Inhaler article having a folded distal end

Abstract

The inhaler article comprises a body extending along a longitudinal axis from the mouthpiece end to the distal end, a capsule cavity defined within the body, and a capsule cavity disposed within the capsule cavity. The capsule cavity is bordered downstream by a filter element and bordered upstream and distally by a deformable element, wherein the deformable element is deformed to expose an open distal end and allows the inhaler article to accommodate a vortex or rotational inhalation airflow during consumption.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inhaler article and an inhaler system comprising a holder and an inhaler article. The inhaler article comprises a wrapped or folded distal end that is deformable to receive an inhaled airflow into the inhaler article during consumption. Background Technology

[0002] Dry powder inhalers are not always fully suitable for delivering dry powder particles to the lungs at inhalation rates or airflow rates within the range of inhalation rates or airflow rates of conventional smoking regimens. Dry powder inhalers can be complex to operate or may contain moving parts. Dry powder inhalers often attempt to deliver the entire dry powder dose or capsule load in a single breath. Prior art literature

[65535] International Patent Publication WO 2019 / 186337 A1 (2019.10.03) International Patent Publication WO 2018 / 007886 A1 (2018.01.11) The problem to be solved

[0003] It would be desirable to provide an inhaler article that minimizes complex parts and enables high-speed assembly of the inhaler article. It would also be desirable to provide an inhaler article that includes a deformable sanitary barrier to expose an intake air inlet at the distal end of the inhaler article.

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an inhaler system that efficiently depletes the capsule of particles during consumption. It would be desirable to provide an inhaler article that accommodates a swirling inhalation airflow into the inhaler article. It would be desirable to provide an inhaler article that is substantially biodegradable. It would be desirable to provide an inhaler article formed from a material used in the manufacture of conventional cigarettes or smoking articles.

[0005] It would be desirable to provide a holder capable of activating and maintaining an inhaler item and delivering a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow to the inhaler item during consumption. It would be desirable to provide an inhaler system comprising a low-profile and reusable holder for an inhaler item capable of activating the inhaler item. It would be desirable to provide a nicotine powder inhaler system that delivers nicotine particles to the lungs at an inhalation or airflow rate within the inhalation or airflow rate of a conventional smoking regime. It would also be desirable to deliver nicotine powder to an inhaler item having a shape similar to a conventional cigarette. means of solving the problem

[0006] The present disclosure relates to an inhaler article. The inhaler article is configured to receive a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow during consumption when a deformable element bordering the upstream end of a capsule cavity is ruptured. The inhaler article may receive a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow from a holder configured to induce a swirling inhalation airflow in the inhaler article during consumption. The holder and the inhaler article may form an inhaler system in which the present disclosure is also induced.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a body extends along a longitudinal axis from a mouthpiece end to a distal end, a capsule cavity is defined within the body, and a capsule is disposed within the capsule cavity. The capsule cavity is bordered downstream by a filter element and bordered upstream by a deformable element. The deformable element is deformable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In a closed configuration, the deformable element defines a closed boundary bordering the capsule cavity. In an open configuration, the deformable element defines an opening through which air can flow into the capsule cavity.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, an inhaler article comprises a body extending along a longitudinal axis from a mouthpiece end to a distal end, a capsule cavity defined within the body, and a capsule disposed within the capsule cavity. The capsule cavity is bordered downstream by a filter element and bordered upstream and distal by a deformable element, wherein the deformable element is deformed to expose an open distal end and allows the inhaler article to accommodate a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow during consumption.

[0009] Advantageously, the inhaler article has a deformable element that defines a sanitary barrier at the upstream end of the capsule cavity.

[0010] The deformable element may be configured to deform and expose the capsule cavity. The upstream boundary of the capsule cavity may be defined by the deformable element forming the closed end of the inhaler article. The upstream boundary of the capsule cavity may be defined by the deformable element forming the open end of the inhaler article.

[0011] The deformable element may be folded at its distal end or at the distal end of the body of the inhaler article. Preferably, the deformable element may be folded into a fan fold at its distal end or at the distal end of the body of the inhaler article. The folded section of the deformable element may be folded back toward itself to define an open aperture for accommodating a vortex or rotational inhalation airflow.

[0012] Advantageously, the deformable element is deformed to expose an open distal end. This allows the suction article to accommodate a vortex or rotational suction airflow during consumption, reduces the complexity of the suction article, and enables high-speed assembly.

[0013] The deformable element may be arranged to contact the holder such that, when inserted into the holder, the deformable element deforms from a closed configuration to an open configuration. The term "deformation" should be understood to mean that the shape of the deformable element is changeable. The deformation of the deformable element may include elastic deformation, where the deformable element returns to a closed configuration when no force is applied thereto. Alternatively, the deformation of the deformable element may include plastic deformation, where the deformable element remains in an open configuration after the application of a force.

[0014] At least a portion of the deformable element may be formed from a foldable material. In other examples, the deformable element may include a hinged element that moves around a pivot to move between an open configuration and a closed configuration, or a plurality of hinged elements. The deformable element may include a fan fold. At least a portion of the deformable element may be formed from a cellulose material. At least a portion of the deformable element may be formed from paper.

[0015] Advantageously, forming a deformable element of a foldable material enables the deformable element to reliably rupture or open. The foldable material can also improve the assembly of the capsule cavity and provide high-speed assembly of the inhaler article. Advantageously, the deformable element formed of a cellulose material or paper is substantially biodegradable and can reduce the environmental impact of the inhaler article.

[0016] The deformable element can define at least a portion of the longitudinal sidewalls of the capsule cavity. The deformable element can define the majority of the capsule cavity. The deformable element can define the upstream boundary and sidewalls of the capsule cavity.

[0017] Advantageously, the deformable element can provide a protective cover or sanitary barrier for the capsule and inhaler article retained before consumption of the inhaler article.

[0018] The wrapping layer may surround the filter element and the deformable element. The wrapping layer may combine the filter element, the capsule cavity, and the deformable element into a series axial border. The deformable element may extend beyond the wrapping layer. The deformable element may extend beyond the wrapping layer in a range of about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, or about 1 mm to about 4 mm, or about 2 mm to about 3 mm. The wrapping layer may be formed of a cellulose material or paper.

[0019] Advantageously, a wrapping layer formed of cellulose material is substantially biodegradable and can reduce the environmental impact of the inhaler article. Combining the inhaler article elements with the wrapping layer provides high-speed assembly of the inhaler article.

[0020] The capsule cavity and the deformable element have substantially the same inner diameter in the range of about 6 mm to about 8 mm.

[0021] The capsule may contain pharmaceutically active particles. For example, the pharmaceutically active particles may contain nicotine. The pharmaceutically active particles may have a mass-centered aerodynamic diameter of about 5 μm or less, or in the range of about 0.5 μm to about 4 μm, or in the range of about 1 μm to about 3 μm.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, an inhaler system comprises an inhaler article as described herein and a holder for the inhaler article, wherein the holder is configured to provide a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow to the inhaler article.

[0023] Advantageously, the deformable element can cooperate with the features of the holder to firmly hold the inhaler article within the holder. For example, the deformable element can be deflected toward the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article in an open configuration so that the inhaler article is gripped onto the holder and thus held in place within the holder.

[0024] Advantageously, incorporating a vortex-generating element into a reusable holder can simplify the configuration of the inhaler article and reduce the complexity of the inhaler system. Inhaler articles that accommodate a vortex inhalation airflow are easier to manufacture and can have a simpler configuration than inhaler articles that require inducing a vortex inhalation airflow. Less complex inhaler articles can also provide a lower environmental burden.

[0025] The holder may include a sleeve configured to hold an inhaler article within a housing cavity. The sleeve includes a sleeve cavity and may be movable within the housing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the housing. The sleeve includes a first open end and a second opposing end. The second opposing end of the sleeve may be configured to allow air to enter the sleeve cavity. The second opposing end of the sleeve may include a sleeve tubular element extending into the sleeve cavity. The sleeve tubular element extends through a deformable element of the inhaler article and is configured to secure the inhaler article within the sleeve.

[0026] The sleeve tubular element can form the upstream boundary of the capsule cavity.

[0027] The holder may further include a through element fixed to the inner surface of the housing and extending therefrom. The through element may be configured to extend into the sleeve cavity along the longitudinal axis of the housing through a second opposing end of the sleeve and to activate the capsule.

[0028] The second opposing end of the sleeve may be configured to induce a vortex or rotational airflow in the intake airflow entering the capsule cavity.

[0029] Advantageously, using a reusable holder to generate a rotational or vortex airflow can improve the uniform generation of the rotational or vortex airflow when provided to multiple inhaler articles. Such rotational or vortex airflow can be provided to the capsule cavity of an inhaler article housed within the sleeve of the holder. The rotational or vortex airflow induces the capsule contained within the capsule cavity to rotate the particles and release the particles into the rotational or vortex airflow toward the consumer.

[0030] Advantageously, providing a feature on the second opposing end of the sleeve that engages with the received inhaler article can improve a reliable airflow connection from the vortex-inducing sleeve to the inhaler article received within the sleeve. The deformable element can improve the interference fit to provide a secure engagement of the inhaler article received within the sleeve so that the inhaler article does not fall out of the sleeve or the associated holder.

[0031] Advantageously, reusable holders that induce rotational or vortex airflow reduce the complexity of associated consumable inhaler products. This can reduce the overall manufacturing cost of these inhaler systems and improve the reliability or efficiency of capsule particle depletion.

[0032] Advantageously, the inhaler system provides an inhaler system that minimizes moving parts. Advantageously, the inhaler system utilizes a separate holder that induces a rotational or swirling airflow into an inhaler article housed within the holder. This allows the holder to be reused and the inhaler article to be disposed of after a single use. Advantageously, the inhaler system efficiently delivers nicotine particles to the lungs at an inhalation or airflow rate within the inhalation or airflow rate of a conventional smoking system. The inhaler delivers nicotine powder to an inhaler article having a shape similar to a conventional cigarette. The inhaler system described herein may deliver dry powder to the lungs at an inhalation or airflow rate within the inhalation or airflow rate of a conventional smoking system. The consumer may take multiple inhalations or "puffs," each "puff" delivering a portion of the dry powder contained in a capsule within a capsule cavity. Such an inhaler article may have a shape similar to a conventional cigarette and may mimic conventional smoking. Such an inhaler article may be simple to manufacture and convenient for the consumer to use.

[0033] Airflow management through the capsule cavity of the inhaler article may cause rotation of the capsule contained therein during inhalation and consumption. The capsule may contain particles containing nicotine (also referred to as “nicotine powder” or “nicotine particles”) and optionally particles containing flavor (also referred to as “flavor particles”). Rotation of the penetration capsule may cause the nicotine particles released into the inhaled air moving from the penetration capsule through the inhaler article to suspend and aerosolize them. Flavor particles may be larger than the nicotine particles and may help the nicotine particles be delivered into the user’s lungs, but the flavor particles preferably remain in the user’s mouth or oral cavity. The nicotine particles and optionally the flavor particles may be delivered to the inhaler article at an inhalation rate or airflow rate within the inhalation rate or airflow rate of a conventional smoking regimen.

[0034] The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives, such as free-base nicotine and nicotine salts.

[0035] The terms "flavoring agent" or "flavor" refer to organoleptic compounds, compositions, or materials intended to alter and modify the taste or aroma characteristics of nicotine while it is consumed or inhaled.

[0036] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the relative positions of the elements of the described holder, inhaler article, and inhaler system in relation to the direction of the inhalation airflow when the inhalation airflow is drawn through the holder, inhaler article, and the body of the inhaler system.

[0037] The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used to describe the relative positions of a holder, an inhaler article, or a component or part of a system. A holder or element (e.g., a sleeve) forming a holder according to the present invention has a proximal end that receives an inhaler article and an opposing distal end that may be a closed end, or has an end closer to the proximal end of the holder. An inhaler article according to the present invention has a proximal end. When in use, nicotine particles exit the proximal end of the inhaler article to be delivered to the user. The inhaler article has a distal end opposite the proximal end. The proximal end of the inhaler article may be referred to as a mouse end.

[0038] An inhaler article can be combined with a holder to form an inhaler system. The holder is configured to provide a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow to the inhaler article. The holder also activates the inhaler article by penetrating the capsule, thereby providing reliable activation of the capsule within the inhaler article (by perforating the capsule with the penetrating element of the holder), releasing the particles contained within the capsule, and enabling the article to deliver the particles to the consumer. Although the holder is separate from the inhaler article, the consumer may use both the inhaler article and the holder while consuming the particles released within the inhaler article. Multiple such inhaler articles can be combined with the holder to form a system or kit. A single holder may be used on 10 or more, 25 or more, 50 or more, or 100 or more inhaler articles to activate (perforate or penetrate) the capsule contained within each inhaler article and to provide reliable activation and optionally a visual indication (marking) for each inhaler article.

[0039] The present disclosure relates to an inhaler article. The inhaler article is configured to receive a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow during consumption. The inhaler article may receive a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow from a holder configured to induce a swirling inhalation airflow in the inhaler article during consumption. The holder and the inhaler article may form an inhaler system in which the present disclosure is also induced.

[0040] The holder may be configured to rupture or open a deformable element defining the upstream boundary of the inhaler item capsule cavity. When the deformable element is opened or ruptured, a vortex or rotational inhalation airflow may flow into the capsule cavity through the void formed by the ruptured or opened deformable element.

[0041] The inhaler article comprises a body extending along a longitudinal axis from the mouthpiece end to the distal end, a capsule cavity defined within the body, and a capsule disposed within the capsule cavity. The capsule cavity is bordered downstream by a filter element and bordered upstream or distally by a deformable element. The deformable element defines a closed boundary bordering the capsule cavity.

[0042] The inhaler article accommodates a vortex or rotational inhalation airflow when a deformable element ruptures or opens at the distal end of the inhaler article. The vortex or rotational inhalation airflow traverses the inhaler article from the distal end to the capsule cavity through the filter and out of the mouthpiece end of the inhaler article. The inhalation airflow preferably flows in alignment with the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article when flowing into the capsule cavity.

[0043] The inhaler article is configured to receive a vortex inhalation stream directly into the capsule cavity when a deformable element ruptures or opens at the distal end of the inhaler article. The vortex inhalation stream continues downstream through the capsule cavity and induces rotation of the capsule received or positioned within the capsule cavity. The activated capsule releases a dose of particles downstream into the vortex inhalation stream to the consumer through the mouthpiece. Thus, the vortex inhalation stream is generated upstream from the inhaler article, enters the distal or uppermost end of the inhaler article, and is delivered into the capsule cavity to rotate or swivel the capsule positioned within the capsule cavity.

[0044] The inhaler body may be similar in size and shape to a smoking article or a cigarette. The inhaler body may have an elongated body extending along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The inhaler body may have a substantially uniform outer diameter along the length of the elongated body. The inhaler body may have a circular cross-section that may be uniform along the length of the elongated body. The inhaler body may have an outer diameter in the range of about 6 mm to about 10 mm, or about 7 mm to about 10 mm, or about 7 mm to about 9 mm, or about 7 mm to about 8 mm, or about 7.2 mm. The inhaler body may have a length (along the longitudinal axis) in the range of about 40 mm to about 80 mm, or about 40 mm to about 70 mm, or about 40 mm to about 50 mm, or about 48 mm.

[0045] A filter element located downstream of the capsule cavity may extend from the capsule cavity to the mouthpiece end of the inhaler article. The filter element may have a length ranging from about 10 mm to about 30 mm, preferably about 15 mm to about 25 mm, more preferably about 20 mm to about 22 mm.

[0046] The deformable element is configured to deform and expose the capsule cavity. The deformable element is configured to rupture or open to expose the capsule cavity. The deformable element is configured to expose substantially the entire opening diameter of the capsule cavity. The deformable element is configured to expose the entire opening diameter of the capsule cavity.

[0047] The deformable element may define at least a portion of the longitudinal sidewall of the capsule cavity. The deformable element may define the majority of the capsule cavity. The deformable element may define the distal or upstream end of the capsule cavity.

[0048] The deformable element can be formed from cellulose material. At least a portion of the deformable element can be formed from paper. The deformable element can provide a barrier to reduce or prevent contaminants or foreign substances from entering the capsule cavity.

[0049] The capsule cavity sidewall extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. A deformable element may define the distal or upstream end of the capsule cavity closure and at least a portion of the capsule cavity sidewall.

[0050] The deformable element may define a tubular element having a closed upstream end. The deformable element may define the closed distal or upstream end of the capsule cavity and at least 50% of the capsule cavity sidewall. The deformable element may define the closed distal or upstream end of the capsule cavity and at least 75% of the capsule cavity sidewall. The deformable element may define the closed distal or upstream end of the capsule cavity and the entire capsule cavity sidewall. The deformable element may define the entire capsule cavity excluding the downstream boundary surface defined by the filter element. The deformable element may be a paper layer extending from the filter element to the closed upstream end.

[0051] The deformable element has an outer surface or diameter that contacts the body or forms the distal end of the inhaler article. When the deformable element ruptures or opens, inhaled air flows directly into the capsule cavity through the center of the deformable element. The deformable element may have a diameter substantially equal to the inner diameter of the capsule cavity.

[0052] The deformable element may have an outer diameter in the range of about 6 mm to about 8 mm, or about 7.0 mm to about 7.2 mm. The deformable element may have an inner diameter in the range of about 6 mm to about 7.2 mm or about 6.5 mm to about 6.7 mm.

[0053] The deformable element may be formed of paper. The deformable element may be formed of one or more layers of paper. The deformable element may be formed of paper having a weight in the range of about 50 gsm to about 150 gsm, or about 75 gsm to about 125 gsm, or about 90 gsm to about 110 gsm.

[0054] The deformable element may have a thickness in the range of about 50 μm to about 200 μm, or about 100 μm to about 150 μm, or about 110 μm to about 130 μm.

[0055] When ruptured or opened, the deformable element can define an opening having an opening diameter that is at least about 80% or at least about 90% of the diameter of the capsule cavity.

[0056] The deformable element can be easily ruptured to allow inhaled air to enter the capsule cavity. For example, the deformable element may be configured to prevent manual insertion of the inhaler article into the holder by the user without the use of additional tools to assist in the application of force by the user. The deformable element may rupture or open to expose substantially the entire upstream end of the capsule cavity. The deformable element may provide a protective cover or sanitary barrier for the capsule and inhaler article retained before the inhaler article is consumed.

[0057] The wrapping layer can define the body of the inhaler article. The wrapping layer can surround the filter element and the deformable element. The wrapping layer can combine the filter element and the deformable element. The wrapping layer can combine the filter element and the deformable element at a serial axial interface. The wrapping layer can be formed of a cellulose material.

[0058] The deformable element may extend beyond the wrapping layer. The deformable element may extend beyond the wrapping layer in a range of about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, or about 1 mm to about 4 mm, or about 2 mm to about 3 mm.

[0059] A capsule cavity may define a cylindrical space configured to contain a capsule. For example, the capsule may have a cylindrical shape or a circular cross-section. The capsule cavity may have a substantially uniform or uniform diameter along the length of the capsule cavity. The capsule cavity may have a fixed cavity length. The capsule cavity has a cavity inner diameter orthogonal to the longitudinal axis, and the capsule has a capsule outer diameter. The capsule cavity may be sized to contain a cylindrical capsule. The capsule cavity may have a substantially cylindrical or cylindrical cross-section along the length of the capsule cavity. The capsule cavity may have a uniform inner diameter. The capsule may have an outer diameter that is about 80% to about 95% of the inner diameter of the capsule cavity. The configuration of the capsule cavity for the capsule may facilitate limited movement of the capsule during activation or penetration of the capsule.

[0060] The capsule cavity can be defined by a deformable element having a diameter ranging from about 6 mm to about 7 mm or about 6.6 mm.

[0061] The capsule cavity may be defined by tubular elements of the inhaler article. The tubular elements may be aligned and bordered with the tubular elements and filter elements forming the distal end of the inhaler article, and may be joined between them. These elements may be joined with a wrapper. The open tubular elements defining the capsule cavity may be formed from biodegradable materials such as cardboard or board paper.

[0062] The configuration of the capsule cavity for the capsule can facilitate the stable rotation of the capsule within the capsule cavity. The longitudinal axis of the capsule can rotate stably coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the inhaler body during inhalation. The configuration of the capsule cavity for the capsule can facilitate the rotation of the capsule with some vibration within the capsule cavity.

[0063] Stable rotation means the longitudinal axis of the inhaler body that is substantially parallel or coaxial with the rotation axis of the capsule. Stable rotation may mean the absence of a matrix of rotating capsules. Preferably, the longitudinal axis of the inhaler body may be substantially coaxial with the rotation axis of the capsule. Stable rotation of the capsule may provide uniform droplet entrainment of a portion of nicotine particles from the capsule over two or more, five or more, or ten or more "puffs" or inhalations by the consumer.

[0064] The capsule may be sealed within the inhaler article before consumption. The inhaler article may be contained within a sealed or hermetic container or bag. The inhaler article may include a deformable element (closing the distal end of the inhaler article) and one or more peelable or removable sealing layers for the air outlet or mouthpiece of the inhaler article.

[0065] The capsule may rotate longitudinally or about a central axis as air flows through the inhaler article. The capsule may be formed of a hermetic material that can be penetrated or perforated by a penetration element that can be separated from or coupled to the inhaler to form a single hole. The capsule may be formed of a metal or polymer material that serves to retain contaminants away from the capsule but can be penetrated or perforated by a penetration element before consuming the nicotine particles within the capsule. The capsule may be formed of a polymer material. The polymer material may be hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC). The capsule may be a size 1 to size 4 capsule, or a size 3 capsule.

[0066] The capsule may contain pharmaceutically active particles. For example, the pharmaceutically active particles may contain nicotine. The pharmaceutically active particles may have a mass-centered aerodynamic diameter of about 5 μm or less, or in the range of about 0.5 μm to about 4 μm, or in the range of about 1 μm to about 3 μm.

[0067] The capsule may contain nicotine particles containing nicotine (also referred to as “nicotine powder” or “nicotine particles”) and optionally particles containing flavor (also referred to as “flavor particles”). The capsule may contain a predetermined amount of nicotine particles and optional flavor particles. The capsule may contain nicotine particles sufficient to provide at least two puffs or “puffs,” or at least about five puffs or “puffs,” or at least about ten puffs or “puffs.” The capsule may contain nicotine particles sufficient to provide about five to about fifty puffs or “puffs,” or about ten to about thirty puffs or “puffs.” Each inhalation or "puff" can deliver about 0.1 mg to about 3 mg of nicotine particles to the user's lungs, or about 0.2 mg to about 2 mg of nicotine particles to the user's lungs, or about 1 mg of nicotine particles to the user's lungs.

[0068] Nicotine particles may have any useful nicotine concentration based on the specific formulation used. Nicotine particles may have at least about 1 wt% nicotine, up to about 30 wt% nicotine, or about 2 wt% to about 25 wt% nicotine, or about 3 wt% to about 20 wt% nicotine, or about 4 wt% to about 15 wt% nicotine, or about 5 wt% to about 13 wt% nicotine. Preferably, about 50 μg to about 150 μg of nicotine may be delivered to the user's lungs each time it is inhaled or "puffed."

[0069] The capsule may have or contain at least about 5 mg of nicotine particles or at least about 10 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule may have or contain less than about 900 mg of nicotine particles, or less than about 300 mg of nicotine particles, or less than 150 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule may have or contain about 5 mg to about 300 mg of nicotine particles or about 10 mg to about 200 mg of nicotine particles.

[0070] When flavor particles are mixed or combined with nicotine particles inside the capsule, the flavor particles may be present in an amount that provides the desired flavor to each inhalation or "puff" delivered to the user.

[0071] Nicotine particles may have any useful size distribution for inhalation delivery into the user's lungs. The capsule may contain particles other than nicotine particles. Nicotine particles and other particles may form a powder system.

[0072] The capsule may have or contain at least about 5 mg of dry powder (also referred to as a powder system) or at least about 10 mg of dry powder. The capsule may have or contain less than about 900 mg of dry powder, or less than about 300 mg of dry powder, or less than about 150 mg of dry powder. The capsule may have or contain about 5 mg to about 300 mg of dry powder, or about 10 mg to about 200 mg of dry powder, or about 25 mg to about 100 mg of dry powder.

[0073] The dry powder or powder system may have at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% based on the weight of the powder system contained in nicotine particles having a particle size of about 5 μm or less, or in the range of about 1 μm to about 5 μm.

[0074] Particles containing nicotine may have a mass center aerodynamic diameter (mass center aerodynamic diameter) of about 5 μm or less, or in the range of about 0.5 μm to about 4 μm, or in the range of about 1 μm to about 3 μm, or in the range of about 1.5 μm to about 2.5 μm. The mass center aerodynamic diameter is preferably measured with a cascade impactor.

[0075] Particles containing flavor may have a mass center aerodynamic diameter in the range of about 20 μm or more, or about 50 μm or more, or about 50 μm to about 200 μm, or about 50 μm to about 150 μm. The mass center aerodynamic diameter is preferably measured with a cascade impactor.

[0076] The dry powder may have an average diameter of about 60 μm or less, or in the range of about 1 μm to about 40 μm, or in the range of about 1.5 μm to about 25 μm. The average diameter refers to the average diameter per mass and is preferably measured by laser diffraction, laser diffusion, or electron microscopy.

[0077] Nicotine in a powder system or nicotine particles may be pharmaceutically acceptable free-base nicotine, or a nicotine salt or nicotine salt hydrate. Useful nicotine salts or nicotine salt hydrates include, for example, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine citrate, nicotine aspartate, nicotine lactate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine salicylate, nicotine fumarate, nicotine mono-pyruvate, nicotine glutamate, or nicotine hydrochloride. Compounds that form salts or salt hydrates in combination with nicotine may be selected based on their expected pharmacological effects.

[0078] The nicotine particles preferably contain amino acids. Preferably, the amino acid may be a leucine such as L-leucine. Providing the nicotine-containing particles with an amino acid such as L-leucine can reduce the adhesion of the nicotine-containing particles and reduce the attractive forces between the nicotine particles, thereby reducing the aggregation of the nicotine particles. Similarly, the adhesion to the flavor-containing particles can also be reduced, so the aggregation of the nicotine particles together with the flavor particles can also be reduced. Therefore, the powder system described herein may be a free-flowing material and has a stable relative particle size of each powder component even when the nicotine particles and flavor particles are combined.

[0079] Preferably, the nicotine may be a surface-modified nicotine salt when the nicotine salt particles comprise a coating or composite particle. A preferred coating or composite material may be L-leucine. One particularly useful nicotine particle may be a nicotine bicarbonate having L-leucine.

[0080] The powder system may include a group of flavor particles. The flavor particles may have any useful size distribution for selective inhalation delivery into the user's mouth or buccal oral cavity.

[0081] The powder system may have at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% based on the weight of the flavor particle group of the powder system contained in particles having a particle size of about 20 μm or more. The powder system may have at least about 40%, at least about 60%, or at least about 80% based on the weight of the flavor particle group of the powder system contained in particles having a particle size of about 50 μm or more. The powder system may have at least about 40%, or at least about 60%, or at least about 80% based on the weight of the flavor particle group of the powder system contained in particles having a particle size in the range of about 50 μm to about 150 μm.

[0082] Particles containing flavor may include a compound for reducing adhesion, surface energy, and generated aggregation. Flavor particles may be surface-modified with an adhesion-reducing compound to form coated flavor particles. One preferred adhesion-reducing compound may be magnesium stearate. Providing flavor particles to an adhesion-reducing compound such as magnesium stearate, particularly by coating them with a flavor compound, can reduce the adhesion of the flavor-containing particles and reduce the aggregation of the flavor particles by reducing the attractive forces between the flavor particles. Consequently, the aggregation of flavor particles with nicotine particles can also be reduced. Thus, the powder system described herein can have a stable relative particle size of the nicotine-containing particles and the flavor-containing particles even when the nicotine particles and flavor particles are combined. The powder system may preferably be free-flowing.

[0083] Conventional formulations for dry powder inhalation contain carrier particles that serve to increase the fluidity of active particles, because the active particles may be too small to be affected by a simple airflow through an inhaler. Powder systems may include carrier particles. These carrier particles may be sugars such as lactose or mannitol, which can have a particle size greater than about 50 μm. Carrier particles can be utilized to improve dosage uniformity by acting as a diluent or extender within the formulation.

[0084] The powder system used with the nicotine powder delivery system described herein may be free of a carrier or substantially free of sugars such as lactose or mannitol. If there is no carrier or substantially free of sugars such as lactose or mannitol, nicotine may be inhaled and delivered to the user's lungs at an inhalation rate or airflow rate similar to that of a normal smoking system.

[0085] Nicotine particles and flavors can be combined within a single capsule. As previously mentioned, nicotine particles and flavors may each have reduced adhesion, which results in a stable particle formulation in which the particle size of each component does not substantially change upon combination. Alternatively, a powder system comprises nicotine particles contained within a single capsule and flavor particles contained within a second capsule.

[0086] Nicotine particles and flavor particles can be combined in any useful relative amounts so that the flavor particles are detected by the user when consumed as nicotine particles. Preferably, nicotine particles and flavor particles form at least about 90 weight% or at least about 95 weight% or at least about 99 weight% or 100 weight% of the total weight of the powder system.

[0087] The inhaler and inhaler system may have a less complex and simplified airflow path compared to conventional dry powder inhalers. Advantageously, rotation of the capsule within the inhaler body may help aerosolize the nicotine powder or powder system and maintain a free-flowing powder. Thus, the inhaler article may not require the elevated inhalation rate typically used by conventional inhalers to deliver the aforementioned nicotine particles deep into the lungs.

[0088] The inhaler product may use a flow rate of less than about 5 L / min, less than about 3 L / min, less than about 2 L / min, or about 1.6 L / min. Preferably, the flow rate may be in the range of about 1 L / min to about 3 L / min or about 1.5 L / min to about 2.5 L / min. Preferably, the inhalation rate or flow rate may be similar to the inhalation rate or flow rate of the Health Canada smoking regime (Health Canada smoking regime), i.e., about 1.6 L / min.

[0089] An inhaler system comprises the inhaler article described herein and a holder for the inhaler article, wherein the holder is configured to provide a swirling or rotational inhalation airflow to the inhaler article. A retaining member may be configured to provide a swirling or rotational inhalation airflow to the inhaler article. The holder may be configured to rupture or open a deformable element and provide a swirling or rotational inhalation airflow to the inhaler article.

[0090] The holder may include a sleeve configured to hold an inhaler article within a housing cavity. The sleeve includes a sleeve cavity and may be movable within the housing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the housing. The sleeve includes a first open end and a second opposing end. The second opposing end of the sleeve may be configured to allow air to enter the sleeve cavity. The second opposing end of the sleeve may include a sleeve tubular element extending into the sleeve cavity. The sleeve tubular element may be configured to extend into the distal end of the inhaler article through a deformable element and to secure the inhaler article within the sleeve. The sleeve tubular element may be configured to extend through a deformable element of the inhaler article and to secure the inhaler article within the sleeve.

[0091] The holder may further include a through element fixed to the inner surface of the housing and extending therefrom. The through element may be configured to extend into the sleeve cavity along the longitudinal axis of the housing through a second opposing end of the sleeve and to activate the capsule.

[0092] The second opposing end of the sleeve may be configured to induce a vortex or rotational airflow in the intake airflow entering the capsule cavity.

[0093] The method includes the step of inserting an inhaler article into a sleeve of an inhaler article holder. The inhaler article is a body and comprises a body extending along a longitudinal axis from the end of the inhaler mouthpiece to the distal end, a body length, and a capsule disposed within the body of the inhaler article. Then, the inhaler article and the sleeve are moved toward a penetrating element until the penetrating element penetrates the capsule. Then, air is drawn into a second opposing end of the sleeve of the holder to form a vortex inhaler airflow. Then, this vortex inhaler airflow is delivered into the inhaler article while the inhaler article is placed within the inhaler article holder. Then, the consumed inhaler article can be removed from the holder and disposed of. Then, a new inhaler article can be inserted into the holder, and the method can be repeated.

[0094] The inhaler article is configured to receive a vortex inhalation stream directly into the distal end of the inhaler article when the deformable element is opened or ruptured. The vortex inhalation stream then continues downstream into the capsule cavity and induces rotation of the capsule received within the capsule cavity. The activated capsule then releases a dose of particles into the vortex inhalation stream to the consumer downstream through the mouthpiece. The distal or uppermost end of the inhaler article includes an open aperture defining an open inhalation air inlet when the deformable element is opened or ruptured. Thus, the vortex inhalation stream is generated upstream from the inhaler article and enters the distal or uppermost end of the inhaler article.

[0095] A holder for an inhaler article comprises a housing including a housing cavity for receiving an inhaler article and a sleeve configured to hold the inhaler article within the housing cavity. The sleeve includes a sleeve cavity movable within the housing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the housing. The sleeve includes a first open end and a second opposing end. The second opposing end of the sleeve is configured to allow air to enter the sleeve cavity. The second opposing end of the sleeve is configured to induce a vortex in the air entering the sleeve cavity.

[0096] The second opposing end of the sleeve defines a vortex generating element configured to generate a vortex or rotational suction airflow. This vortex or rotational suction airflow is delivered into the suction article to rotate the capsule and release the dry powder contained within the capsule.

[0097] The second opposing end of the sleeve comprises a sleeve tubular element having a central passage in fluid communication with the sleeve cavity. The second opposing end of the sleeve has at least one air inlet that allows air to enter the central passage. The at least one air inlet extends in a direction tangential to the central passage. The second opposing end of the sleeve may have at least two air inlets that allow air to enter the central passage. The at least two air inlets extend in a direction tangential to the central passage. The second opposing end of the sleeve may have at least three air inlets that allow air to enter the central passage. The at least three air inlets extend in a direction tangential to the central passage. The second opposing end of the sleeve may have four air inlets that allow air to enter the central passage. The four air inlets extend in a direction tangential to the central passage.

[0098] The sleeve tubular element may be coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the housing. The sleeve tubular element may be coaxial with the sleeve cavity. The sleeve tubular element may be coaxial with both the longitudinal axis of the housing and the sleeve cavity.

[0099] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may have a diameter in the range of about 30% to about 70% of the diameter of the sleeve cavity. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may have a diameter in the range of about 40% to about 60% of the diameter of the sleeve cavity.

[0100] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage extends into the sleeve cavity and forms an annular recess configured to receive the distal end of an inhaler article. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage extends into the sleeve cavity and forms an annular recess configured to retain the distal end of an inhaler article when a deformable element ruptures or opens.

[0101] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage extends into the distal end of an inhaler article received within the sleeve cavity. When the sleeve tubular element is received within the distal end of the inhaler article, the open end of the sleeve tubular element can form the upstream boundary of the capsule cavity.

[0102] The annular recess can be configured to hold the distal end of the suction device article by a press fit.

[0103] The deformable element can be folded backward along the side of the capsule cavity when ruptured or opened. When ruptured or opened, the deformable element can help provide an interference fit with the sleeve tubular element. When ruptured or opened, the deformable element can cooperate with the sleeve tubular element recess when providing an interference fit with the sleeve tubular element.

[0104] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage can rupture, penetrate, or open a deformable element defining the distal or upstream end closure boundary of the capsule cavity. A portion of the ruptured deformable element may be forced onto the inner surface of the capsule cavity. Preferably, the sleeve tubular element having a central passage exposes the entire diameter of the capsule cavity when inserted through the deformable element.

[0105] At least a portion of the sleeve tubular element having a central passage is located upstream of the inhaler article housed within the sleeve. The sleeve tubular element having a central passage is preferably coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the housed inhaler article.

[0106] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may be sized to engage with an inhaler article capsule cavity. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may interlock with an inhaler article capsule cavity. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may be fitted into the capsule cavity. The central passage of the sleeve tubular element may have an inner diameter in the range of about 3 mm to about 5 mm, or about 4 mm.

[0107] The sleeve tubular element may have an outer diameter of a size that combines with the inner diameter of the capsule cavity. The sleeve tubular element may have an outer diameter of a size that contacts the inner diameter of the capsule cavity. The sleeve tubular element may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 7 mm, or about 6 mm to about 7 mm.

[0108] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may include at least one air inlet extending in a direction tangential to the central passage. The sleeve tubular element may include at least two air inlets extending tangentially to the central passage. The sleeve tubular element may include at least three air inlets extending tangentially to the central passage.

[0109] One or more air inlets may extend through a side wall forming an opposing second end of the sleeve. One or more air inlets may extend in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve or housing. One or more air inlets may extend in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of a sleeve tubular element having a central passage.

[0110] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may include one air inlet extending in a direction tangential to the central passage. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may include two air inlets extending tangentially to the central passage. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may include three air inlets extending tangentially to the central passage. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may include four air inlets extending tangentially to the central passage.

[0111] Preferably, at least one air inlet enters the central passage of a sleeve tubular element from the inner diameter of the sleeve tubular element defining the inner diameter or periphery of the central passage. Preferably, at least two air inlets enter the central passage from the inner diameter of the sleeve tubular element defining the inner diameter or periphery of the central passage. Preferably, at least three air inlets enter the central passage from the inner diameter of the sleeve tubular element defining the inner diameter or periphery of the central passage. Preferably, four air inlets enter the central passage from the inner diameter of the sleeve tubular element defining the inner diameter or periphery of the central passage.

[0112] Two or more air inlets are preferably spaced equally apart from each other around the circumference of the central passage of the sleeve tubular element.

[0113] At least one air inlet extending tangentially to the central passage of the sleeve tubular element enters the central passage adjacent to the end surface defining the distal end of the sleeve. The end surface forms a substantially closed end surface, allowing only the penetrating element to extend through the end surface. The end surface extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve. The end surface prevents intake air from flowing out through the distal end of the sleeve. The end surface directs the intake air toward the sleeve cavity.

[0114] Preferably, at least one air inlet extending in a direction tangential to the central passage of the sleeve tubular element enters the sleeve tubular element having the central passage at the end surface. Improved capsule depletion occurs when the tangential air inlet is positioned closer to the end surface of the central passage.

[0115] The sleeve tubular element may be a single component (i.e., integral with the sleeve) with the sleeve configured to retain an inhaler article within the housing cavity. The sleeve tubular element may form part of a second opposing end of the sleeve. The sleeve tubular element and the sleeve may be formed by an injection molding process. The sleeve tubular element and the sleeve may be formed simultaneously by an injection molding process.

[0116] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may extend or protrude into the sleeve cavity. Such a sleeve tubular element having a central passage may have an outer surface having an outer diameter facing the inner surface of the sleeve. The inner surface of the sleeve defines the sleeve cavity.

[0117] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage may extend into the sleeve cavity by a distance ranging from about 2 mm to about 10 mm, or from about 3 mm to about 7 mm, or from about 4 mm to about 6 mm, or from about 5 mm. In these and other embodiments, the sleeve tubular element having a central passage may have an outer diameter ranging from about 4 to about 6.5 mm, or from about 5 mm to about 6 mm, or from about 5 mm to about 5.5 mm, or preferably from about 5.25 mm.

[0118] At least a portion of the sleeve tubular element having a central passage can be inserted into the received inhaler article. Preferably, at least 50% of the sleeve tubular element having a central passage can be inserted into the received inhaler article.

[0119] A sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity may form a sleeve cavity and an annular recess configured to receive the distal end of an inhaler article. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity may form a sleeve cavity and an annular protrusion configured to be received by the distal end of an inhaler article. A sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity may form both an annular recess and an annular protrusion within the sleeve cavity configured to receive the distal end of an inhaler article.

[0120] The distal end of the inhaler article may be configured to engage with an annular recess formed by a sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity. The distal end of the inhaler article may be configured to engage with an annular protrusion formed by a sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity. The distal end of the inhaler article may be configured to engage with an annular recess and an annular protrusion formed by a sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity. The sleeve tubular element having a central passage may be configured to extend into the distal end of the inhaler article accommodated within the sleeve cavity.

[0121] An annular protrusion formed by a sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity can be fitted into or slid into the received inhaler article capsule cavity when the deformable element ruptures or opens. An annular protrusion formed by a sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity can be fitted into the inhaler article capsule cavity when the deformable element ruptures or opens. An annular protrusion formed by a sleeve tubular element having a central passage extending into the sleeve cavity can form an interference fit within the inhaler article capsule cavity when the deformable element ruptures or opens. Therefore, when the deformable element ruptures or opens, the central passage of the sleeve tubular element having a central passage can be fitted into the inhaler article capsule cavity.

[0122] A holder for an inhaler article may include a penetration element configured to puncture or activate a capsule within the inhaler article. The penetration element may be fixed to an inner surface of the housing and may extend therefrom. The penetration element may be configured to extend into the sleeve cavity along the longitudinal axis of the housing through the end surface of a second opposing surface of the sleeve.

[0123] The penetration element may extend through an aperture within the end surface of the sleeve. The penetration element may extend through a resealable element within the end surface of the sleeve. The resealable element may form a hermetic seal or barrier at the end surface of the sleeve when the penetration element is not within the resealable element. The penetration element extends through an aperture within the end surface of the sleeve and may substantially block airflow considering the aperture.

[0124] The penetrating element can pass through the end surface and puncture the capsule within the capsule cavity. If the resealable element is present in the penetrating aperture, it can be resealed when the penetrating element retracts or is removed from the resealable element. The resealable element or membrane may include an element such as a septum. The resealable element or membrane may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber, silicone, metal foil co-laminated with a polymer, or latex, or a cellulose acetate tow such as high-density cellulose acetate tow.

[0125] The penetrating element is fixed to the inner surface of the housing and can extend from the inner surface of the housing into the housing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the penetrating element by the length of the penetrating element. The penetrating element can be concave by a concave distance from the open proximal end of the housing.

[0126] The distal and uppermost ends of the inhaler article may contact the second opposing end of the sleeve and force the sleeve to move toward the penetration element. The sleeve may be coaxial with the penetration element. The sleeve may align the inhaler article so that the penetration element reliably activates the capsule within the inhaler article. The sleeve or holder may also mechanically hold and support the penetration element to prevent or mitigate deflection of the penetration element.

[0127] The sleeve may define a first air inlet zone comprising at least one air aperture through the sleeve. The first air inlet zone may comprise two or more, three or more, four or more, or about one to about ten air apertures, or about three to about nine air apertures. The first air inlet zone is adjacent to a first open end of the sleeve. The first air inlet zone is configured to allow air to flow into an airflow channel formed between the sleeve and the housing.

[0128] The sleeve may include a second air inlet zone located downstream from a first air inlet zone. The second air inlet zone includes a second opposing end of the sleeve configured to allow air to enter the sleeve cavity. The second air inlet zone may include one, two or more, three or more, or four or more air apertures that form a swirling intake airflow by inserting inlet or intake air directly into the second opposing end of the sleeve at a tangential to the central passage of the sleeve tubular element.

[0129] The holder may include a retaining ring element fixed to the open proximal end of the housing. The retaining ring element retains the sleeve within the inhaler article cavity. The retaining ring has sufficient thickness to stop or retain the movement of the sleeve within the inhaler article cavity of the holder.

[0130] The holder may include a spring element configured to deflect the sleeve toward the open proximal end of the housing between a relaxed (or undeformed) state and a compressed (or deformed) state, or away from the penetration element. The spring element is contained within the housing cavity of the holder and may be compressed as the movable sleeve and suction article move toward the penetration element. The spring element may be located between the sleeve and the closed end of the housing and contacts the sleeve and the closed end of the housing. The spring element may be positioned around the penetration element. The spring element may be coaxial with the penetration element. The spring element may be a conical spring.

[0131] The spring element may be fixed to the distal end or closed against the holder. The spring element may be fixed to the second opposing end of the sleeve. The spring element may be fixed to both the closed end of the holder and the second opposing end of the sleeve. The spring element may be a conical spring. A conical spring may, advantageously, provide a low-profile design to offer a more flexible design and a smaller overall compression thickness. Providing a conical spring may also, advantageously, reduce the likelihood of the spring bending when compressed compared to a cylindrical spring.

[0132] When the penetrating element activates the suction article, the spring element deflects the suction article from and away from the penetrating element. The spring element may be positioned around the penetrating element. The spring element may be coaxial with the penetrating element. The penetrating element may extend past the spring element when the spring element is in the relaxed position. The penetrating element may extend past the spring element when the spring element is in the compressed position. The penetrating element may extend past the spring element when the spring element is in both the relaxed and compressed positions. The penetrating element may extend past the spring element when the sleeve compresses the spring element.

[0133] The sleeve may include an elongated slot extending along the longitudinal length of the sleeve. When the sleeve includes the elongated slot, the housing may further include an alignment pin extending from the inner surface of the housing cavity. The alignment pin may be configured to align with the elongated slot. Advantageously, the elongated slot and the alignment pin provide a reliable path of movement between a relaxed position and a compressed position.

[0134] The holder may include a marking element extending into the cavity of the inhaler article. The marking element may be configured to mark the surface of the inhaler article. The marking element may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the holder or the inhaler article. The marking element may be configured to mechanically mark the outer surface of the inhaler article. For example, the marking element may be configured to scratch, cut, rub, engrave, fold, or bend the outer surface of the inhaler article. The marking element may have a sharp end configured to scratch the outer surface of the inhaler when received within the cavity of the inhaler article. The marking element may apply color to the outer surface of the inhaler when received within the cavity of the inhaler article. The marking element may mark the outer surface of the inhaler when a penetrating element penetrates a capsule placed within the inhaler article. Thus, it indicates that the inhaler article has been activated and can be consumed by the user. This can also advantageously prevent the user from attempting to reuse an inhaler article that has already been previously activated.

[0135] The marking element may extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the holder or suction device article. The marking element may be formed of a rigid material configured to provide a visual indication that the marking element is in contact with the outer surface of the suction device. The marking element may be fixed to the holder housing. As described above, the marking element may form an alignment pin.

[0136] The marking element may extend through at least a portion of the thickness of the holder. The marking element may extend through the sleeve. The marking element may extend into the inhaler article cavity and into the sleeve. The marking element may extend at least past the sleeve by a marking distance so that the marking element contacts the outer surface of the inhaler when the inhaler article is received within the inhaler article cavity. The marking element may be aligned with and matched to the elongated slot of the sleeve.

[0137] The penetration element may be recessed from the open proximal end by any suitable recessed distance. For example, the penetration element may be recessed from the open proximal end by a recessed distance of at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 25%, or at least about 30%, or at least about 35%, or at least about 40% of the housing length. The penetration element may be recessed from the open proximal end by a recessed distance ranging from about 5% to about 50% of the housing length, or about 10% to about 40%, or about 15% to about 40%, or about 20% to about 40%.

[0138] The length of the penetration element may be any suitable length relative to the length of the housing. For example, the length of the penetration element may be about 25% to about 60% of the length of the housing, or about 30% to about 50%. The distal end of the penetration element may be fixed to the distal end of the housing or adjacent to the distal end. The entire length of the penetration element may be in the same space within the length of the housing.

[0139] The penetration element is formed of a rigid material. The rigid material is rigid enough to penetrate, puncture, or activate the capsule contained within the inhaler article. The penetration element may be formed of metal. The penetration element may be formed of stainless steel, such as 316 stainless steel, for example. The penetration element may be formed of a polymer material. The penetration element may be formed of a fiber-reinforced polymer material.

[0140] The housing can be formed from any rigid material. The housing can be formed from a polymer material. Polymer materials useful for forming the housing include polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, styrene acrylonitrile, polyacrylate, polystyrene, PBT polyester, PET polyester, polyoxymethylene, polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyetheretherketone, or liquid crystal polymers.

[0141] The inhaler article may be received within the holder such that the outer surface of the inhaler article and the outer surface of the holder housing are concentric. When the inhaler article is received within the holder, the longitudinal axis of the penetration element may be coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the housing and the longitudinal axis of the inhaler. At least about 50% of the length of the housing, or at least about 75%, may be in the same space as the length of the inhaler when the inhaler article is received within the holder.

[0142] The holder can be formed by insert molding technology. The through element can be formed, for example, first by molding, and then the housing can be molded around the through element to be joined to the through element. The through element may be a metal through element, and the housing can be molded around the metal through element to secure the metal through element to the housing. The metal through element may include a protrusion or a recess at the distal end of the through element to increase the surface area of ​​the distal end of the through element and to improve fixation within the housing molding material.

[0143] The inhaler system can be used by a consumer as if smoking a conventional cigarette or vaping an electronic cigarette. Such smoking or vaping may be characterized by the following two stages: a first stage in which a small volume containing a total amount of nicotine desired by the consumer is inhaled into the mouth, and a second stage in which this small volume containing an aerosol containing a desired amount of nicotine is further diluted with fresh air and inhaled deeper into the lungs. Both stages are controlled by the consumer. During the first inhalation stage, the consumer can determine the amount of nicotine to inhale. During the second stage, the consumer can determine the volume to dilute the first volume to be inhaled deep into the lungs, thereby maximizing the concentration of the activator delivered to the surface of the airway epithelium. This smoking mechanism is sometimes referred to as "puff-inhalation-exhalation."

[0144] All scientific and technical terms used herein have the meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. The definitions provided herein are intended to facilitate the understanding of specific terms frequently used herein.

[0145] As used herein, the singular indefinite articles (“a”, “an”) and the definite article (“the”) include embodiments having multiple objects unless otherwise clearly stated.

[0146] As used herein, “or” is generally used to include “and / or” unless otherwise clearly stated. The term “and / or” means one or all of the listed elements, or any combination of two or more of the listed elements.

[0147] As used herein, terms such as "to have," "having," "include," "including," "comprise," and "comprising" are used in an open-ended sense and generally mean "including, but not limited to." It will be understood that terms such as "essentially composed of" and "composed of" are included within "comprising," etc.

[0148] The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the present invention that may provide specific advantages under specific circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or different conditions. Furthermore, the reference to one or more preferred embodiments is not intended to imply that other embodiments are not useful, nor is it intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0149] Now, the present invention will be further described with reference to the drawings: FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler article. FIG. 2a is a front perspective view of an exemplary inhaler article having a complete deformable element. FIG. 2b is a front perspective view of an exemplary suction device article having an openable deformable element. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary inhaler system. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary suction system of Figure 3. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary sleeve. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler article of FIG. 1 housed within a sleeve shown in FIG. 5. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0150] Schematic drawings are not required to be in a fixed proportion and are provided for illustrative purposes rather than as a limitation. The drawings illustrate one or more aspects described in this disclosure. However, it will be understood that other aspects not illustrated in the drawings fall within the scope and spirit of this disclosure.

[0151] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler article (150). The inhaler article (150) comprises a body (151) extending along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article from a mouthpiece end (154) to a distal end (156), a capsule cavity (155), and a capsule (160) retained within the capsule cavity (155). The capsule cavity (155) is defined within the body (151) and is bordered downstream by a filter element (157) and bordered upstream by a deformable element (158). The deformable element defines a closed boundary bordering the capsule cavity (155).

[0152] The deformable element (158) defines the capsule cavity. In one embodiment, the deformable element (158) is formed from paper having a thickness of about 125 μm and a basis weight of about 100 gsm. The illustrated deformable element (158) has a total later length of about 25 mm and extends about 3 mm past the body (151). The illustrated deformable element (158) has an inner diameter of about 6.6 mm. The illustrated inhaler article (150) has a filter element with a later length of about 20 mm, and the wrapper or body has a lateral length of about 42 mm.

[0153] In this example, the body (151) is a paper wrapper that combines the deformable element (158) and the filter element (157) in a serial border axial alignment. The total length of the exemplary suction article (150) is about 45 mm, and the outer uniform diameter is about 7.2 mm.

[0154] FIG. 2a is a front perspective view of an exemplary inhaler article (150) having an intact deformable element (158). The intact deformable element (158) forms a folded distal end (156) of the inhaler article (150). The folded distal end (156) may be referred to as a "fan fold." The deformable element (158) folds back toward itself to form an overlapping pie-shaped section that seals or closes the upstream end of the capsule cavity (155).

[0155] FIG. 2b is a front perspective view of an exemplary inhaler article in which the deformable element (158) is in an open state. The folded section of the deformable element (158) may be ruptured or opened to expose the capsule cavity (155). The folded section of the deformable element (158) may be folded back toward the branch to define an open aperture to accommodate a vortex or rotating inhalation airflow.

[0156] The holder described below may be configured to rupture or open a deformable element (158) when received within the holder.

[0157] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary inhaler system (100). FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the exemplary inhaler system (100) of FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary sleeve (120) of the inhaler system (100).

[0158] An inhaler system (100) comprises an inhaler article (150) and a separate holder (110). The inhaler article (150) may be received within the holder (110) to activate or penetrate a capsule (160) placed within the inhaler article (150). The inhaler article (150) is maintained within the holder (110) while the consumer uses it. The holder (110) is configured to induce a swirling inhalation airflow entering the received inhaler article (150). The holder (110) is configured to rupture or open a deformable element (158) of the inhaler article (150).

[0159] The inhaler system (100) includes an inhaler article (150) and a holder (110). The inhaler article (150) has an inhaler longitudinal axis (L A It includes a body (151) extending along the ). The holder (110) includes a movable sleeve (120) that holds an aspirator article (150) received within a sleeve cavity (122).

[0160] A holder (110) for an inhaler article (150) comprises a housing (111) having a housing cavity (112) for receiving an inhaler article (150) and a sleeve (120) configured to hold the inhaler article (150) within the housing cavity (112). The sleeve (120) defines a sleeve cavity (122) and the longitudinal axis (L) of the housing (111). A It is movable within the housing cavity (112) along the sleeve (120). The sleeve (120) includes a first open end (124) and a second opposing end (126). The second opposing end (126) of the sleeve (120) is configured to allow air to enter the sleeve cavity (122). The second opposing end (126) of the sleeve (120) is configured to induce a vortex in the air entering the sleeve cavity (122).

[0161] The holder (110) may include a through element (101) that is fixed to the inner surface (109) of the housing and extends therefrom. The through element (101) may be configured to extend into the sleeve cavity (122) along the longitudinal axis of the housing (111) through the second opposing end (126) of the sleeve (120). The holder (110) may include a spring element (102) configured to deflect the sleeve (120) away from the through element (101).

[0162] The sleeve (120) may include an elongated slot extending along the longitudinal length of the sleeve (120). The housing (111) may further include a pin (127) extending from the inner surface (109) of the housing cavity (112). The pin (127) may be configured to engage with the elongated slot.

[0163] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary sleeve (120). A second opposing end (126) of the sleeve (120) includes a sleeve tubular element (130) defining a central passage (132), an end surface (136), and an open end (134). The central passage (132) is in fluid communication with the sleeve cavity (122). The open end (132) of the sleeve tubular element (130) may extend into the sleeve cavity (122). The sleeve tubular element (130) includes at least one air inlet (138) that allows air to enter the central passage (132). The at least one air inlet (138) extends in a direction tangential to the central passage (132).

[0164] The distal end (156) of the suction article (150) can slide over the sleeve tubular element (130) as shown in FIG. 6. The open end (134) of the sleeve tubular element (130) changes the deformable element (158) from a closed configuration to an open configuration, allowing swirling or rotating suction air to flow directly into the capsule cavity (155) of the suction article (150).

[0165] When the inhaler article (150) is inserted into the holder (110), the open end (134) of the sleeve tubular element (130) deforms and pushes the deformable element (158) so that it extends into the tubular element (153) of the inhaler article (150) in which the sleeve tubular element (130) is received. The deformable element (158) can be deflected toward the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article in an open configuration so that the inhaler article (150) is gripped onto the holder and thus the inhaler article (150) is held in place within the holder (110).

[0166] The intake air inlet (138) enters the sleeve tubular element (130) at a tangential to the central passage (132) and forms a swirling intake airflow in the capsule cavity (155) of the received intake article (150). The swirling intake airflow flows along the capsule cavity (155) of the received article, inducing capsule rotation and releasing particles into the intake airflow.

[0167] The sleeve tubular element (130) may extend into the sleeve cavity (122) and forms an annular recess (131) with the sleeve cavity (122) configured to receive the distal end (156) of the inhaler article (150). The protrusion formed by the sleeve tubular element (130) slides into the capsule cavity (155) of the inhaler article (150). The sleeve tubular element (130) is configured here to extend into the distal end (156) of the inhaler article (150) received within the sleeve cavity (122).

[0168] The sleeve tubular element (130) extends into the sleeve cavity (122) of about 5 mm and may have an outer diameter of about 6.5 mm and an inner diameter of about 4 mm. The central capsule cavity (155) of the received inhaler article (150) may have an inner diameter of about 6.6 mm to provide a press fit with the sleeve tubular element (130) and the annular recess (131).

[0169] The sleeve (120) defines a first air inlet area (170) comprising at least one air aperture (129) through the sleeve (120). The first air inlet area (170) is adjacent to the first open end (124) of the sleeve (120). The first air inlet area (170) is configured to allow air to flow into an airflow channel formed between the sleeve (120) and the housing (111). The sleeve includes a second air inlet area (180) downstream from the first air inlet area (170). The second air inlet area (180) includes a second opposing end (126) of the sleeve (120) configured to allow air to enter the sleeve cavity (122). The second air inlet area (180) includes at least one air aperture or air inlet (138) into a sleeve tubular element (130) having a central passage (132) through the sleeve (120).

[0170] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary inhaler article (150) housed within the sleeve (120) illustrated in FIG. 5. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the capsule cavity (155) of the inhaler article (150) is aligned and coupled with the central passage (132) of the sleeve tubular element (130) and extends into the central passage. The sleeve tubular element (130) forms the upstream end of the capsule cavity (155). A deformable element (158) opens again to the side wall of the capsule cavity (155) and provides a press fit within the annular recess (131).

Claims

Claim 1 An inhaler article for use in an inhaler system for providing dry powder to a user's lungs, comprising: a body extending along a longitudinal axis from a mouthpiece end to a distal end; a capsule cavity defined within the body and bordered downstream by a filter element and bordered upstream and distal by a deformable element, wherein the deformable element folds back toward itself to deform from a closed configuration to an open configuration to define an open aperture and form an open distal end, thereby enabling the inhaler article to accommodate a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow during consumption through the open distal end; and a capsule disposed within the capsule cavity and containing dry powder. Claim 2 In claim 1, the deformable element is a suction article that folds at the distal end of the body. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the deformable element is a fan-folded suction article at the distal end of the body. Claim 4 An intake article according to claim 1, wherein the deformable element comprises a folded section, the deformable element folds the folded section back toward itself to be deformed from a closed configuration to an open configuration, defining an open aperture for accommodating a vortex or rotating intake airflow. Claim 5 In claim 1, the upstream boundary of the capsule cavity is defined by a deformable element forming a closed end of the inhaler article. Claim 6 In claim 1, the upstream boundary of the capsule cavity is defined by a deformable element forming the open end of the inhaler article. Claim 7 In paragraph 1, an inhaler article wherein at least a portion of the deformable element is formed of paper. Claim 8 In claim 1, the deformable element defines at least a portion of the longitudinal sidewall of the capsule cavity, an inhaler article. Claim 9 In claim 1, the deformable element defines the majority of the capsule cavity, an inhaler article. Claim 10 An inhaler article according to claim 1, further comprising a wrapping layer surrounding the filter element and the deformable element. Claim 11 In claim 10, the above wrapping layer combines the filter element and the deformable element, an inhaler article. Claim 12 In paragraph 10, the above-mentioned deformable element is an inhaler article extending past the wrapping layer. Claim 13 In claim 12, the deformable element extends through the wrapping layer in the range of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, or 1 mm to 4 mm, or 2 mm to 3 mm, an inhaler article. Claim 14 In claim 1, the capsule is an inhaler article comprising pharmaceutically active particles. Claim 15 An inhaler system comprising: an inhaler article according to any one of claims 1 to 14; and a holder for said inhaler article for providing a swirling or rotating inhalation airflow to said inhaler article. Claim 16 In claim 15, the holder comprises a housing including a housing cavity for receiving an inhaler article and a sleeve configured to hold the inhaler article within the housing cavity, wherein the sleeve comprises a sleeve cavity and is movable within the housing cavity along the longitudinal axis of the housing, and the sleeve comprises a first open end and a second opposing end, wherein the second opposing end of the sleeve is configured to provide a swirling or rotating inhaler airflow on the air entering the sleeve cavity by having at least one air inlet extending tangentially to a central passage; and wherein the second opposing end of the sleeve comprises a sleeve tubular element extending into the sleeve cavity, wherein the sleeve tubular element extends through a deformable element of the inhaler article and is configured to secure the inhaler article within the sleeve, the inhaler system. Claim 17 In paragraph 16, the above-mentioned sleeve tubular element forms the upstream boundary of the capsule cavity, an inhaler system.

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