Nebulizer and Cartridge

Abstract

To provide a nebulizer for nebulizing a fluid from a cartridge, and a cartridge for the nebulizer.SOLUTION: A cartridge comprises a container containing the fluid to be nebulized and is fluidically connected to a nebulizer by inserting a connecting element of the nebulizer for conveying the fluid out of the container. The cartridge can further comprise an at least partially flexible and / or bendable tube for conveying the fluid out of the container. The tube is wettable with the fluid and / or comprises an at least partially hydrophilic and / or polar surface. Further, the tube can at least partially be shaped as a helix. When the cartridge is connected to the nebulizer, the tube and the connecting element form a continuous capillary and / or an at least essentially constant flow area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a cartridge for a nebulizer according to the preamble of claim 1 or 30 and to a nebulizer according to the preamble of claim 54. [Background technology]

[0002] WO 2009 / 047173 A2 discloses a nebulizer for nebulizing a fluid. The nebulizer includes an insertable cartridge containing the fluid, a housing for receiving the cartridge, and a pressure generator having a drive spring for pressurizing a dose of the fluid to be nebulized. The nebulizer further includes a delivery tube that can be inserted into the cartridge and draws a dose of the fluid from the cartridge when the drive spring is tensioned.

[0003] WO 2009 / 103510 A1 discloses a nebulizer that includes a pre-inserted cartridge containing the fluid to be nebulized. The cartridge includes a flexible delivery tube for delivering the fluid from the cartridge.

[0004] WO 2010 / 094305 A1 discloses a nebulizer for dispensing a liquid, the nebulizer comprising a cartridge having a storage containing the liquid and pressurized gas that forces the liquid from the storage through a valve to dispense the liquid.

[0005] WO 2012 / 130757 A1 relates to a handheld device, in particular an atomizer, for releasing a liquid pharmaceutical formulation from a container with a container cap. The pharmaceutical formulation can be based on, for example, an alcohol solvent. The atomizer with the inserted container includes a sealing system composed of two seals at the connection point between the device and the container, which prevents liquid loss at this point, diffusion leakage, and gas exchange with the surroundings.

[0006] Depending on the spatial orientation of these nebulizer / cartridges, fluid withdrawal may be affected, in particular not enough fluid may be withdrawn from the cartridge, and / or gas or air may be aspirated, and / or the entire volume may not be used such that a residual amount of fluid remains in the cartridge after the final delivery of the dose.

[0007] WO 98 / 46522 A1 discloses a cartridge with a fluid and a sponge-like storage medium. A rigid or flexible tube for withdrawing the fluid terminates in the storage medium, which is either rigidly attached to the wall of the cartridge or can swing freely with the withdrawal tube. The storage medium maintains a certain amount of fluid at all times, even when the end of the tube is located above the fluid level in the cartridge. In that way, the fluid can be withdrawn from the cartridge essentially independent of its spatial orientation. Nevertheless, a certain residual amount of fluid that cannot be withdrawn will remain in the cartridge or storage medium.

[0008] US 5,527,577 A discloses a liquid dispenser having a flexible discharge tube for dispensing a liquid product from a container, the tube comprising a combination of flexible material with a dense fill material that imparts a specific gravity greater than that of the liquid product to enable the inlet opening of the discharge tube to remain below the level of the liquid product when the container is tilted from a vertical orientation. In an alternative embodiment, the discharge tube comprises a layer having an absorbent material capable of absorbing small portions of the liquid product to reduce or eliminate surface tension between the discharge tube and the liquid product, reducing the tendency of the discharge tube to float on the liquid.

[0009] DE 103 47 466 A1 and FR 2 700 483 A1 disclose a liquid dispenser with a dispensing mechanism that includes a flexible discharge tube having a weight or ballast at its free end. When the liquid dispenser is held upside down, the weight or ballast exerts a force on the tube due to gravity, causing the tube to bend so that the free end remains submerged in the liquid. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] In view of the above, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved nebulizer including a cartridge and / or an improved cartridge for a nebulizer, preferably in which withdrawal / aspiration of fluid contained in the cartridge is facilitated and / or can be performed at least essentially independent of the spatial orientation of the nebulizer / cartridge, and / or the amount of fluid that can be withdrawn from the cartridge is increased and / or flow losses are reduced. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The above mentioned object is achieved by a cartridge according to claim 1 or 30 or by a nebulizer according to claim 54. Preferred embodiments are according to the dependent claims.

[0012] The present invention relates to a nebulizer / dispensing device for nebulizing / dispensing a fluid, preferably a liquid, in particular a liquid pharmaceutical composition / formulation and / or liquid medicament from a fluid-containing, preferably replaceable cartridge, and further to a cartridge for such a nebulizer / dispensing device.

[0013] The fluid is preferably polar and / or contains an electric dipole moment.

[0014] Most preferably, the fluid is aqueous and / or comprises an aqueous solution and / or water as a solvent.

[0015] Alternatively, the fluid comprises an alcohol solution and / or alcohol, in particular ethanol, as a solvent.

[0016] The cartridge preferably includes a container and / or bag containing the fluid to be atomized / dispensed, particularly multiple doses of the fluid.

[0017] Preferably the cartridge comprises a tube for transporting / drawing fluid from the container, in particular a dip / transport tube, particularly preferably a capillary tube, preferably the tube is at least partly flexible or bendable.

[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, the tube, in particular its inner and / or outer surface, is preferably wettable by the fluid such that upon contact with the fluid, the tube, in particular at least its free end, is automatically wetted by a film of fluid, and / or automatically takes up the fluid, and / or becomes heavy with the fluid and sinks, and / or automatically aligns / bends towards the fluid in the container, and / or is at least partially immersed in the fluid.

[0019] Preferably, the tube is wettable, in particular configured as a capillary tube with an internal diameter preferably less than 1 mm or less than 0.8 mm, in particular less than 0.7 mm or less than 0.5 mm, such that, preferably in the delivery state of the cartridge and / or when the cartridge is opened, the fluid level inside the tube is equal to or above the fluid level outside the tube and / or when the tube comes into contact with a fluid, the outer surface of the tube, in particular at least its free end, is wetted and further the tube takes up / fills with the fluid due to capillary action, i.e. in a synergistic manner, the tube is wetted and / or becomes heavy and sinks by the fluid on both its inner and outer surface.

[0020] Preferably, the tube, in particular its inner and / or outer surface, is wettable such that the contact angle between a droplet of fluid and the surface of the tube is less than 70° or 60°, in particular less than 50° or 30°, most preferably less than 20°.

[0021] Preferably, the surface energy of the tube, in particular the surface energy of its inner and / or outer surface, is greater than or equal to the surface tension of the fluid. Most preferably, the surface energy of the tube, in particular the surface energy of its inner and / or outer surface, is at least 2 mN / m or 5 mN / m, in particular 8 mN / m or 10 mN / m, greater than the surface tension of the fluid. In this way, good wetting of the tube can be achieved.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the tube comprises at least partially hydrophilic and / or polar faces, and the fluid is aqueous and / or comprises an aqueous solution and / or water as solvent, or the fluid comprises an alcohol solution and / or an alcohol, such as ethanol, as solvent. In this way, when the tube comes into contact with the fluid, the fluid wets the tube extensively, and in particular its hydrophilic and / or polar faces, with a film of fluid.

[0023] Due to its wettability, the tube, when wetted in contact with the fluid, becomes heavy with fluid and / or automatically aligns / bends towards the fluid in the container even if the fluid changes its position within the container, for example when the cartridge is rotated to a horizontal position and / or upside down. This effect can be further enhanced by configuring the tube as a capillary tube as described above, thereby automatically filling the tube with fluid.

[0024] At least the free end of the tube is maintained within the fluid by (good) adhesion of the fluid to the tube surfaces, i.e. the forces that make the fluid stick to the tube surfaces, and / or by cohesion of the fluid molecules, i.e. the forces that make the fluid molecules stick to each other.

[0025] In particular, the adhesive and cohesive forces are greater than the restoring forces of the tube caused by bending, so that the tube does not return to its rest position when the spatial orientation of the cartridge is changed, but rather remains immersed in the fluid. In other words, the tube, or at least its axial end, moves automatically with the fluid in the cartridge and / or always remains in contact with the fluid, thereby making it possible to extract the fluid at least essentially independent of the spatial orientation of the cartridge.

[0026] That is, the present invention allows for fluid withdrawal and / or pulling and / or actuation of the nebulizer at least essentially independent of the spatial orientation of the cartridge. In particular, the patient, i.e., the user of the nebulizer, does not need to ensure that the nebulizer is oriented in a certain spatial orientation, e.g., vertically, when pulling and / or actuating the nebulizer. In this way, misuse or misapplication of the nebulizer can be prevented or at least the risk of such misuse or misapplication can be reduced.

[0027] Preferably, immersion of the tube is such that the free end of the tube is (always) positioned within the fluid of the cartridge at least essentially at or adjacent to the lowest point of the fluid for all spatial orientations.

[0028] Due to wettability and / or capillary action, the volume that can be withdrawn from the cartridge and / or the useful life of the cartridge may be increased.

[0029] Existing cartridges are typically overfilled with the fluid to be nebulized to ensure delivery of a constant volume dose, at least for the total amount of application planned. With the present invention, nearly the entire capacity of a normally filled cartridge can be utilized, eliminating the need to significantly overfill the cartridge.

[0030] Wettability is preferably the ability of a material / surface, especially a solid surface, to wet and / or maintain contact with a fluid, especially a liquid. It depends on the type of fluid and the type of material / surface used. In particular, wettability depends on the surface tension of the fluid, the surface energy of the material / surface and the surface tension (interfacial energy) between the fluid and the surface. The wettability of a material / surface can be quantified by the contact angle, i.e. the angle formed between a drop of liquid and the (solid) surface / material in question.

[0031] The wettability / surface energy of a material / surface is preferably measured according to DIN 55660-2:2011-12.

[0032] Preferably, a material / surface is considered wettable by a fluid if the contact angle is less than 90°, in particular less than 70°, and / or if the surface energy of the material / surface is greater than or equal to the surface tension of the fluid, in particular at least 2 mN / m or 5 mN / m.

[0033] The contact angle is preferably the angle formed between a drop of a fluid on the surface of the material, i.e. its tangent at the contact point, and the surface of the material. The contact angle depends on the surface tension of the fluid, the surface energy of the material / surface, and the surface tension (interfacial energy) between the fluid and the material / surface. The contact angle is a measure for the wettability of a surface / material. A small contact angle, e.g., less than 70°, corresponds to high wettability, whereas a large contact angle, e.g., greater than 70° or 90°, corresponds to low wettability or non-wetting / non-wetting, commonly known as the pearl effect or lotus effect.

[0034] The contact angle Θ can be defined as follows (Young's equation): cos(Θ) = [σ S -σ SF ] / σ F Here, σ S is the surface energy of the (solid) material / face, σ SF is the surface tension (interfacial energy) between the fluid and the material / surface, σ F is the surface tension of the fluid measured in [N / m].

[0035] The contact angle is preferably measured according to DIN 55660-2:2011-12 and / or according to ISO 15989:2004-12.

[0036] The surface tension of a fluid is caused by the cohesive forces of the fluid. Due to the surface tension, the fluid surface acquires the smallest possible surface area. The surface tension of a fluid is preferably measured according to DIN 55660-3:2011-12.

[0037] The surface tension of a solid material, also called surface energy, is a measure of the energy required to break the intermolecular bonds of the material. Materials with high surface energy are more easily wettable than materials with low surface energy. The surface energy of a solid material is preferably measured according to DIN 55660-2:2011-12.

[0038] In particular, a surface can be (fully) wetted by a fluid if the surface energy of the surface is preferably at least 2 mN / m or at least 5 mN / m higher than the surface tension of the fluid.

[0039] To achieve the desired properties of the tube, i.e. to increase its surface energy and / or wettability, the tube is preferably surface treated, in particular corona, plasma, flame, wet chemical treated and / or (thin film) coated. These surface treatment methods are known to the person skilled in the art.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively, the tube preferably contains at least one additive to increase its surface energy.

[0041] Preferably, the tube is made of rubber, in particular butyl rubber, and / or (flexible) plastics, in particular thermoplastics and / or thermoplastic elastomers such as polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene terephthalate, or polyether block amides. Typically, these (untreated) plastics have a surface energy of 27 mN / m to 45 mN / m and / or a contact angle with (distilled) water of 70° to 120°. Depending on the fluid, this surface energy has to be increased, preferably by surface treatment and / or (thin film) coating, to achieve the desired wettability.

[0042] Additionally or alternatively, the fluid contains at least one additive, such as benzalkonium chloride, to reduce its surface tension.

[0043] Optionally, it is envisaged that the cartridge can be equipped with a immersion / contact element such as a weight, anchor or sponge, etc., attached to the tube, in particular its free end, preferably so that at least the free end of the tube is maintained in the fluid and / or pulled down by gravity. This additionally ensures that the tube, at least its free end or tip, remains in contact with the fluid in the container, even if the container changes position. However, the size and / or weight of the immersion / contact element must be dimensioned small / low to prevent bubble formation in the container, especially if the nebulizer contains moving components, for example for the pulling process and / or during the nebulization process. The total weight of the tube must be as small as possible to prevent or reduce bubble formation.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally, the immersion element may also be arranged such that it is positioned around and / or surrounds or covers one (end) portion of the tube.

[0045] Preferably, the density of the immersion element is selected such that it is immersed in the fluid but does not sink to the bottom of the container, in this way it does not stick to the walls of the container or restrict the movement of the tube.

[0046] Due to capillary action within the tube and / or the configuration of the tube as a capillary, the tube automatically fills with fluid and thereby weighs down (further).

[0047] Preferably, the tube is not only maintained in the fluid by gravity, but rather / mainly by the wettability of the tube as described above. Nevertheless, both the forces generated by gravity, capillary action and / or by the fluid drawn into the tube and / or by the immersion elements, and the forces generated by adhesion, wettability, act synergistically to ensure that the tip of the tube in particular remains immersed in the fluid, at least essentially independent of its spatial orientation.

[0048] According to another aspect of the invention, the container, and in particular its inner surface, is less wettable with fluid than the tube, thus less fluid adheres to the (inner) surface or layer of the container, increasing the total amount of dose that can be dispensed.

[0049] Preferably, the surface energy of the container, in particular the surface energy of its inner surface, is less than the surface energy of the tube and / or less than or equal to the surface tension of the fluid.

[0050] Preferably, the contact angle between the (inner) surface of the container and the drop of fluid is larger than the contact angle between the surface of the tube and the drop of fluid. Most preferably, the contact angle between the surface of the container and the drop of fluid is larger than 70° or 90°.

[0051] When aqueous fluids and / or aqueous solutions and / or water are used as solvent, the container is preferably at least partially hydrophobic and / or comprises an at least partially hydrophobic and / or apolar (inner) surface or layer.

[0052] It is believed that the container or bag, and in particular its (inner) surfaces or layers, can be coated and / or manufactured with a material having a low surface energy, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), thus reducing the wettability of the container so that less fluid adheres to the (inner) surfaces or layers of the container or bag.

[0053] That is, in a synergistic manner, a tube with a high surface energy (relative to the surface energy of the container) and a container with a low surface energy (relative to the surface energy of the tube) facilitate increasing the volume of fluid that can be drawn from the cartridge, and further, the tube does not adhere to the container because no fluid film forms between the tube and the container.

[0054] According to another aspect of the invention, the tube has a minimum bending radius of less than half, a quarter or a fifth of the inner diameter of the container, and preferably the tube is kink-resistant when bent to the minimum bending radius, thereby ensuring that the tube can be bent, preferably at least 180°, within the cartridge without kinking and thus affecting the withdrawal of fluid. In this way, fluid can be withdrawn even if the spatial orientation of the nebulizer or cartridge is changed, for example if the nebulizer / cartridge is rotated upside down.

[0055] Optionally, the tube may further comprise a valve that closes if immersion of the free end of the tube and / or the immersion element in the fluid cannot be guaranteed, for example if the tube does not bend at least 90°, 120°, 150° or more in an upside-down position and / or if the valve or free end of the tube points upwards, thus preventing air from being sucked into the delivery mechanism of the nebulizer.

[0056] Preferably, the cartridge comprises a closure, particularly preferably a funnel-shaped and / or cone-shaped connection port / adapter, for fluidly connecting the container to the nebulizer or its pump / pressure generator.

[0057] The location of the closure on the cartridge preferably defines the top of the cartridge. In the following description, terms relating to location and orientation such as top, bottom, above, below, or upright, etc. preferably refer to the above-mentioned location of the closure even if the cartridge is in a different position / orientation.

[0058] Furthermore, the axial direction is to be understood as the direction from the closure or top of the container to the bottom of the cartridge or container. The radial direction is the direction perpendicular to the above-mentioned axial direction. At least in the case of an essentially cylindrical cartridge, the axial direction is the direction of the longitudinal axis of the cylinder and the radial direction is the direction of the radius of the cylinder.

[0059] The closure, in particular the connection port, preferably extends into the interior of the container and / or preferably maintains or forms an axial end of the tube in the central area of ​​the container, preferably allowing the free end of the tube to reach both the outermost area of ​​the container, in particular the upper and lower axial ends of the container, i.e. both its top and its bottom. This configuration makes it possible to reduce the length of the tube and therefore the risk of kinking.

[0060] According to another aspect of the invention, an at least partially flexible delivery tube / dip tube / capillary, which is wettable by a fluid, is preferably used to draw / deliver a dose of a preferably polar fluid from a container for a nebulizer, such that, in contact with the fluid, the tube, in particular at least its free end, automatically wets with a film of the fluid and / or automatically takes up the fluid and / or becomes heavy with the fluid and / or automatically aligns / bends towards the fluid in the container. In this way the above mentioned advantages can be achieved.

[0061] According to another aspect of the invention, which can also be implemented independently, the tube has the shape of a spiral, which is particularly preferably a conical spiral, the largest diameter of which is at the free end of the tube and the smallest diameter of which is at and / or tapers towards the fixed end of the tube.

[0062] Preferably, the helix is ​​compressible and / or stretchable and / or its axial length is adjustable, in particular so that the free end of the tube always remains immersed in the fluid. Preferably, the helix is ​​such that it automatically adjusts its length to the fluid level or filling level, thereby advantageously preventing the tube from adhering to the inner wall of the container or bag.

[0063] The conical spiral is preferably compressible into an at least essentially two-dimensional or flat spiral. In this way, the possibility of the spiral or tube adhering to itself is preferably prevented or reduced. A further advantage is that the tube is easier to handle, for example during manufacturing.

[0064] Preferably, the helix is ​​reversible when turned upside down. The term "reversible" preferably means that the longitudinal or axial extension of the helix is ​​reversed. In an upright position, the helix preferably extends from the fixed end towards the bottom or lower axial end of the container or cartridge. In an upside down position, the extension is preferably reversed such that the helix extends from the fixed end towards the top or upper axial end or closure of the container or cartridge. In particular, the free end of the helix or tube is at least essentially pointing towards the closure and / or is at least essentially the point of the helix or tube closest to the closure.

[0065] The proposed helical shape of the tube preferably ensures that the free end of the tube remains immersed in the fluid even when the cartridge is in an upside-down position. In this way, it is preferably ensured that it is always possible to withdraw fluid from the cartridge, especially in an upside-down position. This can be advantageous, for example, in very thin cartridges with an internal diameter that is small compared to the internal axial length of the tube, when it is not possible to realize a bending capability of the tube up to 180°.

[0066] The proposed nebulizer comprises a preferably insertable cartridge having a reservoir containing the fluid to be nebulized, and further comprises a housing for receiving the cartridge and a delivery mechanism for delivering / pressurizing the fluid.

[0067] According to another aspect of the invention, which can also be implemented independently, the nebulizer comprises a preferably rigid connecting element, in particular configured as a capillary, for fluidly connecting the cartridge to the delivery mechanism, and a preferably flexible / bendable tube, in particular configured as a capillary, for transporting fluid from the container, wherein the connecting element and the tube comprise or form a continuous capillary and / or a constant flow zone, i.e. there are no voids, dead volumes, gaps, and / or capillary action stops at the transition from the tube to the connecting element.

[0068] Any voids or gaps, also known as dead volumes, at the transition from the tube to the connecting element result in an expansion of the flow area in that region. When fluid is transported from the tube, such dead volumes at the transition must first be (completely) filled with fluid before the transport of fluid through the connecting element can continue further. Dead volumes can therefore result in capillary action stops, slowing down the transport of fluid. It is therefore desirable to prevent such dead volumes, or at least keep them as small as possible, in order to ensure a constant fluid flow over the entire length of the capillary.

[0069] Preferably, the (widest / largest) flow area at the transition from the tube 25 to the connecting element is at least essentially equal to and / or not greater than 120% of the (smallest or largest) flow area of ​​the connecting element and / or tube.

[0070] In particular, the diameter of the (widest / largest) flow area at the transition from the tube to the connecting element is smaller than the outer diameter of the tube and / or the connecting element.

[0071] In this way, flow losses at the transition from the tube to the connecting element are reduced, in particular bubble formation at the transition from the tube to the connecting element can be reduced and / or capillary action can be used uninterruptedly in both the tube and the connecting element.

[0072] According to another aspect of the invention, which can also be implemented independently, the cartridge comprises a penetrable or breakable membrane or sealing wall, which is preferably integrated or arranged in the closure, in particular in the connection port, such that in the delivery state, which should be understood as the state of the cartridge before it is connected to or inserted into the nebulizer, the cartridge, in particular the container or the fluid contained therein, is preferably sealed from the environment.

[0073] The sealing wall is preferably adapted to be penetrated or broken by a connecting element of the nebulizer when the cartridge is inserted into the nebulizer or connected to a delivery mechanism of the nebulizer, thereby advantageously preventing leakage of fluid from the cartridge and / or contamination of the fluid.

[0074] The membrane or sealing wall is preferably formed integrally with the closure or the connection port or formed as one piece therewith. Particularly preferably, the membrane or sealing wall comprises a circumferential portion of reduced thickness and a film hinge, both of which are formed integrally with the closure or the connection port.

[0075] Preferably, when the connection element is inserted into the connection port, the membrane or sealing wall tears or breaks along a circumferential portion and is tilted or hinged aside by a film hinge. In particular, after breaking, the membrane or sealing wall remains connected to the closure or connection port through the film hinge. Thereby, it is ensured that the membrane or sealing wall does not block or block the tube, the connection element and / or the delivery mechanism, but opens or breaks in a defined and reproducible manner.

[0076] Preferably, the membrane or sealing wall further comprises a thickened connecting portion, in particular formed by a film hinge, connecting the closure or connection port with the centre of the membrane or sealing wall.

[0077] Particularly preferably, the closure or connection port and the membrane or sealing wall are formed as one piece by injection molding. In this case, the connection part or film hinge preferably forms a bridge or additional connection part, which allows the molding material to penetrate into the center of the sealing wall and thereby form the sealing wall without having to go beyond a particularly thin circumferential part. This advantageously enables or simplifies the process of injection molding the closure or connection port with the integral film or sealing wall. This contributes to a cost-effective production of the cartridge.

[0078] According to another aspect of the invention, which can also be implemented independently, the cartridge is adapted to seal the connection element, in particular in the radial direction. The closure, in particular the connection port, is preferably adapted to surround or seal the connection element in a liquid-tight and / or gas-tight manner. In particular, the closure or the connection port may be at least partially stretchable or flexible. When the preferably rigid connection element is inserted into the cartridge, the closure or the connection port preferably stretches away and / or forms a press-fit / tight-fit connection with the connection element.

[0079] According to another aspect of the invention, which may also be implemented independently, the cartridge comprises a sealing element between the closure or connection port and the container of the cartridge. The sealing element preferably seals the container axially and / or radially. Such sealing is preferably achieved by a press fit / tight fit of the sealing element between the closure / connection port and the container.

[0080] Preferably, the sealing element extends into the interior of the container and / or is adapted to sealingly receive the connection element by a press-fit / tight fit in a manner similar to that described above for the connection port in particular, in which the connection element is sealingly received by the sealing element after penetrating the connection port.

[0081] The seal between the connection element and the sealing element can be provided instead of or in addition to the seal between the connection element and the connection port. Particularly preferably, the connection element is sealed or sealingly received by both the connection port and the sealing element. In this case, the seal is preferably formed or established first with the connection port and with the sealing element after the connection element or its axial end has penetrated the connection port.

[0082] The cartridge or closure may optionally include an adapter, in particular for connecting a tube to the closure or to the connection port. Alternatively or in addition to a seal between the connection element and the connection port and / or sealing element, a seal may be provided between the adapter and the connection element by press-fit / tight fit in the same manner as described above in particular for the connection port. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the sealing element includes, forms or forms part of the adapter or vice versa.

[0083] The aspects of the invention described above and below can be realized independently of one another and in any combination.

[0084] Further advantages, features, characteristics and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments which refer to the appended claims and drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0085] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a known nebulizer in an untensioned state. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view rotated 90° compared to FIG. 1 of a known nebulizer in tension. [Diagram 3] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to FIG. 3 connected to a nebulizer, partially shown. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to FIG. 4 rotated to a horizontal position. [Figure 6] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to FIG. 4 rotated upside down; [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the tube of the cartridge according to FIG. 3, partially shown, moved away from the connection port connected to the nebulizer. [Figure 8] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic detail view of the cartridge according to FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to a third embodiment of the invention, connected to a nebulizer, partially shown. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic detail view of the cartridge according to FIG. 10. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is yet another schematic detail view of the cartridge according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of a cartridge having a spiral-shaped tube according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of the cartridge according to FIG. 13 with a higher fill level of fluid. [Figure 15] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of the cartridge according to FIG. 13 with an additional immersion element. [Figure 16] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of a variant of the cartridge according to FIG. 13 having a tube shaped as a double conical spiral. [Figure 17] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of another variant of the cartridge according to FIG. 13 having a tube shaped as a conical spiral. [Figure 18] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge according to FIG. 3 rotated upside down and connected to a nebulizer partially shown. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of a cartridge according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge having a closed membrane or sealing wall according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a cartridge having an open membrane or sealing wall according to a seventh embodiment connected to a nebulizer, partially shown. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a detailed perspective view of a cartridge according to a seventh embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0086] In the drawings, the same numbers are used for identical or similar parts, preferably providing corresponding or equivalent features and advantages, even if the relevant description is not repeated.

[0087] Figures 1 and 2 show a known nebulizer / dispensing device 1 for atomizing / atomizing / dispensing a fluid 2, in particular a pharmaceutical composition or drug, shown diagrammatically in an untensioned state (Figure 1) and in a tensioned state (Figure 2).

[0088] Fluid 2 is preferably polar and / or contains an electric dipole moment, in particular fluid 2 is aqueous or alcoholic and / or comprises an aqueous or alcoholic solution and / or contains water or alcohol, in particular ethanol, as solvent.

[0089] The nebulizer 1 is preferably adapted to dispense and / or nebulize a fluid 2 or a dose thereof.

[0090] Once fluid 2, preferably a liquid, in particular a pharmaceutical ingredient, has been atomized / dispensed, an aerosol A (shown in dotted lines in FIG. 1) is preferably formed or dispensed, which can be inhaled or inhaled by a user (not shown).

[0091] Usually, the inhalation is carried out at least once a day, in particular several times a day, preferably at set intervals depending on the affliction or illness the patient is suffering from.

[0092] The nebulizer 1 is especially configured as a handheld inhaler and / or preferably operates solely mechanically and / or without propellant / gas, nevertheless other configurations are possible as well.

[0093] The nebulizer 1 has or includes or is adapted to receive an insertable or replaceable cartridge 3 containing a fluid 2. The cartridge 3 thus forms a reservoir for the fluid 2 to be nebulized / dispensed.

[0094] Figures 1 and 2 show a known nebulizer 1 with a cartridge 3 shown diagrammatically, and Figures 3 to 22 show a cartridge 3 according to the invention or parts thereof. Preferably, some features, properties and aspects described with reference to Figures 1 and 2 may apply to the cartridge 3 described with reference to Figures 3 to 22, i.e. the cartridge 3 according to Figures 3 to 22 may include some features, properties and aspects of the cartridge 3 according to Figures 1 and 2. In particular, the cartridge 3 described with reference to Figures 3 to 22 may be used with the nebulizer 1 described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0095] In the following, a known cartridge 3 according to FIGS.

[0096] Preferably, the cartridge 3 contains sufficient fluid 2 to provide multiple doses 2 of fluid, in particular at least 100 or up to 150 and / or 200 or more dosage units or doses, i.e. to allow at least 100 and / or up to 200 sprays or applications.

[0097] The cartridge 3 preferably maintains a volume of about 0.5 ml to 30 ml, particularly preferably about 4 ml to 20 ml. Furthermore, the number of doses contained in the cartridge 3 and / or the total volume of fluid 2 contained in the cartridge 3 may vary depending on the fluid 2 or individual medication, and / or depending on the cartridge 3, and / or depending on the required medication, etc.

[0098] Preferably, the nebulizer 1 is adapted to nebulize / dispense a dose of between 1 μl and 80 μl, more preferably between 5 μl and 20 μl, or alternatively a dose of more than 20 μl, in particular about 50 μl, within one actuation / use of the nebulizer 1 and / or within one nebulization / aerosol delivery / dispense.

[0099] Preferably, the cartridges 3 can be replaced or exchanged, in particular as disclosed in WO 2012 / 162305 A1. Preferably, the total number of uses of the nebulizer 1, and thus the number of cartridges 3 that can be used with the same nebulizer 1, is preferably limited, for example, to a total of 4, 5 or 6 cartridges 3. WO 2012 / 162305 A1 discloses such a limitation on the total number of cartridges 3 that can be used with the same nebulizer 1.

[0100] The cartridge 3, and in particular the container 4, is preferably of substantially cylindrical or cartridge shape and / or rigid configuration. Nevertheless, other configurational solutions are possible as well. In particular, the cartridge 3 or the container 4 can be at least partially spherical.

[0101] With the nebulizer 1 open, the cartridge 3 can preferably be inserted therein, preferably from below, and replaced if desired.

[0102] The known cartridge 3 in combination with the known nebulizer 1 comprises a preferably rigid container 4 and / or an optional, preferably flexible / collapsible bag 5 containing a fluid 2, preferably the optional bag 5 being placed or maintained within the container 4.

[0103] Optionally, the cartridge 3 may further comprise a housing 33, preferably rigid and / or made of metal, in particular aluminum. A particular embodiment of such a housing is described in more detail in relation to Figures 21 and 22 according to a seventh embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0104] Preferably, the known cartridge 3 in combination with the known nebulizer 1 is constructed as described in WO 96 / 06011 A2 and / or WO 00 / 49988 A2.

[0105] Optionally, the cartridge 3, particularly the container 4, preferably includes a ventilation / vent portion 6, such as a valve, opening or hole for ventilation / venting of the cartridge 3, particularly the container 4, to enable or support the withdrawal of the fluid 2 from the container 4.

[0106] Preferably, the ventilation section 6 forms a direct or indirect gas connection between the interior of the container 4 and its surroundings and / or environment and / or allows pressure compensation between the interior of the container 4 and its surroundings and / or environment.

[0107] When the vent 6 is open, air or any other gas can flow through the vent 6 into the container 4, so that pressure compensation between the interior of the container 4 and its surroundings is possible or achieved. In particular, negative air pressure can be avoided or at least compensated for when withdrawing the fluid 2 and / or collapsing the optional bag 5.

[0108] Figures 1, 2, and 20 show an indirect gas connection, while Figures 3-6, 8, 10, and 13-18 show a direct gas connection.

[0109] The indirect gas connection allows for pressure compensation between the interior of the container 4 and its surroundings so that the bag 5 can be collapsed. The air flowing into the container 4 through the vent 6 does not come into direct contact with the fluid 2 contained in the bag 5.

[0110] In contrast to indirect gas connections, direct gas connections such as those shown in Figures 3-6, 8, 10, and 13-18 allow air to enter the container 4 and directly contact the fluid 2 contained therein.

[0111] Preferably, at least in the case of a direct gas connection, the ventilation section 6 comprises a sterile filter so that the fluid 2 is not contaminated by impurities or foreign bodies of air or any other gas. In the case of an indirect gas connection, the gas is not in direct contact with the fluid 2 and the sterile filter can be omitted. However, it is also possible to provide a sterile filter in the ventilation section 6 for an indirect gas connection.

[0112] Preferably, the vent 6 opens automatically and / or before or during the first use of the nebulizer 1 .

[0113] Alternatively, the cartridge 3, and in particular the container 4, may be pressurized, for example using a propellant / gas, preferably at a pressure of more than 2 MPa or 3 MPa and / or less than 10 MPa or 8 MPa, so that in particular ventilation / venting can be omitted and / or the pressure in the cartridge 3 or container 4 is reduced after each delivery of a dose of fluid 2.

[0114] The cartridge 3 is preferably closed and / or sealed and / or preferably comprises a closure 7, in which case the closure 7 is preferably adapted to close and / or seal the container 4 and / or bag 5 in a particularly air-tight and / or liquid-tight manner.

[0115] Optionally, the ventilation section 6 is integrated in the closure section 7 and / or opens together with the closure section 7, as described in WO 2006 / 136426 A1, for example from page 9, line 20 to page 14, issue 2.

[0116] In such an embodiment, a ventilation section 6, such as a thin conduit, is preferably opened / created by opening / penetrating the closure 7, in particular such that pressure compensation through the ventilation section 6 is achieved without the fluid 2 leaking therethrough.

[0117] The cartridge 3, in particular the closure 7, preferably comprises a preferably pierceable seal 8 and / or a connection port / adapter 9, which is preferably flexible, in particular funnel-shaped and / or cone-shaped.

[0118] The seal 8 is shown diagrammatically in Figure 3, where the cartridge 3 according to a first embodiment of the invention is in a closed / unpierced state. The seal 8 is further shown diagrammatically in Figure 21, in a closed / unpierced state, and in Figure 22, in an open / pierced state, according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. Figure 23 shows a detail of the seal 8 according to the seventh embodiment.

[0119] The seal 8 preferably covers or seals the container 4 and / or the connection port 9 , at least before the cartridge 3 is inserted into the nebulizer 1 .

[0120] Preferably, the seal 8 may be embodied as a foil 8A and / or a membrane or sealing wall 31, in particular a diaphragm or septum, most preferably in which case the foil 8A covers the connection port 9 and / or the membrane or sealing wall 31 or is integrated / arranged within the connection port 9.

[0121] A preferred configuration for the membrane or sealing wall 31 is described in more detail below in conjunction with Figures 21-23.

[0122] The cartridge 3 shown in Figures 3 and Figures 21 and 22 comprises both a foil 8A and a membrane or sealing wall 31, preferably in which case the connection element 14 of the inhaler 1 penetrates or breaks / opens both the foil 8A and the membrane or sealing wall 31 when the cartridge 3 is inserted and connected to the inhaler 1.

[0123] The cartridge 3 preferably comprises a (further) sealing S1 between the container 4 and the closure 7. In figures 3 to 8, 10 and 20 this sealing S1 is shown as a sealing element 32, for example in the form of a sealing ring, which is positioned between the container 4 and the closure 7. In particular, the sealing S1 and / or the sealing element 32 axially seal the cartridge 3. However, other solutions are also possible here, particularly preferred being a sealing S1 or a sealing element 32 as shown in figures 21 and 22, which will be explained in more detail below in connection with the seventh embodiment of the invention.

[0124] The nebulizer 1 preferably includes a delivery / pressurization mechanism 10, preferably a pressure generator or pump, for drawing, pressurizing, conveying and / or nebulizing / dispensing fluid 2, particularly in a pre-set dosage, optionally in an adjustable dosage.

[0125] In particular, the delivery mechanism 10 draws or aspirates the fluid 2, i.e. a dose 2 of fluid, from the cartridge 3, in particular from the container 4 and / or bag 5, preferably when actuating or tensioning or loading the nebulizer 1. The drawn fluid 2 or dose 2 of fluid is then preferably dispensed, in particular pressurized and / or nebulized, in a second stage in which the mechanical energy stored during the initial tensioning is released.

[0126] In particular, nebulizer 1 includes an energy store (preferably a drive spring 12) that is loaded (preferably tensioned) during a loading or tensioning process, and this energy is released to nebulize a fluid 2 or a dose 2 of fluid drawn into nebulizer 1. Thus, normal use of nebulizer 1 encompasses a loading process and a dispensing process.

[0127] The nebulizer 1 or delivery mechanism 10 preferably includes a holder 11 for holding the cartridge 3, a drive spring 12 (partially shown in Figures 1 and 2) associated with the holder 11, and / or an obstruction element 13, preferably in the form of or having a button, preferably for manual actuation or depression.

[0128] The obstruction element 13 is preferably capable of capturing and blocking the holder 11 and / or being manually actuated to release the holder 11 and allow the drive spring 12 to extend.

[0129] The nebulizer 1 or delivery mechanism 10 preferably includes a delivery / connection element 14, such as a delivery tube, a check valve 15, a pressure chamber 16, a nozzle 17 for atomizing the fluid 2, and / or a mouthpiece 18.

[0130] The fully inserted cartridge 3, preferably its closure 7, is fixed or maintained in a form-fitting manner in the nebulizer 1 through the holder 11, in particular such that the connection element 14 fluidly connects the container 4 and / or bag 5 to the nebulizer 1 or the delivery mechanism 10.

[0131] Preferably, when inserting the cartridge 3 into the nebulizer 1 and / or when connecting the cartridge 3 to the delivery mechanism 10, the connection element 14 penetrates into the container 4 and / or bag 5 and / or at least partially penetrates or breaks the seal 8 and / or is sealingly received by the connection port 9 in a particularly tightly fitting manner, particularly preferably forming a sealing S2 between the connection port 9 and the connection element 14.

[0132] In particular, the cartridge 3 has or forms an insertion opening, preferably formed in or by the closure 7, for the connecting element 14. The opening comprises a preferably funnel-shaped first part and a preferably cylindrical second part. The first part preferably tapers towards the second part. In particular, the second part has at least an essentially constant diameter, which preferably corresponds to the diameter of the connecting element 14. This opening can be initially covered or closed, in particular by a seal 8.

[0133] The first portion is preferably configured to be able to align and / or guide the connecting element 14 to the second portion.

[0134] The second portion preferably has a diameter (slightly) smaller than the outer diameter of the connecting element 14. In particular, upon receiving the connecting element 14, the second portion flexes / stretches to surround the connecting element 14.

[0135] In this way, a seal S2 is formed between the connecting element 14 and the second part, in particular at least essentially through the entire second part, by a press-fit / tight fit. Furthermore, the cartridge 3 or the closure 7 is preferably adapted to compensate for radial length tolerances of the connecting element 14.

[0136] Preferably, the connecting element 14 is configured as an elongated hollow cylinder, in particular as a needle, and / or includes a tapered / sharp end.

[0137] Preferably, the connecting element 14 is rigid, in particular made of metal, most preferably of stainless steel, and / or adapted to penetrate or break the seal 8, in particular the foil 8A and / or the membrane or sealing wall 31.

[0138] Most preferably, the connecting element 14 is configured as a capillary, in particular with an inner diameter of less than 1 mm or 0.8 mm, most preferably less than 0.7 mm or 0.5 mm, and / or more than 0.1 mm or 0.2 mm. However, the inner diameter should not be sized too small, as this would reduce the flow rate that can be achieved within the connecting element 14.

[0139] The nebulizer 1, and in particular the holder 11, is preferably configured so that the cartridge 3 can be released or replaced.

[0140] When the drive spring 12 is pulled axially during the tensioning process or during actuation, the holder 11 , the cartridge 3 and the connecting element 14 move downwards and / or towards the base of the cartridge 3 .

[0141] The movement of the connection element 14 downwards and / or towards the base of the cartridge 3 expands the volume of the pressure chamber 16 and / or reduces the pressure in the pressure chamber 16, so that in particular the fluid 2 is drawn or sucked from the container 4 and / or bag 5 through the connection element 14 into the delivery mechanism 10, in particular through the non-return valve 15, into the pressure chamber 16. In this state, the drive spring 12 remains compressed, since the holder 11 is captured by the occlusion element 13. The nebulizer 1 is subsequently in an activated or tensioned state.

[0142] During the subsequent relaxation of the dispensing / nebulization process, i.e. after activation or depression of the occlusion element 13, the connection element 14, with its non-return valve 15 now closed, moves back upwards towards the pressure chamber 16 of Figures 1 and 2, thereby reducing the volume of the pressure chamber 16. Due to the non-return valve 15 in the occlusion, the fluid 2 or its dose in the pressure chamber 16 is placed under pressure. In this state, the non-return valve 15 therefore functions as a pressurizing ram or piston.

[0143] The pressure thus generated causes the fluid 2 or a dose thereof to be atomized upon passing through the nozzle 17 into an aerosol A, as shown by the dotted line in FIG.

[0144] Typically, the nebulizer 1 operates with a spring pressure on the fluid of 5 MPa to 300 MPa, preferably 10 MPa to 250 MPa, and / or with a volume of fluid 2 delivered per stroke of 10 μl to 50 μl, preferably 10 μl to 20 μl, in particular about 15 μl. Alternatively, the nebulizer 1 operates with a volume of fluid 2 delivered per stroke of more than 20 μl, in particular about 40 or 50 μl.

[0145] The fluid 2 is converted into or atomized as an aerosol 14, the droplets of which have an aerodynamic diameter of up to 20 μm, preferably between 3 μm and 10 μm.

[0146] Preferably, the generated jet spray is cone-shaped and / or has an opening angle of between 20° and 160°, preferably between 80° and 100°.

[0147] A user or patient (not shown) can inhale the aerosol A thus produced, preferably whilst being able to draw air into the mouthpiece 18 through at least one optional air supply opening 19.

[0148] The nebulizer 1 preferably comprises a housing 20 having an upper housing part 21, a lower housing part 22, and / or an inner housing part 23.

[0149] The inner housing part 23 and / or the lower housing part 22 are preferably rotatable relative to the upper housing part 21. In particular, the lower housing part 22 is manually actuatable and / or releasably fixed, in particular attached or held, to the inner housing part 23, preferably by a retaining element.

[0150] In order to insert and / or replace the cartridge 3, the housing 20 can be opened and / or the lower housing part 22 can be removed from the nebulizer 1, in particular from the inner housing part 23.

[0151] Preferably, the cartridge 3 may be inserted before closing the housing 20 and / or before connecting the lower housing part 22 to the inner housing part 23 or the upper housing part 21. Alternatively, the cartridge 3 may be inserted, opened and / or fluidly connected to the delivery mechanism 10 automatically or simultaneously when connecting the lower housing part 22 to the upper housing part 21 and / or the inner housing part 23 and / or when (fully) closing the housing 20 or the nebulizer 1.

[0152] The lower housing part 22 preferably forms a cap-like lower housing part and / or fits around or onto the lower free end of the cartridge 3 .

[0153] Preferably, the nebulizer 1 or the drive spring 12 can be actuated or tensioned or loaded manually, in particular by actuation or rotation of an actuating member, here preferably by rotation of the lower housing part 22 or any other component.

[0154] An actuating member, preferably the lower housing part 22 , can be actuated, here rotated relative to the upper housing part 21 , to carry the inner housing part 23 together with the lower housing part 23 or to drive the inner housing part 23 .

[0155] The inner housing part 23 acts on a gear or transmission to convert the rotation into axial movement of the holder 11 and the cartridge 3. As a result, the drive spring 12 is pulled axially by a gear or transmission (not shown) formed between the inner housing part 23 and the holder 11.

[0156] During tensioning, the cartridge 3 and holder 11 move axially downwards until the cartridge 3 occupies or assumes an end position as shown in Figure 2. In this activated or tensioned state, the drive spring 12 is under tension and may be captured or retained by the occlusion element 13.

[0157] During the nebulization process, the cartridge is returned to its original position (untensioned state as shown in FIG. 1) by the force of the tensioned drive spring 12. Thus, the cartridge 3 performs a lifting or stroking movement during the tensioning and nebulization processes.

[0158] When the drive spring 12 is tensioned, the cartridge 3 moves with its end into or towards the end face of the lower housing part 22 .

[0159] A venting means, such as a piercing element 24 arranged in the lower housing part 22, preferably opens or penetrates the cartridge 3, preferably the container 4, in particular the ventilation section 6, when the cartridge 3 comes into contact with it for the first time. In this way, air can flow into the cartridge 3, in particular the container 4, and pressure compensation can be performed when the fluid 2 is drawn out of the cartridge 3 during tensioning of the nebulizer 1. As mentioned above, other constructional solutions are possible as well, in particular when omitting the optional bag 5. Such embodiments are described below with reference to figures 3 to 19.

[0160] The cartridge 3 according to the various embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 23, and in particular according to the first embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 7, preferably comprises a tube 25, in particular a capillary / dip tube / transport tube which is particularly preferred for the aspiration and / or transport of the fluid 2 from the container 4 and / or towards the delivery mechanism 10 or the connection element 14.

[0161] Tube 25 is preferably configured as an elongated hollow cylinder or capillary tube.

[0162] Preferably, the tube 25 comprises a first axial or fixed end 25A and a second axial or free end 25B, preferably the first axial or fixed end 25A being fixed / attached to the closure 7 or the connection port 9 and / or the second axial or free end 25B being freely movable within the container 4 as described in more detail below.

[0163] In particular, the tube 25 or the fixed end 25A is connected directly or indirectly to the closure 7 or to the connection port 9.

[0164] The embodiments shown in Figures 3-19 preferably do not include a flexible / collapsible bag 5, particularly since the bag 5 may interfere with the tube 25 and / or limit its ability to move freely within the container 4. Nevertheless, the embodiments shown in Figures 3-19 may also incorporate a bag 5 as described with respect to Figures 1, 2, and 20.

[0165] The tube 25 is preferably disposed completely within the container 4 and / or preferably extends completely within the container 4 .

[0166] Preferably, the tube 25, in particular its fixed end 25A, is mechanically and / or fluidly connected to the closure 7 or the connection port 9, preferably through an optional adapter 26, preferably in the manner of a snap-on or press fit and / or by adhesive.

[0167] Preferably, the adapter 26 connects the tube 25, i.e. its fixed end 25A, to the connection port 9 of the closure 7, preferably in the manner of a snap-on and / or press-fit and / or by adhesive.

[0168] In particular, the closure 7 may include an adapter 26 .

[0169] In the embodiment shown in figures 3 to 7, the adapter 26 and the tube 25 are preferably formed in one piece. Most preferably, the tube 25, in particular its fixed end 25A, extends outwards in the direction of the closure part 7 and / or forms the adapter 26. Nevertheless, other solutions are possible as well, in particular the adapter 26 may be formed as a separate part, as will be explained in connection with the second embodiment shown in figures 8 and 9 and the seventh embodiment shown in figures 21 to 23.

[0170] Preferably, the adapter 26 is funnel-shaped and / or cone-shaped and / or is attached to the connection port 9. In particular, the adapter 26 is flexible and / or adapted to sealingly receive the connection port 9 and / or the connection element 14, in particular its axial ends, most preferably in the manner of a press-fit / tight fit. Particularly preferably, sealings S3 and S4 are formed between the adapter 26 and the connection element 14 or the connection port 9, respectively.

[0171] Preferably, the adapter 26 forms a seal between the tube 25 and the connection port 9 and / or between the tube 25 and the connection element 14, in particular at its axial ends and / or outer edges. In particular, the adapter 26 is adapted to connect the tube 25 to the connection port 9 and / or the connection element 14 in a liquid-tight and / or gas-tight manner.

[0172] Preferably, the connection port 9 and / or adapter 26 are adapted to compensate for length tolerances of the connection element 14 and / or include compensation areas for sealingly receiving connection elements 14 of different lengths, as further described below with respect to Figures 4-7, 21, and 22.

[0173] Alternatively, the tube 25 is formed by and / or moulded onto the connection port 9. In such an embodiment, the connection port 9 and the tube 25 are preferably integrally formed, in particular the connection port 9 tapers in a particularly continuous manner towards the tube 25.

[0174] Preferably, the tube 25, at least its fixed end 25A, is (rigidly) maintained or fixed in a central region of the container 4. In particular, the closure 7 or the connection port 9 merges / tapers towards the tube 25, in particular the fixed end 25A, preferably in the central region of the container 4.

[0175] Preferably, the closure 7 or connection port 9 extends into the container 4 such that the tube 25 is maintained in a central region of the container 4 and / or the connection port 9 merges / tapers towards the tube 25 in the central region of the container 4.

[0176] Preferably, the tube 25 is shorter than the container 4 , ie its length is shorter than the height of the container 4 , in particular to enable the entire / fully extended tube 25 to be placed within the container 4 .

[0177] In particular, the tube 25 is positioned and / or maintained within the container 4 in an extended state such that the tube 25, i.e. its free end 25B, is non-contact and / or does not or barely reaches the wall or bottom of the container 4. Thereby, the risk of interference between the tube 25 and the container 4 and thus its movement restriction is reduced.

[0178] Preferably, the tube 25 has a length that is less than the height of the container 4 but greater than half the height of the container 4 .

[0179] Preferably, the tube 25 has a length less than 100 mm or 80 mm, in particular less than 70 mm or 60 mm, and / or more than 5 mm or 10 mm, in particular more than 15 mm or 20 mm.

[0180] The length of the tube 25 is preferably defined as the distance from the fixed end 25A to the free end 25B of the tube 25 and / or as the length of a section of the tube 25 having a constant inner and / or outer diameter and / or a constant wall thickness.

[0181] As mentioned above, tube 25 is preferably configured as a capillary tube, in particular such that due to capillary action, fluid 2 is automatically drawn into tube 25, and preferably such that tube 25 becomes heavy with fluid 2 due to capillary action. Most preferably, both the capillary configuration and the wettability of tube 25 result in immersion of tube 25 in fluid 2, preferably independent of the spatial orientation of cartridge 3, as will be further explained below.

[0182] Capillary action is the ability of a fluid, i.e., a liquid, to flow through a narrow space, i.e., a capillary, even against gravity due to the wettability of the capillary surface and / or the adhesion of the fluid to the capillary surface.

[0183] Gravity F exerted by a liquid column in a vertically aligned capillary tube G can be explained as follows: F G =m×g=πr 2 hρg where m is the mass of the liquid column, r is the (inner) radius of the capillary, h is the height / level of the liquid column above the fluid surface / level outside the capillary, ρ is the density of the liquid, and g is the acceleration due to gravity.

[0184] Surface tension of the capillary surface σ S and the surface tension between the capillary surface and the liquid σ SF The force F generated by and is the surface tension of the liquid, σ F and the contact angle Θ between the liquid and the capillary surface, which can be described by Young's equation above: F=[σ S -σ SF ]×2πr=cos(Θ)σ F ×2πr

[0185] At rest, the force FG is equal to the force F. Therefore, the height h of the liquid column can be described by the equation (also known as Jurin's law): h=2[σ S -σ SF ] / [rρg]=2cos(Θ)σ F / [rρg]

[0186] The height of the fluid / liquid column in the capillary tube, h, is determined by the surface tension σ S , i.e., the term |σ S -σ SF |or cos(Θ)σ F and / or by decreasing the capillary radius r.

[0187] Preferably, the flow area, in particular the inner diameter, of the tube 25 corresponds and / or matches the flow area and / or inner diameter of the connecting element 14 .

[0188] Preferably, the inner diameter of the tube 25 is smaller than, or particularly preferably the same as, the inner diameter of the connecting element 14. In particular, capillary action stoppage at the transition from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14 is thus minimized or prevented.

[0189] Preferably, the (smallest) inner diameter of the tube 25 is less than 1 mm or less than 0.8 mm, in particular less than 0.7 mm or less than 0.5 mm, and / or more than 0.1 mm or more than 0.2 mm. However, the inner diameter of the tube 25 should not be sized too small, as this would reduce the flow rate in the tube 25.

[0190] Preferably, the ratio of length to inside diameter of tube 25 is greater than 10 or 20 and / or less than 100 or 80.

[0191] Preferably, the height of the fluid / liquid column in the tube 25 caused by capillary action is at least 20% or 40%, in particular 50% or 80%, of the length of the tube 25 .

[0192] Due to capillary action, less energy is required to draw a dose 2 of fluid from the cartridge 3. Furthermore, the tube 25 becomes heavy with the weight of the fluid 2 drawn into it.

[0193] Preferably, the wall thickness of the tube 25 is less than 1 mm or 0.8 mm, in particular less than 0.7 mm or 0.6 mm, particularly preferably less than 0.4 mm or 0.3 mm, and / or more than 0.05 mm or 0.1 mm, in particular more than 0.12 mm or 0.14 mm.

[0194] The tube 25 is at least partially flexible and / or bendable and / or kink resistant, enabling the tube 25 to be bent within the container 4 or bag 5 without kinking, particularly when bent at least beyond its minimum bend radius.

[0195] Preferably, cartridge 3 includes an anti-kink device 26A that protects tube 25 from excessive bending and / or prevents kinking of tube 25, as exemplarily shown in Figure 6. Anti-kink device 26A is preferably attached to or formed by closure 7, connection port 9, and / or adapter 26. In particular, anti-kink device surrounds or forms a sleeve over a portion of tube 25 proximate or adjacent fixed end 25A.

[0196] Alternatively, anti-kink device 26A is formed by tube 25, preferably by thickening the tube wall near fixed end 25A.

[0197] The anti-kink device 26A preferably has a cylindrical, or particularly preferably a conical or funnel-shaped, shape, particularly tapered towards the fixed end 25A. The anti-kink device 26A can be rigid or made of a soft material, particularly partially flexible to support bending of the tube 25 up to a certain bending radius.

[0198] The anti-kink device 26A preferably defines or limits the bend radius of the tube 25.

[0199] Most preferably, the tube 25 comprises a minimum bending radius of less than half, preferably a quarter, in particular a fifth, of the inner diameter of the container 4, which preferably corresponds to the smallest diameter of the cross-sectional area of ​​the (cylindrical or spherical) container 4. In this way, the tube 25 can be bent sufficiently within the container 4, thus allowing for drawing off the fluid 2 in other spatial orientations than the vertical alignment, for example in a horizontal position.

[0200] Preferably, the bending radius of the tube 25 is less than 15 mm or 10 mm, preferably less than 8 mm or 6 mm, in particular less than 5 mm, and / or more than 1 mm or 2 mm.

[0201] Preferably, the inner diameter of the tube 25 is reduced by a maximum of 10% when the tube 25 is bent to its minimum bend radius. In particular, the minimum bend radius is the radius to which the tube 25 can be bent without kinking and / or reducing the inner diameter of the tube 25 by more than 10% of its initial inner diameter, i.e., the inner diameter in a fully extended / unbent state, thereby ensuring that the fluid 2 can be withdrawn from the container 4 or bag 5 even when the tube 25 is bent to its minimum bend radius.

[0202] Preferably, the tube 25 is flexible or bendable and / or adapted in length so that its free end 25B can reach the outermost area of ​​the container 4 or bag 5, i.e. the upper axial end or top of the container 4 and / or the lower axial end or bottom of the container 4, as will be further explained below.

[0203] The tube 25, the closure 7, the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26 are preferably made of rubber, in particular butyl rubber, and / or (flexible) plastics, in particular thermoplastics and / or thermoplastic elastomers such as polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene terephthalate, or polyether block amide, etc. Other suitable materials can be used as well.

[0204] Preferably, the material of the tube 25 and / or the adapter 26 is selected according to the properties of the fluid 2, in particular so that the tube 25 and / or the adapter 26 are wetted by the fluid 2, i.e. so that the surface energy of the tube 25 is greater than or equal to the surface tension of the fluid 2 and / or so that the contact angle between a droplet of fluid 2 and the surface of the tube 25 is less than 70° or 60°, preferably less than 50° or 30°, most preferably less than 20°.

[0205] For example, if fluid 2 is aqueous and / or contains an aqueous solution and / or water as a solvent and / or has a surface tension of more than 65 mN / m and / or less than 75 mN / m, then the material of tube 25 should have a surface energy of more than 75 mN / m or 80 mN / m. If fluid 2 is ethanolic and / or contains an ethanol solution and / or ethanol as a solvent and / or has a surface tension of more than 15 mN / m and / or less than 30 mN / m, then the material of tube 25 should have a surface energy of more than 30 mN / m or 35 mN / m.

[0206] Untreated polyethylene typically has a surface energy of 27 mN / m to 36 mN / m. Untreated polypropylene typically has a surface energy of 28 mN / m to 34 mN / m. The properties of these materials therefore need to be adapted to improve wettability when used with fluids 2 having higher surface tensions, such as aqueous solutions.

[0207] In order to achieve the desired properties of the tube 25, i.e. to increase its surface energy and / or wettability, the tube 25 is preferably surface treated, in particular corona, plasma, flame, wet chemically treated and / or (thin film) coated.

[0208] In particular, such surface treatments can increase the polarity of the surfaces of the tubes 25, enhancing their wettability with aqueous or polar fluids 2, such as water or ethanol.

[0209] Additionally or alternatively, the tube preferably contains at least one additive, in particular at least one primer, to increase its surface energy and / or wettability and / or polarity.

[0210] For example, the surface energy of polyethylene and polypropylene can be increased to above 40 mN / m by plasma surface treatment.

[0211] Additionally or alternatively, the fluid 2 may be modified with at least one additive, such as benzalkonium chloride, to reduce its surface tension.

[0212] Preferably, the material of the tube 25 or its free end 25B is selected so that the density of the tube 25 or its free end 25B is greater than the density of the fluid 2, in particular by more than 10%, 25% or 50% greater, to facilitate immersion of the free end 25B in the fluid 2.

[0213] For example, the fluid 2 may be aqueous and / or may contain an aqueous solution and / or water as a solvent and / or may have a density of 1 g / cm 3 and / or 1.2 g / cm 3 If the material of the tube 25 or its free end 25B has a density of less than 1.2 g / cm 3 or 1.3 g / cm 3 Fluid 2 should be ethanolic and / or contain an ethanol solution and / or ethanol as a solvent and / or have a density greater than 0.8 g / cm3 and / or 1g / cm 3 If the material of the tube 25 or its free end 25B has a density of less than 1 g / cm 3 or 1.1 g / cm 3 The density should be greater than 1.

[0214] 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge 3 connected to the holder 11 of the nebulizer 1. In this state, the connecting element 14 penetrates the seal 8 and extends into the cartridge 3, in particular into the container 4.

[0215] Preferably, the cartridge 3, in particular the connection port 9 and / or the optional adapter 26, are adapted to sealingly receive the connection element 14, preferably its axial end and / or its outer edge, so as to be able to establish a fluid connection and / or a tight connection between the cartridge 3 and the delivery mechanism 10, in particular in the manner of a press-fit / tight fit and / or (as shown in Figures 4-6).

[0216] Preferably, the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26 are flexible and / or extensible.

[0217] In particular, in the inserted state, the connection element 14 and the connection port 9 are connected in a press-fit manner.

[0218] Most preferably, the (flexible) connection port 9 is (laterally) widened by the connection element 14 such that a particularly liquid-tight and gas-tight connection or sealing S2 is formed between the connection port 9 and the connection element 14 .

[0219] Additionally or alternatively, in the inserted state, the connection element 14 and the adapter 26 are connected sealingly and / or in a press-fit manner. In particular, the (flexible) adapter 26 is (laterally) stretched by the connection element 14, preferably its axial end and / or its outer edge, such that a liquid-tight and / or gas-tight connection or sealing S3 is formed, in particular between the connection element 14, preferably its axial end and / or its outer edge, and the adapter 26.

[0220] Here, both the connection port 9 and the adapter 26 are sealingly and / or press-fit connected with the connection element 14. In other words, two sealing locations or sealings S2, S3 are established with the connection element 14: the first one between the lateral side or shell surface of the connection element 14 and the connection port 9, the second one between the axial end of the connection element 14 and the adapter 26.

[0221] Preferably, even when using connecting elements 14 of different lengths and / or when the connecting elements are moved axially, a sealed connection or sealing S2 between the connecting element 14 and the connection port 9 and / or a sealing S3 between the connecting element 14 and the adapter 26 can be established, since the connecting element 14 is laterally / radially sealingly received by and / or connected to the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26. In this way, length tolerances of the connecting element 14 can be compensated.

[0222] In the state of the cartridge 3 shown in FIG. 4, the reservoir 4 is almost empty, ie the volume of fluid 2 has been reduced so that only a few doses of fluid 2 remain.

[0223] Preferably, the cartridge 3 is adapted to be completely emptied and / or to have more than 90% or 92%, particularly more than 95% or 96%, of its initial volume of fluid 2 withdrawn by the nebulizer 1 or delivery mechanism 10, particularly through the tube 25.

[0224] Furthermore, the cartridge 3 is preferably adapted to allow the fluid 2 to be drawn from the container 4 at least essentially independent of its spatial orientation, as shown by comparing Figures 4 to 6 with one another.

[0225] Figure 5 shows the cartridge 3 connected to the delivery mechanism 10 according to Figure 4, but rotated or maintained in a horizontal position, i.e. such that the remaining fluid 2 no longer collects at the bottom or lower axial end of the container 4, but rather at its longitudinal sides due to gravity G.

[0226] Figure 6 shows the cartridge 3 connected to the delivery mechanism 10 according to Figure 4 but upside down, i.e. so that the cartridge 3 is placed on top of the delivery mechanism and / or rotated such that the remaining fluid 2 no longer collects at the bottom or lower axial end of the container 4 but rather at its top or upper axial end, i.e. at the closure 7, due to gravity G.

[0227] Preferably, the tube 25 is flexible or bendable so that its free end 25B bends (preferably) automatically towards the (remaining) fluid 2 or in accordance with gravity G and / or so that its free end 25B is kept within the (remaining) fluid 2, in particular so that fluid 2 can be drawn out at least essentially independently of the spatial orientation of the cartridge 3 and / or independently of any area of ​​the container 4, preferably independently of the outermost area of ​​the container 4, i.e. the lower end or bottom of the container 4, the longitudinal sides of the container 4 and the area at the upper end or closure 7 of the container 4.

[0228] In particular, the fluid 2 is collected at the lowest point in the container 4 by gravity G. Preferably, the free end 25B of the tube 25 is automatically located or positioned at or adjacent to the lowest point of the fluid 2 in the cartridge 3 or container 4, at least essentially, for any spatial orientation, and in particular even when rotated upside down.

[0229] Preferably, the bending of the tube 25 is achieved automatically, in particular by the self-weight / gravitational forces of the tube 25 and / or its wettability.

[0230] Preferably, the tube 25 is configured to bend, preferably due to its own weight and / or its wettability, to an angle of more than 10°, 20° or 30°, in particular at least essentially 45°, and / or to reach a longitudinal side at its free end 25B when the cartridge 3 or nebulizer 1 is rotated to a horizontal position, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0231] In particular, the tube 25 is preferably configured, due to its own weight and / or its wettability, to bend at an angle of more than 90°, 120° or 150°, in particular at least essentially 180°, and / or to reach with its free end 25B the upper end or closure 7 of the container 4 when the cartridge 3 or nebulizer 1 is rotated upside down, as shown in FIG. 6.

[0232] Optionally, the cartridge 3 includes an immersion / contact element 27, such as, for example, a weight, a sponge or an anchor, preferably the immersion element 27 is attached to or formed by the tube 25, in particular its free end 25B.

[0233] Preferably, the tube 25 and the immersion element 27 are separate parts. Nevertheless, the tube 25 and the immersion element 27 can be formed integrally. For example, the wall thickness of the free end 25B of the tube 25 can be increased compared to the adjacent wall thickness. In this way, the free end 25B of the tube 25 can form the immersion element 27.

[0234] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the immersion / contact element 27 is formed by expanding the material of the tube 25 and / or is integral with the tube 25 .

[0235] The immersion element 27 preferably weighs more than 1 mg or 3 mg, in particular more than 5 mg or 10 mg, and / or less than 500 mg or 400 mg, in particular less than 300 mg or 200 mg.

[0236] The immersion element 27 is preferably 1 mm 3 or 2mm 3 and / or 1000mm 3 Or 125mm 3 Includes volumes less than.

[0237] Preferably, the immersion element 27 is adapted to increase the gravitational force acting on the tube 25 , in particular on its free end 25 B, to bend the tube 25 according to the force of gravity G and / or the spatial orientation of the nebulizer 1 or cartridge 3 .

[0238] The tube 25 and / or the immersion element 27 preferably include an optional lateral inlet 28 such as a notch, recess or channel extending transversely / radially relative to the longitudinal extension or axial channel / inlet of the tube and / or through the wall of the tube 25 or the immersion element 27.

[0239] Preferably, the fluid 2 can be sucked laterally / radially through the lateral inlet 28 and / or through two different inlets, e.g. an axial conduit / inlet of the tube 25 and an additional lateral inlet 28, thereby preventing the tube 25 from adhering to the wall of the container 4 during withdrawal of the fluid 2 and / or the wall of the container 4 from (completely) closing off the tube 25.

[0240] In particular, the immersion element 27 may be adapted such that at least one inlet is spaced apart from the wall of the container 4, regardless of the orientation or position of the tube 25 or the immersion element 27, thereby further preventing blockage of the free end 25B.

[0241] The immersion element 27 preferably has a density greater than the fluid 2, in particular by more than 10%, 25% or 50% greater, to facilitate immersion therein.

[0242] For example, if the fluid 2 is aqueous and / or comprises an aqueous solution and / or water as a solvent and / or has a density greater than 1 g / cm3 and / or less than 1.2 g / cm3, the material of the immersion element 27 should have a density greater than 1.2 g / cm3 or 1.3 g / cm3. If the fluid 2 is ethanolic and / or comprises an ethanol solution and / or ethanol as a solvent and / or has a density greater than 0.8 g / cm3 and / or less than 1 g / cm3, the material of the immersion element 27 should have a density greater than 1 g / cm3 or 1.1 g / cm3.

[0243] In particular, when providing an immersion element 27 having a density greater than that of the fluid 2 , the tube 25 can be made of a material having a density similar to or even less than that of the fluid 2 .

[0244] The tube 25, the adapter 26 and / or the immersion element 27 are wettable and / or preferably comprise at least partially wettable, in particular hydrophilic and / or polar, surfaces. In particular, at least the free end 25B of the tube 25 comprises partially wettable, in particular hydrophilic and / or polar, surfaces. However, it is preferred that the entire surface of the tube 25 is wettable, in particular hydrophilic and / or polar.

[0245] The outer / shell and / or inner surface of the tube 25, adapter 26 and / or immersion element 27 are preferably at least partially surface treated, in particular corona, plasma or flame treated, preferably to increase their polarity and / or wettability.

[0246] Due to the hydrophilic and / or polar surfaces and / or polarity / wettability of the tube 25, adapter 26 and / or immersion element 27, the tube 25, adapter 26 and / or immersion element 27, particularly their / their surfaces, are easily wetted by the fluid 2 and / or when wetted and / or immersed in the fluid 2, the tube 25, at least its free end 25B, is maintained / pulled into the fluid 2, particularly due to the adhesive and / or cohesive forces of the fluid 2.

[0247] The wettability, in particular the hydrophilic and / or polar properties, of the tube 25 and / or the immersion element 27 help to bend the tube 25 according to the spatial orientation of the cartridge 3 or the force of gravity G, so that the tube 25, in particular its tip or free end 25B, is maintained within the fluid 2 and / or preferably fluidically connected from the fluid 2 in the cartridge 3 to the delivery mechanism 10, independently of any movement or change in spatial orientation of the cartridge 3 or the nebulizer 1. Thus, the fluid 2 can be drawn from the cartridge 3 even when the patient with the nebulizer 1 moves the nebulizer 1 during use, for example by rotating the nebulizer 1 to a horizontal position or upside down.

[0248] In particular the adhesive effect is further strengthened, since by means of the (attached) immersion element 27 the outer and / or inner surface area of ​​the tube 25 and thus the contact surface between the tube 25 and the fluid 2 is preferably increased at its free end 25B.

[0249] In a most preferred embodiment (not shown), the immersion / contact element 27 or the free end 25B of the tube 25 may be funnel- or cone-shaped. In particular, the inner and / or outer diameter of the tube 25 may preferably increase towards the free end 25B such that the tube 25 includes an enlarged contact surface at its tip.

[0250] Furthermore, the wettability, particularly the hydrophilicity and polarity, of the optional adapter 26 helps to avoid bubble formation on its inner surface. In particular, the adapter 26 is easily wetted by the fluid 2 on its inner surface such that air bubbles do not collect in the transition area between the adapter 26 and the connection port 9.

[0251] Fluid 2 is preferably a polar fluid and / or comprises a polar solvent such as water. In particular, fluid 2 or its components comprise polar molecules and / or dipole moments. This supports the wettability of tube 25 with fluid 2 and thus the interaction between the surface of tube 25 and fluid 2, as described above. Nevertheless, non-polar fluids 2 can also be used.

[0252] Preferably, the contact angle between the droplet of fluid 2 and the surface of tube 25 and / or immersion element 27 is 90° sealed or 70°, in particular less than 50° or 30°, particularly preferably 20° sealed or 5°. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the contact angle between the droplet of fluid 2 and the surface of tube 25 and / or immersion element 27 is between 0° and 2°.

[0253] Optionally, the container 4 is less wettable than the tube 25 and / or comprises at least partially hydrophobic and / or apolar (internal) surfaces or layers. According to such an embodiment, the container 4, in particular its (internal) surfaces or layers, can be coated with and / or manufactured from a hydrophobic and / or apolar material. In this way, less fluid 2 adheres to the (internal) surfaces or layers of the container 4, since the wettability of the container 4 is reduced. Thus, in a synergistic manner, the hydrophilic and / or polar tube 25 and the hydrophobic and / or apolar container 4 facilitate an increase in the volume of fluid 2 that can be withdrawn from the cartridge 3.

[0254] For example, the container 4 could be made of or coated with polytetrafluoroethylene or a wax such as paraffin wax, or the like.

[0255] Preferably, the contact angle between the drop of fluid 2 and the surface of the container 4 is greater than 70° or 90°, in particular greater than 100° or 110°, particularly preferably greater than 130° or 140°.

[0256] 7 shows the tube 25 with the funnel- and / or cone-shaped adapter 26 moved away from the connection port 9, illustrating the assembled state of the cartridge 3 before the tube 25 is pushed over the connection port 9 to establish a liquid- and / or air-tight connection or sealing S4 between both parts, as described above. The funnel- and / or cone-shaped shape of the tube 25 / adapter 26 allows the tube 25 to be sealingly connected to the connection element 14 together with the connection port 9.

[0257] In the following, further embodiments of the invention will be described, emphasizing only the relevant differences or additional aspects, which may preferably be applied additionally or similarly and which provide similar, if not repeated, features and advantages.

[0258] Figure 8 shows a cartridge 3 according to a second embodiment of the invention. Figure 9 shows a schematic detail view of the cartridge 3 in the region of the fixed end 25A of the tube 25.

[0259] As mentioned above, the cartridge 3, and in particular the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26, are adapted to compensate for length tolerances of the connection elements 14 and / or to sealingly receive connection elements 14 of different lengths.

[0260] According to the second embodiment, the cartridge 3 preferably includes an intermediate part 29 for fluidly connecting the tube 25 to the connecting element 14 (not shown in Figures 8 and 9), and preferably, the length tolerance of the connecting element 14 can be compensated by the intermediate part 29, in particular by moving the intermediate part 29 axially, as described below.

[0261] The intermediate piece 29 is preferably disposed at the fixed end 25A of the tube 25 and / or within the adapter 26.

[0262] In the embodiment shown in Figures 8 and 9, the adapter 26 and the tube 25 are two separate parts. However, as described in connection with the first embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 7, the adapter 26 and the tube 25 may be integrally formed.

[0263] Preferably, the intermediate piece 29 forms and / or is configured as a transition / connection from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14. In particular, the intermediate piece 29 is adapted to reduce flow losses at the transition from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14.

[0264] Most preferably, the intermediate piece 29 forms a (capillary) transition from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14 in such a way that a continuous capillary is formed by, inter alia, the connecting element 14, the tube 25 and the intermediate piece 29, i.e. without an enlarged flow area resulting in a capillary stop and / or a capillary interruption. In this way, the fluid 2 can be drawn all the way to the connecting element 14 by capillary action and / or without any capillary stop.

[0265] The flow area, in particular the (smallest) inner diameter, of the intermediate part 29 is equal to and / or at least essentially corresponds to the flow area, in particular the (smallest) inner diameter, of the tube 25 and the connecting element 14, in particular so as to form a continuous transition from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14 and / or to prevent the formation of bubbles at the transition.

[0266] Preferably, the intermediate piece 29 is adapted to reduce / minimize the widening of the flow area and / or to avoid any dead volume at the transition from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14 .

[0267] Preferably, the (widest / maximum) flow area from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14, in particular at the transition from the tube 25 to the intermediate piece 29 and / or from the intermediate piece 29 to the connecting element 14, is at least essentially equal to and / or equal to or not higher than 120% of the (minimum or maximum) flow area of ​​the connecting element 14, the tube 25 and / or the intermediate piece 29.

[0268] Preferably, the (widest / largest) flow area at the transition from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14, in particular from the tube 25 to the intermediate piece 29 and / or from the intermediate piece 29 to the connecting element 14, is less than 1 mm 2 Less than or equal to 0.30 mm 2 It is.

[0269] Most preferably, the intermediate part 29 and the tube 25 and / or the intermediate part 29 and the connecting element 14 are (sealingly) insertable into one another. In the embodiment shown in Figures 8 and 9, the intermediate part 29 is preferably insertable into the tube 25. However, the tube 25 can also be insertable into the intermediate part 29.

[0270] Preferably, the intermediate part 29 is configured as a piston or plunger and / or includes or forms a stop 29A, which is preferably insertable into the tube 25 until the stop 29A rests against an axial end, in particular a front face, of the tube 25.

[0271] Preferably, at least one of the tube 25 and the intermediate piece 29 is flexible / deformable / stretchable, particularly when connecting the tube 25 to the intermediate piece 29, such that a transition is formed having at least an essentially constant flow area, as shown most clearly in FIG. 9.

[0272] Preferably, the intermediate part 29 is rigid and the tube 25 is flexible, in particular extensible, so that when the intermediate part 29 is inserted into the tube 25, the tube 25 stretches.

[0273] Preferably, the intermediate part 29 comprises a (flat) contact surface 29 B for the connecting element 14 , in particular the contact surface 29 B being arranged opposite the tube 25 .

[0274] When the connecting element 14 is inserted into the connection port 9, the connecting element 14 preferably abuts axially against the intermediate part 29, in particular its contact surface 29B, such that the connecting element 14, in particular its axial end, is positioned flush with and / or forms a sealed connection with the intermediate part 29, in particular its contact surface 29B. However, other solutions are possible as well. In particular, the intermediate part 29 and the connecting element 14 can be (sealingly) insertable into each other as described above with respect to the tube 25.

[0275] The intermediate piece 29 is preferably adapted to compensate for length tolerances of the connecting element 14. In particular, the intermediate piece 29 is axially movable relative to the tube 25 in order to compensate for length tolerances of the connecting element 14.

[0276] In the shipped state, the intermediate piece 29 is preferably only partially inserted into the tube 25, in particular so that the intermediate piece 29 can be pushed further into or pressed onto the tube 25, as shown in Figures 8 and 9.

[0277] The delivery state is to be understood as the state of the cartridge 3 before it is inserted into the nebulizer 1 .

[0278] Preferably, when inserting the connecting element 14 into the connection port 9, the connecting element 14 hits the intermediate part 29, in particular its contact surface 29B, and / or pushes / moves the intermediate part 29 (further) into or onto the tube 25, depending on the axial length of the connecting element 14. In this way, it is possible to compensate for variations in the length of the connecting element 14 and / or to provide a sealed connection between the connecting element 14 and the tube 25 independently of variations in the length of the connecting element 14.

[0279] The present invention enables, supports or ensures that the connection element 14 is sealingly connected to the tube 25 at its axial end, in particular through the intermediate part 29 and / or independently of possible length variations of the different connection elements 14.

[0280] Furthermore, the connecting element 14 and the tube 25 form or include a continuous capillary and / or include an at least essentially constant flow area, particularly through the intermediate piece 29. In particular, voids, gaps and / or (abrupt) widening of the flow area at the transition from the tube 25 to the connecting element 14, which may trap bubbles and / or cause capillary action arrest, is minimized or prevented so that a continuous capillary transition is formed.

[0281] Figure 10 shows a cartridge 3 according to a third embodiment of the invention. Figure 11 shows a schematic detail of the cartridge 3 according to Figure 10 in the region of the fixed end 25A of the tube 25. Figure 12 shows a schematic detail similar to Figure 11, but with the cartridge 3 and / or the tube 25 and / or the free end 25B in a different spatial orientation.

[0282] In the third embodiment, the immersion element 27 is preferably arranged around the tube 25 and / or surrounds or covers the tube 25 .

[0283] Preferably, the tube 25 is not surrounded or covered by the immersion element 27 along its entire length. In particular, the tube 25 comprises a portion 25C that is not surrounded or covered by or does not include the immersion element 27 and another portion 25D that is surrounded or covered by or includes the immersion element 27.

[0284] Part 25D preferably comprises or is adjacent to the free end 25B of tube 25. Part 25C preferably comprises or is adjacent to the fixed end 25A of tube 25. However, other solutions are also possible, for example whereby immersion element 27 is positioned in a central portion of tube 25. Solutions whereby several immersion elements 27 are distributed along the entire length of tube 25 or along parts thereof are also possible.

[0285] In Figure 10, the immersion element 27 preferably has a conical shape and / or tapers towards the free end 25B of the tube 25. However, other shapes are also possible, such as, for example, an at least essentially cylindrical shape.

[0286] Figure 10 shows the cartridge 3 in a similar position to Figure 5, but in a rotated or horizontal position, i.e. connected to the delivery mechanism 10 such that the remaining fluid 2 no longer collects at the bottom or lower axial end of the container 4, but rather at its longitudinal sides due to gravity G. However, the preferred normal working position of the cartridge 3 and / or nebulizer 1 according to the third embodiment is a position in which the remaining fluid 2 collects at the bottom or lower axial end of the container 4, as in the above-mentioned embodiments (not shown).

[0287] In the normal operating position, the tube 25 extends at least essentially straight and / or without (significant) bending, with the free end 25B positioned near the bottom of the container 4 so that it is submerged in fluid even when the container 4 is nearly empty.

[0288] When tilted, tube 25 preferably bends such that free end 25 B remains immersed in fluid 2 .

[0289] In particular, only the portion 25C of the tube 25 that is not surrounded by the immersion element 27 and / or that is not adjacent to the fixed end 25A is bent and / or pliable. The portion 25D of the tube 25 that is surrounded by the immersion element 27 is preferably unbending and / or rigid or not pliable and / or is prevented from bending by the immersion element 27. This is illustrated in Figure 10 which shows the cartridge 3 in a horizontal position, where the surrounded portion 25D is unbending and the other portion 25C is bending due to gravity G and / or the wettability of the tube 25 and / or the immersion element 27.

[0290] Preferably, the immersion element 27 of the third embodiment has similar properties to the immersion element 27 described in relation to the first embodiment, in particular being wetted by fluid 2 and / or having a higher surface tension than fluid 2 and / or having a higher density than fluid 2 such that the free end 25B remains immersed in fluid 2.

[0291] Preferably, the surface of the immersion element 27 is hydrophilic and / or polar and / or has a higher surface tension than the fluid 2, thereby ensuring that in conjunction with the preferably hydrophobic and / or non-polar inner surfaces of the container 4 and / or bag 5, the immersion element 27 and said inner surfaces do not come into direct contact with each other and / or do not adhere to each other.

[0292] In particular, the immersion element 27 may be surface treated, for example to achieve hydrophilic properties, as described above in relation to the first embodiment.

[0293] Preferably, the immersion element 27 is made of plastic, in particular of a plastic material having a density higher than water, such as polytetrafluoroethylene or silicone, but the immersion element 27 can also be made of other materials, such as, for example, metal or ceramic.

[0294] The length of the immersion element 27 and / or the portion 25D surrounded by the immersion element 27 is preferably greater, in particular more than twice and / or less than ten times, than the length of the portion 25C not surrounded by the immersion element 27. The immersion element 27 preferably covers or surrounds more than 60% and / or less than 90% of the tube 25.

[0295] Preferably, the length of the immersion element 27 exceeds the diameter of the cartridge 3 .

[0296] The wall thickness of the tube 25 or of the bendable portion 25C is preferably selected to be thin enough to allow sufficient bending of the bendable portion 25C. Preferably, the wall thickness is less than 0.2 mm, in particular less than 0.15 mm, particularly preferably less than 0.12, and / or more than 0.05 mm, in particular more than 0.08 mm.

[0297] The weight of the immersion element 27 according to the third embodiment is preferably such that the desired bending properties of the tube 25 are achieved. In particular, the weight of the immersion element 27 depends on the length of the immersion element 27 or the corresponding tube portions 25C, 25D and / or the wall thickness of the tube 25.

[0298] In particular, the thicker the wall of the tube 25 and / or the shorter the bendable tube section 25C, the heavier the immersion element 27 must be to achieve the same bending characteristics.

[0299] The immersion element 27 according to the third embodiment preferably weighs more than 0.5 g, in particular more than 0.8 g, and / or less than 1.5 g, in particular less than 1.2 g, particularly preferably at least essentially 1 g, in order to allow sufficient bending of the tube 25 having the above-mentioned preferred wall thickness and / or length of the tube portion 25C.

[0300] The immersion element 27 and the tube 25 are preferably connected in a tight-fitting manner, in particular so that no air or fluid 2 is trapped between the tube 25 and the immersion element 27 .

[0301] The tube 25 and the immersion element 27 are preferably formed as separate parts, in particular made of different materials, but can be formed integrally or as one piece.

[0302] Tube 25 or immersion element 27 preferably includes a valve 30, which is opened or closed depending on the spatial orientation or position of valve 30 and / or tube 25. In the example shown in Figures 10-12, valve 30 is located at or near free end 25B of tube 25. However, valve 30 could be located at fixed end 25A or anywhere in between.

[0303] The valve 30 is preferably configured to be open in a normal operating or upright position of the cartridge 3 and / or valve 30 and / or when the tube 25 is in at least an essentially unbent position. Preferably, the valve 30 remains open when the cartridge 3 and / or valve 30 is tilted or rotated to a horizontal position and / or any position between the upright and horizontal positions.

[0304] The valve 30 is preferably configured to close when the cartridge 3 and / or the valve 30 is in an upside down position or an inclined position between the horizontal position and the upside down position, and / or when it cannot be guaranteed that the free end 25B of the tube 25 is immersed in the fluid 2.

[0305] For example, if the tube 25 and / or the immersion element 27 are adapted such that the tube portion 25D, which is rigid and / or not (sufficiently) bendable, exceeds the inner diameter of the container 4, the tube 25 or its bendable portion 25C cannot bend 90°, 120°, 150° or more because the container wall limits such movement. The same applies to a very thin container 4, which has a small diameter compared to its longitudinal extension. In this case, the length of the tube 25 is much larger than the diameter of the container 4, so that in an upside-down position the tube 25 can adhere to the container wall. When a flexible tube 25 is used with a crushable bag 5, it can also happen that the tube 25 gets stuck or gets stuck in the folds of the bag.

[0306] If the configuration of the cartridge 3 makes it a priori impossible for the tube 25 to bend so that its free end 25B is always immersed in the fluid 2, the valve 30 can be located anywhere on the tube, in particular at its free end 25B or at the fixed end 25A, or even in the adapter 26, the connection port 9 or the closure 7. An example is when the rigid tube section 25D exceeds the inner diameter of the container 4.

[0307] However, in the case where the cartridge 3 is constructed such that the tube 25 can in principle reach any point in the container 4, the valve 30 is preferably arranged at or near the free end 25B. In this way, it is ensured that the opening and closing of the valve 30 does not depend on the orientation of the cartridge 3, but only on the orientation of the free end 25B. For example, in Figs. 4-6 the cartridge 3 is shown in different spatial orientations, but the free end 25B of the tube 25 always points in the direction of gravity G, i.e. in the same spatial orientation in all three cases. In this orientation, the valve 30 is preferably open. However, the valve 30 is preferably closed when the free end 25B points at least essentially against gravity G, as exemplarily shown in Fig. 12. Thereby, it is ensured that the valve 30 is preferably only open when the free end 25B is preferably immersed in the fluid 2.

[0308] In the following a preferred configuration of the valve 30 is explained in more detail, however other configurational solutions are also possible.

[0309] Valve 30 preferably includes a valve ball 30A that is free to move within a valve chamber 30B.

[0310] The valve ball 30A is preferably manufactured from a material, particularly a plastic material, having a density greater than that of the fluid 2 so that the valve wall 30A sinks into the fluid 2 due to gravity G.

[0311] The diameter of the valve ball 30A is preferably larger than the inner diameter of the free end 25B and / or the tube 25, and the valve ball 30A is adapted to close the free end 25B, particularly in an at least essentially upside-down orientation of the valve 30 and / or the free end 25B.

[0312] The walls of the valve chamber 30B are preferably formed by an immersion element 27.

[0313] Preferably, tube 25 or its free end 25B is fluidly connected to valve chamber 30B.

[0314] The walls of the valve chamber 30B preferably include openings or inlets, specifically inlets at the axial ends thereof and lateral inlets 28 in the side walls. The diameter of the inlets is preferably smaller than the diameter of the valve ball 30A so that the valve ball 30A cannot escape the valve chamber 30B.

[0315] Preferably, the openings of valve chamber 30B are positioned such that not all of the inlets are simultaneously blocked off by valve ball 30A, thereby ensuring that at least one inlet remains open regardless of the spatial orientation of valve 30.

[0316] Alternatively, the valve chamber 30B is at least essentially cage-like, in particular the walls of the valve chamber 30B are preferably grid-like on all sides, and the valve ball 30A is trapped within said cage-like valve chamber 30B, thereby preferably ensuring that the valve chamber 30B is filled with the fluid 2 when immersed.

[0317] 12 shows the valve 30 in an upside-down position, i.e. in a position in which the free end 25B of the tube 25 faces against gravity G and / or is not necessarily immersed in the fluid 2. In this case, the valve ball 30A preferably rests on the free end 25B and thus closes the inlet of that end 25B, i.e. the tube 25. In particular, the seating of the valve ball 30A on the free end 25B prevents air from entering the tube 25.

[0318] Figures 13 to 18 show a cartridge 3 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. These figures show the cartridge 3 in a schematic view with one side of the container 4 removed so that the inside of the container 4 is visible.

[0319] In a fourth embodiment of the invention, the tube 25 is preferably shaped at least essentially or partly as a spiral, in particular as a cylindrical spiral as shown in Figures 13 to 15, or as a conical spiral as shown in Figures 17 and 18. However, other spiral shapes for the tube 25 are also possible, for example a double conical shape, as shown in Figure 16, which has an X-shaped cross section and in which the diameter of the spiral first decreases and then increases again.

[0320] Preferably, the tube 25 has otherwise the same or similar properties as the tube 25 described in connection with the above embodiments, in particular the tube 25 is at least essentially flexible and / or wettable and / or has a constant inner diameter. The tube 25 may also include an immersion element 27.

[0321] The spiral and / or tube 25 is preferably adapted so that the free end 25B is always immersed in the fluid 2, in particular so that the free end 25B is positioned close to the fluid level.

[0322] In particular, the helix may be compressible and / or extensible, and / or the height of a complete helical turn, measured parallel to the axis of the helix, also called the pitch of the helix, may be varied, and thus the axial length of the helix may be adaptive, in particular by varying the pitch, thereby stretching and / or compressing the helix.

[0323] Preferably, the portion of the spiral immersed in fluid 2 is at least essentially compressed as far as possible, and / or the pitch of the immersed spiral portion is at least essentially zero, and / or the spiral portion immersed in fluid 2 is at least essentially flat, particularly if no immersion element 27 is provided.

[0324] Compression of the immersed spiral portion is preferably achieved by the buoyant force exerted by fluid 2 on the portion of spiral or tube 25 immersed in fluid 2 as described above, thus pushing that portion upwards. However, spiral or tube 25 is adapted to be (slightly) immersed rather than floating in fluid 2 such that the free end 25B of tube 25 is positioned below, but preferably close to, the fluid level.

[0325] Preferably, the pitch of the helix is ​​at least essentially constant over the length of the helix part that is not immersed in the fluid 2. The part of the helix that is immersed in the fluid 2 preferably also has a constant pitch, which may be different and in particular smaller than the pitch of the helix part that is not immersed in the fluid 2. Thus, preferably, the pitch varies with the fluid level. However, other solutions are possible, either with a constant pitch over the entire length of the helix or with a pitch that varies over the entire length of the helix, for example with an increasing or decreasing pitch from the fixed end 25A to the free end 25B.

[0326] Particularly preferably, the axial length of the spiral is dependent on or adjusted to the height of the fluid level and / or filling level of fluid 2 in the container 4. Figure 14 shows an example with a higher fluid level and / or more fluid 2 contained in the container 4. In this case the spiral, in particular the spiral part not immersed in fluid 2, will be more compressed and / or have a smaller pitch than for a lower fluid level and / or less fluid 2 in the container 4 as shown in Figure 13.

[0327] In particular, when the immersion element 27 is provided at or near the free end 25B, the spiral, tube 25 and / or free end 25B are immersed deeper and / or are not located near the fluid level and / or are positioned closer to the bottom of the container 4 in an upright position than they would be in the absence of the immersion element 27. This is shown in FIG.

[0328] The deeper immersion of the spiral, tube 25 and / or free end 25B is preferably due to the additional weight of the immersion element 27 counteracting the buoyancy force of the fluid 2.

[0329] Particularly preferably, the shape and / or weight of the immersion element 27 is such as to achieve a desired immersion depth of the spiral, the tube 25 and / or the free end 25B. In particular, the greater the weight and / or the smaller the volume of the immersion element 27, the greater the immersion depth.

[0330] Particularly preferably, the tube 25 has the shape of a conical helix, i.e. a helix whose diameter, measured perpendicular to the axis of the helix, decreases or increases constantly along its axis. In particular, the inside of the helix is ​​conical in shape and / or the tube 25 has a shape as if it were wrapped around a cone. This preferred conical shape of the helix is ​​shown in Figures 17 and 18.

[0331] Preferably, the conical helix has fewer turns or number of turns than the cylindrical helix, particularly preferably about half the number of turns or number of turns.

[0332] Preferably, the spiral has a smallest diameter at the fixed end 25A and a largest diameter at the free end 25B and / or tapers from the free end 25B towards the fixed end 25A. However, it is also possible for the spiral to taper towards the free end 25B and / or have a smallest diameter at the free end 25B and a largest diameter at the fixed end 25A.

[0333] Other solutions in which the diameter is not constant, in which the maximum and / or minimum diameter is neither at the free end 25B nor at the fixed end 25A, are also possible here, such as, for example, a double cone shape as shown in FIG. 16, which takes its minimum diameter at least essentially halfway along the length of the spiral or tube 25.

[0334] The diameter of the spiral at its widest point is preferably at least 5% or 10% smaller than the diameter of the container 4 .

[0335] The helix or tube 25 is preferably compressible into an at least essentially two-dimensional or flat spiral. This is particularly achieved by the preferred conical shape which allows the helix or tube 25 to become an at least essentially two-dimensional or flat spiral at maximum compression. In contrast, at maximum compression of a cylindrical helix, the tube walls collide with one another so that the shape remains cylindrical and therefore three-dimensional or non-flat.

[0336] Preferably, the spiral and / or tube 25 is such that the free end 25B is always immersed in the fluid 2, even when the cartridge 3 is not in an upright position.

[0337] In particular, the spiral or tube 25 may be bendable, for example in a horizontal position of the cartridge 3 or container 4, and / or may bend towards the fluid 2, as described above for the previous embodiments.

[0338] In addition to this, the compressibility of the helix or tube 25 allows it to adapt its length so that the free end 25B remains immersed in the fluid 2. This preferably prevents the helix or tube 25 from adhering to the walls of the container 4 or bag 5 and / or contributes to keeping the free end 25B immersed in the fluid 2 in tilted positions of the cartridge 3 or container 4.

[0339] The helix or tube 25 is preferably such that its windings do not adhere to each other when the cartridge 3 or container 4 is in a tilted position and / or when the helix or tube 25 is curved. In particular in the case of a helix shape having a maximum diameter at or near the free end 25B, such as the preferred conical shape, the free end 25B can more easily adapt to the position or level of the fluid 2. This is because the free end 25B is preferably spaced apart from other parts of the tube 25, so that, for example, the helix is ​​prevented from becoming trapped by the next winding.

[0340] Particularly preferably, the helix is ​​compressible and / or invertible due to gravity G and / or the wettability of the tube 25 when the cartridge 3 is in an at least essentially upside down position. This is shown in Figure 18 for a preferred conical shape.

[0341] In the case of a non-conical shape, when rotated upside down, the helix or tube 25 is or becomes maximally compressed and / or the pitch of the helix is ​​as small as possible, in particular at least essentially zero (not shown).

[0342] 18, when rotated upside down, the helix or tube 25 reverses or flips and / or the tube 25 has a helical shape but in the opposite direction, spiraling or extending from the fixed end 25A towards the top of the closure 7 or cartridge 3 or container 4. In this case, the pitch of the helix may be different from the pitch in the upright position, but may be the same.

[0343] Preferably, in the upside down position, the spiral and / or tube 25 spirals around the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26 .

[0344] In the upside down position, the free end 25B is preferably located near the top or upper axial end or closure 7 of the cartridge 3. In this way, it is ensured that the free end 25B remains immersed in the fluid 2 at all times.

[0345] Preferably, the spiral or tube 25 is at least partially reversed or inverted in positions of the cartridge 3 between the horizontal and upside-down positions, thereby ensuring that the free end 25B remains immersed in the fluid 2 in these positions.

[0346] In general, the free end 25 B of the tube 25 may always form at least essentially the lowest point of the tube 25 independent of the orientation of the cartridge 3 .

[0347] FIG. 19 shows a cartridge 3 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0348] According to the fifth embodiment, the cartridge 3 preferably comprises a movable element or piston 35. In particular, the piston 35 is movable axially and / or within the container 4.

[0349] According to the fifth embodiment, the container 4 preferably has an opening at its bottom or lower axial end, which opening is closed off by a piston 35 .

[0350] In particular, in the shipped condition and / or before any fluid 2 has been withdrawn from the cartridge 3 or container 4, the piston 35 is in an initial (lower) position. Preferably, in the initial position, the piston 35 is located adjacent to or at the base or axial end of the container 4 opposite the closure 7. The volume defined by the container 4, the closure 7 and the piston 35 in the initial position is preferably at or defines the maximum fill volume of the container 4.

[0351] Preferably, the container 4 or the piston 35 has a piston seal 36 for acting between the piston 35 and the inner wall of the container 4, in particular for sealing the piston 35 against the interior of the container 4 in a liquid-tight and / or gas-tight manner. The piston seal 36 can be formed as a ring or a lip and / or be maintained by the piston 35. However, other constructional solutions are possible as well.

[0352] When withdrawing the fluid 2, the piston 35 preferably moves axially towards the closure 7, upwards in the depiction of Figure 19. In particular, Figure 19 shows the cartridge 3 in a state where some fluid 2 has already been withdrawn from the cartridge 3 and / or where the piston 35 has already moved upwards.

[0353] Preferably, the cartridge 3 according to the fifth embodiment does not include or require a vent / ventilation section 6. In this case, drawing fluid 2 from the cartridge 3 creates an underpressure in the container 4 and thus a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the container 4. This pressure difference preferably moves the piston 35, in particular such that the volume defined by the closure 7, the container 4 and the piston 35 decreases. The piston 35 therefore preferably moves towards the closure 7 until pressure compensation of the pressure inside and outside the container 4 is achieved.

[0354] In particular, the piston 35 assumes a new axial position within the vessel 4 and remains in this new axial position until further fluid 2 is withdrawn.

[0355] Preferably, the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26 do not extend too far inside the container 4 such that the piston 35 can move at least essentially completely to the closure 7 and / or at least essentially the entire length of the container 4. In particular, the volume defined by the closure 7, the container 4 and the piston 35 can be reduced to at least essentially zero such that substantially all of the fluid 2 can be withdrawn from the cartridge 3.

[0356] Particularly preferably, the cartridge 3 according to the fifth embodiment further comprises a tube 25. In particular, the fixed end 25A of the tube 25 is located near the top or upper axial end of the container 4 and accordingly the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26 do not extend deep inside the container 4.

[0357] The free end 25B of the tube 25 is preferably fixed or attached to the piston 35. In particular, the tube 25 is fastened to the piston 35 at or near the free end 25B by a fastener 37, e.g. a bracket or a clamp. However, other solutions are also possible, e.g. gluing the tube 25 to the piston 35.

[0358] Preferably, tube 25 is funnel- or cone-shaped at or near its free end 25B. In particular, the outer diameter of tube 25 may increase towards free end 25B.

[0359] Fastener 37 is preferably provided on a portion of tube 25 having a constant outer diameter. In this manner, tube 25 is attached to piston 35 in a form-fitting manner using fastener 37, since free end 25B, having a larger outer diameter, cannot be removed from fastener 37.

[0360] Preferably, the tube 25 is attached to the piston 35 such that its free end 25B is at least essentially parallel to and / or close to the face of the piston 35 facing the closure 7.

[0361] In particular, the free end 25B is always located at the bottom or lower axial end of the volume containing the fluid 2 and / or from which the fluid 2 is always drawn. This is particularly advantageous when the fluid 2 is drawn from the cartridge 3 in an upright position.

[0362] Particularly preferably, the tube 25 has a helical shape as described in connection with the fourth embodiment, particularly preferably a conical helix shape.

[0363] As already explained in relation to the fourth embodiment, the helix is ​​preferably compressible, and the conical helix is ​​particularly preferably capable of becoming or forming an at least essentially flat or two-dimensional spiral when maximally compressed.

[0364] The compressibility of the helix or tube 25 is particularly useful in connection with the movable piston 35. When the piston 35 moves towards the closure 7, the helix or tube 25 is preferably increasingly compressed. The axial length of the helix or tube 25 is therefore adjustable or adjusts, in particular by itself, to the distance between the closure 7 and the piston 35 and / or to the axial length of the volume containing the fluid 2. Thereby, it is ensured that the piston 35 can move in the container 4 without being blocked or impeded by the tube 25 before reaching an end position.

[0365] The piston 35 preferably assumes its end position when the helix or tube 25 is maximally compressed. In that case, further movement of the piston 35 is blocked by the helix or tube 25 and / or no more fluid 2 can be drawn from the container 4. In this regard, a conical helix is ​​particularly advantageous since when maximally compressed it becomes at least essentially a flat spiral and therefore occupies a minimum of axial space within the container 4. Thus, in a cartridge 3 having a conical helix, the piston 35 can move at least essentially along the entire axial length of the container 4 and / or at least essentially all of the fluid 2 can be drawn from the cartridge 3.

[0366] FIG. 20 shows a cartridge 3 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

[0367] According to the sixth embodiment, the cartridge 3 comprises a preferably flexible / collapsible bag 5 containing the fluid 2, preferably the bag 5 being placed or maintained within the container 4 as described above with respect to Figures 1 and 2, and further comprising a flexible / bendable tube 25.

[0368] Preferably, the vent / air 6 is arranged at the bottom or lower axial end of the container 4. In this way, it is ensured that the collapsible bag 5 leaves the container 4 starting from its lower axial end and / or collapses from its lower axial end. In particular, the vent / air 6 in this case is an indirect gas connection. A sterile filter is therefore not necessary, although such a filter can be additionally provided.

[0369] The tube 25, in particular its free end 25B, preferably does not include an immersion element 27. This preferably increases the mobility of the tube 25 and / or prevents or reduces jamming or clogging of the tube 25, in particular in folds in the bag 5. However, it is also possible to provide the tube 25 with an immersion element 27, in particular preferably a surrounding immersion element 27, as described above in connection with figure 10.

[0370] Preferably, the bag 5 is less wettable than the tube 25 and / or comprises at least partially hydrophobic and / or apolar (inner) surface. In this case, the bag 5, in particular its (inner) surface, can be coated with a hydrophobic and / or apolar material and / or can be manufactured of a hydrophobic and / or apolar material. In this way, the wettability of the bag 5 is optionally reduced so that less fluid 2 adheres to the (inner) surface of the bag 5. Thus, in a synergistic manner, the hydrophilic and / or polar tube 25 and the hydrophobic and / or apolar bag 5 facilitate an increase in the volume of fluid 2 that can be withdrawn from the cartridge 3.

[0371] For example, bag 5 could be made of or coated with polytetrafluoroethylene or a wax such as paraffin wax.

[0372] Preferably, the contact angle between a drop of fluid 2 and the surface of the bag 5 is greater than 70° or 90°, in particular greater than 100° or 110°, particularly preferably greater than 130° or 140°.

[0373] Figures 21-23 show a cartridge 3 according to a seventh embodiment of the invention. Figure 21 shows the cartridge 3 with the seal 8, foil 8A and / or membrane or sealing wall 31 closed or intact and / or prior to connection to the delivery mechanism 10. Figure 22 shows the cartridge 3 with the seal 8, foil 8A and / or membrane or sealing wall 31 open or pierced when connected to the delivery mechanism 10. Figure 23 is a schematic detail of the membrane or sealing wall 31 in a closed or intact state.

[0374] The features described in connection with the seventh embodiment not directly related to the tube 25, such as the features of the membrane or sealing wall 31 or the radial sealing of the connecting element 14, can also preferably be implemented independently of the tube 25. In this case, the connecting element 14 is immersed in the fluid 2 as shown in Figures 1 and 2 while connected to the cartridge 3.

[0375] With regard to the features of the tube 25, in particular its connection with the connection element 14, the seventh embodiment is similar to the second embodiment as shown in figures 8 and 9. Therefore, only relevant differences or additional aspects will be highlighted. The above explanations, in particular related to the second embodiment, preferably apply additionally or in a similar manner and provide similar, if not repeated, features and advantages. However, other explanations, features and advantages with respect to the other embodiments, such as the wettability of the tube 25, its shape, etc., can also be achieved.

[0376] According to the seventh embodiment of the invention, the intermediate piece 29 is preferably formed integrally with the tube 25. In particular, the fixed end 25A comprises or forms the intermediate piece 29.

[0377] The fixed end 25A or the intermediate part 29 preferably comprises a contact surface 29B for the connecting element 14 and is arranged facing away from the tube 25 and / or towards the top of the cartridge 3.

[0378] Preferably, the intermediate part 29 or the fixed end 25A is axially movable relative to and / or within the closure 7, the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26. The fixed end 25A is preferably fixed only against radial movements, at least initially or in a shipping state. The shipping state is to be understood as the state before the cartridge 3 is connected or inserted into the nebulizer 1.

[0379] After the cartridge 3 is connected to the delivery mechanism 10 of the nebulizer 1, the fixed end 25A is preferably also fixed against axial movement.

[0380] In particular, according to the seventh embodiment, the adapter 26 and the tube 25 are preferably formed as two separate parts such that the entire tube 25, together with the intermediate part 29 integrally formed therewith, is preferably axially movable relative to the closure part 7, the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26.

[0381] The intermediate piece 29 , the fixed end 25 A and / or the tube 25 are preferably adapted to compensate for length tolerances of the connecting element 14 .

[0382] In the shipped state or before the cartridge 3 is connected to the delivery mechanism 10 of the nebulizer 1, the intermediate part 29, the fixed end 25A and / or the tube 25 are preferably positioned in an initial position that allows the intermediate part 29, the fixed end 25A and / or the tube 25 to be pushed further axially downward within the adapter 26 or connection port 9.

[0383] Preferably, the intermediate piece 29, the fixed end 25A and / or the tube 25 are maintained in their initial position by a (radial) press fit.

[0384] Preferably, the intermediate part 29 or fixed end 25A comprises a stop 29A, in particular on the side facing towards the tube 25 and / or away from the top of the cartridge 3. The connection port 9 or adapter 26 preferably has a corresponding support surface 26B, which limits the axial movement of the stop 29A when it hits the support surface 26B.

[0385] When the connecting element 14 is inserted and / or when the cartridge 3 is connected to the delivery mechanism 10 of the nebulizer 1, the connecting element 14 preferably contacts the intermediate part 29 or the fixed end 25A, in particular at its contact surface 29B, and / or pushes or moves the intermediate part 29, the fixed end 25A and / or the tube 25 (further) axially downwards (i.e. towards the inside of the cartridge 3) depending on the axial length of the connecting element 14.

[0386] In this way, variations in the length of the connecting element 14 can preferably be compensated for.

[0387] Fig. 22 shows the case where the tube 25 is pushed or moved to the maximum and / or where the stop 29A hits the support surface 26B, however, it is also conceivable that the tube 25 is only pushed / moved downwards partially or not at all, especially if the connecting element 14 is shorter than in the example shown in Fig. 22.

[0388] The main difference between the second and seventh embodiments with regard to the compensation of the length tolerance of the connection element 14 is that, whereas in the second embodiment the intermediate part 29 is formed as a separate part which can be plugged into the tube 25 or the like, in the seventh embodiment the intermediate part 29 is formed integrally with the tube 25, in particular with the fixed end 25A. Thus, in the seventh embodiment the intermediate part 29 is preferably not pressed / moved relative to the tube 25, but the whole tube 25 together with the intermediate part 29 is pressed / moved relative to the connection port 9 or adapter 26.

[0389] Otherwise, the features and advantages described in relation to the second embodiment are equally applicable to the seventh embodiment. Particularly preferably, the features described in relation to the second embodiment with regard to the connecting element 14 and the tube 25 forming or comprising a continuous capillary and / or at least an essentially constant flow area also apply to the cartridge 3 according to the seventh embodiment. In particular, voids or gaps in the transition from the connecting element 14 to the tube 25 or the intermediate part 29 are minimized, thereby preventing capillary action stoppages.

[0390] The following descriptions, features and advantages can preferably be implemented independently of the tube 25, i.e. they also apply to cartridges 3 in which the connecting element 14 is immersed in the fluid 2 as shown in Figures 1 and 2 and does not have the tube 25. Accordingly, the length of the connecting element 14 is preferably greater than in the case where the tube 25 is further provided.

[0391] Preferably, the cartridge 3 comprises a sealing S1 between the closure 7 and the container 4 and / or bag 5. In figures 1 to 10 this sealing S1 is shown as a sealing element 32 in the form of a sealing ring or the like, which in particular seals the cartridge 3 axially.

[0392] According to a seventh embodiment of the invention, as shown in figures 21 and 22, preferably such a sealing element 32 is arranged between the closure 7 and the container 4 and / or the bag 5 extending axially into the container 4 and can optionally project radially above the edge of the opening of the container 4. In particular, the sealing element 32 is maintained or fixed by a radial and / or axial press-fit / tight fit between the closure 7, in particular the connection port 9, and the container 4. Particularly preferably, an air-tight and / or liquid-tight connection or sealing S5 is formed between the sealing element 32 and the container 4, in particular in the radial and / or axial direction.

[0393] Preferably, the sealing element 32 is funnel-shaped and / or cone-shaped and / or is attached to the connection port 9. In particular, the adapter 26 is flexible and / or adapted to sealingly receive the connection port 9 and / or the connection element 14, in particular its axial end, most preferably in the manner of a press-fit / tight fit. Particularly preferably, a seal S4 is formed between the connection port 9 and the sealing element 32.

[0394] Preferably, the closure 7 comprises a sealing element 32 .

[0395] The sealing element 32 is preferably made of rubber, in particular nitrile rubber, butadiene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, isoprene rubber, styrene-isoprene rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, and / or of (flexible) plastics, in particular thermoplastics and / or thermoplastic elastomers, such as polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, polybutylene terephthalate, or polyether block amide. Other suitable materials can be used as well.

[0396] Preferably, the cartridge 3, in particular the connection port 9 and / or the sealing element 32, are adapted to sealingly receive the connection element 14, preferably its axial end and / or its outer edge, in order to be able to establish a fluid connection and / or a tight connection between the cartridge 3 and the delivery mechanism 10, in particular in the manner of a press fit / tight fit.

[0397] In particular, the cartridge 3 has or forms a preferably cylindrical insertion opening for the connecting element 14, preferably with an at least essentially constant diameter corresponding to the diameter of the connecting element 14. Preferably, the opening is formed by a closure 7, a connection port 9 and / or a sealing element 32. The opening may be initially covered or closed by a seal 8, in particular a foil 8A and / or a membrane or sealing wall 31, the seal 8 being adapted to be broken or penetrated by the connecting element 14.

[0398] Preferably, the connection port 9 and / or the sealing element 32 are flexible and / or extensible.

[0399] In particular, in the inserted state, the connection element 14 and the connection port 9 are connected in a press-fit manner.

[0400] Most preferably, the connection port 9 is (laterally) widened by the connection element 14 such that a particularly liquid-tight and / or gas-tight connection or sealing S2 is formed between the connection port 9 and the connection element 14 .

[0401] Additionally or alternatively, in the inserted state, the connecting element 14 and the sealing element 32 are connected sealingly and / or in a press-fit manner. In particular, the (flexible) sealing element 32 is (laterally) stretched by the connecting element 14, preferably its axial end and / or its outer edge, such that a liquid-tight and / or gas-tight connection or sealing S3 is formed, in particular between the connecting element 14, preferably its axial end and / or its outer edge, and the sealing element 32.

[0402] Preferably, the connection element 14 or its axial end must pass through the connection port 9 and, in particular, be sealingly received by the sealing element 32 and / or form a sealing S3 after breaking or penetrating the membrane or sealing wall 31, if provided.

[0403] Here, both the connection port 9 and the sealing element 32 are sealingly and / or press-fit connected with the connection element 14. In other words, two sealing locations or sealings S2, S3 are established with the connection element 14: the first one between the side or shell face of the connection element 14 and the connection port 9, the second one between the axial end of the connection element 14 and the sealing element 32.

[0404] Preferably, in this case, the connection element 14, when inserted or received, first forms or establishes a seal S2 with the connection port 9, and after penetrating the connection port 9, forms or establishes a seal S3 with the sealing element 32.

[0405] Particularly preferably, the connection element 14 is radially sealed by or sealingly connected to the sealing element 32 and / or the connection port 9. Such a (radial) sealing S2, S3 between the connection element 14 and the connection port 9 or the sealing element 32, respectively, is shown in Fig. 22. In particular, the sealing S2 and / or S3 is achieved or formed by a press-fit / tight fit of the connection element 14 with the connection port 9 and / or the sealing element 32.

[0406] In particular, the connection port 9 and / or the sealing element 32 are at least partially flexible, deformable and / or stretchable and have a portion with a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the connection element 14. Upon insertion of the connection element 14, this portion can bend / deform / stretch such that a seal S2 and / or S3 is formed at that portion between the connection element 14 and the connection port 9 and / or the sealing element 32, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, the connection element 14 can be (radially) flexible or deformable.

[0407] Particularly preferably, the connection element 14 stretches / deforms the connection port 9 and / or the sealing element 32 when inserted to further increase the force exerted on the sealing element 32 and / or the press-fit / tight fit of the connection port 9, the sealing element 32, and / or the container 4.

[0408] Preferably, even when the connecting element is moved axially, the sealing S2 between the connecting element 14 and the connection port 9 and / or the sealing S3 between the connecting element 14 and the sealing element 32 can be established, since the connecting element 14 is laterally / radially sealingly received by and / or connected to the connection port 9 and / or the sealing element 32. In this way, the sealings S2, S3 are also provided during insertion of the connecting element 14 and / or while connecting the cartridge 3 to the delivery mechanism 10 of the nebulizer 1, in particular so that the fluid 2 can only exit the cartridge 3 through the connecting element 9.

[0409] The sealing S2 is preferably formed or established at the connection port 9 at least essentially at the level at which, in the delivery state, the membrane or sealing wall 31 is located. In other words, when the connection element 14 is inserted into the connection port 9, the seal formed by the membrane or sealing wall 31 is preferably replaced by the sealing S2.

[0410] Figure 22 shows yet another sealing S6, which is preferably formed or established after inserting the cartridge 3 into the nebulizer 1. In particular, the sealing S6, if provided, is located above the sealing S2 and / or near the top of the closure 7. The sealing S6 can be formed between the closure 7 / connection port 9 and the connection element 14, or between the closure 7 / connection port 9 and a part of the holder 11 of the nebulizer 1 as shown in Figure 22.

[0411] The sealing element 32 preferably forms or includes the adapter 26 in the case of a cartridge 3 including a tube 25. In particular, the descriptions, features and advantages described in the various embodiments with respect to the adapter 26 and with respect to the sealing element 32 are mutually applicable when a tube 25 is provided.

[0412] Preferably, the connecting element 14 is (further) sealingly connected at its axial end to the tube 25, in particular to the fixed end 25A or to the intermediate piece 29, as described above in connection with the second embodiment. However, such sealing can be omitted when providing sealings S2 and / or S3.

[0413] Preferably, the connection port 9 and the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 are connected to one another by a press fit / tight fit, in particular forming a seal S4 between them. However, other solutions are also possible here, for example the connection port 9 and the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 being formed integrally or as one piece. Alternatively, the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 can be connected to or maintained in the container 4, with the connection port 9 on or in the adapter 26 / sealing element 32.

[0414] Particularly preferably, the connection port 9 and the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 are connected or assembled before being mounted on the container 4, in particular by a press fit / tight fit.

[0415] The tube 25 can be integrated with and / or form a unit with the connection port 9 or the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 when mounted on the container 4. Alternatively, the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 are first mounted on the container 4 and then the tube 25 is inserted into the container 4, in particular from the top.

[0416] In the following, the membrane or sealing wall 31, which is preferably contained in the cartridge 3, will be described in more detail.

[0417] The membrane or sealing wall 31 is preferably embodied as a diaphragm or septum. Preferably, the membrane or sealing wall 31 is integrated into and / or arranged in the closure 7 or the connection port 9, particularly preferably on the end face of the closure 7 or the connection port 9 that faces towards the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 or the tube 25 and / or that faces away from the top of the cartridge 3.

[0418] Alternatively, the membrane or sealing wall 31 can also be integrated into, located in and / or connected to the adapter 26 / sealing element 32. It is also possible to provide more than one membrane sealing wall 31, for example one located at the connection port 9 and one located at the adapter 26 / sealing element 32.

[0419] In the following description, it is assumed that the membrane or sealing wall 31 is located at the connection port 9. However, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, the features described can be similarly realized if the membrane or sealing wall 31 is located at the adapter 26 / sealing element 32.

[0420] The membrane or sealing wall 31 preferably forms a seal 8 , in particular sealing the closure 7 or connection port 9 from the fluid 2 contained in the container 4 .

[0421] The shape of the membrane or sealing wall 31 preferably corresponds to the connecting element 14 , in particular the membrane or sealing wall 31 is at least essentially circular or disc-shaped and / or has a diameter at least essentially equal to the outer diameter of the connecting element 14 .

[0422] In the delivery state, the membrane or sealing wall 31 is preferably formed integrally or as one piece with the closure part 7 or the connection port 9. Particularly preferably, the closure part 7 or the connection port 9 and the membrane or sealing wall 31 are injection molded as one piece.

[0423] Preferably, the membrane or sealing wall 31 comprises a central or raised portion 31A, a circumferential portion 31B, a connecting portion 31C and / or a film hinge 31D. The membrane or sealing wall 31 and / or the different portions 31A-31D of the membrane or sealing wall 31 are preferably formed as one piece, in particular by injection moulding.

[0424] The central or raised portion 31A is preferably located in the center of the membrane or sealing wall 31 and / or is embodied as a thickened portion of the membrane or sealing wall 31. The raised portion 31A is preferably formed as a dome-shaped or spherical segment. In particular, the central or raised portion 31A is located on the side of the membrane or sealing wall 31 that faces towards the tube 25 and / or that faces away from the top of the cartridge 3.

[0425] Particularly preferably, the membrane or sealing wall 31 is at least essentially flat on the side facing the top of the cartridge 3, in particular by providing a raised portion 31A on that side, and / or the opposite side is curved or bulging.

[0426] Preferably, the circumferential portion 31B connects the membrane or sealing wall 31 to the connection port 9 in the delivery state. In particular, the circumferential portion 31B forms a ring or a section of a ring which integrally connects the membrane or sealing wall 31 to the connection port 9 in the delivery state.

[0427] The circumferential portion 31B is preferably disposed at least partially along the periphery of the membrane or sealing wall 31. In particular, only the section of the periphery of the membrane or sealing wall 31 that includes the connecting portion 31C and / or the film hinge 31D does not include the circumferential portion 31B.

[0428] The circumferential portion 31B is preferably embodied very thinly and / or forms a defined breaking point of the membrane or sealing wall 31 .

[0429] Preferably, the thickness of the circumferential portion 31B is less than 0.1 mm or 0.05 mm.

[0430] The connection portion 31C is preferably formed like a web or as a raised portion or reinforcing rib. In particular, the connection portion 31C extends from the center and / or raised portion 31A of the membrane or sealing wall 31 to the connection port 9. Particularly preferably, the connection portion 31C forms a bridge or additional connection from the connection port 9 to the center and / or raised portion 31A of the membrane or sealing wall 31.

[0431] In particular, the membrane or sealing wall 31 is preferably (integrally) connected to the connection port 9 through a connection portion 31C in addition to being (integrally) connected through a circumferential portion 31B.

[0432] The connection portion 31C is preferably integrally formed with the raised portion 31A, the membrane or sealing wall 31 and / or the connection port 9.

[0433] Particularly preferably, the connecting portion 31C and / or the raised portion 31A are 10 or 20 times thicker than the circumferential portion 31B.

[0434] Preferably, the connecting portion 31C forms a bridge or additional connection from the connecting port 9 towards the centre of the membrane or sealing wall 31, in particular when manufacturing the connection port 9 and / or the membrane or sealing wall 31 by injection moulding. The connecting portion 31C preferably bridges the circumferential portion 31B, in particular so that a moulding material, in particular a moulding plastic, can be injected or flowed through the connecting portion 31C into the centre of the membrane or sealing wall 31, thereby forming the centre or raised portion 31A. In particular, material can cross the circumferential portion 31B through the connecting portion 31C. This ensures that the circumferential portion 31B can be made as thin as desired, since no material has to be injected or flowed through the circumferential portion 31B during the injection moulding process.

[0435] The membrane or sealing wall 31 or the connecting portion 31C preferably forms or includes a film hinge 31D. In particular, the membrane or sealing wall 31 can swing or hinge apart at the film hinge 31D.

[0436] When connecting the cartridge 3 to the delivery mechanism 10 of the nebulizer 1 , the connection element 14 is preferably inserted into the connection port 9 , in particular from the top of the cartridge 3 .

[0437] The connecting element 14 is preferably adapted to break or penetrate the membrane or sealing wall 31 .

[0438] Preferably, the closure 7 or the connection port 9 comprises an opening for inserting the connection element 14. The opening preferably has a funnel shape or a tapered portion that aligns or guides the connection element 14 to the membrane or sealing wall 31. In particular, the connection element 14 is positioned and / or configured such that it can pierce or break the membrane or sealing wall 31 in a defined or precise manner.

[0439] It is preferred that when the connection element 14 is pressed against the membrane or sealing wall 31 and / or inserted into the connection port 9, the membrane or sealing wall 31 breaks or tears along the circumferential portion 31B or is adapted to do so.

[0440] It is preferred that central / raised portion 31A, connecting portion 31C, and / or film hinge 31D remain intact and / or do not rupture or break when connecting element 14 presses against membrane or sealing wall 31 or when the connecting element is inserted into connection port 9. In particular, during or after insertion of connecting element 14 into connection port 9, membrane or sealing wall 31 remains connected to connection port 9 through film hinge 31D.

[0441] It is preferred that when the connecting element 14 is pressed against the membrane or sealing wall 31 or during connection of the cartridge 3 to the delivery mechanism 10, the membrane or sealing wall 31 swings, hinges or tilts aside or is adapted to do so.

[0442] Particularly preferably, the membrane or sealing wall 31 swings, tilts or hinges into the pocket 9A formed by the connection port 9 or the adapter 26 / sealing element 32. Preferably, after connecting the cartridge 3 to the delivery mechanism 10 or in the activated state of the nebulizer 1, the membrane or sealing wall 31 remains tilted to the side and / or into the pocket 9A as shown in FIG.

[0443] Particularly preferably, the membrane or sealing wall 31 is arranged on the connection port 9 and / or the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 so as to be inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the connection port 9, the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 or the connection element 14. In particular, its longitudinal axis has a non-perpendicular angle with or is not perpendicular to the main extension plane of the membrane or sealing wall 31. In particular, the main extension plane of the membrane or sealing wall 31 is not horizontal in the upright position of the cartridge 3.

[0444] Preferably, the membrane or sealing wall 31 is inclined such that in the upright position of the cartridge 3, the film hinge 31D is located at least essentially at the lowest point of the membrane or sealing wall 31. In particular, the film hinge 31D is the point of the membrane or sealing wall 31 closest to the tube 25 and / or is the point furthest away from the top of the cartridge 3 or closure 7.

[0445] When the connecting element 14 is inserted into the cartridge 3, the connecting element 14 first touches or presses against a point of the membrane or sealing wall 31 that is at least essentially opposite the film hinge 31D. This is due in particular to the inclined arrangement of the membrane or sealing wall 31, the point opposite the film hinge 31D being the highest point of the membrane or sealing wall 31 and / or the point closest to the top of the cartridge 3 or closure 7.

[0446] Preferably, the membrane or sealing wall 31 or circumferential portion 31B begins to tear or break at its highest point or at a point opposite the film hinge 31D. In particular, the circumferential portion 31B at or near that point can be formed to be the thinnest portion of the membrane or sealing wall 31.

[0447] Further depression of the connection element 14 causes the film or sealing wall 31 to tear further, preferably along the entire circumferential portion 31B, whilst still remaining attached to the connection port 9 through the film hinge 31D.

[0448] The membrane or sealing wall 31 preferably breaks along the circumferential portion 31B and tilts aside in a defined and / or reproducible manner for similarly manufactured cartridges 3, or is adapted to do so. In particular, the force required to break the membrane or sealing wall 31 is at least essentially the same for similarly manufactured cartridges 3.

[0449] Thereby, it is preferably ensured that the membrane or sealing wall 31 does not block or affect the connection element 14, the fixed end 25A of the tube 25 and / or the delivery mechanism 10 when the cartridge 3 is connected to the delivery mechanism 10. In particular, the membrane or sealing wall does not rupture completely and / or remains coupled to the connection port 9 through the film hinge 31D and / or is maintained in the pocket 9A.

[0450] The connection port 9, and in particular its end face, may further include a step or notch 9B positioned adjacent the film hinge 31D, as shown in particular in Figure 23. The notch 9B may form the pocket 9A or part thereof. In particular, the notch 9B allows or makes it easier for the membrane or sealing wall 31 to tilt or hinge aside.

[0451] The cartridge 3 according to the seventh embodiment of the invention preferably further comprises a housing 33. The housing 33 preferably covers the container 4 and / or the closure 7. In particular, the container 4 and / or the closure 7 are arranged within the housing 33.

[0452] Preferably, the housing 33 has an opening at its top, in particular for inserting the connecting element 14 into the cartridge 3. In the delivery state, the opening is preferably covered by a seal 8, in particular a foil 8A.

[0453] The housing 33 preferably includes a vent / ventilation 6 (not shown), such as a valve, opening or hole, preferably at the bottom of the cartridge 3 .

[0454] Preferably, the housing 33 is rigid and / or made of metal, in particular aluminium, but other solutions such as a plastic housing 33 are also possible here.

[0455] The housing 33 preferably has a (circumferential) recess or notch 33A which extends or protrudes in particular into a recess formed between the container 4 and the closure 7. The notch 33A preferably forms the neck of the cartridge 3.

[0456] The holder 11 of the nebulizer 1 preferably comprises an engagement portion 11A corresponding to the notch 33A. The engagement portion 11A is preferably flexible and / or formed as a flexible arm. In particular, the engagement portion 11A can engage with the notch 33A when the cartridge 3 is connected to the holder 11 or the delivery mechanism 10 of the nebulizer 1. The cartridge 3 is preferably maintained or fixed in the nebulizer 1 in a press-fit or form-fit manner by the engagement portion 11A engaging with the notch 33A.

[0457] Preferably, the cartridge 3, container 4 and / or bag 5 are sealed by a closure 7, in particular by a sealing element 32 between the closure 7, the connection port 9, the adapter 26, the sealing element and / or the container 4 and / or sealings S1, S4 and S5.

[0458] In the delivery state, the cartridge 3 , the container 4 and / or the bag 5 are preferably further sealed by a seal 8 , in particular a foil 8 A and / or a membrane or sealing wall 31 .

[0459] With the cartridge 3 connected to the delivery mechanism 10, the connection element 14 preferably breaks or penetrates the seal 8 and (new) sealings S2 and / or S3 are established between the connection element 14 and the closure 7, the connection port 9, the adapter 26 and / or the sealing element 32. Thus, after the cartridge 3 is connected to the delivery mechanism 10 or in the operating state of the nebulizer 1, the cartridge 3, the container 4 and / or the bag 5 are preferably sealed by the sealings S1-S5.

[0460] Preferably, the cartridge 3 comprises a further sealing S7 between the closure part 7 and the housing 33. In particular, an air-tight and / or liquid-tight connection is formed between the closure part 7 and the housing 33.

[0461] Particularly preferably, the sealing S7 between the closure part 7 and the housing 33 is formed by or comprises a sealing member 34.

[0462] A sealing S7 or sealing member 34 preferably radially seals the cartridge 3.

[0463] The sealing member 34 is preferably in the form of a ring, a gasket or a molded seal. The sealing member 34 is preferably located in a circumferential recess or notch in the closure part 7. The closure part 7 and the sealing member 34 may be integrally formed, particularly preferably by two-component injection molding.

[0464] The housing 33 may have protrusions or recesses 33B that protrude towards and abut and / or press against the closure portion 7 and / or sealing member 34, particularly to provide or enhance a press-fit / tight fit between the housing 33 and the closure portion 7 and / or sealing member 34, and particularly preferably thereby to form a seal 7.

[0465] The sealing S7 or sealing member 34 preferably seals the cartridge 3 from the environment, i.e. even if the fluid 2 leaks out of the container 4, the fluid 2 is prevented from leaking out of the cartridge 3, in particular by leaking through the connection with the closure 7 of the container 4 and / or through the vent / ventilation 6.

[0466] Particularly preferably, leakage of the fluid 2 from the container 4 is already prevented, in particular by providing a seal or sealing between the container 4 and the closure 7 as described above. However, a sealing element 34 or sealing S7 is preferably provided as an additional and / or fail-safe such that the fluid 2 cannot leak out of the cartridge 3 or housing 33 even if the fluid 2 leaks out of the container 4.

[0467] Preferably, at least the container 4 and the adapter 26 / sealing element 32 are at least essentially resistant to evaporation or diffusion. In particular, the seal formed by the sealing element 32 prevents not only leakage of the fluid 2, but also evaporation or diffusion (over time) of the fluid 2. Thus, the cartridge 3 is preferably storage stable and / or can be stored for extended periods of time without substantial loss of the fluid 2.

[0468] Particularly preferably, other parts of the cartridge 3 are also at least essentially resistant to evaporation or diffusion, in particular the closure 7, the connection port 9, the housing 33 and / or the sealing member 34. However, in particular the parts not in direct contact with the fluid 2 can be manufactured from a material that is less resistant to evaporation / diffusion.

[0469] The present invention enables, supports or ensures the withdrawal of fluid 2 from cartridge 3 in any spatial orientation of cartridge 3 and / or even the withdrawal of low residual amounts of fluid 2, e.g. less than 0.1 ml, 0.05 ml or 0.01 ml, from cartridge 3. Thus, the present invention may increase the total amount of dose that can be dispensed and / or prevent misuse or misapplication of nebulizer 1, or at least reduce the risk of such misuse or misapplication.

[0470] The individual features, aspects and / or principles of the different described embodiments may be realized independently of one another and may be combined with one another in any combination, and may be used in particular the illustrated nebulizer 1, but also in similar or different nebulizer / dispensing devices.

[0471] Unlike eg a stand-alone instrument, the proposed nebulizer 1 is preferably designed to be portable, in particular a mobile hand-operated device.

[0472] However, the proposed solution can be used not only in the nebulizer 1 specifically described herein, but also in other nebulizers or inhalers or in other devices for delivering liquid formulations.

[0473] Preferably, fluid 2 is a liquid, particularly a polar liquid, as described above, in particular an aqueous or ethanolic pharmaceutical formulation, but fluid 2 can also contain other pharmaceutical formulations, suspensions, etc., preferably based on water.

[0474] Preferred components and / or formulations of the preferred medical fluid 2 are in particular listed in WO 2009 / 115200 A1, preferably on pages 25 to 40, or in EP 2 614 848 A1, paragraphs 0040 to 0087, which are incorporated herein by reference, and in particular they may be aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, mixtures, or formulations containing ethanol or not containing any solvent, etc.

[0475] The different embodiments and their features and aspects may be combined as desired, but may also be realized independently of one another.

[0476] List of reference numbers 1 Nebulizer 2 fluid 3 Cartridge 4 containers 5 Bags 6 Ventilation / ventilation 7 Closure 8 (Penetrable) Seal 8A Foil 9 Connection Ports 9A Pocket 9B Notch 10 Delivery mechanism 11 Holder 11A Engagement part 12 Drive spring 13. Occlusion Elements 14 Connecting Elements 15 Check valve 16 Pressure Chamber 17 Nozzle 18 Mouthpiece 19 Supply opening 20. Housing 21 Upper housing part 22 Lower housing part 23 Inner housing parts 24 Penetrating elements 25 tubes 25A fixed end 25B Free end 25C (flexible) tube part 25D (rigid) tube section 26 Adapter 26A Anti-kink device 26B Support surface 27 Immersion element 28 Side Entrance 29 Intermediate parts 29A Stop 29B Contact surface 30 (Tube) Valve 30A Valve Ball 30B Valve Chamber 31 Film / Sealing Wall 31A Raised part 31B Circumference 31C Connection part 31D Film Hinge 32 Sealing element 33 Housing 33A Notch 33B Depression 34 Sealing material 35 Piston 36 Piston seal 37 Fastener A Aerosol G gravity S1 Sealing (container-closure) S2 Sealing (Connection port - Connection element) S3 Sealing (connection element - adapter / sealing element) S4 Sealing (Connection port - Adapter / Sealing element) S5 Sealing (container-adapter / sealing element) S6 Sealing (closure - connecting element / holder) S7 Sealing (closure-housing)

Claims

1. A cartridge (3) for a nebulizer (1), comprising: a container (4) containing the fluid (2) to be atomized; a closure (7) having a connection port (9) for fluidly and / or sealingly connecting said container (4) to a nebulizer (1) or its delivery mechanism (10); a pierceable or breakable membrane or sealing wall (31); Including, the cartridge (3) comprises a sealing element (32) between the closure part (7) and the container (4) for forming a sealing (S1) between the closure part (7) and the container (4), the sealing element (32) being adapted to sealingly receive a connection element (14) of the nebulizer (1) after passing through the connection port (9); the membrane or sealing wall (31) has a film hinge (31D) and a circumferential portion (31B) of reduced thickness, such that upon insertion of the connecting element (14) of the nebulizer (1), the membrane or sealing wall (31) breaks along the circumferential portion (31B) and tilts aside; A cartridge (3).

2. 2. A cartridge according to claim 1, characterized in that the membrane or sealing wall (31) is integrated or arranged in the closure.

3. 3. A cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that the membrane or sealing wall (31) is integrated or located in the connection port.

4. The cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the sealing element (32) is held or fixed between the closure part (7) and the container (4) by a radial and / or axial press-fit / tight fit.

5. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing element projects radially beyond the edge of the opening of the container (4).

6. Cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing element (32) is made of rubber and / or (flexible) plastic.

7. the rubber is nitrile rubber, butadiene rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, isoprene rubber, styrene-isoprene rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber, and / or 7. A cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that the (flexible) plastic is a polyamide, a polyethylene, a polypropylene, a polyurethane, a polybutylene terephthalate or a polyether block amide.

8. Cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing element (32) is made of a thermoplastic and / or a thermoplastic elastomer.

9. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the membrane or sealing wall (31) is formed in one piece with the closure part (7) or connection port (9).

10. A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the closure part (7), the connection port (9) and / or the sealing element (32) comprise or form a pocket (9A) for receiving the membrane or sealing wall (31) when tilted aside.

11. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the membrane or sealing wall (31) comprises a thick-walled, preferably ridge-like, connecting portion (31C) connecting the centre of the membrane or sealing wall (31) to the closure part (7) or to the connection port (9).

12. A cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the main extension plane of the membrane or sealing wall (31) is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the closure part (7), the connection port (9) and / or the connection element (14) in the closed or unbroken state.

13. 13. A cartridge according to claim 12, characterized in that the membrane or sealing wall (31) is inclined so that the film hinge (31D) is positioned at or forms the farthest point from the cartridge (3), the closure (7) and / or the opening of the connection port (9), preferably for inserting the connection element (14).

14. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge (3) or its container (4) comprises a vent / ventilation (6) or hole, and / or a sterile filter.

15. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge (3) or its container (4) comprises an opening or hole for a valve, opening or vent / ventilation (6).

16. A cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge (3) comprises a preferably flexible / collapsible bag (5) containing the fluid (2), the bag (5) being placed or maintained within the container (4).

17. The cartridge (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a tube (25) for transporting the fluid (2) from the container (4).

18. 18. The cartridge of claim 17, wherein the sealing element (32) is adapted to sealingly receive the connecting element (14) such that a continuous capillary and / or capillary transition is formed from the tube (25) to the connecting element (14).

19. 19. Cartridge according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the tube (25) is at least partially flexible and / or bendable and / or made of rubber, thermoplastics and / or thermoplastic elastomers.

20. 19. Cartridge according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the tube (25) is made of at least one of the following: butyl rubber, polyamide, polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene terephthalate, or polyether block amide.

21. A nebulizer (1) for a fluid (2), comprising: a preferably insertable cartridge (3) having a container (4) containing a fluid (2); a housing (20) for receiving said cartridge (3); a delivery mechanism (10) for pressurizing the fluid (2); a connecting element (14) for fluidly connecting said cartridge (3) to said delivery mechanism (10); Including, The cartridge (3) is constructed according to any one of claims 1 to 20. A nebulizer (1).

22. 22. The nebulizer according to claim 21, characterized in that the cartridge (3) comprises a closure (7) with a seal (8), and / or a membrane or sealing wall (31), and / or a funnel- and / or cone-shaped connection port (9).

23. 23. The nebulizer according to claim 22, characterized in that the cartridge (3) comprises a closure (7) with a foil (8A) as a seal (8), said foil (8A) covering the connection port (9) on the outside.

24. 24. The nebulizer according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the connecting element (14) is rigid and / or configured as a piercing element and / or adapted to open a membrane or a sealing wall (31).

25. 24. Nebulizer according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the connecting element (14) is adapted to penetrate the seal (8), the foil (8A) and / or the membrane or sealing wall (31).

26. 24. Nebulizer according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that the closure (7) and / or the connection port (9) are adapted to form a sealing (S2) with the connection element (14).

27. A cartridge as described in claim 26, characterized in that the membrane or sealing wall (31) is positioned between the sealing (S2) formed between the connection port (9) and the connection element (14) and a sealing (S3) formed between the sealing element (32) and the connection element (14).

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