Oral dispenser for liquids, in particular for liquids containing nicotine

Abstract

An oral dispenser (10) for outputting a liquid in atomized form, in particular for outputting a liquid containing nicotine, is proposed. The oral dispenser (10) has a liquid reservoir (20) with a variable internal volume for accommodating the liquid before the output, and a spring device (30) by means of which the liquid in the liquid reservoir (20) is permanently under overpressure in a loaded state of the spring device (30). The oral dispenser (10) also has an atomizing nozzle unit (40) with at least one nozzle opening (44) and a discharge channel (92) connecting the liquid reservoir (20) with the atomizing nozzle unit (40). A discharge valve (50) is provided in the discharge channel (92), which can assume an open state and a closed state. A mouthpiece (12) is provided for inhaling the liquid atomized by the atomizing nozzle unit (40). Furthermore, the oral dispenser (10) has a filling opening (60) separate from the atomizing nozzle unit (40), which is connected with the liquid reservoir (20), wherein the spring device (30) can be loaded by supplying the liquid into the liquid reservoir (20) through the filling opening (60).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an oral spender for dispensing liquid in atomized form, wherein the invention particularly relates to such a spender for dispensing liquid containing nicotine. Background Technology

[0002] Such dispensers are particularly intended for quitting cigarette consumption or as an alternative to cigarette consumption. They typically have an elongated shape similar to a cigarette with a mouthpiece, through which the vaporized or atomized liquid is inhaled by the user. In addition to liquids containing nicotine, other liquids containing substances for quitting can also be dispensed using the dispensers according to the invention. Furthermore, the dispensers according to the invention can also be used for the prevention or treatment of acute or chronic respiratory discomfort or respiratory diseases.

[0003] One known type of cigarette dispenser is based on the electrovaporization of a liquid, particularly containing nicotine. Such dispensers include a battery or accumulator that must be replaced or recharged.

[0004] Dispensers are also known in which nicotine-containing liquids are atomized using treibgases without electricity. Document GB 2530980 A illustrates such a dispenser, for example. A disadvantage of these dispensers is that the user also inhales the treibgases while using them. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide an alternative dispenser by which liquids, especially nicotine-containing liquids, can be applied by a user in atomized form.

[0006] To this end, an oral dispenser of the above type is proposed, which has a liquid reservoir with a variable internal volume for containing liquid before dispensing.

[0007] The following dispenser is considered an oral dispenser in the sense of the present invention, wherein the nebulized liquid is applied orally, and the target of the liquid may be, for example, the mouth itself, pharynx, larynx, bronchi, or lungs. Preferably, the oral dispenser according to the invention is constructed as an inhalation dispenser, wherein it is configured such that the user inhales during liquid dispensing, thereby introducing the nebulized liquid into the respiratory tract.

[0008] Depending on the preferred application, the oral dispenser is preferably filled with a nicotine-containing liquid so that it can be used as an alternative to the corresponding cigarette. However, the dispenser according to the invention can also be used for other purposes, such as as a dispenser for asthma or COPD medications, which are typically dispensed using a so-called MDI dispenser.

[0009] The oral dispensing device according to the invention has a spring mechanism by which the liquid in the liquid reservoir is persistently under overpressure when the spring mechanism is under load. This spring mechanism may include a classic spring, such as a helical spring. However, in the sense of the invention, the spring mechanism is also understood to be capable of storing energy in other respects through the compression of a gas or the deformation of an elastically deformable material.

[0010] The liquid reservoir is preferably quite small to achieve a small dispenser size. Preferably, it has a volume of up to 10 ml, and more preferably up to 5 ml or 3 ml. This volume should be understood as the difference between its maximum liquid content and the remaining liquid content, which, by structural design, can no longer be dispensed.

[0011] The pressure of the liquid in the liquid reservoir, generated by a spring mechanism, is used to atomize the liquid. For this purpose, the oral dispenser according to the invention has an atomizing nozzle unit. This atomizing nozzle unit has at least one very small nozzle opening, preferably multiple nozzle openings. The net cross-section of at least one nozzle opening is at most 0.002 mm. 2 Especially preferred is a maximum thickness of 0.001 mm. 2 Or a maximum of 0.0005mm 2 The total net cross-sectional area of ​​all nozzle openings is preferably a maximum of 0.04 mm. 2 The nozzle opening is preferably circular.

[0012] A smaller nozzle size results in fine atomization of the liquid under sufficiently high pressure. Preferably, the spring device is configured such that, when the liquid reservoir is fully filled, the spring device, under full load, applies a force that maintains the liquid in the reservoir at a pressure of at least 4 bar, preferably at least 6 bar, and particularly preferably at least 8 bar. Furthermore, it is preferably configured such that the spring device can always generate a pressure of at least 2 bar, preferably at least 3 bar, in the liquid, even during the gradual emptying of the liquid reservoir and when the spring device is no longer fully loaded. This is achieved by structurally preventing complete unloading of the spring device, thereby enabling the minimum possible volume of the liquid reservoir, for example, if the spring device is always able to generate a pressure of at least 2 bar, preferably at least 3 bar, in the liquid.

[0013] If multiple nozzle openings are provided, these nozzle openings are preferably provided as openings in a common nozzle plate, which can be fixed in particular to a sleeve-shaped carrier made of plastic, which is fixed in the oral dispenser, especially in the internal components of the oral dispenser. The nozzle plate can be designed as a plastic plate, a metal nozzle plate, or a silicone plate, for example. It can be arched so that the nozzle openings are oriented in the diverging direction.

[0014] To prevent particles in the liquid from clogging the nozzle opening, it is preferable to install a liquid filter, especially a membrane filter, in the outlet channel upstream of at least one nozzle opening.

[0015] The liquid flow rate output through the atomizing nozzle unit is preferably relatively low. With a liquid pressure of 4 bar acting at the atomizing nozzle unit and the discharge valve fully open, the liquid flow rate is preferably between 5 μl / s and 30 μl / s, and particularly preferably between 10 μl / s and 20 μl / s. This lower liquid flow rate has proven particularly suitable for simulating cigarette use via an oral dispenser. At such a volumetric flow rate, the subjective perception is similar to that of cigarette smoke.

[0016] The liquid reservoir is connected to the atomizing nozzle unit via an outlet channel. A discharge valve is provided in this outlet channel, which can occupy an open and closed state, specifically by moving a valve baffle with a valve baffle opening between a position that interrupts the outlet channel and a position that releases the outlet channel. Preferably, the discharge valve is constructed such that it also allows for intermediate positions that result in reduced volumetric flow.

[0017] The liquid atomized by the atomizing nozzle unit reaches the mouthpiece, which is then surrounded by the user's mouth as instructed before the user opens the discharge valve.

[0018] Preferably, the atomizing nozzle unit is configured not only to deliver the liquid into the mouthpiece, but also additionally includes at least one air passage through which air flows into the mouthpiece when the user inhales. The user thus inhales both air and the atomized liquid. Preferably, multiple air passages are provided, particularly two, three, or four, distributed peripherally on the inner side of the mouthpiece. Entry into the mouthpiece can be achieved by segments of annular construction of the air passages. This prevents the atomized liquid from settling on the inner side of the mouthpiece by forming an encircling air curtain (or air drape, i.e., Luftvorhangs).

[0019] At least one inlet to the air passage is preferably not located directly on the outside of the mouthpiece, but rather in a wider section of the housing relative to the mouthpiece, thereby reducing the risk of the user covering the inlet with their lips. The inlet may be radially oriented or axially oriented against the direction of suction.

[0020] While it is preferred that the oral dispenser according to the invention be constructed as a refillable dispenser and thus have a filling opening, it is also desirable to construct an oral dispenser of this type as a disposable dispenser, wherein no liquid is provided for filling into the liquid reservoir. In this case, a filling opening is not required. However, it is considered advantageous that the oral dispenser is provided for refilling. For this purpose, the oral dispenser has a filling opening separate from the atomizing nozzle unit, which is connected to the liquid reservoir, wherein the spring mechanism can be loaded by supplying liquid into the liquid reservoir through the filling opening.

[0021] The filling opening is preferably equipped with an inlet valve, which can be opened by external overpressure and / or mechanical pressure from the filling connector. As long as the filling connector is not connected to the filling distributor, the inlet valve is forced into its closed position by internal pressure.

[0022] The oral dispenser according to the invention is preferably similar to (or identical to) a cigarette in its mode of operation. Therefore, it preferably has an elongated shape oriented in the main extension direction. Particularly preferably, its external shape is completely or substantially rotationally symmetrical, wherein, in the case of substantial rotational symmetry, the mouthpiece and / or the actuating element for controlling the discharge valve may constitute a deviation from rotational symmetry. The outer housing of the oral dispenser preferably has a maximum diameter of 16 mm orthogonal to the main extension direction, wherein movable actuating elements for the discharge valve protruding from the outer housing are not considered here. The length in the main extension direction, including the mouthpiece preferably located at the proximal end, is preferably at least 80 mm.

[0023] In the case of the elongated design, the atomizing nozzle unit and / or mouthpiece are positioned at the proximal end of the oral dispenser, supporting the function of a cigarette substitute. The dispensing opening is preferably positioned opposite to the distal end of the oral dispenser. This is structurally the easiest to achieve.

[0024] The liquid reservoir has a variable volume. This means that removing the liquid does not cause negative pressure within the reservoir and does not require equalization by the inflow of air. Instead, the volume enclosed by the walls of the liquid reservoir decreases during liquid output.

[0025] One preferred embodiment is configured such that the liquid reservoir is at least partially limited by a shape-flexible wall. A spring device is configured to apply a force to the shape-flexible wall in a decreasing direction relative to the liquid reservoir. It is conceivable not only that the shape-flexible wall itself constitutes the spring device, but also that the spring device is separately positioned from the wall and applies force to it. Combinations are also feasible. A design with a separate spring device can be formed by a gas pressure chamber separated from the liquid reservoir by a flexible or movable wall. In this gas pressure chamber, for example, in the case of a minimum liquid reservoir volume, a pressure of 3 bar can exist, which can be increased to 4 bar by filling the liquid reservoir.

[0026] Preferably, the flexible wall is elastically deformable. For this purpose, it can be made of an elastomer. Such an elastic wall, in its extended state due to deformation, applies pressure to the liquid in the liquid storage tank and thus forms itself as a spring mechanism or part of a spring mechanism.

[0027] One preferred design configuration is a flexible wall structure that surrounds a liquid reservoir, allowing for resilient expansion of the hose. If the liquid reservoir is filled, the hose extends tangentially therefrom.

[0028] Particularly preferred is the inclusion of a central mandrel surrounded by a flexible hose. In this design, the liquid reservoir is arranged at least segmentally in a ring shape between the outside of the central mandrel and the inside of the hose. Here, the central mandrel restricts the reduction of the liquid reservoir's volume, and in particular, ensures a sufficiently high liquid pressure even as the liquid reservoir gradually empties. Further volume reduction is impossible as long as the hose is directly against the central mandrel on its outer side, even while the hose remains under tangential stress.

[0029] In particular, in order to enable the installation of hoses for such a configuration, the central mandrel is at least segmentally tapered, preferably along the main portion of its length. This allows the hose to be pushed in the direction of the greater periphery of the central mandrel, wherein tangential stress is induced or increased during the pushing process.

[0030] The central spindle may also have a central liquid channel, which extends particularly in the main extension direction of the oral dispenser. This liquid channel may form part of the discharge channel connecting the liquid reservoir to the nebulizer valve unit. Alternatively or additionally, the liquid channel may form part of the filling channel or the filling channel connecting the filling opening to the liquid reservoir. The central spindle may have a radial through-hole to connect the discharge channel and / or the filling channel to an annular region of the liquid reservoir outside the central spindle.

[0031] A particularly advantageous design of the central mandrel is that it is constructed in two parts, specifically comprising an inner mandrel member and an outer mandrel member. The two mandrel members, preferably the inner and outer ones, are configured to increase their common outer perimeter within the assembled frame through axial displacement relative to each other. This configuration allows for advantageous assembly, wherein one, particularly the outer, mandrel member is first inserted into the hose, and then the other, particularly the inner, mandrel member is pushed into or into the previously inserted mandrel member, thereby enlarging the common perimeter and tangentially widening the hose.

[0032] In a design of a dispenser with an inlet valve at the filling opening, it can be advantageously configured that at least one valve face of the inlet valve is formed by a component that also forms a one-piece flexible hose for the liquid storage.

[0033] An alternative variant of the oral dispenser according to the invention has a movable wall, rather than a flexible wall, that at least segmentally restricts the liquid reservoir. This movable wall is preferably inserted into the cylindrical body in a piston-like manner and is sealed relative to the body in the edge region. Here, a spring device is configured to apply a force to the movable wall in a direction pointing towards the narrowing of the liquid reservoir. The movable wall is movable in the main extension direction and is particularly preferably loaded by the spring device in the direction proximal to the oral dispenser. The spring device is preferably formed of a gas pressure chamber or a helical spring.

[0034] The oral dispenser can have a guide mandrel, similar to the central mandrel already mentioned. Here, the liquid reservoir is arranged at least segmentally and annularly between the outer side of the guide mandrel and the inner side of the outer wall. The guide mandrel ensures repeatable, tilt-free displacement of the movable wall. The guide mandrel also allows for a central liquid channel within the guide mandrel, which extends through the liquid reservoir. This central liquid channel can constitute an outlet channel and / or a filling channel. Particularly preferably, the liquid channel in the guide mandrel extends as a filling channel from the distal end to the proximal end of the liquid reservoir, and there connects to the liquid reservoir by means of a radial through-hole.

[0035] The oral dispenser is designed so that the user surrounds the mouthpiece with their lips and opens the discharge valve during inhalation, allowing the liquid to be atomized by the atomizing nozzle unit. Different structural designs are preferred for the discharge valve.

[0036] In a particularly simple design, the discharge valve is constructed as a manually operable valve, i.e., operated by the user's hand. A particularly suitable design is one where an operating button is located on the outside of the oral dispenser, primarily on the side surface of the dispenser, by means of which the discharge valve can be in a closed or open state. Manual pressure on the operating button, in particular, against the force of the return spring, causes the discharge valve to open. The operating button preferably has linear movement.

[0037] It is also possible to design a manually operable discharge valve with a rotatable actuating element that allows the discharge valve to be in a closed or open state, wherein the actuating element is preferably rotatable about a rotation axis parallel to the main extension direction. For example, the front and rear sections of an elongated distributor can rotate relative to each other about this rotation axis to open the discharge valve, which is configured as a rotary valve.

[0038] An alternative design for the discharge valve is that it is configured as a lip-operated discharge valve. The user can open the discharge valve by pressing its lip. For this purpose, the discharge valve has an actuating surface at or in the area of ​​the lip that causes the discharge valve to change from a closed to an open state when force is applied by the user's lip.

[0039] This can be achieved, for example, by having a pivotable lever on the discharge valve, which can be pivoted by force applied to the operating surface, and a valve baffle provided at the lever, which can be changed from a closed position to an open position by the pivoting movement of the lever.

[0040] Another alternative design for the discharge valve is a discharge valve configured for breath control. For this purpose, the discharge valve has a negative pressure chamber that connects to the mouthpiece. When the user inhales through the mouthpiece, this creates a negative pressure in this chamber. The negative pressure chamber has a movable chamber wall that is deformable or can be displaced as a whole, preferably counteracting the force of a return spring. The displacement of the chamber wall acts on valve elements, such as a valve baffle in the discharge passage, causing the negative pressure in the negative pressure chamber to change the discharge valve from a closed state to an open state.

[0041] The discharge valve is preferably constructed such that the valve's switching types (i.e., manual switch, lip-based switch, and suction-based switch via the nozzle) also allow for partial opening of the valve. Preferably, only slight manual operation, only slight lip compression, and only a small amount of suction at the nozzle cause a corresponding reduction in the output of the atomized liquid. Therefore, the user can control the flow rate of the atomized liquid. In particular, this can be achieved by a valve baffle that moves further out of the discharge passage depending on the degree of operation, and thus acts as a limiting throttling element to a variable extent.

[0042] The oral dispenser is preferably configured such that it has an outer housing that also forms the mouthpiece, and preferably at least one internal member is arranged within the outer housing. In a preferred design, the outer housing may be formed of two half-shells, with at least one internal member disposed between the two half-shells. Preferably, the internal member has a valve recess (in which a valve baffle of the discharge valve is movably supported), and / or the internal member segmentally forms a discharge channel, and / or the internal member forms a guide spindle or central spindle.

[0043] According to a second aspect of the invention, the invention further relates to an oral dispenser for dispensing a nicotine-containing liquid, wherein the oral dispenser may include some or all of the features described above, alone or in combination or in part.

[0044] The oral dispenser according to a second aspect of the invention has a liquid reservoir for containing a nicotine-containing liquid before dispensing. The liquid reservoir is preferably already filled with the corresponding liquid when delivered.

[0045] The liquid storage device is constructed as a pressure storage device. This means that the liquid in the liquid storage device is stored under pressure. For example, pressure loading can be achieved by propelling gas or by a spring device as described above.

[0046] The oral dispenser has an atomizing nozzle unit. This atomizing nozzle unit can be designed in various ways. In its simplest form, the atomizing nozzle unit has a vortex chamber by means of which atomization is achieved. However, it can also be provided with one or more very fine nozzle openings in the manner described above. Each nozzle opening preferably has a maximum size of 0.002 mm. 2 The net cross-section of the nozzle is preferably 0.04 mm. 2 The sum of the net cross-sections.

[0047] The oral dispenser has a discharge channel that connects a liquid reservoir to an atomizing nozzle unit. A discharge valve is provided in this discharge channel, which can be in an open or closed state. When the discharge valve is open, liquid flows from the pressure reservoir toward the nozzle unit and is then delivered in an atomized form through the dispenser's nozzle. For example, the discharge valve can be provided as a movable valve baffle with an opening. Flow can be stopped by moving the valve baffle and the opening upstream and downstream relative to the discharge channel. If the opening is moved by shifting the valve baffle so that it aligns with the discharge channel, liquid can flow through.

[0048] According to a second aspect of the invention, the discharge valve is characterized as a mechanically lip-operated discharge valve. For this purpose, an operating surface is provided at or in the area of ​​the mouthpiece, which mechanically causes the discharge valve to change from a closed state to an open state when force is applied by the user's lips.

[0049] This method of manipulation is very intuitive and therefore particularly well-suited to nicotine dispensers, which are used quite frequently, and in which it is therefore desirable that output should not be accompanied by difficult operation, but rather should be as intuitively feasible as possible. Lip manipulation has proven particularly advantageous in allowing the user to coordinate inhalation or exhalation in time with the output of the liquid in atomized form induced by the lips. Advantageously, oral dispensers have an air inlet channel, particularly at the mouthpiece, through which the user can inhale air before initiating output, so that output can then begin during that inhalation by force applied by the lips.

[0050] The operating surface is preferably less than 20 mm, and more particularly preferably less than 15 mm, from the distal end of the mouthpiece. When the user places the mouthpiece in their mouth and surrounds it with their lips, one of their lips, preferably the upper lip, rests against the operating surface. The operating surface can be pressed down, particularly radially (i.e., in the direction of flow through the mouthpiece). Thus, the user can open the valve by pressing their lips together. Returning to the initial closed state is preferably achieved by spring force. Particularly preferably, the valve is configured to also allow partial opening. This allows the user to adjust the flow rate by applying force with their lips, and thereby determine the amount of nicotine, similar to the different intensities of smoking a cigarette.

[0051] As described above, the liquid reservoir can be constructed with a variable internal volume. The internal volume decreases as liquid is discharged. If the dispenser is constructed as a disposable dispenser, it is cleared after the liquid reservoir is emptied. However, the dispenser can also be constructed as a filling dispenser as described above. In this case, it is also preferable that the dispenser has a filling opening separate from the atomizing nozzle unit, which is connected to the liquid reservoir, wherein the spring mechanism is loaded by supplying liquid into the liquid reservoir through the filling opening.

[0052] This invention relates not only to the oral dispenser itself, but also to an inhalation system having such an oral dispenser, the inhalation system additionally including a dispensing dispenser storing a liquid under overpressure or a pressure-loadable liquid, and the dispensing dispenser being configured to connect with the dispensing opening of the oral dispenser. Preferably, the dispensing dispenser is filled with a propellant-free liquid under pressure, which can be withdrawn through an on / off delivery valve. This valve preferably has a dispensing connector adapted to and capable of being pushed into the dispensing opening of the oral dispenser. Pushing it in opens the delivery valve of the dispensing dispenser and the inlet valve of the oral dispenser, allowing liquid to flow into the liquid reservoir of the oral dispenser, where the spring mechanism can be reloaded. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Further advantages and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, which are explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 1 shows an oral dispenser according to the proposed first structural design in a perspective view.

[0055] Figures 1A to 1C show the oral dispenser of Figure 1 from other perspectives.

[0056] Figures 2A and 2B show the oral dispenser of Figure 1 in two cross-sectional views.

[0057] Figure 2C The enlarged view shows the atomizing nozzle unit of the oral dispenser.

[0058] Figure 3A and Figure 3B This explains the loading of the oral dispenser.

[0059] Figure 3C and Figure 3D The instructions explain how to use the oral dispenser.

[0060] Figure 4 An oral dispenser according to the proposed second structural design is shown in a perspective view.

[0061] Figures 5A and 5B show two sectional views. Figure 4 Oral dispensing device.

[0062] Figures 6 and 7 illustrate two alternative designs for implementing the discharge valve, which can be used according to Figures 1 and 7. Figure 4 Two design schemes for oral dispensing devices.

[0063] Figures 8A to 8C The figures shown in Figure 1 to 1990 are as follows: Figure 3D An alternative form of the central spindle for oral dispensing devices. Detailed Implementation

[0064] Figure 1 to Figure 3D A first embodiment of the oral dispensing device according to the invention is shown.

[0065] The oral dispenser 10 can be seen in a perspective overall view in Figure 1. The oral dispenser 10 has an elongated housing oriented in the main extension direction 2, and a mouthpiece 12 is provided at the proximal end 10A of the housing. On its side surface, in this embodiment, an operating button 52 is provided, by means of which a separate discharge valve 50, which will be explained later, can be opened.

[0066] Referring also to Figures 1A to 1C, an atomizing nozzle unit 40 is located near the proximal end of the mouthpiece 10, which has a nozzle plate 42 with multiple nozzle openings 44. An annular channel 82 is also provided at the outer edge of the approximately cylindrical mouthpiece 12, through which air can be drawn into the mouthpiece 12. For this purpose, the air is drawn in through the inlet 84.

[0067] A dispensing opening 60 is provided at the distal end 10B of the oral dispenser 10, which is opposite to the dispensing opening.

[0068] As can be seen in Figure 1A, the outer housing 70 of the oral dispenser 10 has two half-shells 70A and 70B. Several components, also described herein, are disposed within these half-shells for liquid storage and targeted nebulization.

[0069] Figures 2A and 2B show the oral dispenser 10 in corresponding cross-sectional views, wherein the cutting planes are offset from each other by 90°.

[0070] As shown in the figures, a total of three internal components 72, 73, and 74 are disposed within the outer casing 70. Internal component 72 forms a central spindle 76 at its right end in Figure 2A, which extends almost to the distal end 10B of the oral dispensing device 10. A flexible tube-like component 32, made of an elastomer, is fitted onto this central spindle 76. A liquid reservoir 20 is formed in the intermediate space between the outer side of the central spindle 76 and the inner side of the flexible tube 32. In Figures 2A and 2B, this liquid reservoir is unfilled. The liquid reservoir is connected to liquid channels 90 and 92 via radial recesses 77, which extend along the main extension direction 2 through the central spindle 76.

[0071] The left portion 92 of the liquid passage in Figures 2A and 2B forms part of the discharge passage 92. Starting from the liquid reservoir 20, this discharge passage 92 leads to the discharge valve 50. (See Figures 1 to...) Figure 3DIn the design, the discharge valve 50, in addition to the operating button 52, also has a valve baffle 54 fixed thereon, which has a baffle opening 54A that can move within the valve clearance portion 72A. The operating button 52 is pressed to the position shown in Figure 2A by a return spring. If the operating button is pressed down against the force of the return spring, the baffle opening 54A can be brought to a position aligned with the discharge channel 92, allowing liquid to pass through the valve baffle 54 to the right side. On the right side and therefore downstream of the discharge valve 50, a liquid filter 46 configured as a membrane filter is first provided, which is inserted into the internal member 73 and preferably encapsulated by injection molding of the internal member. The liquid flowing through the discharge valve 50 is thus protected from any contaminants that might otherwise interfere with the function of the atomizing nozzle unit 40.

[0072] Downstream of the membrane filter 46 is connected the previously mentioned atomizing nozzle unit 40. This atomizing nozzle unit, as a main component, has a thin nozzle plate, such as a nozzle plate made of silicon, which is penetrated by a plurality of nozzle openings 44. The nozzle plate 42 is fixed in a sleeve-shaped plastic carrier 43, which itself is inserted into a corresponding recess in the internal member 74.

[0073] Upstream of the liquid reservoir 20, a channel provided in the central spindle 76 is a dispensing channel 90, which extends to the dispensing opening 60. However, the liquid reservoir 20 is generally isolated from the external environment because an inlet valve 62, acting as an overpressure valve, is provided, which is pressed to its closed position in the event of overpressure in the oral dispenser 10. For this purpose, the valve body of the inlet valve 62 is pressed against an elastically deformable annular region formed by a component of the hose 32. This is further explained below. Figure 3B To explain.

[0074] As can be seen from Figures 2B and 1C, and as already mentioned in the context, the oral dispenser 10 has two air channels 80 that lead to the aforementioned annular channel 82, which itself leads to the mouthpiece 12.

[0075] exist Figure 2C The enlarged view shows the atomizing nozzle unit 40. A sleeve member 41 can be seen surrounding the through-hole, in which the nozzle plate 42 has a nozzle opening 44. The nozzle opening has a corresponding 100 μm... 2 The net cross-section. In this embodiment, a total of 25 such nozzle openings 44 are provided.

[0076] Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe process of filling the oral dispenser 10 is described. In order to fill the oral dispenser 10, a dispensing dispenser 110 is provided, which together with the oral dispenser 10 forms the inhalation system 100.

[0077] The dispensing dispenser 110 has a pressure reservoir and a discharge valve 114 located at its upper end, which can be opened by means of a valve connector. The valve connector forms a dispensing connector 112 for insertion into the dispensing opening 60 of the oral dispensing dispenser 10. If the dispensing connector 112 is connected to the dispensing opening 60, then... Figure 3B Pressing down the oral dispenser 10 as shown opens the discharge valve 114 of the dispensing dispenser 110 and also opens the inlet valve 62 of the oral dispenser 10 by means of the force applied by the dispensing pipe 112.

[0078] Because of the 8 bar pressure in the pressure reservoir of the dispensing dispenser 110, the liquid can travel through the dispensing tube 112 to the dispensing channel 90, and all the way to the liquid reservoir 20 of the oral dispenser. Liquid path 4 illustrates this.

[0079] There, under the pressure of the dispensing dispenser 110, the tubing 32 expands and elastically deforms, so that after the oral dispensing dispenser 10 separates from the dispensing dispenser 110 and thus closes the inlet valve 62, a pressure of about 4 bar is applied to the liquid in the liquid reservoir 20.

[0080] Figure 3C The oral dispensing device 10, which is loaded at this time, is shown with an expanded tubing 32.

[0081] If at this time Figure 3D As shown, by pressing the operating button 52 to open the discharge valve 50, liquid flows from the liquid reservoir 20 along the liquid path 6 through the baffle opening 54A of the valve baffle 54 to the atomizing nozzle unit 40, where it is atomized. Figure 3D The atomization is indicated by the dashed arrow. At the same time, the user inhales through the mouthpiece 12, thereby creating an external air sleeve in the mouthpiece 12 through the air channel 80, which is inhaled by the user along with the atomized liquid.

[0082] Figure 4Figures 5A and 5B illustrate an alternative configuration of the oral dispenser 10. The main difference between this design and the configuration shown in the preceding figures is that in this design, the liquid reservoir 20 is confined by a movable wall in the form of a piston 36. This piston is guided by a central guide spindle 78 and is continuously force-loaded in the direction of the mouthpiece 12 by a spring device 30 configured as a helical spring. If the liquid reservoir 20 is filled, the liquid is pressurized by the spring device 30 to a sufficient pressure to atomize at the atomizing nozzle unit 40 as previously described. As liquid is gradually discharged from the liquid reservoir 20, the piston 36 further displaces in the direction of the mouthpiece.

[0083] If a dispensing dispenser 110 is connected to this design, the liquid reservoir 20 is also refilled there, while the piston 36 is further deflected against the force of the spring device 30. For this purpose, liquid flows from the filling opening 60 into the filling channel 90 through the inlet valve 62, which is configured as an overpressure valve, and into the liquid reservoir 20 through the radial opening 79 in the guide spindle 78.

[0084] Figures 6 and 7 show alternative designs for the discharge valve, which can be implemented in the same manner in the two aforementioned designs for the liquid storage device.

[0085] In the design according to Figure 6, a lip-operated discharge valve 50 is provided. For this purpose, an operating lever 56, pivotable about a pivot axis 57, is provided, with an operating surface 55 at its proximal end, which is pressed down by the user's lip as prescribed. A valve baffle 54, with its baffle opening 54A, is provided at a support leg opposite to the operating lever 56. If the operating surface 55 is pressed down, the baffle opening 54A is raised, aligning the baffle opening with the adjacent portion of the discharge channel 92, and thus allowing liquid to flow from the liquid reservoir 20 to the atomizing nozzle unit 40.

[0086] An air inlet passage 13 is provided at the mouthpiece 12. This allows the user to surround the mouthpiece with their lips along with the operating surface 55, and then inhale air through the air inlet passage 13 before operating the operating surface 55. During this time, the nicotine-containing liquid can be dispensed by pressing the lips together and thus pressing down the operating surface 55. By applying a suitable amount of force, the user can also align the baffle opening 54A only partially with the discharge channel 92, thereby causing only a small amount of liquid to be dispensed. Similar to cigarettes, the user can therefore control the delivery in a dosage manner according to their wishes.

[0087] The design shown in Figure 7 is a breathing control design with an exhaust valve 50. If suction is applied at the mouthpiece 12, this not only causes air to be drawn in through the already described air passage 80, but also causes air to be drawn out from the negative pressure chamber 58 of the exhaust valve 50 through an additional air passage 86, and the flexible chamber wall 59 of the negative pressure chamber 58 thus presses down on the valve baffle 54. This, in turn, connects the baffle opening 54A in the valve baffle 54 with the adjacent portion of the exhaust passage 92, and liquid flows to the atomizing nozzle unit 40.

[0088] In the example of Figure 7, the negative pressure chamber is supplied with the environment via opening 53. The flow resistance through the opening is greater than the flow resistance through channel 86. This results in negative pressure in the negative pressure chamber 58. An additional air channel corresponding to the aforementioned air channel 80 is not mandatory in this design, as air can reach the nozzle through both opening 53 and air channel 86.

[0089] In alternative design schemes, opening 53 can be omitted, and the air passage 80 can be provided instead. With the appropriate throttling effect of the designed opening, negative pressure can also be achieved in the negative pressure chamber 59.

[0090] Figures 8A to 8C A specific design and related assembly of the central spindle 76 are shown. The central spindle 76 is divided into two spindle members 76A and 76B. The inner spindle member 76A has a slightly tapered shape. The outer spindle member 76B has multiple ribs arranged circumferentially and interconnected by thin connecting tabs. The ribs themselves are tapered on the inner side according to the taper of the inner spindle member 76A.

[0091] In order to assemble the two-piece central spindle into the hose 32, according to Figure 8B The setup is as follows: first, the external mandrel component 76B is connected to the hose 32. This is not a problem because... Figure 8A In its initial state, the outer diameter of the external mandrel component 76B is smaller than the inner diameter of the hose 32.

[0092] The composite structure consisting of the hose 32 and the outer mandrel member 76B is then pushed onto the tapered inner mandrel member 76A. This widens the outer mandrel member 76B and the hose 32 accordingly, thereby subjecting the hose to the desired prestress.

[0093] With Figure 1 to Figure 3D Compared to the design of the central spindle 76, the structure of this liquid storage device is an improved version in terms of assembly.

Claims

1. An oral dispenser (10) for dispensing liquid in atomized form, having the following features: a. The oral dispenser (10) has a liquid reservoir (20) with a variable internal volume for holding liquid before dispensing, and b. The oral dispensing device (10) has a spring device (30) by means of which, under the loaded state of the spring device (30), the liquid in the liquid reservoir (20) is continuously under overpressure, and c. The oral dispensing device (10) has an atomizing nozzle unit (40) having a plurality of nozzle openings (44), each nozzle opening having a maximum diameter of 0.002 mm. 2 The net cross-section, wherein the nozzle opening (44) is configured as an opening in a common nozzle plate (42), and d. The oral dispenser (10) has a discharge channel (92) that connects the liquid reservoir (20) to the atomizing nozzle unit (40), and e. A discharge valve (50) is provided in the discharge channel (92), the discharge valve being capable of occupying an open state and a closed state, and f. The oral dispenser (10) has a mouthpiece (12) for inhaling liquid atomized by the atomizing nozzle unit (40), and g. The oral dispenser (10) has a dispensing opening (60) separate from the atomizing nozzle unit (40), the dispensing opening being connected to the liquid reservoir (20), wherein, By supplying liquid into the liquid reservoir (20) through the filling opening (60), the spring device (30) can be loaded.

2. The oral dispenser (10) according to claim 1, wherein the liquid contains nicotine.

3. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the following features: a. The spring device (30) is constructed such that it applies a force when the liquid reservoir (20) is fully filled under full load, the force causing the liquid in the liquid reservoir (20) to be under a pressure of at least 4 bar.

4. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The force causes the liquid in the liquid storage container (20) to be under a pressure of at least 6 bar.

5. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The force causes the liquid in the liquid storage container (20) to be under a pressure of at least 8 bar.

6. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 3, further comprising the following additional features: b. The atomizing nozzle unit (40) is configured such that, under a liquid pressure of 4 bar acting on the inside, the atomizing nozzle unit (40) outputs a liquid flow rate between 5 µl / second and 30 µl / second.

7. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The liquid flow rate is output between 10 µl / second and 20 µl / second through the atomizing nozzle unit (40).

8. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the following features: a. The oral dispenser (10) has an elongated shape oriented in the main extension direction (2).

9. The oral dispenser (10) according to claim 8, having at least one of the following additional features: b. The outer housing (70) of the oral dispenser (10) has a maximum diameter of 16 mm orthogonal to the main extension direction (2) and / or a minimum length of at least 80 mm in the main extension direction (2), and / or c. The atomizing nozzle unit (40) and / or the mouthpiece (12) are disposed at the proximal end (10A) of the oral dispenser (10), and / or d. The dispensing opening (60) is located at the distal end (10B) of the oral dispenser (10).

10. The oral dispenser (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the following features: a. The liquid storage device (20) is at least segmentally limited by walls of flexible shape, and b. The spring device (30) is configured to apply a force to the flexible wall of the liquid reservoir (20) in a decreasing direction.

11. The oral dispenser (10) according to claim 10, having one of the following additional features: c. The spring device (30) includes a gas pressure chamber (34) acting on the wall of the flexible shape, and / or d. The flexible wall is capable of elastic deformation, so that it applies pressure to the liquid in the liquid storage (20) in a stretched state due to deformation, and thereby at least partially forms the spring device (30).

12. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 10, further comprising the following features: a. The flexible wall structure is an elastically expandable hose (32) surrounding the liquid storage unit (20).

13. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 12, further comprising the following features: a. The oral dispenser (10) has a central spindle (76) surrounded by a flexible tubing (32), wherein, The liquid reservoir (20) is arranged at least in a segmental annular manner between the outside of the central spindle (76) and the inside of the hose (32).

14. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 13, having one of the following additional functions: b. The central spindle (76) is tapered, and / or c. The central spindle (76) is provided with a central liquid channel, or d. The central spindle (76) is constructed in two parts, configured to increase their common outer periphery in the assembled frame by axial displacement relative to each other.

15. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The central liquid channel forms a filling channel (90) in at least a section, which connects the filling opening (60) to the liquid storage device (20).

16. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The central spindle (76) is constructed with an inner spindle component (76A) and an outer spindle component (76B).

17. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 8, further comprising the following features: a. The liquid storage device (20) is at least partially limited by a movable wall (36), and b. The spring device (30) is configured to apply a force to the movable wall (36) in a decreasing direction pointing towards the liquid reservoir (20).

18. The oral dispenser (10) according to claim 17, having at least one of the following additional features: c. The movable wall (36) is capable of moving in the direction of the main extension direction (2), and / or d. The oral dispenser (10) has a guide shaft (78), wherein, The liquid reservoir (20) is arranged at least in a circumferential manner between the outer side of the guide mandrel (78) and the inner side of the outer wall.

19. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The guide mandrel (78) is provided with a central fluid channel.

20. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 18, characterized in that, The spring device (30) applies a force to the movable wall (36) in the direction proximal to the oral dispenser (10).

21. The oral dispenser (10) according to claim 1 or 2, having at least one of the following additional features: a. The total net cross-section of the nozzle opening (44) of the nozzle plate (42) is a maximum of 0.04 mm. 2 And / or, b. The nozzle plate (42) is fixed in a sleeve-shaped carrier made of plastic, and / or c. The nozzle plate (42) is constructed of a plastic plate, or d. The nozzle plate (42) is constructed as a metal nozzle plate (42), or e. The nozzle plate (42) is constructed as a nozzle plate (42) made of silicon, and / or f. The nozzle plate (42) is an arched nozzle plate (42) in the output direction.

22. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The carrier is inserted into the internal component (74) of the oral dispenser (10).

23. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 21, characterized in that, The nozzle plate (42) has at least one nozzle opening (44) that expands in the output direction.

24. The oral dispensing device according to claim 8, further comprising the following features: a. The discharge valve (50) is configured as a manually operable discharge valve (50).

25. The oral dispensing device according to claim 24, comprising one of the following additional features: b. The manually operable discharge valve (50) has an operating button (52) on the outside of the oral dispenser (10), by means of which the discharge valve (50) can be brought to a closed state and an open state, or c. The manually operable discharge valve has a rotatable actuating element by means of which the discharge valve can be brought to a closed state and an open state.

26. The oral dispensing device according to claim 25, characterized in that, The control button (52) is located on the side surface of the oral dispenser (10) and / or is capable of linear movement and / or is provided with a return spring.

27. The oral dispensing device according to claim 25, characterized in that, The actuating element is capable of rotating about a rotation axis parallel to the main extension direction.

28. The oral dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the following features: a. The discharge valve (50) is configured as a lip-operable discharge valve (50) and has an operating surface (55) at or in the area of ​​the mouthpiece (12), the operating surface causing the discharge valve (50) to change from a closed state to an open state when force is applied by the user's lips.

29. The oral dispensing device according to claim 28, further comprising the following additional features: b. The discharge valve (50) has a pivotable lever (56) that can be pivoted by force applied by the operating surface (55), and a valve baffle (54) is provided at the lever that can be changed from a closed position to an open position by the pivoting movement of the lever (56).

30. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the following features: a. The discharge valve (50) is configured as a breathing-controlled discharge valve (50) and has a negative pressure chamber (58) connected to the mouthpiece (12), the negative pressure chamber having a movable chamber wall (59), the chamber wall changing the discharge valve (50) from a closed state to an open state by displacement caused by negative pressure.

31. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 18, having at least one of the following additional features: a. The filling opening (60) is provided with an inlet valve (62), which can be opened by external overpressure and / or by mechanical pressure from the filling pipe (112), and the inlet valve is pressed to its closed position by internal pressure, and / or b. The oral dispenser (10) has an outer housing (70), and at least one internal component is disposed within the outer housing, and / or c. The oral dispenser (10) has a central spindle (76) surrounded by a flexible tubing (32), the oral dispenser (10) has internal components having a valve vacancy (72A), a valve baffle (54) of the discharge valve (50) is movably supported in the valve vacancy, and / or the internal components segmentally form the discharge channel (92), and / or the internal components form the guide spindle (78) or the central spindle (76), and / or d. The liquid storage device (20) has a maximum volume of 10 ml, and / or e. A liquid filter (46) is provided upstream of the atomizing nozzle unit (40) in the discharge channel (92).

32. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 31, characterized in that, At least one valve face of the inlet valve (62) is formed by a component that is also a one-piece flexible hose forming the liquid reservoir (20).

33. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 31, characterized in that, The outer shell is formed by two half-shells (70A, 70B).

34. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 31, characterized in that, The liquid storage device (20) has a maximum volume of 5 ml.

35. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 31, characterized in that, The liquid storage device (20) has a maximum volume of 3 ml.

36. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 31, characterized in that, A membrane filter is provided upstream of the atomizing nozzle unit (40) in the discharge channel (92).

37. The oral dispensing device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising the following features: a. It is provided with at least one air passage (80) through which air can flow into the mouthpiece (12) so as to be inhaled together with the atomized liquid.

38. The oral dispensing device according to claim 37, wherein it has one of the following additional features: b. Multiple air passages (80) are provided, and / or c. At least one air passage (80) leads into an annular passage (82) surrounding the atomizing nozzle unit (40), and / or d. The air passage (80) has an inlet on the outside of the oral dispenser (10), the inlet being radially oriented or axially oriented against the direction of inhalation.

39. An inhalation system (100) having an oral dispenser (10) and an infusion dispenser (110), characterized in that: a. The inhalation system (100) has an oral dispenser (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, and b. The inhalation system (100) has a dispensing dispenser (110) storing a liquid under overpressure or a pressure-loadable liquid, and the dispensing dispenser is configured to connect to the dispensing opening (60) of the oral dispensing device (10).

40. An oral dispenser (10) for dispensing a nicotine-containing liquid in atomized form, having the following features: a. The oral dispenser (10) has a liquid reservoir (20) for containing a nicotine-containing liquid before dispensing, and b. The liquid storage device (20) is constructed as a pressure storage device, in which the liquid is stored under overpressure. c. The oral dispensing device (10) has an atomizing nozzle unit (40) having a plurality of nozzle openings (44), each nozzle opening having a maximum diameter of 0.002 mm. 2 The net cross-section, wherein the nozzle opening (44) is configured as an opening in a common nozzle plate (42), and d. The oral dispenser (10) has a discharge channel (92) that connects the liquid reservoir (20) to the atomizing nozzle unit (40), and e. A discharge valve (50) is provided in the discharge channel (92), the discharge valve being capable of occupying an open state and a closed state, and f. The oral dispenser (10) has a mouthpiece (12) for inhaling liquid atomized by the atomizing nozzle unit (40), and g. The discharge valve (50) is configured as a mechanically lip-operated discharge valve (50) and has an operating surface (55) at or in the area of ​​the mouthpiece (12), the operating surface causing the discharge valve (50) to change from a closed state to an open state when force is applied by the user's lips.

41. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 40, further comprising the following features: a. The discharge valve (50) has a pivotable lever (56) that can be pivoted by force applied by the operating surface (55), and a valve baffle (54) is provided at the lever that can be changed from a closed position to an open position by the pivoting movement of the lever (56).

42. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 40 or 41, further comprising the following features: a. The oral dispenser (10) has an air inlet channel (13) through which ambient air can be drawn in.

43. The oral dispenser (10) according to claim 42, having one of the following additional features: b. The air inlet channel (13) is located downstream of the atomizing nozzle unit (40), and / or c. The air inlet channel (13) is configured as a through-hole at the nozzle (12).

44. The oral dispensing device according to claim 40 or 41, having at least one of the following additional features: a. The liquid storage device (20) has a variable internal volume, and / or b. The oral dispensing device (10) has a spring device (30) by means of which, under the loaded state of the spring device (30), the liquid in the liquid reservoir (20) is persistently under overpressure, and / or c. The oral dispenser (10) has a dispensing opening (60) separate from the atomizing nozzle unit (40), the dispensing opening being connected to the liquid reservoir (20), wherein, By supplying liquid into the liquid reservoir (20) through the filling opening (60), the spring device (30) can be loaded.

45. The oral dispensing device (10) according to claim 44, characterized in that, The total net cross-section of the plurality of nozzle openings (44) is a maximum of 0.04 mm. 2 .

Images