DE102024119932A1 - Handheld device for portion-wise dispensing of a pharmaceutical substance - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a hand-held device 1 for portion-wise dispensing of a pharmaceutical substance, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2) accommodated in the housing (6) and containing the substance, wherein the housing (6) has a mouthpiece (7) and the cartridge (2) is arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, further with a pressure part (9) arranged to be movable in the housing (6), which can be moved between a starting position and a clamping position in order to build up a force for moving the cartridge (2) between the rest position and the dispensing position, and with a valve flap (15) which can be moved between a starting position and a pivoting position by a user who is inhaling at the mouthpiece (7). For reliable functioning of the hand-held device, a holding part (16) is provided which is movable between a holding position and a release position, which in the holding position prevents the movement of the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position, and wherein the valve flap (15) in the starting position blocks the movement of the holding part (16) in the holding position, wherein the holding part (16) is moved by the cartridge (2) into the release position when the valve flap (15) moves into the pivoting position, whereby the force acting on the cartridge (2) in the clamping position is reduced. Additionally or alternatively, the force acting on the cartridge in the clamping position is adjustable.

Description

field of technology

The invention relates to a hand-held device for portion-wise dispensing of a pharmaceutical substance, with a housing and a cartridge containing the substance which is accommodated in the housing, wherein the housing has a mouthpiece and the cartridge is arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, further comprising a pressure part in the housing which acts on the cartridge and which is movable between a starting position and a clamping position while building up a force which serves to move the cartridge.

A holding member may also be provided which can be moved between a holding position and a release position, the holding member preventing movement of the cartridge into the dispensing position. To move the cartridge into the dispensing position, the user must inhale into the mouthpiece to create a negative pressure.

Alternatively or additionally, a valve flap can be provided which can be moved between a starting position and a pivoting position, wherein the valve flap can be moved from the starting position to the pivoting position by the user inhaling at the mouthpiece in order to bring the cartridge into the removal position.

A hand-held device, as described here in particular, is also referred to as an inhaler. It is intended to ensure that the substance is actually inhaled by the user. In the dispensing position, the hand-held device should only dispense substance to the user if the user has put the hand-held device with the mouthpiece in their mouth and is inhaling. During the suction process, the holding part is removed from a movement path of the cartridge and the cartridge then moves into the dispensing position due to the built-up force. During the movement into the dispensing position, the valve is pressed into the cartridge against the force of a valve spring and a predetermined amount of substance comes out of the cartridge. The substance is usually under pressure and a spraying process takes place. With regard to such cartridges and valves, for example, EP 2 275 479A1 and US 2016/0 084 385A1 These statements are also relevant for the handheld devices as disclosed in more detail here and in this respect also describe the device disclosed here.

State of the art

In one of the WO 2020/105 943 A1 ( US 2021/0 316 092 A1 In the handheld device known as the ) the valve flap is also the holding part. However, it could happen that even small movements of the valve flap, for example due to incorrect positioning or shaking, lead to a release of substance.

It has also been shown that cartridges of different sizes are possible and the force required to bring the cartridge into the clamping position is insufficient or too high.

Based on the prior art presented, the invention is based on the object of specifying an embodiment that is as safe as possible with regard to the dispensing of substance. Furthermore, the invention also relates independently or additionally to the object of ensuring sufficient force for moving the cartridge into the dispensing position, which is as independent as possible of a specific size of a cartridge.

Summary of the Invention

To solve this problem, a possible embodiment provides that the holding part is movable between a holding position and a release position, wherein in the holding position the movement of the cartridge into the removal position is prevented, that the valve flap in the starting position blocks the movement of the holding part in the holding position and the holding part is moved by the cartridge into the release position when the valve flap moves into the pivoting position, wherein the force acting on the cartridge in the clamping position is reduced.

The valve flap has the task of initially blocking the holding part as long as a user is not inhaling from the mouthpiece in the usual way. For this purpose, the holding part is preferably a separate part from the valve flap. Minor movements of the valve flap do not cause the holding part to be released.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, a further possible embodiment provides that the force acting in the clamping position is adjustable.

The adjustability of the force allows for individual adaptation to a specific cartridge.

According to a possible embodiment, it is provided that the holding part can be pivoted about a first pivot axis. The holding part is designed as pivotable part and can be moved between the holding position and the release position, whereby an advantageous bearing is provided.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the holding part has a predetermined first pivoting direction with respect to a movement from the holding position into the release position. The holding part can preferably only move in one pivoting direction. The pivoting direction indicates the direction of a movement around the pivot axis, a direction of rotation of a circular movement, in relation to the pivot axis.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the valve flap can be pivoted about a second pivot axis. The valve flap is also a pivotable part.

According to another possible embodiment, a reset part is provided for returning the valve flap and/or the holding part to the starting position or to the holding position. In principle, gravity could also be sufficient for the reset in one embodiment. However, it is advantageous to provide a separate reset part.

According to another possible embodiment, the reset part is designed as a reset spring. With the movement of the valve flap from the starting position to the swivel position and/or the movement of the holding part from the holding position to the release position, a spring force for resetting can be built up. An automatic reset can be the result.

According to a further possible embodiment, the reset part has a first spring section which cooperates with the housing to reset the reset part. As will be explained in more detail below, the reset part can also be used to trigger a substance release without prior inhalation at the mouthpiece. In this case, in particular, the reset part must be moved as a whole and the first spring section is required to reset the reset part as a whole. For this purpose, the reset part preferably has an auxiliary projection which preferably acts on the valve flap.

According to a further possible embodiment, the return part has a second spring section which interacts with the valve flap in order to return the valve flap. The second spring section preferably ensures that the valve flap automatically returns from the pivot position to the starting position.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the return part has a third spring section which cooperates with the holding part to return the holding part. The third spring section preferably ensures that the holding part moves back from the release position into the holding position.

According to another possible embodiment, the cartridge has a stop part. By means of the stop part, the cartridge can be placed on the holding part in the clamping position. The stop part does not necessarily have to be an integral part of the cartridge. As explained below, it can also be part of a counter arranged between the cartridge and the holding part. The fact that the cartridge has a stop part does not necessarily mean that the cartridge acts directly on the stop part, but possibly via a part arranged between them, for example the counter mentioned. The cartridge can also act directly on the stop part.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the stop part extends at an angle with respect to a direction of movement of the cartridge. As a result, the stop part can exert a force on the holding part that is inclined with respect to the direction of movement of the cartridge. This can promote the immediate movement of the holding part into the release position when the valve flap moves from the starting position into the pivot position.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the pressure part exerts the force on the cartridge by means of an elastically deformed transmission part.

According to another possible embodiment, the transmission part is a spring.

According to another possible embodiment, the transmission part or the spring acts between the pressure part and a support part supported on the cartridge. The transmission part or the spring is preferably not arranged directly on the cartridge. In this way, decoupling from the cartridge can also be achieved in an advantageous manner with regard to the adjustability of the force.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the force is determined by changing an effective distance between the pressure part and the cartridge can be adjusted. The pressure part can be moved relative to the cartridge between the starting position and the clamping position, but it can also be changed independently or in addition to this mobility in its distance from the cartridge that is relevant for an effect on the cartridge.

According to another possible embodiment, the pressure part consists of a coupling part and an adjustment part. The coupling part is preferably used for coupling with a part that is intended to achieve the clamping position. This is preferably the mouthpiece closure cap, which can be moved from a closed position to an open position and vice versa. The adjustment part is preferably the part of the pressure part that determines the distance on the pressure part side that is relevant for the effect on the cartridge.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the adjusting part is displaceable relative to the coupling part in order to adjust the force acting in the clamping position.

According to another possible embodiment, it is provided that the adjustment part can be moved by means of threads formed on the coupling part and the adjustment part. The adjustment part can thus be screwed further into the coupling part or unscrewed from it.

According to another possible embodiment, the spring is pre-tensioned in the starting position. This enables a safe development of force. However, the pre-tension does not have to lead to a load on the cartridge as long as the pressure part is still in the starting position. Relief beyond the given pre-tension is preferably not possible.

The possible embodiments described above and below can be provided individually or in combination with respect to two or more possible embodiments, up to all possible embodiments. In particular in a combination as it results from the possible embodiments in the exemplary embodiments described.

Short description of the drawings

• 1 eine perspektivische Ansicht des Handgeräts;
• 2 ein Schnitt durch den Gegenstand gemäß 1 entlang der Ebene II-II, gemäß einer ersten Ausführungsform;
• 3 ein Schnitt gemäß 2, der eine zweite Ausführungsform zeigt;
• 4 eine Explosionsdarstellung der zweiten Ausführungsform, das Druckteil und das Einstellteil betreffend;
• 5 eine Explosionsdarstellung der zweiten Ausführungsform in Form einer Baugruppe mit der Ventilklappe und dem Halteteil;
• 6 eine vergrößerte Ansicht eines Trägerteils in einer Schrägansicht von oben;
• 7 eine Darstellung gemäß 6, in einer Ansicht schräg von unten;
• 8 eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Zwischenteils;
• 9 eine Draufsicht auf das Verstellteil;
• 10 ein Schnitt durch das Verstellteil gemäß 9 entlang der Linie X-X;
• 11 ein Schnitt durch eine Montageeinheit mit dem Verstellteil, dem Trägerteil und dem Zwischenteil;
• 12 eine Vergrößerung der 3 gemäß XII in 3;
• 13 ein Schnitt durch den Gegenstand gemäß 12 entlang der Linie XIII-XIII;
• 14 eine Teilansicht eines Endabschnitts der Kartusche mit darunter liegendem Anschlagteil, dem Halteteil und der Ventilklappe;
• 15 eine Explosionsdarstellung der Teile Ventilklappe, Halteteil, Rückstellteil und Aufnahme dafür;
• 16 eine Draufsicht auf das Rückstellteil;
• 17 eine schematische Darstellung des Handgeräts, geschnitten im Bereich des Verstellteils, mit geschlossener Mundstückverschlusskappe;
• 18 eine Darstellung gemäß 17, wobei ein relevanter Abstand geändert ist;
• 19 eine perspektivische Ansicht, die einen Teil des Handgeräts von schräg unten zeigt, wobei die Verschlusskappe des Mundstücks geöffnet ist;
• 20 Schnitt durch den Gegenstand von 19 entlang der Ebene XX-XX;
• 21 eine Vergrößerung von XXI in 20
• 22 eine Darstellung gemäß 20 nach dem Einatmen durch einen Benutzer, die eine theoretische Zwischenposition darstellt;
• 23 eine Vergrößerung von XXIII in 22;
• 24 ein Schnitt entlang der Linie XXIV-XXIV in 22;
• 25 eine weitere Darstellung im Anschluss an 22;
• 26 eine nachfolgende Darstellung von 24, die den Zustand gemäß 23 betrifft;
• 27 eine Vergrößerung des Bereichs XXVII in 25;
• 28 eine weitere Darstellung im Anschluss an 25; und
• 29 eine Folgedarstellung von 28.

The handset is described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawing, which shows:

• 1 a perspective view of the handset;
• 2 a section through the object according to 1 along the plane II-II, according to a first embodiment;
• 3 a cut according to 2 , which shows a second embodiment;
• 4 an exploded view of the second embodiment, concerning the pressure part and the adjustment part;
• 5 an exploded view of the second embodiment in the form of an assembly with the valve flap and the holding part;
• 6 an enlarged view of a support part in an oblique view from above;
• 7 a representation according to 6 , in a view obliquely from below;
• 8 a perspective view of an intermediate part;
• 9 a top view of the adjustment part;
• 10 a section through the adjustment part according to 9 along line XX;
• 11 a section through an assembly unit with the adjustment part, the support part and the intermediate part;
• 12 an increase in 3 according to XII in 3 ;
• 13 a section through the object according to 12 along the line XIII-XIII;
• 14 a partial view of an end section of the cartridge with the stop part underneath, the holding part and the valve flap;
• 15 an exploded view of the valve flap, holding part, reset part and holder for it;
• 16 a top view of the reset part;
• 17 a schematic representation of the handset, sectioned in the area of the adjustment part, with the mouthpiece cap closed;
• 18 a representation according to 17 , where a relevant distance is changed;
• 19 a perspective view showing a part of the handset from below with the mouthpiece cap open;
• 20 Section through the object of 19 along the plane XX-XX;
• 21 an enlargement of XXI in 20
• 22 a representation according to 20 after inhalation by a user, which represents a theoretical intermediate position;
• 23 an enlargement of XXIII in 22 ;
• 24 a section along the line XXIV-XXIV in 22 ;
• 25 a further presentation following 22 ;
• 26 a subsequent presentation of 24 , which the condition according to 23 regards;
• 27 an enlargement of area XXVII in 25 ;
• 28 a further presentation following 25 ; and
• 29 a follow-up presentation of 28 .

Description of the embodiments

In 1 a hand-held device 1 is shown and described which serves for the portioned dispensing of a preferably sprayable pharmaceutical substance. The substance is contained in a cartridge 2, cf. 2 and 3 . The cartridge 2 has a valve 3 which releases the substance by pressing it into the cartridge 2. As a rule and in the embodiments shown, the valve 3 is pressed into the cartridge 2 by pressing on an opposite end of the cartridge. The valve is housed in a valve seat 4 in which a spray nozzle 5 is also formed.

The substance is usually under pressure in the cartridge 2, so that the substance is sprayed when pressed. A metered amount of the substance is sprayed. In order to spray a further amount, the cartridge 2 must first be relieved again, whereby the valve 3 returns to its original position.

The handset 1 also has a housing 6, a mouthpiece 7 and a mouthpiece cap 8.

The cartridge 2 can be moved by force between a rest position, as in 2 and 3 shown, and a delivery position, as in 25 For this purpose, a pressure part 9 is arranged in the housing 6. The pressure part 9 can be moved between a starting position, eg according to 2 , 3 and 17 , and a clamping position, e.g. according to 25 , to move.

Specifically and preferably, the pressure part 9 consists of a preferably sleeve-shaped coupling part 10 and an adjustment part 11, see also 9 and 10 The adjustment part 11 acts on the cartridge 2 by means of an elastically deformable transmission part U, which in the exemplary embodiment is preferably a spring 12.

The interaction of the adjustment part 11 preferably takes place via thread formations formed on the coupling part 10 and the adjustment part 11, e.g. an internal thread 51 and an external thread 50.

In the exemplary embodiment and preferably, the coupling part 10 has coupling arms 13. The coupling arms 13 can interact with an eccentric 14 which is formed on a holding arm 45 of the mouthpiece closure cap 8. For this purpose, for example, 5 The eccentric 14 is preferably accommodated in a slot 46 on preferably each of the coupling arms 13.

When opening the mouthpiece cap 8 by moving it from a position according to the 2 , 3 in a position according to one of the 18 , 19 , 20 , 22 , 25 , 28 is moved, the coupling part 10, in the embodiment and preferably with the eccentrics 14 accommodated in the elongated holes 46, is pulled downwards, in the direction of the valve seat 4, into the clamping position. As a result, the transmission part U, preferably the spring 12, is deformed and thus tensioned and exerts corresponding pressure on the cartridge 2.

The force acting between the pressure part 9 and the cartridge 2 is preferably adjustable. The adjustment can be made by changing an effective distance a, cf. eg 2 and 3 and 17, between the pressure part 9 and the cartridge 2. The changed distance is in 18 as a'. In the exemplary embodiment and preferably, this can be achieved by adjusting the adjustment part 11 relative to the coupling part 10 using the thread formations mentioned. In 18 the smaller distance a' is achieved by rotating the adjusting part 11 relative to the coupling part 10 in comparison to 17 realized.

If the distance is changed from size a to size a', this results in the coupling part 10 being loaded upwards, away from the valve seat 4.

In principle, a certain load can then already be placed on the cartridge 2 in the starting position. However, it is preferred that the cartridge 2 is not loaded by the printing part 9 in the starting position of the printing part 9.

The eccentric 14 can be accommodated in the slot 46 with vertical play, ie with a free distance b between the eccentric 14 and a corresponding - lower - edge of the slot 46. "Vertical" here is defined in the direction of movement of the cartridge 2 from the rest position to the start position. This can mean that when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is swung open, an interaction with an edge of the elongated hole 46 only occurs after a larger swivel angle, so that the force exerted on the cartridge 2 when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is fully swung open is less than it would be in comparison to a maximum possible force due to the displacement of the elongated hole 46. However, adjusting the distance a to the distance a' leads to the interaction in relation to the swivel angle starting earlier, at a smaller swivel angle, so that ultimately when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is swung open completely, a greater force acts on the cartridge 2 in the clamping position. At the same time, this can ensure that in the starting position, regardless of the setting mentioned, no force acts on the cartridge 2. However, it is also possible that a certain initial force is already exerted on the cartridge 2 when the mouthpiece closure cap is closed.

The housing 6 is also preferably designed in the shape of a sleeve. The housing 6 and the pressure part 9 are preferably arranged so that they are inserted into one another, with the pressure part 9 being on the inside. The housing 6 can be designed in two or more parts. In the exemplary embodiment, an upper part and a lower part are provided. The lower part essentially comprises the mouthpiece 7, the valve seat 4 and the housing bases described below. The two or more parts can be snapped together. In addition, there is the mouthpiece closure cap 8.

Support arms 47 are also formed on the upper housing part. A bearing pin 49 of the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is accommodated in a bearing opening 48. In this regard, reference is also made to the 4 and 5 referred to.

A valve flap 15 is also provided in the housing 6 of the hand-held device 1. The valve flap 15 is fluidically connected to a suction channel formed by the mouthpiece 7. When a user inhales at the mouthpiece 7, the valve flap 15 is subjected to a negative air pressure. The valve flap 15 is preferably arranged pivotably in the housing 6. By applying negative pressure, it can be moved from an initial position according to 2 , 3 , 14 into a swivel position according to 22 , 25 It opens up a flow path like a valve through which additional air can flow into the mouthpiece 7 as the user sucks in air.

A holding part 16 is also provided in the housing 6 of the handset 1. The holding part 16 can be moved between a holding position, as in 2 , 3 shown, and a release position as in 25 , 27 , 28 shown. In the holding position, the holding part 16 prevents the movement of the cartridge 2 into the dispensing position. In the holding position, the valve flap 15 also blocks the movement of the holding part 16. The holding part 16 can only move if the valve flap 15 moves into the pivot position. This releases the blockage of the holding part 16 and the cartridge 2 presses on the holding part 16 and moves the holding part 16 into the release position.

The holding part 16 can be pivoted about a first pivot axis A1. The holding part 16 can be moved in a first predetermined pivot direction R1 about the pivot axis A1 from the holding position to the release position.

The valve flap 15 can be pivoted about a second pivot axis A2, preferably also in an identical, second pivot direction R2, now relative to the pivot axis A2.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the first and second pivot axes A1, A2 run approximately parallel to one another. The valve flap 15 and the holding part 16 are preferably arranged next to one another. In this regard, reference is also made, for example, to 14 Seen in the direction of the mouthpiece 7, they are arranged one behind the other, with the holding part 16 being at the front, closer to the mouthpiece 7.

The valve flap 15 can advantageously only pivot in one direction from the initial position to the pivot position. The movement from the pivot position to the initial position or, with respect to the holding part 15, from the release position to the holding position then takes place in the opposite direction.

Since, according to a possible embodiment, the first and second pivoting directions R1, R2 are the same, an assembly space can be used advantageously, see e.g. 15 .

Further preferably, a reset part 17 is provided for resetting the valve flap 15 and the holding part 16 to the initial position or to the holding position. In the exemplary embodiment and preferably, a uniform reset part 17 is provided. However, separate reset parts can also be present.

The return part 17 is preferably designed as a return spring which has parts or extensions or sections with a spring effect.

With particular reference to the 15 and 16 the return part 17 can have a first spring section 18 and/or a second spring section 19 and/or a third spring section 20. Regardless of the designation “first” etc., it is also possible that only one or more of the spring sections are formed.

In this case, the first spring section 18 cooperates with the housing 6, preferably an inner surface of the housing 6, to reset the reset part 17 as a whole. This is important in connection with the triggering of the substance release without inhalation by a user being necessary. The reset part 17 as such is preferably movable only for this purpose.

In principle, there is no need for such a design. Rather, the aim of the hand-held device 1 described here is that a user can trigger the release of substance only by inhaling. However, there is a need, e.g. for test purposes, to release substance without inhalation being necessary. The reset part 17 can also be used for this purpose (or possibly alone). Such use of the reset part 17 is described in detail below.

The second spring section 19 interacts with the valve flap 15. It enables the valve flap 15 to be moved back from the pivot position to the initial position. For this purpose, the valve flap 15 can have a first load extension 21, see e.g. 15 and 21 . When the valve flap 15 is in the 22 shown pivot position, the first load extension 21 simultaneously has the second spring section 19 from the position shown in 24 shown position in the 26 shown position, whereby a restoring force is built up. When the user stops inhaling, the second spring section 19 can thereby move the valve flap 15 back to the starting position. This is also shown in 16 , wherein the second spring section 19 is shown in solid and dashed lines.

The third spring section 20 serves in a comparable manner to return the holding part 16 from the release position to the holding position. For this purpose, the holding part 16 preferably has, in the exemplary embodiment, a second loading extension 22, see also 15 and 21 . For example, from 16 is evident, whereby in this context reference is also made to the exploded view of 15 is to be referred to, when the holding part 16 is moved into the release position, the third spring section 20 is deflected by building up a restoring force. When the cartridge 2 or a stop part 23 of the cartridge 2 is moved back into the rest position when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is closed, the holding part 16 moves back into the holding position due to the effect of the third spring section 20.

In this case, the valve flap 15 regularly moves first into the starting position, so that the holding part 16 does not initially reach a blocking position. However, since the third spring section 20 is preferably set stronger than the second spring section 19, the holding part 16 can briefly move the valve flap 15 again in the direction of the second pivoting direction R2, as shown by the dashed line in 29 indicated, and thus reach the locking position.

Only the first 18 or second 19 or third spring section 20 or a combination of the first 18 and the second 19, the second 19 and third 20 or the first 18 and third spring section 20 can be provided. In particular, the second 19 and the third spring section 20 can also be attached directly to the housing 6 or to a common part which is in turn attached to the housing 6.

The reset part 17 as a whole, in particular when the first 18, the second 19 and the third spring section 20 are formed on the reset part 17, is preferably accommodated in the housing 6 in a sliding manner. It can rest on an upper side of a housing base, preferably a second housing base 27. In this regard, reference is made to the exploded view according to 15 referred to.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that a spring force of the first spring part 18 is set stronger than a spring force of the second 19 and the third spring part 20. This makes it possible in particular for the reset part 17 not to move when the valve flap 15 and also the holding part 16 are moved by inhaling at the mouthpiece 7 during normal use of the handset 1.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that a spring force of the third spring section 20 is set stronger than a spring force of the second spring section 19. The third spring section 20 loads the holding part 16 in the holding position. This design of the spring forces contributes to the fact that the holding part 16 does not necessarily move even if the valve flap 16 moves slightly due to an unwanted external load, such as a vibration. In addition and alternatively, this setting of the spring forces is also for the return of the valve flap 15 and the holding part 16 to the starting position or the holding position after the substance has been released is important.

According to a further possible embodiment, the spring force of the third spring part 20 is set to be weaker than the force exerted by the cartridge 2 during the transition from the rest position to the removal position. When the cartridge 2 moves into the dispensing position, it can easily overcome the spring force acting on the holding part 16.

According to a further possible embodiment, the valve flap 15 has a locking projection 24. The locking projection 24 can be advantageous with regard to a desired interaction with the holding part 16.

According to another possible embodiment, the locking projection 24 in the starting position overlaps the holding part 16 in the holding position. The locking projection 24 enables the holding part 16 to be held in the holding position in a form-fitting manner. The locking projection 24 must first be completely moved out of the overlapping position before the holding part 16 can move. With the preferred pivoting movement of the valve flap 15, this can mean a pivoting angle of 5-15° or more.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that a holding part 16 in the clamping position, see for example 23 , the resulting force KR of the force exerted by the cartridge 2, in the present case by means of the stop part 23, on the holding part 16 runs at a distance from the first pivot axis A1. In this way, a favorable leverage effect of the force exerted by the cartridge 2 or the stop part 23 on the holding part 16 can be achieved.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the force resultant KR runs in a cross section on a first side of the first pivot axis A1, which is opposite a second side of the pivot axis A1, onto which the holding part 16 is displaced when moving into the release position. The force resultant KR is thus favorable for a force acting on the holding part 16 and pointing in the desired direction of displacement.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the holding part 16 has a blocking counter-locking projection 25, which is overlapped by the locking projection 24 in the holding position. Accordingly, both the holding part 16 and the valve flap 15 preferably have projections that cooperate for the desired blocking.

According to a further possible embodiment, the holding part 16 has an actuating surface F which runs obliquely to a direction of movement of the cartridge 2. This design enables the same effect as the aforementioned direction of the force resultant KR. Both measures can be provided individually or in combination.

According to a further possible embodiment, the actuating surface F preferably extends in the shape of a circular arc in a cross section in which the first pivot axis A1 appears as a point. This allows the desired pushing away of the holding part 16 into the release position by the cartridge 2 to be achieved in an advantageous manner. It is preferred that only the valve flap 15, when it is in the initial position and the holding part 16 is in the holding position, causes the holding part 16 to maintain the holding position and not move into the release position.

According to a further possible embodiment, the actuating surface F is at a vertical distance from the first pivot axis A1. The vertical distance can correspond to a radial extension of the counter-locking projection 25 or more. In this way, too, a lever arm is advantageously achieved with regard to the loading of the holding part 16 by the cartridge 2.

According to a further possible embodiment, the housing 6 has an air-permeable first housing base 26. The first housing base 26 preferably closes off a space at the bottom in which the cartridge 2, optionally a counter 43 and the valve seat 4 are formed or provided.

In the exemplary embodiment, a counter 43 (not shown in detail) is provided. The counter 43 is preferably acted upon directly by an underside 44 of the cartridge 2. In the exemplary embodiment and preferably, the stop part 23 is formed on the counter 43, preferably on the underside of the counter 43. With regard to possible embodiments of the counter 43 as such, reference is also made to US Pat. Nos. 7,827,984 B2 , US 7,984,710 B2 , US 7,448,342 B2 and US 8,474,447 B2 A meter with a stop part is in the already mentioned WO 2020/105 943 A1 ( US 2021/0 316 092 A1 )

The valve 3 preferably extends at least partially through the counter 43. The Counter 43 also alternatively or additionally preferably surrounds an area of the valve seat 4.

According to a further possible embodiment, the housing 6 has a second housing bottom 27 which is formed below the first housing bottom 26.

According to a further possible embodiment, the valve flap 15 is arranged below the first housing base 26. The valve flap 15 can expediently be arranged in a space between the first 26 and the second housing base 27. In particular, the first housing base 26 can also be designed in the form of a grid or only with a comparatively narrow air passage opening. In any case, it is preferred that the valve flap 15 and/or the holding part 16, even if they have become detached from a holder, cannot penetrate the first housing base 26 and thus cannot reach the user's airway.

According to a further possible embodiment, the holding part 16 is arranged below the first housing base 26.

According to a further possible embodiment, the valve flap 15 and the holding part 16 are arranged above the second housing base 27.

According to a further possible embodiment, the reset part 17 is arranged below the valve flap 15. In addition, it is preferably arranged above the second housing base 27.

According to a further possible embodiment, the return part 17 is arranged below the holding part 16.

Please refer to the exploded view in 15 referred to.

According to a further possible embodiment, the reset part 17 has an actuating projection 28. This actuating projection 28 is intended to trigger a dispensing process without the user actually inhaling. Preferably, the actuating projection 28 is barely visible and/or concealed for a user.

According to another possible embodiment, the actuating projection 28 protrudes from the housing 6. This means that it can be reached and actuated relatively easily in the given application. In another embodiment, it is preferred that the actuating projection 28 is covered by the mouthpiece closure cap 8 even when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is closed. The actuating projection 28 is also preferably located below the mouthpiece 7, on the front of the housing 6 facing the user during use. This makes it practically invisible to the user. It is also not touched during normal handling.

According to a further possible embodiment, the return part 17 has a support projection 29 on which the valve flap 15 rests in the initial position.

According to a further possible embodiment, the adjustment part 11 has a shape 30 for interaction with a turning tool on a side facing away from the cartridge 2. The shape 30 can be, for example, a slot for attaching a screwdriver or a polygon for attaching a wrench or a hexagon socket tool (Allen tool, polygon socket).

According to a further possible embodiment, a support part 31 is provided, via which the force is transmitted to the cartridge 2. The support part 31 can interact with the adjustment part 11 in a displaceable manner. The support part 31 is arranged between the cartridge and the spring 12. The support part 31 can be locked to the adjustment part 11. The spring 12 is supported on the support part 31. The spring 12 is preferably supported only on the adjustment part 11 and the support part 31. In this regard, particular reference is made to the exploded view according to 4 , but also on the 6 and 7 referred to.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the support part 31 can be moved relative to the adjustment part 11 between a stop position and an adjustment position. In addition to an increase in the force acting on the cartridge, a corresponding increase in the force in the cocked position can take place, which is achieved if necessary by adjusting the screw. The support part 31 moves from the stop position to the adjustment position. It is preferred, see above, that the support part 31 only moves into the adjustment position during the movement of the pressure part into the clamping position. The portion of the force that increases the preload acts on the cartridge 2 either after the adjustment, before the pressure part 9 is moved into the clamping position, or preferably only after the pressure part 9 is moved into the clamping position and then as a portion of the total force acting on the cartridge 2.

According to a further possible embodiment, the support part 31 has a stop projection 32 which, in the stop position, rests against a counter stop 33 of the adjustment part. In this way, the preload can be achieved without the preload necessarily exerting a force on the cartridge 2. In this context, reference is also made to 11 referred to.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that several stop projections 32 are provided. For example, three stop projections 32 can be provided. These can be evenly or unevenly distributed over a circumference. Accordingly, several counter-stops 33 can also be provided.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the carrier part 31 is supported on an intermediate part 34 which is arranged between the carrier part 31 and the cartridge 2.

According to another possible embodiment, see in particular 12 and 13 , it is provided that the intermediate part 34 is secured against rotation on the pressure part 9. For this purpose, the intermediate part 34 can have one or more securing projections 35 which are clamped between one or more securing counter-projections 36 of the pressure part 9, in the exemplary embodiment and preferably formed on an inner surface of the coupling part 10. In this way, it can be achieved that a rotational movement of the adjustment part 11 does not act on the cartridge 2.

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the intermediate part 34 has ribs 37 which can be driven over in one direction and which face the carrier part 31 (see also 8 ).

According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the support part 31 faces the intermediate part 34 and has projections 38, preferably also rib-shaped, which are intended to interact with the ribs 37. It is now shown, for example, 7 referred to.

With the help of the ribs 37 and projections 38, a preferably ratchet-like interaction is achieved between the support part 31 and the intermediate part 34. Since the intermediate part 34 is preferably secured against rotation on the pressure part 9, it can also be achieved in this way that an adjustment of the adjustment part 11 is secured with a connection between the support part 31 and the adjustment part 11 that is secured against rotation. Turning it back is not possible.

According to a further possible embodiment, a spacer spring 39 acts between the carrier part 31 and the intermediate part 34. In this regard, reference is also made to 8 referred to.

According to a further possible embodiment, several spacer springs 39 are provided.

According to a further possible embodiment, a spacer spring 39 is formed on the intermediate part 34.

The one or more spacer springs preferably act on a circumferential, protruding edge 40 of the carrier part 31.

The one or more spacer springs 39 are advantageous with regard to a favorable ratchet-like interaction between the carrier part 31 and the intermediate part 34.

According to another possible embodiment, a locking of the intermediate part 34 with the carrier part 31 is provided. The locking can be achieved, for example, by two locking feet 41.

According to a further possible embodiment, the carrier part 31 is rotatable relative to the intermediate part 34.

The handset 1 can be used as follows.

A user takes the handset 1 in the closed position according to 1 He then opens the mouthpiece cap 8, whereupon the handset 1 is in a configuration according to 18 By pivoting the mouthpiece cap 8, the pressure part 9 is moved from the initial position, which is in a constellation according to 1 is given, into the clamping position. A force sufficient for a dispensing process now acts on the cartridge 2. The cartridge 2 has not moved at all or only slightly during the movement of the pressure part 9 into the clamping position. In any case, the cartridge 2 has not moved far enough for the cartridge 2 to be in the dispensing position so that a substance is dispensed. The cartridge 2 cannot move into the dispensing position simply by opening the mouthpiece closure cap 8, since it is supported on the holding part 16 by means of the stop part 23.

In order for the substance to be released, the user must inhale through mouthpiece 7. This causes, as in 22 shown, the valve flap 15 is brought into the pivot position and the locking projection 24 releases the counter-locking projection 25. The holding part 16 is then moved into the release position without any further action by the cartridge 2, in the exemplary embodiment by the stop part 23 sitting directly on the holding part 16. The cartridge 2 moves further downwards, whereby the valve 3 is pushed into the cartridge 2, and substance is dosed.

If the user then puts down the handset 1 or stops inhaling, the valve flap 15 is moved back to its original position by the second spring section 19, see 28 . Since the cartridge 2, in the embodiment preferably the stop part 23, prevents the holding part 16 from being moved back into the holding position, the locking projection 24 engages under the counter-locking projection 25, as in 28 can be seen.

To achieve further substance delivery, the user must first close the mouthpiece cap 8 again, as shown in 29 The pressure part 9 is then returned to its original position. A valve spring (not shown in detail) acting between the valve 3 and the cartridge 2 causes the cartridge 2 to return to the position shown in 2 or 3 opposite the valve 3. The cartridge 2 moves upwards accordingly and with it the stop part 23. The stop part 23 thus clears the way for the holding part 16 to reach the holding position. The holding part 16 is moved back into the holding position by the third spring section 20.

Before the hand-held device 1 is used, the force acting on the cartridge 2 can be adjusted, preferably at the factory, by turning the adjustment part 11. This creates a certain relative movement between the pressure part 9, in particular the coupling part 10, and the eccentric 14. In order to be able to absorb this movement at least to a certain extent, the elongated hole 46 is designed to be larger in the vertical direction than the corresponding dimensions of the eccentric 14.

In particular, at the factory or during an adjustment process, it is also possible to trigger the release of substance solely by acting on the reset part 17. For this purpose, the actuating projection 28 can be pressed into the housing 6, as explained in detail with reference to the exemplary embodiment. Starting from a position as shown in 16 in relation to the second spring section 19 in the solid line and the first loading extension 21 shown next to it in dashed lines, when the first loading extension 21 is pressed in by means of an auxiliary projection 42 formed on the return part, the latter is moved so far that the valve flap 15 is moved in such a way that the valve flap 15 thereby releases the holding element 16 and the cartridge 2 is accordingly moved into the dispensing position.

List of reference symbols

1

handheld device

2

cartridge

3

valve

4

valve seat

5

spray nozzle

6

Housing

7

mouthpiece

8

mouthpiece cap

9

printing part

10

coupling part

11

adjustment part

12

Feather

13

clutch arm

14

eccentric

15

valve flap

16

holding part

17

reset part

18

first spring section

19

second spring section

20

third spring section

21

load process

22

second loading process

23

stop part

24

locking projection

25

counter-locking projection

26

first case back

27

second case back

28

actuation projection

29

support projection

30

shaping

31

carrier part

32

stop projection

33

counterattack

34

intermediate piece

35

securing information

36

safety counter projection

37

ribs

38

projection

39

spacer spring

40

protruding edge

41

locking foot

42

auxiliary lead

43

counter

44

bottom

45

support arm

46

slot

47

support arms

48

warehouse opening

49

bearing journals

50

external thread

51

internal thread

a

distance

a'

distance

b

distance

A1

first swivel axis

A1

second swivel axis

F

actuation surface

R1

first swivel direction

R2

second swivel direction

KR

force resultant

F

actuation surface

U

transmission part

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 2 275 479A1 [0004]
• US 2016/0 084 385A1 [0004]
• WO 2020/105 943 A1 [0005, 0075]
• US 2021/0 316 092 A1 [0005, 0075]
• US 7,827,984 B2 [0075]
• US 7,984,710 B2 [0075]
• US 7,448,342 B2 [0075]
• US 8,474,447 B2 [0075]

Claims (10)

Hand-held device (1) for portion-wise dispensing of a pharmaceutical substance, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2) accommodated in the housing (6) and containing the substance, wherein the housing (6) has a mouthpiece (7) and the cartridge (2) is arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, further with a pressure part (9) arranged to be movable in the housing (6), which is movable between a starting position and a clamping position in order to build up a force for moving the cartridge (2) between the rest position and the dispensing position, and with a valve flap (15) which can be moved between a starting position and a pivoting position by a user inhaling at the mouthpiece (7), characterized in that a holding part (16) is provided which can be moved between a holding position and a release position, which prevents the movement of the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position in the holding position and that the valve flap (15) prevents the movement of the holding part (16) in the starting position. blocked in the holding position, wherein the holding part (16) is moved by the cartridge (2) into the release position when the valve flap (15) moves into the pivoting position, whereby the force acting on the cartridge (2) in the clamping position is thereby reduced. Hand-held device (1) for portion-wise dispensing of a pharmaceutical substance, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2) arranged in the housing (6), the cartridge (2) containing the substance, wherein the housing (6) has a mouthpiece (7) and wherein a movably arranged pressure part (9) is also provided in the housing (6), a holding part (16) which is movable between a holding position in which movement of the cartridge (2) is prevented and a release position, and a valve flap (15) which is movable between a starting position and a pivoting position, the movement being effected by the application of negative air pressure, wherein the cartridge (2) is arranged such that it is movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, wherein the pressure part (9) is movable between a starting position and a clamping position, whereby a force is built up which serves to move the cartridge (2), wherein the valve flap (15) is moved by a user inhaling at the mouthpiece (7) from the starting position, in which the valve flap (15) blocks the movement of the holding part (16) in its holding position, into the pivoting position in which the movement of the holding part (16) is released, and wherein when the valve flap (15) is moved into the pivoting position, the holding part (16) is moved by the cartridge (2) into the release position, reducing the force acting on the cartridge (6) in the clamping position. Handheld device (1) for portion-wise dispensing of a pharmaceutical substance, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2) contained in the housing (6), wherein the cartridge (2) contains the substance, the housing (6) has a mouthpiece (7) and the cartridge (2) is arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, wherein a pressure part (9) acting on the cartridge (2), which is moved from an initial position to a clamping position while building up a force serving to move the cartridge (2), and a holding part (16) which is movable between a holding position and a release position are also arranged in the housing (6), wherein the holding part (16) prevents the movement of the cartridge (2) in the holding position and can be moved by the cartridge (2) in the release position when a user inhales to build up a negative pressure at the mouthpiece (7), characterized in that the force acting in the clamping position is adjustable. Hand-held device (1) for portion-wise dispensing of a pharmaceutical substance, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2) contained in the housing (6), the cartridge (2) containing the substance, wherein the cartridge (2) is arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, wherein a pressure part (9) and a holding part (16) are further provided in the housing (6), wherein the pressure part (9) is arranged to be movable relative to the housing (6) and the cartridge (2) in order to generate a force which is required to move the cartridge (2) from the rest position into the dispensing position, the holding part (16) can be displaced between a holding position in which movement of the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position is prevented and a release position in which movement of the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position is released, wherein the pressure part (9) in the holding position has the Cartridge (2) in the dispensing position is exerted by means of an elastically deformed transmission part (U) acting between the pressure part (9) and the cartridge (2), wherein an effective distance (a) between the pressure part (9) and the cartridge (2) is adjustable for setting a magnitude of the force. Hand-held device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding part (16) is pivotable about a first pivot axis (A1) is pivotable, wherein, preferably, the holding part (16) has a predetermined first pivoting direction (R1) with respect to a movement from the holding position into the release position. Hand-held device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve flap (15) can be pivoted about a second pivot axis (A2) and/or a reset part (17) is provided for returning the valve flap (15) and the holding part (16) to the starting position or to the holding position, wherein the reset part (17) is preferably designed as a return spring. handheld device claim 6 , characterized in that the reset part (17) has a first spring portion (18) which cooperates with the housing (6) to reset the reset part (17) and/or the reset part (17) has a second spring portion (19) which cooperates with the valve flap (15) to reset the valve flap (15) and/or the reset part (17) has a third spring portion (20) which cooperates with the holding part (16) to reset the holding part (16). Hand-held device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge (2) has a stop part (23), wherein the cartridge (2) is preferably supported by means of the stop part (23) in the clamping position on the holding part (16) located in the holding position and/or the stop part (23) runs obliquely to a direction of movement of the cartridge (2) and/or the pressure part (9) exerts the force on the cartridge (2) by means of an elastically deformed transmission part (U), wherein the transmission part is preferably a spring (12) and/or the spring (12) acts between the pressure part (9) and a support part (31) supported on the cartridge (2) and/or the force can be adjusted by changing an effective distance (a) between the pressure part (9) and the cartridge (2). Hand tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure part (9) consists of a coupling part (10) and an adjustment part (11), wherein preferably the adjustment part (11) is displaceable relative to the coupling part (10) for adjusting the force acting in the clamping position and/or the adjustment part (11) is screw-displaceable by means of thread formations (49, 50) formed on the coupling part (10) and the adjustment part (11). handheld device claim 8 , characterized in that the spring (12) is prestressed in the initial position and/or the force is adjustable by changing an effective distance (a) between the adjusting part (11) and a supporting part (31).

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