Powder Inhalation Device and Its Control Method

Abstract

The powder inhalation device includes a storage tank in which a powdery medium is stored, a powder loading section that transmits the medium from the storage tank, an air flow passage through which the medium transmitted to the powder loading section flows together with air, an air flow sensor that detects the pressure or flow rate of the air flow passage, a powder diffusion section that diffuses the medium transmitted to the powder loading section into the air flow passage, and a control section that receives a pressure signal or a flow rate signal from the air flow sensor and controls the powder diffusion section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a powder inhaler that aerosolizes powder and enables a user to inhale the powder, and a control method thereof.

Background Art

[0002] A powder inhaler is a device for aerosolizing powder so that a user can inhale it, for example, to administer a powder-type drug for treating asthma and other respiratory diseases to the user or to provide a powder containing nicotine to the user.

[0003] The aerosolized powder must be supplied to the user in a sufficient amount for the intended purpose.

[0004] Conventional powder inhalers have operated passively depending on the inhalation effort of the user attempting to inhale the powder. However, when the powder inhaler is operated passively to inhale the powder, the inhalation ability may vary from user to user, so that the powder may not be supplied sufficiently.

[0005] Particularly, when the inhalation ability of the user is insufficient, the powder may not be supplied to the user sufficiently.

[0006] Also, depending on the nature of the powder, if the powder agglomerates or adheres, the flow of the air current becomes poor and the supply of the powder becomes insufficient.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a powder inhaler that can supply a sufficient amount of powder to the user reliably depending on the inhalation ability of the user.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] The powder inhaler according to various embodiments of the present disclosure stably supplies powder depending on the inhalation ability of the user.

[0009] In addition, the powder inhaler according to various embodiments of the present disclosure supplies sufficient powder to the user even when the user's inhalation ability is insufficient.

[0010] In addition, the powder inhaler according to various embodiments of the present disclosure supplies powder to the user according to the user's inhalation timing.

[0011] The problems to be solved through the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the aforementioned problems, and problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present embodiment belongs from this specification and the accompanying drawings.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0012] The powder inhaler in one embodiment includes a storage tank in which a powdery medium is stored, a powder loading unit to which the medium is transmitted from the storage tank, an air flow passage through which an air flow in which the medium transmitted to the powder loading unit and air are mixed flows, an air flow sensor that detects a change in the air flow in the air flow passage, a powder diffusing unit that diffuses the medium transmitted to the powder loading unit toward the air flow passage, and a control unit that receives a signal from the air flow sensor and operates the powder diffusing unit based on the change in the air flow in the air flow passage.

[0013] The control method of the powder inhaler in another embodiment includes an inhalation ability measurement step of detecting a change in the air flow in an air flow passage that fluidly communicates a powder loading unit to which a powdery medium is transmitted and the outside of the powder inhaler, and a powder inhalation assistance step of operating a powder diffusing unit based on the change in the air flow in the air flow passage and diffusing the medium transmitted to the powder loading unit toward the air flow passage.

Advantages of the Invention

[0014] The powder inhaler according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can stably supply powder to the user according to the user's inhalation ability.

[0015] Moreover, the powder inhaler according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can supply sufficient powder to the user even when the user's inhalation ability is insufficient.

[0016] Moreover, the powder inhaler according to various embodiments of the present disclosure can supply powder to the user according to the user's inhalation timing.

[0017] The effects according to the present embodiment are not limited to the aforementioned effects, and the effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present embodiment belongs from the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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Figure 1

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Figure 2

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Figure 3

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Figure 5

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Figure 11

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0029] In the present embodiment, the terms used are, as much as possible, generally used terms that are currently widely used while considering the functions in the present invention. However, this may also vary depending on the intentions of those skilled in the art, precedents, or the emergence of new technologies. In addition, in certain cases, there are terms arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, the meaning thereof will be described in detail in the description part of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention must be defined based not only on the name of the terms but also on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention.

[0030] Throughout the specification, when a certain part "includes" a certain component, it means that, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, it does not exclude other components but may further include other components. Also, terms such as "~ part" described in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this may be implemented by hardware or software, or may be implemented by a combination of hardware and software.

[0031] As used in the present disclosure, when an expression such as "at least any one of" is in front of the arranged components, it modifies the entire components, not each of the arranged components. For example, the expression "at least any one of a, b, and c" should be interpreted to include "a, b, c", "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a, b, and c".

[0032] That two variables are "proportional" should be interpreted to have a relationship such that when one variable is increased, the other variable is also increased, and when one variable is decreased, the other variable is also decreased, and it should be interpreted to include not only a linear function relationship but also other function relationships such as a quadratic function relationship.

[0033] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail so that those having ordinary knowledge in the technical field can easily implement them.

[0034] The present disclosure may be implemented in a form that can be embodied in powder inhalers of various embodiments, or may be implemented in various different forms, but is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0035] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail.

[0036] FIGS. 1 to 5 are schematic views of powder inhalers according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] The internal structure of the powder inhaler 1 is not limited to what is shown in FIGS. 1 to 5. That is, depending on the design of the powder inhaler 1, some of the configurations shown in FIGS. 1 to 5 may be omitted, or new configurations may be further added.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a powder inhaler according to an embodiment.

[0039] Referring to FIG. 1, the powder inhaler 1 also includes a storage tank 11, a powder loading section 12, an air flow passage 13, an air flow sensor 14, a powder diffusion section 15, a control section 20, and a battery 30.

[0040] The air flow passage 13 also includes an air flow inlet 131 and an air flow outlet 132.

[0041] When the user uses the powder inhaler 1, if the user performs an operation of inhaling air using the air flow outlet 132, external air is inhaled into the air flow passage 13 through the air flow inlet 131. The air inhaled into the air flow passage 13 can be discharged to the user through the air flow outlet 132.

[0042] Since the air flow flowing through the air flow passage 13 flows from the air flow inlet 131 toward the air flow outlet 132, the air flow flowing through the air flow passage 13 can be called upstream relatively closer to the air flow inlet 131, and can be called downstream relatively closer to the air flow outlet 132.

[0043] To assist understanding, if the direction is defined, it is as follows.

[0044] The direction in which the air flow is discharged to the air flow outlet 132 of the powder inhaler 1 can be called the upper side, and the opposite direction can be called the lower side. The direction defined here can be applied not only to the description related to the embodiment referring to FIG. 1, but also to the whole disclosure.

[0045] The structure of the air flow passage 13 illustrated in FIG. 1, the arrangement of the air flow inlet 131 and the air flow outlet 132 are exemplary, and various structures in which the air flow flows into the powder inhaler 1 from the outside and is discharged to the outside can be applied to the present disclosure.

[0046] The powder inhaler 1 can accommodate the storage tank 11 in the internal space. The storage tank 11 is a component in which a space is formed inside, but its shape is not limited. A powdery medium can be stored in the storage tank 11. The powdery medium stored in the storage tank 11 can be moved inside the storage tank 11.

[0047] The powdery medium also contains nicotine.

[0048] As another example, the powdery medium also contains a drug for treating respiratory diseases for asthma patients.

[0049] A storage tank outlet 111 connected to the internal space of the storage tank 11 can be formed in the storage tank 11. The powdery medium stored inside the storage tank 11 can be discharged to the outside of the storage tank 11 through the storage tank outlet 111.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the storage tank outlet 111 can be formed at the lower part of the storage tank 11. In such an arrangement, the powdery medium stored inside the storage tank 11 can be moved to the lower part of the storage tank 11 by gravity and discharged to the storage tank outlet 111.

[0051] A mesh or a mesh-like structure (not shown) can be arranged at the storage tank outlet 111. The mesh or the mesh-like structure (not shown) can prevent the excessive discharge of the powdery medium inside the storage tank 11 and assist in the proper and sufficient discharge of the powdery medium.

[0052] The powder loading part 12 is a component for transmitting the powdery medium discharged from the storage tank 11. The powder loading part 12 is a component through which the powdery medium discharged from the storage tank 11 passes before being discharged to the air flow outlet 132.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the powder loading part 12 can be arranged below the storage tank 11.

[0054] The shape of the powder loading part 12 can be formed into various shapes capable of transmitting the powdery medium.

[0055] As an example, the powder loading part 12 can be formed in the shape of a vessel that is convex on the lower side and concave on the upper side in order to efficiently transmit the powdery medium.

[0056] As another example, the powder loading section 12 can be formed in a flat shape.

[0057] The powder medium transmitted to the powder loading section 12 can be guided toward the air flow outlet 132 by the air flow flowing through the air flow passage 13.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the air flow sensor 14 can be arranged adjacent to the air flow passage 13. The air flow sensor 14 can detect the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity inside the air flow passage 13. The air flow sensor 14 may also include a pressure sensor (not shown), a flow rate sensor (not shown), and / or a flow velocity sensor (not shown).

[0059] The powder diffusion section 15 is a component that diffuses the powder medium transmitted to the powder loading section 12 toward the air flow passage 13.

[0060] Desirably, the powder diffusion section 15 can diffuse the powder medium transmitted to the powder loading section 12 downstream of the air flow flowing through the air flow passage 13, that is, in the direction toward the air flow outlet 132.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 1, the powder diffusion section 15 can be arranged below the powder loading section 12.

[0062] The powder diffusion section 15 can be physically contacted with the powder loading section 12.

[0063] In the present disclosure, the arrangement of the powder diffusion section 15 described with reference to the drawings is exemplary, and the position of the powder diffusion section 15 is not limited thereto. That is, the powder diffusion section 15 is arranged at various positions in order to diffuse the powder medium into the air flow passage, and such arrangements are also included in the scope of the present disclosure.

[0064] In the following, in order to avoid redundant description, specific descriptions related to the components that overlap with the description of one embodiment of the powder inhalation device 1 described with reference to FIG. 1 can be omitted.

[0065] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the powder inhaler 1 according to another embodiment.

[0066] According to this embodiment, the powder diffusing section also includes a vibration device 15a that applies vibration to the powder loading section 12.

[0067] The vibration applied by the vibration device 15a to the powder loading section 12 means a repetitive operation of vibrating the powder loading section 12 by a method such as shaking or tapping the powder loading section 12 according to a predetermined period.

[0068] The vibration device 15a can maximize the diffusion efficiency of the powder medium toward the air flow passage 13 by vibrating the powder loading section 12 and vibrating the powder medium.

[0069] Desirably, the vibration device 15a can vibrate the powder loading section 12 and diffuse the powder medium downstream of the air flow flowing through the air flow passage 13, that is, in the direction toward the air flow outlet 132.

[0070] According to this embodiment, the powder loading section 12 also includes a diaphragm (not shown). The diaphragm can be vibrated by the vibration generated by the vibration device 15a, transmit the vibration generated by the vibration device 15a to the powder medium, or be formed of a shape and material that can amplify the vibration generated by the vibration device 15a.

[0071] For example, the diaphragm can be formed in a thin-film structure.

[0072] The vibration device 15a according to this embodiment can be embodied by various methods and structures capable of vibrating the powder diffusing section 15.

[0073] For example, the vibration device 15a also includes a piezoelectric element (not shown) that can convert electrical energy into pressure.

[0074] As another example, the vibration device 15a can vibrate the powder diffusing section 15 by means of an ultrasonic vibration method.

[0075] As yet another example, the vibration device 15a includes a motor and a cam and can vibrate the powder diffusing section 15.

[0076] As yet another example, the vibration device 15a includes a solenoid type actuator and can vibrate the powder diffusing section 15.

[0077] The vibration frequency of the vibration device 15a is also in a variety of frequency ranges such as a low frequency between about 3 and 60 Hz and / or a high frequency between about 25 kHz and 2 MHz.

[0078] The control unit 20 can control the amplitude, frequency, etc. of the vibration applied by the vibration device 15a, control the intensity of the vibration, and control the diffusion amount of the powder medium.

[0079] As described above, the powder inhaler 1 can adjust the degree of diffusion of the powder medium by adjusting the amplitude and frequency of the vibration as necessary.

[0080] The powder inhaler 1 according to the present embodiment controls the concentration of the powder medium contained in the air flow by controlling the diffusion amount of the powder medium via the vibration device 15a, and supplies sufficient powder medium to the user according to the user's inhalation ability and / or inhalation timing, and can guarantee a reliable supply of the powder medium even when the user's inhalation ability is insufficient.

[0081] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a powder inhaler 1 according to yet another embodiment.

[0082] According to the present embodiment, the powder diffusing section also includes an impact device 15b that applies an impact to the powder loading section 12.

[0083] The impact applied by the impact device 15b to the powder loading section 12 can be generated by instantaneously contacting the powder loading section 12 once or several times, or by an operation of applying a blow.

[0084] The impact applied by the impact device 15b to the powder loading section 12 is different from the vibration of the vibration device 15a in FIG. 2 in which the same operation is periodically performed a plurality of times at a predetermined interval.

[0085] The impact device 15b can apply a physical impact to the powder loading section 12 and maximize the diffusion efficiency of the powder medium toward the air flow path 13.

[0086] Desirably, the impact device 15b can apply an impact to the powder loading section 12 and diffuse the powder medium in the downstream direction of the air flow flowing through the air flow path 13, that is, in the direction toward the air flow outlet 132.

[0087] As described above, the powder loading section 12 can be formed in a concave shape (i.e., convex downward). In that case, due to the impact applied by the powder diffusing section 15, the shape of the powder loading section 12 is temporarily deformed, and the powder medium in the powder loading section 12 can be more effectively diffused toward the air flow path 13.

[0088] The impact device 15b also includes, for example, a torsion spring and a switch. The torsion spring can be controlled to convert elastic potential energy into kinetic energy by being actuated by the switch and apply an impact to the powder diffusing section 15.

[0089] As another example, the impact device 15b also includes an electric motor (not shown). By using the electric motor and a power transmission section, rotational kinetic energy can be converted into linear kinetic energy, and an impact can be applied to the powder diffusing section 15, or a linear displacement can be generated by using a linear electric motor to apply an impact to the powder diffusing section 15.

[0090] The control unit 20 can adjust the frequency and intensity of the impact applied by the impact device 15b and control the diffusion amount of the powder medium.

[0091] The powder inhaler 1 according to the present embodiment can control the concentration of the powder medium contained in the air flow by controlling the diffusion amount of the powder medium via the impact device 15b, and can supply a sufficient amount of the powder medium to the user according to the user's inhalation ability and / or inhalation timing. Further, even when the user's inhalation ability is insufficient, a reliable supply of the powder medium can be guaranteed.

[0092] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a powder inhaler 1 according to still another embodiment.

[0093] According to the present embodiment, the powder diffusion unit also includes a blower 15c that generates a fluid flow.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 4, the blower 15c can be arranged at a position below the storage tank 11 and above the powder loading unit 12.

[0095] The blower 15c includes rotatable blades and can rotate the blades via the power supplied from the battery 30 to generate an air flow.

[0096] If the blower 15c generates an air flow directed toward the powder loading unit 12, the air flow promotes the mixing of the powder medium in the powder loading unit 12 and the air flowing through the air flow path 13.

[0097] Desirably, the blower 15c can generate an air flow downstream of the air flow flowing through the air flow path 13, that is, in the direction toward the air flow outlet 132.

[0098] The amount of the powder medium supplied to the air flow outlet 132 can be adjusted by the intensity of the air flow generated by the blower 15c.

[0099] The blower 15c can be arranged at various positions in order to generate an air flow toward the powder loading section 12. A regulator (not shown) whose opening area can be adjusted to adjust the flow rate and / or flow velocity of the air flow generated by the blower 15c can be provided at the outlet of the blower 15c.

[0100] The control unit 20 can adjust the intensity of the electric power supplied from the battery 30 to the blower 15c and control the diffusion amount of the powder medium. As another example, the control unit 20 can control the diffusion amount of the powder medium by adjusting the opening area of the regulator provided at the outlet of the blower 15c.

[0101] Since the powder inhalation device 1 according to the present embodiment can increase the flow rate and / or flow velocity of the air flow path 13 via the blower 15c, by increasing the amount of the powder medium supplied to the user, according to the inhalation ability and / or inhalation timing of the user, a sufficient amount of the powder medium can be supplied to the user, and even when the inhalation ability of the user is insufficient, a reliable supply of the powder medium can be guaranteed.

[0102] The powder diffusion section of the powder inhalation device 1 of the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 includes any one of the vibration device 15a, the impact device 15b, or the blower 15c for each embodiment, but the powder diffusion section may also include two or more components of the vibration device 15a, the impact device 15b, and the blower 15c in combination.

[0103] For example, the powder diffusion section may include the vibration device 15a and the blower 15c. In that case, the vibration device 15a can apply vibration to the powder loading section 12, and the blower 15c can diffuse the powder medium into the air flow path 13. The operations of the vibration device 15a and the blower 15c can be performed simultaneously. As another example, the powder diffusion section may include the vibration device 15a and the impact device 15b. In that case, the vibration device 15a can generate periodic vibration in the powder loading section 12 and diffuse the powder medium into the air flow path 13, and the impact device 15b can diffuse the powder medium into the air flow path 13. The operations of the vibration device 15a and the impact device 15b can be performed simultaneously.

[0104] Figure 5 is a schematic view of the powder inhaler 1 according to still another embodiment.

[0105] Referring to Figure 5, the powder diffusing portion 15 can be arranged adjacent to the storage tank 11. The powder diffusing portion 15 can be physically connected to the storage tank 11.

[0106] In the present embodiment, the powder diffusing portion 15 also includes a vibration device. According to the present embodiment, the vibration device can increase the amount of the powder medium transmitted to the powder loading portion 12 by vibrating the storage tank 11 and vibrating the powder medium accommodated inside the storage tank 11.

[0107] The operation mode of the vibration device according to the present embodiment can make reference to the content described with reference to Figure 2.

[0108] In the present embodiment, the powder diffusing portion 15 also includes an impact device. According to the present embodiment, the impact device included in the powder diffusing portion 15 applies a physical impact to the storage tank 11, drops the powder medium adhering to the inner wall of the storage tank 11, and moves the powder medium to the lower part of the storage tank 11 by gravity, so as to increase the amount of the powder medium transmitted to the powder loading portion 12.

[0109] The operation mode of the impact device according to the present embodiment can make reference to the content described with reference to Figure 3.

[0110] The powder inhaler 1 according to the present disclosure controls the concentration of the powder medium contained in the air flow by controlling the diffusion amount of the powder diffused from the inside of the storage tank 11 to the powder loading portion 12 via the vibration device or the impact device, and supplies sufficient powder medium to the user according to the inhalation ability and / or inhalation timing of the user, and can ensure a reliable supply of the powder medium even when the inhalation ability of the user is insufficient.

[0111] As another example, two or more powder diffusing parts 15 are provided. One powder diffusing part 15 is arranged adjacent to the storage tank 11, and the other powder diffusing part 15 can be arranged below the storage tank 11. That is, a plurality of powder diffusing parts 15 are arranged and can each perform a powder diffusing operation.

[0112] According to the above arrangement, the powder diffusing part 15 arranged adjacent to the storage tank 11 increases the amount of the powder medium inside the storage tank 11 diffused to the powder loading part 12, and the powder diffusing part 15 arranged below the storage tank 11 increases the amount of the powder medium diffused from the powder loading part 12 toward the air flow passage 13, and can increase the amount of the powder medium supplied to the user.

[0113] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a powder inhaler 1 according to an embodiment.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 6, the control unit 20 can be electrically connected to the air flow sensor 14, the powder diffusing part 15, the output part 16, and the battery 30.

[0115] The air flow sensor 14 also includes at least one of a pressure sensor 141, a flow rate sensor 142, and a flow velocity sensor 143, but is not limited thereto. Since the shape and structure of each sensor can be intuitively inferred from its name, specific descriptions can be omitted.

[0116] The pressure sensor 141 can sense the pressure of the air flow inside the air flow passage.

[0117] The flow rate sensor 142 can sense the flow rate of the air flow inside the air flow passage.

[0118] The flow velocity sensor 143 can sense the flow velocity of the air flow inside the air flow passage.

[0119] The air flow sensor 14 can sense the user's inhalation based on at least one of a pressure change, a flow rate change, and a flow velocity change.

[0120] The airflow sensor 14 can detect at least one physical quantity among the pressure, flow rate, and flow velocity of the airflow inside the air passage, and transmit a pressure signal, a flow rate signal, and / or a flow velocity signal to the control unit 20 based on the detected information.

[0121] The control unit 20 can control the overall operation of the powder inhalation device 1.

[0122] The control unit 20 can receive a signal from the airflow sensor 14 and operate the powder diffuser 15 based on the change in the airflow in the air passage 13.

[0123] The control unit 20 can operate the powder diffuser 15 based on the detected value of the physical quantity (pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity) detected by the signal of the airflow sensor 14.

[0124] In one embodiment, the control unit 20 also includes at least one processor (not shown). The processor can also be implemented by an array of a large number of logic gates, and can also be implemented by a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and a memory in which a program that can be executed by the microprocessor is stored. Also, the fact that the gai processor can be implemented by other forms of hardware can be understood by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which this embodiment belongs.

[0125] The control unit 20 can control the operation of the powder diffuser 15 by controlling the supply of the power of the battery 30 to the powder diffuser 15. For example, the control unit 20 can control the power supply by controlling the switching of the switching element between the battery 30 and the powder diffuser 15.

[0126] The control unit 20 can analyze the detected value of the physical quantity detected by the airflow sensor 14 and control the subsequent processes.

[0127] The control unit 20 can control the power supplied to the powder diffuser 15 so that the operation of the powder diffuser 15 is started or terminated based on the detected value of the physical quantity detected by the airflow sensor 14.

[0128] Based on the detection value of the physical quantity detected by the airflow sensor 14, the control unit 20 can control the amount of power supplied to the powder diffuser 15 and the time for which the power is supplied so as to operate the powder diffuser 15 and adjust the amount of the powder medium supplied to the user.

[0129] One embodiment may also be embodied in the form of a recording medium including computer-executable instructions such as program modules executed by a computer. A computer-readable medium is also any available medium that can be accessed by a computer, including both volatile and non-volatile media, removable and non-removable media. Also, a computer-readable medium includes both computer storage media and communication media. The computer storage media includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media embodied by any method or technology for the storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. The communication media typically includes modulated data signals such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data, or other transmission mechanisms, and includes any information delivery media.

[0130] The output unit 16 can output information related to the state of the powder inhaler 1 and provide it to the user. The output unit 16 includes at least one of a display unit, a haptic unit, and an acoustic output unit, but is not limited thereto. When the display unit is embodied as a touch screen in which a display device and a touch pad form a layer structure, the display unit can be used as an input device in addition to the output device.

[0131] The display unit can visually provide information related to the powder inhaler 1 to the user. For example, the information related to the powder inhaler 1 can mean various information such as the charging / discharging state of the battery 30 of the powder inhaler 1, the operating state of the powder diffusing unit 15, and the state in which the use of the powder inhaler 1 is restricted (e.g., foreign object detection in the air flow path), and the display unit can output the information to the outside. The display unit is, for example, also a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode display panel (OLED), etc. Further, the display unit is also in the form of an LED (light-emitting diode) light-emitting element.

[0132] The haptic unit can convert an electrical signal into a mechanical or electrical stimulus and provide information related to the powder inhaler 1 to the user tactilely. For example, the haptic unit also includes a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0133] The acoustic output unit can aurally provide information related to the powder inhaler 1 to the user. For example, the acoustic output unit can convert an electrical signal into an acoustic signal and output it to the outside.

[0134] The powder inhaler 1 further includes a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC (direct current) / DC converter) that converts the power of the battery 30 and supplies it to the air flow sensor 14, the powder diffusing unit 15, the output unit 16, and the control unit 20. Further, the powder inhaler 1 also further includes a DC / AC (alternating current) converter that converts the DC power supply of the battery 30 into an AC power supply.

[0135] The input unit can receive information input by the user and transmit the received information to the control unit 20. For example, the input unit may include a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (capacitive touch method, piezoresistive method, infrared sensing method, surface acoustic wave conduction method, integral tension measurement method, piezoelectric effect method, etc.), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0136] Further, the powder inhaler 1 further includes a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can be connected to other external devices via the connection interface such as the USB interface to transmit and receive information, or can charge the battery 30.

[0137] The input unit may further include a photo-plethysmogram censor (PPG sensor). The PPG sensor can be arranged outside the powder inhaler 1.

[0138] When the user holds the powder inhaler 1 to use it, the PPG sensor can transmit information related to the user's grip to the control unit 20.

[0139] The control unit 20 can receive information related to the user's grip from the PPG sensor and prepare for the operation of the powder inhaler 1.

[0140] The control unit 20 may include a memory (not shown) or may be communicably connected to the memory. The memory is hardware for storing various data processed within the powder inhaler 1, and can store data processed by the control unit 20 and data to be processed. The memory also includes at least one type of recording medium such as a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory (e.g., SD (secure digital) memory or XD (extreme digital) memory, etc.), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0141] The memory can store values of physical quantities related to the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity of the air flow path of the powder inhaler 1, the inhalation maintenance time, and the like.

[0142] The powder inhaler also includes a communication unit (not shown). The communication unit also includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit may include a short-range wireless communication unit and a wireless communication unit.

[0143] The short-distance communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication unit, a near field communication unit, a WLAN (wireless local area network) (Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity)) communication unit, a Zigbee communication unit, an infrared (IrDA: infrared data association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (ultra-wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, etc.

[0144] The wireless communication unit includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, a computer network (e.g., LAN (local area network) or WAN (wide area network)) communication unit, etc. The wireless communication unit can also use subscriber information (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) to identify and authenticate the powder inhaler 1 within the communication network.

[0145] The battery 30 can supply the power used for the operation of the powder inhaler 1. The battery 30 can supply the power required for the operation of components such as the airflow sensor 14, the powder diffuser 15, the output unit 16, and the control unit 20 provided within the powder inhaler 1.

[0146] The airflow sensor 14, the powder diffuser 15, the output unit 16, and the control unit 20 can be powered by the battery 30 to perform their functions.

[0147] The battery 30 can be a rechargeable battery or a single-use battery. For example, the battery 30 can be a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery, but is not limited thereto.

[0148] The powder inhaler 1 according to the present disclosure further includes a power conversion circuit that converts the power of the battery 30 and supplies it to each component, for example, an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit.

[0149] FIGS. 7 and 8 are graphs for explaining a method in which the powder inhaler 1 senses a user's inhalation intention, detects a physical quantity related to inhalation ability, and performs an inhalation assistance operation based on the detected physical quantity according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] In the description of the graphs illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, reference will be made to the components of the powder inhaler 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0151] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, when the user's inhalation ability is strong, the powder inhaler 1 operates the inhalation assistance operation for a short time and / or at a low intensity, and when the user's inhalation ability is weak, the inhalation assistance operation can be operated for a longer time and / or at a greater intensity. This will be described in detail below.

[0152] In FIGS. 7 and 8, two graphs, upper and lower, are illustrated. In the two graphs, the horizontal axis indicates time in both cases.

[0153] In FIGS. 7 and 8, the vertical axis of the upper graph indicates the magnitude of the physical quantity indicating the user's inhalation ability. The physical quantity indicating the user's inhalation ability is also a function (f1 = (pressure, flow rate, flow velocity)) with pressure, flow rate, and flow velocity as variables.

[0154] In FIGS. 7 and 8, the vertical axis of the lower graph indicates the intensity of the inhalation assistance operation. The intensity of the inhalation assistance operation is also a function (f2 = (vibration, impact, air blowing)) with the intensity of vibration, impact, and air blowing as variables.

[0155] The control unit 20 can determine the user's inhalation ability and control the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 based on it. Since the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 assists the user in inhaling the powder, it can be referred to as an "inhalation assistance function" or "inhalation assistance operation".

[0156] As described above, the inhalation assistance operation via the powder diffusing unit 15 can be performed through vibration, impact, and / or air blowing. That is, the inhalation assistance operation can be performed including at least one of vibration, impact, or air blowing.

[0157] When the user's inhalation is detected, the control unit 20 can determine the user's inhalation ability and control the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 according to the user's inhalation ability.

[0158] The control unit 20 compares a preset value with the detected value of the physical quantity indicating the user's inhalation ability, and based on the comparison result, can control the intensity and / or the duration of the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 so as to correspond to the user's inhalation ability.

[0159] When the user uses the powder inhaler 1, the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity of the internal air in the air flow path 13 are changed. The user's inhalation amount is also a function that takes the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity as variables. For example, the inhalation amount of the user using the powder inhaler 1 is proportional to the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity inside the air flow path 13.

[0160] The air flow sensor 14 detects the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity inside the air flow path 13, and when the detected values of the physical quantities of the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity detected by the signal of the air flow sensor 14 are equal to or greater than a preset first reference value, the control unit 20 can determine that the user's inhalation has started.

[0161] When it is determined that the user's inhalation has started, the control unit 20 can obtain the maximum value of the physical quantity detected by the signal of the air flow sensor 14.

[0162] The control unit 20 can determine a second reference value for operating the powder diffusing unit 15 based on the maximum value of the physical quantity of the airflow in the airflow passage 13 in order to control the powder diffusing unit 15 according to the user's inhalation ability.

[0163] The second reference value is also the value of the physical quantity that serves as the reference for the control unit 20 to operate the powder diffusing unit 15.

[0164] Figures 9 and 10 are flowcharts for explaining a method of controlling a powder inhaler according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0165] Hereinafter, with reference to Figures 9 and 10, a method of controlling the powder inhaler 1 according to the user's inhalation ability will be specifically described.

[0166] In the description of the control method of the powder inhaler 1 illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, reference will be made to the components of the powder inhaler 1 illustrated in Figures 1 to 6 and the graphs illustrated in Figures 7 and 8 for the description.

[0167] Figure 9 is a flowchart for explaining the process in which the control unit 20 of the powder inhaler 1 according to an embodiment measures the maximum value of the physical quantity of the airflow passage 13 based on the change in the physical quantity (pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity) of the airflow passage 13 detected by the airflow sensor 14, determines a second reference value based on the maximum value of the physical quantity of the airflow passage 13, and operates the powder diffusing unit 15 based on the second reference value.

[0168] Referring to Figure 9, in step S10, the airflow sensor 14 of the powder inhaler 1 can detect the physical quantity of the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity of the airflow in the airflow passage 13.

[0169] In step S11, the control unit 20 can determine whether the detected value of the physical quantity detected by the signal of the airflow sensor 14 is equal to or greater than a previously set first reference value.

[0170] The dimension or unit of the first reference value can be set according to the type of physical quantity (pressure, flow rate or flow velocity) that the airflow sensor 14 attempts to detect.

[0171] The first reference value can be used as a value for determining that the user has started inhalation using the powder inhaler 1. The first reference value can be set as a value for sensing the user's inhalation intention. That is, when it is measured that the detected value of the physical quantity in the air flow path 13 is equal to or greater than the first reference value, it can be considered that the user is using the powder inhaler 1 and attempting to inhale the powder.

[0172] For example, referring to the graphs of FIGS. 7 and 8, when the time reaches t1, the detected value of the physical quantity in the air flow path 13 detected by the airflow sensor 14 becomes equal to or greater than the first reference value, and from the time when the time is t1, it can be considered that the user attempts to start powder inhalation using the powder inhaler 1.

[0173] In step S11, when it is measured that the detected value of the physical quantity in the air flow path 13 is less than the first reference value, the control unit 20 can also compare the detected value of the physical quantity in the air flow path 13 with the first reference value according to the signal of the airflow sensor 14 (return to step S10).

[0174] In step S11, when it is measured that the detected value of the physical quantity in the air flow path 13 is equal to or greater than the first reference value, the control unit 20 can determine whether the user's "inhalation operation" has started and whether the user's "inhalation operation" is the "first inhalation" (step S12).

[0175] The "inhalation operation" can mean the user's operation during the period from when the physical quantity in the air flow path becomes equal to or greater than the first reference value, reaches the maximum value, and then the physical quantity is reduced to the first reference value.

[0176] The "inhalation operation" can mean the user's operation during the period when the user's inhalation intention is maintained.

[0177] "The first inhalation" means the first action of inhalation when the user inhales the powder using the powder inhaler device.

[0178] "The first inhalation" may mean the inhalation during the period from when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 becomes equal to or greater than the first reference value until it becomes less than the first reference value when the user does not use the powder inhaler device 1 for a predetermined time.

[0179] As another example, "the first inhalation" may mean the inhalation during the period from when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 becomes equal to or greater than the first reference value until it becomes less than the first reference value after the power of the powder inhaler device 1 is turned on.

[0180] As yet another example, "the first inhalation" may mean the inhalation during the period from when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 becomes equal to or greater than the first reference value until it becomes less than the first reference value after the information related to the user's grip is transmitted from the PPG sensor of the input unit to the control unit 20 when the user holds the powder inhaler device 1.

[0181] In step S13, if it is determined that the user's inhalation action is the first inhalation, the control unit 20 may obtain the maximum value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13.

[0182] In step S14, the control unit 20 may determine the second reference value based on the maximum value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 obtained in step S13.

[0183] For example, the control unit 20 may determine the second reference value to be proportional to the maximum value of the physical quantities of the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity of the air flow passage 13 detected by the signal of the air flow sensor 14.

[0184] Since the maximum value of the physical quantities of the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity of the air flow passage 13 is proportional to the user's inhalation ability, the second reference value may be determined in proportion to the user's inhalation ability.

[0185] In the S12 step, if it is determined that the user's inhalation operation is not the first inhalation, in the S15 step, the control unit 20 can determine whether the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 detected by the signal of the air flow sensor 14 is greater than or less than the second reference value determined in the S14 step.

[0186] In the S16 step, when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 is greater than or equal to the second reference value, the control unit 20 can operate the powder diffusing unit 15.

[0187] Subsequently, the control unit 20 can further determine whether the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 detected by the signal of the air flow sensor 14 is greater than or equal to the second reference value determined in the S14 step (that is, return to the S15 step).

[0188] In the S17 step, when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 is less than the second reference value, the control unit 20 can interrupt the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15.

[0189] The user can repeat the inhalation operation using the powder inhaler 1. Here, the control unit 20 can perform the operation of determining the second reference value based on the maximum value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 only when the user's inhalation operation is the first inhalation (S15 step). When the user's inhalation operation is not the first inhalation (that is, when the user's inhalation operation is the second inhalation or subsequent inhalations), the control unit 20 can determine the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 based on the second reference value determined in the S14 step.

[0190] After the first inhalation, the user can repeat the inhalation operation, and the control unit 20 can perform an inhalation assistance operation of diffusing the powdered medium transmitted to the powder loading unit 12 into the air flow path 13 by operating the powder diffusing unit 15 only while the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 is maintained greater than the second reference value among the inhalation operations repeated after the user's first breath.

[0191] Referring to the graphs of FIGS. 7 and 8, the control unit 20 can sense the user's inhalation operation at t1, measure the user's inhalation ability for the first inhalation, and determine the second reference value.

[0192] When the "first inhalation" is performed, the powder inhaler does not operate, and the user can inhale the powder using only their inhalation ability. Alternatively, in other embodiments, when the "first inhalation" is performed, the powder inhaler can assist the user in inhaling the powder by operating at a minimum intensity.

[0193] After the "first inhalation" is completed, a "second inhalation" in which the user further performs an inhalation operation can be advanced. While the "second inhalation" is being advanced, the control unit 20 can perform an inhalation assistance operation by operating the powder diffusing unit 15 from the time point after t2 when the "second inhalation" starts until t3.

[0194] For the sake of convenience, in the graphs of FIGS. 7 and 8, it is illustrated that the inhalation assistance operation is performed once (from t2 to t3) in the "second inhalation", but depending on the user's inhalation operation, the inhalation assistance operation based on the second reference value can be repeatedly performed.

[0195] The second reference value can be determined to be proportional to the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity inside the user's air passage 13. In this way, the powder diffusing unit 15 can operate at a relatively lower inhalation pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity when the user's inhalation pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity are relatively weak than when they are strong.

[0196] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the maximum value of the physical quantity illustrated in FIG. 7 is larger than the maximum value of the user's physical quantity illustrated in FIG. 8. The maximum value of the physical quantity can be proportional to the user's inhalation ability.

[0197] For example, in the case of a user with strong inhalation ability, the second reference value can be set to a high value, and in the case of a user with weak inhalation ability, the second reference value can be set to a low value. Therefore, in the case of a user with weak inhalation ability, based on the second reference value set to a low value, the powder diffusing unit 15 starts operating, so that the powder diffusing unit 15 can further assist the powder inhalation operation of the user with weak inhalation ability for a longer time.

[0198] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the inhalation assistance operation (i.e., the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15) can be performed during the time from t2 to t3. The time interval from t2 to t3 is formed longer as shown in FIG. 8 when the maximum value of the physical quantity is relatively small than when the maximum value of the physical quantity is relatively large as shown in FIG. 7. That is, the inhalation assistance operation can be made longer when the maximum value of the physical quantity is small.

[0199] Since the maximum value of the physical quantity can be proportional to the inhalation ability of the user, as shown in FIG. 8, when the inhalation ability of the user is weak, the inhalation assistance operation time (from t2 to t3) can be maintained longer than when the inhalation ability of the user is strong as shown in FIG. 7.

[0200] That is, the powder diffusing unit 15 can operate more negatively as the inhalation ability of the user is stronger, and can operate more positively as the inhalation ability of the user is weaker.

[0201] The powder diffusing unit 15 "operating more negatively" may mean that the intensity of the vibration generated by the powder diffusing unit 15 is set weak, or the time point at which the powder diffusing unit 15 starts operating is set late.

[0202] The powder diffusing unit 15 "operating more positively" may mean that the intensity of the vibration generated by the powder diffusing unit 15 is set strong, or the time point at which the powder diffusing unit 15 starts operating is set early.

[0203] In such a manner, for users with weak inhalation ability, a strong inhalation assistance operation can be performed, and for users with strong inhalation ability, a weak inhalation assistance operation can be performed. As a result, depending on the inhalation ability of the user of the powder inhaler 1, a sufficient amount of powder can be supplied to the user of the powder inhaler 1.

[0204] Since the powder diffusing unit 15 operates when the user performs an inhalation operation using the powder inhaler 1, powder can be supplied to the user in accordance with the user's inhalation timing.

[0205] If the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 is equal to or greater than the first reference value, it can be determined that the user has started an inhalation operation.

[0206] Even if the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 is equal to or greater than the first reference value, the powder diffusing unit 15 does not operate immediately. When the value becomes equal to or greater than the second reference value, the powder diffusing unit 15 operates, enabling reliable powder supply in accordance with the user's inhalation ability.

[0207] In addition, when the user's inhalation ability is at a certain level or higher, for example, when the user's inhalation ability exceeds the average value of adults and inhalation assistance operation is not required, there is no need to perform the inhalation assistance operation. Therefore, when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 sensed by the air flow sensor 14 is equal to or greater than a certain value, the control unit 20 does not operate the powder diffusing unit 15.

[0208] FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining a process in which the control unit 20 of the powder inhaler 1 according to an embodiment measures an inhalation maintenance time based on a change in the physical quantity (pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity) of the air flow passage 13 detected by the air flow sensor 14, determines a second reference value based on the inhalation maintenance time, and operates the powder diffusing unit 15 based on the second reference value.

[0209] In the following, in order to avoid redundant description, the description related to the content overlapping with the description of the control method of the powder inhaler 1 described with reference to FIG. 9 can be omitted.

[0210] Referring to FIG. 10, in step S20, the airflow sensor 14 of the powder inhaler 1 can detect physical quantities such as the pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity of the airflow in the airflow passage 13.

[0211] In step S21, the control unit 20 can determine whether the detected value of the physical quantity detected by the signal of the airflow sensor 14 is greater than or equal to a preset first reference value.

[0212] In step S21, if it is measured that the detected value of the physical quantity of the airflow passage 13 is less than the first reference value, the control unit 20 can further compare the detected value of the physical quantity of the airflow passage 13 detected by the signal of the airflow sensor 14 with the first reference value (return to step S20).

[0213] In step S21, if it is measured that the detected value of the physical quantity of the airflow passage 13 is greater than or equal to the first reference value, the control unit 20 can determine whether the user's "inhalation operation" has started and whether the user's "inhalation operation" is the "first inhalation" (step S22).

[0214] In step S22, if it is determined that the user's "inhalation operation" is the "first inhalation", the control unit 20 of the powder inhaler 1 can measure the time during which the detected value of the physical quantity of the airflow passage 13 detected by the sensor of the airflow sensor 14 is maintained above the first reference value (step S23).

[0215] At this time, in the "first inhalation", the time during which the detected value of the physical quantity of the airflow passage 13 is maintained above the first reference value can be referred to as the inhalation maintenance time.

[0216] That is, in the "first inhalation", the period from when the detected value of the physical quantity of the airflow passage 13 first reaches the first reference value, after the detected value reaches the maximum value, and then is reduced to the first reference value can be referred to as the inhalation maintenance time.

[0217] The stronger the user's inhalation ability, the longer the inhalation maintenance time can be maintained, so the inhalation maintenance time can be proportional to the inhalation ability.

[0218] As described above, the first reference value is a value for sensing the user's inhalation intention. Here, the inhalation maintenance time is also the time during which the powder inhalation intention using the user's powder inhaler 1 is maintained.

[0219] From another perspective, the inhalation maintenance time can be regarded as the time during which the inhalation operation is maintained.

[0220] In step S24, according to one embodiment, the control unit 20 of the powder inhaler 1 can determine a second reference value based on the inhalation maintenance time measured in the air flow path 13 in step S23.

[0221] For example, the control unit 20 can determine the second reference value to be proportional to the inhalation maintenance time.

[0222] Since the inhalation maintenance time of the air flow path 13 is proportional to the user's inhalation ability, the second reference value can be determined to be proportional to the user's inhalation ability.

[0223] For example, in the case of a user with strong inhalation ability, the second reference value is set to a high value, and in the case of a user with weak inhalation ability, the second reference value is set to a low value. Therefore, in the case of a user with weak inhalation ability, based on the second reference value set to a low value, the powder diffusion unit 15 starts to operate, so that the powder diffusion unit 15 can assist the powder inhalation operation of the user with weak inhalation ability for a longer time.

[0224] In step S22, if it is determined that the user's inhalation operation is not the user's "first inhalation", in step S25, the control unit 20 can determine whether the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 detected by the signal of the air flow sensor 14 is equal to or greater than the second reference value determined in step S24.

[0225] In step S26, when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 is equal to or greater than the second reference value, the control unit 20 can operate the powder diffusion unit 15.

[0226] Subsequently, the control unit 20 can further determine whether the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 detected by the signal of the air flow sensor 14 is equal to or greater than the second reference value determined in step S24 (that is, return to step S25).

[0227] In step S27, when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 is less than the second reference value, the control unit 20 can interrupt the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15.

[0228] The user can repeat the inhalation operation using the powder inhaler 1. Here, the control unit 20 performs the operation of determining the second reference value based on the maximum value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 only when the user's inhalation operation is "the first inhalation" (step S25). When the user's inhalation operation is not "the first inhalation" (that is, when the user's inhalation operation is "the second inhalation" or subsequent inhalations), the control unit 20 can determine the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 based on the second reference value determined in step S24.

[0229] After the first inhalation, the user can repeat the inhalation operation. After the user's first inhalation, during one inhalation operation, the control unit 20 can perform a powder inhalation assisting operation of diffusing the powdery medium transmitted to the powder loading unit 12 into the air flow passage 13 by operating the powder diffusing unit 15 only when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow passage 13 is maintained greater than the second reference value.

[0230] In such a manner, for users with weak inhalation ability, a strong inhalation assisting operation can be performed, and for users with strong inhalation ability, a weak inhalation assisting operation can be performed. As a result, a sufficient amount of powder can be supplied to the user of the powder inhaler 1 according to the inhalation ability of the user of the powder inhaler 1.

[0231] As described above, when the powder diffusing unit 15 operates, the powder inhaler 1 according to the present disclosure can supply sufficient powder to the user even when the user's inhalation ability is insufficient. Further, the powder inhaler 1 according to the present disclosure can supply sufficient powder to the user according to the user's inhalation ability.

[0232] In the above, the control method of the powder diffusing part 15 by the pressure, flow rate, flow velocity, or inhalation maintenance time of the air flow path 13 described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 may be carried out independently or may be carried out in combination.

[0233] The dimensions or units of the measurement target (pressure, flow rate, flow velocity, or inhalation time) of the user's inhalation ability and the criteria (pressure, flow rate, or flow velocity) of the intensity of the inhalation assistance operation may be different from each other.

[0234] For example, after measuring the user's inhalation ability based on the maximum value of the detection value of the pressure of the air flow path 13 detected by the air flow sensor 14, the control unit may determine a second reference value, which is the operation reference of the powder diffusing part 15, based on the flow velocity of the air flow path 13.

[0235] As another example, after measuring the user's inhalation ability in proportion to the inhalation maintenance time of the air flow path 13, the control unit 20 may determine the second reference value of the air flow path 13 based on the pressure of the air flow path 13.

[0236] The measurement target of the inhalation ability may be one or more, and the criteria for the intensity of the inhalation assistance operation may also be one or more. That is, the inhalation ability may also be a function of a plurality of variables, and the intensity of the inhalation assistance operation may also be a function of a plurality of variables.

[0237] For example, after considering both the maximum value of the pressure and the maximum value of the flow velocity of the air flow path 13, measuring the user's inhalation ability, and determining the reference pressure and the reference flow velocity, the control unit 20 may operate the powder diffusing part 15 when both the reference pressure and the reference flow velocity are reached.

[0238] As another example, after measuring the maximum value of the pressure and the inhalation maintenance time of the air flow path 13, the control unit 20 may determine the reference pressure based on them.

[0239] The measurement criteria for the inhalation ability and / or the setting of the criteria for the intensity of the inhalation assistance operation based on it can be deformed, combined, and selected in various ways.

[0240] FIG. 11 is a graph for explaining a method of supplying sufficient powder according to the inhalation ability of a user in one embodiment.

[0241] FIG. 11 is a graph for explaining a specific embodiment in which an inhalation assistance operation is performed based on a second reference value after the second reference value (pressure, flow rate, and / or flow velocity) is determined according to the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0242] Three graphs, an upper graph, a middle graph, and a lower graph, are illustrated in FIG. 11. In the three graphs, the horizontal axis indicates time in all cases.

[0243] In FIG. 11, the vertical axis of the upper graph indicates the magnitude of a physical quantity indicating the inhalation ability of the user. The physical quantity indicating the inhalation ability of the user is also a function (f1 = (pressure, flow rate, flow velocity)) with pressure, flow rate, and flow velocity as variables.

[0244] In FIG. 11, the vertical axis of the middle graph indicates the intensity of the inhalation assistance operation. The intensity of the inhalation assistance operation is also a function (f2 = (vibration, impact, air blowing)) with the intensities of vibration, impact, and air blowing as variables.

[0245] In FIG. 11, the vertical axis of the lower graph indicates the powder supply amount. The powder supply amount means the amount of powder actually supplied to the user by the inhalation assistance operation.

[0246] As described above, the inhalation assistance operation through the powder diffusing unit 15 can be performed by any one of or a combination of the vibration device 15a, the impact device 15b, and the blower 15c.

[0247] The control of the powder diffusion amount by the powder diffusing unit 15 can be controlled by adjusting the frequency or amplitude of vibration, adjusting the frequency and intensity of impact, or adjusting the intensity of air blowing or the opening area of the opening.

[0248] Referring to FIG. 11, the inhalation amount (pressure, flow rate and / or flow velocity) of a user using the powder inhaler 1 initially increases and then decreases after reaching the maximum value.

[0249] When the control unit 20 continuously operates the powder diffusing unit 15 with the same intensity, the powder inhalation assisting operation can be maintained only by the same intensity.

[0250] In that case, since the inhalation amount of the user increases and decreases over time, the powder supply amount to the user will not be constant.

[0251] Therefore, if the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 is controlled in consideration of the increase and decrease of the user's inhalation amount over time, a sufficient amount of powder can be provided to the user more effectively.

[0252] Referring to FIG. 11, the control unit 20 can control the powder diffusing unit 15 in consideration of the increase and decrease of the user's inhalation amount over time.

[0253] Specifically, the control unit 20 can control the intensity of the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 to gradually weaken from the time when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 detected by the air flow sensor 14 becomes equal to or greater than the second reference value until the detected value reaches the maximum value. Or, the control unit 20 can control the intensity of the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 to gradually increase from the time when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 reaches the maximum value until it is further reduced to the second reference value.

[0254] From another perspective, the control unit 20 can control the intensity of the operation of the powder diffusing unit 15 to be inversely proportional to the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow path 13 detected by the air flow sensor 14.

[0255] In such a manner, although the inhalation amount of the user increases and decreases over time, when the user's inhalation amount is weak, a strong inhalation assisting operation is performed, and when the user's inhalation amount is strong, a weak inhalation assisting operation is performed. As a result, the powder supply amount to the user can be maintained constant during one inhalation operation (see the lower graph in FIG. 11).

[0256] Therefore, the user of the powder inhaler 1 can be supplied with a sufficient amount of powder for each inhalation operation in accordance with the timing of the inhalation operation.

[0257] The descriptions according to the foregoing embodiments are merely exemplary, and those having ordinary knowledge in the relevant technical field will understand that various modifications and equivalent other embodiments are possible therefrom. Therefore, the true scope of protection of the invention is defined by the appended claims, and all differences within the scope equivalent to the content described in the claims should be construed as being included in the scope of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A storage tank for storing a powdery medium, A powder loading section for receiving the medium from the storage tank, An air flow passage through which an air flow containing a mixture of the medium transferred to the powder loading section and air flows, An air flow sensor for detecting a change in the air flow in the air flow passage, A powder diffusing section for diffusing the medium transferred to the powder loading section toward the air flow passage, A powder inhalation device comprising: a control section configured to receive a signal from the air flow sensor and operate the powder diffusing section based on a change in the air flow in the air flow passage.

2. The air flow sensor detects at least one physical quantity among the pressure, flow rate, and flow velocity of the air flow in the air flow passage, When the detected value of the physical quantity detected by the air flow sensor is equal to or greater than a first reference value, the control section obtains the maximum value of the physical quantity of the air flow in the air flow passage based on the signal of the air flow sensor. The powder inhalation device according to claim 1.

3. The control section, Based on the maximum value of the physical quantity of the air flow in the air flow passage, determines a second reference value for operating the powder diffusing section, When the detected value of the air flow detected by the signal of the air flow sensor is equal to or greater than the second reference value, the powder diffusing section is operated, and when the detected value of the air flow detected by the signal of the air flow sensor is less than the second reference value, the operation of the powder diffusing section is interrupted. The powder inhalation device according to claim 2.

4. The air flow sensor detects at least one physical quantity among the pressure, flow rate, and flow velocity of the air flow in the air flow passage, The control section measures the inhalation maintenance time during which the detected value of the physical quantity detected by the signal of the air flow sensor is maintained at or above a first reference value. The powder inhalation device according to claim 1.

5. The control section, Based on the inhalation maintenance time, determines a second reference value for operating the powder diffusing section, When the detected value of the air flow detected by the signal of the air flow sensor is equal to or greater than the second reference value, the powder diffusing section is operated, and when the detected value is less than the second reference value, the operation of the powder diffusing section is interrupted. The powder inhalation device according to claim 4.

6. The powder loading section includes a diaphragm for vibrating the medium, The powder diffusing section includes a vibrating device for vibrating the diaphragm and diffusing the medium transferred to the powder loading section toward the air flow passage. The powder inhalation device according to claim 1.

7. The powder diffusing part includes an impact device that applies a physical impact to the powder loading part and diffuses the medium transmitted to the powder loading part toward the air flow passage. The powder inhaler according to claim 1.

8. The powder diffusing part includes a blower that generates an air flow and diffuses the medium transmitted to the powder loading part toward the air flow passage. The powder inhaler according to claim 1.

9. In a method for controlling a powder inhaler, a suction ability measuring step of detecting a change in the air flow in an air flow passage that fluidly communicates a powder loading part through which a powdery medium is transmitted and the powder inhaler with the outside; a powder inhalation assisting step of operating a powder diffusing part based on the change in the air flow in the air flow passage and diffusing the medium transmitted to the powder loading part toward the air flow passage. A method for controlling a powder inhaler, including.

10. The suction ability measuring step is detect at least one physical quantity of pressure, flow rate, and flow velocity of the air flow in the air flow passage, and when the detected value of the detected physical quantity is equal to or greater than a first reference value, obtain the maximum value of the physical quantity of the air flow in the air flow passage. The method for controlling a powder inhaler according to claim 9.

11. The suction ability measuring step determines a second reference value based on the maximum value of the physical quantity of the air flow in the air flow passage, In the powder inhalation assisting step, when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow in the air flow passage is equal to or greater than the second reference value, the powder diffusing part is operated, and when the detected value of the physical quantity in the air flow passage is less than the second reference value, the operation of the powder diffusing part is interrupted. The method for controlling a powder inhaler according to claim 10.

12. The suction ability measuring step is detect at least one physical quantity of pressure, flow rate, and flow velocity of the air flow in the air flow passage, and measure the inhalation maintenance time during which the detected value of the detected physical quantity is maintained at or above a first reference value. The method for controlling a powder inhaler according to claim 9.

13. The suction ability measuring step determines a second reference value for operating the powder diffusing part based on the inhalation maintenance time, In the powder inhalation assisting step, when the detected value of the physical quantity of the air flow in the air flow passage is equal to or greater than the second reference value, the powder diffusing part is operated, and when the detected value is less than the second reference value, the operation of the powder diffusing part is interrupted. The method for controlling a powder inhaler according to claim 12.

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