Hand-held device for dispensing a pharmaceutical substance in portions

Abstract

The invention is concerned with a hand-held device 1 for dispensing a pharmaceutical substance in portions, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2), accommodated in the housing (6) and containing the substance, the housing (6) having a mouthpiece (7) and the cartridge (2) is movably arranged between a rest position and a dispensing position, further with a pressure part (9) moveably arranged in the housing (6) to be moved between an initial position and a clamping position to build up a force for moving the cartridge (2) between the rest position and the dispensing position, and with a valve flap (15) that can be moved, by a user inhaling on the mouthpiece (7), between a starting position and a pivoted position. In order to have a secure functioning of the hand-held device is provided that a holding part (16) is provided for that can be moved between a holding position and a release position, which in the holding position prevents the movement of the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position, that the valve flap (15) in the starting position blocks the movement of the holding part (16) in the holding position, the holding part (16) being moved by the cartridge (2) into the release position when the valve flap (15) moves into the pivoted position, the force acting on the cartridge (2) in the clamping position being reduced thereby. Additionally or in the alternative the force acting in the clamping position on the cartridge is adjustable.

Description

TitleHand-held device for dispensing a pharmaceutical substance in portions.Field of Invention

[0001] The invention relates to a hand-held device for dispensing a pharmaceutical substance in portions, having a housing and a cartridge containing the substance accommodated in the housing, the housing having a mouthpiece and the cartridge being arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, further with a pressure part in the housing acting on the cartridge, the pressure part can be displaced between an initial position and a clamping position while building up a force serving to move the cartridge.

[0002] A holding part that can be moved between a holding position and a release position can also be provided, with the holding part preventing the movement of the cartridge in the holding position. For moving the cartridge into the dispensing position, a user has to inhale on the mouthpiece to build up a vacuum.

[0003] Alternatively or additionally, a valve flap can be provided for, which can be moved between a starting position and a pivoted position, wherein it can be in order to move the cartridge into the dispensing position, the valve flap is to be moved from the starting position into the pivoted position by the user inhaling on the mouthpiece.

[0004] A hand-held device, as is particularly described here, is also referred to as an inhaler. The aim is to ensure that the substance is actually inhaled by the user. The hand-held device should only deliver substance to the user, in the dispensing position, when the user has taken the hand-held device with the mouthpiece into his mouth and is inhaling. In the course of suction, the holdingpart is removed from a movement path of the cartridge and the cartridge then moves into the dispensing position as a result of the force built up. When moving into the dispensing position, the valve is pressed into the cartridge against the force of a valve spring and a predetermined amount of substance emerges from the cartridge. The substance is usually under pressure and a spraying process occurs. With regard to such cartridges and valves, reference is made to EP 2275479A1 and US 2016 / 0 084385 Al, for example. These explanations are also correspondingly important for the hand-held devices, as are disclosed here in more detail and describe in this respect also the device disclosed here.State of the Art

[0005] In a hand-held device known from WO 2020 / 105 943 Al (US 2021 / 0 316 092 Al), the valve flap is also the holding part at the same time. However there are fears, that slight movements of the valve flap, such as caused by improper placement or shaking, can already lead to substance being dispensed.

[0006] Furthermore, it has also been shown that cartridges of different sizes are possible and the force acting to move the cartridge into the clamped position is not sufficient or to high.

[0007] Proceeding from the state of the art presented, the invention is concerned with the task of specifying an embodiment which is as safe as possible with regard to the dispensing of substance. Furthermore, the invention is also independently or additionally concerned with the task of ensuring a sufficient force for moving the cartridge into the dispensing position, which is as independent as possible of a specific size of a cartridge.Field of Technology

[0008] To solve this problem, one possible embodiment provides that the holding part can be moved between a holding position and a release position, which in the holding position prevents the movement of the cartridge into the dispensing position, that the valve flap in the starting position blocks the movement of the holding part in the holding position and the holding part is moved by the cartridge into the release position when the valve flap moves into the pivoted position, with the force acting on the cartridge in the clamping position being reduced.

[0009] The valve flap has the task of initially blocking the holding part as long as a user is not inhaling on the mouthpiece in the usual way. For this purpose, the holding part is preferably a part that is separate from the valve flap. Slight movements of the valve flap do not yet lead to the holding part being released.

[0010] In order to achieve the stated object, according to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the force acting in the clamping position can be adjusted.

[0011] Due to the adjustability of the force, an individual adjustment to a specific cartridge can be made.

[0012] According to one possible embodiment, it is provided that the holding part can be pivoted about a first pivot axis. The holding part is designed as a pivoting part and can be moved between the holding position and the release position, having an advantageous bearing.

[0013] According to another possible embodiment it is provided that the holding part has a predetermined first pivoting direction with regard to a move-ment from the holding position into the release position. The holding part can preferably only move in one pivoting direction. With regard to the pivoting axis, the pivoting direction indicates the direction of a movement about the pivoting axis, a direction of rotation of a circular movement.

[0014] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the valve flap can be pivoted about a second pivot axis. The valve flap is also a pivoting part.

[0015] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that a reset part is provided for resetting the valve flap and / or the holding part into the starting position or into the holding position. In principle, gravity could also be sufficient for resetting in one embodiment. However, a separate reset part is advantageously provided.

[0016] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the reset part is designed as a reset spring. With the movement of the valve flap from the starting position into the pivoted position and / or the movement of the holding part from the holding position into the release position, a spring force for resetting can be built up. An automatic reset may result.

[0017] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the reset part has a first spring section which interacts with the housing to reset the reset part. As is explained in more detail below, the reset part can also be used to trigger dispensing of substance without prior inhaling at the mouthpiece. In this case, in particular, the reset part has to be moved as a whole and the first spring section is required to reset the reset part as a whole. For this purpose, the reset part preferably has an auxiliary projection, acting preferably on the valve flap.

[0018] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the reset part has a second spring section which interacts with the valve flap to reset the valve flap. The second spring section preferably ensures that the valve flap automatically moves back from the pivoted position to the initial position.

[0019] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the reset part has a third spring section which interacts with the holding part to reset the holding part. The third spring section preferably ensures that the holding part moves back from the release position into the holding position.

[0020] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the cartridge has a stop part. The cartridge can be seated on the holding part in the clamping position by means of the stop part. The stop part does not have to be an integral part of the cartridge. As explained further below, it can also be part of a counter arranged between the cartridge and the holding part. The fact that the cartridge has a stop part does not necessarily mean that the cartridge acts directly on the stop part, but possibly via a part arranged in between, for example the mentioned counter. The cartridge can also act directly on the stop part.

[0021] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the stop part extends at an angle with respect to a direction of movement of the cartridge. As a result, the stop part can exert a force application on the holding part that is inclined with respect to the direction of movement of the cartridge. This can promote the immediate movement of the holding part to the release position when the valve flap moves from the initial position to the pivoted position.

[0022] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the pressure part exerts the force on the cartridge by means of an elastically deformed transmission part.

[0023] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the transmission part is a spring.

[0024] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the transmission part or the spring respectively acts between the pressure part and a support part supported on the cartridge. The transmission part or the spring respectively is preferably not placed directly on the cartridge. In this way, a decoupling from the cartridge with regard to the adjustability of the force can also be achieved in a favorable manner.

[0025] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the force can be adjusted by changing an effective distance between the pressure part and the cartridge. Although the pressure part can be moved relative to the cartridge anyway, between the initial position and the clamping position, it can also be changed independently or in addition to this mobility in its distance from the cartridge that is relevant for an effect on the cartridge.

[0026] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the pressure part consists of a coupling part and an adjustment part. The coupling part is preferably used for coupling to a part provided for reaching the clamped position. This is more preferably the mouthpiece closure cap, which is moveable from a closed position to an open position and vice versa. The adjustment part is preferably the part of the pressure part that determines the distance on the pressure part side that is relevant for the action on the cartridge.

[0027] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the adjustment part can be displaced relative to the coupling part in order to adjust the force acting in the clamped position.

[0028] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the adjustment part can be screwed into place by means of thread formations formed on the coupling part and the adjustment part. The adjustment part can therefore be further screwed into the coupling part or screwed out of it.

[0029] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the spring is prestressed in the initial position. This enables a safe development of power. Nevertheless, the preload does not have to lead to a load on the cartridge as long as the pressure part is still in the initial position. Relief beyond the given preload is preferably not possible.

[0030] The possible embodiments described above and below can be provided individually or in combination with regard to two or more possible embodiments, up to all possible embodiments. In particular in a combination as it results from the possible embodiments in the exemplary embodiments described.Brief Description of the Drawing

[0031] The handset is further described below with reference to the attached drawing, which shows::Fig. 1 a perspective view of the hand-held device;Fig. 2 a section through the object according to Figure 1 along the plane II-II, according to a first embodiment;Fig. 3 a section according to Figure 2, showing a second embodiment;Fig. 4 an exploded view of the second embodiment, concerning the pressure part and the adjustment part;Fig. 5 an exploded view of the second embodiment in terms of an assembly with the valve flap and the holding part;Fig. 6 an enlarged view of a support part, in a diagonal view from above; Fig. 7 an illustration according to FIG. 6, in a view diagonally from below;Fig. 8 a perspective view of an intermediate part;Fig. 9 a plan view of the adjustment part;Fig. 10 a section through the adjustment part according to FIG. 9 along line X-X;Fig. 11 a section through an assembling unit having the adjustment part, the support part and the intermediate part;Fig. 12 an enlargement of Figure 3 according to XII in Fig. 3;Fig. 13 a section through the object according to Figure 12 along line XIII-XIII;Fig. 14 a partial view of an end portion of the cartridge with stop part being underneath and the holding part and the valve flap;Fig. 15 an exploded view of the parts valve flap, holding part, reset part and receptacle for this;Fig. 16 a plan view of the reset part;Fig. 17 a schematic view of the hand-held device, cut in the area of the adjustment part, with a mouthpiece closure cap being closed;Fig. 18 a representation according to FIG. 17, a relevant distance being changed;Fig. 19 a perspective view, showing part of the hand-held device from diagonally below, the mouthpiece closure cap being open;Fig. 20 a section through the object of figure 19, along the plane XX- XX;Fig. 21 an enlargement of XXI in Figure 20Fig. 22 a representation according to FIG. 20, after inhaling by a user, being a theoretical intermediate position;Fig. 23 an enlargement of XXIII in Figure 22;Fig. 24 a section along line XXIV-XXIV in Figure 22;Fig. 25 a subsequent representation following FIG. 22;Fig. 26 a subsequent representation of Figure 24 concerning the state according to FIG. 23;Fig. 27 an enlargement of the area XXVII in Figure 25;Fig. 28 a subsequent representation following FIG. 25; andFig. 29 a subsequent representation of Figure 28.Description of the Embodiments

[0032] Shown and described, FIG. 1, is a hand-held device 1, which is used for portioned dispensing of preferably sprayable pharmaceutical substance. The substance is contained in a cartridge 2, compare FIGS. 2 and 3. The cartridge 2 has a valve 3 which releases substance by being pressed into the cartridge 2. Usually, and in the illustrated embodiments, pushing the valve 3 into the cartridge 2 is achieved by pressing on an opposite end of the cartridge. The valve is accommodated in a valve seat 4, in which a spray nozzle 5 is also formed.

[0033] The substance is usually under pressure in the cartridge 2, so that the substance is sprayed when it is pressed in. A metered amount of substance is sprayed. In order to be able to spray a further quantity, the cartridge 2 must first be relieved again, with the valve 3 moving back into its initial position.

[0034] The hand-held device 1 also has a housing 6, a mouthpiece 7 and a mouthpiece closure cap 8 .

[0035] The cartridge 2 can be moved between a rest position, such as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, and a dispensing position, such as shown in FIG. 25, by the application of force. For this purpose, a pressure part 9 is arranged in the housing 6 . The pressure part 9 is to be shifted between an initial position, for example according to FIGS. 2, 3 and 17, and a clamping position, for example according to FIG. 25.

[0036] Specifically and preferably, the pressure part 9 consists of a preferably sleeve-shaped coupling part 10 and an adjustment part 11, see also FIGS. 9 and 10. The adjustment part 11 acts on the cartridge 2 by means of an elastically deformable transmission part U, which in the exemplary embodiment is preferably a spring 12.

[0037] The adjustment part 11 preferably interacts by means of thread formations formed on the coupling part 10 and the adjustment part 11, for example an internal thread 51 and an external thread 50.

[0038] In the exemplary embodiment and preferably, the coupling part 10 has coupling arms 13. The coupling arms 13 can interact with an eccentric 14 formed on a holding arm 45 of the mouthpiece closure cap 8. For this purpose, reference is also made to FIG. 5, for example. The eccentric 14 is preferably accommodated in an oblong hole 46 on preferably each of the coupling armes 13.

[0039] When opening the mouthpiece closure cap 8, in which it is moved from a position according to Figures 2, 3 to a position according to Figure 18, 19, 20, 22, 25, 28, the coupling part 10, in the embodiment and preferably with the eccentrics 14 accommodated in the oblong holes 46, is pulled downwards, in the direction of the valve seat 4, into the clamped position. As a result, the transmission part U, preferably the spring 12, is deformed and thus tensioned and exerts corresponding pressure on the cartridge 2.

[0040] The force acting between the pressure part 9 and the cartridge 2 is preferably adjustable. The setting can be achieved by changing an effective distance a, compare, for example, FIGS. 2 and 3 as well as 17, between the pressure part 9 and the cartridge 2. The changed distance is shown as a' in Fig. 18. In the exemplary embodiment and preferably, this can be achieved by adjusting the ad-justment part 11 relative to the coupling part 10 using the thread formations mentioned. In FIG. 18, the smaller distance a' is realized by turning the adjusting part 11 in relation to the coupling part 10 in comparison to FIG. 17.

[0041] When the distance is adjusted from size a to size a', the result is that the coupling part 10 is loaded upwards, away from the valve receptacle 4.

[0042] Basically then already in the initial position, a certain load may bear on the cartridge 2. However, it is preferred that the cartridge 2 in the initial position of the pressure part 9 is not charged by the pressure part 9.

[0043] The eccentric 14 can be received in the oblong hole 46 with vertical clearance, which means a free distance b between the eccentric 14 and an associated - lower - edge of the oblong hole 46. "Vertical" is seen here in the direction of movement of the cartridge 2 from the rest position to the starting position. This can mean that when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is pivoted open, interaction with an edge of the oblong hole 46 only occurs after a larger pivoting angle, so that the force exerted on the cartridge 2 when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is fully pivoted out is less than it would compared to a maximum possible force due to the displacement of the oblong hole 46. When the distance a is adjusted to the distance a', however, this results in the interaction starting earlier in relation to the pivoting angle, at a smaller pivoting angle, so that ultimately, when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is pivoted completely open, this results in a greater force acting on the cartridge 2 in the clamping position. At the same time, it can thereby be achieved that no force acts on the cartridge 2 in the initial position, regardless of the adjustment mentioned. Nevertheless, it is also possible that already with the mouthpiece closure cap closed, a certain initial force rests on the cartridge 2.

[0044] The housing 6 is also preferably formed like a sleeve. The housing 6 and the pressure part 9 are preferably arranged in a nested manner, with the pressure part 9 being on the inside. The housing 6 can be designed in two or more parts. In the exemplary embodiment, an upper part and a lower part are provided. The lower part essentially comprises the mouthpiece 7, the valve seat 4 and the housing bottoms described below. The two or more parts can be snapped together. In addition, there is the mouthpiece closure cap 8.

[0045] Support arms 47 are also formed on the upper housing part. A bearing pin 49 of the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is accommodated in a bearing opening 48 . In this regard, reference is also be made to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0046] In the housing 6 of the hand-held device 1 a valve flap 15 is also provided. The valve flap 15 is flow-connected to a suction channel formed by the mouthpiece 7. When a user inhales on the mouthpiece 7, the valve flap 15 is subjected to negative air pressure. The valve flap 15 is preferably arranged in the housing 6 so that it can pivot. As a result of the application of negative pressure, it can move from an starting position according to FIGS. 2, 3, 14 into a pivoted position according to FIGS 22, 25. It releases a flow path in the manner of a valve, via which further air can flow into the mouthpiece 7 in the course of the suction by the user.

[0047] A holding part 16 is also provided in the housing 6 of the hand-held device 1. The holding part 16 can be moved between a holding position, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and a release position, as shown in FIGS 25, 27, 28. In the holding position, the holding part 16 prevents movement of the cartridge 2 into the dispensing position. In the holding position, the valve flap 15 also blocks the movement of the holding part 16. The holding part 16 can only move when the valve flap 15 moves into the pivoted position. As a result, the blockage ofthe holding part 16 is released and the cartridge 2 pressing on the holding part 16 moves the holding part 16 into the release position.

[0048] The holding part 16 can be pivoted about a first pivot axis Al. The holding part 16 can move from the holding position into the release position in a first predetermined pivoting direction R1 about the pivoting axis Al.

[0049] The valve flap 15 can be pivoted about a second pivoting axis A2, preferably also in an identical, second pivoting direction R2, now based on the pivoting axis A2.

[0050] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the first and the second pivot axis Al, A2 run approximately parallel to one another. The valve flap 15 and the holding part 16 are preferably arranged next to one another. In this regard, reference is also made to FIG. 14, for example. Seen in the direction of the mouthpiece 7, they are arranged one behind the other, the holding part 16 being at the front, closer to the mouthpiece 7.

[0051] The valve flap 15 can advantageously only pivot in one direction from the starting position into the pivoted position. The movement from the pivoted position to the starting position or, in relation to the holding part 15, from the release position to the holding position then takes place in the opposite direction.

[0052] Since, according to a possible embodiment, the first and the second pivoting direction Rl, R2 are the same, an assembling space can be used favorably, see also Figure 15, for example.

[0053] More preferably, a reset part 17 is provided for resetting the valve flap 15 and the holding part 16 into the starting position or into the holding position. In the exemplary embodiment and preferred, a uniform reset part 17 is provided. However, there can also be separate reset parts.

[0054] The reset part 17 is preferably designed as a reset spring, having parts or extensions or sections with a spring action.

[0055] See Fig. 15 and 16 in particular, the reset part 17 can have a first spring section 18 and / or a second spring section 19 and / or a third spring section 20. Regardless of the designation "first" etc. it is also possible for only one or more of the spring sections to be formed.

[0056] In this case, the first spring section 18 interacts with the housing 6, preferably an inner surface of the housing 6, in order to reset the reset part 17 as a whole. This has significance in the context of triggering dispensing of substance without requiring aspiration by a user. Only to this purpose, preferably, the reset part 17 as such is moving.

[0057] In principle, there is no need for such a configuration. Rather, the aim of the hand-held device 1 described here is that a user can only trigger dispensing of substance by inhaling. However, there is a need, for example for test purposes, to release substance without inhaling being necessary. The reset part 17 can also be used for this purpose (or possibly alone). Such use of the reset part 17 is described in detail further below.

[0058] The second spring section 19 interacts with the valve flap 15. It makes it possible to move the valve flap 15 back from the pivoted position to the starting position. For this purpose, the valve flap 15 can have a first loading extension21, compare, for example, FIGS. 15 and 21. When the valve flap 15 is moved into the pivoted position as shown in FIG. 22, the first loading extension 21 has simultaneously moved the second spring section 19 from the position shown in FIG. 24 to the position shown in FIG. 26, building up a restoring force. When the user stops inhaling, the second spring section 19 can thereby move the valve flap 15 back into the starting position. This is also illustrated in FIG.16 with respect to the second spring section 19 being shown in complete and dashed lines.

[0059] The third spring section 20 is used in a comparable manner to reset the holding part 16 from the release position to the holding position. For this purpose, the holding part 16 preferably has, and in the exemplary embodiment, a second loading extension 22, see also Figures 15 and 21. As it is evident e. g. from Fig. 16, in this regard is also to refer to the exploded view of Fig. 15, upon movement of the holding part 16 into the release position, the third spring section 20 is deflected by building up a restoring force. When accompanied by a closing of the mouthpiece closure cap 8, the cartridge 2 or a stop part 23 of the cartridge 2 is moved back into the rest position, the holding part 16 moves back into the holding position due to the action of the third spring section 20.

[0060] In this case, the valve flap 15 regularly moves first into the starting position, so that the holding part 16 does not initially reach a blocking position. However, because the third spring section 20 is set stronger than the second spring section 19, as is preferred, the holding part 16 can again briefly move the valve flap 15 in the direction of the second pivoting direction R2, as is indicated by the dashed line representation in FIG. 29 and thus reach the blocking position.

[0061] Only the first 18 or second 19 or third spring section 20, or a combination of the first 18 and the second 19, the second 19 and third 20 or the first 18and third spring section 20 can also be formed. In particular, the second 19 and third spring section 20 can also be fixed directly to the housing 6 or to a common part, which in turn is fixed to the housing 6.

[0062] The reset part 17 as a whole, in particular when the first 18, second 19 and third spring section 20 are formed on the reset part 17, is preferably accommodated in the housing 6 in a slide-like, displaceable manner. It can rest on an upper side of a housing bottom, preferably a second housing bottom 27. In this regard, reference is made to the exploded view according to FIG.15.

[0063] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that a spring force of the first spring section 18 is set stronger than a spring force of the second 19 and the third spring section 20. This makes it possible in particular for the reset part 17 not to move when according to normal use of the handheld device 1, by inhaling on the mouthpiece 7, the valve flap 15 and also the holding part 16 are moved.

[0064] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that a spring force of the third spring section 20 is set stronger than a spring force of the second spring section 19. The third spring section 20 loads the holding part 16 into the holding position. This design of the spring forces helps to ensure that even if the valve flap 16 moves slightly due to unintentional external stress, such as a vibration, the holding part 16 does not necessarily move as well. In addition and as an alternative, this setting of the spring forces is also important for resetting the valve flap 15 and the holding part 16 into the starting position or the holding position after substance has been dispensed.

[0065] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the spring force of the third spring section 20 is set to be weaker than the force ex-erted by the cartridge 2 when moving from the rest position into the dispensing position. When the cartridge 2 moves into the dispensing position, it can easily overcome the spring force acting on the holding part 16.

[0066] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the valve flap 15 has a blocking projection 24. The blocking projection 24 can be favorable with regard to a desired interaction with the holding part 16.

[0067] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the blocking projection 24 in the initial position catches over the holding part 16 located in the holding position. The blocking projection 24 enables the holding part 16 to be held in a form-fitting manner in the holding position. The blocking projection 24 must first be moved completely out of the overhanging position before the holding part 16 can move. With the preferred pivoting movement of the valve flap 15, this can mean a pivoting angle of 5-15° or more.

[0068] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that a force resultant KR acting on the holding part 16 in the clamping position, see for example Figure 23, of the force exerted on the holding part 16 by the cartridge 2, in the given case by means of the stop part 23, runs in a distance to the first pivot axis Al. In this way, a favorable leverage of the force applied to the holding part 16 by the cartridge 2 or the stop part 23 can be achieved.

[0069] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the force resultant KR runs in a cross section on a first side of the first pivot axis Al, which is opposite a second side of the pivot axis Al towards which the holding part 16 shifts when moving into the release position. The force resultant KR is thus favorable for a force acting on the holding part 16 and pointing in the desired direction of displacement.

[0070] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the holding part 16 has a blocking counter-projection 25 which is overhung by the blocking projection 24 in the holding position. Accordingly, both the holding part 16 and the valve flap 15 preferably have projections which interact for the desired blocking.

[0071] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the holding part 16 has an actuating surface F that runs inclined to a direction of movement of the cartridge 2. This configuration enables the same effect as the stated direction of the force resultant KR. Both measures can be provided individually or in combination.

[0072] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the actuating surface F runs in the shape of a preferably circular arc in a cross section in which the first pivoting axis Al appears in the form of a point. As a result, the desired pushing away of the holding part 16 into the release position by the cartridge 2 can be achieved in a favorable manner. It is preferred that only the valve flap 15, when in the starting position and the holding part 16 is in the holding position, causes the holding part 16 to maintain the holding position and not move to the release position.

[0073] According to a further possible embodiment, provision is made for the actuating surface F to run at a vertical distance from the first pivoting axis Al. Vertical spacing can correspond to a radial extent of the blocking projection 25 or more. In this way, too, a lever arm with regard to the loading of the holding part 16 by the cartridge 2 is achieved in a favorable manner.

[0074] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the housing 6 has an air-permeable first housing bottom 26. The first housing bot-tom 26 preferably closes off a space at the bottom in which the cartridge 2, optionally a counter 43 and the valve seat 4 are formed or provided for.

[0075] In the exemplary embodiment, a counter 43, not shown in further detail, is provided. The counter 43 is preferably acted upon directly by an underside 44 of the cartridge 2. In the exemplary embodiment and preferably, the stop part 23 is formed on the counter 43, preferably on the underside of the counter 43. With regard to possible configurations of the counter 43 as such, reference is also made to US Pat. Nos. 7,827,984 B2, US 7,984,710 B2, US 7,448,342 B2 and US 8,474,447 B2. A counter with a stop part is shown in the already mentioned WO 2020 / 105943 Al (US 2021 / 0316 092 Al)

[0076] The valve 3 preferably extends, at least in part, through the counter 43. The counter 43 also alternatively or additionally preferably surrounds a region of the valve seat 4.

[0077] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the housing 6 has a second housing bottom 27 formed below the first housing bottom 26.

[0078] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the valve flap 15 is arranged below the first housing bottom 26. The valve flap 15 can be conveniently arranged in a space between the first 26 and the second housing bottom 27. In particular, the first housing bottom 26 can also be designed in the manner of a grid, or only with a comparatively narrow air passage opening. In any case, it is preferred that the valve flap 15 and / or the holding part 16, even if they should have been detached from a holder, cannot penetrate the first housing bottom 26 and thus cannot get into the airway to the user.

[0079] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the holding part 16 is arranged below the first housing bottom 26 .

[0080] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the valve flap 15 and the holding part 16 are arranged above the second housing bottom 27 .

[0081] According to a further possible embodiment, provision is made for the reset part 17 to be arranged below the valve flap 15. In addition, it is preferably arranged above the second housing base 27.

[0082] According to a further possible embodiment, provision is made for the reset part 17 to be arranged below the holding part 16.

[0083] In this regard, too, reference is made to the exploded view in FIG 15.

[0084] According to a further possible embodiment, provision is made for the reset part 17 to have an actuating projection 28. This actuating projection 28 is intended for use without the user actually inhaling, in order to trigger a dispensing process. Preferably, the actuating projection 28 is barely visible to a user and / or is hidden.

[0085] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the actuating projection 28 protrudes from the housing 6. As a result, it can be reached and operated comparatively easily in the given case of use. In further detail, it is preferred that the actuating projection 28 is also covered by the mouthpiece closure cap 8 when the mouthpiece closure cap 8 is closed. The actuating device 28 is also preferably located below the mouthpiece 7, on the frontside of the housing 6 that faces the user during use. As a result, it is practically invisible to the user. With normal handling, it is also not touched.

[0086] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the reset part 17 has a supporting projection 29 on which the valve flap 15 rests in the initial position.

[0087] According to a further possible embodiment, provision is made for the adjustment part 11 to have a formation 30 on a side facing away from the cartridge 2 for interaction with a turning tool. The formation 30 can be, for example, a slot for attaching a screwdriver or a polygon for attaching a wrench or an Allen tool (polygon socket).

[0088] According to a further possible embodiment, a support part 31 is provided, via which the force is transmitted to the cartridge 2. The support part 31 can interact with the adjustment part 11 in a displaceable manner. The support part 31 is arranged between the cartridge and the spring 12. The support part 31 can be latched to the adjustment part 11. The spring 12 rests on the support part 31. The spring 12 is preferably supported only on the adjustment part 11 and the support part 31. In this regard, reference is made in particular to the exploded view according to FIG. 4, but also to FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0089] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the support part 31 can be moved relative to the adjustment part 11 between a stop position and an adjustment position. In addition to an increase in the force acting on the cartridge, there can be a corresponding increase in the force in the tensioned position, possibly achieved by the screw adjustment. Here, the support part 31 moves from the stop position into the adjustment position. It is preferred, see above, that the support part 31 only moves into the adjustment posi-tion in the course of the movement of the pressure part into the clamping position. The portion of the force that increases the preload acts on the cartridge 2 either after the adjustment, before the pressure part 9 is moved into the clamping position, or, preferably, only after the pressure part 9 is moved into the clamping position then as a proportion of the total force acting on cartridge 2.

[0090] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the support part 31 has a stop projection 32 which, in the stop position, bears against a counter-stop 33 of the adjustment part. In this way, the preload can be achieved without a force being necessarily exerted on the cartridge 2 as a result of the preload. Reference is also made to FIG. 11 in this regard.

[0091] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that several stop projections 32 are provided. For example, three stop projections 32 can be provided. These can be distributed evenly or unevenly over a circumference. Correspondingly, several counter-stops 33 can also be provided.

[0092] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that the support part 31 is supported on an intermediate part 34 arranged between the support part 31 and the cartridge 2.

[0093] According to a further possible embodiment, compare in particular Figures 12 and 13, it is provided that the intermediate part 34 is secured against rotation on the pressure part 9. For this purpose, the intermediate part 34 can have one or more securing projections 35 which are caught between one or more securing counter-projections 36 of the pressure part 9, in the exemplary embodiment and preferably formed on an inner surface of the coupling part 10. In this way it can be achieved that a rotary movement of the adjustment part 11 does not act on the cartridge 2.

[0094] According to a further possible embodiment, provision is made for the intermediate part 34 to have ribs 37 which can be run over in one direction, facing the support part 31 (see also FIG. 8).

[0095] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the support part 31 faces the intermediate part 34 and has projections 38 , preferably also rib-like, provided for interaction with the ribs 37. Reference is now made to Figure 7, for example.

[0096] A preferably ratchet-like interaction between the support part 31 and the intermediate part 34 is achieved with the aid of the ribs 37 and projections 38. Since the intermediate part 34 is preferably secured against rotation on the pressure part 9, it can also be achieved in this way, with a connection between the support part 31 and the adjustment part 11, secured against rotation, that an adjustment of the adjustment part 11 is secured. There can be no turning back.

[0097] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that a spacer spring 39 acts between the support part 31 and the intermediate part 34. In this regard, reference is also made to FIG. 8, for example.

[0098] According to a further possible embodiment it is provided that several spacer springs 39 are provided.

[0099] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that a spacer spring 39 is formed onto the intermediate part 34.

[0100] The one or more spacer springs preferably act on a peripheral overhanging edge 40 of the support part 31.

[0101] The one or more spacer springs 39 are advantageous with regard to a favorable ratchet-like interaction between the support part 31 and the intermediate part 34.

[0102] According to a further possible embodiment, provision is made for the intermediate part 34 to be latched to the support part 31. The snap-in mount can be achieved, for example, by two snap-in feet 41.

[0103] According to a further possible embodiment, it is provided that the support part 31 can be rotated relative to the intermediate part 34.

[0104] The hand-held device 1 can be used as follows.

[0105] A user picks up the hand-held device 1 in the closed position according to FIG 1. He then opens the mouthpiece closure cap 8, after which the handheld device 1 is in a configuration according to FIG 18. By pivoting the mouthpiece closure cap 8, the pressure part 9 is shifted from the initial position, which is given in a constellation according to FIG. 1, into the clamping position. A force sufficient for a dispensing process now acts on the cartridge 2. The cartridge 2 has not moved at all or only slightly during the movement of the pressure part 9 into the clamping position. In any case, the cartridge 2 has not moved so much that cartridge 2 is in the dispensing position, so that there is a release of substance. The cartridge 2 cannot yet move into the dispensing position simply because of the opening of the mouthpiece closure cap 8 because it is supported on the holding part 16 by means of the stop part 23.

[0106] In order for the substance to be released, the user must suck on the mouthpiece 7. As a result, as shown in FIG. 22, the valve flap 15 moves into the pivoted position and the blocking projection 24 releases the counter-blockingprojection 25. The holding part 16 is then, without any further action being required, moved by the cartridge 2, in the exemplary embodiment by the stop part 23 seated directly on the holding part 16, into the release position. The cartridge 2 moves further down, the valve 3 being pushed into the cartridge 2, and substance is being dispensed.

[0107] If the user then sets the hand-held device 1 down again or stops inhaling, the valve flap 15 is moved back into the initial position by the second spring section 19, see FIG 28. Since the cartridge 2, in the exemplary embodiment and preferably the stop part 23, prevents the holding part 16 from moving back into the holding position, the blocking projection 24 reaches under the counter-blocking projection 25, as can also be seen in FIG 28.

[0108] In order to achieve further substance delivery, the user must first close the mouthpiece closure cap 8 again, as indicated in FIG 29. Here, the pressure part 9 is moved back into the initial position. Due to a valve spring (not shown in detail) acting between the valve 3 and the cartridge 2, the cartridge 2 again assumes the position according to FIG. 2 or FIG. 3 with respect to the valve 3. The cartridge 2 moves upwards accordingly and with it the stop part 23 as well. The stop part 23 thus clears the way for the holding part 16 to move into the holding position. The holding part 16 is moved back into the holding position by the third spring section 20.

[0109] Before the hand-held device 1 is used accordingly, the force acting on the cartridge 2 may have been adjusted, preferably at the factory, by turning the adjustment part 11. This results in a certain degree of relative movement between the pressure part 9, specifically the coupling part 10, and the eccentric 14. In order to be able to absorb this movement, at least to a certain degree, the ob-long hole 46 is designed to be larger in the vertical direction than the corresponding dimensions of the eccentric 14.

[0110] In particular at the factory or during an adjustment process, it is also possible to trigger the release of substance simply by acting on the reset part 17. For this purpose, the actuating projection 28 can be pressed into the housing 6 with regard to the design of the exemplary embodiment in detail. Starting from a position as shown in Figure 16 in terms of the second spring section 19 in the solid line, with the first loading extension 21 shown next to it in dashed lines, when the first loading extension 21 is pressed in by means of an auxiliary pro- jection 42 formed on the reset part, it is moved to such an extent that the valve flap 15 that is moved such that, as a result, the valve flap 15 releases the holding element 16 and the cartridge 2 will correspondingly move into the dispensing position.List of Reference Symbols1 hand-held device 29 supporting projection2 cartridge 30 formation3 valve 31 support part4 valve seat 32 stop projection5 spray nozzle 33 counter stop6 housing 34 intermediate part7 mouthpiece 35 securing information8 mouthpiece closure cap 36 securing counter-projection9 pressure part 37 ribs10 coupling part 38 projection11 adjustment part 39 spacer spring12 spring 40 overhanging edge13 coupling arm 41 snap-in foot14 eccentric 42 auxiliary projection15 valve flap 43 counter16 holding part 44 underside17 reset part 45 holding arm18 first spring section 46 oblong hole19 second spring section 47 support arms20 third spring section 48 bearing opening21 first loading extension 49 bearing pin22 second loading extension 50 external thread23 stop part 51 internal thread24 blocking projection25 blocking counter projection a distance26 first housing bottom a' distance27 second housing bottom b distance28 actuating projectionAl first pivoting axisAl second pivoting axisF actuating surfaceR1 first pivoting directionR2 second pivoting directionKR force resultantF actuating surfaceU transmission part

Claims

Claims1. Hand-held device (1) for dispensing a pharmaceutical substance in portions, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2), accommodated in the housing (6) and containing the substance, the housing (6) having a mouthpiece (7) and the cartridge (2) is movably arranged between a rest position and a dispensing position, further with a pressure part (9) moveably arranged in the housing (6) to be moved between an initial position and a clamping position to build up a force for moving the cartridge (2) between the rest position and the dispensing position, and with a valve flap (15) that can be moved, by a user inhaling on the mouthpiece (7), between a starting position and a pivoted position, characterized in that a holding part (16) is provided for that can be moved between a holding position and a release position, which in the holding position prevents the movement of the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position, that the valve flap (15) in the starting position blocks the movement of the holding part (16) in the release position, the holding part (16) being moved by the cartridge (2) into the release position when the valve flap (15) moves into the pivoted position, the force acting on the cartridge (2) in the clamping position being reduced thereby.

2. Hand-held device (1) for dispensing a pharmaceutical substance in portions, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2) arranged within the housing (6), the cartridge (2) containing the substance, wherein the housing (6) has a mouthpiece (7) and further being provided in the housing (6), a movably arranged pressure part (9), a holding part (16) movable between a holding position in which movement of the cartridge (2) is prevented and a release position, anda valve flap (15) movable between a starting position and a pivoted position, the movement being by the application of negative air pressure, the cartridge (2) being arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, the pressure part (9) being displaceable between an initial position and a clamping position while a force is built up which serves to move the cartridge (2), wherein the valve flap (15) by inhaling of a user on the mouthpiece (7) is moved from the starting position, in which the valve flap (15) blocks the movement of the holding part (16) in its holding position, into the pivoted position in which the movement of the holding part ( 16) is released to be moved, and upon moving of the valve flap (15) into the pivoted position, the holding part (16) is moved by the cartridge (2) into the release position, with the force acting on the cartridge (6) in the clamped position being reduced.

3. Hand-held device (1) for dispensing a pharmaceutical substance in portions, preferably according to one of the preceding claims, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2) contained in the housing (6), the cartridge (2) containing the substance, the housing (6) having a mouthpiece (7) and the cartridge (2) is arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, further in the housing (6) being a pressure part (9) acting on the cartridge (2) which, while building up a force serving to move the cartridge (2), is moved from an initial position into a clamping position, and a holding part (16) which can be moved between a holding position and a release position, the holding part (16), in the holding position, preventing the movement of the cartridge (2) and is able to be moved by the cartridge (2) in the release position, upon a user inhaling on the mouthpiece (7) tobuild up a negative pressure, characterized in that the force acting in the clamping position is adjustable.

4. Hand-held device (1) for dispensing a pharmaceutical substance in portions, preferably according to one of the preceding claims, with a housing (6) and a cartridge (2) contained in the housing (6), the cartridge (2) containing the substance, the cartridge (2) being arranged to be movable between a rest position and a dispensing position, with a pressure part (9) and a holding part (16) being further provided in the housing (6), the pressure part (9) being arranged to be movable relative to the housing (6) and the cartridge (2) in order to generate a force required to move the cartridge (2) from the rest position into the dispensing position, the holding part (16) can be displaced between a holding position, a movement of the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position is prevented, and a release position in which movement of the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position is released, wherein the pressure part (9) in the clamping position exerts the force required to move the cartridge (2) into the dispensing position by means of an elastically deformed transmission part (U) acting between the pressure part (9) and the cartridge (2), an effective distance (a) between the pressure part (9) and the cartridge (2) for adjusting a size the force being adjustable.

5. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 1 or 2, characterized in that a reset part (17) is provided for resetting the valve flap (15) in the starting position.

6. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 3 or 4, characterized in that a reset part (17) is provided for resetting the holding part into the holding position.

7. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the valve flap (15) can be pivoted about a second pivot axis (A2).

8. Hand-held device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding part (16) can be pivoted about a first pivoting axis (Al).

9. Hand-held device according to claim 8, characterized in that the holding part (16) has a predetermined first pivoting direction (Rl) with regard to a movement from the holding position into the release position.

10. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 5 to 9, characterized in that the reset part (17) is designed as a reset spring.

11. Hand-held device according to claim 10, characterized in that the reset part (17) has a first spring section (18) which cooperates with the housing (6) to reset the reset part (17).

12. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the reset part (17) has a second spring section (19) which cooperates with the valve flap (15) to reset the valve flap (15).

13. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the reset part (17) has a third spring section (20) which cooperates with the holding part (16) to reset the holding part (16).

14. Hand-held device tool according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge (2) has a stop part (23).

15. Hand-held device according to claim 14, characterized in that the cartridge (2) is supported by means of the stop part (23) in the clamping position on the holding part (16) located in the holding position.

16. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 14 or 15, characterized in that the stop part (23) runs angled with respect to a direction of movement of the cartridge (2).

17. Hand-held device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure part (9) exerts the force on the cartridge (2) by means of an elastically deformed transmission part (U).

18. Hand-held device according to claim 17, characterized in that the transmission part is a spring (12).

19. Hand-held device according to claim 18, characterized in that the spring (12) acts between the pressure part (9) and a support part (31) supported on the cartridge (2).

20. Hand-held device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the force can be adjusted by changing an effective distance (a) between the pressure part (9) and the cartridge (2).

21. Hand-held device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pressure part (9) consists of a coupling part (10) and an adjustment part (11).

22. Hand-held device according to claim 21, characterized in that the adjustment part (11) is displaceable relative to the coupling part (10) for setting the force acting in the clamped position.

23. Hand-held device according to claim 22, characterized in that the adjust- ment part (11) can be screw-displaced by means of thread formations (49,50) formed on the coupling part (10) and the adjustment part (11).

24. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 18 to 23, characterized in that the spring (12) is prestressed in the initial position.

25. Hand-held device according to one of the claims 21 to 24, characterized in that the force can be adjusted by changing an effective distance (a) between the adjustment part (11) and a support part (31).

Images