KR102743421B1 - Inhaler - Google Patents

Abstract

According to one embodiment, an inhaler may include a chamber for accommodating a capsule containing powder, a stick having a piercing hole opening toward the chamber, a holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction, a piercing member provided in the insertion groove and piercing the piercing hole to rupture the capsule when the stick is inserted, and a vibration member providing vibration to the piercing member.

Description

INNHALER

Various embodiments of this document relate to inhalers.

In recent years, there has been an increasing demand for alternative products that overcome the shortcomings of traditional cigarettes. For example, an inhaler is a device that allows a user to inhale a liquid or gaseous state containing a composition such as a drug through the mouth or nose.

These devices have a chamber that holds an inhalable composition, and the composition travels from the chamber through a channel and ultimately into the oral or nasal cavity, where it can be inhaled by the user.

The background technology described above is technology that the inventor possessed or acquired in the process of deriving the disclosure content of the present application, and cannot necessarily be said to be a publicly known technology disclosed to the general public prior to the present application.

In the case of inhalers using powder-type compositions, conventional non-electronic inhalers had to rely on the user's breathing to inhale the powder. In this case, there was a problem that the amount of powder released from the inhaler could vary depending on the user's lung breathing volume, and users whose lung breathing volume did not meet a certain level were restricted from using the inhaler.

To solve this problem, there was a demand for an inhaler that allows smooth inhalation even by users with weak lung capacity, and furthermore, allows individual control of the powder release state for general users.

According to one embodiment, an inhaler may include a stick having a chamber for accommodating a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber, a holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction, a piercing member provided in the insertion groove and piercing the piercing hole to rupture the capsule when the stick is inserted, and a vibration member providing vibration to the piercing member.

In one embodiment, the vibrating member can vibrate the piercing member in a direction substantially parallel to the first direction.

In one embodiment, the vibrating member can vibrate the piercing member in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

In one embodiment, the vibrating member can vibrate the piercing member in a direction substantially horizontal and substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

In one embodiment, a puff sensor that detects airflow within the stick; and

The device may further include a processor that receives a detection result from the puff sensor and controls vibration of the vibration member.

In one embodiment, the chamber may further include a sub-vibration member that provides vibration to the chamber.

In one embodiment, the inserter further includes an elastic member provided in the insertion groove and pressed by the stick when the stick is inserted, and the sub-vibration member can provide vibration to the chamber of the stick through the elastic member.

In one embodiment, the sub-vibration member can vibrate the chamber in a direction substantially parallel to the first direction.

In one embodiment, the sub-vibration member can vibrate the chamber in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

In one embodiment, the sub-vibration member can vibrate the chamber in a direction substantially horizontal and substantially vertical to the first direction.

In one embodiment, the stick may further include a puff sensor for detecting airflow inside the stick, and a processor for receiving a detection result from the puff sensor and controlling vibration of the vibration member and the sub-vibration member.

In one embodiment, the stick may include a mouthpiece provided in an opposite direction to the chamber, an airflow channel communicating from the chamber to the mouthpiece, and a mesh dividing the airflow channel and the chamber.

In one embodiment, the stick may further include a sealing member that seals the piercing hole and is broken by the piercing member when the stick is inserted into the insertion groove.

In one embodiment, the stick may include a door that selectively opens and closes the piercing hole.

In one embodiment, the device may further include an insertion detection sensor for detecting whether the stick is inserted into the insertion groove, a door hinge for moving the door, and a processor for receiving a detection result from the insertion detection sensor and controlling the door hinge to open and close the door.

An inhaler comprising at least one of a vibrating member and/or a sub-vibrating member according to one embodiment can control the amount and/or the rate of release of powder released from the capsule and assist the user in smoothly inhaling the powder.

The effects of the enhancer according to one embodiment are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an inhaler according to one embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an inhaler according to one embodiment.
FIG. 3a is a schematic drawing illustrating the interior of an inhaler according to one embodiment.
FIG. 3b is a schematic diagram illustrating the interior of an inhaler according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4a is a schematic diagram illustrating the interior of an inhaler according to one embodiment.
FIG. 4b is a schematic diagram illustrating the interior of an inhaler according to one embodiment.
FIG. 5a is a cross-sectional view of a stick according to one embodiment.
Figure 5b is a cross-sectional view of a stick according to one embodiment.

The terms used in various embodiments are selected from the most widely used general terms possible while considering the functions in the present invention, but this may vary depending on the intention of engineers working in the field, precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in this case, the meanings thereof will be described in detail in the description of the relevant invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall contents of the present invention, rather than simply the names of the terms.

When a part of the specification is said to "include" a component, this does not mean that it excludes other components, but rather that it may include other components, unless otherwise specifically stated. In addition, terms such as "part", "module", etc. described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be implemented by hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software.

As used herein, when an expression such as "at least one" precedes an array of elements, it modifies the entire array of elements rather than each individual element. For example, the expression "at least one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted to include a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c.

In various embodiments, a "puff" means an inhalation by the user, where inhalation means drawing air into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through the user's mouth or nose.

In one embodiment, the inhaler may include a body (or holder) that supports a cartridge (or stick) that accommodates a capsule containing a composition. The cartridge may be detachably coupled to the body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be formed integrally with or assembled to the body, and may be fixed so as not to be detached by a user. The cartridge may be mounted to the body with the capsule accommodated therein. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a capsule containing powder or a substance may be injected into the cartridge while the cartridge is coupled to the body.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement them. The present disclosure may be implemented in a form that can be implemented in the various embodiments described above or may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

Figure 1 is a block diagram of an inhaler (100) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 1, an inhaler (100) according to one embodiment may include at least some of a control unit (110), a sensing unit (120), an output unit (130), a battery (140), a heater (150), a user input unit (160), a memory (170), a communication unit (180), and a driving unit (190).

However, the internal structure of the inhaler (100) is not limited to that shown in Fig. 1. That is, it can be understood by those skilled in the art related to the present embodiment that some of the configurations shown in Fig. 1 may be omitted or new configurations may be added depending on the design of the inhaler (100).

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) can detect the state of the inhaler (100) or the state around the inhaler (100) and transmit the detected information to the control unit (110) (or processor). The control unit (110) can control the operation of other components of the inhaler (100) based on the detected information.

For example, the control unit (110) may perform various functions, such as controlling the operation of the heater (150) based on the detection result of the sensing unit (120), determining whether a stick (e.g., the stick (210) of FIG. 2), a capsule (e.g., the capsule (232) of FIG. 3A), a cartridge, a cigarette, etc. are inserted and controlling the driving unit (190), or displaying a notification with the output unit (130).

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) may include, but is not limited to, at least one of a temperature sensor (122), an insertion detection sensor (124), and a puff sensor (126).

In one embodiment, the temperature sensor (122) can detect the temperature at which the heater (150) is heated. The inhaler (100) may include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the heater (150), or the heater (150) itself may act as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor (122) may be placed around the battery (140) to monitor the temperature of the battery (140).

In one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor (124) can detect insertion and/or removal of a stick (e.g., stick (230) of FIG. 2) or a capsule (e.g., capsule (232) of FIGS. 3A and 3B). For example, the insertion detection sensor (124) can include at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, an optical sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and can detect a signal change as the stick or capsule is inserted and/or removed.

In one embodiment, the puff sensor (126) can detect a user's puff based on various physical changes in an airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor (126) can detect a user's puff based on any one of a temperature change, a flow change, a voltage change, and a pressure change.

In one embodiment, the sensing unit (120) may further include, in addition to the above-described sensors, at least one of a temperature/humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB sensor (illuminance sensor). Since the function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from its name by a person skilled in the art, a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

In one embodiment, the output unit (130) can output information about the status of the influencer (100) and provide it to the user. The output unit (130) can include at least one of the display unit (132), the haptic unit (134), and the audio output unit (136), but is not limited thereto. When the display unit (132) and the touch pad form a layer structure to form a touch screen, the display unit (132) can be used as an input device in addition to an output device.

In one embodiment, the display unit (132) can visually provide information about the inhaler (100) to the user. For example, the information about the inhaler (100) can include at least some of various information such as the charge/discharge status of the battery (140) of the inhaler (100), the preheating status of the heater (150), the insertion/removal status of the stick or capsule, or the status in which the use of the inhaler (100) is restricted (e.g., detection of an abnormal item), and the vibration status of the driving unit (190), and the display unit (132) can output this information to the outside. The display unit (132) can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), or the like. In addition, the display unit (132) can also be in the form of an LED light-emitting element.

In one embodiment, the haptic component (134) may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus or an electrical stimulus to provide tactile information about the influencer (100) to the user. For example, the haptic component (134) may include a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

In one embodiment, the audio output unit (136) can provide information about the enhancer (100) to the user audibly. For example, the audio output unit (136) can convert an electrical signal into an audio signal and output it externally.

In one embodiment, the battery (140) can supply power used to operate the inhaler (100). The battery (140) can supply power to enable the heater (150) to heat up.

In one embodiment, the battery (140) may supply power required for the operation of other components provided in the enhancer (100) (e.g., a sensing unit (120), an output unit (130), a user input unit (160), a memory (170), a communication unit (180), or a driving unit (190)). The battery (140) may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery (140) may be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may receive power from the battery (140) to heat the aerosol generating material. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the inhaler (100) may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC/DC converter) that converts power from the battery (140) and supplies it to the heater (150). In addition, when the inhaler (100) generates the aerosol by induction heating, the inhaler (100) may further include a DC/AC converter that converts direct current power from the battery (140) into alternating current power.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110), the sensing unit (120), the output unit (130), the user input unit (160), the memory (170), the communication unit (180), and the driving unit (190) may receive power from the battery (140) to perform functions. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the device may further include a power conversion circuit, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, that converts power from the battery (140) and supplies it to each component.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may be formed of any suitable electrically resistive material. For example, suitable electrically resistive materials may be metals or metal alloys including, but not limited to, titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, nichrome, and the like. In addition, the heater (150) may be implemented as, but not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate having electrically conductive tracks arranged thereon, a ceramic heating element, and the like.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater (150) may include a susceptor that heats the aerosol generating material by generating heat through a magnetic field applied by the coil.

In one embodiment, the heater (150) may include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater (150) may include a first heater for heating the aerosol-generating article and a second heater for heating the liquid.

In one embodiment, the user input unit (160) may receive information input by a user, or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit (160) may include, but is not limited to, a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (contact electrostatic capacitance type, pressure resistive film type, infrared detection type, surface ultrasonic conduction type, integral tension measurement type, piezo effect type, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc. In addition, although not illustrated in FIG. 1, the influencer (100) further includes a connection interface, such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and may transmit and receive information or charge a battery (140) by connecting to another external device through a connection interface, such as a USB interface.

In one embodiment, the memory (170) is a hardware that stores various data processed in the enhancer (100), and can store data processed and data to be processed in the control unit (110). The memory (170) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (for example, an SD or xD memory, etc.), a RAM (random access memory), a SRAM (static random access memory), a ROM (read-only memory), an EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), a PROM (programmable read-only memory), a magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, and an optical disk.

In one embodiment, the memory (170) may store data about the operating time of the inhaler (100), the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

In one embodiment, the communication unit (180) may include at least one component for communicating with another electronic device. For example, the communication unit (180) may include a short-range communication unit (182) and a wireless communication unit (184).

In one embodiment, the short-range wireless communication unit (182) may include, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA, infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, an UWB (ultra-wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

In one embodiment, the wireless communication unit (184) may include, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit (184) may also verify and authenticate the inviter (100) within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI).

In one embodiment, the drive unit (190) may include various drive devices to assist the user's suction motion of the inhaler (100). For example, the drive unit (190) may include a vibrating member (191) to assist in the delivery of powder from the inhaler (100).

In one embodiment, the vibrating member (191) may be implemented as an electronic vibrator and may generate vibration in response to voltage (e.g., AC voltage) applied thereto. Without being limited thereto, the driving unit (190) may further include elements such as a motor, a shaft, a plurality of pinions, or a hydraulic device.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the overall operation of the enhancer (100). In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can include at least one processor. The processor can be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or can be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory storing a program that can be executed in the microprocessor. In addition, it will be understood by those skilled in the art to which the present embodiment belongs that the processor can be implemented as other types of hardware.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the temperature of the heater (150) by controlling the supply of power from the battery (140) to the heater (150). For example, the control unit (110) can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery (140) and the heater (150). In another example, the heating direct circuit can control the power supply to the heater (150) according to the control command of the control unit (110).

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may analyze the results detected by the sensing unit (120) and control the processes to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit (110) may control the power supplied to the heater (150) so that the operation of the heater (150) or the driving unit (190) is started or ended based on the results detected by the sensing unit (120).

For example, the control unit (110) can control the amount of power supplied to the heater (150) and the time for which the power is supplied so that the heater (150) can be heated to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature based on the result detected by the sensing unit (120).

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) may control the output unit (130) based on the result detected by the sensing unit (120). For example, when the number of puffs counted through the puff sensor (126) reaches a preset number, the control unit (110) may notify the user that the inhaler (100) will soon end through at least one of the display unit (132), the haptic unit (134), and the sound output unit (136). Or, for example, the puff sensor (126) may detect the user's inhalation state, and the control unit (110) may control the driving of the vibration member (191) of the driving unit (190) based on this.

In one embodiment, the control unit (110) can control the power supply time and/or power supply amount to the heater (150) depending on the state of the stick or capsule detected by the sensing unit (120).

An embodiment may also be implemented in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instructions, such as program modules, executed by a computer. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. Additionally, computer-readable media can include both computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically includes computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, and other data in a modulated data signal, or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media.

FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing of an inhaler (200) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 2, an inhaler (200) according to one embodiment may include at least a portion of a holder (210) and a stick (230).

In one embodiment, the holder (210) may be configured in a cylindrical or polygonal columnar shape. An insertion groove (215) may be formed in the holder (210) for inserting a stick (230), and the stick (230) may be inserted into the insertion groove (215) in a first direction (e.g., -Y direction).

In one embodiment, the holder (210) may include a first face (211), a second face (212), and a side face (213). An insertion groove (215) may be formed on the first face (211), and the second face (212) may be an opposite face of the first face (211). A side face (213) may be formed between the first face (211) and the second face (212).

In one embodiment, the insertion groove (215) may be configured as a recess formed concavely in a direction from the first surface (211) toward the second surface (212) and may be formed to be open to at least a portion of the first surface (211).

For example, the insertion groove (215) may have a shape extending along the longitudinal axis (e.g., +/-Y direction) of the holder (210). The stick (230) may be inserted into the holder (210) in a direction in which the insertion groove (215) penetrates (e.g., -Y direction or 'first direction').

In one embodiment, an inlet (not shown) may be formed between the outside of the holder (210) and the insertion groove (215) through which air outside the holder (210) can flow into the insertion groove (215).

Although not shown in the drawing, the holder (210) can accommodate various components of the inhaler (200) therein, for example, the holder (210) can accommodate at least a portion of a control unit (e.g., a control unit (110) of FIG. 1), at least one sensor (e.g., a sensing unit (120) of FIG. 1), and a battery (e.g., a battery (140) of FIG. 1).

In one embodiment, the stick (230) may be configured as a cylindrical or polygonal columnar shape, and may have a size and shape that can be inserted into the insertion groove (215) of the holder (210). The stick (230) may accommodate powder (P) therein.

In one embodiment, the mouthpiece (231) may be provided on one side of the stick (230). For example, the mouthpiece (231) may be provided in a direction opposite to a region (e.g., chamber (233) of FIG. 3A) that is inserted into the insertion groove (215) in the stick (230). The user may inhale air by applying negative pressure to the stick (230). For example, the user may inhale powder (P) or air or aerosol containing powder (P) while closing the mouth to the mouthpiece (231).

FIG. 3a is a drawing schematically illustrating the interior of an inhaler (200) according to one embodiment, and FIG. 3b is a drawing schematically illustrating the interior of an inhaler (200) according to one embodiment.

Specifically, FIGS. 3A and 3B are drawings regarding the interior of area A illustrated in FIG. 2, wherein FIG. 3A shows a state in which the stick (230) is partially inserted or being inserted into the insertion groove (215) of the holder (210), and FIG. 3B shows a state in which the stick (230) is substantially completely inserted into the insertion groove (215) of the holder (210).

Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, an inhaler (200) according to one embodiment may include at least a portion of a piercing member (220), an elastic member (225), a chamber (233), and a piercing hole (234).

In one embodiment, the stick (230) may include a chamber (233) for receiving a capsule (232). The chamber (233) may be a portion of the stick (230) that is inserted into the insertion groove (215). The chamber (233) may be a space for receiving or storing the capsule (232), or may be a space for restricting movement of the capsule (232).

In one embodiment, the capsule (232) may contain a powder (P) inside. The powder (P) may be a tobacco extract in a small particle state, or the powder (P) may be a composition or functional material including a pharmacological substance such as caffeine, taurine, aspirin, a sedative, a sleeping pill, a bronchodilator, a vaccine, or a substance such as free nicotine, a nicotine salt. However, this is merely exemplary, and the powder (P) inside the capsule (232) may be replaced with a liquid, a gas, or a combination of some of these.

In one embodiment, the piercing hole (234) may be an opening that opens from the outside of the stick (230) toward the chamber (233). The piercing hole (234) may be formed on a surface of the stick (230) facing the insertion groove (215), preferably in an area facing the piercing member (220). The piercing hole (234) may have a diameter that is greater than or equal to the circumference of the piercing member (220).

In one embodiment, the stick (230) may include an airflow channel (235) communicating from the chamber (233) to a mouthpiece (e.g., mouthpiece (231) of FIG. 2). The airflow channel (235) may be a conduit through which air containing powder (P) flows, and the airflow channel (235) and the chamber (233) may be partitioned by a mesh (236).

In one embodiment, the mesh (236) may allow the powder (P) and air to pass through, and restrict the passage of the capsules (232) or other foreign matter. Alternatively, the mesh (236) may filter out some of the powder (P) or help prevent the powder (P) from clumping together. For example, a single hole in the mesh (236) may have a diameter of 5 micrometers.

In one embodiment, when the capsule (232) is crushed, at least a portion of the powder (P) inside the capsule (232) may be released into the chamber (233). When the user inhales air from the stick (230) through the mouthpiece (231), the powder (P) passes through the mesh (236) and the airflow channel (235) to the mouthpiece (231) and may be inhaled by the user.

In one embodiment, the stick (230) may be disposable and may be replaced with another stick (230) after the powder (P) is exhausted. Alternatively, the stick (230) may be reusable and when the powder (P) is exhausted, the stick (230) may be refilled with a capsule (232) or powder (P) and used again.

In one embodiment, the piercing member (220) may be provided in the insertion groove (215) and may be formed to protrude in a direction (e.g., +Y direction) toward the stick (230) from the insertion groove (215). The piercing member (220) may crush the capsule (232). For example, when the stick (230) is inserted into the insertion groove (215) in a first direction (e.g., -Y direction), the piercing member (220) may be inserted into the chamber (233) of the stick (230) by penetrating at least a portion of the piercing hole (234), and the piercing member (220) may partially crush the capsule (232).

In one embodiment, the distal end of the piercing member (220) may have a sharp or pointed shape, for example, the piercing member (220) may be a needle or a sting. The distal end of the piercing member (220) may fracture a portion of the capsule (232) to form a perforation in the capsule (232). The capsule (232) may release powder (P) into the chamber (233) through the perforation fractured by the piercing member (220).

According to one embodiment, an elastic member (225) may be provided in the insertion groove (215). When a stick (230) is inserted into the insertion groove (215), the elastic member (225) may be deformed (e.g., compressed) by being pressed by the stick (230). When the elastic member (225) is deformed, the elastic member (225) may press the stick (230) in a direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., in the + Y direction) by the elastic force. The elastic member (225) may be configured as a coil spring capable of applying an elastic force.

FIG. 4a is a drawing schematically illustrating the interior of an inhaler (200) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 4a, an inhaler (200) according to one embodiment may include a vibrating member (250) (e.g., the vibrating member (191) of FIG. 1).

In one embodiment, when the capsule (232) is crushed by the piercing member (220), a perforation is formed in the capsule (232) that communicates with the chamber (233), and at least a portion of the powder (P) inside the capsule (232) can be discharged into the chamber (233) through the perforation. The powder (P) discharged into the chamber (233) passes through the mesh (236) into the airflow channel (235), and can pass through the airflow channel (235) and the mouthpiece (e.g., the mouthpiece (231) of FIG. 2) to be inhaled by the user.

In one embodiment, factors such as the amount of powder (P) that a user can inhale may also vary based on various parameters associated with the powder (P) being emitted from the capsule (232), such as the amount of powder (P) emitted per unit time, the density of the powder (P) in the air passing through the airflow channel (235), or the degree of dispersion of the emitted powder (P).

In one embodiment, by controlling the amount of powder (P) released from the capsule (232) per unit time (hereinafter, “the amount of powder (P) released”) through the vibrating member (250), the inhaler (200) can provide powder (P) to the user in accordance with the user’s conditions, usage environment, or user’s preference.

In one embodiment, the vibrating member (250) can provide vibration to the piercing member (220). Alternatively, the vibrating member (250) can directly or indirectly vibrate at least one of the capsule (232), the powder (P), or the chamber (233). Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, an embodiment of the inhaler (200) will be described based on the vibrating member (250) that vibrates the piercing member (220) with reference to the drawings.

In one embodiment, the vibrating member (250) may be implemented as an electronic vibrator that generates vibration when voltage (e.g., AC voltage) is applied. However, the actual implementation is not limited thereto, and may be implemented with various structures and configurations that can provide vibration to the piercing member (220).

In one embodiment, the vibrating member (250) can assist in the release of powder (P) from the capsule (232) by vibrating the piercing member (220). When the vibrating member (250) vibrates the piercing member (220), the perforation formed in the capsule (232) can become larger, or the vibration can be transmitted to the capsule (232) or the powder (P), and the amount of powder (P) released can increase.

The vibrating member (250) of one embodiment can vibrate the piercing member (220) in a direction (e.g., +/-Y direction) substantially parallel to the direction in which the stick (230) is inserted into the holder (210), i.e., the first direction (e.g., -Y direction).

In one embodiment, when the vibrating member (250) vibrates in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction, it may be effective to discharge the powder (P) located or stagnant between the capsule (232) and the piercing member (220). Alternatively, there is an advantage in that the diameter of the piercing hole (234) does not need to be increased to secure the vibration radius of the piercing member (220), and the powder (P) may be prevented from being discharged outside the stick (230) through the piercing hole (234). Alternatively, the vibration of the vibrating member (250) may be mainly transmitted to the piercing member (220) and the capsule (232), and vibration may be reduced or prevented from reaching the stick (230) or the holder (210).

The vibration member (250) of one embodiment can vibrate the piercing member (220) in a direction (e.g., X-Z plane direction) substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the stick (230) is inserted into the holder (210), i.e., the first direction (e.g., -Y direction). The vibration of the piercing member (220) can be transmitted to the capsule (232), and the vibration of the capsule (232) can promote the release of the powder (P).

In one embodiment, when the vibrating member (250) vibrates in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction, the piercing member (220) can increase the size of the perforation, or the piercing member (220) can secure a space between the capsule (232) and the piercing member (220) to more effectively discharge the powder (P). Alternatively, the capsule (232) can repeatedly collide with the chamber (233) due to the vibration, and through this, the discharge amount of the powder (P) can further increase.

The vibrating member (250) of one embodiment can vibrate the piercing member (220) in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction and a direction substantially vertical to the first direction. The vibrating member (250) can relatively increase the amount of powder (P) released by vibrating the capsule (232) three-dimensionally through the piercing member (220) compared to a simple one-way reciprocating motion.

In various embodiments, the inhaler (200) may need to reduce or increase the amount or rate of release of powder (P) released from the capsule (232) depending on various factors such as the user's breathing rate or depending on the user's preference. If it relies only on a single size of perforation, it may be difficult to meet the needs of various environments and various users.

For example, if the perforation is large, the powder (P) may be released in a large amount in a short period of time, and the density of the powder (P) inhaled by the user may become irregular or increase significantly. Or, if the perforation is small, the release of the powder (P) may become difficult, and a user with a small amount of lung breathing may have difficulty inhaling the powder (P). The vibrating member (250) can control the efficient release of the powder (P) from the capsule (232) by providing vibration to the capsule (232).

The inhaler (200) according to various embodiments of the present document can control the density of powder (P) inhaled by the user by forming a relatively small-sized perforation in the capsule (232) through the piercing member (220) and controlling the amount of powder (P) emitted from the capsule (232) per unit time through the vibrating member (250).

FIG. 4b is a drawing schematically illustrating the interior of an inhaler (200) according to one embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 4b, the inhaler (200) according to one embodiment may include a sub-vibration member (255) (e.g., the vibrating member (191) of FIG. 1).

In explaining Fig. 4b, any overlapping content with the above-described content regarding the inhaler (200) will be omitted.

In one embodiment, the sub-vibration member (255) can provide vibration to the chamber (233). The sub-vibration member (255) can assist the powder (P) discharged into the chamber (233) to move into the airflow channel (235) by directly or indirectly vibrating the chamber (233). Alternatively, the sub-vibration member (255) can assist the vibration member (250) to facilitate the discharge of the powder (P) from the capsule (232).

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4b, the sub-vibration member (255) may be connected to the elastic member (225) to provide vibration to the chamber (233) through the elastic member (225). Alternatively, without limitation thereto, the sub-vibration member (255) may be implemented in various structures for transmitting vibration to the chamber (233), and for example, the sub-vibration member (255) may be directly connected to the stick (230) or may have a structure that is arranged in the holder (210) to apply impact to the stick (230).

In one embodiment, the chamber (233) can provide kinetic energy to the powder (P) inside the chamber (233) by vibration. Alternatively, the powder (P) can be evenly spread and moved along the airflow by the vibration of the chamber (233). Alternatively, the vibration of the chamber (233) can be transmitted to the capsule (232), and the sub-vibration member (255) can promote the release of the powder (P) by vibrating the capsule (232).

The sub-vibration member (255) of one embodiment can vibrate the chamber (233) in a direction substantially horizontal (e.g., +/- Y direction) to the first direction (e.g., -Y direction) in which the stick (230) is inserted into the holder (210). In this case, the elastic member (255) can assist and strengthen the vibration of the sub-vibration member (255). Alternatively, since the chamber (233) vibrates in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction, it may be advantageous to move the powder (P) remaining on the bottom surface of the chamber (233), and there may be no need to separately increase the opening of the insertion groove (215) for the vibration of the chamber (233).

The sub-vibration member (255) of one embodiment can vibrate the chamber (233) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., X-Z plane direction), i.e., the direction in which the stick (230) is inserted into the holder (210). In this case, the chamber (233) can repeatedly strike the capsule (232) and induce the release of the powder (P) more effectively. Alternatively, as the chamber (233) vibrates in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction, the powder (P) can be evenly spread in a substantially horizontal direction of the chamber (233).

The sub-vibration member (255) of one embodiment can vibrate the chamber (233) in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction and in a direction substantially vertical to the first direction. The sub-vibration member (255) can relatively increase the discharge amount of powder (P) by vibrating the chamber (233) in three dimensions, compared to a simple one-way reciprocating motion.

In one embodiment, a processor (e.g., processor (110) of FIG. 1) acquires information on the operation of the influencer (200) from various types of sensors (e.g., sensing unit (120) of FIG. 1), and based on this, changes various factors such as the vibration frequency, vibration intensity, and vibration time of the vibration member (250) and/or sub-vibration member (255), and can control each of their vibrations.

For example, the processor (110) can receive information about the airflow inside the stick (230) through a puff sensor (e.g., the puff sensor (126) of FIG. 1), and if it is determined that the airflow is insufficient, the processor (110) can increase the vibration intensity or frequency of the vibration member (250) and/or the sub-vibration member (255) to increase the amount of powder (P) released.

Alternatively, the processor (110) may receive a separate input signal from a user input unit (e.g., a user input unit (160) of FIG. 1) or a communication unit (e.g., a communication unit (180) of FIG. 1) and control the vibration of the vibration member (250) and/or the sub-vibration member (255) based on the input signal.

For example, the processor (110) can control the vibration of the vibration member (250) and/or the sub-vibration member (255) according to various factors such as the user's breathing volume, the user's preference, the usage environment, etc. The inhaler (200) of various embodiments of the present document can help the user smoothly inhale powder (P) and provide a user-customized inhaler (200).

Fig. 5a is a cross-sectional view of a stick (230) according to one embodiment, and Fig. 5b is a cross-sectional view of a stick (230) according to one embodiment. Specifically, Figs. 5a and 5b are cross-sectional views of a portion of a stick (230) separated from a holder (210), respectively.

Referring to FIGS. 5a and 5b, the stick (230) may include at least one of a sealing member (237) or a door (238).

As shown in FIG. 5A, the sealing member (237) can seal the piercing hole (234). The sealing member (237) can be broken by the piercing member (220) during the process of inserting the stick (230) into the insertion groove (215). For example, the stick (230) can be disposable. Alternatively, the stick (230) can be reusable, and after the sealing member (237) and the capsule (232) are broken, they can be replaced and reused.

In one embodiment, the sealing member (237) can protect the chamber (233) so that water or foreign substances do not enter the chamber (233) during the manufacturing and transportation process of the stick (230). Alternatively, the sealing member (237) can limit the area of the piercing hole (234) that is broken by the piercing member (220), thereby preventing powder (P) from being released outside the stick (230) through the piercing hole (234).

As shown in FIG. 5b, the door (238) can selectively open and close the piercing hole (234). The door (238) can be opened before or while the stick (230) is inserted into the insertion groove (215). The door (238) can be moved by the door hinge (239).

For example, the door hinge (239) can move the door (238) substantially horizontally (e.g., in the X-Z plane) or can tilt the door (238) substantially vertically (e.g., in the +/-Y direction).

In one embodiment, the door (238) can be opened when the inhaler (200) is in a used or ready-to-use state, and closed when not in use. The door (238) can protect the chamber (233) from water or foreign substances entering the chamber (233) during the manufacturing and transportation of the stick (230). Alternatively, used or crushed capsules (232) in the chamber (233) can be replaced through the door (238).

In one embodiment, a processor (e.g., processor (110) of FIG. 1) may acquire information about the engagement of the stick (230) from various types of sensors (e.g., sensing unit of FIG. 1) and control the operation of the door hinge (239) based on the information.

For example, the processor (110) can detect whether the stick (230) is inserted or being inserted into the insertion groove (215) through an insertion detection sensor (e.g., an insertion detection sensor (124) of FIG. 1), and based on this, can control the door hinge (239) to open the door (238) so that the piercing member (220) can pass through the piercing hole (234). Alternatively, without being limited thereto, the door (238) can be manually opened and closed by the user. For example, the user can directly open and close the door (238), or the inserter (200) can be provided with a separate switch (not shown) connected to the door (238), and the user can open and close the door (238) by operating the switch (not shown).

Although the embodiments have been described with limited drawings as described above, those skilled in the art can apply various technical modifications and variations based on the above. For example, appropriate results can be achieved even if the described techniques are performed in a different order from the described method, and/or components of the described system, structure, device, circuit, etc. are combined or combined in a different form from the described method, or are replaced or substituted by other components or equivalents. Therefore, other implementations, other embodiments, and equivalents to the claims also fall within the scope of the claims described below.

Claims (15)

In the Inhaler,
A stick having a chamber for accommodating a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber;
A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction;
A piercing member provided in the above insertion groove, which penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule when the stick is inserted; and
An inhaler comprising a vibrating member that provides vibration to the piercing member when voltage is applied. In the first paragraph,
The above vibration absence is,
An inhaler that vibrates the piercing member in a direction parallel to the first direction. In the first paragraph,
The above vibration absence is,
An inhaler that vibrates the piercing member in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. In the first paragraph,
The above vibration absence is,
An inhaler that vibrates the piercing member in a direction substantially horizontal and substantially perpendicular to the first direction. In the first paragraph,
A puff sensor that detects the airflow inside the stick; and
An inhaler further comprising a processor that receives a detection result from the puff sensor and controls vibration of the vibration member. In the first paragraph,
An inhaler further comprising a sub-vibration member for providing vibration to the chamber. In the Inhaler,
A stick having a chamber for accommodating a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber;
A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction;
A piercing member provided in the above insertion groove, which penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule when the stick is inserted;
A vibrating member that provides vibration to the above piercing member;
a sub-vibration member providing vibration to the chamber; and
It includes an elastic member provided in the above insertion groove and pressurized by the stick when the stick is inserted,
The above sub-vibration absence is,
An inhaler that provides vibration to the chamber of the stick through the elastic member. In the Inhaleor,
A stick having a chamber for accommodating a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber;
A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction;
A piercing member provided in the above insertion groove, which penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule when the stick is inserted;
a vibrating member that provides vibration to the above piercing member; and
Including a sub-vibration member that provides vibration to the chamber,
The above sub-vibration absence is,
An inhaler that vibrates the chamber in a direction parallel to the first direction. In the Inhaler,
A stick having a chamber for accommodating a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber;
A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction;
A piercing member provided in the above insertion groove, which penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule when the stick is inserted;
a vibrating member that provides vibration to the above piercing member; and
Including a sub-vibration member that provides vibration to the chamber,
The above sub-vibration absence is,
An inhaler that vibrates the chamber in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction. In the Inhaler,
A stick having a chamber for accommodating a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber;
A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction;
A piercing member provided in the above insertion groove, which penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule when the stick is inserted;
a vibrating member that provides vibration to the above piercing member; and
Including a sub-vibration member that provides vibration to the chamber,
The above sub-vibration absence is,
An inhaler that vibrates the chamber in a direction substantially horizontal and substantially vertical to the first direction. In the Inhaler,
A stick having a chamber for accommodating a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber;
A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction;
A piercing member provided in the above insertion groove, which penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule when the stick is inserted;
A vibrating member that provides vibration to the above piercing member;
A sub-vibration member providing vibration to the above chamber;
A puff sensor that detects the airflow inside the stick; and
An inhaler comprising a processor that receives a detection result from the puff sensor and controls vibration of the vibration member and the sub-vibration member. In the first paragraph,
The above stick is,
A mouthpiece provided in the opposite direction of the above chamber;
an airflow channel communicating from said chamber to said mouthpiece; and
An inhaler comprising a mesh dividing the airflow channel and the chamber. In the first paragraph,
The above stick is,
An inserter further comprising a sealing member that seals the piercing hole and is broken by the piercing member when the stick is inserted into the insertion groove. In the first paragraph,
The above stick is,
An inhaler comprising a door for selectively opening and closing the piercing hole. In Article 14,
An insertion detection sensor that detects whether the stick is inserted into the insertion groove;
a door hinge for moving the above door; and
An inserter further comprising a processor that receives a detection result from the insertion detection sensor and controls the door hinge to open and close the door.

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