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WO2025068695A1 - Inhalateur - Google Patents

Inhalateur Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2025068695A1
WO2025068695A1 PCT/GB2024/052472 GB2024052472W WO2025068695A1 WO 2025068695 A1 WO2025068695 A1 WO 2025068695A1 GB 2024052472 W GB2024052472 W GB 2024052472W WO 2025068695 A1 WO2025068695 A1 WO 2025068695A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
pathway
cover
opening
nozzle
inhaler
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/GB2024/052472
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Stephen John Marshall
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
3D Engineering Design Ltd
Original Assignee
3D Engineering Design Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by 3D Engineering Design Ltd filed Critical 3D Engineering Design Ltd
Publication of WO2025068695A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025068695A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/009—Inhalators using medicine packages with incorporated spraying means, e.g. aerosol cans
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/02—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using physical phenomena
    • A61L2/08—Radiation
    • A61L2/10—Ultraviolet radiation
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61L—METHODS OR APPARATUS FOR STERILISING MATERIALS OR OBJECTS IN GENERAL; DISINFECTION, STERILISATION OR DEODORISATION OF AIR; CHEMICAL ASPECTS OF BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES; MATERIALS FOR BANDAGES, DRESSINGS, ABSORBENT PADS OR SURGICAL ARTICLES
    • A61L2/00—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor
    • A61L2/16—Methods or apparatus for disinfecting or sterilising materials or objects other than foodstuffs or contact lenses; Accessories therefor using chemical substances
    • A61L2/18—Liquid substances or solutions comprising solids or dissolved gases
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/0001—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M15/00—Inhalators
    • A61M15/0001—Details of inhalators; Constructional features thereof
    • A61M15/0021—Mouthpieces therefor
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M16/00—Devices for influencing the respiratory system of patients by gas treatment, e.g. ventilators; Tracheal tubes
    • A61M16/0003—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure
    • A61M2016/0015—Accessories therefor, e.g. sensors, vibrators, negative pressure inhalation detectors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/02—General characteristics of the apparatus characterised by a particular materials
    • A61M2205/0205—Materials having antiseptic or antimicrobial properties, e.g. silver compounds, rubber with sterilising agent
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/10—General characteristics of the apparatus with powered movement mechanisms
    • A61M2205/106—General characteristics of the apparatus with powered movement mechanisms reciprocating
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/50—General characteristics of the apparatus with microprocessors or computers
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2205/00—General characteristics of the apparatus
    • A61M2205/82—Internal energy supply devices
    • A61M2205/8206—Internal energy supply devices battery-operated
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61M—DEVICES FOR INTRODUCING MEDIA INTO, OR ONTO, THE BODY; DEVICES FOR TRANSDUCING BODY MEDIA OR FOR TAKING MEDIA FROM THE BODY; DEVICES FOR PRODUCING OR ENDING SLEEP OR STUPOR
    • A61M2230/00—Measuring parameters of the user
    • A61M2230/40—Respiratory characteristics

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to inhalers.
  • the present invention relates to inhalers for multiple use.
  • Inhalers for delivering a dose of medicament to a user to alleviate symptoms of a condition are known, e.g., for asthma.
  • users can often find it difficult to use inhalers effectively.
  • correct breathing when using an inhaler can often be difficult for a user to master to ensure that medicament is effectively administered to a user.
  • Inhalers are also commonly designed such that once all of a medicament from a canister of the inhaler is dispensed the inhaler is discarded and replaced. Therefore, to reduce wastage and improve quality of the inhaler, it is advantageous for inhalers to be designed to have replaceable containers, e.g., canisters or dry powder packaging I blister packs. An issue with this is that debris and microbes can build up on the inhaler with use which is clearly undesirable.
  • the present invention seeks to ameliorate one or more of the above problems.
  • an inhaler including: a main body; a chamber for receipt of a medicament; a pathway into which medicament may be dispensed; a pathway opening operably connected to the pathway through which a user may inhale a medicament or exhale; a nozzle for dispensing the medicament into the pathway, said nozzle including a nozzle opening through which the medicament is dispensed; and a cover for covering the nozzle opening; wherein the cover is movable from a first position for covering the nozzle opening, to a second position for permitting the medicament to be dispensed; wherein the cover is movable to the first position by force exerted on the cover by exhalation of the user; and I or wherein the cover is movable to the second position by force exerted on the cover by inhalation of the user.
  • the cover may be biased to adopt the second position.
  • the cover may be movable to a third position between the first and second positions, wherein the cover may be biased to adopt the third position.
  • the cover may be positioned in the pathway.
  • the cover When the cover moves towards the first position the cover may move towards the nozzle and/or away from pathway opening.
  • the cover When the cover moves towards the second position the cover may move away from the nozzle and/or towards the pathway opening.
  • the cover may be pivotably and/or rotatably movable between the first and second positions.
  • the cover In the first position the cover may be positioned directly adjacent the nozzle opening.
  • the cover may include a cover portion for covering the nozzle opening, wherein the cover portion may be positioned between the nozzle opening and the pathway opening.
  • the cover portion may be generally monoclastic.
  • the cover portion may be shaped like an outer surface of a portion of a parabolic cylinder.
  • the cover portion and nozzle may define first and second respective portions of a generally oval, elliptical or stadium shape in plan view.
  • the nozzle and cover portion may be positioned generally centrally in the pathway, e.g., between first and second sides of the pathway.
  • the cover may include an actuation portion for actuating movement of the cover towards the first and/or second position.
  • the actuation portion In the first position the actuation portion may be positioned generally parallel to an elongate axis of the pathway adjacent a side of the nozzle.
  • the actuation portion may extend at an angle away from the cover portion.
  • the actuation portion may extend in a direction generally orthogonal to the cover portion away from the cover portion.
  • the actuation portion may have a greater surface area than the cover portion.
  • the actuation portion may be generally planar.
  • the pathway may include an actuation portion recess.
  • the actuation portion may be received in the actuation portion recess in the first position.
  • the actuation portion and cover portion may have first and second respective ends.
  • the first ends may be positioned generally adjacent each other.
  • the cover may define an axis A which extends generally across the pathway.
  • the cover may be movable with respect to the axis A between the first and second positions.
  • the axis A may be positioned in a top half of the pathway.
  • the axis A may be positioned adjacent a top of the pathway.
  • the cover may be pivotable I rotatable about the axis A.
  • the pathway may define a generally elongate axis B.
  • the axis A may be generally orthogonal to the axis B.
  • the respective first ends of the actuation portion and cover portion may be positioned on the axis A.
  • the inhaler may include a further actuation portion.
  • the further actuation portion may be for actuating movement of the cover towards the first and/or second position.
  • the further actuation portion may be positioned generally parallel to an elongate axis of the pathway adjacent a side of the nozzle.
  • the further actuation portion may extend at an angle away from the cover portion.
  • the further actuation portion may extend in a direction generally orthogonal to the cover portion away from the cover portion.
  • the further actuation portion may have a greater surface area than the cover portion.
  • the further actuation portion may be generally planar.
  • the pathway may include a further actuation portion recess.
  • the further actuation portion may be received in the further actuation portion recess in the first position.
  • the further actuation portion and cover portion have first and second respective ends.
  • the first ends may be positioned generally adjacent each other.
  • the respective first ends of the further actuation portion and cover portion may be positioned on the axis A.
  • the first end of the cover portion may be positioned between the respective first ends of the actuation portion and further actuation portion.
  • the actuation portion and further actuation portion may be substantially coplanar.
  • the cover may include a connection portion for connection to the main body.
  • the main body may include a connection recess for receiving the connection portion.
  • the cover may include a further connection portion for connection to the main body.
  • the main body may include a further connection recess for receiving the further connection portion.
  • connection portion and further connection portion may be substantially coaxial.
  • connection portion may be positioned on the axis A.
  • the further connection portion may be positioned on the axis A.
  • the inhaler may include a spirometry sensor, e.g., a pressure or flow sensor, fluidly connected to the pathway.
  • a spirometry sensor e.g., a pressure or flow sensor
  • the spirometry sensor may be fluidly connected to a bottom of the pathway.
  • the spirometry sensor may be fluidly connected to a top of the pathway.
  • the spirometry sensor may be fluidly connected to a side of the pathway.
  • the spirometry sensor may be fluidly connected to the pathway at a position further away from the pathway opening than the nozzle.
  • the spirometry sensor may be fluidly connected to the pathway at a position closer to the pathway opening than the nozzle.
  • an inhaler including: a main body; a chamber for receipt of a medicament; a pathway into which medicament may be dispensed; a pathway opening operably connected to the pathway through which a user may inhale a medicament or exhale; and a nozzle for dispensing the medicament into the pathway, said nozzle including a nozzle opening through which the medicament is dispensed; wherein the pathway and I or the nozzle includes an anti-microbial device for removing and I or inhibiting microbes from accumulating in the pathway and I or on the nozzle.
  • the anti-microbial device may include one or more surfaces of the pathway I nozzle being formed from an anti-microbial material, e.g., material including copper, denticles, placoid scales, dermal denticles, nanopillars or cicada wing material.
  • an anti-microbial material e.g., material including copper, denticles, placoid scales, dermal denticles, nanopillars or cicada wing material.
  • the one or more surfaces of the pathway / nozzle may be formed from or coated with a super hydrophobic material.
  • the anti-microbial device may include the pathway including ultra-violet (UV) light sources, e.g., LEDs, operably connected to the pathway to irradiate surfaces thereof.
  • the anti-microbial device may include a cleaning solution, e.g., provided in a container, for example a canister or packaging such as a blister pack, receivable in the chamber which may be dispensed for cleaning the nozzle and pathway.
  • the inhaler may include a pathway opening cover for covering the pathway opening.
  • the inhaler according to the second aspect of the invention may include one or more or all the features of the inhaler according to the first aspect of the invention.
  • an inhaler including: a main body; a chamber for receipt of a medicament; a pathway into which medicament may be dispensed, said pathway including a first pathway portion and a second pathway portion; wherein the second pathway portion is inclined at an angle to the first pathway portion and is operably connected to the first pathway portion; wherein the pathway includes a first pathway opening operably connected to the first pathway portion through which a user may inhale a medicament or exhale; and wherein the pathway includes a second pathway opening operably connected to the second pathway portion through which air may pass, in use; further including a nozzle for dispensing the medicament into the pathway, said nozzle including a nozzle opening through which the medicament is dispensed.
  • the nozzle may be positioned in the first pathway portion.
  • the second pathway portion may extend generally away from the first pathway portion.
  • the inhaler may include a front and a rear.
  • the first pathway opening may be positioned at the front.
  • the second pathway portion may extend at least partially along the rear of the inhaler.
  • the first pathway portion may extend between the front and rear, optionally along a bottom of the inhaler.
  • the inhaler may include a third pathway portion for connecting the first pathway portion to the second pathway portion.
  • the third pathway portion may be generally curvilinear and / or arcuate.
  • the third pathway portion may decrease in cross-sectional area, and / or taper, as the third pathway portion extends from the first pathway portion to the second pathway portion.
  • the third pathway portion may have a constant cross-sectional area as the third pathway portion extends from the first pathway portion to the second pathway portion.
  • the second pathway opening may be positioned generally above the third pathway portion.
  • the inhaler may include a fourth pathway portion for connecting the first pathway portion to the first pathway opening.
  • the fourth pathway portion may be inclined at an angle to the first pathway portion.
  • the first pathway portion may be generally orthogonal to the second pathway portion.
  • the second pathway opening may be positioned at or near a top of the inhaler.
  • the second pathway opening may be positioned at or near a bottom of the inhaler.
  • the second pathway opening may be positioned in a first or second side of the inhaler.
  • the second pathway opening may be positioned in a rear wall of the inhaler.
  • the second pathway opening may be covered by a grill.
  • the second pathway portion may define a generally elongate axis S’.
  • the second pathway opening may be inclined at an angle to the axis S’; optionally wherein the angle may be less than 90 degrees.
  • the inhaler may include a plurality of second pathway openings, each operably connected to the second pathway portion.
  • the inhaler may include a further second pathway opening and a further second pathway portion.
  • the second pathway portion and further second pathway portion may be each operably connected to the first pathway portion.
  • the further second pathway opening may be operably connected to the further second pathway portion.
  • the further second pathway portion and further second pathway opening may include one or more or all the features of the second pathway portion and second pathway opening as set forth in the statements above.
  • the inhaler according to the third aspect of the invention may include one or more or all the features of the inhaler according to the first and I or second aspects of the invention.
  • FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of an inhaler in accordance with the present disclosure
  • FIGURE 2 is cutaway view of figure 1 along a generally vertical plane
  • FIGURE 3(a) is a perspective cutaway view of the pathway of the inhaler in figure 1 with the cover in a second position;
  • FIGURE 3(b) is a perspective cutaway view of the pathway of the inhaler in figure 1 with the cover in a first position;
  • FIGURE 4 is a side view of the inhaler of figure 1 with an external portion of the main body removed;
  • FIGURE 5(a) is a side view of figure 3(a);
  • FIGURE 5(b) is a side view of figure 3(b);
  • FIGURE 6(a) is a front view of figure 3(a);
  • FIGURE 6(b) is a front view of figure 3(b);
  • FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of the cover;
  • FIGURE 8 is a side view of figure 7;
  • FIGURE 9 is a front view of figure 7;
  • FIGURE 10 is a further perspective cutaway view of the pathway of figure 1 ;
  • FIGURE 11 (a) is an enlarged view of a surface of the pathway of figure 10;
  • FIGURE 11 (b) is an enlarged view of an additional surface of the pathway of figure 10;
  • FIGURE 12 is a further perspective cutaway view of the pathway of figure 1 ;
  • FIGURE 13(a) is a perspective view of a canister being ejected from the inhaler
  • FIGURE 13(b) is a perspective view of a canister being inserted into the inhaler
  • FIGURE 13(c) is a perspective view of a canister being used in the inhaler
  • FIGURE 14 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of an inhaler according to the present disclosure.
  • FIGURE 15 is a rear cross-sectional view of the inhaler of figure 14.
  • FIGURE 16 is a top view of the inhaler of figure 14.
  • the inhaler 10 includes a main body 12.
  • the main body 12 may include a front 120, a rear 122, first and second respective sides, 124, 126 and a top and a bottom 128, 130.
  • the rear 122 and the top 128 may be connected by a generally curved surface 132 which extends therebetween.
  • the rear 122 and the bottom 130 may be connected by a further generally curved surface 134 which extends therebetween. These may be advantageous in improving the ergonomics of the inhaler 10 and its ease of manufacture.
  • the inhaler may be a pressured metered dose inhaler (pMDI).
  • the inhaler may be a dry powder inhaler (DPI).
  • the inhaler includes a chamber 14 for receipt of a medicament (see figure 2).
  • the chamber may be defined at least partially by the main body 12.
  • the chamber 14 may be configured to receive a container 16 containing medicament.
  • the container may be a canister 16.
  • the canister 16 may contain pressurised medicament.
  • the container may be packaging such as a blister pack or other packaging for receipt of a dry powder.
  • the canister 16 may be replaceable, e.g., if the medicament has been used or if a different medicament or product is required.
  • the chamber may include a device (not shown) to eject the canister 16 once it is empty or no longer required. A new canister may then be inserted into the chamber 14.
  • the chamber 14 may be configured to be directly filled with a medicament, e.g., without a canister.
  • the inhaler 10 may include electronics to assist a user in effectively administering a dose of medicament.
  • the inhaler 10 may therefore be switched off and on as required.
  • a button 30 on the inhaler may be pressed for a predetermined period of time, e.g., 3 seconds, to switch on the inhaler and I or switch off the inhaler 10.
  • the inhaler 10 may include a battery 70 which may be rechargeable.
  • the battery 70 may be positioned adjacent the bottom 130 of the main body 12.
  • the inhaler 10 may include a screen 60 to display information about the inhaler 10 to a user.
  • the screen 60 may show how many doses are remaining in a canister, the number of doses administered, time since last use, the percentage of battery charge remaining, time until the inhaler needs to be cleaned, etc.
  • the screen 60 may be positioned on the front 120 of the main body 12.
  • the screen 60 may be generally rectangular.
  • the button 30 may be positioned below the screen 60.
  • the button 30 may be positioned on the front 120 of the main body 12.
  • the inhaler 10 may include first and second respective modes. In a first mode, the inhaler 10 may be in a “dispensing” mode to dispense medicament to a user. In a second mode, the inhaler 10 may be in a “spirometry” mode to permit a user to measure the volume and I or speed (flow) of air that can be inhaled or exhaled by the user.
  • the inhaler 10 may include a spirometry sensor 1000 to permit spirometry readings to be taken in the “spirometry” mode. The spirometry sensor 1000 is described in more detail below.
  • the chamber 14 may be covered by a chamber cover / lid 18. In embodiments, the chamber may not be covered by a chamber cover I lid 18.
  • the lid 18 may be movably connected to the main body 12 to permit the lid 18 to move between open and closed conditions. The lid 18 may be biased to adopt the open condition.
  • the lid 18 may be pivotally connected to the main body 12. In embodiments, the lid 18 may be slidably or rotatably connected to the main body 12 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the lid may be provided with a latch (not shown) which latches to a portion of the main body 12 to hold the lid 18 in a closed condition.
  • the latch may be user operable so a user may replace a canister when desired.
  • the button 30 or a further button may operate the latch to cause the lid 18 to adopt the open condition.
  • the inhaler 10 may include a controller 20 which may control the lid 18.
  • the controller 20 may control the latch to cause the lid 18 to adopt the open condition if a predetermined criterion is met, e.g., the canister is empty, a predetermined number of doses or volume of medicament has been administered from the canister, a predetermined time period has elapsed.
  • the lid 18 may be substantially circular in plan view. In embodiments, the lid 18 may be square or rectangular or any other polygonal shape without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the inhaler 10 may include a mouthpiece 40 which in use may be received in a user’s mouth.
  • the mouthpiece 40 may be positioned at a bottom of the main body 12, e.g., opposite the lid 18. In embodiments, the mouthpiece 40 may be positioned at a top or generally centrally of the main body 12 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the mouthpiece 40 may extend generally away from the main body 12.
  • the mouthpiece 30 may extend generally away from the front 120 of the main body 12.
  • the mouthpiece 40 may extend generally linearly away from the main body 12, or the front 120 of the main body 12.
  • the mouthpiece 40 may extend away from the main body 12 at an angle generally inclined to the main body 12, e.g., the front 120 of the main body 12. In embodiments, the mouthpiece may extend generally orthogonally away from the main body 12, or the front 120 of the main body 12.
  • the mouthpiece may be generally oval, elliptical or stadium shaped in cross-section. This has been found to be advantageous for a user to effectively seal their mouth against the mouthpiece 40 and therefore effectively administer a dispensed dose of medicament to the user.
  • the mouthpiece may be triangular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, octagonal, circular or another polygonal shape in cross-section without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the inhaler may include a pathway opening cover, or mouthpiece cover 400.
  • the mouthpiece cover 400 may extend over at least a portion, and preferably all, the mouthpiece 40 to cover the mouthpiece 40.
  • the mouthpiece cover 400 may be a complementary shape to the mouthpiece 40 to cover the mouthpiece 40.
  • the mouthpiece cover 400 may taper as it extends away from the main body 12 over the mouthpiece 40.
  • the mouthpiece cover 400 may be pivotably attached to the main body 12 at a pivot point 402.
  • the pivot point 402 may be positioned adjacent the bottom 130 of the main body 12.
  • the mouthpiece cover 400 may be movably attached in other or additional ways to the main body 12, e.g., slidably attached, rotatably attached.
  • the mouthpiece cover 400 may be removable from the main body 12.
  • the mouthpiece cover 400 may be movable between an open condition in which a user may use the mouthpiece 40 and a closed condition in which a user is prevented from using the mouthpiece 40.
  • the mouthpiece cover 400 may be used instead of the button 30 to switch on the inhaler 10.
  • the inhaler 10 includes a pathway 50 into which medicament may be dispensed (shown in figure 2).
  • the pathway 50 may extend along the main body 12 adjacent the bottom 130 of the inhaler 10. In embodiments, this may not be the case.
  • the pathway 50 may be positioned below the chamber 14 and I or above the battery 70.
  • the pathway 50 may extend generally linearly within the main body 12. In embodiments this may not be the case.
  • the pathway 50 includes a (first) pathway opening 502 operably connected to the pathway 50 through which a user may inhale a medicament or exhale.
  • the pathway 50 may extend into the mouthpiece 40.
  • the mouthpiece 40 may define at least a portion of the pathway 50.
  • the pathway opening 502 may be defined by the mouthpiece 40.
  • the pathway 50 may have a second pathway opening 504 which may act as an exhaust during exhalation or an inlet during inhalation.
  • the second pathway opening 504 may be covered by a grill or vent 506.
  • the grill or vent 506 may be positioned in, or be defined by, the rear 122 of the main body 12.
  • the pathway 50 and I or the pathway opening 502 and I or the second pathway opening 504 may be complementary in shape to the mouthpiece 40.
  • the pathway 50 and I or the pathway opening 502 and I or the second pathway opening 504 may be generally oval, elliptical or stadium shaped in cross-section and / or rectangular and / or square and / or circular without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the pathway 50 and I or the pathway opening 502 and I or the second pathway opening 504 may be different shapes without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the pathway 50 may taper as it extends away from the first pathway opening 502.
  • the pathway 50 may taper as it extends toward the first pathway opening 502.
  • the pathway 50 may stay the same size and I or shape as it extends towards I away from the first pathway opening 502.
  • the pathway 50 may have, or define, a generally elongate axis B (shown in figure 4).
  • the axis B may extend between the first and second pathway openings 502, 504.
  • the axis B may extend in a direction generally parallel to the bottom and I or top 128, 130 of the main body 12 and I or orthogonal to a nozzle 80 of the inhaler 10 (described below).
  • the inhaler includes a nozzle 80 for dispensing the medicament into the pathway 50 (see figures 2 to 6).
  • the nozzle 80 includes a nozzle opening 802 through which the medicament is dispensed.
  • the nozzle 80 may extend between a top and bottom of the pathway 50.
  • the nozzle 80 may extend generally vertically between the top and bottom of the pathway 50, e.g., in a direction substantially orthogonal to the top and bottom of the pathway 50.
  • the nozzle 80 may extend between the top and bottom of the pathway 50 in a direction which is not orthogonal without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, e.g., the nozzle 80 may extend forwardly and I or rearwardly and I or to the first and I or second side as it extends downwardly.
  • the nozzle 80 may extend downwardly from the top of the pathway 50 and a space may be defined between the nozzle 80 and the bottom of the pathway 50.
  • the nozzle 80 may be at least partially oval, elliptical or stadium shaped in plan view. In embodiments, the nozzle 80 may be other shapes in plan view without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the nozzle 80 and / or the nozzle opening 802 may be positioned generally centrally within the pathway 50.
  • the nozzle 80 and I or the nozzle opening 802 may be positioned partway, or substantially midway, between first and second respective sides 506, 508 of the pathway 50 and I or first and second sides 124, 126 of the main body 12.
  • the nozzle 80 and I or the nozzle opening 802 may be positioned closer to the first or second side 506, 508 and / or the first or second sides 124, 126 of the main body 12 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the nozzle 80 and I or the nozzle opening 802 may be positioned partway, or substantially midway, between the first and second pathway openings 502, 504 of the pathway 50 and I or the front and rear 120, 122 of the main body 12. In embodiments, the nozzle 80 and I or the nozzle opening 802 may be positioned closer to the first or second pathway opening 502, 504 and I or the front or rear 120, 122 of the main body 12 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the inhaler 10 includes a cover 90 for covering the nozzle opening 802.
  • the cover 90 is movable from a first position for covering the nozzle opening 802, to a second position for permitting the medicament to be dispensed.
  • An embodiment of a cover 90 is shown in isolation in figures 7 to 9.
  • the cover 90 may include a cover portion 902.
  • the cover portion 902 in use, may cover a portion of the nozzle 80 and I or the nozzle opening 802. This may be useful in preventing microbes from entering the nozzle opening 802 and ensuring efficient and complete dispensation of a dosage of medicament from the nozzle opening 802.
  • the cover portion 902 may be generally monoclastic or may be shaped like an outer surface of a portion of a parabolic cylinder. This may be advantageous when using the inhaler 10 in “spirometry” mode in ensuring a smooth laminar flow of breath over the nozzle 80 and cover 90, thus providing an accurate measurement.
  • the cover portion may be generally planar, or another curvilinear surface without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the cover portion 902 and nozzle 80 may define first and second respective portions of a generally oval, elliptical or stadium shape in plan view. This may be advantageous when using the inhaler 10 in “spirometry” mode in ensuring a smooth laminar flow of breath over the nozzle 80 and cover 90, thus providing an accurate measurement. In embodiments, this may not be the case.
  • the cover portion 902 and nozzle 80 may collectively define rectangular, square or other shapes in plan view without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the cover 90 may include an actuation portion 904 and may further include a further actuation portion 906, or may include first and second actuation portions 904, 906. In embodiments, only a single actuation portion may be provided. In embodiments, three or more actuation portions may be provided.
  • the actuation portions 904, 906 may be for actuating movement of the cover 90 and I or the cover portion 902 towards the first and I or second position.
  • the actuation portion(s) may be for actuating movement of the cover 90. This actuation may be caused by a user exerting, or directly exerting, a force on the actuation portions 904, 906 through inhalation or exhalation of the user.
  • the actuation portions 904, 906 may actuate the cover 90 by a user’s inhalation or exhalation causing a pressure difference to be produced between first and second respective sides of the actuation portions, i.e., the first side positioned closer the first pathway opening 502 and the second side positioned closer the second pathway opening 504.
  • the pressure difference may cause the actuation portions 904, 906 to move and thus cause the cover portion 902 to move between the first and second positions.
  • This may be advantageous as it permits a cover to be used to cover the nozzle opening without the need for a motor to be used.
  • This design of cover also permits a more compact and I or simpler inhaler to be constructed whilst providing the same effect of covering the nozzle opening when needed.
  • the actuation portions 904, 906 may be positioned to first and second respective sides of the cover portion 902, as shown in figure 7.
  • the actuation portions 904, 906 and cover portion 902 may have first and second respective ends.
  • the first ends may be positioned generally adjacent each other.
  • the first end of the cover portion 902 may be positioned between the respective first ends of the actuation portions 904, 906.
  • the actuation portions 904, 906 may be generally planar.
  • the actuation portions 904, 906 may be concave or convex or another non-planar shape without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the actuation portions 904, 906 may be substantially coplanar, or coplanar. In embodiments the actuation portions 904, 906 may not be coplanar, e.g., the first actuation portion 904 may be inclined at an angle to the second actuation portion 906.
  • the actuation portions 904, 906 may be generally rectangular in front view, as shown in figure 9. In embodiments, the actuation portions 904, 906 may be square, triangular, circular, oval or any other polygonal shape without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the first actuation portion 904 and the second actuation portion 906 may be substantially the same shape, or the first actuation portion 904 may be a mirror image of the second actuation portion 906. In embodiments, the first and second actuation portions 904, 906 may differ in shape.
  • the or each actuation portion 904, 906 may extend at an angle away from the cover portion 902.
  • each actuation portion 904, 906 may extend in a direction generally orthogonal to the cover portion 902 away from the cover portion 902 (as exemplified in figure 7). This may be advantageous in ensuring the cover portion 902 is in the first and I or second position when required.
  • the or each actuation portion 904, 906 may have first and second respective sides 9040, 9042, 9060, 9062.
  • the respective first sides 9040, 9060 may be positioned closer to the first pathway opening 502 than the respective second sides 9042, 9062 of the actuation portions 904, 906.
  • the respective second sides 9042, 9062 may be positioned closer to the second pathway opening 504 than the respective first sides 9040, 9060 of the actuation portions 904, 906.
  • the cover portion 902 may also have first and second respective sides 9020, 9022.
  • the first side 9020 of the cover portion 902 may be positioned closer to the first pathway opening 502 than the second side 9022.
  • the second side 9022 of the cover portion 902 may be positioned closer to the second pathway opening 504 than the first side 9020.
  • Each of the respective first and second sides of the cover portion 902 and actuation portions 904, 906 may have a cross-sectional area or surface area associated with them.
  • the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9040 of the first actuation portion 904 may be greater than the cross-sectional area and / or surface area of the first side 9020 of the cover portion 902. In embodiments, the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9040 of the first actuation portion 904 may be less than the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9020 of the cover portion 902. In embodiments, the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9040 of the first actuation portion 904 may be the same or substantially the same as the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9020 of the cover portion 902.
  • the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may be greater than the cross-sectional area and / or surface area of the second side 9022 of the cover portion 902. In embodiments, the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may be less than the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9022 of the cover portion 902. In embodiments, the cross- sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may be the same or substantially the same as the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9022 of the cover portion 902.
  • the cross-sectional area and I or the surface area of the first and I or second side 9040, 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may include one or more of the features described above in respect of the first and I or second side 9040, 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 when compared to the first and / or second side 9020, 9022 of the cover portion 902.
  • the cross-sectional area and / or surface area of the first side 9040 of the first actuation portion 904 may be greater than the cross-sectional area and / or surface area of the first side 9060 of the second actuation portion 906.
  • the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9040 of the first actuation portion 904 may be less than the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9060 of the second actuation portion 906. In embodiments, the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9040 of the first actuation portion 904 may be the same or substantially the same as the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the first side 9060 of the second actuation portion 906.
  • the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may be greater than the cross-sectional area and / or surface area of the second side 9062 of the second actuation portion 906. In embodiments, the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may be less than the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9062 of the second actuation portion 906. In embodiments, the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may be the same or substantially the same as the cross-sectional area and I or surface area of the second side 9062 of the second actuation portion 906.
  • the cross-sectional and I or surface areas of the first and second sides 9040, 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may differ. In embodiments, the cross-sectional and I or surface areas of the first and second sides 9040, 9042 of the first actuation portion 904 may be the same, or substantially the same.
  • the cross-sectional and I or surface areas of the first and second sides 9060, 9062 of the second actuation portion 906 may differ. In embodiments, the cross-sectional and I or surface areas of the first and second sides 9060, 9062 of the second actuation portion 906 may be the same, or substantially the same.
  • the cross-sectional and I or surface areas of the first and second sides 9020, 9022 of the cover portion 902 may differ.
  • the cross-sectional and I or surface areas of the first and second sides 9020, 9022 of the cover portion 902 may be the same, or substantially the same.
  • the cover 90 may include a (first) connection portion 908 for connecting the cover 90 to the main body 12.
  • the cover may also include a second, further, connection portion 910 for connecting the cover 90 to the main body 12.
  • the first and second connection portions 908, 910 may be substantially parallel, or substantially coaxial, as exemplified in figure 7. In embodiments, this may not be the case.
  • the first connection portion 908 may be inclined at an angle to the second connection portion 910 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the cover portion 902 may be connected to the first and / or second connection portions 908, 910.
  • the cover portion 902 may be integrally formed with the first and I or second connection portions 908, 910. In embodiments, this may not be the case.
  • the cover portion 902 may be formed separately and subsequently attached to the first and I or second connection portion 908, 910.
  • the first actuation portion 904 may be connected to the first connection portion 908.
  • the first actuation portion 904 may be integrally formed with the first connection portion 908. In embodiments, this may not be the case.
  • the first actuation portion 904 may be formed separately and subsequently attached to the first connection portion 908.
  • the second actuation portion 906 may be connected to the second connection portion 910.
  • the second actuation portion 906 may be integrally formed with the second connection portion 910. In embodiments, this may not be the case.
  • the second actuation portion 906 may be formed separately and subsequently attached to the second connection portion 910.
  • the cover 90 and in particular the first and second cover portions 908, 910, may define an axis A.
  • the respective first ends of the first and I or second actuation portion 904, 906 and cover portion 902 may be positioned on the axis A.
  • the cover 90 may be positioned in use in the pathway 50.
  • the cover portion 902 may be positioned between the nozzle opening 802 and the pathway opening 502.
  • the main body 12, or the pathway 50 may include a, first, connection recess 1200 and may include a further, second, connection recess 1202.
  • the first connection portion 908 and the second connection portion 910 may each be received in the first and second connection recesses 1200, 1202 respectively. This may hold the cover 90 in position relative to the pathway 50 and may permit the cover 90 to move relative to the pathway 50.
  • the axis A may extend across the pathway 50 when the cover 90 is in the pathway 50.
  • the axis A may be positioned in a top half of the pathway 50 and preferably adjacent a top of the pathway 50.
  • the axis A may be generally orthogonal to the axis B of the pathway 50. In embodiments, the axis A may be inclined at an angle to the axis B without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the cover 90 When the cover 90 moves towards the first position the cover 90 may move towards the nozzle 80 and/or away from the first pathway opening 502. Conversely, when the cover 90 moves towards the second position the cover 90 may move away from the nozzle 80 and/or towards the first pathway opening 502.
  • first and / or second actuation portions 904, 906 extend around the nozzle 80, as exemplified in figure 5(b).
  • first and / or second actuation portions 904, 906 may be positioned generally parallel to an elongate axis of the pathway 50, which may extend between the first and second pathway openings 502, 504, adjacent a side of the nozzle 80.
  • the pathway 50 may include a first actuation portion recess 5010 and may include a second actuation portion recess 5012.
  • the first actuation portion 904 may be received in the first actuation portion recess 5010 in the first position.
  • the second actuation portion 906 may be received in the second actuation portion recess 5012 in the first position. In embodiments, this may not be the case.
  • no first or second actuation portion recess may be provided.
  • the cover 90 may be positioned such that when the cover 90 is in the first position the cover portion 902 is positioned directly adjacent / in front of the nozzle opening 802, as exemplified in figure 5(b).
  • the nozzle 80 may include a nozzle recess 804.
  • the cover portion 902 may be received in the nozzle recess 804 when the cover 90 is in the first position.
  • the cover 90 may be positioned such that when the cover 90 is in the second position the first and I or second actuation portions 904, 906 are positioned in line with or adjacent the nozzle opening 802, as exemplified in figure 5(a).
  • the cover 90 may be positioned such that when the cover 90 is in the second position the cover portion 902 is positioned above the nozzle opening 802 adjacent the top of the pathway 50, as exemplified in figure 5(a).
  • the cover 90 may be biased to adopt the second position.
  • the cover 90 may be positioned in the same positions as the nozzle 80 described above so as to cover the nozzle opening 802.
  • the nozzle 80 and the cover portion 902 may be positioned generally centrally in the pathway 50, e.g., between or substantially midway between the first and second sides of the pathway 50 and I or between or substantially midway between the first and second pathway openings 502, 504.
  • the cover 90 is movable from a first position for covering the nozzle opening 802, to a second position for permitting the medicament to be dispensed.
  • the cover 90 may be movable to the first position by force exerted on the cover 90 by exhalation of the user.
  • the cover 90 may be movable to the second position by force exerted on the cover 90 by inhalation of the user.
  • the cover 90 may be movable with respect to the axis A between the first and second positions.
  • the cover 90 may be pivotably or rotatably movable from the first to the second position and I or from the second position to the first position.
  • the cover 90 may be pivotable I rotatable about the axis A.
  • the cover 90 may be movable in other ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the cover may be slidably movable between the first and second positions relative to the axis A without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the cover 90 may be movable to a third position.
  • the third position may be between the first and second positions.
  • the cover 90 may be biased to adopt the third position.
  • the cover 90 may come to rest, after use, in the third position.
  • the spirometry sensor 1000 may be fluidly connected to, or positioned in, the pathway 50.
  • the spirometry sensor 1000 may be fluidly connected to, or positioned in, a bottom of the pathway 50. This may be advantageous in providing a more compact inhaler than was previously possible.
  • the spirometry sensor 1000 may be fluidly connected to, or positioned in, a top or side of the pathway 50.
  • the spirometry sensor 1000 may be fluidly connected to, or positioned in, the pathway 50 at a position further away from the pathway opening 502 than the nozzle 80. This may be advantageous in providing a more accurate reading of the volume and I or speed (flow) of air from a user’s lungs.
  • the spirometry sensor 1000 may be fluidly connected to, or positioned in, the pathway 50 at a position closer to the pathway opening 502 than the nozzle 80. In embodiments, the spirometry sensor 1000 may be fluidly connected to, or positioned in, the pathway 50 at a position the same distance from the pathway opening 502 as the nozzle 80.
  • the spirometry sensor 1000 may be a pressure or flow sensor.
  • the pathway 50 and I or the nozzle 80 may include an anti-microbial device 1100, or at least a portion of an anti-microbial device, for in the pathway 50 and I or on the nozzle 80.
  • the anti-microbial device 1100 may include one or more surfaces of the pathway 50 and I or nozzle being formed from an antimicrobial material or coating.
  • the pathway and I or the nozzle 80 may be formed from, include, or be coated in: copper, denticles (artificial), placoid scales (artificial), dermal denticles (artificial), nanopillars or artificial cicada wing material. Examples of denticles and nanopillars I cicada wing material are shown in figures 11 (a) and 11 (b).
  • antimicrobial surfaces may be advantageous in preventing a building up of microbes on the inhaler 10. This may be advantageous due to the extended life of the inhaler 10 compared to the prior art and therefore greater time available for microbes to accumulate on the inhaler 10.
  • other antimicrobial surfaces may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the one or more surfaces of the pathway I nozzle may be formed from or coated with a super hydrophobic material. In embodiments, this may not be the case.
  • the anti-microbial device 1100 may include ultra-violet (UV) light sources 1102 (best shown in figure 12).
  • the light sources 1 102 may be provided in the pathway 50, and in particular may be provided on a bottom of the pathway 50.
  • the light sources 1102 may be provided as LEDs.
  • the light sources 1102 may be operably connected to the pathway 50 to irradiate surfaces thereof.
  • the light sources 1102 may be operably connected to the pathway 50 by one or more light guides (not shown).
  • the light sources 1102 may be positioned directly in the pathway 50.
  • the light sources 1102 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) positioned below the pathway 50.
  • the controller 20, button 30, battery 70 and screen 60 may each also be operably connected to the PCB.
  • four light sources I LEDs have been provided. In embodiments, more or fewer light sources may be provided without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • Two or more of the light sources 1102 may be positioned either side of the nozzle 80, in particular underneath the actuation portions 904, 906 when in the first position.
  • One or more of the light sources 1102 may be positioned rearwardly of the nozzle 80 between the nozzle 80 and the second pathway opening 504.
  • Two or more of light sources 1102 may be positioned at first and second respective sides of the pathway 50 between the nozzle 80 and the second pathway opening 504.
  • One or more of the light sources 1102 may be positioned adjacent the second pathway opening 504.
  • the light sources 1102 may be configured to be controlled by the controller 20.
  • the inhaler 10 may include a “sanitise” mode. In the sanitise mode the controller 20 may be configured to activate the light sources 1102. The controller 20 may be configured to only activate the light sources 1102 if the mouthpiece cover 400 is in the closed condition. This may be advantageous in preventing or inhibiting ultra-violet light from leaving the inhaler 10 during a cleaning operation.
  • the controller 20 may be configured to operate the sanitise mode for a predetermined period of time, e.g., at least 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds or 60 seconds and I or at most 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds or 60 seconds.
  • the controller may control the latch to cause the lid 18 to adopt the open condition so a canister may be ejected prior to the light sources 1102 being activated.
  • the anti-microbial device 1100 may include a cleaning solution 1104, e.g., provided in a canister.
  • the cleaning solution 1104 may be receivable in the chamber and may be dispensed for cleaning the nozzle 80 and pathway 50.
  • the inhaler 10 may include a “cleaning” mode operably associated with the cleaning solution 1104.
  • the controller 20 may be configured to cause the latch to release the lid 18 for the chamber 14 and eject the canister (as shown in figure 13(a).
  • a cleaning solution canister 1104 may then be inserted into the chamber 14 (as shown in figure 13(b).
  • the controller 20 may then cause the cleaning solution canister to be fully received in the chamber 14 and the lid 18 moved to a closed position (see figure 13(c)).
  • the controller 20 may prevent operation of the cleaning mode unless the mouthpiece cover 400 is in the closed condition. Once this has been confirmed by the controller 20, the controller 20 may operate the inhaler 10 to cause the cleaning solution 1104 to be dispensed and so clean the pathway 50 and nozzle 80. The cleaning solution canister 1104 may then be removed and replaced with a medicament canister in the same way as described above.
  • the cleaning solution canister 1104 may include a memory which includes identification information for the canister.
  • the controller 20 may be configured to read the cleaning solution canister 1104 to determine whether the correct cleaning solution canister 1104 has been inserted into the inhaler 10.
  • the controller 20 may pause operation of the “cleaning” mode if an incorrect cleaning solution canister 1104 has been inserted.
  • the controller 20 may control the latch to cause the lid 18 to adopt the open condition and eject any incorrect cleaning solution canister 1104 so a correct cleaning solution canister 1104 may be inserted and the cleaning operation completed.
  • the controller 20 may be configured to operate the cleaning mode for a predetermined period of time, e.g., at least 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds or 60 seconds and / or at most 30 seconds, 40 seconds, 50 seconds or 60 seconds.
  • the screen 60 may display if a sanitising or cleaning operation is needed and I or in progress.
  • the screen may display a remaining time until the operation is completed.
  • the screen 60 may display the next step needed to cause the sanitising or cleaning operation to be completed.
  • the screen may display images associated with the steps of the sanitising or cleaning operation. A user may be able to scroll through the steps on the screen 60 to troubleshoot any issues they have.
  • FIG. 15 to 17 there is shown a second embodiment of an inhaler 10’.
  • the inhaler 10’ includes a main body 12’, chamber 14’ and nozzle 80’ as described in relation to the first embodiment.
  • the pathway 50’ may include a first pathway portion 510’ and a second pathway portion 530’.
  • the pathway 50’, and the first pathway portion 510’ and a second pathway portion 530’ may be defined by one of more portions of the main body 12’.
  • separate walls may define the pathway 50’, and the first pathway portion 510’ and a second pathway portion 530’.
  • the pathway 50’ includes a first pathway opening 502’ operably connected to the first pathway portion 510’ through which a user may inhale a medicament or exhale.
  • the pathway 50’ may include a second pathway opening 504’ operably connected to the second pathway portion 530’ through which air may pass, in use.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may be positioned at or near the base / bottom of the inhaler 10’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may extend between the front and rear of the inhaler 10’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may extend generally linearly between the front and rear of the inhaler 10’ and I or generally centrally between the first and second sides of the inhaler 10’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may be positioned at or near the top of the inhaler 10’ or midway between the top and bottom, e.g., generally centrally between the top and bottom.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may extend between the top and bottom of the inhaler 10’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may extend generally curvilinearly, or arcuately or in another way between the front and rear of the inhaler 10’ without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned at or near the rear of the inhaler 10’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may extend at least partially along the rear of the inhaler 10’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned at or near the bottom of the inhaler 10’ or midway between the top and bottom, e.g., generally centrally.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned at or near the front of the inhaler 10’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may extend at least partially along the front and I or bottom of the inhaler 10’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may extend generally linearly along the rear, optionally between the top and bottom, of the inhaler 10’ and / or generally centrally between the first and second sides of the inhaler 10’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may define a generally elongate axis S’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may extend generally curvilinearly, or arcuately or in another way along the rear of the inhaler, optionally between the top and bottom of the inhaler 10’, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may extend along the rear of the inhaler 10’ and the first and I or second side of the inhaler 10’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may be operably connected to the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may include first and second respective ends 512’, 514’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may include first and second respective ends 532’, 534’.
  • the second end 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’ may be operably connected to the first end 532’ of the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the axis S’ may extend between the first and second respective ends 532’, 534’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may extend generally away from the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may be inclined at an angle to the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may be generally orthogonal to the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the angle between the first and second pathway portions 510’, 530’ may be less than 90 degrees.
  • the second end 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned closer to the top of the inhaler than the first end 532’ of the second pathway portion 530’ and / or the first and / or second end 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the second end 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned further from the top of the inhaler than the first end 532’ of the second pathway portion 530’ and I or the first and I or second end 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’. In embodiments, the second end 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned to a first or second side of the first end 532’ of the second pathway portion 530’ and / or the first and I or second end 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the nozzle 80’ may be positioned in the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the nozzle 80’ may be positioned at or near or adjacent the first end 512’ of the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the nozzle 80’ may be positioned at or near or adjacent the second end 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the first and I or second pathway portions 51 O’, 530’ may be generally oval, elliptical or stadium shaped in cross-section and I or rectangular and I or square and I or circular without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may be generally oval shaped in cross-section and the second pathway portion 530’ may be generally rectangular in cross-section.
  • the pathway 50’ may include a third pathway portion 520’.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may connect, or operably connect, the first pathway portion 510’ to the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may be any of the shapes described in respect of the first and second pathway portions 510’, 530’.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may include first and second respective ends 522’, 524’.
  • the first end 522’ may be connected to the second end 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the second end 524’ may be connected to the first end 532’ of the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned generally above the third pathway portion 520’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned generally below and / or to a first or second side of the third pathway portion 520’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may be positioned generally in front of the third pathway portion 520’, e.g., the first pathway portion 510’ may be positioned closer to a front of the main body 12’ than the third pathway portion 520’.
  • the first pathway portion 510’ may be positioned generally below and / or to a first or second side of the third pathway portion 520’.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may be positioned at or near the base of the inhaler 10’ and I or at or near the rear of the inhaler 10’.
  • the second end 524’ of the third pathway portion 520’ may be positioned closer to the top of the inhaler than the first end 522’ of the third pathway portion 520’ and I or the first and / or second end 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’ and I or the first and I or second end 532’, 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the second end 524’ of the third pathway portion 520’ may be positioned further from the top of the inhaler than the first end 522’ of the third pathway portion 520’ and / or the first and I or second end 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’ and I or the first and I or second end 532’, 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the second end 524’ of the third pathway portion 520’ may be positioned to a first or second side of the first end 522’ of the third pathway portion 520’ and I or the first and I or second end 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’ and I or the first and I or second end 532’, 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the first end 522’ of the third pathway portion 520’ may be substantially aligned with the first and I or second ends 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510.
  • the second end 524’ of the third pathway portion 520’ may be substantially aligned with the first and I or second ends 532’, 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may be generally curvilinear and I or arcuate, as can be seen in figure 14, e.g., in side view.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may extend along a curvilinear or arcuate path as it extends from the first pathway portion 510’ to the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may extend in otherways, e.g., linearly, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may decrease in cross-sectional area, and I or taper, as the third pathway portion 520’ extends from the first pathway portion 510’ to the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the third pathway portion 520’ may increase in cross-sectional area and I or have a constant cross-sectional area as the third pathway portion 520’ extends from the first pathway portion 510’ to the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the pathway 50’ may include a further third pathway portion 520”.
  • the further third pathway portion 520” may be similar to or substantially the same as the third pathway portion 520’. Reference to the further third pathway portion 520” features will be denoted by a double prime symbol (”).
  • the third pathway portion 520’ and further third pathway portion 520” may be operably or fluidly connected to the first and I or second pathway portion 51 O’, 530’ in parallel. In embodiments, the third pathway portion 520’ and further third pathway portion 520” may be fluidly connected to the first and I or second pathway portion 510’, 530’ in series without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the pathway 50’ may include a fourth pathway portion 540’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ may connect to the first pathway portion 51 O’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ may be any of the shapes described in respect of the first and second pathway portions 510’, 530’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ may include first and second respective ends 542’, 544’.
  • the first end 542’ may terminate in the first pathway opening 502’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ may operably connect the first pathway opening 502’ to the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the second end 544’ may be connected to the first end 512’ of the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ may be defined, at least partially, by the mouthpiece 40’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ and / or the mouthpiece 40’ may extend away from the front of the inhaler 10’ and I or downwardly with respect to the first pathway portion 51 O’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ and I or the mouthpiece 40’ may extend away at an angle from the front of the inhaler 10’ and I or downwardly with respect to the first pathway portion 51 O’.
  • the angle may be at least 60; 55; 50; 45 or 40 degrees.
  • the angle may be at most 85; 80; 75; 70 or 65 degrees.
  • the first pathway opening 502’ may be positioned at the front of the inhaler.
  • the second end 544’ of the fourth pathway portion 540’ may be positioned closer to the top of the inhaler than the first end 542’ of the fourth pathway portion 540’. In embodiments, the second end 544’ of the fourth pathway portion 540’ may be positioned further from the top of the inhaler than the first end 542’ of the fourth pathway portion 540’ and I or the first and I or second end 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’ and / or the first and / or second end 532’, 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’. In embodiments, the second end 544’ of the fourth pathway portion 540’ may be substantially aligned with the first and I or second ends 512’, 514’ of the first pathway portion 510’ and the first end 522’ of the third pathway portion 520’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ may be generally linear, as can be seen in figure 14, e.g., in side view. In embodiments, the fourth pathway portion 540’ may extend in otherways, e.g., curvilinearly or arcuately, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ may decrease in cross-sectional area, and I or taper, as the fourth pathway portion 540’ extends towards the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the fourth pathway portion 540’ may increase in cross-sectional area and I or have a constant cross-sectional area as the fourth pathway portion 540’ extends towards the first pathway portion 510’.
  • a generally horizontal axis B’ may pass through first pathway opening 502’ and I or first and I or second ends of the fourth, first and third pathway portions 542’, 544’, 512’, 514’, 522’, 524’. In embodiments this may not be the case.
  • the axis B’ may, in side view, intersect axis S’, and optionally may be generally orthogonal to axis S’.
  • the axis B’ may lie in a generally horizontal plane which may intersect axis S’ and may be generally orthogonal to axis S’.
  • the inhaler may include a second pathway opening 504’ (see figures 14 and 16 in particular).
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be operably connected to the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be operably connected to the second end 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be covered by a grill 506’.
  • the grill 506’ may be integrally formed with the main body 12’. In embodiments, the grill 506’ may be formed separately to the main body 12’.
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be positioned generally above the third pathway portion 520’.
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be positioned generally below the third pathway portion 520’ and / or to a first or second side of the third pathway portion 520’.
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be positioned at or near the top of the inhaler 10’ and I or in the rear, e.g., rear wall, of the inhaler 10’.
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be positioned below the third pathway portion 520’ and I or to first or second sides of the third pathway portion 520’.
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be positioned at or near the bottom of the inhaler 10’ and / or in the front or the first and / or second sides of the inhaler 10’ without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the second pathway opening 504’ may be positioned in a side of the second end 534’ of the second pathway portion 520’.
  • the second end 534’ of the second pathway portion 520’ may terminate in the second pathway opening 504’.
  • a surface in which the second pathway opening 504’ is defined may be inclined at an angle to the axis S’. The angle may be less than 90 degrees.
  • the surface may be generally curved and may extend at least partially around and define the second end 534’ of the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the surface may be curved surface 132’.
  • the inhaler 10’ may include a plurality of second pathway openings 504’, each operably connected to the second pathway portion 530’.
  • the inhaler 10’ may include a further second pathway opening 504” and a further second pathway portion 530”.
  • the further second pathway opening 504” may be operably connected to the further second pathway portion 530”.
  • the further second pathway portion 530” and further second pathway opening 504” may include one or more or all the features of the second pathway portion 530’ and second pathway opening 504’ as set forth above. Therefore, these will not be described in more detail.
  • Reference to the further second pathway portion 530” features will be denoted by a double prime symbol (”).
  • the second pathway portion 530’ and further second pathway portion 530” may be each operably connected to the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may be connected to the third pathway portion 520’ which in turn may be connected to the first pathway portion 51 O’.
  • the further second pathway portion 530” may be connected to the further third pathway portion 520” which in turn may be connected to the first pathway portion 510’.
  • the second pathway portion 530’, further second pathway portion 530”, third pathway portion 520’ and further third pathway portion 520” may be defined between the first and second sides of the main body 12’ and an intermediate wall 550’.
  • the intermediate wall 550’ may extend generally vertically, at least partially, between the first and second sides of the inhaler 10’.
  • the intermediate wall 550’ may extend generally linearly, at least partially, between the first and second sides of the inhaler 10’. In embodiments, the intermediate wall 550’ may extend in other ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the intermediate wall 550’ may increase or decrease in thickness as it extends towards the top of the inhaler 10’. In embodiments, the intermediate wall 550’ may curve towards the first and I or second side of the inhaler 10’ without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the second pathway portion 530’ may be positioned to the first side of the inhaler 10’.
  • the further second pathway portion 530” may be positioned to the second side of the inhaler 10’.
  • the further second pathway portion 530” may define a generally elongate axis S”.
  • the axis S” may be generally parallel to the axis S’.
  • the axis S” may be inclined with respect to the axis S’, for example towards or away from the first and I or second sides and I or towards or away from the front and the rear of the inhaler 10’.
  • the invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and/or features.
  • one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Heart & Thoracic Surgery (AREA)
  • Hematology (AREA)
  • Bioinformatics & Cheminformatics (AREA)
  • Biomedical Technology (AREA)
  • Anesthesiology (AREA)
  • Pulmonology (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Medical Preparation Storing Or Oral Administration Devices (AREA)

Abstract

Inhalateur, consistant en : un corps principal ; une chambre pour la réception d'un médicament ; une voie biologique dans laquelle le médicament peut être distribué ; une ouverture de voie biologique reliée de manière fonctionnelle à la voie biologique à travers laquelle un utilisateur peut inhaler un médicament ou expirer ; une buse pour distribuer le médicament dans la voie biologique, ladite buse consistant en une ouverture de buse à travers laquelle le médicament est distribué ; et un couvercle pour recouvrir l'ouverture de buse ; le couvercle étant mobile d'une première position pour recouvrir l'ouverture de buse, à une seconde position pour permettre au médicament d'être distribué ; le couvercle étant mobile vers la première position par une force exercée sur le couvercle par expiration de l'utilisateur ; et/ou le couvercle étant mobile vers la seconde position par une force exercée sur le couvercle par inhalation de l'utilisateur.
PCT/GB2024/052472 2023-09-25 2024-09-25 Inhalateur Pending WO2025068695A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2314680.6A GB2637675A (en) 2023-09-25 2023-09-25 Inhaler
GB2314680.6 2023-09-25

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2025068695A1 true WO2025068695A1 (fr) 2025-04-03

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ID=88599252

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/GB2024/052472 Pending WO2025068695A1 (fr) 2023-09-25 2024-09-25 Inhalateur

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GB (1) GB2637675A (fr)
WO (1) WO2025068695A1 (fr)

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4576157A (en) * 1983-10-24 1986-03-18 Raghuprasad Puthalath K Oral inhalation apparatus
US5069204A (en) * 1989-08-23 1991-12-03 Riker Laboratories, Inc. Inhaler
US5511540A (en) * 1992-08-18 1996-04-30 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Inhalation device
WO2004028608A1 (fr) * 2002-09-25 2004-04-08 3M Innovative Properties Company Distributeurs d'aerosols actionnes par aspiration
US20060231093A1 (en) * 2002-11-04 2006-10-19 Simon Burge Pressurised inhalers
WO2018083711A1 (fr) * 2016-11-03 2018-05-11 Saini Ajay Kumar Système de surveillance respiratoire, dispositif respiratoire et procédé d'admission de médicament à partir dudit dispositif respiratoire
WO2022229665A1 (fr) * 2021-04-29 2022-11-03 3D Engineering Design Limited Inhalateur

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4576157A (en) * 1983-10-24 1986-03-18 Raghuprasad Puthalath K Oral inhalation apparatus
US5069204A (en) * 1989-08-23 1991-12-03 Riker Laboratories, Inc. Inhaler
US5511540A (en) * 1992-08-18 1996-04-30 Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company Inhalation device
WO2004028608A1 (fr) * 2002-09-25 2004-04-08 3M Innovative Properties Company Distributeurs d'aerosols actionnes par aspiration
US20060231093A1 (en) * 2002-11-04 2006-10-19 Simon Burge Pressurised inhalers
WO2018083711A1 (fr) * 2016-11-03 2018-05-11 Saini Ajay Kumar Système de surveillance respiratoire, dispositif respiratoire et procédé d'admission de médicament à partir dudit dispositif respiratoire
WO2022229665A1 (fr) * 2021-04-29 2022-11-03 3D Engineering Design Limited Inhalateur

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GB202314680D0 (en) 2023-11-08
GB2637675A (en) 2025-08-06

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