Mist inhaler device

Abstract

To solve the problems of a liquid leakage of an electronic vaporizing inhaler, the problems including a first disadvantage in which liquid can leak into the electronic component, which can cause serious damage to the device, and a second disadvantage in which the liquid can leak into the electronic vaporizing inhaler's mouthpiece and a user may inhale unvaporized liquid.SOLUTION: A mist inhaler device (200) for generating mist for inhalation by a user comprises a mist generator device (201) and a driver device (202). The driver device (202) is configured to drive the mist generator device (201) at an optimum frequency to maximize the efficiency of mist generation by the mist generator device (201).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to mist inhalers, and more particularly to ultrasonic mist inhalers for atomizing a liquid containing a therapeutic agent for inhalation by a user. [Background technology]

[0002] Mist inhalers are used to generate a mist or vapor for a user to inhale. The mist can contain a drug or pharmaceutical agent that is inhaled and absorbed into the user's bloodstream.

[0003] In particular, mist inhalers, or electronic vaporizers, have become popular among smokers who want to satisfy their nicotine cravings without the tar and other harsh chemicals associated with traditional cigarettes. Electronic vaporizers may contain liquid nicotine, which is typically a mixture of nicotine oil, solvents, water, and often flavorings. When a user inhales into an electronic vaporizer, the liquid nicotine is drawn into the vaporizer, where it is heated and turned into a vapor. When the user inhales into an electronic vaporizer, the nicotine-containing vapor is inhaled. Such electronic vaporizers may have medical purposes.

[0004] Electronic vaporizers and other vaporizers typically have similar designs. Most electronic vaporizers include a liquid nicotine reservoir and an inner membrane, typically cotton, that holds the liquid nicotine in place and prevents it from leaking from the reservoir. Nevertheless, these devices are still prone to leaks because there is no barrier to prevent the liquid from flowing from the membrane to the mouthpiece. Leakage in electronic vaporizers is problematic for several reasons. First, liquid can leak onto electronic components, potentially causing serious damage to the device. Second, liquid can leak into the electronic vaporizer's mouthpiece, potentially resulting in the user inhaling unvaporized liquid.

[0005] Electronic vaporizers are also known for providing inconsistent doses between puffs. The aforementioned leaks are one cause of inconsistent dosing, as the membrane can become oversaturated or undersaturated near the vaporizer. If the membrane is oversaturated, the user may experience a stronger vapor than desired; if the membrane is undersaturated, the user may experience a weaker vapor than desired. A slight change in the user's puff strength can result in a stronger or weaker dose. Inconsistent dosing, along with leaks, can lead to a faster consumption of the vaporizing liquid.

[0006] Furthermore, conventional electronic vaporizers tend to rely on a metal heating element configured to heat the liquid within the e-cigarette to a high temperature, thereby vaporizing the inhalable liquid. A problem with conventional electronic vaporizers is that the metal can burn, which can then be inhaled along with the burned liquid. Additionally, some people dislike the burnt smell of the heated liquid.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need in the art for an improved mist inhaler that seeks to address at least some of the problems described herein. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to one aspect, there is provided a mist inhaler for generating a mist for inhalation by a user, the apparatus comprising: Mist generating devices, including: An elongated mist generating housing having an air inlet port and a mist outlet port a liquid chamber provided within the mist generating housing for containing the liquid to be atomized; Ultrasonic treatment chamber installed within the mist generating housing a capillary element extending between the liquid chamber and the ultrasonic chamber, such that a first portion of the capillary element is in the liquid chamber and a second portion of the capillary element is in the ultrasonic chamber; 10. The ultrasonic treatment device of claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic transducer has a generally planar atomizing surface disposed within the sonication chamber, the ultrasonic transducer being mounted within the mist-generating housing such that the plane of the atomizing surface is substantially parallel to the longitudinal length of the mist-generating housing, and wherein a portion of the second portion of the capillary element overlaps a portion of the atomizing surface, and the ultrasonic transducer is configured to vibrate the atomizing surface to atomize the liquid carried by the second portion of the capillary element and produce a mist of atomized liquid and air within the sonication chamber. 1. A mist inhalation device comprising an airflow arrangement providing an air flow path between an air inlet port, an ultrasonic treatment chamber and said mist outlet port, from which a user draws air through the inlet port, through the ultrasonic treatment chamber and out through the mist outlet port, and mist generated in the ultrasonic treatment chamber is carried by the air through the mist outlet port for inhalation by the user, further comprising: Driver device containing: battery An AC driver converts the voltage from the battery into an AC drive signal of a specified frequency to drive the ultrasonic transducer.

[0009] A real power monitoring device for monitoring the real power used by an ultrasonic transducer when the ultrasonic transducer is driven by an AC drive signal, the real power monitoring device providing a monitor signal indicative of the real power used by the ultrasonic transducer. A processor for controlling the AC drive and receiving monitoring signals from the active power monitoring equipment Memory storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: A. Controlling the AC drive to output an AC drive signal to the ultrasonic transducer at a predetermined sweep frequency B. Calculate the active power being used by the ultrasonic transducer based on the monitoring signal C. Controlling the AC driver to modulate the AC drive signal to maximize the effective power used by the ultrasonic transducer D. Save in memory a record of the maximum effective power used by the ultrasonic transducer and the sweep frequency of the AC drive signal. E. Repeat steps A-D a predetermined number of times, with the sweep frequency increasing with each iteration, so that after a predetermined number of iterations, the sweep frequency increases from the sweep start frequency to the sweep end frequency. F. From the records stored in memory, identify the optimum frequency of the AC drive signal, which is the sweep frequency of the AC drive signal at which the greatest effective power is used by the ultrasonic transducer. G. Control the AC drive to output an AC drive signal at an optimal frequency to the ultrasonic transducer, thereby driving the ultrasonic transducer to atomize the liquid.

[0010] In some examples, the driver device is releasably attached to the mist generating device such that the driver device is separable from the mist generating device.

[0011] According to another aspect, there is provided a mist generating device incorporating: An elongated mist generating housing having an air inlet port and a mist outlet port a liquid chamber provided within the mist generating housing for containing the liquid to be atomized; Ultrasonic treatment chamber installed within the mist generating housing a capillary element extending between the liquid chamber and the ultrasonic chamber, such that a first portion of the capillary element is in the liquid chamber and a second portion of the capillary element is in the ultrasonic chamber; 10. The ultrasonic treatment device of claim 1, wherein the ultrasonic transducer has a generally planar atomizing surface disposed within the sonication chamber, the ultrasonic transducer being mounted within the mist-generating housing such that the plane of the atomizing surface is substantially parallel to the longitudinal length of the mist-generating housing, and wherein a portion of the second portion of the capillary element overlaps a portion of the atomizing surface, and the ultrasonic transducer is configured to vibrate the atomizing surface to atomize the liquid carried by the second portion of the capillary element and produce a mist of atomized liquid and air within the sonication chamber. an air flow arrangement providing an air flow path between the air inlet port, the ultrasonic treatment chamber, and the air outlet port such that a user inhaling at the mist outlet port will inhale air through the inlet port, through the ultrasonic treatment chamber, and out through the mist outlet port; and mist generated in the ultrasonic treatment chamber is carried by air out through the mist outlet port for inhalation by the user. In some examples, the mist generating device further comprises a transducer holder held within the mist generating housing, the transducer element holding an ultrasonic transducer, the transducer holder holding a second portion of the capillary element overlying a portion of the atomizing surface, and a partition providing a barrier between the liquid chamber and the ultrasonic irradiation chamber, the partition defining a capillary opening through which a portion of the first portion of the capillary element extends.

[0012] In some examples, the transducer holder is a liquid silicone rubber.

[0013] In some examples, the liquid silicone rubber has a hardness of Shore A60.

[0014] In some examples, the capillary opening is an elongated slot having a width of 0.2 mm-0.4 mm.

[0015] In some instances, the capillary element is generally planar with a first portion having a generally rectangular shape and a second portion having a partially circular shape.

[0016] In some examples, the capillary element has a thickness of substantially 0.28 mm.

[0017] In some examples, the capillary element is comprised of a first portion and a second portion that are superimposed on one another such that the capillary element has two layers.

[0018] In some examples, the capillary elements are at least 75% bamboo fiber.

[0019] In some instances, the capillary elements are 100% bamboo fiber.

[0020] In some examples, the air flow arrangement is configured to redirect the air flow along the air flow path as the air flow passes into the ultrasonic treatment chamber so that the air flow is substantially perpendicular to the atomizing surface of the ultrasonic transducer.

[0021] In some instances, the air flow turn is substantially 90 degrees.

[0022] In some examples, the air flow arrangement provides an air flow path having an average cross-sectional area of substantially 11.5 mm2.

[0023] In some examples, the mist generating device includes: at least one absorbent element disposed adjacent to the mist exit port to absorb liquid at the mist exit port, hi some examples, each absorbent element is bamboo fiber.

[0024] In some examples, the mist-generating housing is at least partially a heterophasic copolymer.

[0025] In some examples, the heterophasic copolymer is polypropylene.

[0026] In some examples, the ultrasonic transducer is circular and has a diameter of substantially 16 mm.

[0027] In some examples, the liquid chamber contains a liquid having a kinematic viscosity between 1.05 Pascal-seconds and 1.412 Pascal-seconds and a liquid density between 1.1 g / ml and 1.3 g / ml.

[0028] In some examples, the liquid chamber comprises a nicotine levulinate salt in a 1:1 molar ratio.

[0029] In some examples, the mist generating device further comprises an identification device provided in the mist generating housing, the identification device comprising an integrated circuit having a memory that stores a unique identifier of the mist generating device, and an electrical connection that provides an electronic interface for communicating with the integrated circuit.

[0030] In some examples, the memory of the integrated circuit stores a record of the state of the mist generating device indicating at least one of historical use of the mist generating device or the volume of liquid in the liquid chamber.

[0031] According to one aspect, there is provided a driver device for a mist inhaler, the device comprising: battery An AC driver that converts the voltage from the battery into an AC drive signal of a predetermined frequency to drive the ultrasonic transducer. A real power monitoring device for monitoring the real power used by an ultrasonic transducer when the ultrasonic transducer is driven by an AC drive signal, the real power monitoring device providing a monitor signal indicative of the real power used by the ultrasonic transducer. A processor for controlling the AC drive and receiving monitoring signals from the active power monitoring equipment Memory storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: A. Controlling the AC drive to output an AC drive signal to the ultrasonic transducer at a predetermined sweep frequency B. Calculate the active power being used by the ultrasonic transducer based on the monitoring signal C. Controlling the AC driver to modulate the AC drive signal to maximize the effective power used by the ultrasonic transducer D. Save in memory a record of the maximum effective power used by the ultrasonic transducer and the sweep frequency of the AC drive signal. E. Repeat steps A-D a predetermined number of times, with the sweep frequency increasing with each iteration, so that after a predetermined number of iterations, the sweep frequency increases from the sweep start frequency to the sweep end frequency. F. From the records stored in memory, identify the optimum frequency of the AC drive signal, which is the sweep frequency of the AC drive signal at which the greatest effective power is used by the ultrasonic transducer. G. Control the AC drive to output an AC drive signal at an optimal frequency to the ultrasonic transducer, thereby driving the ultrasonic transducer to atomize the liquid.

[0032] In some examples, the active power monitoring device includes a current sensing device for sensing a drive current of an AC drive signal that drives the ultrasonic transducer, and the active power monitoring device provides a monitor signal indicative of the sensed drive current.

[0033] In some examples, the current sensing device includes an analog-to-digital converter that converts the sensed drive current into a digital signal for processing by a processor.

[0034] In some examples, the memory stores a memory that, when executed by the processor, instructs the processor to repeat steps AD where the sweep frequency increases from a sweep start frequency of 2900 kHz to a sweep end frequency of 2960 kHz.

[0035] In some examples, the memory stores a memory that, when executed by the processor, instructs the processor to repeat steps AD where the sweep frequency increases from a sweep start frequency of 2900 kHz to a sweep end frequency of 3100 kHz.

[0036] In some examples, the memory stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: in step G, control the AC drive to output an AC drive signal to the ultrasonic transducer at a frequency shifted by a predetermined shift amount from the optimal frequency.

[0037] In some examples, the predetermined shift amount is between 1-10% of the optimal frequency.

[0038] In some examples, the battery is a 3.7V DC Li-Po battery.

[0039] In some examples, the driver device further comprises a pressure sensor for sensing air flow along a driver device flow path extending through the driver device.

[0040] In some examples, the driver device further comprises a wireless communication system in communication with the processor, the wireless communication system configured to transmit and receive data between the driver device and the computing device.

[0041] In some examples, the driver device further comprises a driver device housing, at least a portion of which is metal, the driver device housing housing housing the battery, the processor, the memory, the active power monitoring device and the AC drive, and the driver device housing includes a recess for receiving and holding a portion of the mist generating device.

[0042] In some examples, the AC drive modulates the AC drive signal by pulse width modulation to maximize the effective power being used by the ultrasonic transducer.

[0043] It should be noted that the expression "mist" as used in the following disclosure means that the liquid is not heated, as is usually done in conventional inhalers known from the prior art: in fact, conventional inhalers use a heating element to heat the liquid above its boiling temperature to generate vapor, which is different from a mist.

[0044] Indeed, when a liquid is sonicated at high intensity, the sound waves propagating through the liquid medium alternate between high-pressure (compression) and low-pressure (dilution) cycles at different speeds depending on the frequency. During the low-pressure cycle, high-intensity ultrasound creates tiny vacuum bubbles or voids in the liquid. When these bubbles reach a volume where they cannot absorb the energy, they violently collapse during the high-pressure cycle. This phenomenon is called cavitation. Extremely high local pressures are generated at this time. In cavitation, broken capillary waves are generated, breaking the liquid's surface tension and creating tiny droplets that are rapidly released into the air as a mist.

[0045] The cavitation phenomenon will be explained in more detail below.

[0046] When a liquid is atomized by ultrasonic vibration, minute bubbles are generated in the liquid.

[0047] The generation of bubbles is a process of cavity formation caused by negative pressure due to strong ultrasonic waves generated by means of ultrasonic vibrations.

[0048] During the positive pressure cycle, the size of the cavities becomes relatively small and negligible, and the high intensity ultrasound leads to rapid growth of the cavities.

[0049] Ultrasound, like other sound waves, consists of compression and expansion cycles. When in contact with a liquid, the compression cycle exerts positive pressure on the liquid, pushing the molecules together, while the expansion cycle exerts negative pressure, pushing the molecules apart.

[0050] Intense ultrasound creates regions of positive and negative pressure. In the negative pressure, cavities can form and grow. When the cavities reach a critical size, they collapse.

[0051] The amount of negative pressure required varies depending on the type and purity of the liquid. High-purity liquids have such high tensile strength that commercial ultrasonic generators cannot generate sufficient negative pressure to form cavities. For example, pure water requires a negative pressure of over 1,000 atmospheres, while even the most powerful ultrasonic generators can only generate a negative pressure of around 50 atmospheres. The tensile strength of a liquid is reduced by gas trapped in the gaps between liquid particles. This effect is similar to the strength loss caused by cracks in solid materials. When a gas-filled gap is subjected to a cycle of sonic negative pressure, the pressure drop causes the gas in the gap to expand, releasing tiny bubbles into the solution.

[0052] However, bubbles exposed to ultrasound continue to absorb energy by alternating cycles of compression and expansion of the sound waves. This causes the bubbles to grow and shrink repeatedly, maintaining a dynamic balance between the void inside the bubble and the liquid outside. Ultrasound can also cause the size of the bubbles to change. In some cases, the average size of the bubbles may also increase.

[0053] The growth of the cavity depends on the sound intensity. High-intensity ultrasound can rapidly expand the cavity during the negative pressure cycle, leaving the cavity with no opportunity to contract during the positive pressure cycle. In this way, the cavity can grow rapidly in one sound wave cycle.

[0054] For low-intensity ultrasound, the size of the cavity oscillates in phase with the expansion and compression cycles. The surface of the cavity created by low-intensity ultrasound is slightly larger during the expansion cycle than during the compression cycle. Because the amount of gas entering and leaving the cavity depends on the surface area, diffusion into the cavity during the expansion cycle is slightly greater than diffusion during the compression cycle. This means that with each sound cycle, the cavity expands slightly more than it contracts. Over time, the cavity slowly grows larger.

[0055] It has been found that the growing cavities eventually reach a critical size at which they most efficiently absorb ultrasonic energy. This critical size depends on the frequency of the ultrasound. When high-intensity ultrasound causes cavities to grow very quickly, they can no longer efficiently absorb energy from the ultrasound. Without this energy input, the cavities can no longer sustain themselves. Liquid surges in and the cavities collapse due to a nonlinear response.

[0056] The energy released by the implosion breaks the liquid down into tiny particles that are dispersed into the air as a mist.

[0057] The equations that describe the above nonlinear response phenomenon can be expressed as the Rayleigh-Plesset equations, which can be derived from the Navier-Stokes equations used in fluid mechanics.

[0058] Our approach was to rewrite the "Rayleigh-Plesset" equation, where the bubble volume V is a dynamic parameter and the physics describing dissipation is identical to that used in the more classical form, where the radius is a dynamic parameter.

[0059] This equation is derived as follows:

[0060]

number

[0061] In ultrasonic atomizing inhalers, the liquid has a kinematic viscosity between 1.05 Pascal-seconds and 1.412 Pascal-seconds.

[0062] By solving the above equations using viscosity, density, and the desired target bubble volume of the liquid spray into air as appropriate parameters, it has been found that a frequency range of 2.8 MHz to 3.2 MHz for a liquid viscosity range of 1.05 Pascal-second and 1.412 Pascal-second will produce a bubble volume of approximately 0.25 microns to 0.5 microns.

[0063] The process of ultrasonic cavitation has a significant impact on the nicotine concentration in the generated mist.

[0064] Since no heating element is used, the heating element does not burn and the effects of sidestream smoke can be reduced.

[0065] In some examples, the liquid comprises 57-70% (w / w) vegetable glycerin and 30-43% (w / w) propylene glycol, which comprises nicotine and optionally flavoring.

[0066] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, a capillary element may extend between the sonication chamber and the liquid chamber.

[0067] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the capillary element is a material that is at least partially bamboo fiber.

[0068] The capillary elements allow for high absorption capacity, high absorption rate, as well as high liquid retention.

[0069] The inherent properties of the proposed material used for the capillary tube were found to have a significant impact on the efficient functioning of the ultrasonic mist inhaler.

[0070] Furthermore, the unique properties of this material include good moisture absorption while maintaining good moisture permeability, which allows the sucked liquid to penetrate the capillaries efficiently and the high water absorption allows it to hold a large amount of liquid, allowing the ultrasonic mist inhaler to be used for a longer period of time compared to other products on the market.

[0071] Another major benefit of using bamboo fibre is that it has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-odour properties thanks to the naturally occurring antibacterial biological agent 'kun' present in bamboo fibre, making it suitable for medical use.

[0072] This unique property of bamboo fiber has been verified through numerical analysis regarding the advantages of bamboo fiber in ultrasonic processing.

[0073] The following formula has been tested on bamboo fiber material for use as a capillary element and on other materials such as cotton, paper, or other fiber strands, demonstrating that bamboo fiber has far superior properties for use in ultrasonic processing:

[0074]

number

[0075]

number

[0076] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the capillary element may be made of a material that is at least partially bamboo fiber.

[0077] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the material of the capillary element can be 100% bamboo fiber.

[0078] Extensive testing has concluded that 100% pure bamboo fiber is the best choice for ultrasonic processing.

[0079] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the material of the capillary element may be at least 75% bamboo fiber and optionally 25% cotton.

[0080] Capillary elements made from 100% pure bamboo fiber or a high percentage of bamboo fiber not only exhibit high absorption capacity but also have improved fluid permeability, making them the optimal choice for ultrasonic mist inhaler applications.

[0081] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the capillary element may have a flat shape.

[0082] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the capillary element may be comprised of a central portion and a peripheral portion.

[0083] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the peripheral portion may have an L-shaped cross section extending towards the liquid chamber.

[0084] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the central portion may have a U-shaped cross section extending to the ultrasonic irradiation chamber.

[0085] In one example of an ultrasonic mist inhaler, the liquid received in the liquid chamber comprises 57-70% (w / w) vegetable glycerin and 30-43% (w / w) propylene glycol, and the propylene glycol contains nicotine and flavoring.

[0086] Ultrasonic mist inhalers or personal ultrasonic misting devices include: A liquid reservoir structure including a liquid chamber or cartridge adapted to receive the liquid to be atomized. an ultrasonic irradiation chamber in fluid communication with the liquid chamber or cartridge; The liquid received in the liquid chamber comprises 57-70% (w / w) vegetable glycerin and 30-43% (w / w) propylene glycol, the propylene glycol containing nicotine and flavoring. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0087] In order that the invention may be more readily understood, embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the components of an ultrasonic mist inhaler. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the components of the inhaler liquid reservoir structure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of components of an inhaler liquid reservoir structure. [Figure 4A]FIG. 4A is an isometric view of the airflow member of the inhaler liquid reservoir structure according to FIGS. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the air blowing member shown in FIG. 4A. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a piezoelectric transducer modeled as an RLC circuit. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a graph of frequency versus logarithmic impedance for an RLC circuit. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a graph of frequency versus logarithmic impedance illustrating the inductive and capacitive regions of operation of a piezoelectric transducer. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the operation of the frequency controller. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view of a mist inhaler of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a mist inhaler of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the mist generating device of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the mist generating device of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a mist generating device of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a transducer holder of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a transducer holder of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a capillary element of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a capillary element of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a transducer holder of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a transducer holder of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a housing of the present disclosure. [Figure 21]FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an absorbent element of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a housing of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a housing of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an absorbent element of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a housing of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a housing of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a housing of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a schematic perspective view of a circuit board of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a schematic perspective view of a circuit board of the present disclosure. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a mist generating device of the present disclosure. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a mist generating device of the present disclosure. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view showing the mist generating device of the present disclosure. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view showing the mist generating device of the present disclosure. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional view showing the mist generating device of the present disclosure. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a perspective exploded perspective view of a driver device of the present disclosure. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a perspective view showing a portion of a driver apparatus of the present disclosure. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a perspective view showing a portion of a driver device of the present disclosure. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a perspective view showing a portion of a driver apparatus of the present disclosure. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a perspective view showing a portion of a driver apparatus of the present disclosure. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is a perspective view showing a portion of a driver device of the present disclosure. [Figure 41] FIG. 41 is a perspective view showing a portion of a driver apparatus of the present disclosure. [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is a perspective view showing a portion of a driver apparatus of the present disclosure. [Figure 43] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of an end cap of a driver device of the present disclosure. [Figure 44] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the housing of the driver device of the present disclosure. [Figure 45] FIG. 45 is a graph showing the results of EMC testing on the mist inhaler of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0088] Detailed Description Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, according to standard practice in the industry, various features have not been drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of various features may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion.

[0089] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the provided subject matter. Specific examples of components, concentrations, applications, and arrangements are described below to simplify the disclosure. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, the attachment of a first feature and a second feature in the following description may include embodiments in which the first feature and the second feature are attached in direct contact, or may include embodiments in which additional features may be disposed between the first feature and the second feature such that the first feature and the second feature do not need to be in direct contact. Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and / or letters in various examples. This repetition is for simplicity and clarity and does not, in itself, dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or configurations discussed.

[0090] The following disclosure describes representative examples, each of which may be considered an embodiment, and in this disclosure, references to "examples" may be changed to "embodiments."

[0091] Some portions of this disclosure are directed to electronic vaporizer inhalers. However, other examples are contemplated, such as inhalers for therapeutic drugs, medications, and herbal supplements. Furthermore, the device can be packaged to resemble an object rather than a cigarette. For example, devices resembling other smoking devices, such as pipes, hookahs, slides, or other objects unrelated to smoking are contemplated.

[0092] Ultrasonic mist inhalers can be either disposable or reusable. As used herein, the term "reusable" means that the energy storage device is rechargeable or replaceable, or that the liquid can be replenished either by refilling or replacing the liquid reservoir structure. Alternatively, in some instances, a reusable electronic device can both be rechargeable and refilled with liquid.

[0093] Conventional electronic vaporizers tend to rely on inducing high temperatures in metal components configured to heat the liquid within the inhaler, thus vaporizing the liquid for inhalation. The liquid typically contains nicotine and flavorings blended in a propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) solution, which are vaporized via the heating components at high temperatures. A problem with conventional inhalers is the potential for the metal to burn, which can then be inhaled along with the burnt liquid. Additionally, some people dislike the burnt smell and taste of the heated liquid.

[0094] 1 to 4 are diagrams showing an example of an ultrasonic aspirator that constitutes an ultrasonic treatment chamber.

[0095] FIG. 1 illustrates a disposable ultrasonic mist inhaler 100. As can be seen from FIG. 1, the ultrasonic mist inhaler 100 has a cylindrical body with a relatively long length compared to its diameter. In terms of shape and appearance, the ultrasonic mist inhaler 100 is designed to mimic the appearance of a typical cigarette. For example, the inhaler may include a first section 101 that primarily simulates the tobacco rod portion of a cigarette, and a second section 102 that primarily simulates the filter. In a disposable example, the first and second sections are single, but separable, sections of the device. The designations first section 101 and second section 102 are used for convenience to distinguish between the components primarily contained in each section.

[0096] As can be seen from Figure 1, the ultrasonic mist inhaler is composed of a mouthpiece 1, a reservoir structure 2, and a casing 3. A first part 101 constitutes the casing 3, and a second part 102 constitutes the mouthpiece 1 and the reservoir structure 2.

[0097] The first portion 101 contains the source energy.

[0098] The electrical storage device 30 provides power to the ultrasonic mist inhaler 100. The electrical storage device 30 can be, but is not limited to, a battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, an alkaline battery, a zinc-carbon battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, or a nickel-cadmium battery, a supercapacitor, or a combination thereof. In a disposable example, the electrical storage device 30 is not rechargeable, while in a reusable example, the electrical storage device 30 would be selected to be rechargeable. In a disposable example, the electrical storage device 30 is primarily selected to provide a constant voltage over the life of the inhaler 100; otherwise, the performance of the inhaler would deteriorate over time. Preferred electrical storage devices capable of providing a constant voltage output over the life of the device include lithium-ion batteries and lithium polymer batteries.

[0099] The electrical storage device 30 has a first end 30a, which generally corresponds to a positive terminal, and a second end 30b, which generally corresponds to a negative terminal, the negative terminal extending to the first end 30a.

[0100] Because the electrical storage device 30 is located in the first portion 101 and the reservoir structure 2 is located in the second portion 102, a joint is required to provide electrical communication between those components. In the present invention, electrical communication is established using at least electrodes or probes that are compressed together when the first portion 101 is fastened to the second portion 102.

[0101] In this example, the power storage device 30 is rechargeable so that it can be reused. The casing 3 is provided with a charging port 32.

[0102] The integrated circuit 4 has a proximal end 4a and a distal end 4b. A positive terminal at the first end 30a of the electrical storage device 30 is in electrical communication with the positive lead of the flexible integrated circuit 4. A negative terminal at the second end 30b of the electrical storage device 30 is in electrical communication with the negative lead of the integrated circuit 4. The distal end 4b of the integrated circuit 4 includes a microprocessor. The microprocessor is configured to process data from the sensor, control the lights, direct the ultrasonic vibrations 5 in the second portion 102 to flow current, and terminate the flow of current after a preprogrammed time.

[0103] The sensor detects when the ultrasonic mist inhaler 100 is being used (when a user inhales on the inhaler) and activates the microprocessor. The sensor can be selected to detect changes in pressure, airflow, or vibration. In one example, the sensor is a pressure sensor. In digital devices, the sensor takes continuous readings, and as a result, digital sensors must continuously draw current, but the amount is small and the overall battery life will be negligibly affected.

[0104] In some examples, the integrated circuit 4 comprises an H-bridge that may be formed by four MOSFETs to convert direct current to alternating current at high frequency.

[0105] 2 and 3, there is shown an illustration of an example liquid reservoir structure 2. The liquid reservoir structure 2 comprises a liquid chamber 21 adapted to receive the liquid to be atomized, and an ultrasonic treatment chamber 22 in fluid communication with the liquid chamber 21.

[0106] In the example shown, the liquid reservoir structure 2 comprises an intake channel 20 that provides an air passage from the sonication chamber 22 to the surroundings.

[0107] As an example of the sensor location, the sensor may be located in the ultrasound irradiation chamber 22 .

[0108] The intake channel 20 has a cone portion 20a and an inner container 20b.

[0109] As depicted in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the intake channel 20 further includes an air flow member 27 for providing air flow from the surroundings to the sonication chamber 22.

[0110] The airflow member 27 has an integrally formed airflow bridge 27a and airflow duct 27b, the airflow bridge 27a having two airway openings 27a' that form part of the inhalation channel 20, and the airflow duct 27b extending from the airflow bridge 27a into the ultrasonic treatment chamber 22 to provide airflow from the surroundings to the ultrasonic treatment chamber.

[0111] The airflow bridge 27a cooperates with the cone element 20a at the second diameter 20a2.

[0112] The airflow bridge 27a has two opposing peripheral openings 27a'' that feed the airflow into the airflow duct 27b.

[0113] The cooperation of the airflow bridge 27a with the frustoconical element 20a is such that two opposing peripheral openings 27a'' cooperate with complementary openings 20a'' in the frustoconical element 20a. will be placed in.

[0114] The nozzle 1 and the cone portion 20a are spaced apart in the radial direction, with an airflow chamber 28 disposed therebetween.

[0115] As depicted in Figures 1 and 2, the mouthpiece 1 has two opposing peripheral openings 1''.

[0116] The peripheral openings 27 a ″, 20 a ″, 1 ″ of the airflow bridge 27 a, the frustoconical element 20 a and the mouthpiece 1 provide maximum airflow directly into the sonication chamber 22 .

[0117] Cone element 20a includes an internal passage aligned in a similar direction as intake channel 20, with first diameter 20a1 being smaller than second diameter 20a2, such that the internal passage decreases in diameter across cone element 20a.

[0118] The cone element 20a is arranged in alignment with the means of ultrasonic vibration 5 and the capillary element 7, with a first diameter 20a1 communicating with the internal duct 11 of the mouthpiece 1 and a second diameter 20a2 communicating with the internal container 20b.

[0119] The inner container 20b has an inner wall that separates the ultrasonic wave irradiation chamber 22 and the liquid chamber 21.

[0120] The liquid reservoir structure 2 has an outer container 20c that defines the outer wall of the liquid chamber 21.

[0121] The inner container 20b and the outer container 20c are the inner and outer walls of the liquid chamber 21, respectively.

[0122] The liquid reservoir structure 2 is disposed between the nozzle 1 and the casing 3 and is detachable from the nozzle 1 and the casing 3.

[0123] The liquid reservoir structure 2 and the mouthpiece 1 or casing 3 may include complementary arrangements for engaging with each other; further, such complementary arrangements may include any of a bayonet-type arrangement; a threaded engagement arrangement; a magnetic arrangement; or a friction fit arrangement, wherein the liquid reservoir structure 2 includes a portion of the arrangement and the mouthpiece 1 or casing 3 includes a complementary portion of the arrangement.

[0124] In the reusable version, the components are substantially the same. The difference between the reusable version and the disposable version is the accommodation made for replacing the liquid reservoir structure 2.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 3, the liquid chamber 21 has a top wall 23 and a bottom wall 25 that enclose the inner and outer containers 20b and 20c of the liquid chamber 21.

[0126] The capillary element 7 is disposed between the first portion 20b1 and the second portion 20b2 of the inner container 20b.

[0127] The capillary element 7 has a flat shape that extends from the ultrasound irradiation chamber to the liquid chamber.

[0128] As depicted in FIG. 2 or 3, the capillary element 7 is composed of a U-shaped central portion 7a and an L-shaped peripheral portion 7b.

[0129] The L-shaped portion 7b extends along the bottom wall 25 into the liquid chamber 21 on the inner container 20b.

[0130] The U-shaped portion 7a is housed in the ultrasonic irradiation chamber 21. The U-shaped portion 7a is provided along the bottom wall 25 on the inner container 20b.

[0131] In the ultrasonic mist inhaler, the U-shaped portion 7a has an inner portion 7a1 and an outer portion 7a2, and the inner portion 7a1 is in surface contact with the atomization surface 50 of the ultrasonic vibration means 5, while the outer portion 7a2 is not in surface contact with the ultrasonic vibration means 5.

[0132] The bottom wall 25 of the liquid chamber 21 is a bottom plate 25 that closes the liquid chamber 21 and the ultrasonic wave irradiation chamber 22. Because the bottom plate 25 is sealed, leakage of liquid from the ultrasonic wave irradiation chamber 22 to the casing 3 is prevented.

[0133] The bottom plate 25 has an upper surface 25a with a recess 25b into which the elastic member 8 is inserted. The ultrasonic vibration means 5 is supported by the elastic member 8. The elastic member 8 is made of an annular plate-shaped rubber having an inner hole 8' with a groove designed to support the ultrasonic vibration means 5.

[0134] The upper wall 23 of the liquid chamber 21 is a cap 23 that closes the liquid chamber 21 .

[0135] The top wall 23 has an upper surface 23 which represents the maximum level of liquid that the liquid chamber 21 can contain, and a lower surface 25 which represents the minimum level of liquid within the liquid chamber 21 .

[0136] The top wall 23 is sealed, preventing leakage of liquid from the liquid chamber 21 to the mouthpiece 1.

[0137] The top wall 23 and the bottom wall 25 are fixed to the liquid storage structure 2 by fixing means such as screws, adhesive, or friction.

[0138] As shown in Figure 3, the elastic member is in line contact with the ultrasonic vibration means 5, and by preventing contact between the ultrasonic vibration means 5 and the wall of the inhaler, suppression of vibration of the liquid reservoir structure is more effectively prevented. Therefore, fine particles of the liquid atomized by the atomizing member can be sprayed over a longer distance.

[0139] As depicted in FIG. 3, inner container 20b has an opening 20b' between first portion 20b1 and second portion 20b2 through which capillary element 7 extends from sonication chamber 21. Capillary element 7 absorbs liquid from liquid chamber 21 through opening 20b'. Capillary element 7 is a wick. Capillary element 7 transports liquid to sonication chamber 22 by capillary action. In some examples, capillary element 7 is made of bamboo fiber. In some examples, capillary element 7 may be between 0.27 mm and 0.32 mm thick and have a density between 38 g / m² and 48 g / m².

[0140] As can be seen in FIG. 3, the means of ultrasonic vibration 5 is arranged directly below the capillary element 7 .

[0141] The ultrasonic vibration means 5 may be a transducer. For example, the ultrasonic vibration means 5 may be a piezoelectric transducer and may be designed in the shape of a circular plate. The material of the piezoelectric transducer may be ceramic.

[0142] Furthermore, various transducer materials can be used for the ultrasonic vibration means 5 .

[0143] The end of the air duct 27b1 faces the ultrasonic vibration means 5. The ultrasonic vibration means 5 is in electrical communication with the electrical contactors 101a and 101b. It is noteworthy that the distal end 4b of the integrated circuit 4 has an inner electrode and an outer electrode. The inner electrode contacts the first electrical contactor 101a, which is a spring contact probe, and the outer electrode contacts the second electrical contactor 101b, which is a side pin. Through the integrated circuit 4, the first electrical contactor 101a electrically communicates with the positive terminal of the power storage device 30 via the microprocessor, and the second electrical contactor 101b electrically communicates with the negative terminal of the power storage device 30.

[0144] The electrical contacts 101 a, 101 b traverse the base plate 25. The base plate 25 is adapted to be received inside the peripheral wall 26 of the liquid storage structure 2. The base plate 25 rests on complementary ridges, thereby forming the liquid chamber 21 and the ultrasound irradiation chamber 22.

[0145] The inner container 20b consists of a circular inner slot 20d into which a mechanical spring is applied.

[0146] By pressing the central portion 7a1 against the ultrasonic vibration means 5, the mechanical spring 9 ensures a contact surface between them.

[0147] The reservoir structure 2 and base plate 25 can be made using a variety of thermoplastic materials.

[0148] When a user inhales into the ultrasonic mist inhaler 100, air is drawn in through the peripheral opening 1'' and passes through the airflow chamber 28, through the peripheral opening 27a'' of the airflow bridge 27a and the frustoconical element 20a, and down through the airflow duct 27b into the sonication chamber 22, directly onto the capillary element 7. At the same time, liquid is drawn by capillary action from the reservoir chamber 21 through the multiple openings 20b' and into the capillary element 7. The capillary element 7 brings the liquid into contact with the ultrasonic vibration means 5 of the inhaler 100. In addition, the user's inhalation causes the pressure sensor to activate the integrated circuit 4, which then conducts current to the ultrasonic vibration means 5. Thus, when a user draws on the mouthpiece 1 of the inhaler 100, two actions occur simultaneously. First, the sensor activates the integrated circuit 4, which triggers the ultrasonic vibration means 5 to begin vibrating. Second, the trigger reduces the pressure outside the reservoir chamber 21 so that liquid begins to flow through the opening 20b', which saturates the capillary element 7. The capillary element 7 transports the liquid to the ultrasonic vibration means 5, which causes bubbles to form in the capillary passage, turning the liquid into mist. The mist liquid is then inhaled by the user.

[0149] In some examples, the integrated circuit 4 includes a frequency controller configured to control the frequency at which the ultrasonic vibration means 5 operates. The frequency controller includes a processor and a memory that stores executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform at least one function of the frequency controller.

[0150] As described above, in some examples, the ultrasonic mist inhaler 100 drives the ultrasonic vibration means 5 with a signal having a frequency of 2.8 MHz-3.2 MHz to vaporize a liquid having a liquid viscosity of 1.05 Pascal-seconds-1.412 Pascal-seconds to generate bubble volumes of approximately 0.25-0.5 microns. However, for liquids having different viscosities or other applications, it is possible that the ultrasonic vibration means 5 can be driven at a different frequency.

[0151] For different applications of the mist generating device there will be an optimum frequency or frequency range for driving the ultrasonic vibration means 5 to optimise mist generation. In the example where the ultrasonic vibration means 5 is a piezoelectric transducer, the optimum frequency or frequency range will depend on at least four parameters:

[0152] 1.Converter manufacturing process In some examples, the means for ultrasonic vibration 5 comprises a piezoelectric ceramic. Piezoelectric ceramics are manufactured by mixing compounds to create a ceramic dough, but this mixing process may not be consistent throughout production. This non-uniformity may result in variations in the resonant frequency of the cured piezoelectric ceramic.

[0153] If the resonant frequency of the piezoelectric ceramic does not correspond to the required operating frequency of the device, no mist will be produced during operation of the device. In the case of a nicotine mist inhaler, even a slight deviation in the resonant frequency of the piezoelectric ceramic will affect the production of mist, meaning that the device will not provide the appropriate nicotine level to the user.

[0154] 2. Load on the converter During operation, as the load on the piezoelectric transducer changes, the vibration displacement of the entire piezoelectric transducer is suppressed. To achieve optimal vibration displacement of the piezoelectric transducer, the driving frequency must be adjusted so that the circuit can provide enough power for maximum displacement.

[0155] Types of loads that affect the efficiency of the oscillator include the amount of liquid above the transducer (humidity of the wicking material), the spring force applied to the wicking material to maintain permanent contact with the transducer, and may also include electrical connections.

[0156] 3.Temperature The ultrasonic vibrations of the piezoelectric transducer can be partially damped by incorporating a device that encases the transducer in a silicone / rubber ring and uses a spring to apply pressure to a wicking material above the transducer. This damping of the vibrations causes a local increase in temperature above and around the transducer.

[0157] An increase in temperature affects the vibration due to changes in the molecular behavior of the transducer. An increase in temperature imparts more energy to the ceramic molecules, temporarily affecting their crystalline structure. This effect is reversed as the temperature decreases, but to maintain optimal oscillation, the supplied frequency must be modulated. This frequency modulation is not possible with conventional fixed frequency devices.

[0158] Additionally, increasing the temperature reduces the viscosity of the vaporizing solution (e-liquid), which may require a change in drive frequency to induce cavitation and maintain continuous mist production. In conventional fixed-frequency devices, reducing the liquid viscosity without changing the drive frequency will reduce or completely stop mist production, rendering the device inoperable.

[0159] 4. Distance to power source The oscillation frequency of an electronic circuit can be changed by the length of the wiring between the transducer and the oscillator-driver. The frequency of an electronic circuit is inversely proportional to the distance between the transducer and the rest of the circuit.

[0160] Although the distance parameters are primarily fixed for the device, they can vary during the device manufacturing process, reducing the overall efficiency of the device. Therefore, it is desirable to vary the device's drive frequency to compensate for the variations and optimize the device's efficiency.

[0161] A piezoelectric transducer can be modeled as an RLC circuit in an electronic circuit, as shown in Figure 5. The four parameters mentioned above can be modeled as changes in the inductance, capacitance, and resistance of the overall RLC circuit, changing the resonant frequency range supplied to the transducer. As the frequency of the circuit increases near the transducer's resonance, the logarithmic impedance of the overall circuit drops to a minimum, then rises to a maximum before settling in the middle range. Figure 6 is a typical graph illustrating the change in overall impedance with increasing frequency in an RLC circuit. Figure 7 illustrates how a piezoelectric transducer acts as a capacitor in a first capacitive region at frequencies below a first predetermined frequency (fs) and in a second capacitive region at frequencies above a second predetermined frequency (fp). Between the first and second predetermined frequencies (fs, fp), the piezoelectric transducer acts as an inductor in an inductive region. To maintain optimal transducer oscillation and therefore maximum efficiency, the current flowing through the transducer must be maintained at a frequency within the inductive region.

[0162] The frequency controller of some examples of the device is configured to maintain the oscillation frequency of the piezoelectric transducer (ultrasonic vibration means 5) within the induction region to maximize the efficiency of the device.

[0163] The frequency controller is configured to perform a sweep operation that drives the converter at a frequency that tracks progressively over a predetermined sweep frequency range. As the frequency controller performs the sweep, the frequency controller monitors an analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) value of an analog-to-digital converter coupled to the converter. In some examples, the ADC value is a parameter of the ADC that is proportional to a voltage across the converter. In other examples, the ADC value is a parameter of the ADC that is proportional to a current through the converter.

[0164] As will be described in more detail below, the frequency controller in some examples determines the active power being used by the ultrasonic transducer by monitoring the current through the transducer.

[0165] During the sweep operation, the frequency controller locates the induction region of frequency for the transducer. Once the frequency controller identifies the induction region, the frequency controller records the ADC value and locks the transducer drive frequency at a frequency within the induction region (i.e., between the first and second predetermined frequencies fs and fp) to optimize ultrasonic cavitation by the transducer. When the drive frequency is locked within the induction region, the electromechanical coupling coefficient of the transducer is maximized, thereby maximizing the efficiency of the device.

[0166] In some examples, the frequency controller is configured to perform a sweep operation to identify the location of the induction region each time oscillation is initiated or restarted. In examples, the frequency controller is configured to lock the drive frequency at a new frequency within the induction region each time oscillation is initiated, thereby compensating for changes in parameters that affect the operating efficiency of the device.

[0167] In some instances, the frequency controller ensures optimal mist production and maximizes the efficiency of drug delivery to the user. In some instances, the frequency controller optimizes the device, improving efficiency and maximizing nicotine delivery to the user.

[0168] In other examples, the frequency controller optimizes the device and improves the efficiency of any other device that uses ultrasound. In some examples, the frequency controller is configured for use with therapeutic ultrasound technology to enhance the enhanced drug release from ultrasound-responsive drug delivery systems. Having a precise and optimal frequency during operation ensures that microbubbles, nanobubbles, nanodroplets, liposomes, emulsions, micelles, or any other delivery system is highly effective.

[0169] In some examples, to ensure optimal mist generation and optimal delivery of the compound as described above, the frequency controller is configured to operate in a recursive mode, where the frequency controller periodically performs a frequency sweep during operation of the device and monitors the ADC value to determine whether the ADC value is greater than or equal to a predetermined threshold, which indicates optimal oscillation of the transducer.

[0170] In some examples, the frequency controller performs a sweep operation while the device is in the process of aerosolizing the liquid in case the frequency controller identifies a better possible frequency for the transducer, and if the frequency controller identifies a better frequency, the frequency controller locks the drive frequency at the newly identified better frequency to maintain optimal operation of the device.

[0171] In some examples, the frequency controller performs frequency sweeps for predetermined durations periodically during operation of the device. In the example device described above, the predetermined durations of the sweeps and the time periods between sweeps are selected to optimize device function. When implemented in an ultrasonic mist inhaler, this ensures optimal delivery to the user throughout their inhalation.

[0172] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of some example frequency controller operations.

[0173] The following disclosure discloses further examples of mist inhalers that comprise many of the same elements as the examples described above.

[0174] Elements of the examples described above may be substituted for any of the elements of the examples described in the remainder of this disclosure.

[0175] To ensure sufficient aerosol production, in this example the mist inhaler consists of an ultrasonic / piezoelectric transducer of exactly or substantially 16 mm diameter, manufactured to specific capacitance and impedance values to control the frequency and power required to produce the desired aerosol volume.

[0176] Positioning a 16 mm diameter disk-shaped ultrasonic transducer horizontally would result in a large device that may be ergonomically unsuitable for a handheld device. To alleviate this concern, the ultrasonic transducer in this example is held vertically within the sonication chamber (with the plane of the ultrasonic transducer generally parallel to the flow of aerosol mist into the mouthpiece and / or generally parallel to the longitudinal length of the mist inhaler). In other words, the ultrasonic transducer is generally perpendicular to the base of the mist inhaler.

[0177] 9 and 10 of the accompanying drawings, some example mist inhalers 200 are comprised of a mist generating device 201 and a driver device 202. The driver device 202, in this example, includes a recess 203 that receives and holds a portion of the mist generating device 201. Thus, the mist generating device 201 can be coupled with the driver device 202 to form a compact and portable mist inhaler 200, as shown in FIG.

[0178] 11 to 13 of the accompanying drawings, mist generating device 201 comprises a mist generating housing 204 which is elongated and formed from two housing parts 205, 206 which are optionally attached to one another. Mist generating housing 204 comprises an air inlet port 207 and a mist outlet port 208.

[0179] In this example, the mist-generating housing 204 is an injection-molded plastic, specifically polypropylene, which is typically used in medical applications. In this example, the mist-generating device housing 204 is a heterophase copolymer. More specifically, it is BF970MO heterophase copolymer, which has an optimal combination of very high stiffness and high impact strength. Mist-generating housing components molded from this material exhibit good antistatic performance.

[0180] A heterophasic copolymer such as polypropylene is particularly suitable for the mist-generating housing 204 because this material does not cause condensation of the aerosol as it flows from the sonication chamber 219 through the mouthpiece to the user. This plastic material can also be easily and directly recycled using industrial crushing and cleaning processes.

[0181] 9, 10 and 12, the mist outlet port 208 is closed by a closure element 209. However, it will be understood that when the mist inhaler 200 is in use, the closure element 209 is removed from the mist outlet port 208, as shown in FIG.

[0182] 14 and 15, mist generating device 200 includes a transducer holder 210 held within mist generating housing 204. In this example, transducer holder 210 is comprised of a cylindrical or generally cylindrical main body 211 and circular upper and lower openings 212, 213. Transducer holder 210 is provided with an internal channel 214 for receiving the end of an ultrasonic transducer 215, as shown in FIG.

[0183] The transducer holder 210 incorporates a cutout 216 through which an electrode 217 extends from the ultrasonic transducer 215 so that the electrode 217 can be electrically connected to an AC drive of a driver device, as described in more detail below.

[0184] 13, the mist generating device 201 includes a liquid chamber 218 disposed within the mist generating housing 204. The liquid chamber 218 is for containing the liquid to be atomized. In some examples, the liquid is contained in the liquid chamber 218. In other examples, the liquid chamber 218 is initially empty, and then the liquid chamber is filled with liquid.

[0185] 1. A liquid (also referred to herein as e-liquid) composition suitable for use in an ultrasound device powered at a frequency of 3.0 MHz (±0.2 MHz) by a 3.7 V lithium polymer (LiPo) battery, comprising a nicotine salt consisting of nicotine levulinate, the composition comprising: The relative amount of vegetable glycerin in the composition is: 55 to 80% (w / w), or 60 to 80% (w / w), or 65 to 75% (w / w), or 70% (w / w), and / or the relative amount of propylene glycol in the composition is: 5-30% (w / w), or 10-30% (w / w), or 15-25% (w / w), or 20% (w / w), and / or The relative amount of water in the composition is: 5-15% (w / w), or 7-12% (w / w), or 10% (w / w), and / or The amount of nicotine and / or nicotine salt in the composition is: 0.1-80 mg / ml, or 0.1-50 mg / ml, or 1-25 mg / ml, or 10-20 mg / ml, or 17 mg / ml.

[0186] In some examples, the mist generator 201 contains an e-liquid having a kinematic viscosity between 1.05 Pascal·seconds and 1.412 Pascal·seconds.

[0187] In some examples, the liquid chamber 218 contains a liquid comprising nicotine levulinate in a 1:1 molar ratio.

[0188] In some examples, the liquid chamber contains a liquid having a kinematic viscosity between 1.05 Pa-s and 1.412 Pa-s and a liquid density between 1.1 g / ml and 1.3 g / ml.

[0189] By using e-liquids with the correct parameters of viscosity, density, and the desired target bubble volume of the liquid spray into air, frequencies of 2.8MHz-3.2MHz for a liquid viscosity range of 1.05 Pascal-seconds and 1.412 Pascal-seconds and densities of approximately 1.1-1.3 g / mL (density range obtained from Hertz) have been found to produce droplet volumes where 90% of the droplets are less than 1 micron, and 50% of them are less than 0.5 microns.

[0190] The mist generator 201 includes an ultrasonic wave irradiation chamber 219 provided in a mist generator housing 204 .

[0191] 14 and 15, the transducer holder 210 includes a divider 220 that provides a barrier between the liquid chamber 218 and the sonication chamber 219. The barrier provided by the divider 220 minimizes the risk of the sonication chamber 219 overflowing with liquid from the liquid chamber 218 or oversaturating the capillary element on the ultrasonic transducer 215, either of which would overload and reduce the efficiency of the ultrasonic transducer 215. Furthermore, overflowing the sonication chamber 219 or oversaturating the capillary element could also cause the user to have an unpleasant experience of inhaling liquid. To mitigate this risk, the divider 220 of the transducer holder 210 sits as a wall between the sonication chamber 219 and the liquid chamber 218.

[0192] The partition 220 defines a capillary opening 221, which is the only means by which liquid can flow from the liquid chamber 218 to the sonication chamber 219 via a capillary element. In this example, the capillary opening 221 is an elongated slot having a width of 0.2 mm-0.4 mm. The dimensions of the capillary opening 221 are such that the edges of the capillary opening 221 provide a bias force that acts on the capillary element extending through the capillary opening 221 to exert control over the liquid flow into the sonication chamber 219.

[0193] In this example, the transducer holder 210 is liquid silicone rubber (LSR). In this example, the liquid silicone rubber has a hardness of Shore A60. The LSR material ensures that the ultrasonic transducer 215 can vibrate without the transducer holder 210 damping the vibrations. In this example, the ultrasonic transducer 215 has a vibration displacement of 2-5 nanometers, and any damping effect could reduce the efficiency of the ultrasonic transducer 215. Therefore, the LSR material and hardness are selected to obtain optimal performance with minimal compromise.

[0194] 16 and 17, mist generator 201 includes a capillary or capillary element 222 for transporting a liquid (containing a drug or other substance) from liquid chamber 218 to sonication chamber 219. Tube element 222 is planar or generally planar having a first portion 223 and a second portion 224. In this example, first portion 223 has a rectangular or generally rectangular shape, and second portion 224 has a partially circular shape.

[0195] In this example, the capillary element 222 is composed of a third portion 225 and a fourth portion 226 that are the same shapes as the first and second portions 223, 224, respectively. The capillary element 222 in this example is folded about a fold line 227 so that the first and second portions 223, 224 and the third and fourth portions 225, 226 are superimposed on each other, as shown in Figure 17 .

[0196] In this example, the capillary element has a thickness of approximately 0.28 mm. If the capillary element 222 is folded to have two layers, as shown in Figure 17, the overall thickness of the capillary element is approximately 0.56 mm. This double layer also ensures that there is always enough liquid above the ultrasonic transducer 215 for optimal aerosol generation.

[0197] In this example, when the capillary element 222 is folded, the lower ends of the first and third portions 223, 225 define an enlarged lower end 228 that increases the surface area of the portion of the capillary element 222 that is located in the liquid in the liquid chamber 218 to maximize the rate at which the capillary element 222 absorbs the liquid.

[0198] In this example, the capillary elements 222 are 100% bamboo fiber. In other examples, the capillary elements are at least 75% bamboo fiber. The advantages of using bamboo fiber as the capillary elements have been discussed above.

[0199] 18 and 19, the capillary element 222 is held by the transducer holder 210 such that the transducer holder 210 holds a second portion 224 of the capillary element 222 that overlaps a portion of the atomizing surface of the ultrasonic transducer 215. In this example, the circular second portion 224 fits within the inner recess 214 of the transducer holder 210.

[0200] A first portion 223 of the capillary element 222 extends through a capillary opening 221 in the transducer holder 210 .

[0201] 20-22, the second portion 206 of the mist-generating housing 204 comprises a generally circular wall 229 that receives the transducer holder 222 and forms part of the wall of the ultrasonic treatment chamber 219.

[0202] Contact openings 230 and 231 are provided in the sidewall of the second portion 206 for receiving electrical contacts 232 and 233 that make electrical connection with the electrodes of the ultrasonic transducer 215 .

[0203] In this example, an absorbent tip or element 234 is provided adjacent the mist exit port 208 to absorb liquid at the mist exit port 208. In this example, the absorbent element 234 is made of bamboo fiber.

[0204] 23 to 25, the first portion 205 of the mist generating housing 204 is similar in shape to the second portion 206 and further comprises a generally circular wall portion 235 which forms a further portion of the wall of the ultrasonic irradiation chamber 219 and which holds the transducer holder 210.

[0205] In this example, an absorbent element 236 is further provided adjacent the mist outlet port 208 for absorbing liquid at the mist outlet port 208 .

[0206] In this example, the first portion 205 of the mist generation housing 204 defines a spring support arrangement 237 that supports the lower end of a retainer spring 238, as shown in FIG.

[0207] The upper end of the retainer spring 238 contacts the second portion 224 of the capillary element 222 such that the retainer spring 238 provides a biasing force that biases the capillary element 222 against the atomizing surface of the ultrasonic transducer 215 .

[0208] Referring to Figure 27, the transducer holder 210 is shown in place and held by the second part 206 of the mist-generating housing 204 before the two parts 205, 206 of the mist-generating housing 204 are attached to each other.

[0209] 28 to 31, in this example, mist generator 201 is configured to include identification device 239. Identification device 239 is configured with printed circuit board 240 having electrical contacts 241 provided on one surface, and integrated circuit 242 and other optional component 243 provided on the other surface.

[0210] The integrated circuit 242 has a memory that stores an identifier unique to the mist generating device 201. The electrical contacts 241 provide an electronic interface for communicating with the integrated circuit 242.

[0211] The printed circuit board 240, in this example, is mounted in a recess 244 in one side of the mist-generating housing 204. The integrated circuit 242 and any other electronic components 243 are housed in a further recess 245 so that the printed circuit board 240 is generally flush with the side of the mist-generating housing 204.

[0212] In this arrangement, integrated circuit 242 is a one-time programmable (OTP) device, an anti-counterfeiting feature that allows only genuine mist generators from the manufacturer to be used with the device. This anti-counterfeiting feature is implemented in mist generator 201 as a specific custom integrated circuit (IC) that is bonded (with printed circuit board 240) to mist generator 201. The OTP as an IC contains truly unique information that allows full traceability of mist generator 201 (and its contents) over its lifetime, as well as accurate monitoring of consumption by the user. The OTP IC allows mist generator 201 to function to generate mist only when authorized.

[0213] The OTP, among other features, defines the authorized status of a particular mist generator 201. Indeed, to prevent carbonyl emissions and maintain aerosols at safe levels, experiments have shown that after approximately 1000 seconds of aerosolization, the mist generator 201 is considered to be empty of liquid in the liquid chamber 218. As such, counterfeit or empty mist generators 201 will not be able to operate after this predetermined time of use.

[0214] The OTP feature may be part of a complete chain of communication between the digital sales point, mobile companion application, and mist generator 201. Only genuine mist generators 201 manufactured by a trusted party and sold at the digital sales point may be used. The mobile companion digital app is the link between the user's account on the manufacturer's digital platform and the mist generator 201, ensuring safe use of known safe content with a safe amount of puff duration.

[0215] The OTP feature also enables the high level of access control and monitoring required for prescription drug administration in business-to-business (B2B) use with trusted medical facilities. The OTP IC is read by the driver device 202, which recognizes the inserted mist generator 201 and its associated prescription. The driver device 202 prevents the mist generator 201 from being used for more or less than the time period specified on the prescription. Furthermore, by providing reminders in the mobile companion app, missed doses can be minimized.

[0216] In some examples, the OTP IC is disposable, just like the mist generator device 201. Whenever the mist generator device 201 is deemed empty, it will not be activated if inserted into the driver device 202. Similarly, a counterfeit generator device 201 will not function in the driver device 202.

[0217] 32 to 34 are diagrams showing the state of air flow within the mist generating device 201 during operation.

[0218] Sonication of liquid medications (e.g., nicotine, medical solutions, medical suspensions, protein solutions, supplements, etc.) converts them into a mist (aerosolization). However, this mist will settle above the ultrasonic transducer 215 if sufficient ambient air is not available to replace the rising aerosol. The ultrasonic chamber 219 generates the mist (aerosol) and draws it into the user through the mouthpiece, requiring a continuous supply of air. To accommodate this requirement, an airflow channel is provided. In this example, the airflow channel has an average cross-sectional area of 11.5 mm, which is calculated and designed into the ultrasonic chamber 219 based on the negative pressure from an average user. This also controls the mist-to-air ratio of the inhaled aerosol and, therefore, the amount of medication delivered to the user.

[0219] Based on design requirements, the air flow path is routed to start at the bottom of the sonication chamber 219. The opening at the bottom of the aerosol chamber is aligned with and closely adjacent to the opening to the airflow bridge within the device. The air flow path runs vertically upward along the reservoir and continues to the center of the sonication chamber (concentric with the ultrasonic transducer 215). Here, it makes a 90° inward turn. The flow path then continues approximately 1.5 mm from the ultrasonic transducer 215. This path maximizes the amount of ambient air that is delivered directly toward the atomizing surface of the ultrasonic transducer 215. The air flows through the channel toward the transducer, collecting the generated mist before exiting through the mouthpiece to the user.

[0220] The driver unit 202 will now be described, first with reference to Figures 35 and 36. Air enters the mist generating device 201 through an air inlet port 207, which is in fluid communication with an airflow bridge in the driver unit 202, as described below. The air flows along a flow path that changes direction of the airflow by approximately 90° to direct the airflow towards the ultrasonic transducer 215.

[0221] In some examples, the air flow arrangement is configured to redirect the air flow along the air flow path as the air flow passes into the ultrasonic treatment chamber so that the air flow is substantially perpendicular to the atomizing surface of the ultrasonic transducer.

[0222] The driver unit 202 is constructed at least in part from a metal driver unit housing 246. In some examples, the driver unit housing 246 is entirely aluminum (AL6063 T6) to protect the internal components from the environment (dust, splashes, etc.) and from damage due to impacts (such as accidental drops).

[0223] In some examples, the driver device housing 246 has vents on its sides that allow ambient air to enter the device for two purposes: one is to provide ventilation around the electronic components and keep them within operating temperatures, and the vents also act as air inlets through which air enters the device and then through the airflow bridge into the mist generating device 201.

[0224] The driver device housing 246 is elongated in shape with an interior chamber 247 that houses the components of the driver device 202. One end of the driver device housing 246 is closed by an end cap 248. The other end of the driver device housing 247 has an opening 249 that provides an opening for the recess 203 of the driver device 202.

[0225] The driver device 202 consists of a battery 250 connected to a printed circuit board 251. In some examples, the battery 250 is a 3.7V DC Li-Po battery with a capacity of 1140mAh and a discharge rate of 10C. The high discharge rate is required due to the voltage boost of up to 15V required by the ultrasonic transducer 215 for desired operation. The shape and size of the battery are designed according to the shape and size of the device and the space allocated for the power supply, within physical constraints.

[0226] The printed circuit board 251 contains electronic components, such as a processor and memory, that implement the electrical functions of the driver device 202. A charging pin 252 is provided at one end of the printed circuit board 251 and extends through the end cap 248 to provide a charging connection for charging the battery 250.

[0227] The printed circuit board 251 is held within the driver device housing 246 by a skeleton 252. The skeleton 252 has a channel 253 that receives the printed circuit board 251. The skeleton 252 incorporates raised sides 254, 255 that support the battery 250.

[0228] In some examples, the skeleton 252 is manufactured using an industrial injection molding process. The molded plastic skeleton ensures that all parts are fixed and do not fit loosely within the case. It also forms a cover over the front portion of the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) that receives the mist generating device 201 when it is inserted into the driver device 202.

[0229] The driver device 202 consists of an airflow sensor that functions as a switch to activate and power the transducers for ultrasound generation and aerosol generation. The airflow sensor is mounted on a PCB within the device, and a certain atmospheric pressure drop is required around the driver device 202 to activate it. For this purpose, an airflow bridge 259, as shown in Figures 39-41, is designed with internal channels that direct air from the surroundings through the bridge and into the aerosol chamber. The skeleton 252 consists of opposing channels 256, 257 to receive portions of the airflow bridge, as shown in Figure 42.

[0230] The inner channel of the airflow bridge contains a microchannel (0.5 mm in diameter) that extends into the chamber, completely covering the airflow sensor. When air flows in through the side inlet and flows upward into the aerosol chamber, negative pressure is created in the microchannel, which triggers the airflow sensor to activate the device.

[0231] The device is a compact, portable, and advanced device capable of accurately and safely monitoring aerosolization by incorporating high-quality electronic components designed with IPC Class 3 (medical grade) in mind.

[0232] The electronic components of the driver device 202 are divided as follows: 1. Ultrasonic processing unit To obtain the most efficient aerosolization to date, with particle sizes below 1 um, for inhalation with a portable device, the ultrasonic processor must provide contact pads that receive the ultrasonic transducer 215 (piezoelectric ceramic disc (PZT)) at a high adaptive frequency (approximately 3 MHz).

[0233] This section must not only provide high frequencies, but must also provide optimized cavitation at all times while protecting the ultrasonic transducer 215 from failure.

[0234] The mechanical deformation of the PZT is coupled to the AC voltage amplitude applied to it, and maximum deformation must always be supplied to the PZT to ensure optimal function and delivery of the system with each ultrasound exposure.

[0235] However, to prevent PZT failure, the active power delivered to the PZT must be precisely controlled.

[0236] This is achieved only by designing a custom, power management integrated circuit (PMIC) chip that does not exist on the market, which is mounted on the printed circuit board of the driver device 202. This PMIC allows instantaneous modulation of the effective power applied to the PZT without compromising the PZT's mechanical vibration amplitude.

[0237] By applying PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) to the AC voltage applied to the PZT, the mechanical amplitude of the vibration can be kept constant.

[0238] For this reason, the only "off-the-shelf" option was to modify the output AC voltage using a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). Although this reduces the energy transferred to the PZT, it also introduces mechanical deformations that completely prevent proper aerosolization. In fact, just like in the case of voltage modulation, effective duty cycle modulation results in the same applied effective voltage, but the effective power transferred to the PZT is degraded. In fact, it can be expressed as:

[0239]

number

[0240] When considering the first harmonic, Irms is a function of the amplitude of the real voltage applied to the transducer, and pulse width modulation varies the duration of the voltage supplied to the transducer, thus controlling Irms.

[0241] The specific design of the PMIC employs cutting-edge design techniques, including a complete set of feedback loops and monitoring paths used by the control unit, enabling ultra-precise control of the frequency range and step applied to the PZT.

[0242] The remainder of the aerosolization section consists of a DC / DC boost converter and transformer that provides the necessary power to the PZT contact pads from a 3.7 V battery. The driver unit consists of an AC driver that converts the voltage from the battery into an AC drive signal of a predetermined frequency to drive the ultrasonic transducer.

[0243] The driver device comprises an active power monitoring device for monitoring the active power used by the ultrasonic transducer (described above) when the ultrasonic transducer is driven by the AC drive signal, the active power monitoring device providing a monitoring signal indicative of the active power used by the ultrasonic transducer.

[0244] A processor within the driver unit controls the AC drive and receives monitoring signals from the active power monitoring equipment.

[0245] The memory of the driver device stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: A. Controlling the AC drive to output an AC drive signal to the ultrasonic transducer at a predetermined sweep frequency B. Calculate the active power being used by the ultrasonic transducer based on the monitoring signal C. Controlling the AC driver to modulate the AC drive signal to maximize the effective power used by the ultrasonic transducer D. Save in memory a record of the maximum effective power used by the ultrasonic transducer and the sweep frequency of the AC drive signal. E. Repeat steps A-D a predetermined number of times, with the sweep frequency increasing with each iteration, so that after a predetermined number of iterations, the sweep frequency increases from the sweep start frequency to the sweep end frequency. F. From the records stored in memory, identify the optimum frequency of the AC drive signal, which is the sweep frequency of the AC drive signal at which the greatest effective power is used by the ultrasonic transducer. G. Control the AC drive to output an AC drive signal at an optimal frequency to the ultrasonic transducer, thereby driving the ultrasonic transducer to atomize the liquid.

[0246] In some examples, the active power monitoring device includes a current sensing device for sensing a drive current of an AC drive signal that drives the ultrasonic transducer, and the active power monitoring device provides a monitor signal indicative of the sensed drive current.

[0247] In some examples, the current sensing device includes an analog-to-digital converter that converts the sensed drive current into a digital signal for processing by a processor.

[0248] In some examples, the memory stores a memory that, when executed by the processor, instructs the processor to repeat steps AD above where the sweep frequency increases from a sweep start frequency of 2900 kHz to a sweep end frequency of 2960 kHz.

[0249] In some examples, the memory stores a memory that, when executed by the processor, instructs the processor to repeat steps AD above where the sweep frequency increases from a sweep start frequency of 2900 kHz to a sweep end frequency of 3100 kHz.

[0250] In some examples, the memory stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: in step G, control the AC drive to output an AC drive signal to the ultrasonic transducer at a frequency shifted by a predetermined shift amount from the optimal frequency.

[0251] In some examples, the predetermined shift amount is between 1-10% of the optimal frequency.

[0252] 2. Control & Information (CI) Department The control and information unit consists of an external EEPROM for data storage, an LED for user indication, a pressure sensor for airflow detection, and a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) compatible microcontroller for constant monitoring and management of the aerosolization unit.

[0253] The pressure sensor used in the device serves two purposes. First, it prevents unwanted and accidental activation of the sonic engine (driving the ultrasonic transducer). This function is implemented in the device's processing equipment, which is optimized for low power consumption and constantly measures environmental parameters such as temperature and ambient pressure with internal compensation and reference settings in order to accurately detect and classify what is called a true inhalation.

[0254] Unlike all other e-cigarette devices on the market, this solution takes advantage of the microcontroller's strengths and allows for the use of only one sensor.

[0255] The second purpose of the pressure sensor is to be able to accurately monitor the user's inhalation time for accurate inhalation volume measurement, as well as determine the strength of the user's inhalation, which is important information in medical settings for proper prescription and health status monitoring. Overall, we can fully depict the pressure profile of every inhalation and predict the end of inhalation for both aerosolization optimization and behavioral understanding of medical data.

[0256] This is made possible by using a Bluetooth™ Low Energy (BLE) microcontroller, which monitors multiple parameters to ensure extremely accurate inhalation times, optimized aerosolization, a safe mist, prevents the use of non-genuine e-liquids or aerosol chambers, and protects the device against overheating and the user against over-misting, all in one product, unlike any other on the market.

[0257] The use of a BLE microcontroller allows for over-the-air updates, providing users with a continuous stream of improved software based on anonymized data collection and pre-trained AI for PZT modeling.

[0258] 3. Power Management (PM) Section The power management section consists of an LDO (Low Dropout Regulator) that supplies power to the control and information section from a 3.7V LiPo battery, and a BMS (Battery Management System) path that provides high protection and charging to the built-in LiPo battery.

[0259] Despite being such an integrated and compact device, the components in this section were carefully and thoroughly selected to ensure a high power supply to the ultrasound irradiation section and a stable power supply to the control and information section. In fact, when high power is supplied to the aerosolization section from a 3.7V LiPo battery, the power supply voltage fluctuates greatly during operation. Without a low-dropout regulator, the stable power supply required for the control and information section would not be able to be supplied when the battery voltage dropped to a voltage 0.3V lower than the minimum rating of the components in this section. For this reason, the LDO plays an important role. Loss of the CI section would cause the entire device to stop functioning.

[0260] Therefore, careful component selection not only ensures high reliability of the device, but also allows it to operate under harsh conditions and extend the time between charges.

[0261] Controlled Aerosolization The device must provide controlled and reliable aerosolization to be an accurate, reliable and safe aerosolization solution for smoking cessation programs, medical prescriptions and everyday customer use.

[0262] This is done by an internal method that can be divided into several sections:

[0263] 1. Sonication To achieve optimal aerosolization, the ultrasonic transducer (PZT) needs to be vibrated in the most efficient way.

[0264] frequency The electromechanical properties of piezoelectric ceramics mean that the component is most efficient at its resonant frequency. However, if the PZT is allowed to resonate for an extended period of time, the component will inevitably break down, rendering the aerosol chamber unusable.

[0265] Furthermore, important points to consider when using piezoelectric materials are variations during manufacturing, and variations due to temperature and lifespan.

[0266] Resonating the PZT at 3 MHz to generate droplets smaller than 1 um requires an adaptive method to seek and target the specific PZT "sweet spot" within every aerosol chamber used in the device, every time you inhale.

[0267] sweep Due to the need to identify the "sweet spot" with each inhale, and due to overuse, the PZT temperature is varied using an in-house double sweep method.

[0268] The first sweep is used when the device has not been used for a specific aerosol chamber for a period of time deemed sufficient to allow all heat dissipation and for the PZT to cool to its "default temperature." This procedure is also known as a cold start. During this procedure, the PZT needs a boost to generate the required aerosol. This is achieved by passing only a small subset of frequencies between 2900 kHz and 2960 kHz, which takes into account extensive research and experimentation and covers the resonance point.

[0269] Each frequency within this range is converted into a current that the sonic engine activates and the current passing through the PZT is actively monitored and stored by the microcontroller via an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), allowing the power used by the PZT to be accurately deducted.

[0270] This gives a cold profile of the PZT with respect to frequency, and the frequency used during inhalation is the one that uses the most current, i.e. the frequency with the lowest impedance.

[0271] A second sweep is performed during the subsequent inhalation, covering the entire frequency range between 2900 kHz and 3100 kHz by modifying the PZT profile for temperature and deformation. This hot profile is used to determine the shift to apply.

[0272] shift Because aerosolization must be optimal, no shift is used during cryogenic inhalation, and the PZT will vibrate at its resonant frequency, which can only happen if repeated over a short period of time, otherwise the PZT will inevitably break down.

[0273] However, shifting is used during most inhalations as a way to target low impedance frequencies, resulting in suboptimal operation of the PZT while protecting it from breakdown.

[0274] Since hot and cold profiles are stored during inhalation, the microcontroller can select the appropriate shift frequency according to measurements of the current through the PZT during the sweep to ensure safe mechanical operation.

[0275] Piezoelectric components behave differently outside and inside the double resonance / anti-resonance frequency, so the choice of the direction of the shift is important. Since PZT is inductive, not capacitive, the shift you choose should always be within this range defined by the resonance and anti-resonance frequencies.

[0276] Finally, the percentage shift is kept below 10% to be close to the lowest impedance but far enough away from resonance.

[0277] adjustment Due to the inherent nature of PZT, every inhalation is different: In addition to the piezo element, numerous other parameters influence the outcome of the inhalation, including the amount of e-liquid remaining in the aerosol chamber, the wicking condition of the gauze, and the device's battery level.

[0278] For this reason, the current used by the PZT in the aerosol chamber is constantly monitored, and the microcontroller constantly adjusts parameters such as frequency and duty cycle to provide the most stable power to the aerosol chamber within a predefined range, based on research and experimental results regarding the most optimal and safe aerosolization.

[0279] Battery Monitoring To supply a 15V AC voltage and maintain a current of approximately 2.5A inside the PZT, the current drawn from the battery reaches approximately 7-8A, resulting in a drop in battery voltage. A typical LiPo battery cannot sustain this demanding current for inhalation lasting more than six seconds. Therefore, we developed a custom LiPo battery capable of handling approximately 11A, more than 50% of the PZT's maximum allowable current, enabling simple use as a compact, all-in-one portable device.

[0280] Because battery voltage drops and fluctuates significantly when the ultrasonic generator is activated, a microcontroller constantly monitors the power used by the PZT in the aerosol chamber to ensure proper and safe aerosol generation.

[0281] Additionally, because control is key to aerosolization, this device first ensures that the control and information portion of the device is always functioning and does not shut down to the detriment of the ultrasound processing portion.

[0282] For this reason, the adjustment method takes into account the real-time battery level and, if necessary, changes parameters such as duty cycle to keep the battery at a safe level, and if the battery level becomes low before the sonic engine starts, the control and information section will prevent starting.

[0283] Power Control As it is said that the key to aerosolization is control, the method used in this device is a real-time multidimensional function that constantly takes into account the PZT profile, the current flow inside the PZT, and the device's battery level.

[0284] All of this is only possible with the use of a microcontroller that can monitor and control every element of the device to ensure optimal inhalation.

[0285] 1. Inhalation control This device is safe, as confirmed in a report by BNS (Broughton Nicotine Services), but each inhalation must be controlled to ensure the safety of the mist and the integrity of both the aerosol chamber and the device.

[0286] Inhalation time To reduce exposure to harmful compounds such as carbonyls that can be generated by heating e-liquid, the maximum inhalation time is set to 6 seconds, completely eliminating exposure to these compounds.

[0287] Interval Relying on piezoelectric components, the ultrasound emitter is deactivated when inhalation stops. The safety delay between two inhalations is adapted depending on the duration of the previous inhalation, ensuring that the gauze is properly aspirated before the next activation.

[0288] This feature allows the device to operate safely and achieve more optimal aerosolization without damaging the PZT elements or exposing the user to toxic compounds.

[0289] Connectivity (BLE) The control and information section of the device consists of a wireless communication system with a Bluetooth Low Energy-enabled microcontroller that communicates with the device's processor and is configured to transmit and receive data between the driver device and a computing device such as a smartphone.

[0290] Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity to companion mobile applications requires less power for this communication, allowing devices to continue functioning for longer periods of time even when not in use, compared to traditional wireless connectivity solutions such as Wi-Fi, classic Bluetooth, GSM, and even LTE-M and NB-IOT.

[0291] Most importantly, this connectivity enables OTP functionality and full control and safety of the inhalation: everything from the resonant frequency of the inhalation to the amount and duration of negative pressure used or created by the user is stored and transmitted via BLE for further analysis and refinement of the embedded software.

[0292] Furthermore, all this information is extremely important when the device is used in medical or smoking cessation programs, as it provides doctors and users with all the information about the inhalation process and allows for real-time tracking of prescriptions and usage.

[0293] Finally, this connectivity allows for embedded firmware updates both internally and over the air (OTA), ensuring the latest version is always deployed quickly, making the device scalable and ensuring it is maintained.

[0294] Data collection for clinical smoking cessation purposes User data such as the number of puffs and puff duration can be collected to determine the total amount of treatment consumed by the user in one session.

[0295] This data can be interpreted by an algorithm that sets consumption limits for each time period based on a doctor's recommendations.

[0296] This allows the user to receive therapeutic doses of medication that are supervised by a physician or pharmacist and cannot be abused by the end user.

[0297] It is safe and effective for physicians to provide gradual dosage reductions over time and therapeutic smoking cessation doses in a controlled manner that is safe for the user.

[0298] Puff Limit The process of ultrasonic cavitation has a significant impact on the nicotine concentration in the generated mist.

[0299] The device's restriction of puff times to 7 seconds or less limits users' exposure to carbonyls commonly produced by electronic nicotine delivery systems.

[0300] According to the results of an experiment conducted by Broughton Nicotine Services, after users took 10 consecutive puffs of less than 7 seconds, the total carbonyl levels were less than 2.67μg / 10 puffs (average: 1.43μg / 10 puffs) for formaldehyde, less than 0.87μg / 10 puffs (average: 1.50μg / 10 puffs) for acetaldehyde, and less than 0.40μg / 10 puffs (average: 0.28μg / 10 puffs) for propyl. Onaldehyde was detected at less than 0.16 μg / 10 puffs (average: 0.16 μg / 10 puffs) for crotonaldehyde, butyraldehyde at less than 0.19 μg / 10 puffs (average: 0.17 μg / 10 puffs) for butyraldehyde, diacetyl at less than 0.42 μg / 10 puffs (average: 0.25 μg / 10 puffs), and acetylpropionyl were not detected at all in 10 consecutive puffs emitted for less than 7 seconds.

[0301] Because e-cigarette aerosolization is achieved by the mechanical action of a piezoelectric disc rather than by directly heating the liquid, the individual components of e-cigarettes (e.g., propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavoring ingredients) remain largely intact and do not break down into smaller harmful components such as acrolein, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde at high rates seen in traditional e-cigarettes.

[0302] To limit the user's exposure to carbonyls while using the ultrasound device, the length of the puff is limited to a maximum of 6 seconds, so that the above results are the absolute worst-case scenario in terms of exposure.

[0303] 43 and 44, when the end cap 248 is attached to the driver unit housing 246, the aluminum driver unit housing 246 acts as a Faraday cage, preventing the unit from radiating any electromagnetic waves. The unit with the driver unit housing 246 has been tested for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and the tests have revealed that emissions are less than half of the allowable limits for the unit. The EMC test results are shown in the graph of FIG. 45.

[0304] All of the above applications involving ultrasonic technology can benefit from the optimization achieved by a frequency controller that optimizes the frequency of the ultrasonic treatment for optimal performance.

[0305] It will be appreciated that the disclosure herein is not limited to use for nicotine delivery, and some examples are configured for use for various medical purposes (e.g., delivery of CBD for pain relief, performance-enhancing supplements, albuterol / salbutamol for asthma sufferers, etc.).

[0306] The devices disclosed herein are for use with any drug or other compound provided in a liquid form within a liquid chamber of the device for aerosolization by the device. In some examples, the devices disclosed herein are for use with drugs and compounds including, but not limited to:

[0307] respiratory system Brocodiler Olodaterol Levalbuterol Belodual (ipratropium bromide / fenoterol) Combivent (ipratropium bromide / salbutamol) anti-inflammatory agents Betamethasone Dexamethasone Methylprednisolone Hydrocortisone mucolytics N-acetylcysteine Pulmonary hypertension Sildenafil Tadalafil Epoprostenol Treprostenil Iloprost infectious disease Antibiotics Aminoglycosides (gentamicin, tobramycin, amikacin, colomycin, neomycin, liposomal amikacin, etc.) Quinolone antibacterial agents (ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, ofloxacin) Macrolides (azithromycin) Minocycline Beta-lactam antibiotics (piperacillin, tazobactam, ceftazidime, ticarcillin, etc.) Cephalosporin antibiotics (cefotaxime, cefepime, ceftriaxone, cefotaxime) Glycopeptide (vancomycin) Meropenem Polymyxins (colistin, polymyxin B) antifungal agents Amphotericin Fluconazole Caspofangan antiviral agents Valganciclovir Favipiravir Remdesivir Acyclovir antituberculosis Isoniazid Pyrazinamide Rifampin Ethambutol Oncology Biologics Girotrif Afatinib Caplacizumab Dupilumab Isarilumab Arylcomab Volasertib Nintedanib Imatinib Sirolimus chemotherapy Azacitidine Decitabine Docetaxel Gemcitabine Cisplatinum Central Nervous System & Mental Sodium valproate Teriflunomide Zomitriptan Metabolism and Hormones insulin estrogen immunology vaccine Monoclonal antibodies stem cells vitamin zinc Ascorbic acid others Niclosamide Hydroxychloroquine Ivermectin Some examples of ultrasonic mist inhalers 100 are more powerful versions of current portable medical nebulizers, in the shape and size of current e-cigarettes, with specific configurations for effective vaporization, and offer a healthier alternative to cigarettes and current e-cigarette products.

[0308] Some embodiments of the ultrasonic mist inhaler 100 are particularly applicable to individuals who use electronic inhalers as a means of quitting smoking and reducing nicotine addiction. The ultrasonic mist inhaler 100 provides a method for gradually tapering the nicotine dosage.

[0309] Other examples of ultrasonic mist inhalers are readily envisioned, including drug delivery devices.

[0310] The foregoing has outlined features of several examples or embodiments to enable those skilled in the art to better understand various aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use this disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures which carry out the same purposes and / or achieve the same advantages of the various examples or embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also recognize that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0311] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features or methodological acts, it is understood that the subject matter of the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing at least a portion of the claims.

[0312] Various operations of examples or embodiments are provided herein. The order in which some or all of the operations are described should not be construed to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. It will be understood that alternative orders may have the benefit of this document. Furthermore, it will be understood that not all operations are necessarily present in each embodiment provided herein. It will also be understood that not all operations are required in some examples or embodiments.

[0313] Furthermore, "exemplary" as used herein means serving as an example, instance, illustration, etc., and not necessarily advantageous. As used herein, "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or." Furthermore, as used in this application and the appended claims, "a" and "an" are generally construed to mean "one or more" unless otherwise specified or unless the context clearly directs to the singular form. Furthermore, to the extent that "comprises," "has," "having," "with," or variations thereof are used, such terms are intended to be inclusive in the same manner as the term "comprises." Additionally, unless otherwise specified, terms such as "first," "second," etc. are not intended to imply any temporal aspect, spatial aspect, order, etc.

[0314] Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. of features, elements, items, etc.

[0315] For example, a first element and a second element generally correspond to element A and element B, or two different elements or two identical elements or the same element.

[0316] Moreover, while the present disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more embodiments, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure includes all such alterations and modifications, and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular, with respect to the various functions performed by the above-described features (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such features are intended, unless otherwise indicated, to correspond to any feature that performs the specified function of the described feature (e.g., functionally equivalent), even if it is not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure. In addition, while a particular feature of the present disclosure may be disclosed with respect to only one of several embodiments, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments as desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

[0317] Examples or embodiments of the subject matter and functional operations described herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed herein and their structural equivalents, or in combinations of one or more of them.

[0318] Some examples or embodiments are implemented using one or more modules of computer program instructions encoded on a computer-readable medium for execution by or to control the operation of a data processing apparatus. The computer-readable medium may be an article of manufacture, such as a hard drive in a computer system or embedded system. The computer-readable medium may be obtained separately and later encoded with one or more modules of computer program instructions, such as by delivery of one or more modules of computer program instructions over a wired or wireless network. The computer-readable medium may be a machine-readable storage device, a machine-readable storage substrate, a storage device, or a combination of one or more thereof.

[0319] The terms "computing device" and "data processing device" encompass all devices, apparatus, and machines for processing data, including, by way of example, a programmable processor, computer, or multiple processors or computers. In addition to hardware, a device may include code that establishes an execution environment for the computer program, such as code comprising processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, a runtime environment, or one or more combinations thereof. Furthermore, the device may employ a variety of different computing model infrastructures, such as web services, distributed computing, and grid computing infrastructures.

[0320] The processes and logic flows described herein may be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating output.

[0321] Processors suitable for executing a computer program include, by way of example, general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Typically, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory, a random-access memory, or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will include one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks, operatively coupled to receive data from and / or transfer data to them. However, a computer need not have such devices. Devices suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media, and memory devices.

[0322] In this document, "comprises" means "includes, comprises," and "comprises" means "includes, comprises."

[0323] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, may be expressed in their specific form, or in terms of means for performing a disclosed function, or methods or processes for achieving a disclosed result, as appropriate, and may be utilized separately or in any combination of those features to realize the invention in various of its forms.

Claims

1. A mist generating device for delivering a medical drug, comprising: an elongated mist generating housing having an air inlet port and a mist outlet port; a liquid chamber provided within the mist generating housing, the liquid chamber containing a liquid to be atomized, the liquid including a medical drug; an ultrasonic treatment chamber provided within the mist generating housing; a generally planar capillary element including an enlarged end, a first portion having a generally rectangular shape, and a second portion having a partially circular shape, the capillary element extending between the liquid chamber and the ultrasonic treatment chamber, the first portion of the capillary element being within the liquid chamber, the enlarged end being located in the liquid contained in the liquid chamber, and the second portion of the capillary element being within the ultrasonic treatment chamber; an ultrasonic transducer having a generally planar atomizing surface disposed within the sonication chamber, the ultrasonic transducer being mounted within the mist-generating housing such that the plane of the atomizing surface is substantially parallel to the longitudinal length of the mist-generating housing, the second portion of the capillary element partially overlapping the atomizing surface, the ultrasonic transducer being configured to vibrate the atomizing surface to atomize the liquid carried by the second portion of the capillary element and produce a mist comprising atomized liquid and air within the sonication chamber; an airflow arrangement providing an air flow path between the air inlet port, the ultrasonic treatment chamber, and the mist outlet port, wherein a user draws air at the mist outlet port through the inlet port, the ultrasonic treatment chamber, and the mist outlet port, and the mist generated in the ultrasonic treatment chamber is carried by the air through the mist outlet port for inhalation by the user; and A mist generating device comprising:

2. The mist generating device further comprises: a transducer holder held within the mist-generating housing, the transducer holder holding the ultrasonic transducer and the second portion of the capillary element overlapping a portion of the atomizing surface; a partition providing a barrier between the liquid chamber and the sonication chamber, the partition comprising a capillary opening through which a portion of the first portion of the capillary element passes; The mist generating device according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. 3. The mist generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the capillary element has a thickness of substantially 0.28 mm.

4. 4. A mist generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the capillary element comprises a first portion and a second portion that are superimposed on each other so that the capillary element has two layers.

5. A mist generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the capillary element is at least 75% bamboo fibre.

6. 6. The mist generating device according to claim 5, wherein the capillary element is made of 100% bamboo fiber.

7. 7. The mist generating device according to claim 1, further comprising at least one absorbent element disposed adjacent to the mist outlet port for absorbing liquid at the mist outlet port.

8. 8. A mist generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the liquid has a liquid viscosity between 1.05 Pascal-seconds and 1.412 Pascal-seconds and a liquid density between 1.1 g / ml and 1.3 g / ml.

9. 9. The mist generating device of claim 1, wherein the liquid comprises at least one of a respiratory procodilator, an anti-inflammatory agent, an antifungal agent, an antiviral agent, a chemotherapy drug, a medical solution, a medical suspension, a protein solution, a vitamin, a supplement, and / or a performance enhancing supplement.

10. 10. The mist generating device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid contains at least one medical drug for treating pulmonary hypertension, cancer, infectious diseases, central nervous system (CNS) disorders, mental illnesses, metabolic disorders, and / or hormonal disorders.

11. A mist generator as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the liquid contains a nicotine salt consisting of nicotine levulinate.

12. A mist generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the liquid contains an amount of nicotine and / or nicotine salts of 0.1-80 mg / ml, or 0.1-50 mg / ml, or 1-25 mg / ml, or 10-20 mg / ml, or 17 mg / ml.

13. 12. A mist generator as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the liquid contains vegetable glycerin (VG) in an amount of 55 to 80% (w / w), or 60 to 80% (w / w), or 65 to 75% (w / w), or 70% (w / w).

14. 12. A mist generator as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the liquid contains propylene glycol (PG) in an amount of 5 to 30% (w / w), or 10 to 30% (w / w), or 15 to 25% (w / w), or 20% (w / w) in its composition.

15. The mist generating device further includes an identification device provided in the mist generating housing, the identification device including: an integrated circuit having a memory for storing a unique identifier of the mist generating device; an electrical connection providing an electronic interface for communicating with the integrated circuit; A mist generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that it comprises:

16. 16. The mist generating device of claim 15, wherein the memory of the integrated circuit stores a record of the state of the mist generating device indicative of at least one of historical use of the mist generating device or the volume of the liquid in a liquid chamber.

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