nebulizer

Abstract

A nebulizer for nebulizing a fluid is presented. The nebulizer comprises an indicator device with a rotatable indicator element for counting or indicating the number of actuations performed or still possible with the nebulizer and a rotatable shaft rotatably driving the indicator element. The indicator device is non-removably attached to the shaft and / or to an inner portion of the nebulizer. The nebulizer can further comprise a positioning device holding the shaft in a defined rotational position and / or blocking a rotation of the shaft backwards.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a nebulizer. BACKGROUND

[0002] WO 2011 / 064164 A1 discloses a nebulizer. A container can be inserted into a housing of the nebulizer. The housing is enclosed by a lower housing part. By rotating the housing part, a drive spring can be put under tension and fluid can be sucked into a compression chamber of a pressure generator. At the same time, the container is moved with a stroke within the nebulizer to move into the lower housing part. At the first movement, the container can be pierced by a piercing element in the lower housing part to allow venting of the container. After a manual pressing of a button, the drive spring is released and moves a delivery tube into the pressure chamber so that the fluid is put under pressure by the drive spring and delivered or nebulized through a nozzle into a mouthpiece as an aerosol without the use of a propellant gas. Thus, the container is moved axially back and forth during delivery of the fluid to be nebulized and during pressure generation and nebulization.

[0003] Known nebulizers comprise a threaded shaft with an associated non-rotatable bob. Upon tensioning the nebulizer, the threaded shaft is rotatably driven by a relative rotation of the housing parts. Rotating the threaded shaft causes the bob to move axially, wherein the axial position of the bob corresponds to the total number of operations or actuations of the nebulizer. When a certain number of actuations has been reached or exceeded, the bob can lock the nebulizer against further operation or use.

[0004] Known nebulizers further comprise a control ring, which is rotatable and driven by the rotation of the threaded shaft. The control ring is located in the lower housing part and blocks the lower housing part from being disassembled until a predetermined number of operations has been reached. Further, the rotational position of the control ring corresponds to the number of operations or uses of the nebulizer with the current container and can be displayed or indicated by means of the control ring. When the predetermined number has been reached, the control ring unblocks the lower housing part. Then, the lower housing part together with the control ring and the container can be disassembled and replaced by a new lower housing part, a new control ring and a new container. Such a replacement is possible until the nebulizer is permanently blocked by means of the bob.

[0005] WO 2007 / 022898 A2 discloses a similar sprayer, wherein a first counter counts the number of operations with the current container and a second counter counts the total number of operations (thus with several containers). The first counter comprises two counting rings, which are rotatably driven by the linear stroke movement of the container within the sprayer. Further, the first counter drives the second counter. WO 2007 / 022898 A2 shows different embodiments, wherein the first counter is located at different positions within the lower housing part. However, it is crucial that the first counter is attached to the lower housing part so as to be detachable and replaceable with the lower housing part upon insertion of a new container.

[0006] WO 2012 / 162305 A1, US 2015 / 0040890 A1 and EP 2 835 146 A1 show a similar sprayer, wherein a threaded shaft with an associated axially only movable, non-rotatable float is attached to the lower housing part so that it is replaceable with the lower housing part upon insertion of a new container. An annular indicator member is arranged at the upper housing part, which indicates the number of containers that have been used or that can still be used. The indicator member is driven only by the force of a spring upon expiration of the container replacement and / or upon replacement of the container.

[0007] WO 2015 / 018904 A1 also discloses a sprayer, wherein a threaded shaft is attached to a replaceable lower housing part. In order to prevent movement of the shaft before the lower housing part is connected to the sprayer, the lower housing part comprises a blocking device, which blocks the shaft in a defined rotational position until the sprayer is closed. Once the sprayer is closed by attaching the lower housing part, the blocking device is moved axially so that in this closed state the blocking device no longer blocks the rotation of the shaft.

[0008] WO 2015 / 169431 A2 shows a sprayer, wherein an indicator device is directly attached to the base of the container. The indicator device shows the number of uses performed or still possible with the container. Since the indicator device is fixed to the container, it has to be replaced with the container.

[0009] WO 2004 / 024340 A1 discloses a blocking device for permanently blocking a sprayer against further use. The sprayer is actuated by rotating two housing parts relative to each other. The blocking device comprises a flap spring which is initially accommodated in a recess of one of the housing parts in a pre-tensioned resting position. When the allowed number of operations with the sprayer has been achieved, a pin pushes the flap spring out of its resting position, which causes the flap spring to expand into a recess of the other housing part so that the housing parts can no longer be rotated relative to each other. This blocking can only be overcome by a force which is large enough to damage the sprayer.

[0010] It is an object of the present application to provide a sprayer which allows for an easy and / or improved handling and / or a simple or compact construction.

[0011] The above object is achieved by the sprayer as claimed in the present application. SUMMARY

[0012] The present application relates to a sprayer for atomizing, in particular, a fluid, preferably a fluid medicament, from a container containing the fluid.

[0013] The sprayer comprises an inner part and a lower housing part which can be detached from the inner part for opening the sprayer, in particular for inserting the container.

[0014] The inner part is preferably cylindrical or at least substantially formed as a (hollow) cylinder.

[0015] The sprayer comprises an indicator device with a rotatable indicator element. The indicator device is configured to count or indicate the number of actuations or uses performed or still possible with the sprayer or the number of fluid doses expelled or still possible to expel. In particular, the indicator element comprises markings, e.g. numbers and / or graduation lines, for indicating or showing these numbers.

[0016] In the sense of the present application, an actuation is preferably one action or series of actions which a user has to perform in order to expel or atomize a certain dose of fluid, e.g. loading an energy store of the sprayer. Preferably, the number of actuations performed or still possible corresponds to or equals the number of fluid doses expelled or still possible to expel.

[0017] Preferably, the indicator element is indexed or rotated step by step when the sprayer is actuated, in particular when loading an energy store of the sprayer and / or when expelling a certain dose of fluid. For this purpose, the sprayer comprises a rotatable shaft which rotatably drives the indicator element.

[0018] Preferably, the shaft and indicator element are rotatably connected to each other and / or are (partial) rotational drives, indexing and / or (step-by-step) rotational indicator elements of the shaft.

[0019] Particularly preferably, the sprayer is configured such that when the sprayer is actuated, the shaft performs a (partial) rotation, which in turn drives, rotates, and / or (gradually) rotates the indicator element.

[0020] The indicator element is preferably annular or formed as a (closed) ring.

[0021] The shaft is preferably attached to an internal portion, particularly a non-removable portion, and / or the internal portion includes and / or supports the shaft.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the indicator device is non-removably attached to or connected to the internal portion and / or the shaft. In this way, a very simple and robust construction is achieved. In particular, the rotary connection between the shaft and the indicator element is provided in the delivery state of the sprayer, thus ensuring particularly easy handling. Furthermore, the non-removable construction ensures that the sprayer can only be used with the indicator device, and / or ensures that the indicator device cannot be removed from the sprayer, for example, by the user, which again facilitates easy and / or safe handling.

[0023] The indicator device is preferably attached to the free end or axial end of the internal part. This allows for a very compact construction and simple assembly.

[0024] Preferably, the sprayer or internal portion includes a retaining portion to which the indicator device is non-removably attached, and / or the indicator device is non-removably retained by the retaining portion. The retaining portion may form part of the internal portion and / or may be (non-removably) attached to or connected to the internal portion, particularly preferably by a snap-fit ​​engagement. Thus, the indicator device may be attached to the internal portion directly or indirectly via the retaining portion.

[0025] According to another aspect of the invention, a portion of the indicator device (such as a support portion or indicator housing) is formed by another structural component of the sprayer and / or by an internal portion and / or a portion thereof. Therefore, a simplified construction and / or reduction in the number of parts can be achieved. In particular, a more cost-effective sprayer and / or simpler assembly can be achieved.

[0026] According to another aspect of the invention, which can also be implemented independently, the sprayer includes a positioning device. By means of the positioning device, the shaft is preferably held in a defined rotational position between two actuations and / or the positioning device is a ratchet or functions as a ratchet. In this way, it is ensured that rotation of the shaft and the indicator element is performed only when the sprayer is actuated. Therefore, accidental rotation, especially between two actuations, is prevented. Furthermore, it prevents the user from potentially manipulating the indicator device, for example, by manually rotating the indicator element without actuating the sprayer.

[0027] Preferably, the positioning device prevents the drive mechanism, particularly the gear mechanism or transmission, used for the shaft from being (unintentionally) blocked or jammed. Specifically, the shaft is held in a defined or correct position by the positioning device, allowing the drive mechanism to act on the shaft or rotate or index it as needed. Therefore, improved and / or safer handling is achieved, and / or the correct operation of the indicating device is ensured.

[0028] Preferably, the positioning device ensures that the shaft, indicator element, and / or the motor for locking the sprayer are in the correct position. In particular, it ensures that the correct number of indications is achieved and / or the sprayer is not locked too early or too late. Thus, improved and / or safer handling is realized.

[0029] Particularly preferably, the shaft is prevented from rotating backward by means of a positioning device.

[0030] Preferably, the shaft is held in a defined rotational position by means of a positioning device, particularly preferably by engagement and / or latching.

[0031] The positioning device is preferably implemented as or includes a protrusion and / or a flexible arm, particularly a protrusion and / or a flexible arm that engages with a shaft gear. Preferably, the protrusion and / or the flexible arm forms a ratchet.

[0032] Preferably, the positioning device is implemented in particular as a ratchet to deflect away when the shaft rotates in one direction and / or block rotation of the shaft in another direction. Preferably, in this way, the positioning device functions as a ratchet and / or allows rotational movement of the shaft in only one direction while preventing movement in the opposite direction.

[0033] Particularly preferably, the positioning device is integrally formed with the internal part and / or the part of the sprayer that includes a shaft or a support for the shaft, or is integrally formed with the internal part and / or the part of the sprayer that includes a shaft or a support for the shaft.

[0034] Preferably, the sprayer includes an energy storage device, such as a drive spring. The energy storage device can be loaded, preferably by manual actuation of the sprayer. In this way, energy that can be used to subsequently atomize a certain dose of fluid is stored. For example, energy can be stored in the drive spring by tensioning, in particular compressing, the spring. Relaxing the spring (and thus releasing the stored energy) can be used to force a certain dose of fluid out of the sprayer.

[0035] The loading of the accumulator (particularly the tensioning / compression of the drive spring) is preferably performed by relative rotation of the internal portion (preferably together with the lower housing portion) relative to the upper housing portion of the sprayer. This relative rotation is preferably used for the drive shaft, and therefore for driving the indicator element.

[0036] Actuation of the sprayer (particularly the loading of the accumulator) preferably causes rotation of the shaft, particularly of the indicating element rotatably coupled to the shaft. For this purpose, the sprayer preferably includes one or more drive portions that cooperate or mesh with the shaft or its shaft gear when the sprayer is actuated. Specifically, the one or more drive portions are arranged such that the shaft rotates by a defined angle. In this way, precise movement of the shaft and the indicating element is ensured, enabling accurate indication or counting and thus easy and safe handling.

[0037] The one or more drive portions are preferably formed by one or more protrusions of a portion (particularly the upper housing portion) that rotates relative to the shaft, which is preferably attached to the inner portion. This allows for a very simple construction.

[0038] The sprayer or its internal components preferably include a holding portion for holding, supporting, or biasing the energy storage device. In particular, the holding portion forms a support for the axial end of the energy storage device.

[0039] Particularly preferably, the indicator device is attached to the retaining portion and / or the retaining portion forms part of the indicator device. This allows for a very compact and / or simple construction and / or assembly.

[0040] Particularly preferably, the retaining portion retains both the energy storage device and the indicator device.

[0041] Preferably, the retaining portion forms or provides a support for the rotation of the indicator element.

[0042] The indicator device preferably includes an indicator housing, in which the indicator element is housed within the indicator housing. The indicator housing is preferably fixed to an internal portion or a retaining portion, particularly at an axial end or a free end or from below. This allows for a compact and / or robust construction in which the indicator housing is non-removably fixed to the internal portion or retaining portion, and the indicator element is rotatably housed or retained within the indicator housing.

[0043] The indicator element preferably includes or forms an indicator gear or teeth. Preferably, the sprayer includes a corresponding drive gear attached to the shaft. In this way, a particularly easy, stable, and / or compact connection is achieved between the indicator element and the shaft. Specifically, the indicator gear / teeth are directly coupled to the drive gear. This contributes to the cost-effectiveness and / or simplicity of the sprayer's construction and / or assembly. In particular, other parts for the connection, such as intermediate gears, are not required.

[0044] Preferably, the teeth are located on the outer circumference of the indicator element, and / or the shaft or its drive gear engages the indicator element or its teeth from the outside. This has the advantage that the interior of the indicator element is left empty or that no space is needed within the interior for the shaft or drive gear. Advantageously, more space is available for other parts of the sprayer and / or a container for holding the fluid.

[0045] Particularly preferably, the indicator element is implemented as or formed as a spur gear and / or a toothed wheel.

[0046] When assembling the sprayer, the shaft is preferably inserted into the support lug or internal portion of the sprayer, and the drive gear is attached, in particular plugged or clamped, to the shaft from the opposite side and / or extending through the face end of the lug. This allows for a very simple and robust construction. In this way, the shaft is preferably held in a fixed position axially and / or radially.

[0047] Preferably, in addition to the indicator device or indicator element, the shaft-driven sprayer has an optional second indicator device and / or locking or stopping device.

[0048] Preferably, the locking or stopping device is activated when a predetermined number of activations or a predetermined amount of emission dose has been reached or exceeded. Preferably, the locking or stopping device cannot be reset, leaving the sprayer in a permanently locked state, rendering it unusable. This allows for the safe handling of the sprayer.

[0049] Particularly preferably, the locking or locking device is implemented by means of a locking spring, such as that disclosed in WO2004 / 024340A1.

[0050] The shaft preferably includes a threaded portion with an associated sliding weight. Rotation of the shaft preferably drives the sliding weight linearly along the threaded portion.

[0051] Particularly preferred is the locking or stopping device of the motor-actuated sprayer, especially when it reaches its highest or final position.

[0052] Alternatively or concurrently, the rider can be formed or used as a second indicator device, wherein the height of the rider indicates the number of actuations performed or still possible. However, in this case, the two indicator devices display substantially the same information, which may allow the indication of the first indicator device to be more precise. Therefore, it is preferable to use or provide only one indicator device, i.e., the first indicator device as described above. Attached Figure Description

[0053] All aspects of the invention mentioned above and below can be implemented independently of each other and in any combination. Further advantages, features, aspects, and characteristics of the invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 1 It is a schematic cross-section of a known system / sprayer in a non-tensioned state;

[0055] Figure 2 It is based on Figure 1 However, a schematic cross-section of a known system / sprayer under tension;

[0056] Figure 3 This is a schematic front view of the proposed system / sprayer;

[0057] Figure 4 It is based on Figure 3 A schematic cross-section of the system / sprayer;

[0058] Figure 5 It is based on Figure 3 A schematic exploded view of parts of the system / sprayer;

[0059] Figure 6 It is similar to Figure 3 The diagram is shown, but some parts of the system / sprayer have been removed;

[0060] Figure 7 A schematic side view of the internal parts of the proposed system / sprayer with attached indicator devices; and

[0061] Figure 8 It is along Figure 4 A schematic cross section of line VIII-VIII in the diagram.

[0062] In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used for the same or similar parts, preferably to obtain corresponding or comparable features and advantages, even without repeating related descriptions. Detailed Implementation

[0063] Figure 1 and Figure 2A known system / dispensing device / sprayer 1 for spraying / atomizing and / or dispensing fluid 2 (particularly pharmaceutical compositions, agents, etc.) is shown, schematically in a non-tensioned, initial, and / or unloaded state. Figure 1 ) and tension, immediate availability, activation and / or loading status ( Figure 2 (as shown in the image).

[0064] System / atomizer 1 is preferably adapted to dispense or atomize fluid 2 or a certain dose thereof, particularly in the form of aerosol 14 (e.g. Figure 1 (Indicated by the dashed line in the middle).

[0065] Preferably, the atomized / dispensed fluid 2 or aerosol 14 can be breathed or inhaled by the user / patient (not shown).

[0066] Typically, depending on the patient’s discomfort / illness, dispensing / inhalation is performed at least once a day, preferably several times a day, especially at set time intervals.

[0067] System / inhaler 1 is preferably configured as a portable inhaler and / or preferably operates mechanically only and / or without any propellant / gas. However, other configurations are also possible.

[0068] The system preferably includes a sprayer 1 and a container 3 containing fluid 2. In other words, the sprayer 1 and the container 3 preferably form a system.

[0069] Sprayer 1 is preferably adapted to receive a preferably insertable or replaceable container 3, preferably axially and / or from below, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown.

[0070] The following description makes no distinction between the system and sprayer 1. When sprayer 1 is mentioned in the description, unless otherwise stated, this should also cover the system including sprayer 1 and (inserted) container 3.

[0071] The sprayer 1 or container 3 preferably includes and / or forms a reservoir 4 for dispensing fluid 2, specifically in the form of atomization or spraying.

[0072] Preferably, the container 3 or reservoir 4 contains multiple doses of fluid 2, particularly sufficient to provide at least 60, 100, or 150 and / or up to 200 or more dose units or doses, i.e., allowing at least 60, 100, or 150 and / or up to 200 sprays or applications.

[0073] The (maximum) volume of the reservoir 4 is preferably at least 0.5 ml or 2 ml, particularly at least 4 ml or 6 ml and / or at most 100 ml or 50 ml, particularly at most 20 ml or 10 ml.

[0074] The amount or total volume of fluid 2 contained in container 3 or reservoir 4 may vary depending on fluid 2 or container 3 and / or the necessary pharmaceutical agent.

[0075] Preferably, the sprayer 1 is adapted to dispense a dose of fluid 2 of at least 1 μl or 5 μl, particularly at least 10 μl or 15 μl and / or up to 100 μl or 80 μl, particularly up to 60 μl, each time it is used or actuated.

[0076] As already mentioned, container 3 can be replaced or replaced. In other words, sprayer 1 can be reusable and / or can be used with a new container 3 once container 3 is empty. However, it is also possible to have a solution where sprayer 1 can only be used with one container 3 and / or container 3 or reservoir 4 (non-replaceable) is integrated into sprayer 1.

[0077] Optionally, the total number of times the sprayer 1 is actuated or used and / or the number of containers 3 that can be used with the same sprayer 1 is limited to, for example, a total of four, five or six.

[0078] Container 3 is preferably at least substantially cylindrical and / or is implemented as a hollow cylinder. Most preferably, container 3 is at least substantially rotationally symmetric and / or elongated.

[0079] Preferably, the sprayer 1 and / or container 3 includes or defines axis A, preferably wherein axis A is the longitudinal axis, central axis, motion axis, and / or rotation axis of the sprayer 1 and / or container 3. Most preferably, axis A is the common axis of the sprayer 1 and container 3.

[0080] The axis A preferably extends centrally through the sprayer 1 and / or container 3.

[0081] In the following description (unless otherwise explicitly stated), particularly when specifying radial and / or axial alignment or arrangement, spatial description is preferably made with reference to axis A. Therefore, the terms "radial" or "axial" preferably refer to axis A of the sprayer 1 and / or container 3.

[0082] Preferably, the reservoir 4 for fluid 2 is variable, particularly collapsible / shrinkable. Specifically, the reservoir 4 or its volume (automatically) shrinks when and / or each time a certain dose of fluid 2 is withdrawn from the container 3. In particular, the container 3 may include or form a variable or collapsible volume for fluid 2, such as a (flexible) inner container of the variable reservoir 4, preferably a collapsible bag.Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this case, the collapsible volume is formed by a bag. However, other solutions are also possible, such as a movable piston within container 3.

[0083] Optionally, the container 3 (particularly its base 3A) includes venting / permeability features (e.g., valves, openings, or holes 3B) for venting / permeability of the container 3, preferably to enable or support the extraction of fluid 2 and / or the collapse of the bag or reservoir 4.

[0084] Preferably, the ventilation feature opens automatically and / or before or during the first use of the sprayer 1 and / or container 3.

[0085] Preferably, the sprayer 1 includes a delivery mechanism / fluid pump 5 that is preferably mechanically operated for extracting, pressurizing, delivering and / or atomizing / distributing fluid 2, in particular its (preferably preset and / or adjustable) dose.

[0086] The fluid pump 5 is preferably adapted to draw or extract fluid 2, i.e., a certain dose of fluid 2, from the container 3 or reservoir 4 during the tensioning or loading process of the sprayer 1 and / or in the first step.

[0087] Subsequently, particularly during the dispensing or atomizing process of the sprayer 1 and / or in the second step, the extracted fluid 2 or the dose of fluid 2 can preferably be dispensed by means of the fluid pump 5, especially (first) pressurized and / or (then) atomized.

[0088] Therefore, normal use of the sprayer 1 preferably includes a two-stage procedure: a loading process, in particular in which energy is transferred to the energy storage 7 and / or in which the pressure chamber 11 of the sprayer 1 or the fluid pump 5 is filled with fluid 2; and a dispensing process, in particular in which fluid 2 is ejected from the pump / pressure chamber 11.

[0089] Preferably, the mechanical energy stored during the loading process is released during the dispensing process to pressurize and / or atomize the extracted fluid 2 or its dose.

[0090] Preferably, the sprayer 1 includes an energy storage device 7. In this embodiment, the energy storage device 7 is implemented as a drive spring, particularly a helical spring, preferably wherein the drive spring is at least partially arranged around and / or surrounds the container 3.

[0091] The energy storage device 7 is preferably loaded during the loading process. When the energy storage device 7 is implemented as a drive spring, the drive spring is preferably tensioned / compressed during the loading process, in which case the loading process is also referred to as the tensioning process. The energy stored in this manner is preferably released during the subsequent distribution process and / or used to distribute or atomize the fluid 2 or a certain dose thereof.

[0092] As already mentioned, the sprayer 1 is preferably adapted to receive the container 3 (axially), and most preferably, to establish a fluid connection between the container 3 (in particular its reservoir 4) and the fluid pump 5.

[0093] Preferably, the sprayer 1 includes a retainer 6 for (particularly releasably and / or axially) retaining the container 3 and / or for establishing a mechanical connection between the container 3 and the sprayer 1.

[0094] Preferably, the energy storage device 7 is associated with and / or (axially) abutted against the retainer 6. Preferably, the retainer 6 moves (axially) to load the energy storage device 7 and / or to tension the drive spring.

[0095] The retainer 6 and the fluid pump 5 are preferably mechanically connected to each other. In this way, the energy of the energy storage 7 is transferred from the energy storage 7 to the fluid pump 5 via the retainer 6.

[0096] The sprayer 1 preferably includes a blocking element 8, wherein the blocking element 8 is adapted to hold and / or retainer 6 and / or energy storage device 7 in a manner that prevents the energy stored during an earlier loading process from being unintentionally and / or immediately released after the loading process is completed.

[0097] Preferably, the blocking element 8 is manually actuated, particularly by pressing the release button 8A of the sprayer 1 or the blocking element 8, to release the retainer 6 and / or the accumulator 7, preferably allowing the accumulator 7 to release energy, particularly allowing the compressed drive spring forming the accumulator 7 to extend. In other words, the dispensing process is preferably initiated by manually actuating the blocking element 8, particularly the release button 8A.

[0098] The sprayer 1 (especially the fluid pump 5) preferably includes a delivery / connection element 9 (e.g., a delivery pipe), a check valve 10, a pressure chamber 11, a nozzle 12 and / or a mouthpiece 13.

[0099] Preferably, when the container 3 is inserted into the sprayer 1, the connecting element 9 fluidly connects the container 3 (in particular its reservoir 4) to the sprayer 1 (in particular the fluid pump 5).

[0100] Therefore, by inserting the container 3 into the sprayer 1, the container 3 is mechanically connected to the sprayer 1 (in particular by means of the retainer 6) and fluidly connected to the sprayer 1 (preferably its fluid pump 5) (in particular by means of the connecting element 9).

[0101] When the container 3 is inserted into the sprayer 1 and / or the container 3 is connected to the fluid pump 5, the connecting element 9 preferably penetrates and / or punctures the container 3, especially the reservoir 4.

[0102] Preferably, the connecting element 9 is configured as an elongated hollow cylinder and / or as a preferably capillary tube. Most preferably, the connecting element 9 is at least substantially coaxial with axis A.

[0103] Preferably, the connecting element 9 is rigid, particularly made of metal, most preferably stainless steel, and / or suitable for piercing or breaking the container 3 and / or its closure / seal / cap.

[0104] Preferably, the connecting element 9 is configured as a capillary, particularly with an inner diameter less than 1 mm or 0.8 mm, most preferably less than 0.7 mm or 0.5 mm and / or greater than 0.1 mm or 0.2 mm. However, the inner diameter should not be too small, as this would reduce the flow rate achievable within the connecting element 9.

[0105] When the energy storage device 7 is loaded during the loading process, the container 3, the retainer 6, the connecting element 9 and / or the check valve 10 preferably move downward and / or toward the base / bottom of the sprayer 1 (together).

[0106] Due to the movement of container 3, retainer 6, connecting element 9 and / or check valve 10, the volume of pressure chamber 11 preferably increases and / or the pressure in pressure chamber 11 decreases, in particular, causing fluid 2 to be drawn from container 3 into fluid pump 5 via connecting element 9, and especially into pressure chamber 11 via check valve 10.

[0107] In this state and / or at the end of the loading process, the retainer 6 or the accumulator 7 is held by the blocking element 8, so that energy is retained in the accumulator 7, in particular keeping the drive spring taut / compressed, as already mentioned. Subsequently, the sprayer 1 is in a loaded / tense / ready-to-use / activated state.

[0108] In the context of this invention, loading the energy storage device 7 is preferably understood as (further) compressing the drive spring forming the energy storage device 7. Therefore, energy is preferably stored in the loaded energy storage device 7. The activated, tensioned, and / or loaded state of the sprayer 1 is preferably a state in which the drive spring is (further) compressed relative to its unloaded, untensioned, and / or initial state, and / or a state in which the sprayer 1 can be actuated and / or a certain dose of fluid 2 can be dispensed.

[0109] The unloaded, untensioned, and / or initial state of the sprayer 1 is preferably a state in which the drive spring is less relaxed or less compressed compared to the loaded, tensioned, and / or activated state. Most preferably, the unloaded, untensioned, and / or initial state is the state after the sprayer 1 is actuated and / or immediately after a dose of fluid 2 is dispensed.

[0110] Preferably, the energy stored in the energy storage device 7 is released by extending the drive spring from a compressed / tensioned state (partially) to an initial / untensioned state. However, other solutions are also possible, for example, in which the loading of the energy storage device 7 (especially the tensioning of the drive spring) is understood as causing the drive spring to extend (further) relative to its untensioned / initial state, and the energy stored in the drive spring is released by the (partial) contraction of the drive spring.

[0111] During the dispensing process, i.e., after actuating / pressing the blocking element 8, the container 3, retainer 6, connecting element 9 and / or (now closed) check valve 10 are preferably directed toward and / or relatively toward the nozzle 12 and / or mouthpiece 13 and / or away from the base / bottom of the sprayer 1 (in Figure 1 and Figure 2 They move upwards (together), thereby reducing the volume of pressure chamber 11.

[0112] Because of the now-closed check valve 10, the fluid 2 or a certain dose thereof in the pressure chamber 11 is pressurized. Therefore, during the dispensing process, the check valve 10 preferably acts as a pressure head or piston.

[0113] The pressure generated in this manner causes fluid 2, or a certain dose thereof, to flow through nozzle 12, whereby it is atomized / distributed, preferably in the form of aerosol 14, such as by Figure 1 The dotted line indicates this.

[0114] Generally, the sprayer 1 operates at a spring and / or fluid pressure (in pressure chamber 11) of at least 5 MPa or 10 MPa, particularly at least 20 MPa and / or at most 200 MPa or 150 MPa, and most preferably at least substantially 30 MPa.

[0115] Fluid 2 is converted or atomized into aerosol 14, the droplets of which have an aerodynamic diameter of up to 20 μl, preferably at least 3 μl and / or up to 10 μl.

[0116] The generated spray is preferably conical and / or has an opening angle of at least 20°, preferably at least 60° or 80° and / or at most 160°, particularly at most 120° or 100°.

[0117] The user / patient (not shown) can inhale the aerosol 14 generated in this manner, preferably while simultaneously drawing air into the mouthpiece 13 through at least one optional air supply opening 15.

[0118] Preferably, the aerosol 14 is located at the top of the sprayer 1 and / or in the direction of axis A (in... Figure 1 and Figure 2 (Distributed upwards from the middle).

[0119] During normal operation, the axis A of the sprayer 1 or container 3 is preferably aligned at least substantially vertically. However, the sprayer 1 may also be used / held in any other position during the loading and / or dispensing process.

[0120] Preferably, spatial expressions such as “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” “upper,” and “lower” refer to the preferred orientation in which axis A is at least substantially vertically aligned and aerosol 14 is distributed at the top / upward. These spatial expressions also correspond to the orientations depicted in the figures.

[0121] The sprayer 1 preferably includes an upper housing portion 16, an intermediate / inner portion 17, and / or a lower housing portion 18, preferably wherein portions 16, 17, and 18 are separate components. Preferably, the upper housing portion 16 and the lower housing portion 18 form the housing of the sprayer 1.

[0122] The internal portion 17 preferably includes an upper internal portion 17A and a lower internal portion 17B. The upper internal portion 17A and the lower internal portion 17B are preferably formed together as a single piece.

[0123] The internal portion 17 is preferably at least substantially cylindrical, particularly formed as a hollow cylinder. The axis A of the sprayer 1 preferably coincides with, or is the axis of symmetry of the internal portion 17 / cylindrical axis.

[0124] The upper housing portion 16 and the lower housing portion 18 preferably each include or form an axial end of the preferably elongated sprayer 1. Preferably, an intermediate / inner portion 17 is arranged between the upper housing portion 16 and the lower housing portion 18 and / or mechanically connects the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion. In particular, the upper inner portion 17A is connected to the upper housing portion 16, and the lower inner portion 17B is connected to the lower housing portion 18.

[0125] The upper housing portion 16 preferably includes or forms the nozzle 13, while the lower housing portion 18 preferably includes or forms the bottom / base of the sprayer 1.

[0126] The inner portion 17 and / or the lower housing portion 18 are movable, preferably rotatable, relative to the upper housing portion 16 and / or the mouthpiece 13. In particular, the lower housing portion 18 is manually rotatable and / or preferably releasably secured / assembled / held to the inner portion 17 by means of a retaining element 19.

[0127] In order to insert and / or replace container 3, sprayer 1 (in particular lower housing portion 18) can be opened and / or lower housing portion 18 can be removed from sprayer 1 (in particular its internal portion 17).

[0128] The lower housing portion 18 is preferably cap-shaped and / or fitted around or above the bottom of the container 3. Most preferably, the sprayer 1 (particularly its upper housing portion 16, lower housing portion 18, and / or internal portion 17) completely (i.e., axially and radially) surrounds the container 3. However, other solutions are also possible, for example, in which the container 3 protrudes axially beyond the sprayer 1.

[0129] As already mentioned, the sprayer 1 or the accumulator 7 is preferably tensioned / loaded manually, particularly by actuation / rotation of the actuating member, preferably by rotation of the lower housing portion 18 or any other component relative to the upper housing portion 16, preferably carrying it or driving the internal portion 17.

[0130] The internal portion 17 preferably acts on a gear / transmission (not shown) to convert rotation into axial movement of the container 3, the retainer 6, and / or the connecting element 9. Thus, by means of the gear or transmission formed between the internal portion 17 and the retainer 6, the accumulator 7 is loaded in the axial direction, and in particular the drive spring is tensioned.

[0131] During the loading process, the container 3, retainer 6, and / or connecting element 9 move axially away from the nozzle 12 and / or the mouthpiece 13 and / or toward the bottom of the sprayer 1 until the container 3, retainer 6, and / or connecting element 9 occupy / take the lower position, such as Figure 2 As shown. In this activated / tensioned / loaded state of the sprayer 1 and / or when the container 3 is in the lower position, the accumulator 7 is loaded, in particular the drive spring is in a tensioned state and is held or retained by the blocking element 8, as already mentioned.

[0132] During the subsequent dispensing process, which is preferably initiated by actuating or releasing the blocking element 8 (e.g., by pressing the release button 8A), the container 3, the holder 6, and / or the connecting element 9 are moved back to their original / initial / upper position, as... Figure 1 As shown, in particular, the force is transmitted through the energy storage device 7.

[0133] Therefore, the container 3, the holder 6 and / or the connecting element 9 preferably perform lifting or stroke movement along the (motion) axis A during the loading and dispensing process.

[0134] Upon initial contact with container 3, a venting / ventilation device (such as a puncture element 20 disposed in the sprayer 1 or its housing, particularly the lower housing portion 18) preferably opens the venting / ventilation feature or vent 3B of container 3 and / or punctures the cap, foil, or seal of container 3, particularly at the base 3A of container 3. In this way, air can flow into container 3, and pressure compensation can occur when fluid 2 is withdrawn from container 3 during loading of sprayer 1. Preferably, the puncture element 20 is disposed at an axially acting spring 21 adjacent to the base 3A of container 3 when sprayer 1 is initially loaded or tensioned, particularly due to the lifting / stroke movement of container 3.

[0135] Preferably, the sprayer 1 or its nozzle 13 can be closed by an optional nozzle cap 22 in an unloaded / untensioned state, such as Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown. The mouthpiece cap 22 is preferably pivotable to allow the mouthpiece 13 to be opened for use of the sprayer 1.

[0136] Preferably, the sprayer 1 includes a locking device 24 that, in a locked state when a certain number of actuations, operations, or dispensing doses have been reached or exceeded, locks the sprayer 1 to prevent (further) actuation or use, particularly blocking further rotation of the housing portion 18 / internal portion 17 and thus loading of the sprayer 1 or its energy storage 7 (implementation shown in the figures), or (in an alternative or additional) blocking actuation of the blocking element 8 (not shown in the embodiment depicted in the figures).

[0137] Preferably, the sprayer 1 includes a drive device 23 and / or an indicator device 25 for driving or actuating the locking device 24.

[0138] In the following text and reference Figures 3 to 8 The preferred embodiment of the sprayer 1 according to the invention is described and illustrated, wherein the important aspects and differences will be described in detail, and the previous aspects, features and descriptions are preferably applied additionally or correspondingly, even without repetition.

[0139] Figure 3 A schematic front view of the proposed sprayer 1 is shown when it is fully assembled with the inserted container 3 and in a loaded / tensioned state. Figure 4 It shows that according to Figure 3 A schematic cross-section of a sprayer. Figure 5 A schematic exploded view of certain parts of the sprayer 1 is shown, including the internal part 17, the drive unit 23, the energy storage unit 7, the indicator device 25, and the lower housing part 18.

[0140] The sprayer 1 according to the invention preferably includes an indicator device 25.

[0141] The indicator device 25 preferably counts and / or indicates the dose of fluid 2 that has been or may still be discharged from the sprayer 1, or that has been or may still be discharged from the sprayer 1. In particular, the indicator device 25 is used to count and / or indicate the number of times that have been or may still be actuated or used using the sprayer 1 and / or container 3.

[0142] In the context of this invention, the actuation (use or operation) of the sprayer 1 is preferably understood as a process performed by the user to atomize or expel a dose of fluid 2 (particularly for inhalation by the user), or to tension or load the sprayer 1 to atomize or expel a dose of fluid 2.

[0143] As explained above, each actuation (or use) preferably comprises a two-stage procedure. In the first step (loading or tensioning process), energy is transferred to the energy storage unit 7 and / or the pump chamber 11 is filled with fluid 2. In the second step (dispensing or nebulization process), the stored energy is released and / or fluid 2 is ejected from the pump chamber 11, thereby causing a dose of fluid 2 to be dispensed / dispensed / nebulized. These two steps or processes are preferably initiated individually or sequentially by the user or patient, particularly manually.

[0144] Preferably, the loading and dispensing processes are performed by the user / patient shortly after each other. Therefore, it is sufficient for the indicator device 25 to indicate or count the loading process or loading of the energy storage device 7 as an actuation. Alternatively or additionally, the dispensing process or release of energy from the energy storage device 7 can be detected or recorded by the indicator device 25 as an actuation.

[0145] Particularly preferably, actuation of the sprayer 1 is or includes rotating the inner portion 17, particularly about its axis of symmetry and / or relative to the upper portion 16. This rotation can be a partial rotation (e.g., about 180°) or a complete rotation.

[0146] It should be noted that the indicator device 25 does not necessarily need to count or indicate each actuation of the sprayer 1, and / or may only indicate or count batch actuations of more than one actuation, such as batch actuations of two or five actuations. However, the indicator device 25 preferably indicates or counts a small number of batches, particularly at most five or ten actuations.

[0147] When using sprayer 1 for the first time, sprayer 1 may need to be actuated several times, especially since accumulator 7 needs to be loaded and released several times, for example, two to three times, before the full dose of fluid 2 can be atomized. The need to actuate sprayer 1 several times before operation is called pre-excitation.

[0148] Pre-excitation is particularly necessary because the delivery mechanism and / or fluid pump 5 (especially pressure chamber 11 and / or connecting element 9) of nebulizer 1 are initially empty and / or filled with air, i.e., not filled with fluid 2. In this case, actuation of nebulizer 1 may only cause the delivery mechanism / fluid pump 5 to be filled with fluid 2 or the air to be expelled from the delivery mechanism / fluid pump. In other words, fluid 2 drawn or extracted from container 3 is used to fill fluid pump 5 with fluid 2, such that not the full dose of fluid 2 or even no fluid 2 is dispensed or atomized. Once the delivery mechanism / fluid pump 5 is fully filled with fluid 2, normal use / operation of nebulizer 1 (especially the atomization of the (full) dose of fluid 2) becomes possible.

[0149] The atomizer 1 is preferably configured to minimize pre-excitation, for example, to make the atomizer 1 operable for atomization after two or three initial actuations. In particular, the atomizer 1 is configured such that initial pre-excitation is necessary, and no further pre-excitation is required. The atomizer 1 can also be configured to completely avoid pre-excitation, for example, by pressurizing the container 3.

[0150] Preferably, the pre-excitation of sprayer 1 is not counted or indicated as used or actuated by indicator device 25. Instead, indicator device 25 may be adapted to indicate that (initial) pre-excitation is necessary and / or to indicate when pre-excitation is completed.

[0151] The indicator device 25 preferably operates mechanically.

[0152] Preferably, the indicator device 25 counts the actuation by detecting the rotation of the internal portion 17 relative to the upper housing portion 16. In other words, the indicator device 25 can count the loading (especially the tensioning process) of the sprayer 1 or its energy storage 7 (especially the drive spring).

[0153] Preferably, the indicator device 25 includes an indicator element 26 and / or an indicator housing 27.

[0154] The indicator element 26 and / or the indicator housing 27 are preferably formed from integral and / or molded portions.

[0155] The indicator element 26 is preferably at least substantially annular. Particularly preferably, the indicator element 26 forms or comprises a preferably closed ring or sleeve.

[0156] Preferably, the indicator element 26 is rotatable and / or indexed each time a detection or counting actuation occurs (e.g., each or every second when sprayer 1 is loaded / tensioned, container 3 moves, fluid 2 is drawn from container 3, fluid 2 is atomized, accumulator 7 pressurizes fluid 2, etc.). Indexing means that the indicator element 26 moves forward in increments or steps, particularly each time sprayer 1 is actuated or loaded or every second time sprayer 1 is actuated or loaded.

[0157] The rotational position of the indicator element 26 preferably corresponds to the number of actuations performed or still possible using the sprayer 1 or container 3. In particular, the position is visible to the user to indicate or show the number of actuations.

[0158] Preferably, the indicator element 26 includes a mark 26A, such as one or more symbols, numbers, colored areas, or shaded areas, to at least roughly indicate the number of actuations that have been performed or may still be performed using the sprayer 1 or container 3. In particular, the indicator element 26 preferably includes a circumferential wall or outer surface with the mark 26A.

[0159] In the illustrated embodiment, the indicator element 26 includes or is provided with numbers and / or graduations as markers 26A. Preferably, the markers 26A (in particular the numbers and / or graduations) form a scale through which the number of actuations or uses performed or still possible can be read.

[0160] Preferably, the indicator element 26 performs its rotational or indexing movement with each actuation of the sprayer, particularly during pre-excitation. However, the marker 26A is preferably arranged such that the first few actuations (e.g., the first 4 to 6 actuations) are not counted or indicated. In this way, pre-excitation can be taken into account.

[0161] In addition, marking 26A may include a first symbol or area indicating that sprayer 1 is not yet immediately available and / or needs to be pre-excited, for example, an area and / or symbol shown before the first number and / or graduation line, such as a region of different colors, a (green) triangle, etc.

[0162] Furthermore, the marker 26A may include a symbol (e.g., a green dot) indicating that pre-excitation has been completed, which is preferably shown (just after) the area requiring pre-excitation and / or the symbol and / or (just before) the first digit and / or the graduation line. Alternatively, the first digit and / or the graduation line may be used as a symbol indicating that pre-excitation has been completed and / or may be distinguishably colored, etc.

[0163] Furthermore, the mark 26A may include a final symbol or area, which, for example, indicates the end of use of the sprayer 1 or the complete locking of the sprayer 1 by means of an "X", a red area, etc. This symbol may be shown, for example, when the permissible number of actuations of the sprayer 1 has been reached or exceeded, and thus may indicate the total or final locking of the sprayer 1 (particularly by means of the locking device 24).

[0164] The indicator housing 27 preferably receives, accommodates, holds, and / or covers the indicator element 26. In particular, the indicator housing 27 is at least substantially cylindrical and / or annular and / or at least substantially similar to or corresponding to the formation of the indicator element 26.

[0165] The inner diameter of the indicator housing 27 is preferably larger than or corresponds to the outer diameter of the indicator element 26.

[0166] The indicator element 26 is preferably rotatably held by the housing 27. In particular, the indicator element 26 is rotatable relative to and / or within the housing 27.

[0167] The indicator device 25 or indicator housing 27 preferably includes a window 27A through which the associated markings 26A (in particular, numbers and / or graduations corresponding to the number of actuations performed or still possible using the sprayer 1 or container 3) are visible to the user / patient, preferably through a particularly transparent housing portion 18.

[0168] Preferably, the indicator housing 27 includes or forms a pointer 27B (e.g., a protrusion in the window 27A) that points to or indicates a relevant mark 26A, particularly a number and / or graduation line corresponding to the number of actuations performed or still possible using the sprayer 1 or container 3.

[0169] The lower housing portion 18 is preferably transparent, such that the indicator device 25 (particularly the indicator element 26 or associated mark 26A) is visible when the sprayer 1 is closed, particularly when the lower housing portion 18 is attached to the upper housing portion 16 or the inner portion 17. However, other solutions are also possible, such as the lower housing portion 18 having a window or recess through which the indicator device 25 is visible.

[0170] Sprayer 1 may optionally include, for example Figure 3 and Figure 5 The drive unit cover 28 is shown. The drive unit cover 28 preferably covers the drive unit 23, particularly the shaft 30 of the drive unit 23, to protect and / or make the drive unit 23 invisible in the assembled state. However, other solutions are also possible. For example, the lower housing portion 18 may be opaque in the area of ​​the drive unit 23.

[0171] In another embodiment (not shown), the drive unit 23 may form a second indicator device as explained in more detail below. In this case, it is desirable that the drive unit 23 or a portion thereof remain visible. Thus, the drive unit cover 28 may be transparent or may be omitted.

[0172] The indicator device 25 is preferably located in or attached to the internal portion 17, particularly its lower portion 17B.

[0173] Particularly preferably, the indicator device 25 is located at or attached to the free end or axial end of the particularly cylindrical inner portion 17, particularly attached to the lower free end or axial end of the inner portion 17, i.e., received or housed in one end of the lower housing portion 18 when the sprayer 1 is closed or fully assembled.

[0174] The indicator device 25 is preferably located or attached to the internal portion 17 such that the axis of symmetry of the indicator device 25, particularly its cylindrical or annular shape (especially its indicator element 26 and / or indicator housing 27), coincides with the axis A of the sprayer 1 or the internal portion 17. Preferably, the indicator element 26 and the indicator housing 27 are arranged concentrically.

[0175] Particularly preferably, the indicator device 25 is directly and / or non-removably attached to the internal portion 17, particularly its (lower) free end or axial end. For example, the indicator device 25 (particularly the housing 27) may be glued or welded, particularly preferably by hot pressing, ultrasonic molding or ultrasonic welding, to the internal portion 17, particularly its (lower) axial end or free end.

[0176] Specifically, the indicator device 25 is (permanently) fixed to the sprayer 1 or the internal part 17, and / or cannot be removed from the sprayer 1 or the internal part 17 and / or cannot be replaced or replaced.

[0177] When the sprayer 1 is closed or fully assembled, the indicator device 25 is preferably received or housed within the lower housing portion 18. However, the indicator device 25 is preferably implemented as separate from or independent of the lower housing portion 18 and / or indirectly connected to the lower housing portion 18 only via the internal portion 17. In particular, when the sprayer 1 is opened or the lower housing portion 18 is removed, the indicator device 25 remains in the sprayer 1 or the internal portion 17.

[0178] The indicator device 25 or the indicator housing 27 is preferably fixed stationary or immovable or rotatably relative to the inner portion 17 and / or the lower housing portion 18.

[0179] The indicator element 26 is preferably movable, and in particular rotatable, relative to the inner portion 17, the lower housing portion 18, and / or the indicator housing 27. Particularly preferably, the indicator element 26 is rotatable about the (common) axis A of the sprayer 1, the inner portion 17, the lower housing portion 18, and / or the indicator device 25.

[0180] The indicator device 25 is particularly preferably located at or attached to the retaining portion 29 or the internal portion 17 of the sprayer 1. Particularly preferably, the indicator device 25 is non-removably attached to the retaining portion 29.

[0181] The retaining portion 29 is preferably arranged at the inner portion 17 or forms part of the inner portion 17.

[0182] The retaining portion 29 is preferably connected to the (lower) axial end or free end of the inner portion 17 or its lower portion 17B, particularly preferably by a snap-fit ​​engagement, in order to retain, support or prop up one end (lower end) of the energy storage device 7 (especially the drive spring).

[0183] The holding portion 29 preferably holds, supports, or biases the energy storage device 7.

[0184] The preferred structure of the retaining portion 29 is in Figure 5 As shown in the figure. The retaining portion 29 is preferably annular or formed as a ring. In particular, the retaining portion 29 includes or forms a preferably annular support surface 29A for the energy storage device 7 (especially the drive spring).

[0185] The retaining portion 29 is preferably provided with a hook or arm 29B, which in particular protrudes from the support surface 29A in the axial direction or upward.

[0186] In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining portion 29 preferably includes a plurality (in this case, four) arms 29B circumferentially distributed around the retaining portion 29 or the supporting surface 29A.

[0187] Arm 29B is preferably provided for interconnection with internal portion 17.

[0188] The inner portion 17 (particularly its lower portion 17B) preferably includes corresponding recesses 17C for interconnection with the arm 29B of the retaining portion 29, in the illustrated example being four recesses 17C.

[0189] Preferably, arm 29B can engage or hook into recess 17C to form a form-fit and / or force-fit and / or snap-fit ​​connection between retaining portion 29 and inner portion 17 or lower portion 17B. Arm 29B is preferably (partially) flexible to facilitate form-fit and / or snap-fit ​​connection.

[0190] When assembling the sprayer 1, the accumulator 7 or drive spring is preferably inserted into the inner portion 17 (particularly from below), and then the retaining portion 29 is pushed against the lower end or free end of the accumulator 7 with its supporting surface 29A until a connection is established between the retaining portion 29 and the inner portion 17 or the lower portion 17B, particularly by the shape fit and / or snap fit of the arm 29B with the recess 17C.

[0191] The drive spring is preferably held in the inner portion 17, biased or pre-tensioned or partially compressed, especially by means of the retaining portion 29, and particularly preferably also in the unloaded or untensioned state of the sprayer 1.

[0192] When loading or tensioning the sprayer 1 or the accumulator 7, the drive spring is preferably further tensioned or compressed. When releasing the accumulator 7, the drive spring is preferably relaxed to its previous biased, pre-tensioned, or pre-compressed state.

[0193] The bias, pretension, or precompression is preferably configured such that the drive spring is more tensioned or compressed than it would be without pretension / precompression. In this way, a higher force is achieved during relaxation, which allows the fluid 2 to be atomized better.

[0194] Preferably, it is not possible to manually disconnect or disengage the retaining portion 29 (especially arm 29B) from the inner portion 17 or the lower portion 17B (especially recess 17C).

[0195] In particular, the retaining portion 29 is preferably non-removably attached to or connected to the inner portion 17 or the lower portion 17B by a snap-fit ​​connection, especially by the arm 29B engaging the recess 17C. It is preferably impossible to remove the retaining portion 29 from the inner portion 17 or the lower portion 17B or release the snap-fit ​​connection without tools and / or without damaging the sprayer 1, the inner portion 17, and / or the retaining portion 29.

[0196] Preferably, the sprayer 1, the internal portion 17, the indicator device 25, or the retaining portion 29, or the support portion 29C of the internal portion 17 or the retaining portion 29, rotatably support or retain the indicator element 26, preferably through axial and / or radial engagement. In particular, the retaining portion 29 or the support portion 29C forms a support for the rotation of the indicator element 26.

[0197] The retaining portion 29 preferably includes a circumferential or annular support portion 29C for the indicator element 26. The indicator element 26 is preferably radially supported and / or supported and / or surrounds the retaining portion 29 or its support portion 29C by the support portion 29C.

[0198] Preferably, the inner diameter of the indicator element 26 corresponds at least substantially to the outer diameter of the support portion 29C. However, the indicator element 26 is preferably rotatably supported or supported by the retaining portion 29 or the support portion 29C. In particular, the indicator element 26 can rotate on the retaining portion 29 or the support portion 29C.

[0199] The internal portion 17 or the retaining portion 29 preferably includes a connecting portion 29D for connecting the indicator device 25 or the indicator housing 27 to the internal portion 17 or the retaining portion 29.

[0200] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting portion 29D is preferably formed as one or more radial protrusions or as the circumferential edge of the retaining portion 29. Specifically, the indicator housing 27 can be glued or welded to the connecting portion 29D, particularly preferably by hot pressing, ultrasonic forming, or ultrasonic welding. However, other solutions are also possible, for example, connecting the indicator device 25 by snap-fit ​​or the like.

[0201] Preferably, the indicator device 25 is located at or attached to the retaining portion 29. However, other solutions are also possible, wherein the indicator device 25 is (directly) attached to other portions of the internal portion 17, particularly (directly) attached to the lower internal portion 17B, especially preferably in a non-removable manner. In this case, the internal portion 17 may (directly) include one or more corresponding connecting portions 29D.

[0202] Preferably, a portion of the indicator device 25 (such as a support portion or indicator housing 27) is formed by another structural component of the sprayer 1 and / or by an internal portion 17 and / or by a portion thereof (particularly by a retaining portion 29 or its support portion 29C).

[0203] The container 3 is preferably located inside the internal portion 17 and / or the indicator device 25. In particular, the container 3 is surrounded by the internal portion 17, the energy storage unit 7, the indicator device 25, the indicator element 26, the indicator housing 27 and / or the retaining portion 29.

[0204] According to one aspect, the height or axial extension of the indicator device 25 or its housing 27 preferably corresponds at least substantially to the length of the lifting / stroke movement of the container 3. In this way, a very compact construction of the sprayer 1 can be achieved and / or the available space within the sprayer 1 can be optimally or maximized.

[0205] Preferably, the length of the stroke movement and / or the height of the indicator device 25 or the housing 27 is at least 5 mm, particularly at least 7 mm, especially preferably at least 8.5 mm, and / or at most 30 mm, particularly at most 15 mm, especially preferably at most 9.5 mm.

[0206] When the sprayer 1 is in the loaded state, the container 3 preferably protrudes only from the indicator device 25 or the indicator housing 27 with its container base 3A, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown. However, the container base 3A can also be flush with the indicator device 25 or the indicator housing 27 in the loaded state. For ease of insertion, it is therefore preferable that the container 3 is inserted into the sprayer 1 in the loaded state.

[0207] As mentioned above, the sprayer 1 preferably includes a drive unit 23, particularly for driving or actuating the locking device 24 and / or the indicator device 25.

[0208] The indicator element 26 is preferably driven by the drive device 23 or its shaft 30. In particular, the drive device 23 or shaft 30 is adapted to rotate or further rotate the indicator element 26 when the sprayer 1 is actuated or loaded.

[0209] Preferably, the drive unit 23 serves as a transmission device, specifically causing the rotation of the inner part 17 relative to the upper housing part 16 for loading the sprayer 1 or the energy storage 7 to be transmitted via the drive unit 23, resulting in the rotation of the indicator element 26.

[0210] Particularly preferably, the drive unit 23 is adapted to drive or actuate both the indicator element 26 and the locking device 24. However, a solution where the drive unit 23 only drives or actuates the indicator element 26 is also possible. The locking device 24 may be driven or actuated by a different device. Alternatively, the locking device 24 may not be provided, or the locking of the sprayer 1 may not be provided.

[0211] See below, especially Figure 6 and Figure 7 The drive unit 23 and its preferred connection with the indicator element 26 are explained in more detail. Figure 6 With similar Figure 3 The view shows the proposed sprayer 1, but without the container 3, lower housing portion 18, indicator housing 27, and drive unit cover 28. Figure 7 A schematic side view of the internal portion 17 with the attached drive unit 23 and indicator unit 25 is shown.

[0212] The drive unit 23 is preferably formed by or includes the shaft 30.

[0213] In the assembled state, the shaft 30 preferably extends in the axial direction and / or at least substantially parallel to axis A. Preferably, the shaft 30 extends laterally or is positioned at the sprayer 1 (particularly the inner portion 17). Particularly preferably, the shaft 30 extends at least substantially along the entire (axial) length of the lower inner portion 17B.

[0214] The shaft 30 is preferably attached, particularly clamped, to the inner portion 17 or its lower portion 17B. The inner portion 17 preferably includes one or more retaining portions 17D for holding the shaft 30 within the inner portion 17. In particular, the one or more retaining portions 17D may be implemented as protrusions into which the shaft 30 may be clamped, for example... Figure 7 As shown.

[0215] The one or more retaining portions 17D are preferably implemented as retaining arms and / or forks. Preferably, the retaining portions 17D are flexible and / or chamfered and / or each includes introduced chamfers, particularly for facilitating clamping or insertion of the shaft 30.

[0216] Preferably, the shaft 30 is axially and / or radially supported and / or fixed by one or more retaining portions 17D.

[0217] The inner portion 17, particularly its lower portion 17B, preferably forms or includes a support lug 17E for (radially and / or axially) supporting the shaft 30. In particular, the shaft 30 is supported (radially and / or axially) by the inner portion 17 or the support lug 17E, especially from the side and / or below.

[0218] Preferably, the shaft 30 extends through and / or extends to the other side of the support lug 17E, particularly at its (lower) free end or axial end and / or at portion 30A. Portion 30A is preferably thinned to facilitate axial support of the shaft 30 at the support lug 17E. Specifically, only the thinned portion 30A fits through the support lug 17E. However, the shaft 30 may also exclude the thinned portion 30A and / or be radially supported only by the support lug 17E.

[0219] Particularly preferably, the shaft 30 is rotatably held or supported at the inner portion 17, particularly by means of one or more holding portions 17D and / or support lugs 17E. In other words, when attached to the sprayer 1 or the inner portion 17, the shaft 30 is preferably rotatable about its longitudinal axis.

[0220] However, solutions that only include the retaining portion 17D and / or omit the supporting lug 17E are also possible. Preferably, in this case, the shaft 30 is held at both axial ends by means of the retaining portion 17D (rotatably).

[0221] In addition, the drive cover 28 can be formed as a support or brace for the shaft 30.

[0222] The drive unit 23 or shaft 30 preferably includes a drive gear 31 for driving, rotating or indexing the indicator element 26.

[0223] The drive gear 31 is preferably a separate part, which can be plugged or clamped to the shaft 30 or otherwise attached to the shaft 30. However, it is also possible for the drive gear 31 to form part of the shaft 30 or to be integrally formed therewith (especially injection molded onto the shaft 30).

[0224] The drive gear 31 is preferably located at or attached to the lower free end or axial end of the shaft 30 (particularly the (thinned) portion 30A). In particular, the drive gear 31 may be inserted into the portion 30A.

[0225] The drive gear 31 is preferably attached or connected to the shaft 30 in a manner that makes it rotatably fixed relative to the shaft 30. In other words, the drive gear 31 is preferably rotatable with the shaft 30.

[0226] The shaft 30 is preferably held or secured in an axially and / or radially defined position, particularly by means of a support lug 17E and / or a drive gear 31 and / or one or more retaining portions 17D.

[0227] Particularly preferably, the drive unit 23 or shaft 30 is non-removably attached to or connected to the internal portion 17.

[0228] The indicator housing 27 preferably includes a receiving portion 27C for receiving or accommodating the drive gear 31. In particular, in the assembled state, the drive gear 31 is preferably located inside the indicator housing 27.

[0229] Preferably, the retaining portion 29 or the connecting portion 29D (in particular, the protrusion for connection with the receiving portion 27C) includes an opening 29E through which the drive device 23, the shaft 30 and / or the drive gear 31 can extend into the indicator device 25 (in particular the indicator housing 27 or its receiving portion 27C).

[0230] The preferred method for assembling the sprayer 1 (partially) will be described below. Individual steps may be omitted or performed in a different order.

[0231] Preferably, in the first step, the internal part 17 is assembled by inserting the energy storage device 7 or the drive spring and holding it in place using the retaining part 29.

[0232] Preferably, in a second or further step, the drive unit 23 or shaft 30 is attached to the internal portion 17. This is preferably performed by first inserting the shaft 30 with its (lower) free end or axial end into the support lug 17E and then (particularly by means of pivoting movement) clamping it into the one or more retaining portions 17D.

[0233] Particularly preferably, the shaft 30 is first attached to the inner portion 17 by means of the retaining portion 17D and / or the support lug 17E, as described above, and then, particularly preferably, the drive gear 31 is attached (particularly inserted into) the shaft 30 (particularly its thinned portion 30A) from below. Preferably, the shaft 30, particularly its thinned portion 30A, is first inserted or guided through the support lug 17E, and then secured from below by the drive gear 31.

[0234] However, other solutions are also possible. For example, if the support lug 17E is omitted, as explained above, the drive gear 31 can be secured to the shaft 30 before attaching the shaft 30 to the sprayer 1 or the internal portion 17, particularly by clamping it into the retaining portion 17D. In this case, the drive gear 31 can also be integrally formed with the shaft 30.

[0235] Preferably, in a third or further step, the upper housing portion 16 is attached to or combined with the inner portion 17, particularly in a non-removable manner. This step is preferably performed after the drive unit 23 or shaft 30 has been attached to the inner portion 17. In this way, the drive unit 23 and / or shaft 30 are preferably secured by the upper portion 16, and / or the removal of the drive unit 23 and / or shaft 30 is prevented or rendered impossible.

[0236] Preferably, in the fourth or further step, after the drive unit 23 or shaft 30 has been attached to the sprayer 1 or the internal part 17, particularly preferably after the drive gear 31 has been attached to the shaft 30, the indicator device 25, indicator element 26 and / or indicator housing 27 are attached to the sprayer 1 or the internal part 17 (in particular the retaining part 29 or one or more of its connecting parts 29D).

[0237] In the fifth or further or final step, container 3 may be inserted and / or lower housing portion 18 may be attached.

[0238] Preferably, the indicator element 26 is first placed in the sprayer 1 or the inner part 17 (especially in the retaining part 29 or its support part 29C), and then secured by means of the indicator housing 27.

[0239] Preferably, the shaft 30 or drive gear 31 is first attached to the sprayer 1 or the internal part 17, as explained above, and then secured by means of the indicator housing 27.

[0240] Preferably, the indicator housing 27 is attached to the sprayer 1 or the internal portion 17 (particularly the retaining portion 29 or one or more of its connecting portions 29D) in a non-removable manner (e.g., by ultrasonic welding), as explained above.

[0241] Preferably, the indicator device 25 / indicator element 26 and the shaft 30 are non-removably attached to the sprayer 1 and / or the internal part 17 and / or each other by means of a non-removable indicator housing 27.

[0242] Particularly preferably, the indicator device 25 or its indicator element 26 is non-removably attached to, or connected to, the drive device 23 or the shaft 30 or its drive gear 31, or operably coupled thereto.

[0243] The indicator element 26 preferably includes or forms an indicator gear or tooth 26B.

[0244] The teeth 26B are preferably disposed around the circumference of the indicator element 26, particularly on the outer side (forming external teeth). However, the teeth 26B can also be disposed on the inner side of the indicator element 26 (forming internal teeth).

[0245] The teeth of the tooth portion 26B preferably project in the radial direction, particularly such that teeth and gaps alternate along the circumference of the indicator element 26. Preferably, the teeth extend in the axial direction and / or are aligned parallel to the axis of rotation of the indicator element 26.

[0246] Particularly preferably, the indicator element 26 or the tooth 26B is implemented as or formed as a spur gear and / or a toothed wheel.

[0247] The tooth 26B is preferably integrally formed with or from the indicator element 26.

[0248] The drive mechanism 23 (particularly the drive gear 31) preferably meshes with the indicator element 26 or its teeth 26B (particularly permanently). In particular, the drive gear 31 and the teeth 26B mesh not only when the sprayer 1 is actuated, but also between two actuations.

[0249] The drive gear 31 preferably includes corresponding tooth portions and / or corresponding teeth, which in particular protrude in the radial direction and / or extend in the axial direction and / or are aligned parallel to the axis of rotation of the drive gear 31. In particular, the drive gear 31 is implemented as or formed as a spur gear.

[0250] This engagement is preferably such that the teeth of the tooth portion 26B and the drive gear 31 extend parallel to each other in the axial direction and / or such that the drive gear 31 is located next to or outside the (outer) circumference of the indicator element 26.

[0251] As mentioned above, the teeth 26B can be provided on the inner circumference of the indicator element 26, in which case the drive gear 31 is located on or inside the inner circumference of the indicator element 26. However, this makes the construction more complicated, making a variant with teeth 26B on the outer circumference preferred.

[0252] In principle, other solutions for the meshing and / or arrangement of the tooth 26B and / or the drive gear 31 are also possible. For example, the tooth 26B can be implemented as a sawtooth tooth with serrated teeth projecting in the axial direction, and the drive gear 31 can be axially positioned above the indicator element 26 for meshing. However, the above-described variant with radially projecting teeth on the outer circumference is preferred because it allows for more precise transmission and / or a particularly simple and / or compact arrangement and / or assembly.

[0253] Preferably, the indicator element 26 and the shaft 30 are rotatably connected to each other, particularly via the drive gear 31 and the teeth 26B.

[0254] Preferably, the drive unit 23 / shaft 30 and the indicator element 26 (particularly the drive gear 31 and teeth 26B) form a gear reduction. This means that the rotational speed of the drive unit 23 (particularly the shaft 30 or drive gear 31) is higher than the rotational speed of the indicator element 26 or teeth 26B. In particular, a complete revolution of the shaft 30 or drive gear 31 causes only a partial revolution of the indicator element 26, for example, a rotation of about 30°.

[0255] However, it should be noted that, in order to further rotate or reposition the indicator element 26, preferably only a partial rotation of the shaft 30 is required. When the shaft 30 has performed a full or complete rotation, the sprayer 1 has preferably been actuated more than once, and / or the indicator element 26 has preferably been rotated more than once, for example, five or six times.

[0256] A full circle or complete turn will be understood as a 360° rotation. Therefore, a half circle or half turn will be understood as a 180° rotation.

[0257] The gear ratio is a measure of gear reduction and indicates how the movement of the driving gear affects the movement of the driven gear. Specifically, when the driving gear rotates by a given angle, the angle of rotation of the driven gear can be inferred from the gear ratio. In other words, the gear ratio can be defined as a ratio of said angles.

[0258] The gear ratio can be used to determine how many full revolutions / rotations of the driving gear are required to cause one full revolution / rotation of the driven gear.

[0259] For example, a 10:1 gear ratio means that ten full revolutions of the driving gear (in the present case, drive gear 31) will cause or be equivalent to one full revolution of the driven gear (in the present case, indicator element 26 with teeth 26B). This also means that one full revolution of the driving gear will result in one-tenth of a full revolution of the driven gear, that is, a rotation of approximately 36°.

[0260] It should be noted that there are different ways to express the gear ratio. For example, a gear ratio of 5:2 is equivalent to a gear ratio of 2.5:1 and means that two full revolutions and one half revolution of the driving gear cause one full revolution of the driven gear, or, equivalently, five full revolutions of the driving gear cause two full revolutions of the driven gear.

[0261] One way to calculate the gear ratio is to divide the number of teeth on the driven gear by the number of teeth on the driving gear. If the teeth are evenly distributed, this is equivalent to dividing the diameter of the driven gear by the diameter of the driving gear.

[0262] It should be noted that the actual number or diameter of the teeth cannot usually be read from the gear ratio, as it is typically given as a reduced fraction. For example, a gear ratio of 10:1 can be achieved through tooth ratios or diameter ratios such as 50:5, 100:10, etc.

[0263] In the present case, the transmission ratio (hereinafter referred to as the first transmission ratio) between the indicator element 26 with teeth 26B and the drive gear 31 is given by the following: the ratio of the number of teeth of teeth 26B to the number of teeth of the drive gear 31 and / or the ratio of the diameter of teeth 26B to the diameter of the drive gear 31 and / or the angle ratio that determines the angle by which the indicator element 26 rotates when the drive gear 31 rotates a given angle.

[0264] Gear reduction is achieved, in particular, by a drive gear 31 having fewer teeth than tooth portion 26B and / or by a drive gear 31 having a smaller diameter than tooth portion 26B. The desired transmission ratio can preferably be set by adjusting the number and / or diameter of the teeth of tooth portion 26B and drive gear 31.

[0265] The first transmission ratio is preferably less than 30:1, especially less than 20:1 or 15:1, and / or greater than 5:1, especially greater than 10:1.

[0266] Preferably, the loading or tensioning of the sprayer 1, or the rotation of the internal portion 17 relative to the upper housing portion 16, drives the shaft 30, and therefore preferably indirectly drives the indicator element 26 as well. This drive of the shaft 30 (particularly by means of gear reduction) will be combined later. Figure 8 To explain.

[0267] As indicated above, in addition to driving the indicator element 26, the drive unit 23 is preferably implemented as driving the locking device 24 for locking the sprayer 1 to prevent further use. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0268] The drive unit 23 (particularly the shaft 30) preferably includes a threaded portion 30B with an associated sliding weight 32. When the shaft 30 is rotated, the sliding weight 32 moves axially (here upwards).

[0269] The rider 32 preferably includes an actuating portion 32A. The actuating portion 32A is preferably ridged and / or extends in the axial direction and / or toward and / or upward toward the upper housing portion 16.

[0270] When the sprayer 1 reaches or exceeds the predetermined value for operation or actuation, the actuating part 32A of the drive unit 23 or the rider 32 can actuate the locking device 24 to lock the sprayer 1 to prevent further operation or use, in particular by interlocking the internal part 17 with the upper housing part 16 or vice versa.

[0271] In the illustrated embodiment, locking is preferably achieved by the actuating portion 32A of the rider 32 cooperating with or actuating the locking spring 33 of the locking device 24, particularly by axially (upward) offsetting the locking spring 33. The locking spring 33 is installed in a pre-tensioned state such that when the locking spring 33 or a portion thereof is actuated or axially offset (hereby via the rider 32 or its actuating portion 32A) to lock the sprayer 1 or interlock its portions 16 and 17, the locking spring can extend radially and engage in radial recesses (particularly in the upper housing portion 16). However, other construction solutions are also possible.

[0272] When the total number of actuations of sprayer 1 has reached or exceeded a predetermined value, sprayer 1 or locking device 24 preferably provides a stop to the movement span. In this embodiment, the stop is achieved by locking spring 33, which ultimately locks sprayer 1 to prevent further use, particularly to prevent further loading or tension.

[0273] Since the rider 32 moves further (upward) along the axis 30 with each actuation of the sprayer 1, its axial position (roughly) corresponds to the number of actuations. Therefore, the drive unit 23 or the rider 32 can form a second indicator device.

[0274] The drive unit 23 or its rider 32 (in particular, the axial position of the rider 32 along the shaft 30) can (roughly) indicate or show the (total) number of operations (in particular, loading, actuation, or dosing) that have been performed or used by the sprayer 1 or can still be performed by the sprayer 1. This can be shown, in particular, by the pointer and / or associated scale (not shown) of the rider 32, which is visible through a corresponding window or transparent portion of the lower housing portion 18.

[0275] It is important to note that the numbers do not need to be displayed precisely. In particular, it is sufficient for the drive device 23 or the rider 32 to provide a rough indication of the numbers. For this purpose, it is sufficient if the scale only shows areas or zones of different colors that roughly indicate the numbers. Therefore, the drive device 23 can be used to provide a rough indication, while the indicator device 25 can provide a more precise indication or count.

[0276] However, in a preferred embodiment (as also shown in the figures), the rider 32 is provided only for actuating the locking device 24. Specifically, indication or counting is performed solely by the indicator device 25. In this case, the rider 32 is preferably invisible or covered, particularly by the drive cover 28. This has the advantage that the sprayer 1 includes an additional surface area that can be used for labeling, etc., which in other cases needs to be kept uncovered for the visibility of the second indicator device.

[0277] Other solutions for locking the sprayer 1 and / or forming the locking device 24 are also possible. In particular, the indicator element 26 can be blocked after final actuation, preferably after the indicator element 26 has performed at least a substantially complete turn or rotation. For example, the indicator element 26 may include a recess into which a locking spring or protrusion engages when the indicator element 26 reaches its final position or is rotated for the last time, thus preventing further rotation / rotation of the indicator element 26. The blocking of the indicator element 26 preferably also prevents rotation of the shaft 30, which in turn prevents rotation of the upper housing portion 16 relative to the inner portion 17.

[0278] In the following text, reference will be made in particular. Figure 8 To explain in more detail the drive mechanism for shaft 30, the figure shows the sprayer 1 along... Figure 4 The schematic cross-section of line VIII-VIII is shown.

[0279] The drive unit 23 or shaft 30 preferably includes a shaft gear 30C.

[0280] The shaft gear 30C is preferably located at the free end or axial end (especially the upper free end or axial end) of the shaft 30 opposite to the drive gear 31.

[0281] The shaft gear 30C is preferably formed on or integrally formed with the shaft 30. However, other construction solutions are also possible, in which the shaft gear 30C is implemented as a separate component fixed to the shaft 30. For example, the shaft gear 30C can be inserted into the shaft 30 similarly to the drive gear 31.

[0282] The shaft gear 30C is preferably constructed or arranged to mesh with the upper housing portion 16 such that when the sprayer 1 is loaded / tensioned, especially when the inner portion 17 (together with the shaft 30) rotates relative to the upper housing portion 16, the shaft 30 rotates.

[0283] The sprayer 1 (particularly the upper housing portion 16) preferably includes one or more drive portions 16A that cooperate or engage with the shaft gear 30C when the sprayer 1 is loaded / tensioned, preferably whenever the sprayer 1 is loaded / tensioned or at least every second time the sprayer 1 is loaded / tensioned.

[0284] Preferably, the engagement of the one or more drive portions 16A and the shaft gear 30C is only temporary and / or non-permanent and / or only when the sprayer 1 is actuated. In particular, the one or more drive portions 16A do not engage or mesh with the shaft gear 30C between two actuations.

[0285] Preferably, the shaft 30 or shaft gear 30C is associated with the inner portion 17, and the one or more drive portions 16A are associated with the upper housing portion 16. Therefore, when the inner portion 17 and the upper housing portion 16 rotate relative to each other, the drive portions 16A and the shaft gear 30C preferably also rotate relative to each other.

[0286] Preferably, the number and / or position of the drive portions 16A are such that for each load, (exactly) one of the drive portions 16A engages with the shaft gear 30C. However, alternative solutions are also possible, such as having more than one drive portion 16A engage or cooperate with the shaft gear 30C during a loading process, or for example, causing the shaft 30 to be driven only every second load.

[0287] Preferably, the number and / or position of the drive portions 16A correspond to the angle at which the inner portion 17 and the upper housing portion 16 rotate relative to each other to load the sprayer 1. For example, if full rotation is required, it is preferable to provide only one drive portion 16A.

[0288] In the illustrated embodiment, loading of the sprayer 1 is preferably performed by rotating the inner portion 17 and the upper housing portion 16 about half a turn (i.e., approximately 180°) relative to each other. Accordingly, the sprayer 1 or the upper housing portion 16 preferably includes two drive portions 16A located on opposite sides of the upper housing portion 16. In this way, (exactly) one drive portion 16A engages or cooperates with the shaft gear 30C during each loading process. However, other solutions are also possible. In particular, only one drive portion 16A can be provided, such that only every second actuation / half a turn results in a rotational movement of the shaft 30, and thus a rotational movement of the indicator element 26.

[0289] Preferably, the drive section 16A is arranged or positioned such that engagement / cooperation with the shaft gear 30C or rotation of the shaft 30 occurs only at the end of the loading process. In this way, it is ensured that the shaft 30 rotates only when the sprayer 1 is fully loaded. Therefore, actuation is preferably counted only when loading is complete.

[0290] exist Figure 8 In the example shown, the upper housing portion 16 rotates half a turn clockwise to load the sprayer 1. Therefore, the drive portion 16A shown only cooperates / engages with the shaft gear 30C and / or rotates / indexes the shaft 30 shortly before the half-turn is completed.

[0291] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive portion 16A is preferably formed by a protrusion, particularly an inwardly extending portion, of the upper housing portion 16. When the upper housing portion 16 rotates relative to the inner portion 17, one of the protrusions (in...) Figure 8 The protrusion located at least substantially opposite the shaft gear 30C will engage, mesh, or cooperate with the drive portion 30C.

[0292] Preferably, when the sprayer 1 is loaded, especially each time or at least every second time the sprayer 1 is loaded, the shaft 30 is rotated or rotated by a defined angle.

[0293] In the example shown, the shaft gear 30 preferably includes a plurality of radial protrusions or teeth 30D. In particular, in cross-section, the shaft gear 30C has a star-shaped form. The drive portion 16A may preferably engage between two protrusions / teeth 30D.

[0294] The actuation of the sprayer 1 (especially the loading of the accumulator 7) preferably causes a portion of the shaft 30 to rotate / turn, i.e., less than 360°, particularly preferably about 360° divided by the number of teeth 30D.

[0295] The drive mechanism for the drive shaft 30 preferably forms a gear reduction. In particular, the transmission ratio for the drive shaft 30 (hereinafter referred to as the second transmission ratio) is given by the ratio of the rotation of the upper housing portion 16 to the angle by which the shaft 30 has rotated after such rotation of the upper housing portion 16, and / or by the ratio of the number of teeth 30D to the number of drive portions 16A.

[0296] Preferably, the second gear ratio is at least 3:2 or 4:1 and / or at most 6:1 or 7:1.

[0297] exist Figure 8 In the specific example shown, the shaft gear 30C preferably includes five teeth 30D. Therefore, five or ten actuations preferably result in a full revolution / rotation of the shaft 30. Specifically, the second gear ratio is 5:2 or 5:1. In other words, corresponding to five or ten actuations of the sprayer 1, five half-turns or five full turns of the upper housing portion 16 preferably result in one full revolution / rotation of the shaft 30. However, other solutions are also possible.

[0298] In a particularly preferred embodiment (not shown), the shaft gear 30C comprises six teeth 30D. Therefore, six or twelve actuations preferably result in a full revolution / rotation of the shaft 30. Specifically, the second gear ratio is 6:2 or 6:1. In other words, corresponding to six or twelve actuations of the sprayer 1, six half-turns or six full turns of the upper housing portion 16 preferably result in one full revolution / rotation of the shaft 30.

[0299] Preferably, the second transmission ratio, the first transmission ratio, and / or the pitch of the threaded portion 30B are matched relative to each other.

[0300] Specifically, the first and second transmission ratios are matched such that rotation of the upper housing portion 16 relative to the inner portion 17 (particularly a half-turn) causes the indicator element 26 to rotate one step or to the next digit. For example, in the case where the nebulizer 1 is adapted to atomize 60 doses of fluid 2, rotation of the upper housing portion 16 relative to the inner portion 17 preferably causes a full rotation of the indicator element 26 by at least substantially or at most 6° or 1 / 60, such that after atomizing all 60 doses, the indicator element 26 has rotated at least substantially or less than 360°.

[0301] More generally, the first and second transmission ratios are preferably matched such that when the total dose of fluid 2 has been used / nebulized, the indicator element 26 has performed at least substantially a full rotation / revolution. However, it is also possible that when the total dose of fluid 2 has been used / nebulized, the indicator element 26 has only performed a partial rotation / revolution or has rotated less than 360°.

[0302] Particularly preferably, if each actuation of the sprayer 1 involves half a rotation of the upper housing portion 16 relative to the inner portion 17, the product of the first transmission ratio and the second transmission ratio is at least substantially half the total dose of fluid 2. In this way, it is ensured that the indicator element 26 has performed at least substantially one revolution / rotation when the total dose of fluid 2 has been atomized.

[0303] More generally, actuation of the sprayer 1 preferably causes partial rotation of the shaft 30 (partially by a defined angle), and this partial rotation further causes the indicator element 26 to be further rotated and / or causes partial rotation of the indicator element 26 (partially by a (different) defined angle).

[0304] The pitch of the threaded portion 30B is preferably adapted or matched such that the rider 32 actuates the locking device 24 after the final dose of fluid 2 has been atomized or when the indicator element 26 has performed at least substantially full rotation.

[0305] The sprayer 1 (particularly the internal portion 17 or the upper housing portion 16) preferably includes a positioning device 34, such asFigure 8 As shown.

[0306] Preferably, particularly between two actuations of the sprayer 1 and / or when the sprayer 1 is not actuated or used and / or in the closed or (fully) assembled state and / or in the unloaded state and / or in the loaded state, the positioning device 34 holds the shaft 30 in a defined rotational position.

[0307] Particularly preferably, the positioning device 34 holds the shaft 30 or shaft gear 30C in the respective defined rotational position before and after actuation, and / or allows rotational movement of the shaft 30 or shaft gear 30C only during actuation.

[0308] The positioning device 34 preferably holds the shaft 30 or shaft gear 30C in a defined (rotational) position by engaging and / or latching with the shaft 30 or shaft gear 30C.

[0309] Preferably, the shaft gear 30C (especially its teeth 30D) is held in a defined (rotational) position by means of the positioning device 34, so that engagement or meshing with the drive part 16A is (always) possible when the sprayer 1 is actuated.

[0310] In particular, in undefined positions, it is possible that, for example, when the drive portion 16A drives against the front of the tooth 30D instead of engaging or meshing between the two teeth 30D, the shaft gear 30C (especially the tooth 30D) and the drive portion 16A are positioned relative to each other such that the drive mechanism becomes blocked or jammed. This is preferably prevented by means of a positioning device 34.

[0311] Furthermore, in undefined positions, it is possible that the tooth 30D and the drive portion 16A do not mesh as intended, but instead collide with each other. In the worst case, this could lead to breakage of the tooth 30D or the drive portion 16A. This is preferably prevented by means of a positioning device 34.

[0312] Particularly preferably, the positioning device 34 blocks the shaft 30 from rotating backward, or serves as a check device or a return stop.

[0313] The positioning device 34 may be implemented, for example, as or include a protrusion (particularly a protrusion of the internal portion 17) that engages or latches between two teeth 30D of the shaft gear 30C, thereby preventing rotation in the direction opposite to the driving direction.

[0314] Preferably, the positioning device 34 also blocks rotation of the shaft 30 in the drive direction. When the sprayer 1 is actuated, particularly when the upper housing portion 16 rotates relative to the inner portion 17, the blockage is preferably overcome, or the positioning device 34 is suited for this purpose. For example, the positioning device 34 can be implemented to deflect away when the shaft 30 rotates, preferably such that (just enough) one tooth 30D can pass through the positioning device 34.

[0315] Particularly preferably, the positioning device 34 is implemented as or used as a ratchet or pawl.

[0316] Preferably, the ratchet and / or pawl and / or positioning device 34 allow the shaft 30 to rotate in only one direction while preventing movement in the opposite direction.

[0317] The positioning device 34 preferably prevents the indicator element 26 from being rotated backward and / or the rider 32 from moving in the downward direction or in a direction away from the locking device 24.

[0318] The positioning device 34 is preferably integrally formed with or formed from the internal portion 17 or the upper housing portion 16.

[0319] The positioning device 34 is preferably implemented as a flexible arm and / or a protruding rib and / or preferably extends in the axial direction, particularly preferably extending at least substantially along the entire axial length of the shaft gear 30C or its tooth 30D.

[0320] The flexible arms and / or protruding ribs preferably form ratchet teeth and / or pawls.

[0321] In different embodiments (not shown), the positioning device 34 may be located at the lower end of the shaft 30, and in particular may cooperate or engage with the drive gear 31 and / or the indicator element 26 or its teeth 26B. For example, in this case, the positioning device 34 may be formed by the housing 27.

[0322] The proposed sprayer 1 can preferably be used with only one container 3. In this way, it is preferable to adjust or coordinate the counting and / or accurately indicate the amount of dosage contained. However, solutions where multiple containers 3 can be used with the sprayer 1 are also possible. In this case, the drive device 23 and / or locking device 24 are preferably adapted to ensure that the sprayer 1 reaches its activity span blockage only after a predetermined number of containers 3 (e.g., three or four containers 3) have been used.

[0323] Preferably, when the sprayer 1 is adapted to be used with multiple containers 3, the indicator device 25 is correspondingly adapted to count or indicate the total number of actuations or uses of the sprayer 1 using multiple containers 3. In particular, one complete rotation / revolution of the indicator element 26 corresponds to the total number of operations possible using the maximum number of containers 3 before the sprayer 1 reaches the activity span barrier.

[0324] Alternatively, the indicator device 25 may be resettable or adapted to count the number of actuations or uses of the current container 3. In particular, one complete rotation / cycle of the indicator element 26 corresponds to the total number of possible operations using a container 3. When the container 3 needs to be replaced, the indicator element 26 has preferably performed one complete rotation / cycle and / or is (again) in its initial state (the state before the current container 3 was first used), so that the indicator element can be used with the new container 3.

[0325] However, as mentioned above, the indicator device 25 is preferably permanently fixed to the sprayer 1 or the internal part 17 and / or cannot be removed from the sprayer 1 or the internal part 17 and / or cannot be replaced or replaced, even if replacement of the container 3 is possible.

[0326] Generally, it should be noted that in the proposed sprayer 1, the container 3 can preferably be inserted into the sprayer 1. Therefore, the container 3 is preferably a separate component. However, the container 3 can theoretically be formed directly from a part of the sprayer 1 or its housing part 18, or can be otherwise integrated into the sprayer 1 or its housing part 18, especially when the sprayer 1 is used only with a container 3.

[0327] The various features, aspects, and / or principles described can be implemented independently of each other or in any combination.

[0328] Unlike stand-alone devices, the proposed sprayer 1 is preferably designed to be portable, and in particular a mobile, manually operated device.

[0329] Preferably, as mentioned above, fluid 2 is a liquid, especially an aqueous pharmaceutical preparation or an ethanol-based pharmaceutical preparation, and particularly has polar characteristics. However, fluid 2 may also contain other pharmaceutical preparations, suspensions, etc., preferably based on water or ethanol.

[0330] According to alternative embodiments, the fluid 2 may also include particles or powder. In this case, some other kind of supply device may be provided instead of the ejector nozzle 12, in particular for supplying the fluid or powder to the mouthpiece 13 via an ejector opening (not shown) or supply channel (not shown). An optional air supply opening 15 is used to preferably supply ambient air in parallel so that an airflow of sufficient volume is generally allowed for breathing or inhalation through the mouthpiece 13.

[0331] If necessary, fluid 2 can also be atomized using propellant gas.

[0332] Preferred ingredients and / or formulations of the preferred pharmaceutical fluid 2 are specifically set forth in WO 2009 / 115200 A1, particularly on pages 25 to 40, or in paragraphs 0040 to 0087 of EP 2 614 848 A1, which are incorporated herein by reference. Preferably, these ingredients and / or formulations may be aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, mixtures, formulations containing ethanol and / or containing no solvent, etc.

[0333] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0334] 1. Sprayer 23. Drive unit

[0335] 2. Fluid 24 Locking Device

[0336] 3 Containers 25 Indicator Device

[0337] 3A Container Base 26 Indicator Element

[0338] 3B Vent 26A Mark

[0339] 4. Storage 26B Gear

[0340] 5. Fluid pump 27. Indicator housing

[0341] 6. Holder 27A Window

[0342] 7. Energy Storage Unit 27B Pointer

[0343] 8. Blocking element 27C Receiving section

[0344] 8A Release button 28 Drive unit cover

[0345] 9 Connecting element 29 Holding part

[0346] 10 Check valve 29A support surface

[0347] 11 Pressure Chamber 29B Flexible Arm

[0348] 12 Nozzle 29C Support Section

[0349] 13. Jaw 29D Connecting Part

[0350] 14 Aerosol 29E Opening

[0351] 15 air supply openings, 30 shafts

[0352] 16. Thinned section of upper shell portion 30A

[0353] 17 Internal Part 30B Threaded Part

[0354] 17A Upper Internal Part 30C Shaft Gear

[0355] 17B Lower internal part 30D tooth

[0356] 17C Recess 31 Drive gear

[0357] 17D retains part 32 sliding weights

[0358] 17E Support lug 32A Actuating part

[0359] 18 Lower housing section

[0360] 19 Holding element 33 Locking spring

[0361] 20 Puncture element 34 Positioning device

[0362] 21. Breathable spring

[0363] 22 Mouth Cover A Axis

Claims

1. A sprayer (1) for atomizing a fluid (2), comprising: Internal part (17) The lower housing portion (18) is detachable from the inner portion (17). An indicator device (25) with a rotatable indicator element (26) for counting or indicating the number of actuations performed or still possible using the sprayer (1). A rotatable shaft (30) rotatably drives the indicator element (26). Its features are, The indicator device (25) is non-removably attached to the internal part (17). The internal portion (17) includes a retaining portion (29), wherein the indicator device (25) is attached to the internal portion (17) by means of the retaining portion (29). The atomizer (1) includes an energy storage unit (7) disposed in the internal portion (17) for providing energy to atomize the fluid (2), and the retaining portion (29) retains, supports, or biases the energy storage unit (7), and The indicator device (25) is attached to the retaining portion (29).

2. The sprayer according to claim 1, characterized in that, The indicator device (25) is attached to the free end of the internal portion (17) by means of the retaining portion (29).

3. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The energy storage device (7) is a drive spring.

4. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Actuation of the sprayer (1) includes loading of the energy storage device (7).

5. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (26) surrounds the retaining portion (29) or the support portion (29C) of the retaining portion (29).

6. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The retaining portion (29) forms a rotating support for the indicator element (26).

7. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sprayer includes a container (3) containing the fluid (2), which performs a stroke movement when the sprayer (1) is actuated.

8. The sprayer according to claim 7, characterized in that, The height of the indicator device (25) or the indicator housing (27) of the indicator device (25) is equal to the length of the stroke movement.

9. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (26) includes or forms teeth (26B).

10. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (26) is ring-shaped.

11. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (26) is implemented as or formed as a toothed wheel.

12. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator element (26) is implemented as or forms a spur gear.

13. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator device (25) includes an indicator housing (27).

14. The sprayer according to claim 13, characterized in that, The indicator housing (27) is fixed to the inner part (17) or the retaining part (29) of the inner part (17).

15. The sprayer according to claim 14, characterized in that, The indicator housing (27) is fixed to the inner part (17) or the retaining part (29) of the inner part (17) by ultrasonic welding.

16. The sprayer according to claim 13, characterized in that, The indicator housing (27) includes a window (27A) that makes the indicator element (26) partially visible.

17. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The shaft (30) is provided with a drive gear (31) that rotatably connects the shaft (30) to the indicator element (26).

18. The sprayer according to claim 17, characterized in that, The sprayer (1) or the internal portion (17) includes or forms a support lug (17E) for the shaft (30), the shaft (30) extending through the support lug (17E) in a portion (30A) provided with the drive gear (31).

19. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sprayer (1) includes a rider (32), and the shaft (30) includes a threaded portion (30B) that linearly drives the rider (32), wherein the rider (32) forms a second indicator device and / or an actuation locking device (24) that locks the sprayer (1) to prevent further actuation when a predetermined number of actuations has been reached or exceeded.

20. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sprayer (1) includes an upper housing portion (16), wherein the sprayer (1) is actuated by rotating the inner portion (17) relative to the upper housing portion (16) to load the energy storage device (7) of the sprayer (1).

21. The sprayer according to claim 20, characterized in that, The sprayer (1) includes one or more drive parts (16A) that, when the sprayer (1) is actuated, cooperate with the shaft (30) or the shaft gear (30C) of the shaft (30) to rotate the shaft (30) by a defined angle.

22. The sprayer according to claim 21, characterized in that, When the sprayer (1) is actuated each time or every second time, the one or more drive parts cooperate with the shaft (30) or the shaft gear (30C) of the shaft (30) to rotate the shaft (30) by a defined angle.

23. The sprayer according to claim 21, characterized in that, The one or more drive portions (16A) are formed by one or more teeth (30D) of the upper housing portion (16).

24. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The shaft (30) is attached to the internal portion (17).

25. The sprayer according to claim 24, characterized in that, The shaft (30) is non-detachably attached to the internal portion (17).

26. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The number of times counted or indicated by the indicator device (25) or the indicator element (26) corresponds to the amount of fluid dose that has been discharged or may still be discharged.

27. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The sprayer (1) includes a positioning device (34) that holds the shaft (30) in a defined rotational position between two actuations and acts as a ratchet by allowing rotational movement of the shaft (30) in only one direction while preventing movement in the opposite direction.

28. The sprayer according to claim 27, characterized in that, The shaft (30) is prevented from rotating backward by means of the positioning device (34).

29. The sprayer according to claim 27, characterized in that, The shaft (30) is held in the defined rotational position by means of the positioning device (34).

30. The sprayer according to claim 29, characterized in that, The shaft (30) is held in the defined rotational position in an engaged manner.

31. The sprayer according to claim 29, characterized in that, The shaft (30) is held in the defined rotational position by a latching mechanism.

32. The sprayer according to claim 27, characterized in that, The positioning device (34) is implemented as or includes a protrusion that engages between two teeth (30D) of the shaft gear (30C) of the shaft (30).

33. The sprayer according to claim 27, characterized in that, The positioning device (34) is implemented as or includes a ratchet that engages between two teeth (30D) of the shaft gear (30C) of the shaft (30).

34. The sprayer according to claim 27, characterized in that, The positioning device (34) is implemented as a flexible arm.

35. The sprayer according to claim 34, characterized in that, The positioning device (34) is implemented as a ratchet to deflect away when the shaft (30) rotates.

36. The sprayer according to claim 27, characterized in that, The positioning device (34) is integrally formed with or formed from the internal part (17).

37. The sprayer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The indicator device (25) is non-removably attached to the internal portion (17) and the shaft (30).

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