectional views of an illustrative locking mechanism;

FIGS. 12A-12C are schematic views of an illustrative guide;

FIG. 13A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative cartridge case; and

FIG. 13B is a perspective view of an illustrative tracking element.

These schematic drawings are not necessarily to scale and are provided for purposes of illustration and not limitation. The drawings depict one or more aspects described in the present invention. However, it should be understood that other aspects not depicted in the drawings fall within the scope and spirit of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary inhaler system 100. FIG. 2A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler system 100 of FIG. 1 with a sleeve 120 in a first position. FIG. 2A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler system 100 of FIG. 1 with a sleeve in a first position, and FIG. 2B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler system 100 with a sleeve 120 in a second position. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler article 150 of FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B.

The inhalation system 100 comprises an inhalation article 150 and a separate holder 110. The inhalation article 150 is placed inside the holder 110 for activating or puncturing the capsule 160 placed inside the inhalation article 150. The inhalation article 150 can remain in the holder 110 during use by the consumer. The holder 110 and the inhalation article 150 can be designed with the possibility of providing a vortex inhalation air flow through the placed inhalation article 150.

The inhalation system 100 comprises an inhalation article 150 and a holder 110. The inhalation article 150 comprises a housing 151 extending along the longitudinal axis L _A of the inhalation article from the mouthpiece end 154 to the distal end 156. The capsule 160 is placed inside the housing 151 of the inhalation article. The holder 110 comprises a movable sleeve 120 which holds the inhalation article 150 placed in the cavity 122 for the sleeve.

The holder 110 for the inhalation article 150 comprises a casing 111 comprising a casing cavity 112 for receiving the inhalation article 150, and a sleeve 120 configured to hold the inhalation article 150 inside the casing cavity 112. The sleeve 120 extends from the open near end 126 to the opposite far end 124. The sleeve 120 forms a sleeve cavity 122 and is configured to move inside the casing cavity 112 along the longitudinal axis L _A of the casing 111 between the first and second positions.

In these examples, the holder 110 comprises a piercing element 101 rigidly attached to the inner surface 109 of the casing and extending from it. The piercing element 101 is configured to pass through the second opposite end 124 of the sleeve 120 into the sleeve cavity 122 along the longitudinal axis of the casing 111. The holder 110 comprises a spring element 102 configured to shift the sleeve 120 away from the piercing element 101 or in the direction of the open end of the holder 110 in the first position.

The inhalation article 150 comprises a housing 151 which extends along the longitudinal axis L _A of the inhalation article from the mouthpiece end 154 to the distal end 156. The capsule cavity 155 is located inside the housing 151 and is limited further downstream by a filter element 157, and earlier downstream by a tubular element 153 forming a central passage 152. The central passage 152 forms an opening for air inlet, extending from the distal end 156 of the housing in the direction of the capsule cavity 155. The capsule 160 is placed inside the capsule cavity 155. The central passage 152 has a smaller diameter than the capsule 160.

The casing 110 may have a total longitudinal length in the range from about 40 mm to about 60 mm. The sleeve 120 may have a total longitudinal length in the range from about 15 mm to about 30 mm. The spring element 102 may have a total longitudinal length in the range from about 15 mm to about 30 mm. The sleeve 120 may move or be configured to move by a total longitudinal distance in the range from about 15 mm to about 30 mm between the first and second positions. The spring 102 may be compressed by a total longitudinal distance in the range from about 15 mm to about 30 mm.

In the first position, the piercing element 101 does not extend inside the cavity 155 of the capsule, so that the capsule 160 is not pierced when the inhalation article 150 is placed in the sleeve cavity 122, when the sleeve 120 is in the first position. In the second position, the piercing element 101 extends inside the cavity 155 of the capsule, so that the capsule 160 is pierced when the inhalation article 150 is placed in the sleeve cavity 122, when the sleeve 120 is in the second position. The first position can be called the "relaxation position", and the second position can be called the "compression position".

In one embodiment, the inhalation article 150 has a longitudinal length of approximately 45 mm, and the holder 110 has a longitudinal length of from approximately 50 mm to approximately 55 mm. When placed in the holder 110 (and when the sleeve 120 and the spring element 102 are in the weakened position), approximately 50% of the longitudinal length of the inhalation article 150 is located inside the holder 110, and approximately 50% of its longitudinal length projects from the holder 110. In this embodiment, the consumer can force the inhalation article 102 onto the piercing element by compressing the spring element 200, moving the sleeve to the second position and piercing the capsule 160 to activate it. In the second position or compression position, less than about 20% of the longitudinal length of the inhalation article 150 projects from the holder 110, or from about 1 mm to about 5 mm of the longitudinal length of the inhalation article 150 projects from the holder 110. The linear or longitudinal distance between the release and compression positions may be from about 15 mm to about 25 mm, or about 20 mm.

FIG. 4A is a partial isometric view of an exemplary sleeve 120 and follower 170. FIG. 4B is a partial isometric view of an exemplary inhaler system 100 comprising sleeve 120 and follower 170 of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4C is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler system 100 of FIG. 4B. FIGS. 4A-4C are shown by sleeve 120 before insertion of inhaler article 150. FIG. 5A is a partial isometric view of an exemplary inhaler system 100 of FIGS. 4B and 4C. FIG. 5B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler system 100 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5C is a partial perspective view of an exemplary inhaler system 100 of FIGS. 5A and 5B. FIGS. 5A-5C show the inhaler article fully inserted into the sleeve 120, in contact with the follower 170 and thereby moving the follower 170 inside the guide 180. FIGS. 5A-5C show the sleeve 120 in a first position.

The follower element 170 extends from the first end 172 to the second end 174. The follower element 170 is connected to the sleeve 120 at the first end 172. The second end 174 can be called the free end. In this example, the follower element 170 is formed as a single unit with the sleeve 120. However, the follower element 170 can be a separate component that is connected to the sleeve 120, for example, by means of a hinge.

FIG. 4A shows the follower 170 in a neutral position, in which the follower 170 extends axially into the sleeve cavity 122. It is possible to shift the follower 170 in the direction of occupying the neutral position, so that it is possible for the follower 170 to be in the neutral position when the inhalation article 150 is not placed in the sleeve cavity 122. It is possible to prevent the follower 170 from engaging with the guide 180 in the neutral position. In this example, the guide 180 is a channel or groove in the inner surface 113 of the casing 111.

The tracking element 170 is designed with the possibility of coupling with the inhalation article 150 when the inhalation article is placed in the sleeve cavity 122. The possibility of moving or displacing the tracking element 170 by the inhalation article 150 from a neutral position to a position of contact with the guide 180 on the inner surface 113 of the casing 111 is provided. The tracking element 170 is flexible or elastic, so that the tracking element 170 deviates outward with a distance from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve to a position of contact with the guide 180 on the inner surface 113 of the casing 111.

FIG. 6A-6F are schematic views of an exemplary locking mechanism 190 of an exemplary holder 110 of FIG. 1, 2, 4B-4C, and 5A-5C. FIG. 6A is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 190 with the sleeve 120 in the first position prior to activation of the inhaler article 150. FIG. 6B is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 190 with the sleeve 120 moving from the first position to the second position. FIG. 6C is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 190 with the sleeve 120 in the second position. FIG. 6D is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 190 with the sleeve 120 moving from the second position back to the first position. FIG. 6E is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 190 when the sleeve 120 is returned to the first position. FIG. 6F is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 190 when the inhaler article 150 is removed from the sleeve 120.

In FIG. 6A, the inhalation article 150 is placed in the sleeve 120, and the follower 170 is moved into the contact position with the guide 180 and is located in the initial lateral orientation 182. The guide 180 is configured to create an audible indication that the follower 170 has been moved into the contact position with the guide 180. In FIG. 6B, the guide 180 moves the follower 170 (in particular, the second end 174) along the first path when the sleeve 120 is moved from the first position to the second position. When the sleeve 120 is moved from the first position to the second position, the guide 180 moves the follower 170 in the first lateral direction with the distance from the initial lateral orientation 182.

In FIG. 6C, the sleeve 120 is in the second position, and the guide 180 is shaped such that the follower 170 is returned to the original lateral orientation 182. The guide 180 is configured to create an audible sound when the follower 170 returns to the original lateral orientation 182. The audible sound indicates to the consumer that the capsule has been activated.

In FIG. 6D, the guide 180 moves the follower 170 in the second lateral direction when the sleeve 120 moves from the second position back to the first position. The second lateral direction is opposite to the first lateral direction. The guide 180 is configured to move the follower 170 along the second path when the sleeve 120 moves from the second position back to the first position.

In FIG. 6E, the follower has returned to the first position and is now retained in the retaining section 192. The retaining section 192 has a shape that ensures that the follower 170 is retained within the retaining section 192 to resist movement of the sleeve 120 when the follower 170 reaches the retaining section 192. The retaining section 192 comprises a stop surface 194 configured to resist lateral movement of the follower 170. Accordingly, the stop surface 194 prevents the follower 170 from returning to its original lateral orientation 182, which prevents movement of the sleeve 120 after activation of the inhaler article 150.

In FIG. 6F, the inhalation article 150 is removed from the sleeve 120, and the follower 170 has moved from the position of contact with the guide, which allows the sleeve 120 to move. In addition, the follower 170 has returned to the original lateral orientation 182, so that the placement of an inhalation article, such as the inhalation article 150, will result in the placement of the locking mechanism 190 in the position shown in FIG. 6A, and it will be possible to repeat the process with additional inhalation articles.

In this example, the guide 180 is a channel. As shown in the figures, the guide 180 is formed on the inner surface 113 of the casing 111. In this example, the second end 174 of the follower 170 comprises an end interacting element. The second end 174 of the follower 170 is configured to contact the guide 180 when the inhalation article is placed in the sleeve 120. The second end 174 is configured to move along the paths of the guide 180 when the sleeve 120 moves between the first and second positions, while the second end 174 is in contact with the guide 180.

FIG. 7A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary holder 210 without the inhalation article 150 inserted. FIG. 7B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary holder 210 of FIG. 7A without the inhalation article 150 inserted. FIG. 7C is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhalation system 200 comprising an exemplary holder 210 of FIGS. 7A and 7B with the inhalation article 150 that is inserted and pushes the follower 270 into a position of contact with the guide 280.

The follower 270 extends from the first end 272 to the second end 274. The follower 270 is connected to the sleeve 220 at the first end 272 and extends to the second or free end 274. In this example, the follower 270 is formed as a single unit with the sleeve 220. The follower 270 extends in the axial direction inside the cavity 222 when in the neutral position. The follower 270 is offset to the neutral position, so that the follower 270 is in the neutral position when the inhaler article 150 is not placed in the cavity 222 of the sleeve. The follower 270 does not interact with the guide 280 in the neutral position. As shown in the figures, the guide 280 is a protrusion on the inner surface 213 of the casing 211.

The holder 210 comprises a sleeve 220 and a follower 270. In this example, the holder 210 further comprises elongated slots 292 extending along the longitudinal length of the holder 210. The sleeve 220 further comprises alignment pins 291 extending from the outer surface of the sleeve 220. The alignment pins 291 are configured to align with the elongated slots 292. By providing the elongated slots and the corresponding alignment pins 291, an advantage is provided consisting in the direction of longitudinal movement of the sleeve 220 in the cavity 212 of the casing. In particular, said one or more alignment pins 291 prevent the sleeve 220 from rotating in the cavity 212 of the casing.

The follower element 270 is designed with the possibility of coupling with the inhalation article 150 when this inhalation article is placed in the sleeve cavity 222. The inhalation article 150 moves the follower element 270 from the neutral position to the position of contact with the guide 280. The follower element 270 is flexible, so that the follower element 270 deviates outward with a distance from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve to the position of contact with the guide 280.

FIG. 8A-8F are schematic views of an exemplary locking mechanism 290 of an exemplary holder 210 of FIG. 7A-7C. FIG. 8A is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 290 when the sleeve 220 is in a first position prior to activation of the inhaler article 150. FIG. 8B is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 290 when the sleeve 220 is moved from the first position to the second position. FIG. 8C is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 290 when the sleeve 220 is moved to a position immediately prior to the second position. FIG. 8D is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 290 when the sleeve 220 is moved to the second position. FIG. 8E is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 290 when the sleeve 220 is moved from the second position back to the first position. FIG. 8F is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 290 when the sleeve 220 is returned to the first position.

In FIG. 8A, the inhalation article 150 is placed in the sleeve 220, and the follower 270 is moved into the position of contact with the guide 280 and is in the initial lateral orientation 282. The follower 270 is rigidly attached to the sleeve 220 at the first end 272 and extends to the free or second end 274. The guide 280 can be configured to create an audible indication that the follower 270 has been moved into the position of contact with the guide 280.

In FIG. 8B, the guide 280 moves the second end 274 of the follower along the first path or along the edge of the guide 280 when the sleeve 220 moves from the first position to the second position. When the sleeve 220 moves from the first position to the second position, the guide 280 moves the second end 274 of the follower in the first lateral direction away from the initial lateral orientation 282.

In FIG. 8C, the sleeve 220 is moved to a position located immediately before the second position, and the second end 274 is prevented from moving to the original lateral orientation 282 by means of the guide 280. In FIG. 8D, the sleeve 220 is in the second position, and the guide 280 is shaped such that the second end 274 of the follower returns to the original lateral orientation 282. The guide 280 can be configured to create an audible sound when the second end 274 of the follower returns to the original lateral orientation 282. The audible sound is created by the second end 274 of the follower when it passes by the guide 280 or comes off it. The audible sound indicates to the consumer that the capsule is activated.

In FIG. 8E, the guide 280 moves the second end 274 of the follower in the second lateral direction when the sleeve 220 moves from the second position back to the first position. The second lateral direction is opposite to the first lateral direction. The guide 280 is configured to move the second end 274 of the follower along the second path when the sleeve 220 moves from the second position back to the first position.

In FIG. 8F, the follower has returned to the first position and is now in the retaining section 292. The retaining section 292 has a shape that ensures that the second end 274 of the follower is retained within the retaining section 292 to resist movement of the sleeve 220 when the second end 274 of the follower reaches the retaining section 292. The retaining section 292 comprises a stop surface 294 configured to resist lateral movement of the second end 274 of the follower. Accordingly, the stop surface 294 prevents the second end 274 of the follower from returning to the original lateral orientation 282, which prevents movement of the sleeve 220 after activation of the inhaler article 150.

After the inhalation article 150 is removed from the sleeve 220, the second end 274 of the follower is moved from the position of contact with the guide, thus allowing the sleeve 220 to move. In addition, the follower 270 returns to the original lateral orientation 282, so that under the action of the inhalation article, such as the inhalation article 150, the locking mechanism 290 will be located in the position shown in FIG. 8A, and it will be possible to repeat the process with additional inhalation articles.

In this example, the guide 280 comprises a projection. For example, the guide 280 is formed on the inner surface of the holder 210, or the guide 280 is a separate component attached to the inner surface of the holder 210. In this example, the second end 274 of the follower 270 comprises an end interacting element. As shown in the figures, the end interacting element forms a pointed oval shape. This shape provides the possibility of reducing the probability of the end interacting element catching on the surface of the guide 280 and at the same time facilitates its retention in the holding section 292. The second end 274 of the follower 270 is designed with the possibility of contact with the guide 280 when the inhalation product is placed in the sleeve 220. The second end 274 is designed with the possibility of movement along the perimeter of the guide 280 when the sleeve 220 moves between the first and second positions, while the second end 274 is in contact with the guide 280.

FIG. 9A shows a schematic view of first, second, third and fourth portions of an illustrative guide 280, which may be referred to as "edges." The first portion is the first portion of the guide 280 that the follower 270 contacts when it first contacts the guide 280. The second portion is the portion of the guide 280 that the follower 270 contacts after it leaves contact with the first portion of the guide 280. The third portion is the portion of the guide 280 that the follower 270 contacts after it leaves contact with the second portion of the guide 280. The fourth portion is the portion of the guide 280 that the follower 270 contacts after it leaves contact with the third portion of the guide 280 and before it enters into contact with the retaining section.

FIG. 9A shows the activation angle A1 for the follower and the activation distance D1 for the follower. The activation angle A1 is the angle between the first and second sections of the guide 280. The activation distance D1 for the follower is the lateral distance traveled by the follower 270 along the first section.

FIG. 9B shows a schematic view of the illustrative guide 280 of FIG. 9A, including the return angle A2 for the follower and the return distance D2 for the follower. The return angle A2 is the angle between the third and fourth sections of the guide 280. The return distance D2 for the follower is the lateral distance traveled by the follower 270 along the third section.

FIG. 9C shows a schematic view of the illustrative guide 280 of FIG. 9A and 9B, including the retention angle A3 for the follower A3 and the retention distance D3 for the follower. The retention angle A3 for the follower is the angle between the fourth portion and the surface of the retaining section. The retention distance D3 for the follower is the lateral distance traveled by the follower 270 along the surface of the retaining section.

The activation angle A1 is in the range of about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees. Preferably, the activation angle A1 is about 20 degrees. The activation distance D1 is in the range of about 0.5 millimeters to about 2 millimeters. Preferably, the activation distance D1 is about 1.2 millimeters.

The return angle A2 is in the range of about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees. Preferably, the return angle A2 is about 18 degrees. The return distance D2 is in the range of about 1 millimeter to about 3 millimeters. Preferably, the return distance D2 is about 1.8 millimeters.

The holding angle A3 is in the range of about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees. Preferably, the holding angle A3 is about 53 degrees. The holding distance D3 is in the range of about 0.2 millimeters to about 1 millimeter. Preferably, the holding distance D3 is about 0.45 millimeters.

FIG. 10A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative sleeve 220. FIG. 10B shows a schematic perspective view of a second end 274 of the follower 270 of FIG. 10A.

The follower 270 extends between the first end 272 and the second end 274. The follower 270 extends along the axis 276 of the sleeve. The first end 272 can be connected to the sleeve 220 or made as a single unit with it. The second end 274 of the follower 270 comprises an end interacting element 277. As shown, the end interacting element 277 has a pointed oval shape. The pointed oval shape has a main longitudinal axis 278. The distance D4 of the interacting element, which is the distance from the edge of the end interacting element 277 to the axis 276 of the sleeve, can be in the range from about 0.5 millimeters to about 2 millimeters. Preferably, the distance D4 of the interacting element can be about 1 millimeter. The angle A4 of the interacting element, which is the angle by which the longitudinal axis of the interacting element 277 is shifted relative to the axis perpendicular to the length of the follower element 270, may be in the range from approximately 30 degrees to approximately 75 degrees. Preferably, the angle A4 of the interacting element may be approximately 56 degrees.

FIG. 11A-11F are schematic views of an exemplary locking mechanism 390 of an exemplary holder 210 of FIG. 7A-7C. FIG. 11A is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 390 when the sleeve 220 is in a first position prior to activation of the inhaler article 150 (see FIG. 7C). FIG. 11B is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 390 when the sleeve 220 is moved from the first position to the second position. FIG. 11C is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 390 when the sleeve 220 is moved to a position immediately prior to the second position. FIG. 11D is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 390 when the sleeve 220 is moved to the second position. FIG. 11E is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 390 as the sleeve 220 is moved from the second position back to the first position. FIG. 11F is a schematic view of an exemplary locking mechanism 390 as the sleeve 220 is returned to the first position.

In FIG. 11A, the inhalation article 150 (see FIG. 7C) is placed in the sleeve 220, and the follower 270 is moved into a position of contact with the guide 380 and is located in an initial lateral orientation 282. The follower 270 is rigidly attached to the sleeve 220 at the first end 272 and extends to the free or second end 274. The guide 380 can be configured to create an audible indication that the follower 270 has been moved into a position of contact with the guide 380.

In FIG. 11B, the guide 380 moves or deflects the second end 274 of the follower along the first path or edge of the guide 380 when the sleeve 220 moves from the first position to the second position. When the sleeve 220 moves from the first position to the second position, the guide 380 moves the second end 274 of the follower in the first lateral direction away from the initial lateral orientation 282.

In FIG. 11C, the sleeve 220 is moved to a position located immediately before the second position, and the second end 274 of the follower is prevented from moving to the original lateral orientation 282 by means of the guide 380. In FIG. 11D, the sleeve 220 is in the second position, and the guide 380 is shaped such that the second end 274 of the follower returns to the original lateral orientation 282. The guide 380 can be configured to create an audible sound when the second end 274 of the follower returns to the original lateral orientation 282. The audible sound is created by the second end 274 of the follower when passing by the guide 380 or leaving it. The audible sound indicates to the consumer that the capsule is activated.

In FIG. 11E, the guide 380 moves or deflects the second end 274 of the follower in a second lateral direction when the sleeve 220 moves from the second position back to the first position. The second lateral direction is opposite to the first lateral direction. The guide 380 is configured to move the second end 274 of the follower along the second path when the sleeve 220 moves from the second position back to the first position.

In FIG. 11F, the follower has returned to the first position and is now in the retaining section 292. The retaining section 292 has a shape that ensures that the second end 274 of the follower is retained within the retaining section 292 to resist movement of the sleeve 220 when the second end 274 of the follower reaches the retaining section 292. The retaining section 292 comprises a stop surface 294 configured to resist lateral movement of the second end 274 of the follower. Accordingly, the stop surface 294 prevents the second end 274 of the follower from returning to the original lateral orientation 282, which prevents movement of the sleeve 220 after activation of the inhaler article 150.

After the inhalation article 150 is removed from the sleeve 220, the second end 274 of the follower is moved from the position of contact with the guide, thus allowing the sleeve 220 to move. In addition, the follower 270 returns to the original lateral orientation 282, so that the placement of an inhalation article, such as the inhalation article 150, will result in the placement of the locking mechanism 390 in the position shown in FIG. 11A, and it will be possible to repeat the process with additional inhalation articles.

In this example, the guide 380 comprises a projection. For example, the guide 380 is formed on the inner surface of the holder 210, or the guide 380 is a separate component attached to the inner surface of the holder 210. In this example, the second end 274 of the follower 270 comprises an end interacting element 377. As shown in the figures, the end interacting element 377 forms a quadrangular shape. This shape provides the possibility of reducing the probability of the end interacting element catching on the surface of the guide 280, while simultaneously facilitating retention in the holding section 292. The second end 274 of the follower 270 is designed with the possibility of contact with the guide 380 when the inhaler article is placed in the sleeve 220. The second end 274 is designed with the possibility of movement along the perimeter of the guide 380 when the sleeve 220 moves between the first and second positions, while the second end 274 is in contact with the guide 380.

FIG. 12A shows a schematic view of first, second, third and fourth portions of an illustrative guide 380, which may be referred to as "edges." The first portion is the first portion of the guide 380 that the follower 270 contacts during its first contact with the guide 380. The second portion is the portion of the guide 380 that the follower 270 contacts after it has left contact with the first portion of the guide 380. The third portion is the portion of the guide 380 that the follower 270 contacts after it has left contact with the second portion of the guide 380. The fourth portion is the portion of the guide 380 that the follower 270 contacts after it has left contact with the third portion of the guide 380 and before it makes contact with the retaining section.

FIG. 12A shows the activation angle A1 for the follower and the activation distance D1 for the follower. The activation angle A1 is the angle between the first and second sections of the guide 380. The activation distance D1 for the follower is the lateral distance traveled by the follower 270 along the first section.

FIG. 12B shows a schematic view of the illustrative guide 380 of FIG. 12A, including the return angle A2 for the follower and the return distance D2 for the follower D2. The return angle A2 is the angle between the third and fourth sections of the guide 380. The return distance D2 for the follower is the lateral distance traveled by the follower 270 along the third section.

FIG. 12C shows a schematic view of the illustrative guide 380 of FIG. 12A and 12B, including the retention angle A3 for the follower and the retention distance D3 for the follower. The retention angle A3 for the follower is the angle between the fourth portion and the surface of the retaining section. The retention distance D3 for the follower is the lateral distance traveled by the follower 270 along the surface of the retaining section.

The activation angle A1 is in the range of about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees. Preferably, the activation angle A1 is about 15 degrees. The activation distance D1 is in the range of about 0.5 millimeters to about 2 millimeters. Preferably, the activation distance D1 is about 1.2 millimeters.

The return angle A2 is in the range of about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees. Preferably, the return angle A2 is about 15 degrees. The return distance D2 is in the range of about 1 millimeter to about 3 millimeters. Preferably, the return distance D2 is about 1.7 millimeters.

The holding angle A3 is in the range of about 10 degrees to about 90 degrees. Preferably, the holding angle A3 is about 65-70 degrees. The holding distance D3 is in the range of about 0.2 millimeters to about 1 millimeter. Preferably, the holding distance D3 is about 0.45 millimeters.

FIG. 13A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an illustrative sleeve 220. FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a second end 274 of the follower 270 of FIG. 13A.

The follower 270 extends between the first end 272 and the second end 274. The follower 270 extends along the axis of the sleeve. The first end 272 can be connected to the sleeve 220 or made as a single unit with it. The second end 274 of the follower 270 comprises an element 377 for engaging the tip. As shown in the figures, the end interacting element 377 has a quadrangular shape. The quadrangular shape has a main longitudinal axis 278. The angle A4 of the interacting element, which is the angle by which the longitudinal axis of the interacting element 277 is shifted relative to the axis perpendicular to the length of the follower 270, can be in the range from approximately 0 degrees to approximately 45 degrees. Preferably, the angle A4 of the interacting element can be approximately 10 to 15 degrees.

Claims (20)

1. A holder for an inhalation product to prevent reactivation thereof when the inhalation product is inserted into the holder for use, comprising: a sleeve located in the cavity of the casing and containing a sleeve cavity configured to receive an inhalation product, wherein the sleeve is configured to move within said cavity of the casing between a first position and a second position; a piercing element configured to pierce the inhalation device located in the sleeve when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position; and a locking mechanism comprising a guide, a follower element connected to the sleeve, and a retaining section; wherein the follower element is configured to move along the guide inside the holding section when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position; and the holding section is designed with the possibility of holding the tracking element when the sleeve returns back to the first position, thus holding the sleeve in the first position, wherein the tracking element is designed with the possibility of being in a neutral position, in which the tracking element is free from coupling with the guide in the absence of the inhalation product inside the sleeve cavity. 2. The holder according to claim 1, in which the tracking element is designed with the possibility of movement relative to the sleeve, and wherein the tracking element is designed with the possibility of coupling with the inhalation product when the inhalation product is inserted into the sleeve cavity in such a way that the inhalation product moves the tracking element from a neutral position to a position of contact with the guide. 3. A holder according to any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the follower element is designed to pass inside the sleeve cavity in a neutral position. 4. The holder according to claim 3, in which the tracking element is flexible, so that the tracking element is designed with the possibility of deviating outward from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve into a position of contact with the guide when the inhalation product is placed in the sleeve cavity. 5. A holder according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the follower is biased in the direction of the neutral position such that the follower is designed to move from the position of contact with the guide or with the holding section when the inhalation article is removed from the sleeve. 6. A holder according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the guide is configured to move the follower in a first lateral direction from the initial lateral orientation when the sleeve is moved from the first position to the second position. 7. The holder according to claim 6, in which the follower element is offset in the direction of the initial lateral orientation; and wherein the guide has such a shape that the follower element is designed with the possibility of returning to the original lateral orientation when the sleeve is in the second position. 8. The holder according to claim 7, wherein the tracking element and the guide are designed with the possibility of creating a sound when the tracking element returns to its original lateral orientation. 9. A holder according to any one of paragraphs 6-8, in which the guide is configured to move the follower in the second lateral direction by means of the guide when the sleeve is moved from the second position back to the first position. 10. A holder according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the holding section has a shape adapted to ensure that the follower is retained within the holding section to resist movement of the cartridge when the follower reaches the holding section. 11. A holder according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the follower element is an elongated element connected to the sleeve. 12. The holder according to item 11, in which the elongated element is made as a single piece with the sleeve. 13. A holder according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the guide comprises a projection. 14. A holder according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the guide comprises a channel.