Inhaler article having powder leakage protection

Abstract

The present invention relates to an inhaler article having an upstream section. A penetrable capsule containing powder is disposed within the upstream section. The inhaler article further comprises a downstream section. The downstream section is in fluid connection with the upstream section via an air inlet disposed in the proximal end wall of the downstream section. The downstream section comprises an air outlet disposed in the distal portion of the downstream section. The inlet to the air outlet is disposed proximally at a distance from the distal end wall of the downstream section. The present invention further relates to an inhaler article holder, and an inhaler system comprising the inhaler article and the inhaler article holder.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inhaler article. The present invention further relates to an inhaler article holder and an inhaler system comprising an inhaler article and an inhaler article holder.

Background Art

[0002] An inhaler system comprising an inhaler article holder that can be combined with an inhaler article containing a capsule is known. The inhaler article holder may be used to activate the inhaler article by piercing the capsule using a piercing element. Particles may be released from the capsule as air flow is drawn or created around the pierced capsule. Thus, the inhaler system delivers dry powder particles to the consumer. The inhaler article holder is separate from the inhaler article, but the consumer uses both the inhaler article and the inhaler article holder while consuming the dry powder particles released within the inhaler article. A plurality of these inhaler articles may be combined with the inhaler article holder to form a system or kit. A single inhaler article holder may be used with a plurality of inhaler articles to activate (pierce or penetrate) the capsules contained within each inhaler article.

[0003] It would be desirable to have an inhaler article with powder leakage protection. It would be desirable to have an inhaler article with reliable powder delivery. It would be desirable to have an inhaler system with powder leakage protection.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an inhaler article is provided that comprises an upstream section. A pierceable capsule containing powder is disposed within the upstream section. The inhaler article further comprises a downstream section. The downstream section is in fluid connection with the upstream section via an air inlet disposed in the proximal end wall of the downstream section. The downstream section comprises an air outlet disposed at the distal portion of the downstream section. The inlet to the air outlet is disposed proximally at a distance from the distal end wall of the downstream section.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005]

Fig. 1A

Fig. 1B

Figs. 2A-2C

Fig. 3A

Fig. 3B

Figs. 4A-4C

Fig. 5

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0006] The present invention will be further described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. According to one embodiment of the present invention, an inhaler article that may include an upstream section is provided. A penetrable capsule containing powder may be disposed within the upstream section. The inhaler article may further include a downstream section. The downstream section may be in fluid connection with the upstream section via an air intake disposed on the proximal end wall of the downstream section. The downstream section may include an air outlet disposed at the distal portion of the downstream section. The inlet to the air outlet may be disposed proximally at a distance from the distal end wall of the downstream section.

[0007] When the air outlet is disposed proximally at a distance from the distal end wall of the downstream section, powder leakage from the air outlet is prevented and instead collected between the distal end wall of the downstream section and the air outlet. Powder leakage can be particularly problematic when the user rotates the inhaler article during use or between uses, and the arrangement of the air outlet described herein solves this leakage problem or at least reduces powder leakage in this situation.

[0008] The air outlet may comprise an outlet extension axis. An outlet angle of at least 5°, preferably at least 10°, more preferably at least 15°, and most preferably at least 20° may be provided between the outlet extension axis and the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article.

[0009] In other words, the air outlet may be inclined. The air outlet may be inclined away from the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The inclination of the air outlet may reduce leakage of powder through the air outlet. Further, tilting the air outlet can create a swirling vortex within the air stream, which can improve delivery of the powder to the consumer.

[0010] The air outlet may be inclined such that the air flowing out of the outlet mainly flows at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. This can be beneficial as the air carrying the powder can be directed in a desired manner, for example, mainly towards the user's tongue or throat.

[0011] The air inlet may comprise an inlet extension axis. An inlet angle of at least 5°, preferably at least 10°, more preferably at least 15°, and most preferably at least 20° may be provided between the inlet extension axis of the inhaler article and the longitudinal axis.

[0012] In other words, the air inlet may be inclined. The air inlet may be tilted away from the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The inclination of the air inlet may reduce leakage of powder through the air inlet. Further, tilting the air inlet can create a swirling vortex within the air stream, which can improve delivery of the powder to the consumer.

[0013] Similar to the inclination of the air outlet, the air inlet may be inclined to affect the air stream directed towards the user in a desired manner.

[0014] The air outlet may be inclined towards the first side wall of the inhaler article, preferably towards the first side wall of the downstream section of the inhaler article. The air inlet may be inclined towards the second side wall of the inhaler article, preferably towards the second side wall of the downstream section of the inhaler article. The first side wall may be disposed on the opposite side of the second side wall.

[0015] In other words, the air outlet may be inclined towards one side wall or the first side wall, while the air inlet may be inclined towards the opposite side wall or the second side wall. The inclination of both sides of the air inlet and the air outlet can prevent powder leakage. The reason is that when the air outlet is inclined to the opposite side of the air inlet, a straight line cannot be drawn from the air outlet to the air inlet. By preventing a straight line between the air outlet and the air inlet, it may lead to a reduction in leakage when the device rotates during use.

[0016] The air outlet may be offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article.

[0017] In other words, the outlet extension axis may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article and may be at a distance from the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. By providing an air outlet offset from the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, powder leakage from the air outlet can be prevented or reduced.

[0018] The air inlet may be offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article.

[0019] In other words, the inlet extension axis may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article and may be at a distance from the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. By providing an air inlet offset from the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, powder leakage from the air inlet can be prevented or reduced.

[0020] The air inlet and the air outlet may each be offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. In other words, the air outlet may be offset laterally with respect to the air inlet. The air inlet may be offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article in a lateral direction opposite to that of the air outlet. This arrangement may lead to preventing a straight line between the air inlet and the outlet. Thereby, powder leakage can be reduced.

[0021] The air outlet may comprise an outlet blocking wall. The outlet blocking wall may be arranged so that a straight line is not drawn from the air outlet to the air inlet.

[0022] When the air outlet is offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, the outlet blocking wall may be arranged facing the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The outlet blocking wall may be inclined. The outlet blocking wall may be inclined so as to be away from the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article.

[0023] The air inlet may comprise an inlet blocking wall. The inlet blocking wall may be arranged so that a straight line is not drawn from the air inlet to the air outlet.

[0024] When the air inlet is offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, the inlet blocking wall may be arranged facing the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The inlet blocking wall may be inclined. The inlet blocking wall may be inclined so as to be away from the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article.

[0025] The outlet of the air inlet may be arranged at a distance distally from the proximal end wall of the downstream section.

[0026] When the consumer rotates the inhaler article during use or between uses, this arrangement of the outlet of the air inlet can prevent powder from leaking out of the air inlet.

[0027] The inlet to the air outlet may be disposed proximally at a distance from the distal end wall of the downstream section such that a trough may be formed adjacent to the distal end wall of the downstream section for excess powder.

[0028] The trough may be used to collect powder and thus prevent or reduce powder leakage. The air outlet may be surrounded by the trough. The trough may be disposed coaxially with the air outlet. The air outlet may be disposed at the center of the trough. The air outlet may be higher compared to the base of the trough. The base of the trough may be formed by the distal end wall of the downstream section. The peripheral sidewall of the trough may be formed by the sidewall of the downstream section. The inner sidewall of the trough may be formed by the raised air outlet.

[0029] When the air inlet is disposed distally at a distance from the proximal end wall of the downstream section, a similar trough may be formed surrounding the air inlet. In the case of rotation of the inhaler article, the powder may be retained within the trough surrounding the air inlet or the trough surrounding the air outlet, so that the powder may be retained from leaking out of the downstream section.

[0030] The trough may have a capacity of at least 10% of the powder contained within the article.

[0031] The downstream section may further comprise a central column extending distally from the proximal end wall of the downstream section.

[0032] The central column may prevent powder from falling through the air outlet when the inhaler article rotates. The central column may be disposed above the air outlet. The central column may be disposed at a distance from the air outlet such that air can flow laterally into the air outlet between the air outlet and the central column. The central column may be suspended and disposed above the air outlet. The central column may be attached to something attached to the proximal end wall of the downstream section. The air inlet may be disposed adjacent to the central column of the proximal end wall of the downstream section.

[0033] The proximal end wall of the downstream section may be the separation wall between the downstream sections in the upstream section. The proximal end wall of the downstream section may be the distal end wall in the upstream section. The proximal end wall of the downstream section may be disposed between the downstream sections of the upstream section. The proximal end wall of the downstream section may separate the inhaler article into compartments of similar size. These compartments of similar size may be the downstream section and the upstream section.

[0034] The proximal end wall of the downstream section may be provided with an opening. The air inlet may form the opening. The air inlet may enable air to be drawn from the upstream section to the downstream section. The proximal end wall of the downstream section having the air inlet may create a separation between the upstream section and the downstream section. The air inlet may enable powder from a capsule disposed within the upstream section to be drawn into the downstream section.

[0035] The central column may be solid. This may prevent powder from falling through the central column. Alternatively, the central column may be hollow. However, in this case, the side walls as well as the distal end of the central column are preferably closed. The proximal end of the central column may be attached to the proximal end wall of the downstream section and may thus be closed.

[0036] The outer diameter of the central column may be larger than the inner diameter of the air outlet.

[0037] This may efficiently prevent powder from reaching the air outlet and leaking out of the air outlet when the user is not inhaling.

[0038] The distal end of the central column may be conical.

[0039] This may increase the amount of powder drawn through the air outlet when the user inhales.

[0040] The central column may be connected to the air outlet.

[0041] This arrangement may close access to the air outlet in the region of the connection between the central column and the air outlet. Thus, a location where air can flow into the air outlet can be defined, and air can be prevented from flowing into the air outlet from all lateral directions. This arrangement can be particularly beneficial when one or both of the air inlet and the air outlet are inclined. This arrangement can also be particularly beneficial when one or both of the air inlet and the air outlet are offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. In all these cases, the side surface of the air outlet facing the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article may be closed by the connection between the central column and the air outlet. The side surface of the air outlet facing the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article is preferably the side surface of the air outlet facing the air inlet.

[0042] The air outlet may have a laterally facing inlet. The laterally facing inlet may be arranged in a direction opposite to the direction towards the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. In other words, the laterally facing inlet may face the side wall of the inhaler article. In other words, the laterally facing inlet may face outwards.

[0043] A part of the central column connecting the central column to the air outlet may be chamfered.

[0044] The present invention further relates to an inhaler article holder having a cavity configured to receive the inhaler article described herein. The inhaler article holder may comprise a penetrating element for penetrating the capsule.

[0045] The penetrating element may be a pin. The penetrating element may be slidable. The penetrating element may reach into the cavity. The penetrating element may be disposed so as to be retractable from the cavity. The penetrating element may be disposed to slide into the cavity to penetrate a capsule of an inhaler article disposed in the cavity. The penetrating element may be disposed so as to be retractable from the cavity after penetrating the capsule of the inhaler article. The penetrating element may be disposed aligned centrally within the cavity. The penetrating element may be disposed along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. Alternatively, the penetrating element may be disposed offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The longitudinal axis of the inhaler article may be the same as the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article holder.

[0046] The penetrating element may be disposed at the base of the cavity. The penetrating element may be disposed within the opening of the base of the cavity. The penetrating element may be disposed so as to be retractable through the opening of the base of the cavity.

[0047] The inhaler article holder may be configured to receive an inhaler article. The inhaler article holder may be configured to be used with a number of inhaler articles. After the inhaler article is depleted, an unused inhaler article may be received within the cavity of the inhaler article holder.

[0048] The present invention further relates to an inhaler system comprising an inhaler article as described herein and an inhaler article holder as described herein.

[0049] During user inhalation, dry powder particles may exit the capsule through an opening within the capsule. The dry powder particles may be entrained in the inhalation airflow to the consumer. The opening within the capsule may be created by the penetrating element. Prior to use, the capsule may be hermetically sealed.

[0050] The inhalable powder of the capsule of the inhaler article may contain various active agents. The active agent may contain, for example, alkaloids such as nicotine or anatabine or anabasine. Preferably, the active agent contains a solid salt of an alkaloid such as a nicotine salt.

[0051] The amount of the active agent can be selected based on the desired or intended use of the inhalable dry powder. For example, the amount of the active agent can be 0.5 wt% to 10 wt% of the total weight of the dry powder particles. The dry powder particles can contain 0.5 wt% or more, 1 wt% or more, 2 wt% or more, or 3 wt% or more of the active agent, and 12 wt% or less, 10 wt% or less, 9 wt% or less, 8 wt% or less, or 7 wt% or less of the active agent, or 0.5 wt% to 10 wt%, 1 wt% to 8 wt%, 1.5 wt% to 6 wt%, or 2 wt% to 5 wt% of the active agent.

[0052] The dry powder particles can contain 0.5 wt% or more, 1 wt% or more, 2 wt% or more, or 3 wt% or more of nicotine, and 12 wt% or less, 10 wt% or less, 9 wt% or less, 8 wt% or less, or 7 wt% or less of nicotine, or 0.5 wt% to 10 wt%, 1 wt% to 8 wt%, 1.5 wt% to 6 wt%, or 2 wt% to 5 wt% of nicotine.

[0053] The amount of the active agent can be selected for each dose. The inhalable powder can be packaged in a single dosage form or multiple dosage forms. For example, the inhalable powder can contain 0.5 mg or more, 1 mg or more, 2 mg or more, or 5 mg or more of the active agent per dose. The inhalable powder can contain 500 mg or less, 200 mg or less, 100 mg or less, 50 mg or less, 20 mg or less, or 10 mg or less of the active agent per dose. In some embodiments, the inhalable powder contains 0.01 to 10 mg of anatabine or nicotine or anabasine per dose, 0.05 to 5 mg of anatabine or nicotine or anabasine per dose, or 0.1 to 1 mg of anatabine or nicotine or anabasine per dose.

[0054] In an embodiment, the capsule contains 1 to 20 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 1 to 10 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 10 to 20 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 1 dose. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 2 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 3 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 4 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 5 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 6 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 7 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 8 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 9 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 10 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 11 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 12 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 13 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 14 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 15 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 16 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 17 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 18 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 19 doses. In an embodiment, the capsule contains 20 doses.

[0055] The dry powder particles can have a particle size in the range of 20 micrometers or less, 10 micrometers or less, or 5 micrometers or less, or 0.1 micrometer or more, 0.2 micrometer or more, or 0.5 micrometer or more, or 0.5 micrometer to 10 micrometers, or 0.75 micrometer to 5 micrometers, or 1 micrometer to 5 micrometers, or 1 micrometer to 3 micrometers, or 1.5 micrometers to 2.5 micrometers. The desired particle size range can be achieved by spray drying, grinding, sieving, or a combination thereof.

[0056] The dry powder particles may be further mixed with a second population of particles to form a powder system. Preferably, the second population of particles has a particle size that is different from or larger than the dry powder particles. For example, the second population of particles may have a particle size in the range of about 20 micrometers or more, or about 50 micrometers or more, up to 200 micrometers, up to 150 micrometers, or from 50 micrometers to 200 micrometers, or from 50 micrometers to 150 micrometers. The second population of particles may have any useful size distribution for selective inhalation delivery into the user's mouth or oral cavity. The larger second population of flavorant particles may assist in the delivery of the dry powder particles into the user's inhalation airstream.

[0057] The dry powder particles and the second population of particles may be combined in any useful relative amounts such that the second population of particles is detected by the user when consumed with the dry powder particles. Preferably, the dry powder particles and the second population of particles form at least about 90 wt%, or at least about 95 wt%, or at least about 99 wt%, or 100 wt% of the total weight of the powder system.

[0058] The dry powder particles may be mixed with a second population of flavorant particles to form a powder system. Preferably, the second population of flavorant particles has a particle size that is different from or larger than the dry powder particles. For example, the flavor particles may have a particle size in the range of about 20 micrometers or more, or about 50 micrometers or more, up to 200 micrometers, up to 150 micrometers, or from 50 micrometers to 200 micrometers, or from 50 micrometers to 150 micrometers. The second population of flavorant particles may have any useful size distribution for selective inhalation delivery into the user's mouth or oral cavity. The larger second population of flavorant particles may assist in the delivery of the dry powder particles into the user's inhalation airstream.

[0059] The dry powder particles and the second population of flavor particles may be combined in any useful relative amounts such that the second population of flavor particles is detectable by a user when consumed along with the dry powder particles.Preferably, the dry powder particles and the second population of flavor particles form at least about 90% by weight, or at least about 95% by weight, or at least about 99% by weight, or 100% by weight of the total weight of the powder system.

[0060] The dry powder particles or powder system may be provided in a suitable dosage form. For example, the dry powder particles or powder system may be provided in a capsule. The dosage form (e.g., capsule) may be configured for use in a suitable inhaler. For example, the capsule may be utilized in an inhaler device having a capsule cavity. Airflow management through the capsule cavity of the inhaler device may cause the capsule contained therein to rotate during inhalation and consumption. The capsule may contain the dry powder particles or powder system.

[0061] Unless otherwise stated, the term "particle size" is used herein to refer to the mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of a particle or set of particles. Such a value is the mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of a particle or set of particles that has the same aerodynamic behavior as the particle being characterized. 3 The aerodynamic particle size distribution is based on the aerodynamic particle size distribution, which is defined as the diameter of a sphere having a density of 100 nm.

[0062] In particular, powder systems generally refer to the mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD), which is one of the most widely adopted indicators as a single numerical descriptor of the aerodynamic particle size distribution. MMAD is a statistically derived numerical value for a particle sample, and as an example, an MMAD of 5 micrometers means that 50 percent of the total sample mass is in particles having an aerodynamic diameter less than 5 micrometers, and the remaining 50 percent of the total sample mass is in particles having an aerodynamic diameter greater than 5 micrometers. In the context of the present invention, when describing a powder system, the term "particle size" preferably refers to the MMAD of the powder system.

[0063] The MMAD of the powder system is preferably measured using a cascade impactor. A cascade impactor is a device widely used for sampling and separating airborne particles to determine the aerodynamic size classification of aerosol particles. In fact, a cascade impactor separates the incoming sample into individual fractions based on particle inertia, which is a function of particle size, density, and velocity. A cascade impactor typically comprises a series of stages, each of which comprises a plate having a specific nozzle arrangement and a collection surface. As the number of stages increases, both the nozzle size and the total nozzle area decrease, so the velocity of the air containing the sample increases as it progresses through the device. At each stage, particles having sufficient inertial force deviate from the main air stream and impinge on the collection surface. Thus, at any given flow rate, each stage is associated with a cut-off diameter (a numerical value defining the size of the particles collected). As the number of stages increases, the velocity increases, so the stage cut-off diameter decreases. Therefore, the cut-off diameter associated with a given stage is a function of the air flow rate used in the test. To reflect the performance during use, the nebulizer is preferably tested regularly at 15 L / min, and the dry powder inhaler may be tested at a flow rate of up to 100 L / min.

[0064] In the context of the present invention, the MMAD of the powder system is preferably measured using a Next Generation Impactor (NGI) 170 (available from Copley Scientific AG). The NGI is a high-performance and high-precision particle classification cascade impactor having seven stages and a Micro-Orifice Collector (MOC). The characteristics and operating principle of the NGI are described, for example, in Marple et al., Journal of Aerosol Medicine - Volume 16, Number 3 (2003). The measurement is more preferably carried out at 20 ± 3 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 35 ± 5 percent.

[0065] Dry powder formulations typically contain up to about 15 weight percent water, preferably up to about 10 percent water, and even more preferably up to about 6 weight percent water. The dry powder formulation most preferably contains up to about 5 weight percent water, or up to about 3 weight percent water, or up to about 1 weight percent water.

[0066] All values reported as percentages are presumed to be weight percentages based on the total weight.

Examples

[0067] The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more of the features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0068] Example 1. An inhaler article, An upstream section in which a penetrable capsule containing powder is disposed in the upstream section, A downstream section fluidly connected to the upstream section via an air inlet disposed in the proximal end wall of the downstream section, comprising: An inhaler article, wherein the downstream section comprises an air outlet disposed in the distal portion of the downstream section, and the inlet to the air outlet is disposed proximally at a distance from the distal end wall of the downstream section. Example 2. The inhaler article according to Example 1, wherein the air outlet comprises an outlet extension axis, and an outlet angle of at least 5°, preferably at least 10°, more preferably at least 15°, and most preferably at least 20° is provided between the outlet extension axis and the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. Example 2a. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 2, wherein the inner length of the downstream section, together with the selected outlet angle, can prevent the powder from falling from the air outlet. Example 3. The air inlet has an inlet extension axis, and an inlet angle of at least 5°, preferably at least 10°, more preferably at least 15°, and most preferably at least 20° is provided between the inlet extension axis and the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 2a. Example 3a. The inner length of the downstream section, together with the selected inlet angle, can prevent the powder from falling from the air inlet. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 3. Example 4. The air outlet is angled towards the first side wall of the inhaler article, the air inlet is angled towards the second side wall of the inhaler article, and the first side wall is disposed on the opposite side of the second side wall. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 3a. Example 5. The air outlet is offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 4. Example 6. The air inlet is offset with respect to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 5. Example 7. The air outlet is laterally offset with respect to the air inlet. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 6. Example 8. The air outlet has an outlet blocking wall, and the outlet blocking wall is disposed so that a straight line cannot be drawn from the air outlet to the air inlet. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 7. Example 9. The air inlet has an inlet blocking wall, and the inlet blocking wall is disposed so that a straight line cannot be drawn from the air inlet to the air outlet. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 8. Example 10. The outlet of the air inlet is disposed distally from the proximal end wall of the downstream section. The inhaler article according to any one of Examples 1 to 9. Example 11. The inhaler article according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the inlet to the air outlet is disposed at a distance proximally from the distal end wall of the downstream section such that a trough is formed adjacent to the distal end wall of the downstream section for excess powder. Embodiment 12. The inhaler article according to embodiment 11, wherein the trough has a volume of at least 10% of the powder contained in the article. Embodiment 13. The inhaler article according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the downstream section further comprises a central column extending distally from the proximal end wall of the downstream section. Embodiment 14. The inhaler article according to embodiment 13, wherein the central column is solid. Embodiment 15. The inhaler article according to any one of embodiments 13 and 14, wherein the outer diameter of the central column is larger than the inner diameter of the air outlet. Embodiment 16. The inhaler article according to any one of embodiments 13 to 15, wherein the distal end of the central column is conical. Embodiment 17. The inhaler article according to any one of embodiments 13 to 16, wherein the central column is connected to the air outlet. Embodiment 18. The inhaler article according to embodiment 17, wherein the air outlet has a laterally facing inlet. Embodiment 19. The inhaler article according to any one of embodiments 17 and 18, wherein a part of the central column connecting the central column to the air outlet is chamfered. Embodiment 20. An inhaler article holder having a cavity configured to receive an inhaler article according to any one of embodiments 1 to 19, the inhaler article holder comprising a penetrating element for penetrating a capsule. Embodiment 21. An inhaler system comprising an inhaler article according to any one of embodiments 1 to 19 and an inhaler article holder according to embodiment 20.

[0069] Features described with respect to one embodiment may equally apply to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 1B schematically shows the inhaler article 10 and the inhaler article holder 12. The inhaler article 10 is received within the cavity of the inhaler article holder 12.

[0071] The inhaler article 10 includes a proximal opening 14 disposed at the proximal end 16 of the inhaler article 10. The proximal opening 14 is received within the cavity of the inhaler article holder 12. Air can be drawn into the inhaler article 10 through the proximal opening 14. The proximal opening 14 may further enable insertion of a through element of the inhaler article holder 12 into the inhaler article 10.

[0072] The inhaler article 10 includes an upstream section 18 and a downstream section 20. A capsule 22 containing inhalable powder is disposed within the upstream section 18. The capsule 22 may be penetrated by inserting a through element of the inhaler article holder 12 into the upstream section 18 of the inhaler article 10.

[0073] A separating wall 24 is disposed between the upstream section 18 and the downstream section 20 of the inhaler article 10. The separating wall 24 is the proximal wall of the downstream section 20 and the distal wall of the upstream section 18. The separating wall 24 prevents the capsule 22 from entering the downstream section 20. In other words, the separating wall 24 holds the capsule 22 within the upstream section 18.

[0074] An air inlet 26 is formed within the separating wall 24. The air inlet 26 enables air to be drawn from the upstream section 18 into the downstream section 20 as shown by the arrow in Figure 1B. The air inlet 26 is arranged to prevent or reduce powder leakage when the inhaler article 10 is rotated during use or between uses.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 1A, the extension axis 28 of the air inlet 26 is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis 30 of the inhaler article 10. Further, the air inlet 26 includes an air inlet blocking wall 32 facing the longitudinal axis 30 of the inhaler article 10. The air inlet blocking wall 32, together with the inclined configuration of the air inlet 26, prevents powder from leaking from the air inlet 26 toward the air outlet 34 of the downstream section 20.

[0076] The air outlet 34 of the downstream section 20 is also inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis 30 of the inhaler article 10, similar to the inclination of the air inlet 26. As shown in FIG. 1A, the air outlet 34 also has an extension axis 36 that is inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis 30 of the inhaler article 10. The air outlet 34 is inclined in a direction opposite to the inclination of the air inlet 26. As can be seen in FIG. 1A, the air outlet 34 is inclined toward the first side wall 38 of the downstream section 20, while the air inlet 26 is inclined toward the second side wall 40 on the opposite side of the downstream section 20. Further, the air outlet 34 includes an air outlet blocking wall 42 facing the longitudinal axis 30 of the inhaler article 10.

[0077] Due to the opposite inclinations of the proximal opening 14 and the air outlet 34 together with the air inlet blocking wall 32 and the air outlet blocking wall 42, it becomes impossible to draw a straight line 44 between the air inlet 26 and the air outlet 34.

[0078] FIG. 1 further shows a bulge of the air outlet 34 from the distal end wall 46 of the downstream section 20. In other words, a distance 48 is provided between the air outlet 34 and the distal end wall 46 of the downstream section 20. This distance 48 creates an air outlet trough 50 surrounding the air outlet 34 between the air outlet 34 and the distal end wall 46 of the downstream section 20. Powder that conventionally leaks from the air outlet 34 falls into the air outlet trough 50, thus preventing the powder from leaking out of the air outlet 34.

[0079] Similarly, the air inlet 26 is disposed at a distance distally from the separation wall 24, creating an air inlet trough 52 surrounding the air inlet 26.

[0080] Figure 2 shows the prevention of leakage of powder 54 when the inhaler article 10 rotates during use or between uses. In Figure 2A, powder 54 from capsule 22 that is not drawn out from air outlet 34 during normal consumption process is prevented from leaking out of air outlet 34. This leaked powder 54 falls into air outlet trough 50 formed between distal end wall 46 of downstream section 20 and raised air outlet 34 adjacent to air outlet 34.

[0081] Figure 2B shows the movement of powder 54 when the inhaler article 10 rotates 180°. In this case, the powder 54 falls towards upstream section 18 inside downstream section 20. However, since the configuration of air inlet 26 is similar to that of air outlet 34, the powder does not leak into upstream section 18. Thus, the powder falls into air inlet trough 52 surrounding air inlet 26. In particular, since the slopes of air inlet 26 and air outlet 34, as well as air inlet blocking wall 32 and air outlet blocking wall 42, face in opposite directions, powder 54 is prevented from leaking from downstream section 20.

[0082] Figure 3C shows another 180° rotation of the inhaler article 10. In other words, the inhaler article 10 is rotated to return to the orientation shown in Figure 3A. Here, the powder 54 held adjacent to air inlet 26 in downstream section 20 falls again towards air outlet 34 in downstream section 20. However, the powder is prevented from leaking out of air outlet 34 and instead falls into air outlet trough 50 surrounding air outlet 34.

[0083] Figure 3 shows an embodiment in which a central column 56 is provided that extends between the upstream section 18 and the downstream section 20 from the separating wall 24 and extends in a distal direction toward the air outlet 34. The central column 56 has an outer diameter that is slightly larger than the inner diameter of the air outlet 34 so that a straight line 44 cannot be drawn from the air inlet 26 to the air outlet 34. The air inlet 26 is not explicitly shown in FIG. 3. However, the air inlet 26 is disposed adjacent to the central column 56 of the separating wall 24 as shown by the straight line 44 in FIG. 3A. Accordingly, the air inlet 26 is disposed offset laterally with respect to the longitudinal axis 30 of the inhaler article 10.

[0084] Figure 3B shows a more detailed view in which the distal end of the central column 56 and the outer diameter of the central column 56 are larger than the inner diameter of the air outlet 34.

[0085] Figure 4 shows the rotation of the inhaler article 10 similar to the rotation shown in FIG. 2. However, in this case, when a central column 56 is provided as shown in FIG. 3, the movement of the powder 54 is shown. The central column 56 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 is provided with a conical distal end to facilitate the withdrawal of the powder 54 into the air outlet 34 during normal use. The air outlet 34 is raised as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 so that an air outlet trough 50 is formed adjacent to the air outlet 34. The loose powder 54 is deposited in the air outlet trough 50 during rotation of the inhaler article 10 rather than leaking from the inhaler article 10.

[0086] Figure 5 shows a variation of an embodiment of the central column 56 in which the central column 56 is connected to the air outlet 34. A lateral opening 58 is provided in the central column 56 so that air can still reach the air outlet 34. The lateral opening 58 faces the side wall of the downstream section 20 and air can enter the air outlet 34 only through this laterally facing side opening 58.

Claims

**Claim 1** An inhaler article, comprising said upstream section in which a penetrable capsule containing powder is disposed within an upstream section, and said downstream section being in fluid connection with said upstream section via an air inlet disposed in a proximal end wall of the downstream section, said downstream section comprising an air outlet disposed within a distal portion of said downstream section, an inlet to said air outlet being disposed proximally at a distance from a distal end wall of said downstream section, said air outlet being angled towards a first side wall of the inhaler article, said air inlet being angled towards a second side wall of the inhaler article, said first side wall being disposed on the opposite side of said second side wall. An inhaler article. **Claim 2** The inhaler article according to claim 1, wherein said air outlet comprises an outlet extension axis, and an outlet angle of at least 5°, preferably at least 10°, more preferably at least 15°, and most preferably at least 20° is provided between said outlet extension axis and a longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. **Claim 3** The inhaler article according to claim 1, wherein said air inlet comprises an inlet extension axis, and an inlet angle of at least 5°, preferably at least 10°, more preferably at least 15°, and most preferably at least 20° is provided between said inlet extension axis and a longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. **Claim 4** said air outlet being offset with respect to a longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, said air inlet being offset with respect to a longitudinal axis of the inhaler article, and said air outlet being laterally offset with respect to said air inlet, one or more of which, the inhaler article according to claim 1. **Claim 5** The inhaler article according to claim 1, wherein said air outlet comprises an outlet blocking wall, and said outlet blocking wall is disposed such that a straight line cannot be drawn from said air outlet to said air inlet. **Claim 6** The inhaler article according to claim 1, wherein said air inlet comprises an inlet blocking wall, and said inlet blocking wall is disposed such that a straight line cannot be drawn from said air inlet to said air outlet. **Claim 7** The inhaler article according to claim 1, wherein an outlet of said air inlet is disposed distally at a distance from said proximal end wall of said downstream section. **Claim 8** The inhaler article according to claim 1, wherein the inlet to the air outlet is disposed proximally at a distance from the distal end wall of the downstream section such that a trough is formed adjacent to the distal end wall of the downstream section for excess powder.

9. The inhaler article according to claim 1, wherein the downstream section further comprises a central column extending distally from the proximal end wall of the downstream section.

10. wherein the outer diameter of the central column is larger than the inner diameter of the air outlet, the distal end of the central column is conical, and the inhaler article according to claim 9, wherein one or more of the central columns are connected to the air outlet.

11. The inhaler article according to claim 10, wherein the air outlet has a laterally facing inlet.

12. The inhaler article according to claim 10, wherein a portion of the central column connecting the central column to the air outlet is chamfered.

13. An inhaler article holder having a cavity configured to receive the inhaler article according to claim 1, the inhaler article holder comprising a penetrating element for penetrating the capsule.

14. An inhaler system comprising the inhaler article according to claim 1 and the inhaler article holder according to claim 13.

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