Holder for inhaler accessories

Abstract

The present invention relates to a holder (10) for an inhaler article (100). The holder comprises a housing including a housing cavity. The holder comprises a sleeve (22) positioned within the housing cavity. The sleeve includes a sleeve cavity disposed to receive an inhaler article. The sleeve is movable between a first position and a second position within the housing cavity. The holder comprises a through element (36) disposed to penetrate the inhaler article received within the sleeve when the sleeve moves from the first position to the second position. The holder comprises a lockout mechanism including at least one lever member (26, 28) of the sleeve and a retaining section (16, 18) of the housing. The holder further comprises a protruding element (38) located at the bottom end of the housing cavity. At least one lever member is disposed to be in a neutral configuration when the inhaler article is not inserted into the sleeve. At least one lever member is disposed to move from the neutral configuration to an operational configuration when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. When in the operational configuration, at least one lever member is arranged to engage with a retaining section as the sleeve moves from a second position back to a first position. The retaining section is arranged to hold the at least one lever member when it is engaged with the retaining section, and therefore to hold the sleeve in the first position. At least one lever member is arranged to disengage from the retaining section when the inhaler article is removed from the sleeve and the system returns to a neutral configuration. The present invention further relates to an inhaler system.

Description

Technical Field

[0006]

[0001] The present invention relates to a holder for an inhaler article that assists in preventing more than one activation of the inhaler article.

Background Art

[0002] Certain inhaler articles hold capsules containing dry powder. These capsules can be activated by piercing the capsule wall. Typically, the user does not receive an indication that the capsule has been pierced (or “activated”). This can lead the user to activate the capsule multiple times. By activating the capsule more than once, the size of the piercing hole can increase or the number of holes can increase, which can change the powder delivery, increase the powder delivery, and shorten the user experience.

[0003] It is desirable to provide a holder for an inhaler article that can prevent the user from accidentally piercing the capsule or activating the inhaler article more than once when the inhaler article is inserted into a sleeve for use.

[0004] It is desirable to provide a holder for an inhaler article that prevents multiple activations of an inhaler article powder capsule received within the holder. It is desirable to provide an inhaler article system that is conveniently used by the user.

[0005] It is desirable to provide a durable holder for an inhaler article. It is desirable to provide a holder for an inhaler article having a long product life. It is desirable to provide a holder for an inhaler article having a mechanism that prevents multiple activations of an inhaler article powder capsule received within the holder and that has a long life and reliably functions over many use cycles.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a holder for an inhaler article is provided. The holder may comprise a housing including a housing cavity. The holder may comprise a sleeve positioned within the housing cavity. The sleeve may comprise a sleeve cavity disposed to receive an inhaler article. The sleeve may be movable between a first position and a second position within the housing cavity. The holder may comprise a through element disposed to penetrate the inhaler article received within the sleeve when the sleeve moves from the first position to the second position. The holder may comprise a lockout mechanism. The lockout mechanism may comprise at least one lever member of the sleeve, preferably comprising at least a first lever member and a second lever member of the sleeve. The lockout mechanism may comprise a retaining section of the housing. At least one lever member may be disposed to be in a neutral configuration when an inhaler article is not inserted into the sleeve. At least one lever member may be disposed to move from the neutral configuration to an operational configuration when an inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. When in the operating configuration, at least one lever member may be arranged to engage with a retaining section as the sleeve moves from a second position back to a first position. The retaining section may be arranged to hold at least one lever member when engaged with the retaining section, and thus to hold the sleeve in the first position. At least one lever member may be arranged to disengage from the retaining section when the inhaler article is removed from the sleeve and returns to the neutral configuration.

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a holder for an inhaler article is provided. The holder comprises a housing including a housing cavity. The holder comprises a sleeve positioned within the housing cavity. The sleeve includes a sleeve cavity disposed to receive an inhaler article. The sleeve is movable between a first position and a second position within the housing cavity. The holder comprises a through element disposed to penetrate the inhaler article received within the sleeve when the sleeve moves from the first position to the second position. The holder comprises a lockout mechanism. The lockout mechanism includes at least one lever member of the sleeve. The lockout mechanism includes a retaining section of the housing. At least one lever member is disposed to be in a neutral configuration when the inhaler article is not inserted into the sleeve. At least one lever member is disposed to move from a neutral configuration to an operational configuration when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. When in the operational configuration, at least one lever member is disposed to engage with the retaining section when the sleeve moves from the second position back to the first position. The retaining section is arranged to hold at least one lever member when engaged with the retaining section, and thus to hold the sleeve in a first position. At least one lever member is arranged to disengage from the retaining section when the inhaler article is removed from the sleeve and returns to a neutral configuration.

[0008] A holder for an inhaler article is provided that can prevent a user from accidentally puncturing the capsule. A holder for an inhaler article is provided that can prevent a user from accidentally activating the inhaler article more than once when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve for use.

[0009] A holder for inhaler articles may be provided that prevents multiple activations of the inhaler article powder capsule received within the holder. An inhaler article system that is convenient for the user may be provided.

[0010] A durable holder for inhaler articles may be provided. A holder for inhaler articles with a long product life may be provided. A holder for inhaler articles may be provided having a mechanism that prevents multiple activations of the inhaler article powder capsule received in the holder, and that functions reliably over a long life and many usage cycles. The holder of the present invention may not require the inclusion of additional guides in the lockout mechanism. A simpler holder may be provided. A more durable holder may be provided.

[0011] At least one lever member may include one lever member. At least one lever member may include multiple lever members, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 lever members. At least one lever member may include at least a first lever member and a second lever member. At least one lever member may include a first lever member and a second lever member.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a holder for an inhaler article is provided. The holder comprises a housing including a housing cavity. The holder comprises a sleeve positioned within the housing cavity. The sleeve includes a sleeve cavity disposed to receive an inhaler article. The sleeve is movable between a first position and a second position within the housing cavity. The holder comprises a through element disposed to penetrate the inhaler article received within the sleeve when the sleeve moves from the first position to the second position. The holder comprises a lockout mechanism. The lockout mechanism includes a first lever member of the sleeve. The lockout mechanism includes a second lever member of the sleeve. The lockout mechanism includes a retaining section of the housing. The first and second lever members are disposed to be in a neutral configuration when the inhaler article is not inserted into the sleeve. The first and second lever members are disposed to move from the neutral configuration to an operational configuration by the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. When in the operational configuration, the first and second lever members are arranged to engage with the retaining section as the sleeve moves from the second position back to the first position. The retaining section is arranged to hold the first and second lever members when engaged with the retaining section, and therefore to hold the sleeve in the first position. The first and second lever members may be arranged to disengage from the retaining section when the inhaler article is removed from the sleeve and returns to the neutral configuration.

[0013] A holder of the present invention comprising at least a first lever member and a second lever member may provide a holder for inhaler articles that is particularly durable. A holder of the present invention comprising at least a first lever member and a second lever member may provide a holder for inhaler articles that has a particularly long product life. A holder of the present invention comprising at least a first lever member and a second lever member may provide a holder for inhaler articles that has a mechanism for preventing multiple activations of the inhaler article powder capsule received in the holder, and which has a long lifespan and functions reliably over many usage cycles.

[0014] The retaining section may include at least one retaining element for engaging with at least one lever member. The retaining section may include a first retaining element for engaging with a first lever member and a second retaining element for engaging with a second lever member. The first and second retaining elements may be disposed on opposing sides of the housing cavity.

[0015] The first lever member and the second lever member may be arranged on opposing sides of the sleeve cavity.

[0016] The holder may include at least one spring element for pushing at least one lever member toward a neutral position. The holder may include a first spring element for pushing a first lever member toward a neutral position. The holder may include a second spring element for pushing a second lever member toward a neutral position.

[0017] At least one spring element may be blade-shaped. The first and second spring elements may also be blade-shaped.

[0018] At least one spring element may be made of metal or alloy. The first and second spring elements may be made of metal or alloy. The metal or alloy may be stainless steel. The stainless steel may be AISI 301 stainless steel.

[0019] At least one spring element may be fixed to the housing. The first and second spring elements may be fixed to the housing.

[0020] The first end of at least one spring element may be fixed to the housing. The second end of at least one spring element may be directed inward to press against at least one lever member of each sleeve positioned within the housing cavity.

[0021] The first ends of the first and second spring elements may be fixed to the housing. The second ends of the first and second spring elements may be directed inward to press against the first and second lever members, respectively, of the sleeves positioned within the housing cavity.

[0022] At least one spring element can, advantageously, ensure that at least one lever member returns from the operating configuration to the neutral configuration when the inhaler article is removed, even after many cycles of use. A durable mechanism can be provided.

[0023] The sleeve may contain a polymer material. The polymer material may contain one or more of polycarbonate, glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate, and POM (polyacetal), or may consist of these materials.

[0024] The sleeve may be made from a polymer material containing 5% to 50% by weight, or 5% to 15% by weight, or preferably 15% to 25% by weight or 25% to 35% by weight, preferably about 30% by weight of fiber material.

[0025] The fiber material may be a glass fiber material. The polymer material may be a polycarbonate-based material, and the fiber material may be a glass fiber material.

[0026] By incorporating fibrous material into a polymer material, a sleeve that is less prone to permanent deformation can be provided. By incorporating fibrous material into a polymer material, a sleeve having at least one lever member that is less prone to permanent deformation can be provided. A more durable holder can be provided. A holder having a lockout mechanism that has a long lifespan and functions reliably over many usage cycles can be provided.

[0027] The holder may be arranged such that the sleeve moves between a first position and a second position along the longitudinal axis of the holder. The holder may be arranged such that at least a portion of each of at least one lever member moves laterally when changing between an operating configuration and a neutral configuration. The holder may be arranged such that at least a portion of each of the first lever member and the second lever member moves laterally when changing between an operating configuration and a neutral configuration. The lateral direction may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis direction.

[0028] At least one lever member may extend into the sleeve cavity in the neutral configuration. The first and second lever members may extend into the sleeve cavity in the neutral configuration.

[0029] The holding section may be shaped to hold at least a portion of each of at least one lever member within the holding section so as to resist the movement of the sleeve when at least one lever member reaches the holding section. The holding section may be shaped to hold at least a portion of each of the first and second lever members within the holding section so as to resist the movement of the sleeve when the first and second lever members reach the holding section.

[0030] The holding section may include at least one abutting surface arranged to resist the lateral movement of at least one lever member. The holding section may include at least one abutting surface arranged to resist the lateral movement of the first and second lever members.

[0031] At least one lever member may be formed integrally with the tubular body of the sleeve. The first and second lever members may be formed integrally with the tubular body of the sleeve. The first and second lever members, as well as the tubular body of the sleeve, may form a monolithic component. At least one lever member may be a separate component attached to the tubular body of the sleeve. The first and second lever members may be separate components attached to the tubular body of the sleeve.

[0032] At least one lever member may have a first end connected to the tubular body of the sleeve. At least one lever member may have a second end including a tip engagement mechanism extending from each lever member.

[0033] At least one lever member may have an elongated shape extending between the first and second ends. At least one lever member may have a longitudinal axis that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve in the neutral configuration.

[0034] Each of the first and second lever members may have a first end connected to the tubular body of the sleeve. This end may be integrally formed with the tubular body of the sleeve. Each of the first and second lever members may have a second end including a tip engagement mechanism extending from the respective lever member.

[0035] The tip engagement mechanism may be configured to contact the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve.

[0036] Advantageously, at least one lever member connected to or integrally formed with the sleeve can provide a simple mechanism with few moving parts for preventing accidental penetration of the capsule or inhaler article. Furthermore, at least one lever member being an elongated member can allow for lateral biasing and movement of at least one lever member without requiring complex additional mechanisms of the sleeve.

[0037] At least one lever member may be flexible such that when an inhaler article is received within the sleeve cavity, the lever member is deflected outward so as to move away from the longitudinal axis of the sleeve. At least one lever member may be biased toward the neutral position such that when an inhaler article is removed from the sleeve, the lever member moves to the neutral position, allowing the sleeve to move.

[0038] At least one lever member may be elastically deformable or bendable such that, when an inhaler article is received in the sleeve, at least one lever member can be bent outward by a range of about 1.0 mm to about 2.0 mm away from its longitudinal axis. Preferably, at least one lever member may move or bend outward by about 1.5 mm.

[0039] Each of the first and second lever members may be a lever extending from a first end to a second end, the first end being connected to a sleeve, and the second end including a tip engagement mechanism extending from the lever. In the neutral position, the lever member may be configured such that the second end extends into the sleeve cavity. The lever member may be configured to be in the neutral position when the inhaler article is not in the sleeve cavity. The lever member may be a cantilever.

[0040] Each of the first and second lever members may be a cantilever extending from the first end to the second end. The first end may be connected to a sleeve. The second end may be a free end so that it can move independently of the first end. In other words, the second end may bend or move in a direction different from the direction of movement of the first end. The second end may be configured to engage with the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inside the sleeve cavity. The cantilever may be configured to bend or deform from the first end to the second end when moved by the inhaler article.

[0041] The tip engagement mechanism may be configured to directly contact the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve, and to move in contact with the inhaler article. The tip engagement mechanism may include a projection facing the longitudinal central axis of the sleeve cavity.

[0042] The angle between the distal end face of at least one lever member and the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of at least one lever member may be 2 to 12 degrees, preferably 3 to 10 degrees.

[0043] The holder may have a protruding element. The protruding element may be located at the bottom end of the housing cavity. The protruding element may be located at the distal end of the housing cavity. The protruding element may be positioned to protrude into the distal end of the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve cavity. The protruding element may be positioned to protrude into the sleeve cavity when the sleeve is in a second position. The protruding element may have a tubular shape. The outer diameter of the protruding element may be smaller than the inner diameter of the sleeve.

[0044] The holder may be configured such that, when the sleeve is in the second position, the protruding element is positioned laterally between the tip engagement mechanism of the first lever member and the tip engagement mechanism of the second lever member. The holder may also be configured such that, when the sleeve is in the second position, the protruding element is sandwiched between the tip engagement mechanism of the first lever member and the tip engagement mechanism of the second lever member.

[0045] The protruding element may be configured to move together with the sleeve as the sleeve moves between a first position and a second position.

[0046] The holder may include a compressible spring element, such as a helical spring. The compressible spring element may be configured to push the sleeve toward a first position. The holder may be configured such that the compressible spring element is in a compressed configuration when the sleeve is in a second position. The holder may be configured such that the compressible spring element is in a relaxed configuration when the sleeve is in a second position.

[0047] The first end portion of the compressible spring element may be connected to a sleeve. The first end portion of the compressible spring element may be connected to a protruding element. The first end portion of the compressible spring element may be connected to a connector element. The protruding element may be connected to a connector element. One or both of the protruding element and the connector element may be configured to be movable. One or both of the protruding element and the connector element may be configured to move with the sleeve when the sleeve moves between a first position and a second position. The second end of the compressible spring element may be connected to a non-movable portion of the housing.

[0048] One or both of the protruding element and the connector element may be configured to move relative to the through element when the sleeve moves between a first position and a second position. The sleeve may be configured to move relative to the through element when the sleeve moves between a first position and a second position.

[0049] The protruding element may have an inner channel. The through element may be configured to be pushed through the inner channel of the protruding element as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position. The through element may be configured to move along the inner channel of the protruding element as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position. The connector element may have an inner channel. The through element may be configured to be pushed through the inner channel of the connector element as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position. The through element may be configured to move along the inner channel of the connector element as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position. The protruding element and the connector element may each have an inner channel. The through element may be configured to be pushed through the inner channels of the protruding element and the connector element as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position. The through element may be configured to move along the inner channels of the protruding element and the connector element as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position.

[0050] The penetrating element may be configured to penetrate the capsule received in the inhaler article. The penetrating element may be configured to be pushed through the inner channels of the protruding element and connector element to penetrate the capsule received in the inhaler article. The penetrating element may be configured to be pushed through the inner channels of the protruding element and connector element to penetrate the capsule received in the inhaler article as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position.

[0051] The inner walls of the housing may have multiple rib elements extending in the circumferential direction. The rib elements may provide additional mechanical stability to the housing. The rib elements may provide additional rigidity to the housing.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an inhaler system is provided which includes a holder and an inhaler article as described herein. The inhaler article comprises a capsule disposed within a capsule cavity of the inhaler article. The capsule may contain pharmaceutically active particles, which may contain nicotine.

[0053] The inhaler system may be configured such that, as the sleeve moves to a second position when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve, the distal end wall of the inhaler article folds inward toward the tubular side wall of the inhaler article.

[0054] At least one lever member may be configured to move from a neutral configuration to an operating configuration by the inhaler article such that a protruding element protrudes into the distal end of the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. The protruding element may be configured to deform the distal end wall of the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. The protruding element may be configured to fold at least a portion of the distal end wall of the inhaler article inward toward the tubular side wall of the inhaler article as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position. The protruding element may be configured to fold at least a portion of the distal end wall of the inhaler article inward toward the tubular side wall of the inhaler article as the inhaler article moves relative to the protruding element. The protruding element may be configured such that, as the inhaler article moves relative to the protruding element, at least a portion of the distal end wall of the inhaler article folds inward toward the tubular side wall of the inhaler article, resulting in the folded portion of the distal end wall of the inhaler article being coaxially positioned between the protruding element and at least one lever member. The protruding element may be configured such that, as the inhaler article moves relative to the protruding element, at least a portion of the distal end wall of the inhaler article folds inward toward the tubular side wall of the inhaler article, resulting in the folded portion of the distal end wall of the inhaler article being coaxially positioned between the protruding element and the tip engagement mechanism of at least one lever member. The holder may be configured such that, when the sleeve is in a second position, the folded distal end wall of the inhaler article is sandwiched between the protruding element and at least one lever member. The holder may be configured such that, when the sleeve is in a second position, the folded distal end wall of the inhaler article is sandwiched between the protruding element and the tip engagement mechanism of at least one lever member. By folding a portion of the distal end wall of the inhaler article, a thicker tubular side wall of the inhaler article may be provided at the distal end of the inhaler article. The thicker side wall may push at least one lever member radially outward from the neutral configuration to the operating configuration.

[0055] The protruding element may be configured to protrude into the distal end of the inhaler article when the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position. The protruding element may also be configured to protrude into the distal end of the inhaler article so that it moves with the sleeve when the sleeve moves back from the second position to the first position.

[0056] Each of at least one lever member may have a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the sleeve in the neutral position. The sleeve may be configured to receive an inhaler article and position it around its distal end region. The sleeve may have a base surface for contacting the distal end of the inhaler article. The base surface may define the distal end of the sleeve and the open proximal end of the opposing sleeve. The sleeve may extend from the distal end to the open proximal end. The sleeve may hold the inhaler article via a compression fit. The sleeve may include an opening at the distal end of the sleeve, and a through element may extend through the opening. The distal end of the inhaler article may contact the base surface of the sleeve and bias the sleeve to move toward the through element. The sleeve may be coaxial with the through element. The sleeve may align the inhaler article so that the through element reliably activates the capsule within the inhaler article. The sleeve may also mechanically hold and support the through element to prevent or reduce displacement of the through element.

[0057] The sleeve may define a first air intake zone having at least one air opening through the sleeve. The first air intake zone may include two or more, three or more, four or more, or about 1 to about 10 air openings, or about 3 to about 9 air openings. The first air intake zone is close to the proximal end of the sleeve. The first air intake zone is configured to allow air to flow from the inside of the sleeve into an airflow channel formed between the sleeve and the inner surface of the housing.

[0058] The sleeve may include a second air intake zone containing at least one air opening through the sleeve. The second air intake zone may contain two or more, three or more, four or more, or about 1 to about 10 air openings, or about 3 to about 9 air openings. The second air intake zone is located close to the distal end of the sleeve. The second air intake zone is configured to allow air to flow from the airflow channel into the inside of the sleeve.

[0059] In some embodiments, a portion of the inner cavity between the first air intake zone and the second air intake zone may have a reduced diameter. In these embodiments, air (inhalation air) cannot pass from the proximal end of the sleeve to the distal end of the sleeve between the sleeve and the inhalation article. In these embodiments, by providing the first and second air intake zones, it is advantageous that air is allowed to enter the open end of the holder and pass through the distal end of the inhaler article, while still allowing the article to be securely held within the sleeve. Thus, the inhaler article can be consumed by the user while the inhaler article is housed within the holder.

[0060] The holder may include a retaining ring element fixed to the open proximal end of the housing. The retaining ring element can hold the sleeve within the inhaler article cavity. The retaining ring may have sufficient thickness to stop or hold the sleeve from moving within the housing cavity of the holder.

[0061] The holder may include a compressible spring element configured to bias the sleeve between a relaxed position (first position) and a compressed position (second position) toward the open proximal end of the housing. The compressible spring element may be housed within the inhaler article cavity of the holder and may be compressed as the movable sleeve and inhaler article move toward the penetration element. The compressible spring element may be positioned between the sleeve and the distal end of the housing and may be in contact with the sleeve and the distal end of the housing. The compressible spring element may be positioned around the penetration element. The compressible spring element may be coaxial with the penetration element. The compressible spring element may be a conical spring.

[0062] The compressible spring element may be fixed to the distal end of the holder. The compressible spring element may be fixed to the distal end of the sleeve. The compressible spring element may be fixed to the distal end of the protruding element. The compressible spring element may be fixed to the distal end of the connector element. The compressible spring element may be fixed to both the distal end of the holder and the distal end of the sleeve. The compressible spring element may be fixed to both the distal end of the holder and the distal end of the protruding element. The compressible spring element may be fixed to both the distal end of the holder and the distal end of the connector element.

[0063] The compressible spring element may be a conical spring. Advantageously, conical springs can offer a low-profile design, which may provide a more flexible design and a smaller overall compression thickness. Also advantageously, the provision of conical springs may reduce the likelihood of the spring bending when compressed compared to cylindrical springs.

[0064] When the penetrating element activates the inhaler article, the compressible spring element may bias the inhaler article to disengage from the penetrating element and move away from it. The compressible spring element may be positioned around the penetrating element. The compressible spring element may be coaxial with the penetrating element. The penetrating element may extend beyond the compressible spring element when the compressible spring element is in the relaxed position. The penetrating element may extend beyond the compressible spring element when the compressible spring element is in the compressed position. The penetrating element may extend beyond the compressible spring element when the compressible spring element is in both the relaxed and compressed positions. The penetrating element may extend beyond the compressible spring element when the sleeve compresses the compressible spring element.

[0065] Recessing a through-element into the housing can protect it from contact with surfaces it is not intended to come into contact with. Recessing a through-element into the housing can also protect it from damage or deformation caused by surfaces it is not intended to come into contact with.

[0066] The length of the through element can be any appropriate length relative to the housing length. For example, the length of the through element may be about 25% to 60% or about 30% to 50% of the housing length. The distal end of the through element may be fixed to the distal end of the housing adjacent to the distal end or to the distal end of the housing. The distal end of the through element may be fixed to the distal end of the housing at a position adjacent to the distal end of the housing, or at the distal end of the housing. The distal end of the through element may be fixed to the distal end of the housing, or at a position adjacent to the distal end of the housing.

[0067] The total length of the through-element may have the same spread within the length of the housing.

[0068] The penetration element is formed from a rigid material. The rigid material is rigid enough to penetrate, perforate, or activate the capsule contained within the inhaler article. The penetration element may be formed from metal. The penetration element may be formed from stainless steel, such as 316 stainless steel. The penetration element may be formed from polymer material. The penetration element may be formed from fiber-reinforced polymer material.

[0069] The housing can be formed from any rigid material. The housing can also be formed from polymeric materials. Useful polymeric materials for forming the housing include, for example, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, styrene acrylonitrile, polyacrylate, polystyrene, PBT polyester, PET polyester, polyoxymethylene, polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polyethylene ether ketone, or liquid crystal polymers. Polypropylene, polyethylene, or copolymers thereof are preferred materials for forming the housing.

[0070] The inhaler article may be received in the holder such that the outer surface of the inhaler article and the outer surface of the holder housing are concentric. The longitudinal axis of the through element may be coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the housing and the longitudinal axis of the inhaler when the inhaler article is received in the holder. At least about 50% or at least about 75% of the length of the housing may have the same spread as the length of the inhaler when the inhaler article is received in the holder.

[0071] The holder may be formed by insert molding technique. The through element may be formed first, for example, by molding, and then the housing may be molded around the through element and bonded to it. The through element may be a metal through element, and the housing may be molded around the metal through element to fix the metal through element to the housing. The metal through element may include a projection or recess at its distal end, which can increase the surface area of ​​the distal end of the through element and improve fixation within the housing molding material.

[0072] Air channels in an inhaler article may extend through the end cap or end piece element of the inhaler article and provide airflow through the inhaler article. Air channels supplying airflow to the capsule cavity may be configured to receive or induce a swirling airflow pattern within the capsule cavity of the inhaler body. Air channel configurations may induce rotational or swirling airflow as air flows through the air channels and through the capsule cavity. Airflow through the inhaler article may enter the inhaler article at its distal end and travel along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article to the mouthpiece end. Airflow through the inhaler article may enter the inhaler article along the upstream of the inhaler body or along the capsule cavity and travel along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article to the mouthpiece end.

[0073] The inhaler body may resemble a smoking article or cigarette in size and shape. The inhaler body may have an elongated body extending along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler article. The inhaler body may have a substantially uniform outer diameter along the length of the elongated body. The inhaler body may have a circular cross-section which may be uniform along the length of the elongated body. The inhaler body may have an outer diameter in the range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 10 mm, or approximately 7 mm to approximately 10 mm, or approximately 7 mm to approximately 9 mm, or approximately 7 mm to approximately 8 mm, or an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 mm. The inhaler body may have a length (along the longitudinal axis) in the range of approximately 40 mm to approximately 80 mm, or approximately 40 mm to approximately 70 mm, or approximately 40 mm to approximately 50 mm, or a length of 45 mm.

[0074] The inhaler article may have an open distal end or an open upstream end defined by a tubular element defining a central passage. The open central passage may define a cylindrical open opening extending from the capsule cavity to the open distal end or the open upstream end of the inhaler article. The open tubular element defining the open central passage may have a length in the range of approximately 3 mm to approximately 12 mm, or approximately 3 mm to approximately 7 mm, or approximately 4 mm to approximately 6 mm, or a length of approximately 5 mm.

[0075] The open tubular element defining the open central passage may be formed of cellulose material. The open tubular element defining the open central passage may be formed of cellulose acetate material. It is preferable that the open tubular element be formed of a biodegradable material. The open tubular element defining the open central passage may have a thickness in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 1.5 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 1 mm.

[0076] The filter element located downstream of the capsule cavity may extend from the capsule cavity to the mouthpiece end of the inhaler article. The filter element may have a length in the range of about 10 mm to about 30 mm, preferably about 15 mm to about 25 mm, and more preferably about 20 mm to about 22 mm.

[0077] The capsule cavity may define a cylindrical space configured to enclose a capsule (for example, the capsule may have an oval or circular cross-section). The capsule cavity may have a substantially uniform or uniform diameter along its length. The capsule cavity may have a fixed cavity length. The capsule cavity has an internal diameter perpendicular to its longitudinal axis, and the capsule has an external diameter. The capsule cavity may be sized to enclose an oval capsule. The capsule cavity may have a substantially cylindrical or cylindrical cross-section along its length. The capsule cavity may have a uniform internal diameter. The capsule may have an external diameter of about 80% to about 95% of the internal diameter of the capsule cavity. The configuration of the capsule cavity relative to the capsule may facilitate limited movement of the capsule during activation or penetration. The capsule cavity may be defined by an open tubular element. The open tubular element may be coupled between an open tubular element and a filter element forming the distal end of the inhaler article, and may be aligned in contact with them. These elements may be joined together using wrappers. The open tubular elements defining the capsule cavity may be formed from biodegradable materials such as cardboard or thick paper.

[0078] The configuration of the capsule cavity relative to the capsule may facilitate the stable rotation of the capsule within the capsule cavity. The longitudinal axis of the capsule may rotate stably coaxially with the longitudinal axis of the inhaler body during inhalation. The configuration of the capsule cavity relative to the capsule may facilitate the rotation of the capsule within the capsule cavity with some vibration.

[0079] Stable rotation refers to the long axis of the inhaler body being substantially parallel or coaxial with the axis of rotation of the capsule. Stable rotation may mean the absence of forward movement of the rotating capsule. Preferably, the long axis of the inhaler body has substantially the same spread as the axis of rotation of the capsule. Stable rotation of the capsule can provide uniform incorporation of a portion of the nicotine particles from the capsule over two or more, five or more, or ten or more "smokes" or inhalations by the user.

[0080] The capsule may be sealed inside the inhaler article before consumption. The inhaler article may be housed in a sealed or airtight container or bag. The inhaler article may include one or more peelable or removable sealing layers to cover one or more air intake channels, air outlets, or mouthpieces of the inhaler article.

[0081] The capsule may rotate about its longitudinal axis or central axis as air flows through the inhaler article. The capsule may be formed of an airtight material, which may be penetrated or perforated by a penetrating element, which may be separate from the inhaler or combined with the inhaler. The capsule may be formed of a metallic or polymeric material, which functions to prevent contaminants from entering the capsule, but may be penetrated or perforated by a penetrating element before the consumption of nicotine particles inside the capsule. The capsule may be formed of a polymeric material, which may be hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). The capsule may be a size 1 to size 4 capsule, or a size 3 capsule.

[0082] The capsules do not have to contain nicotine. The capsules may contain nicotine.

[0083] The capsule may contain nicotine particles (also called “nicotine powder” or “nicotine particles”) containing nicotine, and optionally, flavor particles (also called “flavor particles”). The capsule may contain a predetermined amount of nicotine particles and optionally flavor particles. The capsule may contain enough nicotine particles to provide at least two inhalations or “smokes,” or at least about five inhalations or “smokes,” or at least about ten inhalations or “smokes.” The capsule may contain enough nicotine particles to provide about five to fifty inhalations or “smokes,” or about ten to 30 inhalations or “smokes.” Each inhalation or “smoke” may deliver about 0.1 mg to about 3 mg of nicotine particles to the user’s lungs, or about 0.2 mg to about 2 mg of nicotine particles to the user’s lungs, or about 1 mg of nicotine particles to the user’s lungs.

[0084] Nicotine particles may have any useful concentration of nicotine based on the specific formulation adopted. Nicotine particles may have at least about 1% to a maximum of about 30% by weight of nicotine, or about 2% to about 25% by weight of nicotine, or about 3% to about 20% by weight of nicotine, or about 4% to about 15% by weight of nicotine, or about 5% to about 13% by weight of nicotine. Preferably, about 50 to about 150 micrograms of nicotine may be delivered to the user's lungs with each inhalation or "smoke-in".

[0085] The capsule may contain or hold at least about 5 mg of nicotine particles, or at least about 10 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule may contain or hold less than about 900 mg of nicotine particles, or less than about 300 mg of nicotine particles, or less than 150 mg of nicotine particles. The capsule may contain or hold about 5 mg to about 300 mg of nicotine particles, or about 10 mg to about 200 mg of nicotine particles.

[0086] When flavor particles are blended or combined with nicotine particles within a capsule, there may be an amount of flavor particles present that provides the desired flavor for each inhalation or "smoke" delivered to the user.

[0087] Nicotine particles may have any size distribution useful for preferential inhalation delivery into the user's lungs. The capsule may contain particles other than nicotine particles. Nicotine particles and other particles may form a powder system.

[0088] The capsule may hold or contain at least about 5 mg of dry powder (also called a powder system) or at least about 10 mg of dry powder. The capsule may hold or contain less than about 900 mg of dry powder, or less than about 300 mg of dry powder, or less than about 150 mg of dry powder. The capsule may hold or contain about 5 mg to about 300 mg of dry powder, or about 10 mg to about 200 mg of dry powder, or about 25 mg to about 100 mg of dry powder. The dry powder or powder system may contain at least about 40% by weight, at least about 60% by weight, or at least about 80% by weight of the powder system containing nicotine particles with a particle size of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 5 micrometers. The nicotine-containing particles may have an aerodynamic median particle size of about 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 0.5 micrometers to about 4 micrometers, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 3 micrometers, or in the range of about 1.5 micrometers to about 2.5 micrometers. The aerodynamic median particle size is preferably measured using a cascade impactor.

[0089] The flavor particles may have an aerodynamic median particle size of about 20 micrometers or more, or about 50 micrometers or more, or in the range of about 50 to about 200 micrometers, or in the range of about 50 to about 150 micrometers. The aerodynamic median particle size is preferably measured using a cascade impactor.

[0090] The dried powder may have a median particle size of about 60 micrometers or less, or in the range of about 1 micrometer to about 40 micrometers, or in the range of about 1.5 micrometers to about 25 micrometers. The average particle size refers to the average particle size per unit mass and is preferably measured by laser diffraction, laser diffusion, or electron microscopy.

[0091] Nicotine in powders or nicotine particles may be pharmaceutically acceptable free base nicotine, or nicotine salts or nicotine salt hydrates. Useful nicotine salts or nicotine salt hydrates include, for example, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine citrate, nicotine aspartate, nicotine lactate, nicotine beetartrate, nicotine salicylate, nicotine fumarate, nicotine monopyruvate, nicotine glutamate, or nicotine hydrochloride. Compounds that combine with nicotine to form salts or salt hydrates may be selected based on their expected pharmacological effects.

[0092] Nicotine particles preferably contain an amino acid. The amino acid may preferably be leucine, such as L-leucine. Providing an amino acid such as L-leucine to nicotine particles may reduce the adhesion of the nicotine particles and the attractive force between nicotine particles, thus reducing aggregation of nicotine particles. Similarly, the adhesion to flavor particles may also be reduced, thus reducing aggregation of nicotine particles with flavor particles. Therefore, the powder systems described herein may be free-flowing materials and may have stable relative particle sizes for each powder component, even when nicotine particles and flavor particles are combined. Preferably, the nicotine may be a surface-modified nicotine salt, in which case the nicotine salt particles include coated particles or composite material particles. A preferred coating material or composite material may be L-leucine. One particularly useful nicotine particle may be nicotine bitartrate containing L-leucine.

[0093] The powder may contain a collection of flavor particles. These flavor particles may have any useful size distribution for selective inhalation delivery to the user's mouth or oral cavity.

[0094] The powder system may contain at least about 40% by weight, or at least about 60% by weight, or at least about 80% by weight, of the group of flavor particles of the powder system that include particles with a particle size of about 20 micrometers or larger. The powder system may contain at least about 40% by weight, or at least about 60% by weight, or at least about 80% by weight, of the group of flavor particles of the powder system that include particles with a particle size of about 50 micrometers or larger. The powder system may contain at least about 40% by weight, or at least about 60% by weight, or at least about 80% by weight, of the group of flavor particles of the powder system that include particles with a particle size in the range of about 50 micrometers to about 150 micrometers.

[0095] Flavor particles may contain compounds to reduce adhesion or surface energy and the resulting aggregation. Flavor particles may be surface-modified with adhesion-reducing compounds to form coated flavor particles. One preferred adhesion-reducing compound may be magnesium stearate. Providing flavor particles with an adhesion-reducing compound such as magnesium stearate, in particular by coating the flavor particles, may reduce the adhesion of the flavor particles, which may reduce the attractive forces between the flavor particles and thus reduce the aggregation of the flavor particles. Thus, the aggregation of flavor particles containing nicotine particles may also be reduced. Therefore, the powder systems described herein may have a stable relative particle size between nicotine particles and flavor particles, even when nicotine particles and flavor particles are combined. The powder systems may preferably be free-flowing.

[0096] Conventional formulations for dry powder inhalation may contain carrier particles that function to increase the fluidity of the active particles, as the active particles may be too small to be affected by the simple airflow passing through the inhaler. The powder system may also contain carrier particles. These carrier particles may be saccharides such as lactose or mannitol, which may have a particle size greater than about 50 micrometers. The carrier particles may be used to improve dose uniformity by acting as a diluent or blowing agent in the formulation. The powder system used with the nicotine powder delivery system described herein may not contain carriers, or may substantially not contain saccharides such as lactose or mannitol. The absence of carriers, or substantially the absence of saccharides such as lactose or mannitol, may allow nicotine to be inhaled and delivered to the user's lungs at an inhalation volume or airflow similar to that of a typical smoking method.

[0097] Nicotine particles and flavors may be combined within a single capsule. As described above, the nicotine particles and flavors may each have reduced adhesion, and if the particle size of each component does not substantially change when combined, they result in a stable particle formulation. Alternatively, the powder system may include nicotine particles contained in a single capsule and flavor particles contained in a second capsule.

[0098] Nicotine particles and flavor particles can be combined in any useful relative amounts so that the user can perceive the flavor particles when consumed together with the nicotine particles. Preferably, the nicotine particles and 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. The inhaler and inhaler system are less complex and have a simplified airflow path compared to conventional dry powder inhalers. Advantageously, the rotation of the capsule within the inhaler body may aerosolize the nicotine particles or powder system and help maintain free-flowing powder. Therefore, the inhaler article may not require the high inhalation volume typically utilized by conventional inhalers to deliver the aforementioned nicotine particles deeply into the lungs.

[0099] The inhaler article may use a flow rate of less than approximately 5 L / min, less than approximately 3 L / min, about 2 L / min, or less than approximately 1.6 L / min. Preferably, the flow rate may be in the range of about 1 L / min to about 3 L / min, or about 1.5 L / min to about 2.5 L / min. Preferably, the inhalation volume or flow rate may be similar to the flow rate of the Health Canada smoking method, i.e., about 1.6 L / min.

[0100] The inhalation system may be used by the user in the same way as smoking a conventional cigarette or vaping an e-cigarette. Such smoking or vaping may be characterized by two steps: in the first step, a small volume containing the total amount of nicotine desired by the user is drawn into the oral cavity; and in the subsequent second step, this small volume containing an aerosol with the desired amount of nicotine is further diluted with fresh air and drawn deeper into the lungs. Both steps are controlled by the user. The user may determine the amount of nicotine to be inhaled during the first inhalation step. In the second step, the user may determine the amount to dilute the first volume and draw deeper into the lungs to maximize the concentration of the activator delivered to the epithelial surface of the airways. This smoking mechanism is sometimes called "inhalation-exhalation."

[0101] Pharmacologically active particles may have an aerodynamic median particle size of approximately 5 micrometers or less, or in the range of approximately 0.5 micrometers to approximately 4 micrometers, or in the range of approximately 1 micrometer to approximately 3 micrometers.

[0102] The capsule may further contain a second group of flavor particles having an aerodynamic median particle size in the range of approximately 20 micrometers or more, or approximately 50 micrometers or more, or approximately 50 to approximately 200 micrometers, or approximately 50 to approximately 150 micrometers.

[0103] The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives (e.g., free base nicotine, nicotine salts, and similar substances).

[0104] The terms “flavoring” or “flavor” refer to any stimulating compound, composition, or material that alters, or is intended to alter, the taste or aroma properties of nicotine during consumption or inhalation.

[0105] The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative positions of the elements of the holder, inhaler article, and inhaler system, described in relation to the direction of the inhalation airflow as the inhalation airflow is drawn through the holder, inhaler article, and the body of the inhaler system.

[0106] The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used to describe the relative positions of a holder, inhaler article, or component or part of a system. According to the present invention, a holder or an element forming a holder (such as a sleeve) has a proximal end that receives the inhaler article when in use, and an opposing distal end that may be a closing end or has an end close to the proximal end of the holder. According to the present invention, the inhaler article has a proximal end. When in use, nicotine particles exit the proximal end of the inhaler article for delivery to the user. The inhaler article has a distal end opposite the proximal end. The proximal end of the inhaler article may also be called the oral end.

[0107] The holder for inhaler articles described herein may be combined with an inhaler article to contain a capsule for activating the inhaler article by penetrating the capsule, to provide reliable activation of the capsule within the inhaler article (by perforating the capsule with the holder's penetrating element), and to release the particles contained within the capsule, allowing the article to deliver the particles to the user. The holder is separate from the inhaler article, but the user may use both the inhaler article and the holder while consuming the particles released within the inhaler article. Multiple such inhaler articles may be combined with holders to form a system or kit. A single holder may be used with 10 or more, 25 or more, 50 or more, or 100 or more inhaler articles to activate (perforate or penetrate) the capsule contained within each inhaler article and to provide a visual indication (marking) of activation for each inhaler article, for reliable activation or optionally.

[0108] The holder for inhaler articles described herein may be combined with an inhaler article to contain a capsule for activating the inhaler article by penetrating the capsule, to provide reliable activation of the capsule within the inhaler article (by perforating the capsule with the holder's penetrating element), and to release the particles contained within the capsule, allowing the article to deliver the particles to the user. The holder is separate from the inhaler article, but the user may use both the inhaler article and the holder while consuming the particles released within the inhaler article. Multiple such inhaler articles may be combined with holders to form a system or kit. A single holder may be used with 10 or more, 25 or more, 50 or more, or 100 or more inhaler articles to activate (perforate or penetrate) the capsule contained within each inhaler article and to provide a visual indication (marking) of activation for each inhaler article, for reliable activation or optionally.

[0109] The inhaler system comprises an inhaler article as described herein and a holder for the inhaler article. The sleeve of the holder holds the inhaler article received within the sleeve cavity. The capsule may be located within the body of the inhaler article. The inhaler article may include a body extending along the longitudinal axis of the inhaler from the mouthpiece end to the distal end. The capsule cavity may be defined within the body, bounded downstream by a filter element and bound upstream by a tubular element defining a central passage. The central passage may form an air inlet opening extending from the distal end of the body toward the capsule cavity. The capsule may be located within the capsule cavity, and the central passage may have a smaller diameter than the capsule. Therefore, the capsule does not have to pass through the central passage and is held within the capsule cavity.

[0110] At least one lever member may be formed from an elastically deformable material. Suitable elastically deformable materials may include thermoplastic materials. Suitable elastically deformable materials may include polyether ether ketone, polyamide, acetal (polyacetal or polyoxymethylene), polybutylene terephthalate, styrene acrylonitrile, or other materials that can be biased and elastically deformable. At least one lever member may be formed from acetal (polyacetal or polyoxymethylene). At least one lever member may be formed from polyether ether ketone. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0111] [Figure 1] Figure 1a shows the inhaler system. Figure 1b shows the inhaler components. [Figure 2] Figures 2a and 2b show the housing of the holder for the inhaler article. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows the sleeve of the holder for inhaler articles. [Figure 4] Figures 4a and 4b show the housing of the holder for the inhaler article. [Figure 5] Figures 5a and 5b show holders for inhaler articles. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the operating principle of a holder for inhaler articles. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the operating principle of a holder for inhaler articles. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the operating principle of a holder for inhaler accessories. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the operating principle of a holder for inhaler accessories. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows the operating principle of a holder for inhaler articles. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0112] [Examples] A non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below. One or more features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of other embodiments, forms, or aspects described herein.

[0113] Example 1: A holder for inhaler articles, the holder is Housing including housing cavity, A sleeve positioned within a housing cavity, the sleeve including a sleeve cavity disposed for receiving an inhaler article, and the sleeve being movable between a first position and a second position within the housing cavity, A penetrating element is provided to penetrate the inhaler article received within the sleeve as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position, A lockout mechanism comprising at least one lever member of the sleeve and a retaining section of the housing, At least one lever member is positioned in a neutral configuration when the inhaler article is not inserted into the sleeve. At least one lever member is positioned to move from a neutral configuration to an operating configuration when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. When in operation, at least one lever member is arranged to engage with the retaining section as the sleeve moves from a second position back to a first position. The retaining section is arranged to hold at least one lever member when engaged with the retaining section, and therefore to hold the sleeve in a first position. A holder having at least one lever member, which is arranged to disengage from the retaining section when the inhaler article is removed from the sleeve and returns to a neutral configuration. Example 2: The holder according to Embodiment 1, wherein the retaining section comprises at least one retaining element for engaging with at least one lever member. Example 3: A holder according to either Embodiment 1 or 2, comprising at least one spring element for pushing at least one lever member toward a neutral configuration. Example 4: The holder according to Embodiment 3, wherein at least one spring element is blade-shaped. Example 5: The holder according to Example 3 or Example 4, wherein at least one spring element is made of metal or alloy, preferably stainless steel, more preferably AISI 301 stainless steel. Example 6: A holder according to any of Examples 3 to 5, wherein at least one spring element is fixed to the housing. Example 7: The holder according to Embodiment 6, wherein each first end of at least one spring element is fixed to the housing, and each second end of at least one spring element is directed into the housing cavity to press against each of at least one lever members of a sleeve positioned within the housing cavity. Example 8: The holder according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the holder is arranged such that the sleeve moves between a first position and a second position along the longitudinal axis of the holder, and the holder is arranged such that at least a portion of each of at least one lever member moves laterally when changing between an operational configuration and a neutral configuration, and the laterally direction is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Example 9: A holder according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein at least one lever member extends into the sleeve cavity in a neutral configuration. Example 10: The holder according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the retaining section is shaped to hold at least a portion of each of at least one lever member within the retaining section so as to resist the movement of the sleeve when at least one lever member reaches the retaining section. Example 11: The holder according to Embodiment 10, wherein the retaining section includes at least one contact surface disposed to resist the lateral movement of at least one lever member. Example 12: At least one lever member is integrally formed with the tubular body of the sleeve, or The holder according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein at least one lever member is a separate component attached to the tubular body of the sleeve. Example 13: The holder according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein at least one lever member comprises a first end connected to the tubular body of the sleeve and a second end including a tip engagement mechanism extending from the respective lever member. Example 14: The holder according to Embodiment 13, wherein the tip engagement mechanism is configured to directly contact the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve, and to move by contact with the inhaler article. Example 15: The holder according to Embodiment 14, wherein the tip engagement mechanism includes a projection facing the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve cavity. Example 16: The holder according to any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the angle between the distal end face of at least one lever member and a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of at least one lever member is 2 to 12 degrees, preferably 3 to 10 degrees. Example 17: A holder for inhaler articles, the holder is Housing including housing cavity, A sleeve positioned within a housing cavity, the sleeve including a sleeve cavity disposed for receiving an inhaler article, and the sleeve being movable between a first position and a second position within the housing cavity, A penetrating element is provided to penetrate the inhaler article received within the sleeve as the sleeve moves from a first position to a second position, A lockout mechanism comprising a first lever member of the sleeve, a second lever member of the sleeve, and a retaining section of the housing, The first and second lever members are arranged to be in a neutral position when the inhaler article is not inserted into the sleeve. The first and second lever members are arranged to move from a neutral configuration to an operating configuration when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. When in operation, the first and second lever members are arranged to engage with the retaining section as the sleeve moves from the second position back to the first position. The retaining section is arranged to hold the first and second lever members when they are engaged with the retaining section, and thus to hold the sleeve in the first position, The first and second lever members are arranged to disengage from the retaining section when the inhaler article is removed from the sleeve and returns to a neutral configuration, in the holder. Example 18: The holder according to Embodiment 17, wherein the retaining section comprises a first retaining element for engaging with a first lever member and a second retaining element for engaging with a second lever member. Example 19: The holder according to Embodiment 17 or Embodiment 18, wherein the first lever member and the second lever member are positioned on opposing sides of the sleeve cavity. Example 20: A holder according to any one of Examples 17 to 19, comprising a first spring element for pushing a first lever member toward a neutral configuration, and a second spring element for pushing a second lever member toward a neutral configuration. Example 21: The holder according to Example 20, wherein the first and second spring elements are blade-shaped. Example 22: The holder according to Example 20 or Example 21, wherein the first and second spring elements are made of metal or alloy, preferably stainless steel, more preferably AISI 301 stainless steel. Example 23: The first and second spring elements are fixed to the housing, as described in any of Examples 20 to 22. Example 24: The holder according to Embodiment 23, wherein the first ends of the first spring element and the second spring element are fixed to the housing, and the second ends of the first spring element and the second spring element are directed inward into the housing cavity to press against the respective first and second lever members of a sleeve positioned within the housing cavity. Example 25: The sleeve is a holder according to any one of Examples 1 to 24, comprising one or more polymer materials, preferably polycarbonate, glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate, and POM (polyacetal). Example 26: The holder according to Example 25, wherein the sleeve is made from a polymer material containing 5% to 50% by weight, or 5% to 15% by weight, or preferably 15% to 25% by weight or 25% to 35% by weight, preferably about 30% by weight of fiber material. Example 27: The holder according to Example 26, wherein the fiber material is a glass fiber material, preferably the polymer material is a polycarbonate-based material, and the fiber material is a glass fiber material. Example 28: The holder according to any one of Examples 17 to 27, wherein the holder is arranged such that the sleeve moves between a first position and a second position along the longitudinal axis of the holder, and the holder is arranged such that at least a portion of each of the first and second lever members moves along the lateral direction when changing between an operational configuration and a neutral configuration, and the lateral direction is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Example 29: The holder according to any one of Examples 17 to 28, wherein the first and second lever members extend into the sleeve cavity in a neutral configuration. Example 30: The holder according to any one of embodiments 17 to 29, wherein the retaining section is shaped to hold at least a portion of each of the first and second lever members within the retaining section so as to resist the movement of the sleeve when the first and second lever members reach the retaining section. Example 31: The holder according to Embodiment 30, wherein the retaining section includes at least one contact surface disposed to resist the lateral movement of the first and second lever members. Example 32: The first and second lever members are formed integrally with the tubular body of the sleeve, or The holder according to any of Examples 17 to 31, wherein the first and second lever members are separate components attached to the tubular body of the sleeve. Example 33: The holder according to any one of embodiments 17 to 32, wherein each of the first and second lever members comprises a first end connected to the tubular body of the sleeve and a second end including a tip engagement mechanism extending from the respective lever member. Example 34: The holder according to Embodiment 33, wherein the tip engagement mechanism is configured to directly contact the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve, and to move by contact with the inhaler article. Example 35: The holder according to Embodiment 34, wherein the tip engagement mechanism includes a projection facing toward the central axis in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve cavity. Example 36: A holder according to any one of Examples 17 to 35, wherein the angle between the distal end face of the first lever member and a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first lever member is 3 to 10 degrees, and the angle between the distal end face of the second lever member and a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second lever member is 3 to 10 degrees. Example 37: A protruding element disposed at the bottom end of the housing cavity, which is arranged to protrude into the distal end of the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve cavity, and optionally comprises a protruding element The holder according to any one of Examples 1 to 36, wherein the protruding element is arranged to protrude into the sleeve cavity when the sleeve is in a second position. Example 38: The holder according to Example 37, wherein the protruding element has a tubular shape. Example 39: The holder according to any of Examples 1 to 38, wherein the inside of the housing wall is provided with a plurality of rib elements extending in the circumferential direction. Example 40: An inhaler system comprising a holder and an inhaler article as described in any one of Examples 1 to 39, wherein the inhaler article includes a capsule disposed within a capsule cavity of the inhaler article, preferably the capsule containing pharmaceutically active particles, and optionally the pharmaceutically active particles containing nicotine. Example 41: The inhaler system according to Embodiment 40, wherein the system is configured to fold the distal end wall of the inhaler article inward toward the tubular side wall of the inhaler article as the sleeve moves to a second position when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve.

[0114] Features described in relation to one embodiment may be equally applicable to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0115] The present invention will be further described with reference to the attached drawings, for illustrative purposes only.

[0116] Figure 1a shows an inhaler system including a holder 10 and a separate inhaler article 100. The holder 10 has an opening at its proximal end for receiving at least the distal portion of the inhaler article 100. The inhaler article 100 is received within the holder 10 and activates or penetrates a capsule placed inside the inhaler article 100. The inhaler article 100 may remain within the holder 10 during use by the user. The holder 10 and the inhaler article 100 may be configured to provide a swirling inhalation airflow through the received inhaler article 100.

[0117] Figure 1b shows a cross-sectional view of the inhaler article 100. The inhaler article 100 has a longitudinal central axis 102 extending between a distal end 104 and a proximal end 106. The distal end 104 is at least partially closed. The proximal end 106 is configured as a mouthpiece. The inhaler article 100 further includes a capsule 108 disposed within a tubular element 110.

[0118] Figures 2a and 2b show the housing of the holder 10 for the inhaler article 100. The housing comprises a first housing main section 12, shown in two different perspective views in Figure 2a. The housing comprises a second housing main section 14, shown in two different perspective views in Figure 2b. The two main sections 12 and 14 are fitted together to form a single housing with a housing cavity, which is surrounded by the two connected main sections 12 and 14.

[0119] The housing includes a retaining section for engaging with the lever member of the sleeve. The retaining section includes a first retaining element 16 of the first housing main portion 12. The retaining section includes a second retaining element 18 of the second housing main portion 14. When the two main portions 12 and 14 are connected to each other, the first retaining element 16 and the second retaining element 18 are located on opposing sides of the housing cavity.

[0120] The interior walls of the first housing main section 12 and the second housing main section 14 are provided with a plurality of rib elements 20 extending in the circumferential direction. The rib elements 20 can provide additional mechanical stability to the housing.

[0121] Figure 3 shows the sleeve 22 of the holder 10 for the inhaler article 100 in three different perspective views. The sleeve 22 includes a sleeve cavity 24 disposed to receive the inhaler article 100. The sleeve 22 includes a first lever member 26 and a second lever member 28. The first and second lever members 26 and 28 form part of the lockout mechanism of the holder 10. The first lever member 26 and the second lever member 28 are disposed on opposing sides of the sleeve cavity 24. The first and second lever members 26 and 28 are integrally formed with the tubular body of the sleeve 22. Each of the first and second lever members 26 and 28 comprises a first end (see first end 26a of the first lever member 26) that is coupled to the tubular body of the sleeve 22 and integrally formed with the tubular body of the sleeve 22, and a second end (see second end 26b of the first lever member 26) that includes a tip engagement mechanism 30 extending from each of the lever members 26 and 28.

[0122] In the neutral configuration shown, the first and second lever members 26, 28 extend into the sleeve cavity 24. More specifically, the tip engagement mechanisms 30 of the lever members 26, 28 extend into the sleeve cavity 24. The tip engagement mechanisms 30 are configured to directly contact the inhaler article 100 and to move by contact with the inhaler article 100 when the inhaler article 100 is inserted into the sleeve 22.

[0123] Figure 4a shows a blade-shaped spring element 32 for pushing the lever members 26 and 28 toward the neutral configuration.

[0124] Figure 4b shows the spring element 32 fixed to the housing. In particular, in the shown embodiment, the first end 32a of the spring element 32 is fixed to one of the first housing main 12 and the second housing main 14. The second end 32b of the spring element 32 faces inward into the housing cavity to press against the respective lever members 26, 28 of the sleeve 22 when the sleeve 22 is positioned within the housing cavity.

[0125] The retaining section is shaped to hold at least a portion of each of the first and second lever members 26, 28 within the retaining section so as to resist the movement of the sleeve 22 when the first and second lever members 26, 28 reach the retaining section. The retaining section includes at least one contact surface 19 disposed to resist the lateral movement of each lever member 26, 28 when the lever members are in operation and engaged with the retaining section.

[0126] Figures 5a and 5b show a holder 10 for an inhaler article 100. Figure 5a shows a side view of the holder 10. Figure 5b shows a cross-sectional view of the holder 10. The inhaler article 100 is shown only in Figure 5a. The holder 10 comprises a housing, which includes a housing cavity. The housing comprises a first housing main portion 12 and a second housing main portion 14, which are provided with circumferentially extending rib elements 20. The housing further comprises a proximal housing portion 15. The proximal housing portion 15 may form a retaining ring element fixed to the open proximal end of the housing. The retaining ring element may hold a sleeve 22 within the housing cavity. The housing further comprises an outer shell 34 of the housing, which is shown only in Figure 5b and omitted in Figure 5a.

[0127] The holder 10 comprises a sleeve 22 positioned within a housing cavity. The sleeve 22 includes a sleeve cavity 24, which is disposed to receive an inhaler article 100 through an opening in the cavity 24 at the proximal end of the holder 10. The sleeve 22 is movable between a first position and a second position within the housing cavity. The holder 10 comprises a penetrating element 36, preferably a needle, which is disposed to penetrate the inhaler article 100 received within the sleeve 22 when the sleeve 22 moves from the first position to the second position. The holder 10 comprises a lockout mechanism including a first lever member 26 of the sleeve 22, a second lever member 28 of the sleeve 22, and a retaining section of the housing.

[0128] The retaining section comprises a first retaining element 16 for engaging with the first lever member 26 and a second retaining element 18 for engaging with the second lever member 28. The first lever member 26 and the second lever member 28 are arranged on opposing sides of the sleeve cavity 24.

[0129] The holder 10 includes a first spring element 32 for pushing the first lever member 26 toward the neutral position, and a second spring element 32 for pushing the second lever member 28 toward the neutral position. In Figure 5b, the inhaler article 100 is not inserted, the sleeve 22 is in the first position, and the first and second lever members 26 and 28 are in the neutral position.

[0130] The first ends of the first and second spring elements 32 are fixed to the respective main housing portions 12 and 14, and the second ends of the first and second spring elements 32 are directed inward into the housing cavity to press against the respective first and second lever members 26 and 28 of the sleeve 22, which is positioned within the housing cavity.

[0131] The holder 10 includes a tubular projection element 38 positioned at the bottom end of the housing cavity. The outer diameter of the projection element may be smaller than the inner diameter of the sleeve. The projection element 38 is positioned to protrude into the distal end of the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve cavity. The projection element 38 may also be positioned to protrude into the sleeve cavity 24 when the sleeve 22 is in a second position. The projection element 38 is connected to a connector element 40, which is further connected to a helical spring 42. The helical spring 42 may push the sleeve 22 toward a first position. Thereafter, the sleeve 22 can be automatically pushed from the second position to the first position when the first and second lever members 26, 28 are in a neutral configuration. Due to the inner channels of the projection element 38 and the connector element 40, the through element 36 can be pushed through the projection element 38 and the connector element 40.

[0132] Figures 6-10 illustrate the operating principle of a holder for an inhaler article, such as the holders in Figures 5a and 5b. Figures 6a-10a show different configurations of the holder and the inhaler article 100 in side views, and the upper half of the holder is shown in a cross-sectional view to show the internal components. Figures 6b-10b show enlarged cross-sectional views of a portion of the holder in each configuration. Arrows indicate the movement of the components.

[0133] Figures 6a and 6b show the first step of the operating mechanism of holder 10.

[0134] Figure 6a shows the holder 10 and a separate inhaler article 100 in the upper diagram. Figure 6a shows the holder 10 after the inhaler article 100 has been initially inserted into the sleeve cavity 24 in the lower diagram.

[0135] Figure 6b shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the holder 10 in the configuration in which the inhaler article 100 shown in the lower diagram of Figure 6a is initially inserted. The sleeve 22 is still in the first position. The first and second lever members 26, 28 are still in the neutral configuration. The helical spring 42 is in the relaxed state.

[0136] Figures 7a and 7b show the second step following the operation mechanism of the holder 10. As the inhaler article 100 is further inserted, the sleeve 22 moves distally toward the through element 36 and to the second position. The sleeve 22 moves between the first and second positions along the longitudinal axis of the holder 10.

[0137] The protruding element 38 and the connector element 40 are also pushed distally and moved by the further insertion of the inhaler article 100. As a result, the helical spring 42 is in a compressed state. Depending on the length of the through element 36 and the position of the capsule 108 within the inhaler article 100, the through element 36 may penetrate the hole into the capsule 108 received within the inhaler article 100 in the steps shown in Figures 7a and 7b. Alternatively, the through element 36 may penetrate the hole into the capsule 108 received within the inhaler article 100 only after further insertion of the inhaler article 100 in subsequent steps, as shown in Figures 8a-8c.

[0138] Figures 8a-8c show a third step following the operation mechanism of the holder 10. The inhaler article 100 is further inserted distally. As a result, the distal end 104 of the inhaler article 100 is deformed by the protruding element 38. A portion of the distal end 104 is folded inward. Thus, the distal end wall 104 of the inhaler article 100 is folded inward toward the tubular side wall of the tubular element 110 as the inhaler article 100 moves further toward the tubular protruding element 38. The protruding element 38 is positioned between the tip engagement mechanism 30 of the first lever member 26 and the tip engagement mechanism 30 of the second lever member 28. The folded tubular distal end portion of the inhaler article 100 is positioned coaxially between the protruding element 38 and the tip engagement mechanism 30. The folded end of the inhaler article 100 is shown in more detail in Figure 8c. As shown in Figures 8a and 8b, the folded wall of the distal end 104 makes the tubular sidewall of the inhaler article 100 thicker overall in the distal portion of the article 100, thereby pushing the first and second lever members 26, 28 radially outward from the neutral configuration to the operational configuration. The holder 10 is arranged so that at least a portion of each of the first lever member 26 and the second lever member 28 moves along the lateral direction when changing between the operational and neutral configurations. The lateral direction is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the holder.

[0139] Figures 9a and 9b show a fourth step in the holder's operating mechanism. After the hole penetrates the capsule, the inhaler article 100 is released and moves proximal away from the penetration element 36. The first and second lever members 26, 28 are configured to operate such that the first and second retaining elements 16, 18 are slightly bent radially outward as the first and second lever members 26, 28 are moved by the first and second retaining elements 16, 18.

[0140] Figures 10a and 10b show the fifth subsequent step of the holder's operating mechanism. The sleeve 22, having the first and second lever members 26, 28, moves further proximal, with the first and second lever members 26, 28 moving so as to pass by the first and second retaining elements 16, 18. Here, the inhaler article 100 cannot move distally toward the penetration element 36 because the first and second lever members 26 and 28, which are pushed outward toward the operating configuration, engage with the first and second retaining elements 16 and 18. Thus, the first and second retaining elements 16, 18 prevent the sleeve 22 from moving. Hence, a second penetration of the capsule is impossible.

[0141] In the final sixth step, the inhaler article 100 is completely removed from the holder 10. With the inhaler article 100 absent, the first and second lever members 26, 28 move from the operational configuration back to a relaxed neutral configuration so that they are disengaged from the first and second retaining elements 16, 18. As a result, the longitudinal movement of the sleeve 22 is no longer obstructed by the retaining section. The helical spring 42 then pushes the sleeve 22 back to the initial first position shown in Figures 6a and 6b.

Claims

1. A holder for an inhaler article, wherein the holder is Housing including housing cavity, A sleeve positioned within a housing cavity, wherein the sleeve includes a sleeve cavity disposed to receive the inhaler article, and the sleeve is movable between a first position and a second position within the housing cavity. When the sleeve moves from the first position to the second position, a penetrating element is provided so as to penetrate the inhaler article received within the sleeve, A lockout mechanism comprising at least one lever member of the sleeve and a retaining section of the housing, The housing cavity comprises a protruding element disposed at the bottom end of the housing cavity, which is arranged to protrude into the distal end of the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve cavity, The at least one lever member is arranged to be in a neutral position when the inhaler article is not inserted into the sleeve. The at least one lever member is arranged to move from the neutral configuration to the operating configuration by the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve. In the aforementioned operating configuration, the at least one lever member is arranged to engage with the retaining section when the sleeve moves from the second position back to the first position. The retaining section is arranged to hold the at least one lever member when engaged with the retaining section, and therefore to hold the sleeve in the first position. The holder is configured such that at least one lever member is disengaged from the retaining section when the inhaler article is removed from the sleeve and returns to the neutral configuration.

2. The holder according to claim 1, further comprising at least one spring element for pushing the at least one lever member toward the neutral configuration.

3. The holder according to claim 2, wherein the at least one spring element is blade-shaped, and preferably the at least one blade-shaped spring element is made of metal or alloy, more preferably stainless steel, more preferably AISI 301 stainless steel.

4. The holder according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one spring element is fixed to the housing.

5. The holder according to claim 4, wherein the first end of the at least one spring element is fixed to the housing, and the second end of the at least one spring element is directed toward the housing cavity to press each of the at least one lever members of the sleeve positioned within the housing cavity.

6. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the sleeve comprises a polymer material and a fiber material, preferably the fiber material is a glass fiber material, and more preferably the polymer material is a polycarbonate-based material and the fiber material is a glass fiber material.

7. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the holder is arranged such that the sleeve moves between the first position and the second position along the longitudinal axis of the holder, and the holder is arranged such that at least a portion of each of the at least one lever member moves along the lateral direction when changing between the operating configuration and the neutral configuration, and the lateral direction is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

8. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein at least one lever member extends into the sleeve cavity in the neutral configuration.

9. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the retaining section is shaped to hold at least a portion of each of the at least one lever member within the retaining section so as to resist the movement of the sleeve when the at least one lever member reaches the retaining section, and preferably the retaining section comprises at least one contact surface disposed to resist the lateral movement of the at least one lever member.

10. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein each of the at least one lever member comprises a first end connected to the tubular body of the sleeve and a second end including a tip engagement mechanism extending from the respective lever member, preferably the tip engagement mechanism is configured to move in contact with the inhaler article so as to directly contact the inhaler article when the inhaler article is inserted into the sleeve.

11. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one lever member includes a first lever member and a second lever member.

12. The holder according to claim 11, wherein the retaining section comprises a first retaining element for engaging with the first lever member and a second retaining element for engaging with the second lever member.

13. The holder according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the first lever member and the second lever member are arranged on opposing sides of the sleeve cavity.

14. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the protruding element has a tubular shape.

15. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the protruding element is configured to move together with the sleeve when the sleeve moves between the first position and the second position.

16. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the distal end of the through-element is fixed to a distal end adjacent to the distal end of the housing, or to the distal end of the housing.

17. An inhaler system comprising a holder and an inhaler article according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the inhaler article includes a capsule disposed within a capsule cavity of the inhaler article, preferably the capsule contains pharmaceutically active particles, and optionally the pharmaceutically active particles contain nicotine.

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