Vibrating Powder Applicator

Abstract

A vibratory powder applicator and associated methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, the vibratory powder applicator may include a powder storage chamber, a powder (e.g., a therapeutic powder) disposed in the powder storage chamber, an actuator operatively coupled to the powder storage chamber and configured to vibratory agitate the powder when actuated, and an outlet in fluid communication with the powder storage chamber. In some embodiments, the vibratory powder applicator may include a flow restrictor and / or a valve.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to powder applicators and related methods. [Background technology]

[0002] Powder applicators are used in many different applications to apply various types of powders to desired surfaces, such as delivering therapeutic powders to desired locations on a subject for therapeutic purposes. Powders delivered using these applicators tend to be lightweight, low-density powders with Hausner ratios between 1.00 and 1.18. Some applicators fluidize the powder by directing a flow of gas toward the powder. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003]

[0003] In some embodiments, a method of applying a therapeutic powder includes positioning an outlet of a powder applicator containing the therapeutic powder below a powder storage chamber of the powder applicator relative to the direction of local gravity, vibrationally agitating the therapeutic powder, and dispensing at least a portion of the therapeutic powder through the outlet of the powder applicator.

[0004]

[0004] In some embodiments, the vibratory powder applicator includes a powder storage chamber, a therapeutic powder disposed within the powder storage chamber, an actuator operatively coupled to the powder storage chamber and configured to vibratory agitate the therapeutic powder when actuated, and an outlet in fluid communication with the powder storage chamber.

[0005]

[0005] In some embodiments, the vibratory powder applicator includes a powder storage chamber configured to contain a powder, an actuator operatively coupled to the powder storage chamber and configured to vibratory agitate the powder when actuated, an outlet in fluid communication with the powder storage chamber, and a flow restrictor disposed between the powder storage chamber and the outlet.

[0006] In some embodiments, the vibratory powder applicator includes a powder storage chamber configured to contain a powder, an actuator operatively coupled to the powder storage chamber and configured to vibratory agitate the powder when actuated, an outlet in fluid communication with the powder storage chamber, and a valve disposed between the powder storage chamber and the outlet, the valve configured to selectively allow or prevent the flow of powder from the powder storage chamber to the outlet.

[0007]

[0007] It should be appreciated that the foregoing concepts and additional concepts described below can be arranged in any suitable combination, as the disclosure is not limited in this respect. Furthermore, other advantages and novel features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of various non-limiting embodiments when considered in conjunction with the accompanying figures. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008]

[0008] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be drawn to scale. In the drawings, each identical or nearly identical component shown in various figures may be designated by a like numeral. For purposes of clarity, not every component in every drawing may be labeled.

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a vibratory powder applicator. [Figure 2A]

[0010] FIG. 1 is a top view of one embodiment of a vibratory powder applicator. [Figure 2B]

[0011] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional side view of the vibratory powder applicator of FIG. 2A taken along line 2B-2B. [Figure 3A]

[0012] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional rear view of one embodiment of a flow restrictor. [Figure 3B]

[0013] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional side view of the distal end of an embodiment of a vibratory powder applicator including the flow restrictor of FIG. 3A taken along line 3B-3B. [Figure 4A]

[0014] 1 is a cross-sectional rear view of a first embodiment of a flow restrictor having a first number of fins. [Figure 4B]

[0015] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional rear view of a second embodiment of a flow restrictor having a second number of fins. [Figure 4C]

[0016] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional rear view of a third embodiment of a flow restrictor having a third number of fins. [Figure 4D]

[0017] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional rear view of a fourth embodiment of a flow restrictor having a fourth number of fins. [Figure 5]

[0018] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a vibratory powder applicator including a valve. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Detailed Description

[0019] Therapeutic powders can vary in both particle size and density. These characteristics affect the powder's flow characteristics, or fluidity. The Hausner ratio, calculated by dividing a powder's measured tap density by its bulk density, can be used to evaluate powder flowability. Generally, the lower the Hausner ratio, the better the flowability. For example, powders with Hausner ratios between 1.00 and 1.18 can be considered to exhibit excellent to good flow characteristics, while powders with Hausner ratios above 1.18 exhibit fair to poor flow characteristics. Other powder characteristics, such as particle morphology, basic flowability energy, air permeability energy, air permeability index, wall friction angle, compressibility, electrostatic charge, moisture content, and other suitable parameters, can also be used to characterize the overall flowability of a powder. Particles with poor flowability are relatively difficult to fluidize and may not be suitable for certain applications.

[0011]

[0020] Hemostatic powders are therapeutic powders used to manage or stop bleeding. These powders are typically applied via an applicator. Conventional applicators may use pressurized gas (e.g., generated by a manual bellows or an automated gas flow) to fluidize and deliver the powder toward a target area, such as a bleeding site. Existing applicators use relatively high pressure and / or high velocity gas and are generally effective at fluidizing and applying relatively small particle size and / or relatively low density hemostatic powders. Such hemostatic powders may exhibit Hausner ratios of 1.00 to 1.18. However, these small particle size and / or low density hemostatic powders may not be effective at breaking the surface tension of flowing blood and therefore may not reach the desired location below the flowing blood. Therefore, in certain applications, it may be advantageous to use larger and / or denser powders that can break the surface tension of flowing blood. However, larger and / or denser powders may be difficult to fluidize using standard pressure-based applicators. Additionally, the use of pressurized gas to eject larger and / or denser powders can result in less control and limited delivery accuracy.

[0012]

[0021] In light of the above, the inventors have recognized the benefits of an improved therapeutic powder applicator that can dispense powders (including relatively large and / or dense powders) in a focused manner within a specific delivery area. Such an applicator can be configured to effectively fluidize and apply therapeutic powders in a controlled, targeted, and reproducible manner. While conventional applicators may be limited to applying hemostatic powder in a relatively coarse and / or imprecise manner, improved applicators, in some embodiments, may be capable of controllably delivering a variety of different types, sizes, and densities of powder, allowing for focused delivery of powder to a precise target area.

[0013]

[0022] In light of the above, the inventors have recognized the advantages of an applicator that can use vibration to control the delivery of powder from the applicator. Without wishing to be bound by theory, applying vibrational energy to a powder (e.g., powder placed in an applicator) can be associated with fluidizing the powder so that it can flow under the influence of gravity. When an applicator containing powder is maintained in a particular orientation, applying vibrational energy to the powder can fluidize the powder, allowing the powder to flow from a powder storage chamber in the applicator toward the tip of the applicator and out of the applicator outlet. Such a vibratory powder applicator can enable controllable, focused, precise, and repeatable delivery of powder.

[0014]

[0023] In some embodiments, the vibratory powder applicator includes a powder storage chamber configured to contain a powder, such as a therapeutic powder (e.g., a hemostatic powder). An actuator is operatively coupled to the powder storage chamber and can be configured to vibrationally agitate the powder when actuated. An outlet of the applicator can be in fluid communication with the powder storage chamber. In some embodiments, the powder storage chamber and outlet are configured such that when the powder is vibrationally agitated by the actuator, the powder can move from the powder storage chamber toward the outlet. For example, the vibratory powder applicator can include a proximal end and a distal end. The powder storage chamber can be associated with the proximal end, and the outlet can be associated with the distal end. When the applicator is oriented with respect to the direction of local gravity such that the distal end (and outlet) is below the proximal end (and storage chamber), the vibrational agitation of the powder can fluidize the powder, allowing the powder to flow from the storage chamber toward and through the outlet under the influence of gravity, thereby dispensing at least a portion of the powder.

[0015]

[0024] The actuator of the vibratory powder applicator may include any suitable actuator configured to vibrate powder associated with the applicator. In some embodiments, the actuator may include a motor, such as a brushed motor, a brushless motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable type of motor. In some embodiments including a motor, the motor may be configured to produce vibrations in the powder by rotating an eccentric weight coupled to the motor. In some embodiments, the actuator may include a linear actuator, such as a linear actuator configured to repeatedly translate a mass to vibrate the powder. While the actuator of the vibratory powder applicator may be directly coupled to a portion of the applicator, the actuator may also be coupled to any suitable gear mechanism, transmission, and / or linkage to vibrate the powder, as the disclosure is not so limited. In view of the above, it should be understood that any suitable type of actuator capable of applying a vibratory force to a portion of the applicator, capable of fluidizing powder contained therein, may be used, as the disclosure is not so limited.

[0016]

[0025] It should be appreciated that the actuator of the vibratory powder applicator may be disposed in any suitable location and / or in any suitable orientation, as the disclosure is not limited in this respect. The applicator may include a proximal end and a distal end, and the outlet may be disposed in a distal portion of the applicator. In some embodiments, the actuator may be disposed proximal to a distal portion of the powder storage chamber. In some embodiments, the actuator may be disposed distal to a proximal portion of the powder storage chamber. In some embodiments, the actuator may be disposed proximal to the outlet. In some embodiments, the actuator may be disposed proximal to a tapered portion of the applicator that leads to the nozzle. In some embodiments, the actuator may be housed within the outer casing of the powder applicator, attached to the housing of the applicator, or operatively coupled to the housing of the applicator in any suitable manner, as the disclosure is not so limited. The inventors have recognized that locating the actuator in a portion of the applicator proximal to the distal portion of the powder storage chamber can be advantageous in that such location can promote powder fluidization, regardless of how much powder remains in the chamber, thereby reducing the amount of powder remaining in the storage chamber after use. Furthermore, the location of the motor can be related, at least in part, to the rate at which powder is delivered by the applicator. However, it should be recognized that the present disclosure is not limited to any particular location of the actuator relative to any other component or portion of the applicator.

[0017]

[0026] Although the above description has sometimes referred to a single actuator, the present disclosure is not limited with respect to the number of actuators included in the vibratory powder applicator. The vibratory powder applicator may include one, two, three, four, five, or any other suitable number of actuators arranged and / or distributed in any suitable manner. The applicator may include different types of actuators configured to induce vibrations. The applicator may include additional applicators that are not configured to induce vibrations, but rather configured to perform other operations related to powder delivery.

[0018]

[0027] In some embodiments, the applicator may include a sleeve surrounding at least a portion of the housing. The sleeve may be configured to at least partially isolate vibrations of the powder storage chamber from a user's hand. For example, an elastomeric sleeve may allow the actuator to vibrate the powder storage chamber (or other portions of the applicator) while reducing the amount of vibration experienced by the user. The sleeve material may be selected to dampen vibrations from the actuator. For example, the sleeve may be an elastomeric material, a viscoelastic substance, rubber, silicone, polyurethane, or any other suitable material. Furthermore, the sleeve may provide an ergonomic grip for the user. Other additional vibration isolation components (including, but not limited to, O-rings and gaskets) may be included in the applicator, as the disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0019]

[0028] In some embodiments, a method of applying hemostatic powder can include positioning an outlet of a powder applicator containing the hemostatic powder below a powder storage chamber of the powder applicator relative to the direction of local gravity, vibrationally agitating the hemostatic powder, and dispensing at least a portion of the hemostatic powder through the outlet of the powder applicator. The method can also include positioning the outlet of the powder applicator above a target delivery site prior to dispensing the powder. As described above, vibrationally agitating the powder can include activating an actuator, such as activating a motor configured to rotate an eccentric load. In some embodiments, the powder can remain fluidized only while the actuator is activated. Similarly, in some embodiments, the method can further include deactivating the actuator to stop dispensing of the powder.

[0020]

[0029] Without wishing to be bound by theory, the amount of powder fluidization may depend, at least in part, on the internal geometry of the container in which the powder is contained. For example, in the case of a powder applicator, the minimum internal dimension (such as the inner diameter of the nozzle leading to the outlet) may partially determine the fluidization behavior of the powder. For example, when other variables, such as powder size and powder density, are held constant, a minimum internal dimension (e.g., nozzle inner diameter) below a first threshold dimension may prevent powder flow, regardless of whether vibration is applied to the powder. For example, the nozzle inner diameter may be too small (relative to the powder particle size) for the powder to flow through the nozzle. Similarly, a minimum internal dimension above a second threshold dimension greater than the first threshold dimension may allow free flow of powder through the nozzle, regardless of whether vibration is applied to the powder. For example, the nozzle inner diameter may be large enough (relative to the powder particle size) that the powder flows freely through the nozzle simply under the influence of gravity. In some embodiments, when the minimum internal dimension is above a first threshold dimension and below a second threshold dimension, flow of powder through the nozzle and outlet of the applicator may occur when vibration is applied (e.g., when the actuator is activated), and flow of powder through the nozzle and outlet may be substantially prevented when vibration is stopped (e.g., when the actuator is deactivated).

[0021]

[0030] Of course, the minimum internal dimension may affect other system parameters, including, but not limited to, powder flow rate. Without wishing to be bound by theory, a large minimum internal dimension may be associated with a higher powder flow rate compared to a small minimum internal dimension. In some situations, it may be desirable for the powder applicator to be able to achieve a high flow rate, which may be associated with a minimum internal dimension that is above a second threshold (i.e., a minimum internal dimension that is too large to stop powder flow even when vibration is no longer applied). Accordingly, the inventors have recognized that, in some embodiments, there may be advantages associated with a vibratory powder applicator that includes a valve and / or flow restrictor for preventing the free flow of powder through the applicator nozzle and outlet when vibration is not being applied to the applicator by one or more associated actuators. Particular embodiments are described in more detail below.

[0022]

[0031] As noted above, in some embodiments, the applicator may include a flow restrictor. The flow restrictor may be a passive control structure configured to allow powder flow when the actuator is activated and to prevent powder flow when the actuator is deactivated. In one such embodiment, the flow restrictor may correspond to a body disposed within an interior volume of the applicator, such as within the powder storage chamber and / or nozzle of the applicator. The body may reduce the open area through which powder can flow by forming one or more gaps between the body and an interior surface of the applicator through which powder can flow. The inclusion of these one or more gaps, which may have reduced characteristic dimensions relative to an unobstructed nozzle and / or outlet, can prevent free flow of powder from the applicator when one or more actuators are not activated. However, embodiments in which a flow restrictor is not used are also contemplated.

[0023]

[0032] In some embodiments, the flow restrictor may include a body at least partially disposed within a chamber and / or nozzle of the applicator into which the powder may be disposed. The flow restrictor may form one or more gaps between the body and an inner surface of the chamber and / or nozzle of the vibratory powder applicator such that, upon application of vibration to the applicator by an associated actuator, the powder flows through the one or more gaps and past the flow restrictor. In some embodiments, the flow restrictor may include a plurality of fins extending outward from the body toward an adjacent inner surface of the chamber and / or nozzle in which the body is disposed, the plurality of fins configured to inhibit powder flow when the actuator is deactivated. Without wishing to be bound by theory, frictional and / or shear forces exerted on the powder by the fins may be sufficient to stop the powder flow when vibration energy is no longer applied to the applicator. In some embodiments, the plurality of fins of the flow restrictor may extend radially from the body of the flow restrictor, and the body may, in some embodiments, be centrally located within the corresponding chamber and / or nozzle. The fins may extend completely toward the inner surface of the housing so that they contact the inner surface, or the fins may extend only partially toward the inner surface of the housing. In embodiments in which the fins extend completely toward the inner surface of the housing, one or more gaps may be defined by surfaces including the inner surface of the housing, sides of the fins, and / or surfaces associated with the body. In such embodiments, the fins may separate adjacent gaps from one another. In some embodiments, the fins may extend completely along the longitudinal dimension of the body. In some embodiments, the fins may be located on a proximal portion of the body. Because the present disclosure is not limited to where or how the body used to restrict flow through the nozzle and outlet of the applicator includes fins, in other contemplated embodiments, the fins may be located on a distal portion of the body or on both the proximal and distal portions of the body. Additionally, embodiments in which fins are not used are also contemplated.

[0024]

[0033] As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the flow restrictor may be a passive component. Thus, the flow restrictor may be non-powered and / or non-actuated. Thus, in some embodiments, the flow restrictor may be entirely static and not include any moving parts.

[0025]

[0034] In some embodiments, the flow restrictor may be a modular component that can be inserted into and / or removed from the applicator. In such embodiments, the flow restrictor may be replaced if damaged or exchanged for a different flow restrictor having different characteristics. For example, when a first powder is used in the applicator, a first flow restrictor configured for use with the first powder may be installed in the applicator. When the same applicator is used with a second powder, the first flow restrictor may be replaced with a second flow restrictor configured for use with the second powder. Thus, a single applicator may be configured to controllably deliver a wide range of powder particle sizes and / or densities.

[0026]

[0035] Without wishing to be bound by theory, the flow rate of powder through a flow restrictor may depend, at least in part, on the properties of the powder (e.g., particle size, powder density) and the properties of the flow restrictor. In embodiments in which the flow restrictor includes a body and multiple fins extending from a central body, flow restrictor parameters that may affect the powder flow rate may include, but are not limited to, the size of the central body and the number of fins. By varying these (and other) parameters, different flow rates can be achieved. For example, a flow restrictor may be associated with powder flow rates of 0.01 g / s or greater, 0.05 g / s or greater, 0.10 g / s or greater, 0.25 g / s or greater, or 0.50 g / s or greater. A flow restrictor may also be associated with powder flow rates of 1.00 g / s or less, 0.50 g / s or less, 0.25 g / s or less, 0.10 g / s or less, or 0.05 g / s or less. Combinations of the above ranges, including, for example, powder flow rates of 0.01 g / s or greater and 1.00 g / s or less, are contemplated. Of course, it should be appreciated that flow restrictors may be associated with powder flow rates other than those specifically described above, and the present disclosure is not limited to flow restrictors associated with any particular powder flow rate.

[0027]

[0036] In some embodiments, the applicator may include a valve for selectively blocking the flow of powder through the nozzle and / or outlet of the applicator. The valve may be configured to selectively allow or block the flow of powder from the powder storage chamber to the outlet. In some embodiments, the valve may be electrically and / or manually actuated and may be referred to as an active flow control element. In some applications, the valve may include a selectively movable gate, such as a spring-loaded slide gate, configured to control the flow of powder. The gate may be configured to block the flow of powder in its default (e.g., unactuated) position and may be moved to allow the flow of powder when actuated by a user. For example, an aperture in the slide gate may be configured to align with a conduit between the powder storage chamber and the outlet when a user presses a button, and a spring may be configured to return the slide gate to its default position when the button is no longer pressed so that the opening in the slide gate is no longer aligned with the conduit. However, examples in which a spring-loaded valve is not used and / or in which the valve includes a gate that is displaced from the powder flow path without the use of an aperture are also contemplated. The valve may be actuated manually (e.g., when a user presses a button) or automatically (e.g., by a solenoid valve or other actuator controlled by an associated processor). In some embodiments, the control of the valve may be coupled to the vibration actuator control such that opening and closing the valve may also activate or deactivate the vibration actuator, respectively. While a gate valve is described above and illustrated, in some embodiments the valve may also include a mechanical door, ball valve, pinch valve, or any other suitable valve capable of restricting the flow of powder through the nozzle and / or outlet of the applicator. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that any valve configured to selectively allow or prevent the flow of powder may be used, as the disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0028]

[0037] The applicators disclosed herein can be used to fluidize and dispense a wide range of therapeutic powders having various particle sizes and densities. The inventors have demonstrated through testing that relatively large particle size and / or high density powders can be used with the applicators disclosed herein. For example, the applicators can be configured to fluidize powders having an average particle size equal to or greater than 100 μm, 200 μm, 300 μm, and / or any other suitable size. The powders can also have an average particle size equal to or less than 1000 μm, 900 μm, 800 μm, and / or any other suitable size. Combinations of the above ranges are also contemplated, including, for example, an average particle size of powders equal to or greater than 100 μm and equal to or less than 1000 μm, or an average particle size of powders equal to or greater than 500 μm and equal to or less than 1000 μm. In some embodiments, the particle size of a powder may be used to refer to the maximum diameter or other largest dimension of the powder, although other interpretations of particle size may be appropriate in other embodiments, and the disclosure is not limited in this respect. In addition to the above, in some embodiments, the applicators disclosed herein may enable the use of a combination of multiple types of powder particles, each of which may be comprised of similar or different particle characteristics, such as size, density, etc. In addition to the above, in some embodiments, the powder may have a Hausner ratio greater than 1.18, but it should be appreciated that the applicator may also be configured to fluidize and dispense powders having a Hausner ratio of 1.18 or less. For example, the Hausner ratio of one or more powders contained within the applicator may be equal to or greater than 1.18, 1.2, 1.3, and / or any other suitable ratio. Similarly, the Hausner ratio may be equal to or less than 1.4, 1.3, 1.2, and / or any other suitable ratio. For example, while the aforementioned combinations including Hausner ratios between 1.18 and 1.4 are contemplated, both ratios above and below the aforementioned ratios are also contemplated. Furthermore, while specific particle sizes are given above, the disclosure is not so limited, and particles both above and below the aforementioned sizes are also contemplated.

[0029]

[0038] In some applications, it may be desirable for an applicator to be able to fluidize powder contained therein when the applicator is in any of several different orientations. Therefore, it may be desirable to position the powder storage chamber of the applicator so that, when the applicator is in use, the powder storage chamber is above the applicator's outlet relative to the direction of gravity. For example, the applicator may be intended for use while the outlet is held at least partially oriented vertically downward relative to the direction of gravity, while the powder storage chamber is positioned at least partially above the outlet. In this manner, powder from the powder storage chamber can flow toward the outlet under the influence of gravity when the powder is fluidized, such as by applied vibration energy. To facilitate this positioning of the powder, in some embodiments, it may be advantageous to tilt the longitudinal axis of the applicator relative to a horizontal axis (the horizontal axis being perpendicular to a vertical axis parallel to the direction of local gravity). Tilting the applicator may help maintain the powder in a desired portion of the chamber. A suitable angle of the applicator during use may be equal to or greater than 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 50°, 60°, 70°, 80°, and / or any other suitable angle (0° corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the applicator being aligned with the horizontal axis, and 90° corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the applicator being aligned with the vertical axis (i.e., aligned with the direction of local gravity)). A suitable angle of the applicator during use may also be equal to or less than 90°, 80°, 70°, 60°, 50°, 40°, 30°, 20°, and / or any other suitable angle. Combinations of the above are also contemplated, including applicator angles during use between, for example, 10° and 90°.

[0030]

[0039] It should be understood that the applicator may have a chamber of any suitable shape for containing the powder to be dispensed. However, in certain embodiments, the applicator chamber may have an elongated shape with a longitudinal axis extending along the length of the chamber. For example, the chamber may be generally cylindrical with hemispherical and / or rounded ends. Such a shape may facilitate fluidization of the powder and dispensing through the outlet. For example, the shape may be free of sharp edges, corners, etc. that may interfere with the fluidization of the powder within the chamber. However, embodiments in which sharp edges, corners, and other abrupt, discontinuous design features are present along the applicator flow paths and / or within the chambers are also contemplated, as the disclosure is not so limited. For example, doglegs or other sharp bends may be present along flow paths connecting various flow paths and / or chambers to one another.

[0031]

[0040] The applicators described herein may be used to dispense any suitable type of powder, as the disclosure is not so limited. However, as noted above, in some embodiments, various embodiments of the powder applicators described herein may be used to dispense a powder containing one or more therapeutic compounds, sometimes referred to as a therapeutic powder. As the disclosure is not so limited, a therapeutic compound for purposes of this application may represent any suitable material, including, but not limited to, any drug, agent, pharmaceutical, imaging agent, and / or biologic, such as a protein, antisense molecule, and gene therapy viral vector. In certain embodiments, the therapeutic compound may be a hemostatic agent in the form of a hemostatic powder. The amount of therapeutic powder dispensed from the applicator may be selected so that an effective amount of the therapeutic compound can be dispensed at a desired location. When a therapeutic compound is present at a particular location in an "effective amount," this means that the concentration of the therapeutic compound is more than trace amounts and is sufficient to achieve a desired purpose, such as, for example, enabling detection of the therapeutic compound in a subject for diagnostic purposes, treating a disease or condition in the subject, and / or enhancing treatment of a disease or condition in the subject. In some embodiments, an effective amount of a particular therapeutic compound is present in an amount sufficient to reduce or alleviate one or more symptoms associated with a particular condition.

[0032]

[0041] In some embodiments, a method of operating a vibratory powder applicator can include controlling a flow of pressurized gas. The pressurized gas can be used in addition to (or instead of) vibrational energy to assist in fluidizing the powder and allowing it to flow from the powder storage chamber toward the nozzle. Gas flowing through a portion of the applicator (e.g., a portion of the applicator near or including the powder storage chamber) can entrain powder from the powder storage chamber in the gas flow and deliver it through the nozzle. For example, a pressurized gas source can be in fluid communication with an outlet of the applicator such that pressurized gas can flow from the pressurized gas source through the applicator and out the outlet. Between the pressurized gas source and the outlet, the gas flow can entrain the powder. For example, the gas flow can pass over or through the powder storage chamber such that powder can be entrained by the gas flow. The applicator can be configured to effectively control the delivery area of ​​the powder by controlling the pressure and / or velocity of the gas flow. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas flow can be delivered manually or automatically. Suitable pressure sources may include, but are not limited to, a compressible bellows, a gas canister, a centralized pressure source such as a pressurized gas port, a pump, and / or any other suitable pressure source capable of supplying pressurized gas to the applicator.

[0033]

[0042] With reference to the figures, certain non-limiting embodiments are described in further detail. It should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to only the particular embodiments described herein, and that the various systems, components, features, and methods described in connection with these embodiments can be used either individually and / or in any desired combination.

[0034]

[0043] 1-2B illustrate one embodiment of a vibratory powder applicator 100. FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of applicator 100. FIG. 2A is a top view of vibratory powder applicator 100, and FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional side view of vibratory powder applicator 100. In this embodiment, applicator 100 includes a proximal end 102 associated with a powder storage chamber 110 and a distal end 104 associated with an outlet 116 formed in a distal portion of the applicator. Powder storage chamber 110 is configured to store powder 130 disposed therein, which may include a therapeutic powder, such as a hemostatic powder, or other suitable powder. Powder storage chamber 110 may be operatively coupled to a housing 106 of applicator 100. In some embodiments, storage chamber 110 may be removably coupled to housing 106 (e.g., using a threaded interface, fasteners, a press fit, or any other suitable coupling). In some embodiments, the storage chamber 110 may be fixedly coupled to the housing 106 so that it cannot be removed. In yet other embodiments, the chamber may be integrally formed with a portion of the housing such that the chamber is formed entirely within the applicator housing. In the illustrated embodiment, an entire powder storage chamber may be provided corresponding to an internal volume formed within the housing and a removable portion of the chamber. Regardless of the specific configuration, the resulting powder storage chamber may contain powder disposed therein for subsequent dispensing by the applicator. The distal portion of the housing 106 may include one or more components that restrict the free flow of powder through the outlet of the applicator, including, for example, a flow restrictor 112. Powder flowing through a gap between one or more portions of the flow restrictor and the inner surface of the chamber and / or nozzle or other portion of the housing may flow through the nozzle 114 before exiting the applicator through the outlet 116. In some embodiments, the applicator 100 may include a sleeve 108 that surrounds at least a portion of the housing 106. The sleeve 108 may be configured to provide at least partial vibration isolation between the housing 106 and a user's hand. In some cases, the sleeve may also provide an ergonomic grip for the user.The sleeve 108 may further house drive components such as an actuator 120, one or more batteries 122, a PCB 124, and / or an activation button 126. As described above, the actuator 120 may be configured to vibrate the powder 130 and fluidize the powder, allowing it to flow out of the outlet 116. For example, the actuator 120 may include a motor configured to rotate an eccentric mass. In some embodiments, the button 126 may be configured to activate the actuator 120. In some embodiments, as described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 5, the button 126 may be configured to activate both the actuator 120 and an active flow control element. While the one or more actuators of the applicator are shown in the illustrated embodiment as being disposed between the outer sleeve and the applicator, it should be understood that other configurations are also contemplated. For example, the one or more actuators may be operatively coupled to the applicator housing in any suitable manner, including both direct and indirect connections with any desired portion of the applicator housing, such that the one or more actuators can apply vibrations to the applicator housing.

[0035]

[0044] 3A-4D illustrate different embodiments of the flow restrictor 200. FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional rear view of one embodiment of the flow restrictor 200. The flow restrictor 200 may include a body 202 centrally disposed in the chamber and flow path and a plurality of fins 204 extending from the central body 202. However, embodiments in which the body is not centrally disposed in the chamber are also contemplated. In the illustrated embodiment, the fins 204 extend radially outward from the central body 202. In some embodiments, the fins may either have a gap between them and the inner surface 256a of the housing 256 of the applicator 250, or the fins may contact the inner surface of the housing. In either case, the fins 204 form at least one, and possibly multiple, gaps 206 between the flow restrictor and the inner surface of a powder storage chamber formed within the housing that allows the powder to flow past the flow restrictor and to the nozzle and outlet when fluidized.

[0036]

[0045] Note that in the rear view of FIG. 3A, due to the tapered shape of a portion of distal end 254 of applicator 250, it may be difficult to see the interface between fin 204 and inner surface 256a of housing 256. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional side view of distal end 254 of one embodiment of vibratory powder applicator 250, taken along line 3B-3B shown in FIG. 3A, illustrating where flow restrictor 200 may be positioned. Consistent with FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B shows fin 204 along the top center of flow restrictor 200 and gap 206 along the bottom center of flow restrictor 200. As can be seen in FIG. 3B, fin 204 extends to and contacts inner surface 256a of housing 256 of applicator 250. However, as noted above, embodiments in which one or more fins do not contact the inner surface of the housing are also contemplated.

[0037]

[0046] 4A-4D are cross-sectional views of different embodiments of flow restrictors having different numbers of fins. FIG. 4A shows one embodiment of flow restrictor 200a including six fins. FIG. 4B shows one embodiment of flow restrictor 200b including nine fins. FIG. 4C shows one embodiment of flow restrictor 200c including twelve fins. FIG. 4D shows one embodiment of flow restrictor 200d including sixteen fins. While four specific examples of flow restrictors having different numbers of fins are provided in FIGS. 4A-4D , it should be appreciated that flow restrictor 200 may include any suitable number of fins, as the disclosure is not limited in this respect. Furthermore, without wishing to be bound by theory, fewer fins may allow the passage of larger powder particles for the same gap size between the corresponding body and the inner surface of the housing, compared to a larger number of fins, which may allow correspondingly smaller particles to flow past the flow restrictor. Thus, the use of different flow restrictors having either different gap sizes and / or numbers of fins may allow the use of different sized powders in the same overall applicator design.

[0038]

[0047] 5 is a cross-sectional side view of one embodiment of a vibratory powder applicator 300 including a valve 312 configured to restrict the flow of powder through the applicator when in a closed configuration. For example, this may be desirable when powder size, outlet size, or other suitable considerations may cause some amount of powder to leak from the device when pointed vertically downward. In the illustrated embodiment, the applicator 300 includes a proximal end 302 associated with a powder storage chamber 310 operatively coupled to a housing 306, and a distal end 304 associated with a nozzle 314 and an outlet 316. The valve 312 is disposed between the powder storage chamber 310 and the outlet 316. In the illustrated embodiment, the valve 312 includes a movable gate 340 operatively coupled to a spring 342 and a button 344. When a user presses the button 344, the gate 340 moves to align an opening in the gate with a conduit configured for powder flow. When the user releases button 344, spring 342 returns gate 340 to its default position where the opening is not aligned with the conduit, thereby preventing flow. Thus, the valve can selectively allow and prevent the flow of powder through the nozzle and outlet based on whether the valve is in an open or closed configuration. While a particular gate valve is illustrated, it should be understood that any suitable type of valve capable of selectively restricting the flow of powder through the nozzle and outlet of the applicator, as previously described, may be used, as the disclosure is not so limited.

[0039]

[0048] While the present teachings have been described in conjunction with various embodiments and examples, it is not intended that the present teachings be limited to such embodiments or examples. On the contrary, the present teachings encompass various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of example only.

[0040]

[0049] The embodiments described herein may be embodied as methods, of which examples are provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable manner. Thus, while shown as sequential acts in the exemplary embodiments, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different from that described, which may include performing some acts simultaneously.

[0041]

[0050] Additionally, some actions are described as being performed by a "user." It should be recognized that a "user" need not be a single individual, and that in some embodiments, actions attributed to a "user" may be performed by a team of individuals and / or an individual in combination with computer-assisted tools or other mechanisms.

[0042]

[0051] This disclosure sometimes uses terms indicating relative positions, such as "below" and / or "above." It should be recognized that these relative terms are used with respect to the direction of local gravity. For example, a first object is understood to be "below" another object if the second object moves toward the first object along the axis of gravity when acted upon by gravity alone. It should be recognized that an object "above" or "below" another object need not be "directly above" or "directly below" the other object. For example, if the direction of local gravity is aligned with the vertical direction, one object may be offset horizontally (i.e., perpendicular to the axis of gravity) from another object and still be "above" or "below" the other object.

Claims

1. a powder storage chamber; and a therapeutic powder disposed within the powder storage chamber; an actuator operatively coupled to the powder storage chamber and configured, when actuated, to vibrationally agitate the therapeutic powder; an outlet in fluid communication with the powder storage chamber; a flow restrictor disposed between the powder storage chamber and the outlet, the flow restrictor including a body, the flow restrictor forming one or more gaps between an inner surface of a housing of the vibratory powder applicator and the body; the actuator, the powder storage chamber, and the outlet are configured such that the therapeutic powder in the powder storage chamber is fluidized by vibrational agitation by the actuator, and the fluidized therapeutic powder flows out of the outlet under the influence of gravity with the outlet oriented at least partially vertically downward; The one or more gaps are configured such that the powder flows through the one or more gaps when the actuator is actuated.

2. 10. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1, wherein the therapeutic powder is a hemostatic powder.

3. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1 , wherein the actuator includes a motor coupled to an eccentric load.

4. 10. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1, wherein the actuator is housed within an outer casing of the powder applicator.

5. 10. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1, wherein the therapeutic powder has a diameter of not less than 100 [mu]m and not more than 1000 [mu]m.

6. 6. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 5, wherein the diameter of the therapeutic powder is greater than or equal to 500 μm and less than or equal to 1000 μm.

7. 2. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1, wherein the applicator includes a proximal end and a distal end, the outlet being disposed in a distal portion of the applicator, and the actuator being disposed proximally relative to the distal portion of the powder storage chamber.

8. 2. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1, wherein the applicator includes a proximal end and a distal end, the outlet being disposed in a distal portion of the applicator, and the actuator being disposed distally relative to the proximal portion of the powder storage chamber.

9. 10. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1, wherein the flow restrictor comprises a plurality of fins configured to inhibit the flow of the powder when the actuator is deactivated.

10. 10. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 9, wherein the plurality of fins of the flow restrictor extend radially from the body of the flow restrictor toward the inner surface of the housing.

11. 11. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 10, wherein the plurality of fins of the flow restrictor extend only partially toward the inner surface of the housing of the vibratory powder applicator.

12. 10. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1, wherein the flow restrictor is configured to allow flow of the powder when the actuator is actuated.

13. 10. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 1, further comprising a valve disposed between the powder storage chamber and the outlet, the valve configured to selectively allow or prevent the flow of the powder from the powder storage chamber to the outlet.

14. 14. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 13, wherein the valve comprises a selectively movable gate.

15. 15. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 14, wherein the selectively movable gate is configured to control the flow of the powder.

16. 14. The vibratory powder applicator of claim 13, further comprising a button operatively coupled to the valve, wherein, upon depression of the button, the valve moves to an open configuration to allow the flow of the powder, and wherein, upon release of the button, the valve moves to a closed configuration to prevent the flow of the powder.

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