Respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler

Abstract

A respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler (301, 401, 501), the inhaler comprising a planar housing assembled from a stack of planar elements, the planar elements comprising a bottom plate (319, 419, 519), an intermediate plate (318, 418, 518), and an upper plate (317, 417), the planar elements being parallel to each other, and at least one planar element having a projection that forms a disc-shaped air circulation chamber (302) within the stack for deagglomerating an encompassed powdered drug using the energy of the inspiratory stream, the housing comprising a plurality of air supply channels (307), an air supply region for the powder flow, and an inhaler discharge channel (312), the chamber having polygonal side walls (303) extending about a central axis between the upper and bottom walls of the chamber, the central axis extending transversely to the bottom plate, and the height of the chamber being less than its diameter, the respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a breath-actuated dry powder inhaler.

Background Art

[0002] International Publication No. 2015 / 187025 (Patent Document 1) discloses a breath-actuated dry powder inhaler having a single air circulation chamber (basically a classifier) for deagglomerating entrained powdered drug using the energy of the inspiratory stream. The chamber has substantially polygonal side walls, and a plurality of air supply channels enter the chamber substantially tangentially with respect to the side walls. A powder channel extends tangentially into the chamber through the powder dosing supply region of the inhaler. An air outlet extends axially from the discharge portion in the chamber and connects to a discharge channel extending to the mouthpiece. The polygonal side walls comprise at least six straight line segments, each straight line segment being spaced from an adjacent one by the same first distance to form a plurality of air supply channels. The air supply channels have the same width. The powder channel is defined by two line segments spaced from each other by a second distance greater than the first distance.

[0003] Known dry powder aspirators offer several advantages. By providing polygonal sidewalls with at least six straight sides, the contact surface area between the circulating particles and the wall is reduced, which appears to result in reduced adhesion of the powder to the wall portion. In addition, the collision angle, i.e., the angle between the virtual extensions of the sidewalls, is set to a value of 60° or less, which also reduces the magnitude of the compressive force and results in a higher residual particle viscosity after collision. The large airflow through the air supply channel further creates a continuous air barrier for smaller particles, which, in conjunction with a reduction in the ratio of centrifugal force to drag, pushes the particles away from the cylindrical classifier wall, preventing them from contributing to adhesion and compression to the classifier sidewall. Instead, this causes the particles to circulate at a certain distance from the polygonal sidewall, collide with each other, and break down due to internal shear within the turbulent region of the airflow. Furthermore, because the powder channel is wider than the air supply channel, the risk of clogging of the powder channel is reduced, but the symmetry of the air circulation within the chamber is negatively affected. By providing at least six straight sides, the number of air supply channels is sufficient to compensate for any asymmetry in the air circulation within the chamber through the air supply channels, thereby enabling the deagglomerated powder to be properly administered from the inhaler.

[0004] In known dry powder inhalers, a sealed dose compartment is applied. The sealed dose compartment is a blister-shaped pocket sealed with a removable cover foil. The blister-shaped pocket is contained within the stack with the cover foil extending outside the inhaler as a tear-off portion. The resulting unit forms a single-dose, disposable unit.

[0005] For example, the powder in the dose compartment, which may be an untreated powder, a soft aggregate formulation, or a sticky mixture, may be an active ingredient, or a composition of an active ingredient with one or more excipients, which are any other material suitable for adjusting the specific powder properties to match the performance of the circulation chamber, such as a drug carrier, a sweeper excipient, a dispersion enhancer, a stabilizer, or any other material.

[0006] A single dose of the active ingredient (with or without excipients) may be divided into multiple dose compartments or pockets for simultaneous or sequential inhalation. Each compartment may contain the same ingredient or mixture, or different ingredients or mixtures. The compartments may be loaded from a measuring device within the housing, but are preferably pre-filled.

[0007] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0106154 (Patent Document 2) provides a dry powder inhaler that does not require blister capsules for storing powder formulations. For this purpose, the document proposes a dry powder inhaler in which the powder formulation is in direct contact with the housing during storage of the powder formulation. Since the powder formulation is in direct contact with the housing of the dry powder inhaler during storage of the dry powder inhaler, i.e., before the dry powder inhaler is used to inhale the dry powder drug, and since the dry powder inhaler contains only a single dose of the powder formulation, the dry powder inhaler according to this disclosure does not require an additional storage device, such as in the form of blister capsules or foil-faced containers, for storing the powder formulation before the dry powder inhaler is prepared for use. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2015 / 187025 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0106154 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] The present invention aims to provide an improved respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler. In particular, an objective of the present invention is to reduce the use of materials, thereby providing benefits in terms of cost and environmental impact (e.g., carbon footprint). Another objective is to provide an inhaler that can deliver relatively high powder doses. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, a respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler is provided as defined by the features of claim 1.

[0011] One aspect of the present invention is a respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler, the inhaler comprising a substantially planar housing assembled from a stack of substantially planar elements, the planar elements comprising a bottom plate, an intermediate plate, and an upper plate, the planar elements being parallel to one another, and at least one planar element having a projection that forms a substantially disc-shaped air circulation chamber within the stack for deaggregating an encompassed powdered drug (from a dose compartment) using the energy of an inspiratory stream, the housing comprising a plurality of air supply channels, an air supply region for a powder flow, and an inhaler discharge channel, the chamber having substantially polygonal side walls extending about a central axis between the top and bottom walls of the chamber, the central axis extending transversely to the bottom plate, the height of the chamber being less than its diameter, the plurality of air supply channels arranged around the circumference of the chamber, the channels extending from an air inlet, the channels entering the chamber substantially tangentially to its side walls, and the housing extending to the chamber through the powder dose supply region of the inhaler. A respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler is provided, comprising a powder channel which enters the chamber substantially tangentially to its side wall, the chamber further comprising an air outlet which connects to an exhaust channel which extends axially from an exhaust opening to a mouthpiece, the exhaust channel which connects substantially transversely to the air outlet of the chamber, the inhaler comprising a single air circulation chamber, the polygonal side wall comprising at least six straight line segments or sides which are spaced the same first distance apart from adjacent ones to form a plurality of air supply channels which are of the same width and are regularly arranged around the circumference of the chamber, the powder channel which is defined by two straight line segments which are spaced the same distance apart from each other to a second distance which is greater than the first distance, wherein a respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler is provided, comprising a planar dose compartment which is slidably received between two of three plates, for example between the bottom plate and the middle plate, in order to place at least one powder dose within the dose supply area.

[0012] In this way, improved inhaler operation can be achieved. The resulting inhaler can be compact and, for example, structurally rigid, and can provide highly effective and reliable powder delivery. In particular, the inhaler can be reusable and (good) durable, and can have less harm to the environment.

[0013] For example, an inhaler can provide versatile operation by utilizing a sliding and removable planar dose compartment, where multiple (interchangeable) planar dose compartments can be installed to provide multiple doses to match multiple inhalation actions of the inhaler. Alternatively, the inhaler may include two integrated, sliding planar dose compartments, where the dose compartments can be linearly moved (translated) between two (or more) positions to select one of the two (or more) dose compartments for dispensing during inhalation.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the planar volume compartment is detachably arranged relative to the planar housing, and the detachable volume compartment is - A sealed dosage compartment with a powder pocket sealed with a removable cover foil, and - Array of separate dose reservoirs It includes at least one of the following.

[0015] In any case, two of the three plates can provide (act as) guide means for guiding the planar dose compartment between their respective operating positions. The third plate can serve to guide air over the classifier discharge hole, improving the structural integrity of the inhaler, counteracting deformation of the other plates, and improving the reliability of the sliding movement of the planar dose compartment.

[0016] In any case, it is preferable that one of the housing plates (for example, the bottom plate) includes an opening (aperture) for receiving a part of the planar dosage compartment. More specifically, after assembly, the bottom of the planar dosage compartment can protrude, for example, below the bottom plate of the plate stack, whereby the dosage compartment can provide an additional volume for holding the dosage of the dry powder.

[0017] Further advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims. Below, non-limiting examples of the invention are described with reference to the figures.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] Exploded view of a first embodiment of a breath-actuated dry powder inhaler having a single circulation chamber. [Figure 2] Top plan view of the bottom plate of a second embodiment of the inhaler. [Figure 3] Exploded view similar to FIG. 1 of one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4A] Top view of a part of the embodiment of FIG. 3 during installation of the slidable planar dosage compartment. [Figure 4B] Top view similar to FIG. 4A in a state where the planar dosage compartment is assembled. [Figure 4C] Top view of the embodiment of FIG. 3 after assembly. [Figure 5A] Rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 3 in a cross-sectional view of the plate stack before assembly of the planar dosage compartment. [Figure 5B] Rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 3 in a cross-sectional view of the plate stack after assembly of the planar dosage compartment. [Figure 6A] Exploded view similar to FIG. 1 of another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6B] Bottom view of the planar dosage compartment of the embodiment of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7A] It is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7B] It is an open top view of the embodiment of FIG. 6A where the dose compartments are in their respective operating positions. [Figure 7C] It is a top view of the bottom plate of the embodiment of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7D] It is a top view of the planar dose compartment of the embodiment of FIG. 6A. [Figure 7E] It is a rear view of the housing of the embodiment of FIG. 6A. [Figure 8A] It is an open top view similar to FIG. 7B of a further embodiment of an inhaler where the planar dose compartment is in the first position. [Figure 8B] It is an open top view similar to FIG. 7B of a further embodiment of an inhaler where the planar dose compartment is in the second position. [Figure 8C] It is a top view of the bottom plate of the embodiment of FIG. 8A. [Figure 8D] It is a top view of the planar dose compartment of the embodiment of FIG. 8A. [Figure 9] It is a top view of an example of an array of dose compartments. [Figure 10] It is a schematic open top view of one embodiment of a breath-actuated dry powder inhaler and a part of the array of dose compartments shown in FIG. 9. [Figure 11A] It is an open top view of an example of an inhaler shown in FIG. 10. [Figure 11B] It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bottom plate of an example of an inhaler of FIG. 11A. [Figure 12A] It is a rear view of the stopper element of an example of an inhaler of FIG. 11A. [Figure 12B] It is a side view of the stopper element of the embodiment of FIG. 11A. <00​​​​​The figures show schematic diagrams of exemplary embodiments given as non-limiting examples of the present invention. In the figures, identical or corresponding parts for different embodiments are indicated by the same or corresponding reference numerals.

[0020] Figure 1 shows a respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler 1 comprising a single, substantially disc-shaped air circulation chamber 2 for deaggregating an encompassed powdered drug using the energy of the inhalation stream. The chamber 2 has polygonal side walls 3 extending around a central axis 4 between a substantially parallel upper wall (formed by a substantially planar intermediate plate 18) and a bottom wall (formed by a substantially planar bottom plate 19) of the chamber 2, such that the height of the chamber is less than its diameter. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the diameter of the single chamber 2 is approximately 25 mm, but in other embodiments, this can be a different value between 20 mm and 30 mm. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the polygonal side walls 3 have seven straight line segments or sides 5a to 5g formed by the surface of each projection 20. The protrusions 20a-20b, 20b-20c, 20c-20d, 20d-20e, 20e-20f, and 20f-20g are spaced equally apart from each other (also called the first distance), thereby forming a plurality of air supply channels 7 (six in the embodiment shown in Figure 1) regularly arranged around the circumference of the chamber 2, each having the same width, extending from separate air inlets and entering the chamber 2 substantially tangentially to the side walls 3. The distance, i.e., the width of the air supply channels, is approximately 1.5 mm in the embodiment of Figure 1, but can be between 1 and 2 mm in other embodiments. The width of each air supply channel 7 can be constant, but is not required (for example, a channel 7 can be wider on its inlet side than on its outlet side). However, the protrusions 20a and 20g are spaced more apart from each other to form a powder channel 7a. In the illustrated embodiment, this larger second distance (i.e., the width of the powder channel) is about 3 to 4 times, preferably 3.5 times, the first distance, i.e., about 5 mm, but in other embodiments, it can be at least 2 times, i.e., at least 3 mm, the first distance. In yet another embodiment, this larger second distance (i.e., the width of the powder channel) is about 2 to 5 times, preferably 4 times (preferably at least 2 mm), the first distance.

[0021] The powder channel 7a extends from the joining air supply inlet to the powder dosage area 8 of the inhaler 1. The chamber 2 further comprises an air outlet 9, which extends axially from a (preferably circular) discharge opening 10 at the center of the upper wall of the chamber 2 and connects to a discharge channel 12. The discharge channel 12 extends to the mouthpiece 13. Although an embodiment having seven sides is disclosed in Figure 1, it should be noted that the present invention is not limited to this number, and any number of sides can be provided as long as there are seven or more sides.

[0022] The discharge channel 12 is connected substantially transversely to the air outlet 9 of the chamber. The axis MP of the mouthpiece 13 is oriented transversely to the central axis 4 of the classification chamber 2.

[0023] Assembly elements 14a, which can be inserted into each opening 14b of the parts of the inhaler 1, allow the inhaler 1 to be assembled to have a substantially planar housing having the shape and size of a thick credit card, for example, constructed as a disposable unit. Note that the present invention is not limited to the way in which the parts are connected to each other, and that the parts may also be constructed such that they click into each other by a flexible lip or tapered pin falling into a corresponding hole (see also Figure 3). The chamber 2 is disposed within the housing such that its central axis 4 extends transversely to the bottom plate 19. The discharge channel 12 is disposed within the housing such that it extends in a plane parallel to the bottom plate. The mouthpiece 13 is provided on the periphery 15 of the housing. The discharge channel 12 and the circulation chamber 2 extend in a substantially parallel plane. During inhalation, the mouthpiece 13 discharges the entrained, deaggregated powder particle aerosol clumps from the air recirculation chamber 2 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler housing, which coincides with axis MP, at which time the axis of the classification chamber 2 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler housing 14.

[0024] Therefore, the housing is assembled from a stack of substantially planar elements 16. These elements 16 include a bottom plate 19, an intermediate plate 18, and an upper plate 17. During operation (e.g., inhalation by the user), the inhaler 1 is positioned such that the upper plate 18 is above the bottom plate 19.

[0025] In this example, the planar bottom plate 19 is provided with projections 20 that form the chamber 2 within the stack, an air supply channel 7, an air supply region 8 for the powder flow, and an exhaust channel 12 for the inhaler 1. The upper surface of the bottom plate 19 supports projections 20 that form, for example, the bottom wall of the chamber 2 and the sides 5a to 5g. The free edges of the sides can be rounded toward the center of the chamber 2 and are substantially positioned on a virtual circle. The chamber 2 is closed by the bottom surface of an intermediate plate 18 that forms the upper wall of the chamber 2. The intermediate plate 18 forms a division between the bottom plane on which the chamber 2 extends and the parallel upper plane on which the exhaust channel 12 extends. An exhaust opening 10 (for example, circular) within the intermediate plate 18 forms a passage for air and encompassed and deaggregated drug particles that exit the chamber through an air outlet 9 extending coaxially with axis 4.

[0026] The bottom plate 19 has a surrounding ridge 21 that defines an opening in which the intermediate plate is placed. The top plate 17 is stacked on top of the upper intermediate plate 18 and the bottom plate 19. The assembly of plates 16-18 is such that the housing is substantially airtight (except for the air inlet opening).

[0027] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the powder dose supply area 8 is formed by a sealed dose compartment 23 containing a pre-measured dose of powdered medication. For clarity, note that in Figure 1, the sealed dose compartment is shown upside down with respect to the position of use. The dose compartment 23 is contained within the powder channel 7a, blocking air from passing through the channel 7a until the seal 24 of the dose compartment 23 is removed. The sealed dose compartment 23 is shown as a powder pocket sealed with a removable cover foil 24. The pocket 23 is contained within the stack with the cover foil 24 extending outside the inhaler 1 as a detachable portion. As shown in Figure 1, the housing forms a disposable unit for a single dose. Note that the present invention is not limited to using the powder pocket as a compartment for powdered medication.

[0028] An air inlet 27 is located on the rear 25 of the inhaler, approximately opposite the mouthpiece 13. The thickness of the upper plate 17 is locally reduced so that during inhalation through the mouthpiece 13, air can enter between the upper plate 17 and the intermediate plate 18, entraining the powder from the supply area 8 and carrying it into the powder channel 7a. Note that other embodiments for creating the air inlet are also possible.

[0029] The airflow entrains the powder and carries it to the classification chamber 2 through a wide channel 7a formed between the bottom plate 19 and the intermediate plate 18. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the airflow passes through an opening 11 in the intermediate plate 18 and through a supply region 8 formed by an open powder pocket. The air passes through the opening 11 and enters the powder pocket, which is open for powder entrainment, and the powder flow is guided along the downstream wall of the powder cup through a contoured channel in the central plate. This channel, which has an upward and downward sloping depth, begins at approximately half the length of the powder pocket and ends in its downward sloping section on the downward sloping portion of the powder channel toward the classifier, with its maximum depth at 50% of its length.

[0030] The airflow without powder flows from the central inlet 27 at the rear 25 of the housing, through the joining channel 7b, to the supply channel 7 formed between the protrusion 20, the bottom plate 19, and the intermediate plate 18, and then to the chamber 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the joining channel 7b extends parallel to the powder channel 7a, which is located on the opposite side of the joining channel when viewed from the longitudinal axis MP of the inhaler.

[0031] Therefore, the powder particles are introduced into the chamber 2 by entrainment with air entering the chamber 2 tangentially through the powder supply channel 7a. Additional air is supplied to the chamber 2 through the supply channel 7, and this air also enters the chamber tangentially. Thus, a circular airflow is created within the chamber 2 during inhalation, and as a result of the relatively large diameter of the chamber 2, its circulation is sufficient for higher drug doses. By uniformly distributing a relatively large number of supply channels 7 around the circumference of the chamber, the circulation of the flow within the chamber 2 is further enhanced.

[0032] In addition, as a result of the seven line segments or sides 5a to 5g, the contact surface area between the circulating particles and the walls is reduced compared to the prior art, which is due to the reduction of powder compression against the wall portions. Further reduction of compression is obtained from the collision angles, which are described in more detail with respect to Figure 2, being up to 30° to 45° (depending on the number of channels). The larger number of air channels improves the flow symmetry within the classifier chamber, where smaller particles circulate at a certain distance from the polygonal side walls. This prevents these particles from colliding with the side walls, thereby preventing adhesion and compression against these walls. Flow symmetry can be further influenced by lengthening the wall 20g' of the projection 20g that forms one of the walls of the powder channel 7a. With relatively wide powder channels 7a, which are at least twice, preferably three times, the width of the airflow channel 7, clogging of the powder channels 7a can also be greatly reduced and prevented.

[0033] The polygonal shape of the chamber 2, the at least six sides 5, and the relatively large diameter of the chamber ensure that the powder particles are properly pulverized, meaning they are properly dispersed with significantly reduced holding force, thereby improving the aspirator's suitability for cohesive, hygroscopic, and compressible powders. Furthermore, finer particles are effectively entrained by the airflow exiting the chamber 2 through the air outlet 9 axially under the action of the dominant drag force.

[0034] Larger particles, including sweeper crystals used to remove particles deposited from the walls of chamber 2, remain within chamber 2 under the action of the dominant centrifugal force, unless they are pulverized. A further advantage of the inhaler of the present invention is that even if the dry powder does not contain sweeper crystals, the sides of the chamber 5 can remain clean.

[0035] The airflow exiting the chamber axially through the air outlet flows into the discharge channel leading to the mouthpiece 13.

[0036] Since the discharge channel 12 has a central axis MP extending perpendicular to the central axis 4 of the chamber 2, the discharge channel 12 connects transversely to the central axis of the air outlet 9 of the chamber 2, which coincides with the central axis 4 of the chamber 2, and the flow from the air outlet 9 to the discharge channel changes from a direction coaxial with the chamber axis to a direction transverse to the chamber axis before exiting the mouthpiece 13. In this way, the tangential component of the flow is reduced, thereby reducing oral deposits without the need to provide sheath flow. This increases the efficiency of actually delivering the drug to the lungs.

[0037] For example, the powder in the dose compartment 23, such as untreated powder, soft aggregate formulation, or sticky mixture, may be an active ingredient, or a composition of an active ingredient with one or more excipients, which are, for example, drug carriers, sweeper excipients, dispersion enhancers, stabilizers, or any other material suitable for adjusting the powder properties specific to the performance of the circulation chamber. The powder in the dose compartment 23 may be an active ingredient, or a composition having, for example, an active ingredient which is untreated powder, spherical pellet formulation, sticky mixture, or physical mixture, and / or carrier excipients, each with a sweeper excipient, thereby allowing the properties of the powder (composition) to be adjusted to the properties specific to the classifier. A single dose of the active ingredient (with or without excipients) may be divided onto multiple dose compartment pockets 23 for simultaneous or sequential inhalation. Each compartment may contain the same ingredient or mixture, or different ingredients or mixtures. The compartments may be loaded from a weighing device in the housing, but are preferably pre-filled.

[0038] Figure 2 shows another embodiment of the respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler 201, in which the polygonal sidewall has 11 straight line segments or sides 205a-205k (only sides 205a and 205k are shown for clarity in the figure), which are formed by the surfaces of their respective projections 220. The projections 220a-220b, 220b-220c, 220c-220d, 220d-220e, 220e-220f, 220f-220g, 220g-220h, 220h-220i, 220i-220j, and 220j-220k are spaced equally apart from each other, thereby forming a plurality of air supply channels 207 (10 in the embodiments shown in Figures 2 and 3) regularly arranged around the circumference of the chamber, each having the same width. The protrusions 220a and 220k are also spaced further apart from each other to form the powder channel 207a. As a result of the 11 sides 205a-205k, the contact surface area between the circulating particles and the wall is further reduced, which is due to the reduction of powder compression against the wall portion. In the embodiment of Figure 1, the further reduction of compression is again obtained from the collision angle ca-, i.e., the angle between the virtual extensions of the sides being about 30° (e.g., 33°). As a result of the large number of air channels, the symmetry of the flow in the classification chamber, where smaller particles circulate internally at a certain distance from the polygonal sidewalls, is further improved, preventing particles from colliding with the sidewalls and thereby preventing particles from contributing to adhesion and compression. Here again, all free edges of the protrusions are positioned on a virtual circle (shown by a dashed line). Note that to avoid unnecessary repetition in the description of the components, Figure 1, in which other similar components of the inhaler are described, is referenced.

[0039] Figures 3–8 show exemplary embodiments 301, 401 of the improved inhaler. According to Figure 3, which is similar to the example in Figure 1, the improved inhaler 301 has a substantially planar housing assembled from a stack of substantially planar elements 317, 318, 319, the planar elements including a bottom plate 319, an intermediate plate 318, and an upper plate 317, the planar elements being parallel to each other. At least one planar element 319 (in this case the bottom plate) is provided with a projection 320, the projection forming a substantially disc-shaped air circulation chamber 302 within the stack for deagglomerating the encompassed powdered drug using the energy of the inhalation stream. The inhaler 301 includes a plurality of air supply channels 307, an air supply region for the powder flow, and an exhaust channel 312. Chamber 302 has substantially polygonal side walls 303 extending about a central axis between the top and bottom walls of chamber 302, the central axis extending transversely to the bottom plate 319, and the height of chamber 302 is less than its diameter. Multiple air supply channels 307 are arranged around the circumference of chamber 302, the channels 307 extending from the air inlet and entering chamber 302 substantially tangentially to the side walls 303. The housing of the inhaler 301 includes a powder channel 307a extending from the powder dose supply area 308 of the inhaler 301 to chamber 302, the powder channel 307a entering chamber 302 substantially tangentially to the side walls 303. Chamber 302 further includes an air outlet 309, the air outlet extending axially from the discharge opening and connecting to the discharge channel 312 (extending to the mouthpiece 313). For example, the latter discharge opening may be a circular discharge opening located centrally / concentrically with respect to the central axis of the chamber 302, the discharge opening being located within the upper part of the chamber 302, and preferably having a diameter considerably smaller than the diameter of the chamber 302.

[0040] The discharge channel 312 connects substantially transversely to the air outlet 309 of the chamber 302. The inhaler 301 comprises a single air circulation chamber 302. As in Example 1 above, the polygonal side wall 303 comprises at least six straight line segments or sides, each straight line segment spaced at the same first distance from adjacent ones to form a plurality of air supply channels 307. The air supply channels 307 have the same width and are regularly arranged around the circumference of the chamber 302. The powder channel 307a may be defined by two straight line segments spaced at a second distance greater than the first distance from each other. An opening 311 can be provided in the intermediate plate 318 to allow air to pass through the powder supply area 308 (from the air supply area 311a between the upper plate and the intermediate plate, see Figure 5) during the inhalation operation.

[0041] Exemplary inhaler embodiments 301 and 401 differ from inhaler 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 in that the planar dose compartment 323 is slidably received between two of the three plates, for example, between the bottom plate 319 and the intermediate plate 318 (see figure), to accommodate at least one powder dose within the dose supply area 308.

[0042] For example, the planar dose compartment 323 may be detachably positioned relative to the planar housing (see Figures 3-5). Figures 4A and 5A show a first position of the planar dose compartment 323, where the planar dose compartment is located externally to the inhaler housing (i.e., detached from it). Figures 4B, 4C, and 5B show a second position of the planar dose compartment 323, i.e., the mounted (assembled) position, where the planar dose compartment is bonded to the inhaler housing to place powder doses within the dose supply area 308. For example, the planar dose compartment 323 may be movable longitudinally with respect to the longitudinal axis MP of the inhaler 301 (i.e., between the detached position and the inserted operating position).

[0043] The planar dose compartment 323 preferably has a substantially rectangular shape (as seen in the top view). Preferably, the planar dose compartment 323 includes a (flat) slide plate 323a having a (single) dose reservoir 323b, which is preferably covered with a removable wheel 324 (see Figure 4A). In particular, the removable wheel 324 can cover substantially the entire upper surface 323f of the slide plate 323a, or at least a portion of the surface surrounding the reservoir 323b. For example, the dose reservoir 323b can extend parallel to the planar elements 317, 318, 319 of the housing, at least after assembly (when the dose compartment 323 is brought to its operating position between the housing plates 318, 319). According to one embodiment, the planar dose compartment 323 includes a concave and / or (slightly) oblique upper side surface for accommodating the removable wheel 324. For example, a receptive recessed section on the upper side of the planar dose compartment 323 may have a depth in the range of about 0.2 to 0.4 mm to receive the wheel 324. Similarly, the inhaler housing is preferably dimensioned to allow the removal of the wheel 324 once the planar dose compartment 323 is positioned within the housing.

[0044] The substantially planar housing and planar dose compartment 323 of the inhaler 301 preferably include a cooperative guide structure for guiding the movement of the dose compartment 323 relative to the housing. Such a guide structure may include opposing side walls and / or outer surfaces of the respective components 323, 318, 319, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0045] For example, a planar element 319 provided with a projection 320 that forms a substantially disc-shaped air circulation chamber 302 within the stack may also include a guide projection 319b for guiding a slidable planar volumetric compartment 323.

[0046] For example, the (preferably flat) upper side surface 323f of the slide plate 323a may extend parallel to the opposing surface of the intermediate plate 318 of the housing after installation. Similarly, the lower side surface 323g of the sliding plate 323a (directed outward from each upper side surface 323f, see Figure 5) preferably extends parallel to the opposing surface of the lower plate 319 of the housing after installation. The upper side surfaces 323f and 323g of the slide plate preferably fit snugly between the opposing portions of the respective housing plates 318, 319 after installation, thereby enabling precise positioning of the dosage compartment.

[0047] Furthermore, for example, the bottom plate 319 of the housing may include opposing longitudinal guide walls 319b, which preferably engage in a sealed manner with an intermediate wall 318 and guide in manner with the lateral sides of the slide plate 323a during its sliding movement (inward and outward) relative to the inhaler housing. In addition, or alternatively, the bottom plate 319 of the housing may include two opposing longitudinal support walls 319g to support the slide plate 323a during its sliding movement (inward and outward) relative to the inhaler housing. For example, these support walls 319g may enclose the cup receiving opening 319a of the housing between them and may be located, for example, above the vertical level of the bottom sides of each bottom plate 319 (see Figures 5A and 5B).

[0048] Furthermore, the bottom plate 319 of the housing may include a lateral end stop wall 319c (extending laterally with respect to the longitudinal axis MP) for engaging with the front side surface of the slide plate 323a when the plate 323a is guided to its operating position (along the longitudinal axis MP) within the inhaler housing. The end stop wall 319c may extend, for example, between the distal portions of the longitudinal guide wall 319b and may include, for example, an opening 319d (see Figure 4A) for powder and air to advance (during inhaler operation) from the dose supply area 308 toward the downstream powder channel 307a.

[0049] The end stop wall 319c of the housing may include, for example, a curved (rounded) corner to make tight contact with the curved (rounded) distal edge of the slide plate 323a when the plate 323a is placed inside the housing, thereby enabling improved positioning.

[0050] The dose reservoir 323b can be defined by a cup-shaped section of the slide plate 323a, which has a cup bottom 323c (see Figure 5A), two opposing longitudinal cup sides 323d (extending longitudinally), and two lateral opposing cup sides 323e (extending laterally relative to the longitudinal sides 323d). The cup bottom 323c is preferably positioned vertically below the lower side of the slide plate 323a (after installation) to increase the dose cup volume. In particular, the bottom plate 319 of the inhaler housing may include an opening 319a (see Figure 4A) for receiving the cup-shaped section of the planar dose compartment 323 (see Figure 5B) (i.e., the respective downwardly projecting cup sides 323d, 323e, and cup bottom wall 323c) when the dose compartment 323 is in the operating position. The opposing cup sides 323e can have various shapes, such as flat, curved, and / or inclined. In one example, the front cup side 323e can be inclined, and its opposing cup side 323e can be curved (see Figure 3 showing an inclined cup side 323e).

[0051] Furthermore, it is preferable that at least a portion of the dose reservoir 323 has a bottom side that extends at an angle, for example, inclined upward, for example, at an angle of 15 to 45° with respect to the upper side surface 323f of the slide plate (and with respect to the central plane of the inhaler housing after assembly). As shown in the figure, for example, the cup-shaped section of the slide plate 323a may include an oblique front side wall 323e that reaches toward the powder channel 307a of the housing after installation, and the front side wall 323e extends at the angle mentioned above (from the bottom surface of the bottom 323c of the cup to the upper surface of each slide plate 323f). In this way, improved powder discharge from the dose reservoir 323 toward the downstream powder channel 30a can be achieved (when the dose reservoir is in its operating position).

[0052] Preferably, a releasable locking means is provided to releasably lock the planar dose compartment 323 relative to the housing when the planar dose compartment 323 is in the powder delivery position (i.e., the second position described above, see Figure 4B). The resulting locked state of the planar dose compartment 323 preferably provides the benefit of fixing the dose reservoir 323 relative to the stack of plates 317, 318, and 319 (this fixing can be released by unlocking the locking means), enabling reliable powder discharge, and also allowing removal of the foil 324 if it remains in place on the slide plate 323a.

[0053] For example, the slide plate 323a may include an integrated elastic locking finger 323h that cooperates with a locking structure / recess of the housing (e.g., a retaining wall 319e) to releasably hold the slide plate 323a in its operating position. Such a locking structure 319e may be located, for example, on or near the proximal side of the housing and / or integrally within the housing (as shown in the figure).

[0054] After installation, the elastic locking finger 323h preferably protrudes outside the housing of the inhaler 302 for operation by the user. For example, the elastic locking finger 323h can be moved from the locked position (shown in Figure 4B) to the released position, preferably against the inherent spring force of the locking finger, and the slide plate 323a can be removed from the inhaler housing when the locking finger is in its released position. Furthermore, while the slide plate 323a is in the housing, the elastic locking finger 323h can automatically snap into its locked position when the slide plate 323a reaches its operating position (such an arrangement is indicated by arrow Q in Figure 4A).

[0055] Optionally, the external surface of the planar dose compartment 323, including an integrated locking finger, can be configured to be held in a force-closed manner by the opposing plates 318, 319 of the housing when the planar dose compartment 323 is in its second position. For example, the elastic locking finger 323h can be spring-biased against an opposing surface or wall of the housing (for example, against the longitudinal guide wall 319b) when the slide plate 323a is in its operating position, enabling stable positioning of the planar dose compartment 323.

[0056] Alternatively, the external surface of the planar dispensing compartment 323, including the integrated locking finger, can be positioned / molded so that it is held in a form-closed manner by the opposing plates 318, 319 of the housing when the planar dispensing compartment 323 is in its second position.

[0057] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the housing of the inhaler 301 may include elastic locking fingers to releasably lock the planar dose compartment to its second position.

[0058] The dose reservoir 323b of the planar dose compartment 323 is preferably positioned in line with, i.e., longitudinally opposite to, the powder channel 307a of the inhaler housing when the dose compartment 323 is in its second (i.e., operating) position (see Figure 4B). Furthermore, the dose reservoir 323b thus positioned is preferably located below / opposite to the air passage (opening) 311 of the intermediate plate 318. Good results can be achieved when the air passage 311 of the intermediate plate 318 is dimensioned to have a cross section considerably smaller than the open upper section of the cup-shaped section of the slide plate 323a (this open upper section is defined between the upper edges of the two longitudinal sides 323d and the lateral side 323e of the cup) (for example, a cross section of at most 50% or at most 30% of its cross section). Preferably, the air passage 311 of the intermediate plate 318 is located above the proximal section of the open upper section of the cup-shaped section of the slide plate 323a (i.e., near the proximal side of the inhaler housing). Also preferably, the rear side (edge) of the air passage 311 is located above the rear side (edge) of the dose reservoir 323b when the dose compartment 323 is in its second position.

[0059] The intermediate plate 318 preferably includes an upright bridge section 318b, the upright bridge section extending opposite each of the powder channel 307a and the open upper section of the cup-shaped section of the slide plate 323a to define an air / powder passage below it. The central section of the upright bridge section 318b may be located opposite, for example, the end stop wall opening 319d. The bottom sides of the upright bridge section 318b preferably have an overall concave shape and preferably have, for example (viewed along the flow direction) both an inclined proximal section and an inclined distal section, and a straight section between the two inclined sections. For example, according to a preferred embodiment, the upright bridge section 318b is configured / arranged such that each inclined bottom side has substantially the same slope ratio as the slope of the aforementioned inclined lateral cup side 323e (if any). According to a preferred embodiment, the upright bridge section 318b is configured / positioned to define a bridge channel together with the opposing surfaces of the positioned slide plate 232a and bottom plate 319, and the bridge channel has a substantially constant cross-section when viewed along the respective powder flow directions along the bridge section 318b. In this way, powder blockage in the bridge powder channel can be prevented.

[0060] Preferably, the slide plate 323a of the dose compartment 323 has a thickness W equal to or less than the height of the air circulation chamber 302 of the housing (measured normal to the main surfaces of the housing plates 317, 318, and 319, as shown in Figure 5B). The slide plate 323a can be dimensioned such that a portion of the plate protrudes outside the inhaler housing when it is in its second position (see Figures 4B and 4C). The protruding portion of the slide plate may include an optional locking finger portion, which can provide a user operating member for manual handling of the slide plate 323a.

[0061] Furthermore, the inlet section of the inhaler housing may include an inclined or curved proximal inlet edge 319f, which connects, for example, to the longitudinal support wall section 319g of the bottom plate 319, allowing for easy insertion of the slide plate. Similarly, the opposing edge of the intermediate plate 318 may also be inclined or curved for the same purpose.

[0062] Furthermore, the upper plate 317 and bottom plate 319 of the housing are preferably interconnected via a plurality of integrated connectors 314a, such as click connectors and / or clamping studs 314a. Preferably, a plurality of spaced-apart connectors 314a (e.g., five or six connectors) are arranged along the contour of the housing. The connectors can be manufactured, for example, as an integral part with the bottom plate 319, fixed to a connector receiver (not shown) on the upper plate 317, or alternatively, as an integral part with the upper plate 317, fixed to a connector receiver on the bottom plate, or in combination thereof. The intermediate plate 318 may include connector passages or grooves 318a for passing the integrated connectors 314a between the upper plate 317 and the bottom plate 319, and for positioning the intermediate plate 318 relative to the other plates in the stack.

[0063] The operation of the embodiments shown in Figures 3-5 is essentially the same as that of the inhaler shown in Figures 1 and 2. Before first use, if the planar dose compartment 323 has not yet been introduced into the inhaler housing, it can be mounted from its first position to its second position and locked in place. Subsequently, an optional foil 324 can be removed from the slide plate 323a, and the powder present on the slide plate (i.e., within its cup-shaped section) can be inhaled by the user through the mouthpiece 313. After use, the empty planar dose compartment 323 can be removed from the inhaler 301 (by unlocking any optional locking means, if present) to be replaced by another planar dose compartment 323 providing a new powder dose.

[0064] The configuration of the present invention makes it possible to achieve optimal use of the inhaler 301 in an economical, compact, reliable, and user-friendly form. Different dose compartments having the same or different powders to be inhaled via the inhaler 323 may be provided. For example, two consecutive doses to be administered can provide multiple doses of the same powder.

[0065] Figures 6-7 show another example of an improved powder inhaler 401, which includes an upper plate 417, an intermediate plate 418, a bottom plate 419, and each substantially disc-shaped air circulation chamber 402 (see above). This example differs from the example shown in Figures 4-5 in that the sliding planar dose compartment 423 is not removable from the housing of the inhaler 401. Furthermore, the dose compartment 423 includes two or more (in this case two) dose reservoirs 423c containing separate doses D1, D2. However, in yet another embodiment (not shown), the planar dose compartment 423 may be provided having several separate dose reservoirs, and the planar dose compartment may be removable from the housing (in this case, the housing preferably includes inlet and / or outlet ports for installing and / or removing the dose compartment 423). In the latter case, a dry powder inhaler is provided having a replaceable planar dose compartment with at least two separate dose reservoirs.

[0066] After assembly, the planar dose compartment 423 is preferably movable within the housing between two plates (between the bottom plate 419 and the intermediate plate 418) between a first operating position (see Figure 7B) for positioning a first dose D1 within the dose supply area and a second operating position (not shown) for positioning a second dose D2 within the dose supply area. The planar dose compartment 423 may be movable, for example, transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis MP of the inhaler 401.

[0067] After assembly, each dose supply area can be located, for example, centrally within the housing, in line with the mouthpiece 413. The same applies to the powder channel 407a (see Figure 7B), which can be defined, for example, by one straight line segment and one (slightly) curved or angled line segment, the two line segments spaced apart by a second distance greater than the first distance mentioned above (with respect to the air supply channel of the air circulation chamber 402). For example, the second distance can be a variable distance (or distance range), for example, a decreasing distance when viewed along the powder flow direction. The opening 411 in the intermediate plate 318 (which allows air to pass from the air supply area between the upper plate and the intermediate plate to the powder supply area during inhalation) can also be located, for example, centrally within the housing, in line with the mouthpiece 413.

[0068] Furthermore, it is preferable that the intermediate plate 418 includes an upright bridge section 418b, which extends opposite each of the powder channel 407a and the open upper section of the cup-shaped section of the slide plate (to define an air / powder passage downward) when the slide plate 423a is in one of its two operating positions.

[0069] The bottom plate 419 of the housing may include an opening 419a (in this case, rectangular) for receiving a portion of the planar dose compartment 423. Also, as shown in Figure 7B by the arrow AF indicating airflow, this opening 419a can provide air passages to each of the two positions of the planar dose compartment 423 toward a projection 420 of a substantially disk-shaped air circulation chamber 402. For example, to this end, the housing may include two air channels 407b from a supply channel formed between the projection 420, the bottom plate 419, and the intermediate plate 418 to the chamber 402 in order to receive air AF from the opening 419a, and the two air channels 407b are associated with two operating positions of the dose compartment 423. As shown in the figure, a powder channel 407a may be located between the two air channels 407b.

[0070] The planar dose compartment 423 preferably has a substantially rectangular shape (as seen in the top view). Preferably, the planar dose compartment 423 includes a (flat) slide plate 423a having two dose reservoirs 423b, which may be covered, for example, by one or two removable foils (not shown). In this example, the two dose reservoirs 423b extend parallel to each other.

[0071] For example, each dose reservoir 423b may extend parallel to the planar elements 417, 418, and 419 of the housing after the inhaler has been assembled.

[0072] The substantially planar housing of the inhaler 401 and the dual-dose planar dose compartment 423 preferably includes a cooperative guide structure for guiding the lateral movement of the dose compartment 423 relative to the housing. Such a guide structure may include opposing side walls and / or outer surfaces of the respective components 423, 418, and 419, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0073] For example, a planar element 419 provided on a projection 420 that forms a substantially disc-shaped air circulation chamber 402 within the stack may also include guide projections 419b, 419c for guiding a slidable planar volumetric compartment 423.

[0074] For example, the (preferably flat) upper side surface 423f of the slide plate 423a may extend parallel to the opposing surface of the intermediate plate 418 of the housing after installation. Similarly, the lower side surface 423g of the slide plate 423a (directed outward from each upper side surface 423f) preferably extends parallel to the opposing surface of the lower plate 419 of the housing after installation. It is preferable that the upper side surface 43f and lower side surface 423g of the slide plate fit snugly between the opposing portions of the respective housing plates 418, 419 after installation, thereby enabling precise positioning of the dosage compartment.

[0075] Furthermore, for example, the bottom plate 419 of the housing may include opposing longitudinal guide walls 419b, which optionally provide end stops that engage with the respective lateral sides of the slide plate 412a when the plate is in one of its two operating positions.

[0076] Furthermore, the bottom plate 419 of the housing may include a lateral guide wall section 419c to engage with and guide the front and rear sides of the slide plate 423a when the plate 423a is guided (transversely) to one of its operating positions within the inhaler housing. The internal guide wall 419c may include, for example, an opening 419d for powder and air to pass (during inhaler operation) from each dose supply area toward the downstream powder channel 407a.

[0077] Preferably, the guide wall 419c of the housing includes a curved (rounded) corner to make tight contact with the curved (rounded) distal edge of the slide plate 423a when the plate 423a is positioned in one of its two operating positions.

[0078] For example, each of the two dose reservoirs 423b can be defined by a cup-shaped section of a slide plate 423a, the cup-shaped section having a cup bottom 423c, two opposing longitudinal cup sides, and two lateral opposing cup sides. Each cup bottom 423c is preferably positioned vertically below the lower side of the slide plate 423a to increase the dose cup volume. In particular, the bottom plate 419 of the inhaler housing may include the aforementioned opening 419a to receive the two cup-shaped sections of the planar dose compartment 423 (i.e., the cup sides and cup bottom wall projecting downwards, respectively).

[0079] Furthermore, it is preferable that at least a portion of the dose reservoir 323 has a bottom side that extends at an angle, for example, inclined upward, for example, at an angle of 15 to 45 degrees with respect to the upper side surface 323f of the slide plate (and with respect to the central plane of the inhaler housing after assembly). As shown in the figure, for example, each of the two cup-shaped sections of the slide plate 423a may include an oblique front side wall 423e that reaches toward the powder channel 407a of the housing when the respective cup is in the operating (i.e., powder discharge) position.

[0080] Preferably, a releasable locking means is provided to releasably lock the planar dosage compartment 423 relative to the housing when the planar dosage compartment 423 is in one of its two powder delivery positions.

[0081] For example, the slide plate 423a may include an integrated elastic locking finger 423h that cooperates with a locking structure / recess of the housing (e.g., a retaining wall 419e) to releasably hold the slide plate 423a in each operating position. Such a locking structure 419e may be located, for example, on or near the proximal side of the housing and / or integrally within the housing (as shown in the figure).

[0082] After installation, the elastic locking finger 423h preferably protrudes outside the housing of the inhaler 402 for operation by the user. For example, the elastic locking finger 423h can be moved from the locked position (shown in Figure 7B) to the released position, preferably upward against the inherent spring force of the locking finger, and then the slide plate 423a can be moved transversely to its second operating position. Once the slide plate 423a reaches its second operating position, the elastic locking finger 423h can automatically snap into place and return to the locked position.

[0083] The dual-dose slide plate 412a, in particular its integrated locking finger 423h, can be dimensioned to protrude from the outside of the inhaler housing for user operation. The rear end of the inhaler housing (outward from the mouthpiece 413) can include an opening or slit defined, for example, between the bottom plate 419 and the intermediate plate 418, to allow passage and transverse movement of the locking finger 423h. Each slit can extend along the aforementioned retaining wall 419e, which can be, for example, centrally located and optionally include inclined lateral sides to facilitate locking finger operation.

[0084] As in the previous embodiment, the upper plate 417 and bottom plate 419 of the housing are preferably interconnected via a plurality of integrated connectors 414a, such as click connectors and / or clamping studs 414a. The connectors 414a can be positioned along the contour of the housing. The intermediate plate 418 may include connector passages or grooves 418a to allow the integrated connectors 414a to pass between the upper plate 417 and the bottom plate 419, and to position the intermediate plate 418 relative to the other plates of the stack. In this example, two of these connectors 414a are located on the rear side of the housing, partially near the opposing ends of the rear slit. Preferably, the second pair of these connectors 414a are located relatively centrally or near the center of the housing (when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the housing). Also preferably, the pair of connectors 414a are located on or near the front side of the housing (near the mouthpiece 413). In this way, a robust plate stack can be provided, enabling improved repositioning of the dual-dose compartment 423.

[0085] The operation of the embodiments shown in Figures 6 and 7 is basically the same as that of the inhaler shown in Figures 3 to 5, except that the dose compartment cannot be removed from the housing and is positioned in one of its two operating positions for discharging the respective powder doses D1 and D2 (and is lockably released by the locking finger 423h). After one of the two doses D1 and D2 has been dispensed, the user can slide the slide plate 423a transversely to the other operating position (by operating the locking finger 423h) to dispense the other dose of D1 and D2. Once both doses have been used, the inhaler 401 is disposable and preferably reusable.

[0086] Figures 8A–8D show further examples of the inhaler 501, which differ from the examples in Figures 6 and 7 in that the housing (shown only in part) includes a limited number of integrated connectors 514a, for example, as few as four, which can be manufactured as a single unit with, for example, the bottom plate 519 of the housing (or alternatively, the top plate of the housing). In this case, the housing does not have connectors located on the rear side of the housing. As a result, a relatively compact inhaler assembly can be achieved. In particular, the inhaler can provide relatively reduced rigidity on the rear side of the housing, thereby improving the sliding motion of the dose compartment 523. The operation of this example is shown in Figures 8A and 8B and is basically the same as the operation of the embodiments in Figures 6 and 7.

[0087] As shown in Figure 8A, when the dose compartment 523 is in the first position, the first dose D1 can be discharged, and air AF can enter the housing through an opening 519a extending below (and beside) the slide plate 523a to be delivered to one of the two downstream air channels 507b.

[0088] As shown in Figure 8B, when the dose compartment 523 is in its second position, a second dose D2 can be discharged, and here again air AF can enter the housing through an opening 519a that extends below (next to) the slide plate 523a in order to be discharged to the other of the two downstream air channels 507b.

[0089] Figures 9-12 schematically illustrate another example of the inhaler 601, in which the planar dose compartment is provided by an array S of (three or more) separate dose reservoirs 623 (e.g., an elongated carrier strip with dose reservoirs 623), and the reservoirs 623 differ from the example described above in that they extend in a straight line from one another, for example. The inhaler housing is configured to allow the array S to be fed in and out of the inhaler housing, for example, through opposing (left and right) sides of the housing, in order to sequentially bring each powder dose D into the dose area of ​​the inhaler. After one dose reservoir is depleted (used), the array S can then slide against the housing to remove the depleted reservoir from the housing and to position a subsequent dose reservoir or array (filled with powder D) into the dose area. Feeding the array S into the housing is indicated by arrow F in Figure 10, while arrow G indicates the removal of the used dose reservoir 623. In this example, the dispensing direction F is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler housing.

[0090] As shown in Figure 9, for example, a strip (array S) of interconnected dose reservoirs 623 can be provided and delivered into the inhaler housing. Preferably, the dose reservoirs 623 of array S are releasably connected to one another, for example, via a releasable connection structure 670, for example, via intermediate fragile wires, disconnection wires, perforation wires and / or such, as will be clear to those skilled in the art. Each of the dose reservoirs 623 may have a rectangular shape (as seen in the top view). Preferably, each planar dose compartment 623 includes a (flat) slide plate 623a having a (single) dose reservoir 623b (containing dose D), and that or each reservoir 623b is preferably covered by a removable foil 624.

[0091] As in the example above, the housing of the inhaler 601 in this embodiment includes a powder channel 607a extending from the powder dose supply area 608 of the inhaler 301 to the chamber 602, the powder channel 607a entering the chamber 302 substantially tangentially to its side wall. Each air circulation chamber (shown schematically only) has the same configuration as described above.

[0092] The bottom plate 619 of the housing of the inhaler 601 may include opposing guide walls 619b (extending perpendicular and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the inhaler housing) that provide guide structures, in particular recesses, for receiving the array S of the dose reservoirs and delivering the first reservoir into the dose area. The first lateral side of the housing may include, for example, an inlet opening EO for the inlet of the array S of the reservoir 623, and the second lateral side facing outward from the first side may include an outlet opening XO for discharging the used dose reservoir 623.

[0093] Referring to the figure, preferably, the inhaler 601 has a releasable locking means 680 for releasably locking each planar dose compartment 623 of array S against the housing when the dose compartment 623 is in the powder delivery position. For example, each slide plate 623a of the dose compartment 623 may include an integrated locking structure / relief to cooperate with a stopper element (e.g., a retaining element) 680 of the housing to releasably hold the slide plate 623a in its operating position.

[0094] After installation, the operating portion 680a (e.g., a knob) of the stopper element 680 preferably protrudes outward from the housing of the inhaler 6302 for operation by the user. For example, the locking element 680 may be an elastic element 680 (e.g., a flexible beam with snap-fastening ridges to cooperate with the locking structure of the dose compartment 623), the elastic element may move from a locked position (shown in Figures 10, 11A) to a released position, preferably against the inherent spring force of the element 680, and the slide plate 623a can be removed from the inhaler housing when the locking element 680 is in its respective released position. Furthermore, while the strip S and each slide plate 623a are in the housing, the elastic locking element 680 may automatically snap into its locked position as shown when the slide plate reaches its operating position.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the elastic locking element 680 can be connected to or coupled to the inhaler housing, for example, the bottom plate 619 or an intermediate plate, via one or more pins 680b connected to pin receiving openings in the housing, respectively. In this example, these mounting means are located near the array inlet opening EO of the housing.

[0096] This disclosure includes certain exemplary embodiments, but it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made to these exemplary embodiments in form and detail without departing from the claims. The exemplary embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and not for limiting purposes.

[0097] For example, in the case of a replaceable dose compartment, the inhaler housing can be configured to accept the dose compartment through the rear side of the housing (as shown in Figures 3-4) or through a different side, for example, through the lateral side of the housing.

[0098] Inhalers can be configured in various ways to circulate air within or through the housing in different air circulation directions (for example, clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0099] Furthermore, the location of the powder channel in the housing is not limited to the locations shown in the illustrative diagram. For example, the powder channel may be located on the left or right side of the inhaler housing (as viewed in the top view), for example, within or near the center.

[0100] Similarly, powder channels can have a variety of shapes and dimensions, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Powder channels can be straight channels, curved channels, or a combination of such shapes or other shapes.

[0101] The planar dose compartments, for example, each slide plate, may include a single dose reservoir for holding a single powder dose, two separate dose reservoirs for holding two separate powder doses, or more than two (for example, three) dose reservoirs.

[0102] Accordingly, according to one embodiment, the planar dose compartment may include an array of separate dose reservoirs (e.g., three or more) (e.g., a carrier strip having dose reservoirs), and the inhaler housing is configured to allow the array to be fed in and out of the inhaler housing, for example, via opposing (left and right) sides of the housing, in order to sequentially bring each powder dose into the dose area of ​​the inhaler. Then, after one of the dose reservoirs is depleted (used), the array can slide against the housing to remove the depleted reservoir from the housing and to position a subsequent dose reservoir or array (filled with powder) into the dose area.

[0103] Furthermore, the dose reservoir of the dose compartment can have various orientations and shapes. For example, in the case of a substantially rectangular dose reservoir (as viewed from above), the dose reservoir can extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis MP of the inhaler, although this is not required. In another embodiment, the dose reservoir extends at an angle (greater than 0 degrees) with respect to the longitudinal axis MP of the inhaler, for example, in the range of 10 to 45 degrees.

[0104] In some embodiments, the planar dose compartment is slidably received between the bottom plate and the intermediate plate, but this is not required. For example, in an alternative example, the planar dose compartment may be slidably received between the top plate and the intermediate plate.

[0105] In one embodiment, a portion of the dose compartment may protrude through the bottom plate of the inhaler housing (see Figure 5B as an example). In an alternative embodiment, the dose compartment may be positioned in an inverted orientation, and / or a portion of the dose compartment may protrude through a dedicated opening that may be provided within the middle plate of the inhaler housing.

[0106] Furthermore, for example, a slidable, planar dose compartment may be substantially or entirely embedded within the housing of the inhaler.

[0107] The sliding planar dose compartment may include user operating members, such as handles, knobs, or integrated platelet sections, for manual control of the planar dose compartment relative to the inhaler housing. Such operating members may, after assembly, project in various directions, for example, backward (see Figures 3-8), downward, or differently from the housing.

[0108] The inhaler (e.g., the housing) can be made from a variety of materials, such as plastics, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. According to an advantageous embodiment, the inhaler is made substantially or entirely from a biodegradable or bio-based material (e.g., a biodegradable plastic material or a bio-based plastic material).

Claims

1. A respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler (hereinafter referred to as the inhaler), wherein the inhaler (301, 401, 501, 601) is a substantially planar housing assembled from a stack of substantially planar elements (317, 318, 319, 417, 418, 419, 519, 619), the planar elements comprising a bottom plate (319, 419, 519, 619), an intermediate plate (318, 418), and an upper plate (317, 417), the planar elements being parallel to each other, and at least one planar element (319, 419, 519) The inhaler comprises a housing, a plurality of air supply channels (307), an air supply region for the powder flow, and an inhaler discharge channel (312), wherein the chamber has substantially polygonal side walls (303) extending around a central axis between the upper and bottom walls of the chamber (302, 402, 602), and the center The shaft extends transversely to the bottom plates (319, 419, 519, 619), the height of the chambers (302, 402, 602) is less than their diameter, the plurality of air supply channels (307) are arranged around the circumference of the chambers (302, 402, 602), the air supply channels (307) extend from the air inlet, the air supply channels (307) enter the chamber substantially tangentially to its side wall, and the housing passes through the powder dosage supply area (308) of the inhaler (301, 401, 501, 601) The chambers (302, 402, 602) are provided with powder channels (307a, 407a, 607a) extending to the chambers (302, 402, 602), the powder channels (307a, 407a, 607a) entering the chambers (302, 402, 602) substantially tangentially to their side walls (303), the chambers (302, 402, 602) further comprising an air outlet (309), the air outlet connecting to an exhaust channel (312) extending axially from the exhaust opening to a mouthpiece (313, 413), the exhaust channel (312) is connected to the chambers (302, 402,Connected substantially transversely to the air outlet (309) of 602), the inhalers (301, 401, 501, 601) comprise a single air circulation chamber (hereinafter referred to as a single chamber), the polygonal side wall (303) comprises at least six straight line segments or sides, each straight line segment spaced at the same first distance from adjacent ones to form the plurality of air supply channels (307), the air supply channels (307) having the same width, and the circle of the chamber (302, 402, 602) A respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler, wherein the powder channels (307a, 407a, 607a) are regularly arranged around the circumferential surface, and the powder channels are defined by two line segments spaced apart from each other by a second distance greater than the first distance, the inhaler features planar dose compartments (323, 423, 523, 623) slidably received between two of the three plates, for example, between the bottom plate and the intermediate plate, in order to place at least one powder dose within the dose supply area (308).

2. The inhaler according to claim 1, wherein the planar dose compartments (323, 623) are detachably disposed relative to the planar housing, and preferably a releasable locking means is provided to releasably lock the planar dose compartments relative to the housing when the planar dose compartments are in a powder delivery position.

3. The inhaler according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the planar dose compartments (423, 523, 623) are movable between a first position for placing a first dose within the dose supply area and a second position for placing a second dose within the dose supply area.

4. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein one of the plates (319, 419, 519, 619) of the housing includes an opening (319a, 419a, 519a) for receiving a portion of the planar dose compartment (323, 423, 523, 623).

5. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the substantially planar housing and the planar dose compartments (323, 423, 523, 623) include a cooperative guide structure for guiding the movement of the planar dose compartments relative to the housing.

6. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the planar dose compartment (323) is movable in the longitudinal direction with respect to the longitudinal axis (MP) of the inhaler.

7. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the planar dose compartments (423, 523, 623) are movable transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis (MP) of the inhaler.

8. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the planar dose compartments (323, 423, 523, 623) include a slide plate having a dose reservoir preferably covered with a removable foil.

9. The inhaler according to claim 8, wherein the dose reservoir extends parallel to the planar element of the housing.

10. The inhaler according to claim 8 or 9, wherein at least a portion (323e) of the dose reservoir extends at an angle, for example, with respect to the upper side surface (323f) of the planar dose compartment and / or with respect to the central plane of the housing, within the range of 15 to 45 degrees.

11. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the planar elements (319, 419, 519, 619) are provided with a projection (320) that forms a substantially disc-shaped air circulation chamber (302) within the stack, and the planar elements include guide projections for guiding the slidable planar dose compartment.

12. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the planar dose compartments (323, 423, 523, 623) have a substantially rectangular shape.

13. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the planar dose compartments (323, 423, 523, 623) include slide plates (323a, 423a, 523a), and the slide plates preferably have a thickness equal to or less than the height of the air circulation chambers (302, 402, 602).

14. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the upper plate and the bottom plate are interconnected via a plurality of integrated connectors (314a), for example, via click connectors and / or clamping studs.

15. The polygonal sidewall comprises seven to eleven straight line segments, and / or The second distance is at least twice, preferably about three or four times, the first distance, and / or The first distance is between 1 and 2 mm, preferably about 1.5 mm, and / or Each surface of the projection forms its own straight line segment, each surface has a free edge, and the free edge of each surface of the projection is rounded and located on a circle around a central axis, and / or The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the diameter of the single chamber is between about 20 mm and about 30 mm, preferably about 25 mm.

16. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the planar dose compartment includes an array of separate dose reservoirs, and the housing of the inhaler is configured to allow the array of separate dose reservoirs to be discharged into and out of the housing of the inhaler, for example, via opposing sides of the housing, in order to sequentially bring each powder dose into the dose area of ​​the inhaler.

17. The inhaler according to claim 16, wherein the array of separate dose reservoirs is a carrier strip having the dose reservoirs.

18. The inhaler according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the planar dose compartment is a sealed planar dose compartment having a powder pocket sealed with a removable cover foil (324).

19. A respiratory-operated dry powder inhaler (hereinafter referred to as the inhaler), wherein the inhaler (301, 401, 501, 601) is a substantially planar housing assembled from a stack of substantially planar elements (317, 318, 319, 417, 418, 419, 519, 619), the planar elements comprising a bottom plate (319, 419, 519), an intermediate plate (318, 418), and an upper plate (317, 417), the planar elements being parallel to each other, and at least one planar element (319, 419, 519) containing the encompassing powder A housing comprising a housing with a projection forming a substantially disc-shaped air circulation chamber (hereinafter referred to as the chamber / 302, 402, 602) within the stack for deaggregating a powder drug using the energy of the inhalation stream, a plurality of air supply channels (307), an air supply region for the powder flow, and an inhaler discharge channel (312), wherein the chamber has substantially polygonal side walls (303) extending around a central axis between the upper and bottom walls of the chamber (302, 402, 602), and the central axis is the bottom plate (319, 419 The chambers (302, 402, 602) extend transversely to the (519, 619), the height of the chambers (302, 402, 602) is less than their diameter, the plurality of air supply channels (307) are arranged around the circumference of the chambers (302, 402, 602), the air supply channels (307) extend from the air inlet, the air supply channels (307) enter the chamber substantially tangentially to its side wall, and the housing extends to the chambers (302, 402, 602) through the powder dosage supply area (308) of the inhaler (301, 401, 501, 601) The chamber (302, 402, 602) is provided with channels (307a, 407a, 607a), the powder channels (307a, 407a, 607a) enter the chamber (302, 402, 602) substantially tangentially to its side wall (303), the chamber (302, 402, 602) further comprises an air outlet (309), the air outlet is connected to an exhaust channel (312) extending axially from the exhaust opening to a mouthpiece (313, 413), the exhaust channel (312) is connected substantially transversely to the air outlet (309) of the chamber (302, 402, 602),The inhaler (301, 401, 501, 601) comprises a single air circulation chamber, the polygonal side wall (303) comprises at least six straight line segments or sides, each straight line segment spaced at the same first distance from adjacent ones to form the plurality of air supply channels (307), the air supply channels (307) having the same width and regularly arranged around the circumference of the chamber (302, 402, 602), and the powder chamber Nell (307a, 407a, 607a) is defined by two line segments spaced apart from each other by a second distance greater than the first distance, and is a planar dose compartment (323, 423, 523, 623) slidably received between two of the three plates, for example between the bottom plate and the intermediate plate, in order to place at least one powder dose within the dose supply area (308), The planar volume compartments (323, 623) are detachably arranged relative to the planar housing. The removable planar volume compartments (323, 623) A sealed, planar dosage compartment having a powder pocket sealed with a removable cover foil (324, 624), and / or An inhaler featuring a planar dose compartment including an array (S) of separate dose reservoirs (623).

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