Cartridge and inhaler containing the same

Abstract

An inhaler cartridge includes a housing that forms the exterior of the cartridge, a containment section formed in the housing for containing a target substance, a passage section formed in the housing for fluid connection between the outside of the housing and the containment section, and an opening formed in the housing for the target substance contained in the containment section to pass through, wherein the containment section includes a first surface extending in a first direction and a second surface inclined with respect to the first direction, one end of the second surface being connected to the passage section and the other end of the second surface being connected to the opening.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Various embodiments of the present invention relate to a cartridge and an inhaler including the same, and more particularly, to a cartridge having an improved internal structure and an inhaler including the same. [Background Art]

[0002] Research has been conducted on inhalers that deliver a target substance directly to a user's lungs. Herein, the target substance refers to theanine, caffeine, taurine, nicotine and the like, and the target substance may be in the form of fine granules or dry powder.

[0003] The target substance may be stored in a cartridge. In this case, the cartridge can be used by being mounted on an inhaler. When all of the target substance is consumed, the inhaler can be used continuously by refilling the target substance or replacing the cartridge.

[0004] Fields to which inhalers are applied include e-cigarettes in which tobacco substances are stored, and drug inhalation devices that aerosolize pharmaceutical substances for the treatment of diseases such as asthma and lung diseases. [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0005] When a user holds the mouthpiece of the inhaler in their mouth and inhales the target substance, the target substance moves through the inside of the cartridge and the inhaler together with air, and can be inhaled into the user's oral cavity. In this case, there is a need to design the cartridge and the inhaler such that air can effectively carry the target substance.

[0006] Additionally, in the design of an inhaler, it is necessary to provide a hole through which air flows into the cartridge, but the target substance may flow out of the inhaler through this hole. Therefore, there is a need to design the cartridge and the inhaler to minimize such a phenomenon.

[0007] On the other hand, the target substance stored inside the cartridge may exist in an aggregated form. From the user's perspective, the smaller the particles, the easier it is to inhale them without resistance. Therefore, a structure is needed to deaggregate the aggregated particles inside the inhaler before the user inhales the target substance.

[0008] The embodiment provides a cartridge having an inclined internal structure and an inhaler containing the same.

[0009] Furthermore, the embodiment provides a cartridge and an inhaler containing the same, designed so that the air inlet portion is bent one or more times.

[0010] Furthermore, the embodiment provides a cartridge having a cyclone structure and an inhaler containing the same.

[0011] The problems to be addressed through these embodiments are not limited to those described above, and any problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which these embodiments belong, based on this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] A cartridge according to one embodiment includes a housing that forms the exterior of the cartridge, a containment section formed in the housing for containing a target substance, a passage section formed in the housing for fluid connection between the outside of the housing and the containment section, and an opening formed in the housing for the target substance contained in the containment section to pass through, wherein the containment section includes a first surface extending in a first direction and a second surface inclined with respect to the first direction, one end of the second surface may be connected to the passage section and the other end of the second surface may be connected to the opening.

[0013] An inhaler according to one embodiment includes a body including a housing, a body including a housing space for housing the cartridge, a mouthpiece protruding from the body and in contact with the user's mouth, and a flow path connecting the opening of the cartridge to the mouthpiece, wherein the housing includes a first surface extending in a first direction and a second surface inclined with respect to the first direction, one end of the second surface may be connected to the flow path and the other end of the second surface may be connected to the opening. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the embodiment, the cartridge and the inhaler containing the same can effectively deliver the target substance to the user.

[0015] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, the cartridge and the inhaler containing the same can prevent the leakage of the target substance through parts other than the mouthpiece.

[0016] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, the cartridge and the inhaler containing the same can prevent particles larger than a certain size from entering the user's body and improve the sensation of inhaling the target substance.

[0017] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those described above, and any effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments pertain from this specification and the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the main body of an inhaler and a cartridge separated therefrom, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] This is a perspective view of a cartridge according to one embodiment. [Figure 2B] It is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of FIG. 2A cut along the line A-A'. [Figure 3A] It is a perspective view of an inhaler main body according to one embodiment. [Figure 3B] It is a cross-sectional view of the inhaler main body of FIG. 3A cut along the line B-B'. [Figure 4] It is a side view of an inhaler according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a perspective view showing another example of a chamber applied to the inhaler of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] It is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to another embodiment in which a door is applied. [Figure 7A] It is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 7B] It is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 7C] It is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment in which a blocking portion is applied. [Figure 9A] It is a cross-sectional view of an inhaler according to yet another embodiment mounted with a cartridge that can be used even when inverted. [Figure 9B] It is a cross-sectional view of an inhaler according to yet another embodiment mounted with a cartridge that can be used even when inverted. [Figure 10A] It is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment in which a door is applied to the cartridge of FIG. 9A. [Figure 10B] It is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment in which the blocking portion of the cartridge of FIG. 9A is applied. [Figure 11A] It is a perspective view showing a main body of an inhaler according to an embodiment in which a fastening structure is applied, and a cartridge separated therefrom. [Figure 11B] It is a perspective view showing a main body of an inhaler according to an embodiment in which a fastening structure is applied, and a cartridge separated therefrom. [Figure 12]To illustrate the internal structure of the inhaler body, Figure 11B shows perspective views of the inhaler body and cartridge from different angles. [Figure 13A] Figure 12 is an exploded front view showing the inhaler body in the first operating state. [Figure 13B] Figure 12 is an exploded front view showing the inhaler body in the second operating state. [Figure 14A] This is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing how the fastening groove of the cartridge is connected to the inhaler body through fastening with the fastening member in the first operating state. [Figure 14B] This is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing how the fastening groove of the cartridge is connected to the inhaler body through fastening with the fastening member in the second operating state. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0019] The terminology used in the embodiments is selected as widely used and general terms as possible, taking into account the function of the present invention, although this may vary depending on the intent of the articulators in the field, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In certain cases, the applicant may have arbitrarily selected terms, in which case their meaning will be described in detail in the description of the invention. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not merely names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the term and the overall content of the present invention.

[0020] Throughout the specification, when a part "includes" a component, it means, unless otherwise specified, that it does not exclude other components, but rather that it may include other components. Furthermore, terms such as "...part" and "...module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which is embodied by hardware or software, or by a combination of hardware and software.

[0021] As used herein, when an expression such as “at least one of the following” precedes a set of elements, it modifies the entire set of elements, not each of the elements themselves. For example, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” must be interpreted as including a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0022] Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed herein, if a specific description of such prior art is deemed to obscure the gist of the embodiments disclosed herein, such detailed description will be omitted. In addition, the accompanying drawings are merely for the purpose of facilitating the understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, and it should be understood that the accompanying drawings do not limit the technical ideas disclosed herein and include all modifications, equivalents, or substitutes that fall within the concept and technical scope of the present invention.

[0023] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe a variety of components, but the components are not limited by such terms. The terms are simply used to distinguish one component from another.

[0024] When it is mentioned that one component is "linked" or "connected" to another component, it must be understood that it is either directly linked to the other component, or connected but with other components in between. On the other hand, when it is mentioned that one component is "directly linked" or "directly connected" to another component, it must be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0025] A singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, so that they can be easily implemented by a person with ordinary skill in the art. Regardless of the reference numerals in the drawings, identical or similar components will be given the same reference numeral, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0027] The present invention may be implemented in a form that can be embodied in the aerosol generating apparatus of the various embodiments described above, or in various different forms, and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0028] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0029] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the main body of an inhaler and a cartridge separated therefrom according to one embodiment.

[0030] Referring to Figure 1, an inhaler 1 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 and a cartridge 200.

[0031] The main body 100 can occupy most of the external appearance of the inhaler 1. The cartridge 200 can be detachably attached to a part of the main body 100, thereby forming a part of the external appearance of the inhaler 1 together with the main body 100.

[0032] The embodiments are not limited to examples in which the cartridge 200 is detachably coupled to the main body 100; the cartridge 200 may be formed integrally with the main body 100. However, the following description will focus on embodiments in which the cartridge 200 is detachably coupled to the main body 100, and the main body 100 and the cartridge 200 are each treated as components of the inhaler 1. In this case, the remaining components excluding the cartridge 200 can be referred to as the main body 100.

[0033] Referring to Figure 1, the main body 100 may include the body 110 and the mouthpiece 120.

[0034] The body 110 can form the exterior of the inhaler 1 and serve to house and protect the components of the inhaler 1. For example, the body 110 can house the cartridge 200.

[0035] As shown in the illustration, the body 110 includes, but is not limited to, a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and can be manufactured in a variety of shapes such as cylindrical, oval-shaped, or polygonal prism shape, and the embodiment is not limited to the shape of the body 110 shown in Figure 1.

[0036] The body 110 may include a housing space (not shown) for housing a cartridge 200. The housing space 110i may be formed in the lower part of the body 110. The housing space may be open on the lower side to allow access to the cartridge 200. At least a portion of the cartridge 200 may be housed inside the body 110 through the lower opening of the housing space. The housing space may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the cartridge 200. For example, the housing space may be rectangular.

[0037] The mouthpiece 120 is configured to act as a passage for the target substance stored inside the inhaler 1 to move to the outside of the inhaler 1. The mouthpiece 120 is positioned on the top of the body 110 and can come into contact with the user's mouth. The mouthpiece 120 may be formed to protrude from the body 110 in the +z direction. The mouthpiece 120 is shaped to easily come into contact with the user's mouth. After the user brings their mouth into contact with the mouthpiece 120 formed on the body 110, they can inhale the target substance.

[0038] Cartridge 200 can contain a target substance. The target substance may include one or more of various forms, such as dry powder or fine granules. If the target substance exists in dry powder form, cartridge 200 can store powders of approximately 30 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, or 300 mg, 600 mg, or 1000 mg.

[0039] When the target substance exists in the form of a dry powder, the target substance may consist solely of inhalation powder approximately 1 μm to 5 μm or approximately 0.5 μm to 10 μm in size. Alternatively, the target substance may consist of a mixture of inhalation powder approximately 1 μm to 5 μm or approximately 0.5 μm to 10 μm and a carrier approximately 10 μm to 20 μm or approximately 5 μm to 50 μm in size.

[0040] Powders used as inhalation substances include, for example, nicotine, nicotine tartrate, nicotine lactate, nicotine citrate, and other nicotine salts, as well as other functional substances such as caffeine. The powders may also contain other substances that produce pharmacological effects.

[0041] Powders used as carrier substances include, for example, powders containing lactose, menthol, peppermint, or other powdered essential fragrance oils.

[0042] The substances used as carriers are, for example, alpha-lactose monohydrate, beta-cyclodextrin, maltodextrin, and mannitol, in a form in which the aforementioned excipients are appropriately mixed. It also includes the aforementioned excipients and small amounts of other excipients such as saccharin and xylitol.

[0043] The cartridge 200, with the target substance contained inside, can be detachably attached to the body 110 of the main unit 100. For example, the cartridge 200 can be attached to the main unit 100 by either inserting at least a portion of the cartridge 200 into the main unit 100, or by inserting at least a portion of the main unit 100 into the cartridge 200.

[0044] The main unit 100 and the cartridge 200 can be connected by methods such as snap-fit, screw-in, magnetic coupling, or interlocking. However, the method of connecting the main unit 100 and the cartridge 200 is not limited to those described above.

[0045] Cartridge 200 can be used as a consumable in inhaler 1. If the target substance contained in cartridge 200 is depleted while using inhaler 1, the user can separate cartridge 200 from main unit 100 and attach a new cartridge 200 to main unit 100 for use.

[0046] However, the embodiments are not limited to examples in which the cartridge 200 is used as a consumable item. Depending on the embodiment, the cartridge 200 can be used in a target substance refill system, such as by filling the same cartridge 200 with a new target substance.

[0047] On the other hand, although not shown, one embodiment of the inhaler 1 may further include a cap (not shown) that attaches to the mouthpiece 120. When the inhaler 1 is not in use, the user can attach the cap to the mouthpiece 120.

[0048] The cap prevents the target substance inside the inhaler 1 from flowing out through the mouthpiece 120. The cap also prevents foreign matter from entering the inhaler 1 through the mouthpiece 120.

[0049] The following section provides a detailed description of the internal structure of inhaler 1 and the pathway of the target substance.

[0050] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a cartridge according to one embodiment. Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge of Figure 2A taken along the line A-A'.

[0051] Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, a cartridge 200 according to one embodiment may include a housing 210, a dwelling section 220, a passage section 230, an opening 240, and a groove section 250.

[0052] The housing 210 forms the external appearance of the cartridge 200. In this case, the accommodating portion 220, the passage portion 230, the opening 240, and the groove portion 250 of the cartridge 200 are formed in the housing 210. That is, the aforementioned configuration is included in both the cartridge 200 and the housing 210. The shape of the housing 210 can determine the components of the cartridge 200.

[0053] The containment section 220 is a structure formed in the housing 210 to contain the target material. In this configuration, the containment section 220 fits into a groove formed in a part of the housing 210. The target material can be stored in the containment section 220.

[0054] The containment section 220 may include a first surface 221 extending in a first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction) and a second surface 222 inclined with respect to the first direction. The target material may be located between the first surface 221 and the second surface 222.

[0055] One end of the second surface 222 is connected to a passage section 230, which will be described later, and the other end of the second surface 222 may be connected to an opening 240, which will be described later. Air flowing into the containment section 220 moves along the second surface 222, and can transport the target substance from the passage section 230 towards the opening 240. In this case, since the second surface 222 has an inclined structure, any small amount of target substance remaining inside the containment section 220 can also move along the inclined surface with the air.

[0056] The passage section 230 is configured to fluidly connect the outside of the housing 210 and the containment section 220. In this context, "fluid connection" means that the elements are connected in such a way that a fluid, such as air, can pass through and flow through them. Hereafter, the expression "connection" may include the meaning of fluid connection.

[0057] The passage portion 230 corresponds to a passage formed in a part of the housing 210. The passage portion 230 can act as a passage through which air flows into the inhaler when the user uses the inhaler. In other words, the passage portion 230 is configured to be the first passage through which air passes when air flows into the inhaler or cartridge 200. At this time, the size of the passage portion 230 is sufficiently small in order to provide the user of the inhaler 1 with sufficient suction resistance.

[0058] On the other hand, the target substance stored in the containment section 220 may leak out of the housing 210 or cartridge 200 through the passage section 230. To solve this problem, the passage section 230 may include a shape that is bent one or more times.

[0059] To describe the shape of the passage section 230 in detail below, the passage section 230 may include an air inlet 230i, a first passage 231, a second passage 232, a third passage 233, and an air outlet 230e.

[0060] The air inlet 230i is configured to open outwards from the housing 210 and connect to the outside of the housing 210. The air inlet 230i can serve as the entrance to the passage section 230.

[0061] The air inlet 230i may open toward the bottom of the cartridge 200 (for example, in the z-axis direction). Because the cartridge 200 is coupled to the inhaler body (for example, the body 100 in Figure 1) in the z-axis direction, the air inlet 230i can function as the inlet of the inhaler even without a separate opening in the body.

[0062] However, depending on the embodiment, the direction in which the air inlet 230i is opened may change, and as a result, an opening may be provided in the main body that connects to the air inlet 230i of the cartridge 200. Also, even when the cartridge 200 is connected to the main body in different directions, the air inlet 230i and the opening in the main body connected to it may be positioned appropriately.

[0063] The first passage 231 is a passage extending from the air inlet 230i in a first direction (for example, the z-axis direction). Referring to the drawings, the air inlet 230i is open in a first direction, and the first passage 231 extends in the direction in which the air inlet 230i is open, but the embodiments are not limited to those shown. The direction in which the air inlet 230i is open and the direction in which the first passage 231 extends may differ depending on the embodiment.

[0064] The second passage 232 is connected to the first passage 231 and extends in a second direction (for example, the x-axis direction) that intersects the first direction. In this case, the second passage 232 can connect the first passage 231 and the third passage 233. Referring to the drawings, the second passage 232 is formed to be shorter than the first passage 231 or the third passage 233, but the embodiment is not limited to what is shown. The ratio of the length of the first passage 231 or the third passage 233 to the length of the second passage 232 may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0065] The third passage 233 is connected to the second passage 232 and extends in the first direction. That is, the third passage 233 may extend in the same direction as the first passage 231. However, the embodiment is not limited to the same direction. The direction in which the first passage 231 and the third passage 233 extend may differ depending on the embodiment.

[0066] The air inlet 230e is configured to open toward the housing section 220 and be connected to the housing section 220. The air inlet 230e is connected to the third passage 233 and can function as an outlet for the passage section 230. The air inlet 230e may be formed on the first surface 221 of the housing section 220.

[0067] Referring to the drawings, the air inlet 230e is open in the second direction, and the third passage 233 extends in a direction intersecting the direction in which the air inlet 230e is open; however, the embodiments are not limited to those shown. The opening direction of the air inlet 230i and the extension direction of the first passage 231 may differ depending on the embodiment, and the two directions may be the same.

[0068] To summarize, air can reach the housing section 220 by passing from outside the housing 210 through the air inlet 230i, the first passage 231, the second passage 232, the third passage 233, and the air outlet 230e.

[0069] Since the target material is located between the first surface 221 and the second surface 222 of the containment section 220, the target material can accumulate in the containment section 220 in a first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction). In this case, the containment section 220 and the passage section 230 can be arranged in parallel along a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) which intersects the first surface 221 of the containment section 220. The air inlet 230e connected to the containment section 220 can be opened in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

[0070] According to this, when the cartridge 200 is positioned such that the first direction is the direction of gravity, it is possible to prevent the target substance stored in the containment section 220 from flowing out through the air inlet 230e.

[0071] Furthermore, as shown in the illustration, the portion where the air inlet 230e connects to the third passage 233, the portion where the third passage 233 connects to the second passage 232, and the portion where the second passage 232 connects to the first passage 231 are bent. That is, the opening directions of the air inlet 230e and the third passage 233 are different from each other, the opening directions of the third passage 233 and the second passage 232 are different from each other, and the opening directions of the second passage 232 and the first passage 231 are different from each other.

[0072] According to this, even if the target substance stored in the containment section 220 flows back into the passage section 230, the curved shape of the passage section 230 prevents it from flowing out of the housing 210 along the passage section 230.

[0073] Furthermore, the first passage 231 and the third passage 233 may be arranged in parallel along the second direction. Specifically, when the air flowing into the cartridge 200 moves along the first passage 231, it can move in the +z direction, and when it moves along the third passage 233, it can move in the z direction.

[0074] Conversely, the target substance flowing back from the containment section 220 cannot be discharged to the outside of the housing 210 unless it moves in the +z direction when moving along the third passage 233 and in the -z direction when moving along the first passage 231.

[0075] According to this, in order for the target substance to flow out of the housing 210 or cartridge 200 through the passage 230, it must move in multiple directions, thus preventing the phenomenon of flowing out of the housing 210 along the passage 230.

[0076] On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the section obtained by cutting the first passage 231 in the second direction increases as it moves further away from the air inlet 230i. By adopting such a structure, air can flow into the relatively narrow air inlet 230i, move along the first passage 231, and gradually spread to a wider area.

[0077] If the cartridge 200 is designed to have a consistently wide width from the air inlet 230i to the end of the first passage 231, a large amount of the target substance may be inhaled by the user even if the user only intends to inhale a small amount of the target substance. Furthermore, dry suction may occur due to the low suction resistance and pressure applied to the passage 230. According to this embodiment, such phenomena can be prevented.

[0078] The opening 240 is formed in the housing 210 to allow the target substance contained in the containment section 220 to pass through as it moves along with the air. Specifically, air flowing into the containment section 220 through the passage section 230 can carry the target substance. Along with the target substance, the air can pass through the opening 240 and move to the outside of the housing 210 or cartridge 200. In other words, the opening 240 is the last part of the cartridge 200 that the air passes through. Furthermore, when the target substance is completely consumed, the user can refill the containment section 220 with the target substance through the opening 240.

[0079] Referring to the drawing, one end of the first surface 221 and one end of the second surface 222 are connected to the air inlet 230e of the passage section 230, and the other end of the first surface 221 and the other end of the second surface 222 may be connected to the opening 240.

[0080] Since the second surface 222 is an inclined surface that is tilted relative to the first surface 221, one end of the first surface 221 and one end of the second surface 222 are relatively close, while the other end of the first surface 221 and the other end of the second surface 222 are relatively far apart.

[0081] As shown in the illustration, the opening 240 is located between the other end of the first surface 221 and the other end of the second surface 222. That is, the open area of ​​the opening 240 is relatively large compared to the open area of ​​the air inlet 230e. However, the embodiment is not limited to that shown. In the embodiment, the upper part of the housing 220 is blocked by the housing 210, and a relatively small opening may be provided in the housing 210.

[0082] On the other hand, the opening 240 may be open in a first direction, and the air inlet 230e of the passage 230 may be open in a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction) intersecting the first direction. When the cartridge 200 is mounted on the inhaler body, the opening 240 may face the inhaler body. In this case, the air inlet 230e is open in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the inhaler body, rather than in a direction away from the inhaler body (e.g., the -z direction), so that unwanted target substances can be prevented from flowing out through the air inlet 230e while the user is using the inhaler.

[0083] The groove 250 is formed by recessing one corner of the outside of the housing 210 and one surface of the housing 210 including that corner. Two grooves 250 may be arranged. For example, the groove 250 may include a first groove 251 and a second groove 252 arranged opposite each other. The first groove 251 may be located on one surface of the housing 210, and the second groove 252 may be located on the other surface of the housing 210 opposite to the first surface.

[0084] When cartridge 200 is installed in the inhaler body, if cartridge 200 is fully inserted into the inhaler body, it becomes difficult to separate cartridge 200 from the body. In this case, the presence of grooves 250 on cartridge 200 allows the user to grasp the first groove 251 and the second groove 252 with their hand and separate cartridge 200 from the inhaler body.

[0085] Figure 3A is a perspective view of the inhaler body according to one embodiment. Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the inhaler body of Figure 3A, taken along the line B-B'.

[0086] Referring to Figures 3A and 3B, the inhaler body 100 according to one embodiment may include a body 110, a mouthpiece 120, and a flow path 130.

[0087] At least one of the components of inhaler 1 shown in Figures 3A and 3B is identical or similar to at least one of the components of inhaler 1 shown in Figure 1, and therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0088] The flow path 130 connects the cartridge (for example, cartridge 200 in Figure 1) and the mouthpiece 120. The flow path 130 can be fluidly connected to the opening of cartridge 200 (for example, opening 240 in Figure 2A). The target substance stored in cartridge 200 can flow into the flow path 130 through the opening. The target substance can then move along the flow path 130 and be inhaled by the user.

[0089] The main body 100 may further include a projection 140 for efficient transfer of the target substance. The projection 140 includes a hollow 140H connected to the mouthpiece 120 and is configured to protrude inward from the body 110. While the mouthpiece 120 protrudes outward from a portion of the body 110, the projection 140 may protrude inward from a portion of the body 110. The mouthpiece 120 and the projection 140 may be aligned in a line. The target substance moving along the hollow 140H of the projection 140 may reach the mouthpiece 120 and be inhaled by the user.

[0090] The flow path 130 will be described in detail below. The flow path 130 may include an inlet 131, a chamber 132, a connecting section 133, and a discharge section 134.

[0091] The inlet 131 is configured to open towards the housing space 110i of the body 110 and connect to the cartridge. The inlet 131 can serve as the entrance to the flow path 130.

[0092] The inlet 131 may open toward the lower part of the body 110 (for example, in the z-axis direction). When the cartridge approaches the inhaler body (for example, the body 100 in Figure 1) in the z-axis direction and is coupled to the containment space 110i, the positions of the inlet 131 and the opening of the cartridge may be aligned. This allows air passing through the cartridge 200 to flow into the inlet 131 through the opening.

[0093] As shown in the illustration, the inlet 131 is open in a first direction (for example, the z-axis direction) along with the opening, but the direction in which the inlet 131 is open may differ depending on the embodiment. In this case, the position of the cartridge opening may also differ in correspondence with the position of the inlet 131. The positions of the inlet 131 and the opening may be determined so that air passing through the opening flows into the inlet 131.

[0094] Chamber 132 is an empty space including a cylindrical shape. Chamber 132 is formed inside the body 110, and the walls that make up chamber 132 are part of the body 110. Air that flows into chamber 132 through the inlet 131 can rotate along the cylindrical chamber 132. Chamber 132 may be located below the mouthpiece 120 and connected to the mouthpiece 120. Air that has rotated along chamber 132 can move to the mouthpiece 120.

[0095] When the projection 140 is positioned, the chamber 132 can accommodate the projection 140. As the chamber 132 rotates, the air inside the chamber 132 can move to the bottom of the chamber 132 and flow into the hollow 140H of the projection 140. The air that flows into the hollow 140H can then move to the mouthpiece 120.

[0096] A structure designed so that air rotates and moves downward along the wall of the chamber 132 can be called a cyclone structure. By utilizing a cyclone structure, sufficient vortices are generated within the chamber 132, and if a strong flow velocity is applied to the vortices, it is possible to deaggregate target substances that have gathered and aggregated together.

[0097] Furthermore, relatively large particles or foreign matter are dropped to the bottom of chamber 132, and only relatively small particles can be carried by the air into the hollow 140H. Therefore, it is possible to prevent particles larger than a certain size from entering the user's mouth, thereby improving the sensation of inhaling the target substance.

[0098] The connecting section 133 is a passage connecting the inlet section 131 and the chamber 132. To connect the inlet section 131, which extends in a first direction, with the chamber 132, which is located in the center of the body 110, the connecting section 133 may extend in a second direction (for example, the x-axis direction) intersecting the first direction.

[0099] The connecting portion 133 can extend from the end of the inlet portion 131 in a tangential direction to the cylindrical chamber 132 and be connected to the chamber 132. When air flows into the chamber 132 along the connecting portion 133, it flows in a tangential direction to the cylinder, so the air can rotate smoothly along the wall surface of the chamber 132.

[0100] The discharge section 134 is a passage extending from the chamber 132 to the mouthpiece 120. If a projection 140 is present, the discharge section 134 may extend along the hollow 140H of the projection 140 to the mouthpiece 120. Air that has passed through the cyclone structure may pass through the discharge section 134 along with the target substance and be inhaled by the user.

[0101] In summary, air can pass through the cartridge 200, then through the inlet 131, the connecting section 133, the chamber 132, and the discharge section 134, before reaching the user's mouth.

[0102] On the other hand, the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet section 131 when cut in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the inlet section 131 becomes smaller as it approaches the connecting section 133. Referring to the drawing, one end of the inlet section 131 facing the accommodation space 110i is formed to be wide, while the other end of the inlet section 131 is formed to be narrow.

[0103] The connecting portion 133, which is connected to the other end of the inlet portion 131, can also be extended in a second direction while maintaining a narrow width. The narrower the width of the connecting portion 133, the closer the air can flow into the chamber 132 in the tangential direction of the cylinder. This allows the air to rotate smoothly along the wall surface of the chamber 132.

[0104] On the other hand, although not shown, the inhaler body 100 may include a mesh (not shown) positioned in a region inside the mouthpiece 120. The presence of the mesh can provide the user of the inhaler with resistance to inhalation. Furthermore, the arrangement of the mesh allows the inhalation powder and carrier substance to collide with the mesh and be separated from each other before being inhaled by the user.

[0105] Figure 4 is a side view of an inhaler relating to one embodiment in which the inhaler body and cartridge are combined.

[0106] Referring to Figure 4, the inhaler 1 according to one embodiment may include a main body 100 and a cartridge 200. At least one of the components of the inhaler 1 shown in Figure 4 is the same as or similar to at least one of the components of the inhaler 1 described above, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0107] When a user of inhaler 1 puts the mouthpiece 120 in their mouth and inhales air or a target substance, air may flow into the inside of inhaler 1 through the air inlet 230i of cartridge 200.

[0108] Air can pass sequentially through the first passage 231, second passage 232, and third passage 233 of the passage section 230 and flow into the containment section 220 through the air inlet 230e. The air can transport the target substance stored in the containment section 220. The air, along with the target substance, can move along the inclined surface of the containment section 220 and move to the outside of the cartridge 200 through the opening 240.

[0109] Since the opening 240 is connected to the inlet 131 of the flow path 130, air passing through the opening 240 can flow into the inlet 131 of the main body 100. Air that has flowed into the inside of the body 110 can sequentially pass through the inlet 131, connecting part 133, chamber 132 and discharge part 134 of the flow path 130 and flow into the user's mouth through the mouthpiece 120.

[0110] In this case, the air passing through the chamber 132 can rotate along the wall surface of the chamber 132. The air rotating in the region adjacent to the discharge section 134 can flow into the discharge section 134. If the projection 140 is provided, the air passing through the chamber 132 does not simply cross the chamber 132 and flow into the hollow formed in the projection 140, but can rotate along the wall surface of the chamber 132 and at the same time move to the lower part of the chamber 132 and flow into the hollow of the projection 140.

[0111] The following describes other examples in which a cyclone structure is implemented inside the chamber 132, with reference to Figure 5.

[0112] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing another example of a chamber applied to the inhaler in Figure 4.

[0113] Referring to Figure 5, only a portion of the inhaler body 100 is shown. At least one of the components of the body 100 shown in Figure 5 is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the body 100 described above, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0114] The inhaler body 100 according to other embodiments may further include a guide portion 150. The guide portion 150 is configured to be coupled to the outer surface of the projection 140. The guide portion 150 can guide the movement of air so that the air rotates smoothly inside the chamber 132.

[0115] When air flows into the chamber 132, since the guide section 150 is located in the center of the chamber 132, the air can move through the periphery of the chamber 132. That is, the air can move along the walls of the chamber 132 from a position adjacent to the walls. As a result, the air can move while rotating inside the chamber 132.

[0116] Furthermore, the guide section 150 may include a plurality of wings 151 that guide the movement of air. Referring to the drawings, the plurality of wings 151 may be arranged to wrap around the guide section 150 in a clockwise direction with the mouthpiece 120 or projection 140 as the axis of rotation. In this way, the plurality of wings 151 of the guide section 150 can guide the movement of air so that it rotates clockwise from inside the chamber 132.

[0117] However, since the direction of air rotation is determined by the position of the connecting portion 133 relative to the chamber 132, the direction in which the wing 151 wraps around the guide portion 150 may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0118] On the other hand, in the main body 100 of the inhaler according to other embodiments, the chamber 132 may be divided into two regions. Specifically, the chamber 132 may include a cylindrical first region 132A where the guide portion 150 is located and a second region 132B where the end of the protrusion 140 is located.

[0119] The first region 132A is located above the second region 132B, and the air flowing into the chamber 132 can pass sequentially through the first region 132A and the second region 132B before flowing into the hollow 140H of the protrusion 140. In this case, the first region 132A may include a cylindrical shape, while the second region 132B may include a funnel shape. That is, the second region 132B becomes narrower as it moves further away from the first region 132A.

[0120] With this shape, the air rotates in the second region 132B and moves downward, allowing it to collect in the center of the second region 132B. The air collected in the center moves smoothly into the hollow 140H of the protrusion 140, and particles that fall to the bottom surface of the second region 132B also collect in a relatively narrow space.

[0121] Although not shown, the bottom surface of chamber 132 or the bottom surface of the second region 132B can be opened and closed by user operation. If at least one region of the bottom surface is opened, particles that have fallen onto the bottom surface of chamber 132 can be discharged through the opened region into the containment space (for example, the containment space 110i in Figure 3A).

[0122] When a cartridge is installed in the containment space, particles passing through the open area at the bottom of the chamber 132 can flow into the containment through the opening of the cartridge. With this structure, particles that have flowed into the containment can move back into the chamber 132 upon user inhalation and be inhaled by the user through deaggregation by the cyclone structure, or sink back to the bottom of the chamber 132. By repeating this process, the target substance filled in the cartridge can be inhaled to the maximum extent by the user.

[0123] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to another embodiment to which a door is applied.

[0124] Referring to Figure 6, the cartridge 200 according to other embodiments may further include a door 260 compared to the cartridge 200 in Figure 2B.

[0125] At least one of the components of cartridge 200 shown in Figure 6 is identical or similar to at least one of the components of cartridge 200 described above, and therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0126] Despite the curved shape of the passage 230, the target substance may move along the passage 230 and flow out of the housing 210. Furthermore, external foreign matter may flow into the cartridge 200 through the passage 230. To prevent such phenomena, a door 260 may be provided to block the passage 230 when the user is not using the inhaler.

[0127] The door 260 is configured to slide to open and close the air inlet 230i of the passageway 230. The door 260 can move between the open position and the closed position of the air inlet 230i.

[0128] At least a portion of the door 260 may be housed in a sliding groove 215 formed in the housing 210. The sliding groove 215 may be positioned adjacent to and connected to the air inlet 230i. In this case, the sliding groove 215 may be formed in the housing 210 so as to intersect the first passage 231.

[0129] The door 260 can slide within the sliding groove 215. That is, the sliding groove 215 can guide the sliding motion of the door 260. As a result, the door 260 can slide only in the direction in which the sliding groove 215 extends (for example, in the x-axis direction).

[0130] Referring to the drawing, the door 260 is in a position to close the air inlet 230i. In this position, if the door 260 moves along the sliding groove 215, the air inlet 230i can be opened. The open position of the door 260 is shown by a dotted line in the enlarged view.

[0131] On the other hand, although not shown in the drawings, a fastening structure such as a hook may be provided at one end of the door 260 to prevent it from moving in the closed position. Correspondingly, an insertion hole for the hook may be provided in the sliding groove 215. This allows the door 260 to be fixed in the closed position.

[0132] Furthermore, the door 260 may be provided with a handle (not shown) that protrudes from the outside of the housing 210, allowing the user to move the door 260 which is housed in the sliding groove 215.

[0133] Figures 7A to 7C are cross-sectional views of cartridges according to yet another embodiment.

[0134] Referring to Figures 7A to 7C, various shapes of cartridges 200a, 200b, and 200c are shown, respectively.

[0135] At least one of the components of cartridges 200a, 200b, and 200c shown in Figures 7A to 7C is identical or similar to at least one of the components of cartridge 200 shown in Figure 2B, and redundant explanations will be omitted below. Furthermore, when explaining Figures 7A to 7C, refer to the reference numerals in Figure 4.

[0136] Referring to Figure 7A, the cartridge 200a shown in Figure 7A may further include an upper wall 210u compared to the cartridge 200 in Figure 2B. In this case, the upper wall 210u is a component included in the housing 210 or a part of the housing 210.

[0137] The opening 240a may be located in one area of ​​the upper wall 210u. Compared to the cartridge 200 in Figure 2B, the opening 240a may be formed to be relatively small. For example, the opening 240a may have a size corresponding to the inlet of the inlet 131 located in the main body 100.

[0138] Referring to Figure 7B, in the cartridge 200b shown in Figure 7B, the opening 240b is located on the side wall 210s rather than the upper wall 210u, compared to the cartridge 200a in Figure 7A. In this case, the side wall 210s is a component included in the housing 210 or a part of the housing 210.

[0139] In other words, the opening 240b may be positioned opposite the first surface 221 of the housing 220. Corresponding to the position of the opening 240b, an inlet for the inlet 131 may also be formed in the main body 100 of the inhaler at a position corresponding to the opening 240b.

[0140] Referring to Figure 7C, in the cartridge 200c shown in Figure 7C, the passage section 230c is located at the bottom of the housing section 220, rather than on the side, compared to the cartridge 200a in Figure 7A.

[0141] As a result, the direction in which each part of the passage section 230c is opened or extended may also differ. For example, the air inlet 230ic and the air outlet 230ec may be open in a first direction (e.g., the z-axis direction), the first passage 231c and the third passage 233c may be extended in a second direction (e.g., the x-axis direction), and the second passage 232c connecting the two passages may be extended in the first direction.

[0142] On the other hand, while the first direction, which is the extension direction of the first surface 221 of the housing section 220, has been described as the insertion direction of the cartridge 200 into the main body 100, in some embodiments, the insertion direction of the cartridge 200 may be a second direction intersecting the first direction. In this case, the main body 100 is open toward the lower part of the body 110, and the concept that the cartridge 200 is connected through the open lower part of the body 110 remains the same.

[0143] Taking the cartridge 200a shown in Figure 7A as an example, if the cartridge 200 is connected through the open lower part of the main body 100 with the second direction being the insertion direction of the cartridge 200, the passage portion 230 may be located at the upper part of the housing portion 220, and the opening 240a may be located at the lower side end of the housing portion 220. Corresponding to the positions of the passage portion 230 and the opening 240a, the main body 100 may also be provided with a hole for air to flow in and an inlet portion 131 of the flow path 130.

[0144] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a cartridge relating to yet another embodiment to which a blocking section is applied.

[0145] Referring to Figure 8, cartridges 200 in other embodiments may further include a blocking section 270 and a rail section 280 compared to cartridge 200 in Figure 2A. In describing Figure 8 below, reference numerals from Figure 4 will be used.

[0146] The blocking portion 270 is configured to cover the opening 240. By blocking at least a portion of the opening 240, the housing portion 220 can be isolated from the outside of the housing 210.

[0147] The blocking section 270 can be detachably coupled to the housing 210. For this purpose, the rail section 280 can be positioned on top of the housing 210. The rail section 280 can be configured to include the housing 210, or to be configured independently of the housing 210.

[0148] The rail sections 280 are arranged in pairs and may include an inverted "L" shape. The blocking section 270 may slide and be inserted between the pair of rail sections 280. In this manner, the blocking section 270 may be coupled to and separated from the rail sections 280.

[0149] However, the method by which the blocking section 270 is coupled to the housing 210 is not limited to the method utilizing the rail section 280. Depending on the embodiment, the blocking section 270 can be detachably coupled to the housing 210 in a variety of ways.

[0150] Instead of the shut-off section 270 blocking the opening 240, the shut-off section 270 may include an air outlet 270h that fluidly connects the outside of the housing 210 to the containment section 220. The air outlet 270h may be connected to the inlet 131 of the main body 100. In other words, the air outlet 270h formed in the shut-off section 270 is the outlet of the cartridge 200 through which air passes while carrying the target substance.

[0151] Figures 9A and 9B are cross-sectional views of an inhaler according to yet another embodiment, which is fitted with a cartridge that can be used upside down.

[0152] Referring to Figures 9A and 9B, inhaler 1 according to other embodiments may include a main body 100 and a cartridge 300. At least one of the components of inhaler 1 shown in Figures 9A and 9B is identical or similar to at least one of the components of inhaler 1 shown in Figure 4, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0153] The cartridge 300 shown in Figures 9A and 9B can be used upside down, unlike the cartridge 200 shown in Figure 2B. That is, the cartridge 300 may be mounted on the main body 100 in the direction shown in Figure 9A, or in the direction shown in Figure 9B.

[0154] To give a more specific explanation of the cartridge 300, which can be used even when upside down, the cartridge 300 may have two housing sections 320, two passage sections 330, and two openings 340 in a single housing 310.

[0155] The storage section 320 may include a first storage section 320A and a second storage section 320B. The passage section 330 may include a first passage section 330A and a second passage section 330B. The opening 340 may include a first opening 340A and a second opening 340B.

[0156] As described above, the first passage section 330A, the first housing section 320A, and the first opening 340A may be fluid-connected, and the second passage section 330B, the second housing section 320B, and the second opening 340B may be fluid-connected.

[0157] The cartridge 300 may include a partition wall 325 that separates a first storage section 320A and a second storage section 320B. The partition wall 325 may be positioned between the first storage section 320A and the second storage section 320B. A target substance may be stored in each of the first storage section 320A and the second storage section 320B separated by the partition wall 325.

[0158] The partition wall 325 can provide inclined surfaces to the first storage section 320A and the second storage section 320B. For example, the second surface 322A of the first storage section 320A is in contact with one surface of the partition wall 325, and the second surface 322B of the second storage section 320B is in contact with the other surface of the partition wall 325 that is opposite to the one surface of the partition wall 325.

[0159] This structure allows for maximizing the capacity of the cartridge 300 that stores the target substance, while maintaining the concept of having an inclined surface in the storage section 320. Furthermore, since the two storage sections 320 are separated by a partition wall 325, different types of target substances can be stored in each storage section 320. In this case, the user can always invert the cartridge 300 and attach it to the main unit 100 to inhale the desired type of target substance.

[0160] On the other hand, as mentioned above, since the passage section 330 has a shape that is bent at least once, no matter what direction the cartridge 300 is installed in, the target substance stored in the storage section 320 is unlikely to leak out through the two passage sections 330.

[0161] However, since the two openings 340 are open to the upper and lower parts of the housing 310, a problem may arise in which the target substance may leak out through the openings 340. For example, as shown in Figure 9A, when the first opening 340A is located at the top of the housing 310 and connected to the flow path 130 of the main body 100, the second opening 340B is located at the bottom of the housing 310, so the target substance stored in the second containment section 320B may leak out through the second opening 340B.

[0162] The following describes the configurations that are arranged to solve the problem of the target substance leaking out through the opening 340.

[0163] Figure 10A is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment in which a door is applied to the cartridge of Figure 9A. Figure 10B is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to yet another embodiment in which the cartridge shutoff section of Figure 9A is applied.

[0164] The cartridges 300 shown in Figures 10A and 10B represent separate embodiments for solving the problem of leakage through the opening 340.

[0165] At least one of the components of cartridge 300 shown in Figures 10A and 10B is identical or similar to at least one of the components of cartridge 300 shown in Figures 9A and 9B, and redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0166] Referring to Figure 10A, the cartridge 300 shown in Figure 10A may further include doors 360A and 360B compared to the cartridge 300 shown in Figure 9A.

[0167] Doors 360A and 360B are configured to slide to open and close the passage 330 or the opening 340. At least a portion of doors 360A and 360B can be housed in sliding grooves 315A and 315B formed in the housing 310. Since doors 360A and 360B and sliding grooves 315A and 315B are similar to door 260 and sliding groove 215 shown in Figure 6, any overlapping explanations will be omitted.

[0168] There may be two doors 360A and 360B. Specifically, doors 360A and 360B may include a first door 360A that opens and closes the first passage 330A or the second opening 340B, and a second door 360B that opens and closes the second passage 330B or the first opening 340A. The first door 360A and the second door 360B can move independently.

[0169] Corresponding to the two doors 360A and 360B, two sliding grooves 315A and 315B may also be formed in the housing 310. That is, the sliding grooves 315A and 315B may include a first sliding groove 315A that accommodates the first door 360A and a second sliding groove 315B that accommodates the second door 360B.

[0170] Referring to the drawing, the cartridge 300 is positioned so that the target substance stored in the first containment section 320A is drawn in. As a result, the target substance stored in the first containment section 320A can move to the main body through the first opening 340A, and the target substance stored in the second containment section 320B can flow out of the inhaler through the second opening 340B.

[0171] To prevent the target substance from leaking out through the second opening 340B, the second opening 340B must be closed. To this end, the first door 360A can move along the first sliding groove 315A to close the second opening 340B. At the same time, the first door 360A can open the first passage 330A so that the user can use the inhaler.

[0172] Since the first opening 340A must be opened for the inhalation of the target substance, the second door 360B can move along the second sliding groove 315B to open the first opening 340A. At the same time, the second door 360B can close the second passage 330B to prevent the target substance stored in the second containment section 320B from flowing out through the second passage 330B and to prevent foreign matter from entering through the second passage 330B. However, since the air inlet of the second passage 330B is positioned opposite the inhaler body, it is blocked by the body and not exposed to the outside of the inhaler. Therefore, in this case, closing the second passage 330B may be of slightly less importance.

[0173] As shown in the illustration, if doors 360A and 360B close the opening 340, the passageway 330 is opened, and if doors 360A and 360B close the passageway 330, the opening 340 may be opened. However, the embodiment is not limited to this opening and closing method.

[0174] As another example, doors 360A and 360B may open and close the opening 340 and the passageway 330 simultaneously. In yet another example, doors 360A and 360B may be positioned in the opening 340 and the passageway 330 respectively, and each door 360A and 360B may open and close the opening 340 and the passageway 330 independently.

[0175] Referring to Figure 10B, the cartridge 300 shown in Figure 10B may further include the blocking sections 370A and 370B compared to the cartridge 300 shown in Figure 9A.

[0176] The shut-off sections 370A and 370B are configured to be detachably connected to a portion of the housing 310 in order to open and close the passage section 330 or the opening 340. The shut-off sections 370A and 370B can be connected to the housing 310 using rail sections (not shown) located on the housing 310. Since the shut-off sections 370A and 370B and the rail sections are similar to the shut-off section 270 and rail sections shown in Figure 8, the explanation of any overlapping content will be omitted.

[0177] There may be two blocking sections 370A and 370B. Specifically, the blocking sections 370A and 370B may include a first blocking section 370A that opens and closes the first passage section 330A or the second opening 340B, and a second blocking section 370B that opens and closes the second passage section 330B or the first opening 340A. Corresponding to the two blocking sections 370A and 370B, there may also be two rail sections.

[0178] The shut-off sections 370A and 370B can be coupled to the housing 310 either symmetrically (for example, rotated 180° around the z-axis) as shown in the illustration, or rotated 180° around the y-axis and upside down. This allows the user to couple the shut-off sections 370A and 370B to the housing 310 without distinguishing between left / right or top / bottom orientations.

[0179] The shut-off sections 370A and 370B may include inlet openings 371A and 371B connected to the passage section 330, and outlet openings 372A and 372B connected to the opening 340. However, when the shut-off sections 370A and 370B are coupled to the housing 310, the inlet openings 371A and 371B and the outlet openings 372A and 372B cannot be simultaneously connected to the passage section 330 and the opening 340, respectively.

[0180] For example, when the inlet openings 371A and 371B of the two shut-off sections 370A and 370B are connected to the passage section 330, the discharge openings 372A and 372B cannot be connected to the opening 340. In this state, if the user rotates the shut-off sections 370A and 370B 180° around the y-axis and inverts them to connect them to the housing 310, the discharge openings 372A and 372B will be connected to the opening 340, but the inlet openings 371A and 371B cannot be connected to the passage section 330.

[0181] As a result, if the user wishes to close the second opening 340B located at the bottom of the housing 310, the first shut-off section 370A can be connected to the housing 310 as shown in the figure. In this case, the first shut-off section 370A can close the second opening 340B. At the same time, the first passage section 330A can be opened by connecting to the first inlet opening 371A so that the user can use the inhaler. In this case, the first discharge opening 372A can be located independently of the position of the second opening 340B.

[0182] Since the first opening 340A located at the top of the housing 310 must be open, the user can connect the second shutoff section 370B to the housing 310 as shown in the figure.

[0183] In this case, the first opening 340A can be opened by connecting it to the second discharge opening 372B. Simultaneously, the second passage section 330B can be closed by the second blocking section 370B. In this case, the second inlet opening 372B can be located independently of the position of the second passage section 330B.

[0184] The following describes one example of how the cartridge and the main unit are connected.

[0185] Figures 11A and 11B are perspective views showing the body of an inhaler and a cartridge separated therefrom, respectively, in an embodiment to which a fastening structure is applied.

[0186] Referring to Figures 11A and 11B, inhaler 1 according to further embodiments may include a main body 100 and cartridges 400A and 400B.

[0187] Referring to Figure 11A, as mentioned above, an embodiment is shown in which the cartridge 400A approaches the lower part of the main body 100 and is inserted into the main body 100 in the longitudinal direction of the main body 100 (for example, in the z-axis direction).

[0188] Referring to Figure 11B, an embodiment is shown in which the cartridge 400B approaches the side of the main body 100 and is inserted into the main body 100 in a direction intersecting the longitudinal direction of the main body 100 (for example, in the x-axis direction).

[0189] The main body 100 of the inhaler 1 shown in Figures 11A and 11B may commonly include operating units 190A and 190B. The operating units 190A and 190B are used to detachably connect cartridges 400A and 400B to the main body 100. In this case, only the buttons among the lower components of the operating units 190A and 190B may be exposed on the outside of the main body 100.

[0190] Cartridges 400A and 400B can be coupled by interlocking with a portion of the operating section 190A and 190B. For this purpose, a fastening groove is formed in one area of ​​the housing 410 of cartridges 400A and 400B, and the stepped sections 490A and 490B can be positioned in the area where the fastening groove is formed.

[0191] The stepped portions 490A and 490B may protrude into the fastening groove in a direction intersecting the direction in which the groove is cut in the housing 410. In this case, the stepped portions 490A and 490B are both components included in the housing 410 and subordinate components of cartridges 400A and 400B, which are handled separately from the housing 410.

[0192] Referring to Figure 11A, a fastening groove and a stepped portion 490A are positioned on the upper part of the cartridge 400A, which approaches the lower part of the main body 100. In this case, taking into consideration the arrangement of the opening 440, the fastening groove and the stepped portion 490A may be positioned on both sides of the opening 440.

[0193] Referring to Figure 11B, a fastening groove and a stepped portion 490B are arranged on the side surface of the cartridge 400B, which approaches the side surface of the main body 100. As shown in the figure, the fastening groove is formed to intersect one surface of the side surface of the cartridge 400B, but the embodiment is not necessarily limited to this.

[0194] In the following, the fastening structure between the main body 100 and the cartridge 400B will be described in detail, based on the embodiment shown in Figure 11B.

[0195] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the inhaler body and cartridge shown in Figure 11B, viewed from a different angle, in order to explain the internal structure of the inhaler body.

[0196] Referring to Figure 12, inhaler 1 according to yet another embodiment may include a main body 100 and a cartridge 400.

[0197] At least one of the components of the inhaler 1 shown in Figure 12 is identical or similar to at least one of the components of the inhaler 1 shown in Figure 11B, and therefore, redundant explanations will be omitted below.

[0198] Referring to Figure 12, the cartridge 400 can be inserted into the body 100 through its side. In this case, Figure 12 shows the interior of the housing space 110i of the body 110.

[0199] As shown in the illustration, at least a portion of the operating section 190 is obscured by the shielding plate 115, which is not shown. In this case, the shielding plate 115 may be a component of the body 110, or it may be a subordinate component of the main body 100, which is handled separately from the body 110.

[0200] To describe only the configuration of the operating section 190 shown in Figure 12, the operating section 190 may include a button 1911 and a fastening member 1921.

[0201] The button 1911 is positioned such that at least a portion of it is exposed to the outside of the body 110, and can release the fastening relationship between the main body 100 and the cartridge 400 upon user input. For example, if user input is applied to the button 1911, the cartridge 400 can be attached to or detached from the main body 100.

[0202] The fastening member 1921 is configured to be placed in the fastening groove 410g while engaging with the stepped portion 490 of the cartridge 400. As the fastening member 1921 moves up and down, the cartridge 400 is fastened to the main body 100 or becomes detachable from the main body 100.

[0203] Figure 13A is an exploded front view showing the inhaler body shown in Figure 12 in the first operating state. Figure 13B is an exploded front view showing the inhaler body shown in Figure 12 in the second operating state.

[0204] In this context, the "first operating state" refers to a state in which no input is applied to button 1911, and therefore the main unit 100 remains in a state where a cartridge (for example, cartridge 400 in Figure 12) is installed. The "second operating state" refers to a state in which user input is applied to button 1911, and therefore the main unit 100 is allowed to attach or detach the cartridge. This expression can be used with the same meaning below.

[0205] Referring to Figures 13A and 13B, the main body 100 of the inhaler 1 in yet another embodiment may include a body 110 and an operating section 190. In this case, the operating section 190 may include a first movable member 191, a second movable member 192, and an elastic member 193.

[0206] The first movable member 191 is configured to slide horizontally when operated by the user. The first movable member 191 may include a button 1911 and a first guide hole 1912.

[0207] The button 1911 is positioned such that at least a portion of it is exposed to the outside of the body 110 and may be located at one end of the first movable member 191. When the user presses the button 1911 and the button 1911 moves, the first movable member 191 can also move with it.

[0208] The first guide hole 1912 is formed in one region of the first movable member 191 and extends in the horizontal direction, which is the direction of movement of the first movable member 191. The first guide projection P1 can be inserted into the first guide hole 1912. The first guide projection P1 is located inside the body 110 and is fixed in one position.

[0209] A first guide projection P1 is inserted into a first guide hole 1912 that extends horizontally, and the first movable member 191 can move only in the horizontal direction. In addition, the horizontal movement of the first movable member 191 may be restricted by the first guide projection P1 contacting a portion of the first movable member 191 at both ends of the first guide hole 1912.

[0210] The second movable member 192 is configured to mesh with the first movable member 191 and to slide vertically due to the sliding of the first movable member 191. The second movable member 192 may include a fastening member 1921 and a second guide hole 1922.

[0211] The fastening member 1921 is positioned to be exposed to the housing space (for example, the housing space 110i in Figure 12), as shown in Figure 12, and can move together with the second movable member 192.

[0212] The second guide hole 1922 is formed in one region of the second movable member 192 and extends in the vertical direction, which is the direction of movement of the second movable member 192. The second guide projection P2 can be inserted into the second guide hole 1922. The second guide projection P2 is located inside the body 110 and is fixed in one position.

[0213] The second guide projection P2 is inserted into the second guide hole 1922 which extends vertically, and the second movable member 192 can move only in the vertical direction. In addition, the vertical movement of the second movable member 192 may be restricted by the second guide projection P2 contacting a portion of the second movable member 192 at both ends of the second guide hole 1922.

[0214] A portion of the surface where the first movable member 191 and the second movable member 192 come into contact is an inclined surface. Therefore, the second movable member 192 can move vertically due to the force exerted by the first movable member 191 through the inclined surface. Conversely, the first movable member 191 can also move horizontally due to the force exerted by the second movable member 192 through the inclined surface.

[0215] The elastic member 193 is configured to elastically pressurize the second movable member 192 in a direction toward the first movable member 191 (for example, vertically upward). If the second movable member 192 moves vertically downward due to the pressurization of the first movable member 191, the elastic member 193 may be compressed.

[0216] The compressed elastic member 193 applies an elastic force to the second movable member 192, restoring the second movable member 192 to its position when no pressure is applied. As a result, the first movable member 191 can also be moved to its position when no pressure is applied.

[0217] The following section will describe in detail the movement of the first movable member 191 and the second movable member 192 based on user input to button 1911.

[0218] Referring to Figure 13A, the main body 100 in the first operating state is shown. With no pressure applied, the first movable member 191 is positioned so that the button 1911 is exposed to the outside of the body 110. At this time, the first movable member 191 is moved to its maximum extent to the left. The second movable member 192 is also moved to its maximum extent upward. As a result, the fastening member 1921 is also moved to its maximum extent upward.

[0219] Referring to Figure 13B, the main body 100 in the second operating state is shown. When the user presses the button 1911, the first movable member 191 can move horizontally inward from the main body 100. As a result, the second movable member 192 moves vertically downward from the main body 100, and the elastic member 193 in contact with the lower part of the second movable member 192 can be compressed. At this time, the first movable member 191 is moved to its maximum extent to the right. The second movable member 192 is also moved to its maximum extent downward. As a result, the fastening member 1921 is also moved to its maximum extent downward.

[0220] When the user presses the button 1911 and the fastening member 1921 moves downward, the cartridge 400 can be separated from the main body 100. After separating the cartridge 400, if the pressure on the button 1911 is released, the internal components of the main body 100 can be restored to the first operating state by the elastic force of the elastic member 193.

[0221] Figure 14A is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing how the fastening groove of the cartridge is connected to the inhaler body through fastening with the fastening member in the first operating state. Figure 14B is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing how the fastening groove of the cartridge is connected to the inhaler body through fastening with the fastening member in the second operating state.

[0222] In the following explanation of Figures 14A and 14B, refer to the reference numerals in Figure 12.

[0223] Referring to Figures 14A and 14B, the fastening member 1921 may include a stopper 1921_st that protrudes upward. The fastening groove 410g may be formed by being retracted upward to accommodate the stopper 1921_st.

[0224] When the stopper 1921_st is in the first operating state, it is housed in the fastening groove 410g and can restrict the movement of the cartridge 400 in the x-axis direction. When the stopper 1921_st is in the second operating state, it moves downward and separates from the fastening groove 410g, allowing the cartridge 400 to move in the x-axis direction.

[0225] Specifically, the stopper 1921_st may include an inclined portion 1921_ip. In order to attach the cartridge 400 to the main body 100 when the user is not inputting to the button 1911 (for example, in the first operating state), if the cartridge 400 is pushed toward the main body 100 from a height where the fastening groove 410g and the stopper 1921_st are at corresponding heights to each other, the outer corner of the stepped portion 490 of the cartridge 400 can be brought into contact with the inclined portion 1921_ip of the stopper 1921_st, as shown in Figure 9A.

[0226] In this state, if the cartridge 400 is pushed further towards the main body 100, the outer corner of the stepped portion 490 slides against the inclined portion 1921_ip, thereby moving the stopper 1921_st downwards. At this time, the stopper 1921_st can move downwards until its upper end surface contacts the lower end surface of the stepped portion 490.

[0227] When the cartridge 400 is continuously pushed toward the main body 100 while the upper end surface of the stopper 1921_st is in contact with the lower end surface of the stepped portion 490, the stopper 1921_st can reach the fastening groove 410g.

[0228] In this state, the upper end surface of the stopper 1921_st no longer contacts the lower end surface of the stepped portion 490, and the stopper 1921_st can move upward from the fastening groove 410g and be fitted into the fastening groove 410g. At this time, the position of the stopper 1921_st is the same as the position of the stopper 1921_st before it moved downward.

[0229] Through the process described above, the fastening member 1921 can be accommodated in the fastening groove 410g, and the cartridge 400 can be mounted on the main body 100.

[0230] According to the structure described above, the user can insert the cartridge 400 into the main unit 100 without having to input anything to button 1911.

[0231] Of course, as shown in Figure 9B, when user input is applied to button 1911 (for example, the second operating state), the cartridge 400 can be easily attached to the main body 100 without contact between the inclined portion 1921_ip of the stopper 1921_st and the cartridge 400.

[0232] However, in order to separate the cartridge 400 from the main unit 100, the user must press button 1911 to move the stopper 1921_st downwards.

[0233] To summarize, attaching cartridge 400 to main unit 100 is possible in both the first and second operating states, but it is even easier in the second operating state. Separating cartridge 400 from main unit 100 is only possible in the second operating state.

[0234] In other words, in order to maintain the state in which the cartridge 400 is attached to the main body 100, the inhaler must maintain a first operating state in which the movement of the cartridge 400 in the x-axis direction is restricted.

[0235] According to the embodiment of the cartridge and inhaler containing the same, an inclined surface is arranged in the storage section where the target substance is stored, making it easy to transport the target substance by air, and thus the target substance can be effectively supplied to the user.

[0236] Furthermore, according to the embodiment of the cartridge and inhaler containing the same, the complex shape of the passage (for example, a shape that is bent once or more) can prevent the leakage of the target substance through parts other than the mouthpiece.

[0237] Furthermore, according to the embodiment, the cartridge and inhaler containing the same utilize a cyclone structure to prevent particles larger than a certain size from entering the user's body, thereby improving the sensation of inhaling the target substance.

[0238] The embodiments of the present invention described above are not mutually exclusive or distinct from each other. The respective configurations or functions of the embodiments of the present invention described above may be used in combination or in combination with each other.

[0239] For example, it means that configuration A described in a particular embodiment and / or drawing can be combined with configuration B described in another embodiment and / or drawing. In other words, even if the combination of configurations is not directly described, it means that combination is possible unless it is stated that such combination is impossible.

[0240] The detailed description set forth herein should not be interpreted restrictively in any way, but should be considered illustrative. The scope of the invention shall be determined by a reasonable interpretation of the appended claims, and all modifications within the equivalent scope of the invention shall be included within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. In inhaler cartridges, A housing that forms the external appearance of the cartridge, A housing portion formed in the housing for containing the target material, A passage portion formed in the housing to fluidly connect the outside of the housing and the housing portion, The housing includes an opening formed in the housing so that the target substance contained in the housing can pass through, The housing portion includes a first surface extending in a first direction and a second surface inclined with respect to the first direction. One end of the second surface is connected to the passage section, The other end of the second surface is a cartridge connected to the opening.

2. The passage includes an air inlet connected to the outside of the housing and an air outlet connected to the housing, The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the opening is open in the first direction, and the air inlet is open in a second direction intersecting the first direction.

3. The aforementioned passage section is An air inlet that is open to the outside of the housing, A first passage extending in the first direction from the air inlet, A second passage is connected to the first passage and extends in a second direction intersecting the first direction, A third passage is connected to the second passage and extends in the first direction, The cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: an air inlet connected to the third passage and open toward the housing.

4. The cartridge according to claim 3, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the cross-section obtained by cutting the first passage in the second direction increases as it moves further away from the air inlet.

5. The housing section and the passage section are arranged in parallel along the second direction, which is a direction intersecting the first direction. The cartridge according to claim 3, wherein the first passage and the third passage of the passage portion are arranged in parallel along the second direction.

6. The housing is detachably connected to the blocking portion which blocks at least a portion of the opening, The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the blocking portion includes an air outlet that fluidly connects the outside of the housing to the housing portion.

7. The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the opening is positioned opposite the first surface.

8. The aforementioned housing section includes a first housing section and a second housing section, The aforementioned passage section includes a first passage section and a second passage section, The aforementioned opening includes a first opening and a second opening, The first passage, the first housing, and the first opening are fluidly connected, The second passage, the second housing, and the second opening are fluid-connected, It further includes a partition wall separating the first storage section and the second storage section, The second surface of the first housing is one surface of the partition wall, The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the second surface of the second housing is the other surface of the partition wall that faces in the opposite direction to one surface of the partition wall.

9. The cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a door for opening and closing the aforementioned passage.

10. The housing further includes a groove formed by recessing one corner of the housing and one surface of the housing including the corner, The cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the groove portion includes a first groove portion disposed on one surface of the housing and a second groove portion disposed on the other surface of the housing opposite to the first surface.

11. A cartridge comprising a housing, a containment section formed in the housing for containing a target substance, a passage section formed in the housing for fluid connection between the outside of the housing and the containment section, and an opening formed in the housing for the passage of the target substance contained in the containment section, The system includes a body containing a storage space for housing the cartridge, a mouthpiece protruding from the outside of the body and in contact with the user's mouth, and a main body to which the cartridge is detachably connected, including a flow path connecting the opening of the cartridge and the mouthpiece. The housing portion includes a first surface extending in a first direction and a second surface inclined with respect to the first direction. One end of the second surface is connected to the passage section, The other end of the second surface is connected to the opening, and is an inhaler.

12. The aforementioned flow path is The body has an inlet that is open toward the housing space, A chamber, including a cylindrical shape, is located below the mouthpiece. A connecting portion extending tangentially from the end of the inlet portion and connected to the chamber, The inhaler according to claim 11, further comprising a discharge section extending from the chamber to the mouthpiece.

13. The inhaler according to claim 12, wherein the cross-sectional area of ​​the inlet portion cut in a direction intersecting the extension direction of the inlet portion becomes smaller as it approaches the connecting portion.

14. The body includes a hollow connected to the mouthpiece, and further includes a protrusion that extends inward from the body, The chamber accommodates the protruding portion, The inhaler according to claim 12, wherein the discharge portion extends along the hollow of the protruding portion to the mouthpiece.

15. The system further includes a guide section comprising a plurality of wings coupled to the outer surface of the protrusion, which guide the movement of air so that the air rotates inside the chamber. The chamber includes the cylindrical first region where the guide portion is located and the second region where the end of the protrusion is located. The inhaler according to claim 14, wherein the second region becomes narrower as it moves further away from the first region.

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