Powder delivery system

By introducing ionized air and a vacuum source into the powder distribution system, the problem of uneven distribution caused by electrostatic interference during the processing of high-viscosity powders was solved, achieving efficient and accurate powder distribution.

CN122641573APending Publication Date: 2026-08-25MANNKIND CORP
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202580011094.9
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-01-24
Filing Date
2025-01-24
Publication Date
2026-08-25

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing technologies struggle to achieve accurate and efficient powder distribution when processing highly viscous powders, especially since electrostatic interference during the processing of TECHNOSPHERE® microparticles can lead to uneven distribution.

Method used

The method of reducing electrostatic radiation by ionizing air is adopted. Ionized air is introduced into the powder through an ionization device in the hopper, and combined with a vacuum source and a stirring rod, the powder maintains its fluidity and accuracy during the distribution process.

Benefits of technology

It achieves accurate powder distribution under high production capacity, reduces the variability of powder content, and improves the stability and efficiency of the distribution system.

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Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a method for accurately and consistently dispensing highly electrostatic dry powder. The method for dispensing highly electrostatic dry powder includes introducing dry powder into a hopper, introducing ionized air into the hopper, the ionized air reducing electrostatic radiation emanating from the dry powder in the hopper, and dispensing the dry powder from the hopper into a fill chamber. Also disclosed is a powder dispensing system for dispensing dry powder with high throughput, the dry powder being highly susceptible to electrostatics during dispensing.
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Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 624,764, entitled “Powder Transport System,” filed January 24, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a powder dispensing system for supplying and distributing powders. The powder dispensing device can dispense a controlled amount of powder into a cartridge or other reservoir for pharmaceutical preparation purposes. Specifically, the powder dispensing device can dispense a controlled amount of powder into a cartridge or other reservoir for pharmaceutical preparation purposes, which generates high static electricity during processing. The powders described herein may contain pharmaceuticals, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Background Technology

[0003] Powders are used in a variety of applications, including medical applications. In one example, dry powder is inhaled as a delivery mechanism using an inhaler to deliver certain types of medications to a patient. A specific example of powder uses diketopiperazine microparticles, called TECHNOSPHERE® microparticles. TECHNOSPHERE® microparticles have a plate-like surface structure and can be loaded with medication using various methods. Commercial uses of these microparticles, for example, exist in two FDA-approved products for pulmonary drug delivery in the United States: one for delivering insulin Afreezza® (human insulin), and the other for treprostene (Tyvaso DP1®), as a dry powder for inhalation. Inhalers with replaceable cartridges or capsules containing drug powder are used for drug delivery.

[0004] In the commercialization of drug delivery for inhalation, it is essential to produce large quantities of drug-containing cartridges in an efficient and economical manner. Accurate doses of powder must be delivered to each cartridge or capsule, and the drug dosage in each cartridge must be validated. Manufacturing technologies and equipment must be capable of high throughput to meet demand and must be able to handle viscous powders that are not free-flowing. Specifically, cartridges must be filled with precisely controlled amounts of powder. While TECHNOSPHERE® microparticles are highly effective for drug delivery via inhalation, the resulting powder is very viscous and somewhat difficult to handle.

[0005] A prior art cartridge filling system includes delivering powder to a feed chamber of a metering wheel. The metering wheel then dispenses a controlled amount of powder into the cartridge. Prior art systems utilize vibration and a large paddle wheel to facilitate the flow of powder from the hopper through the feed chamber to the metering wheel. While prior art systems generally function, the energy imparted to the TECHNOSPHERE® particles causes powder compression and highly variable properties. The performance of prior art systems depends at least in part on the cohesiveness of the powder being processed, ranging from highly viscous to free-flowing.

[0006] Therefore, in order to reduce the variability of the powder content dispensed for pharmaceutical purposes, improved powder supply methods and equipment are needed. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one embodiment, there is a method for dispensing dry powder, the method comprising: introducing dry powder into a hopper; introducing ionized air into the hopper, the ionized air reducing electrostatic radiation emitted from the dry powder in the hopper; and dispensing the dry powder from the hopper into a filling chamber.

[0008] In some embodiments, the distal end of the hopper is in fluid communication with the filling chamber for conveying dry powder and with ambient air for discharging at least some ionized air from the bottom of the hopper. In some embodiments, ionized air is introduced into the hopper via at least one ionization device connected to a tube extending into the side of the hopper. In some embodiments, ionized air is introduced into the hopper via two ionization devices extending through opposite sides of the hopper. In some embodiments, a gap exists between the hopper and the filling chamber, which is in fluid communication with ambient air.

[0009] In some embodiments, the powder dispensing system further includes a gate communicating with a filling chamber. In some embodiments, the filling chamber includes a stirring rod configured to spread the dispensed powder onto the outer surface of a roller having cavities of a predetermined size.

[0010] In some embodiments, during powder dispensing, the at least one ionization device is activated at a flow rate of approximately 3.5 LPM to approximately 4 LPM. In some embodiments, the powder dispensing system is provided with a vacuum source having at least one gate in communication with a powder dispensing region positioned at (or along) an acute angle along the wall of the powder dispensing container.

[0011] In some embodiments, the dry powder processed through the hopper comprises 3,6-bis(N-fumaryl-4-aminobutyl)-2,5-diketopiperazine, or fumaroyldiketopiperazine, and therapeutically effective doses of treprostrin, its analogues, or esters thereof. In some embodiments, excess dry powder that does not ultimately enter the filling chamber is contained in an open chamber with sidewalls.

[0012] In another embodiment, there is a method for dispensing dry powder, the method comprising: introducing dry powder into a hopper; introducing ionized air into the hopper, the ionized air reducing electrostatic radiation emitted from the dry powder in the hopper; and dispensing the dry powder from the hopper into a filling chamber. In some embodiments, the ionized air is introduced into the hopper via at least one ionization device connected to a tube extending into the side of the hopper. In some embodiments, the distal end of the hopper is in fluid communication with the filling chamber for conveying the dry powder, and in fluid communication with ambient air for discharging at least some of the ionized air from the bottom of the hopper.

[0013] In another embodiment, a dry powder dispensing system includes a hopper, an ionization device coupled to the hopper and configured to reduce electrostatic radiation emitted from the dry powder dispensed in the hopper, and an outlet located at a distal end of the hopper. In some embodiments, the ionization device introduces ionized air into the hopper via at least one pipe extending into the side of the hopper. In some embodiments, the ionization device is a first ionization device, and a second ionization device is also included opposite to the first ionization device. In some embodiments, the first and second ionization devices each include a nozzle attachment. In some embodiments, the nozzle attachment includes a plurality of orifices for guiding the ionized air. In some embodiments, the intermediate orifice on the nozzle attachment of each of the first and second ionization devices is omitted.

[0014] In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system further includes a filling chamber. In some embodiments, an outlet is in fluid communication with the filling chamber for conveying dry powder and in fluid communication with ambient air for discharging at least some ionized air from the bottom of the hopper. In some embodiments, a gap exists between the hopper and the filling chamber, which is in fluid communication with ambient air.

[0015] In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system includes a gate communicating with a filling chamber, the filling chamber including a stirring rod configured to spread the dispensed powder onto the outer surface of a drum having a cavity of a predetermined size. In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system includes a vacuum source having at least one gate communicating with a powder dispensing region positioned at an acute angle along the wall of a powder dispensing container. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The following detailed description of embodiments of the powder conveying system will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of exemplary embodiments. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise arrangements and means shown.

[0017] In the attached diagram: Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a powder dispensing system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, showing an ionizer attached to an exemplary hopper system and a roller embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 It is attached to Figure 1 A perspective view of the two ionizers in the hopper.

[0019] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top view of the hopper.

[0020] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the hopper shows the ionizer that introduces ionized air into the hopper.

[0021] Figure 5A It comes with a nozzle attachment. Figure 1 A perspective view of an ionizer.

[0022] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A side view of an ionizer.

[0023] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the sensor in the powder dispensing system.

[0024] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the powder distribution system shows the gate and stirring bar upstream of the drum embodiment.

[0025] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 External perspective view of the powder dispensing system.

[0026] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 An enlarged view of the powder distribution system shows the gap formed between the hopper and the powder chamber when the gasket is removed from the hopper.

[0027] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An enlarged view of the powder dispensing system shows the gap.

[0028] Figure 11A and Figure 11B It is a graphical representation of the dry powder mass distributed using various sensor detection methods under various conditions, including when the mass of dry powder is detected by a sensor system and when weight analysis is performed under both ionized and non-ionized conditions.

[0029] Figure 12A and Figure 12BIt is a graphical representation of the dry powder mass distributed using various sensor detection methods, under various conditions where the mass of dry powder is detected by a sensor system and the gravimetric analysis is performed with ionization and a gate system closed on one side of the hopper. Detailed Implementation

[0030] This disclosure provides a system and method for filling cartridges with dry powder formulations.

[0031] Dry powder formulations are typically difficult to handle during the filling process. Dry powders typically present flow characteristics challenges because they have an inherent ability to adhere to themselves and cannot flow freely. Sometimes, processing aids (e.g., phospholipids, surfactants, etc.) are added to dry powder formulations to alleviate flow challenges during the filling process, but this can increase the complexity of the dry powder formulation, especially for pharmaceutically prepared dry powder formulations.

[0032] refer to Figure 1-10 A dry powder dispensing system, generally designated 100, is provided, comprising a funnel-shaped structure or hopper 102 modified to dispense dry powder at high speed for high-capacity use in cartridges or capsules containing doses of pharmaceutical products, for example, for dispensing purposes. Hopper 102 is coupled to a roller dispensing system 108 for accurately filling cartridges with a predetermined dosage for treating subjects.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the dry powder dispensing system 100 is designed for dry powders that are difficult to dispense consistently because the powder generates high electrostatic forces during processing, which interferes with obtaining accurate amounts of powder in all filled cartridges. In some embodiments, the dry powder is a pure powder formulation such that it contains only the active ingredient and excipients and does not contain any processing aids that help dissipate the electrostatic charge. Processing aids can be substances that improve the quality and processability of the dry powder by dissipating the electrostatic charge. For example, processing aids can be surfactants, phospholipids, polysorbates, amino acids, or any other suitable compounds. Due to the lack of processing aids, the dry powder may not flow easily through the powder hopper 102 and into the filling roller 108. The dry powder dispensing system 100 can overcome the electrostatic charge generated during the process by providing an ionization device or ionizer to the dry powder delivery system, which reduces the electrostatic forces generated during the dispensing process.

[0034] refer to Figure 1In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system 100 includes a powder hopper 102, a top open area for receiving powder through a screen 104, a port 106 for dispensing powder into an area communicating with a roller 108, a shaker mechanism 110 for shaking the screen 104, an ionization device 112 for reducing electrostatic radiation emitted from the powder dispensed in the hopper 102, a gasket 114, and one or more sensors 124 for detecting the dispensed powder, controlling the powder dispensing rate, and activating the shaker mechanism 110.

[0035] In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system 100 includes a plurality of ionization devices 112 coupled to the inner surface of the powder hopper 102. Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system 100 includes two ionization devices 112 coupled to the inner surface of the powder hopper 102 and positioned such that they face each other on opposite sides of the powder hopper 102. In some embodiments, the ionization devices 112 are coupled to the hopper 102 via an arm 113. The ionization devices 112 may be coupled to the arm 113 via a bracket 115. In some embodiments, the ionization devices 112 include a port 117 attached to a tube to receive ionized air. In some embodiments, the hopper 102 is vibrated and includes one or more shock absorbers 119 to prevent contact between the hopper 102 and the arm 113 during vibration.

[0036] In some embodiments, during powder dispensing, the ionization device 112 is activated to a flow rate of up to 10 liters per minute (LPM), 15 LPM, 20 LPM, or 30 LPM. In some embodiments, the ionization device 112 has a flow rate of about 3.5 LPM to about 4 LPM. In some embodiments, multiple ionization devices 112 are present, and the flow rate output is evenly distributed among the multiple ionization devices 112. For example, in some embodiments, the powder dispensing system 100 includes two ionization devices 112 with a total flow rate output of 4 LPM, such that each ionization device 112 is activated to a flow rate of 2 LPM. In some embodiments, the flow rate of the ionization device 112 depends on the density of the dry powder, with higher flow rates for higher-density dry powders.

[0037] refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B In some embodiments, the ionization device 112 includes a nozzle attachment 121 that directs ionized air into the hopper 102 as a cloud. In some embodiments, the nozzle attachment 121 includes a plurality of orifices 123 pointing in various directions. Figure 4As shown, in some embodiments, as the dry powder 109 is poured through the hopper 102, the ionization device 112 injects ionized air 111 into the hopper 102. In some embodiments, when two ionization devices 112 are positioned in the hopper 102 such that they face each other on opposite sides of the hopper 102, as... Figure 5A As shown, the central hole 125 on the nozzle attachment 121 is blocked or removed to minimize airflow resistance between the two ionization devices 112. In some embodiments, the nozzle attachment 121 is tapered.

[0038] refer to Figure 6 In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system 100 is connected to a power source and includes a powder delivery sensor 124 and a rotary valve. The powder delivery sensor 124 detects the amount of dry powder traveling through the lower delivery pipe 122 to the screen 104.

[0039] In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system 100 is provided with a vacuum source 128 having at least one gate communicating with a powder dispensing region positioned at an acute angle along the wall of a powder dispensing container. In some embodiments, the powder dispensing system 100 communicates with one or more microprocessors, which in turn communicate with one or more sensors for activating or deactivating components of the powder dispensing system 100 during the powder dispensing process. In some embodiments, the dry powder processed through the hopper 102 comprises 3,6-bis(N-fumaryl-4-aminobutyl)-2,5-diketopiperazine, or fumaroyldiketopiperazine, and therapeutically effective doses of treprostrin, its analogues, or esters thereof.

[0040] like Figure 6 As shown in the figure, in one embodiment, the powder dispensing system may include a sensor for detecting the amount of powder dispensed from the hopper to quantify the accuracy of the dispensed powder.

[0041] refer to Figure 7The powder dispensing system includes a gate 116 communicating with a chamber 118, which includes a stirring rod 120 configured to spread the dispensed powder onto the outer surface of a roller 108 having cavities of a predetermined size. In some embodiments, the stirring rod 120 is positioned within the chamber 118 to move powder from the chamber 118 to the filling roller 108. In some embodiments, the stirring rod 120 causes the chamber 118 to move in a rocking motion about a vertical axis of the agitator, such that powder flowing through the chamber 118 is incrementally or in predetermined amounts dispensed into the filling roller 108, which has cavities of a predetermined size depending on the predetermined amount of powder to be dispensed into a cartridge or capsule. In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system includes a scraper 107 to scrape excess dry powder into the chamber 118. In some embodiments, the agitator distributes the dry powder uniformly on the outer surface of the roller 108. In some embodiments, the cavities of predetermined size are spaced apart from each other and may be linearly arranged to facilitate the filling of the dispensing powder into cartridges or capsules. In some embodiments, the drum 108 includes a plurality of cavities of predetermined size. In some embodiments, a gate 116 allows ions to be removed from the chamber 118 during the dispensing process. In an exemplary embodiment, the dispensing system 100 or hopper 102 is in direct upstream communication with the drum 108, which has cavities of predetermined size arranged in a linear configuration for receiving a predetermined mass of powder dispensed to fill a dispensing cartridge or capsule. In some embodiments, the drum 108 is a rotating drum. In some embodiments, a stirrer rod 120 rotates before each rotation of the drum 108 when a new, unfilled cavity is displayed on the filling drum 108.

[0042] In one embodiment, the ionization device 112 includes an ionization detector or ionization chamber, which may be a gas-filled detector designed to measure ionization generated when incident particles pass through a hopper 102 that has an ionizing effect. Figure 8 As shown, in one embodiment, ionized air or charged air is introduced into hopper 102 via at least one tube 144 extending into the side of hopper 102. This at least one tube 144 may be coupled to port 117 of ionization device 112. In one embodiment, the distal end of hopper 102 is in fluid communication with chamber 118 for conveying dry powder and in fluid communication with ambient air for discharging ionized air from hopper. In one embodiment, at least one tube 144 comprises two tubes extending through opposite sides of hopper 102.

[0043] refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10When the gasket 114 is removed, a gap 148 is formed at the distal end of the powder hopper 102 between the powder hopper 102 and the powder hopper extension 146 in the inlet chamber 118. In some embodiments, the powder chamber structure hopper extends to the inlet plane or internal volume of the powder chamber. This gap 148 allows some dry powder to escape without entering the filling roller 108. The powder dispensing system 100 may also include a wall 150 to contain excess powder that fails to reach the filling roller 108. In some embodiments, the wall 150 may be as follows: Figure 9 and Figure 10 It is tapered as shown. In some embodiments, the wall 150 may be a shroud (not shown) surrounding the distal end 107 of the hopper 102.

[0044] A method for dispensing dry powder is also disclosed. The method includes: supplying dry powder to a hopper 102 or a powder dispensing device 100, the hopper or powder dispensing device including an ionization device 112, wherein the system does not include a rubber gasket 114 at a distal end of the hopper 102, wherein the powder is prone to having a high static charge during dispensing, and wherein the powder flows through the hopper 102 in a continuous flow for high-capacity dispensing to multiple cartridges or a reservoir; activating the ionization device 112 such that the dry powder static charge of the powder is reduced as the powder is dispensed in a consistent manner and in a predetermined amount through the hopper 102.

[0045] In one embodiment, a method for dispensing powder using the system includes removing one or more gaskets 114 between the powder hopper 102 and the chamber, wherein the powder will be dispensed and run through the system. Removing the gaskets 114 allows powder to flow through the hopper 102 in a predetermined amount while the ionizer 112 is running. In one embodiment, the ionizer 112 may be a gas ionization detector that can readily modulate the movement of electrons and ions in a gas. In one embodiment, a mixture of gases may be used to optimize the efficiency of the detector during rapid powder processing. In some embodiments, the ionizer 112 is integrated into the sidewall of the hopper 102. In some embodiments, the ionizer 112 injects ionized air into the hopper 102 as dry powder flows into it and allows the ionized air to pour down the hopper, which helps the dry powder flow through the hopper 102 to the filling roller 108. In some embodiments, removing the one or more gaskets 114, in conjunction with the ionizer 112, allows ionized air and dry powder to flow freely through the hopper 102 toward the filling roller 108. In some embodiments, ionizer 112 dispenses air at a rate of 5 LPM. In some embodiments, ionizer 112 dispenses air at a rate of about 2 LPM to about 20 LPM. In some embodiments, there is more than one ionizer 112.

[0046] In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system 100 can fill approximately 200 cartridges per minute. In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system 100 can fill 8 cartridges every 2.4 seconds. In some embodiments, the dry powder dispensing system 100 performs graduations 25 times per minute.

[0047] In some embodiments, the static reduction device is an active static reduction device that includes one or more static bars. In an exemplary embodiment, the static reduction device may include a gas system that can operate at various airflow rates, for example, up to 20 LPM.

[0048] In one embodiment, the static electricity reduction device may be a passive static electricity device, or two or more wind shields, which may include an inner wind shield for reducing small pressure and / or airflow changes and an outer wind shield for reducing large pressure and / or airflow changes.

[0049] The term “about” or “approximately” is used in the text to provide literal support for an exact number that immediately follows it, as well as for numbers that are close to or approximate to the number immediately following the term. In determining whether a number is close to or approximate to a particular enumerated number, an unenumerated number that is close to or approximate can be a number that provides a substantial equivalent to the particular enumerated number in its presented context. It should be recognized that all numerical values ​​and ranges disclosed in the text are approximate values ​​and ranges, whether or not “about” is used in conjunction with them. It should also be recognized that, as used in the text, the term “about” in conjunction with a number can mean a value that is ±0.01% (inclusive), ±0.1% (inclusive), ±0.5% (inclusive), ±1% (inclusive), ±2% (inclusive), ±3% (inclusive), ±5% (inclusive), ±10% (inclusive), or ±15% (inclusive) of that number. It should also be recognized that when a numerical range is disclosed in the text, any numerical value falling within that range is also specifically disclosed.

[0050] Those skilled in the art will recognize that modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments shown and described above without departing from their broad inventive concept. It should be understood that the embodiments and claims disclosed herein are not limited in their application to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the description and shown in the drawings. Rather, the description and drawings provide examples of the contemplated embodiments. The embodiments and claims disclosed herein are also capable of having other embodiments and can be practiced and implemented in various ways.

[0051] Specific features of exemplary embodiments may or may not be part of the claimed invention, and various features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined. Unless specifically stated herein, the terms “a,” “an,” and “the” are not limited to a single element but should be interpreted as meaning “at least one.” Finally, unless specifically stated herein, the disclosed or claimed methods should not be limited to performing their steps in the order written, and those skilled in the art will readily recognize that these steps may be performed in any practical order.

[0052] Example Example 1: Packaging ready for filling When filling cartridges with dry powder formulations, static electricity is generated within the capsule filling machine. This static electricity makes it very difficult for the dry powder to flow through the machine to be finally dispensed into the capsules.

[0053] The sensor enables highly accurate filling to the minimum powder amount, combined with 100% complete inspection. Capacitive measurements using the AMV sensor (Advanced Quality Verification) allow for accurate in-line inspection, even at maximum machine speeds.

[0054] Tests were conducted, including the inclusion of an ionizer in the hopper. The powder hopper was 33% full. The ionizer needed to be run (15 LPM total, half at each end). The sensor requested powder based on custom settings (#4). The shaker started at the powder hopper, the shaker started at the screen, and the delivery sensor requested the release of the rotary valve. Figure 1 The ionizer is shown positioned in the hopper. Testing was also conducted with the ionizer operating at a total of 5-7 LPM, half at each end. Improved sensor functionality is needed and is requested.

[0055] Near sample 6, the gasket was removed from the hopper due to observed static electricity. Results showed... Figure 11A , Figure 11B , Figure 12A and Figure 12B In the middle. When the gasket is removed, the powder is able to breathe. Removing the gasket and hopper extension (-400 mbar vacuum, 15 mm gate) resulted in good gravimetric alignment and good control of foreign powder.

Claims

1. A method for dispensing dry powder, comprising the following steps: The dry powder is introduced into the hopper; Ionized air is introduced into the hopper, which reduces electrostatic radiation emitted from the dry powder in the hopper; and The dry powder is dispensed from the hopper into the filling chamber.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The distal end of the hopper is in fluid communication with the filling chamber for conveying the dry powder, and in fluid communication with ambient air for discharging at least some of the ionized air from the bottom of the hopper.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The ionized air is introduced into the hopper via at least one ionization device connected to a pipe extending into the side of the hopper.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The ionized air is introduced into the hopper via two ionization devices that extend through opposite sides of the hopper.

5. The method according to claim 2, wherein, There is a gap between the hopper and the filling chamber, and the gap is in fluid communication with the ambient air.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, The powder dispensing system includes: A gate communicating with the filling chamber, the filling chamber including a stirring rod configured to spread the dispensed powder onto the outer surface of a roller having cavities of a predetermined size.

7. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one ionization device is activated during powder dispensing at a flow rate of approximately 3.5 LPM to approximately 4 LPM.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The powder dispensing system is provided with a vacuum source having at least one gate communicating with a powder dispensing area positioned at an acute angle along the wall of the powder dispensing container.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The dry powder processed through the hopper comprises 3,6-bis(N-fumaryl-4-aminobutyl)-2,5-diketopiperazine, or fumaroyldiketopiperazine, and a therapeutically effective dose of treprostrin, its analogues, or its esters.

10. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Excess dry powder that does not ultimately enter the filling chamber is contained in an open chamber with sidewalls.

11. A method for dispensing dry powder, comprising the following steps: The dry powder is introduced into the hopper; Ionized air is introduced into the hopper, which reduces electrostatic radiation emitted from the dry powder in the hopper; as well as The dry powder is dispensed from the hopper into the filling chamber. The ionized air is introduced into the hopper via at least one ionization device, which is connected to a pipe extending into the side of the hopper. The distal end of the hopper is in fluid communication with the filling chamber for conveying the dry powder, and in fluid communication with ambient air for discharging at least some of the ionized air from the bottom of the hopper.

12. A dry powder dispensing system, comprising: hopper; An ionization device, coupled to the hopper and configured to reduce electrostatic radiation emitted from the dry powder dispensed in the hopper; as well as The discharge port is located at the far end of the hopper.

13. The dry powder dispensing system according to claim 12, wherein, The ionization device introduces ionized air into the hopper via at least one tube extending into the side of the hopper.

14. The dry powder dispensing system according to claim 13, wherein, The ionization device is a first ionization device, and also includes a second ionization device opposite to the first ionization device.

15. The dry powder dispensing system according to claim 14, wherein, The first ionization device and the second ionization device each include a nozzle accessory. The nozzle accessory includes a plurality of orifices for guiding the ionized air.

16. The dry powder dispensing system according to claim 15, wherein, The intermediate hole on the nozzle attachment of each of the first and second ionization devices is omitted.

17. The dry powder dispensing system according to claim 13, further comprising: Filling chamber, The discharge port is in fluid communication with the filling chamber for conveying the dry powder and in fluid communication with ambient air for discharging at least some of the ionized air from the bottom of the hopper.

18. The dry powder dispensing system according to claim 17, wherein, There is a gap between the hopper and the filling chamber, and the gap is in fluid communication with the ambient air.

19. The dry powder dispensing system according to claim 18, further comprising: A gate communicating with the filling chamber, the filling chamber including a stirring rod configured to spread the dispensed powder onto the outer surface of a roller having cavities of a predetermined size.

20. The dry powder dispensing system of claim 12, further comprising: A vacuum source having at least one gate communicating with a powder dispensing area positioned at an acute angle along the wall of a powder dispensing container.