Inhaler that provides vibration for powder inhalation

Abstract

An inhaler according to one embodiment includes a stick having a chamber for accommodating capsules containing powder and a piercing hole that opens toward the chamber, a holder having an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction, a piercing member that is provided in the insertion groove and that pierces the piercing hole to crush the capsule when the stick is inserted, a vibration member that provides vibration to the piercing member, a puff sensor that detects airflow inside the stick, and a controller that controls the operation of the inhaler.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various embodiments of the present document relate to inhalers.

Background Art

[0002] Recently, there has been an increasing demand for alternative products that overcome the disadvantages of traditional rolled cigarettes. For example, an inhaler is a mechanism for allowing a user to inhale a liquid or gaseous state containing a composition such as a drug through the mouth or nose.

[0003] Such a device includes a chamber for containing an inhalable composition, and the composition moves from the chamber through a channel and ultimately to the mouth or nose, where it can be inhaled by the user.

[0004] The background art described above is what the inventor retained or acquired in the process of deriving the disclosure of this specification, and it cannot necessarily be said to be publicly known technology that was publicly disclosed to the general public before this application.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In an inhaler that uses a composition in powder form, conventional non - electronic inhalers had to rely on the user's breathing to inhale the powder. In this case, the amount of powder released from the inhaler varies according to the user's lung breathing volume, and there was a problem that users whose lung breathing volume could not reach a certain level were restricted in using the inhaler.

[0006] To solve this problem, there was a need for an inhaler that allows smooth inhalation even for users with a weak lung breathing volume, and further allows general users to individually control the powder release state.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The control unit can adjust the vibration intensity of the vibrating member based on the value of the suction pressure detected by the puff sensor.

[0009] The control unit can control the vibrating member so that a preset first vibration intensity is indicated when the value of the suction pressure corresponds to a preset first threshold.

[0010] The control unit can interrupt the vibration of the vibrating member if the value of the suction pressure exceeds a preset second threshold.

[0011] The control unit can control the vibrating member such that, when the value of the intake pressure is between the first threshold and the second threshold, the vibration intensity is inversely proportional to the value of the intake pressure.

[0012] The first threshold may be a value personalized for the user of the inhaler.

[0013] The inhaler may further include a sub-vibrating member that provides vibration to the chamber.

[0014] The inhaler is provided in the insertion groove and further includes an elastic member that is pressurized by the stick once the stick is inserted, and the sub-vibrating member can provide vibration to the chamber of the stick via the elastic member.

[0015] The sub-vibrating member can vibrate the chamber in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction.

[0016] The sub-vibrating member can vibrate the chamber in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

[0017] The stick may include a mouthpiece provided on the opposite side of the chamber, an airflow channel communicating from the chamber to the mouthpiece, and a mesh that partitions the airflow channel and the chamber.

[0018] The stick may further include a sealing member that seals the piercing hole and is crushed by the piercing member when the stick is inserted into the insertion groove.

[0019] A vibration-providing method for powder inhalation performed by an inhaler according to one embodiment includes: a stick provided with a chamber for containing a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber; a holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction; a piercing member provided in the insertion groove for crushing the capsule by penetrating the piercing hole when the stick is inserted; a vibrating member for providing vibration to the piercing member; a puff sensor for detecting airflow inside the stick; and a control unit for controlling the operation of the inhaler, wherein the vibration-providing method for powder inhalation includes: an operation to control the vibrating member so that a preset first vibration intensity is shown when a first value of the inhalation pressure measured by the puff sensor corresponds to a preset first threshold; and an operation to control the vibrating member so that a second vibration intensity inversely proportional to the second value is shown when a second value of the inhalation pressure is greater than or equal to the first threshold.

[0020] The method for providing vibration for powder inhalation may further include an operation of interrupting the vibration of the vibration member when the third value of the inhalation pressure exceeds a preset second threshold value.

[0021] The method for providing vibration for powder inhalation may further include an operation of interrupting the vibration of the vibration member when the fourth value of the inhalation pressure is less than the first threshold value.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] According to one embodiment, an inhaler can provide vibration for powder inhalation.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the effects of the inhaler are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art according to the following description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram of an inhaler according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a diagram schematically showing an inhaler according to one embodiment. [Figure 3a] It is a diagram schematically showing the inside of an inhaler according to one embodiment. [Figure 3b] It is a diagram schematically showing the inside of an inhaler according to one embodiment. [Figure 4a] It is a diagram schematically showing the inside of an inhaler according to one embodiment. [Figure 4b] It is a diagram schematically showing the inside of an inhaler according to one embodiment. [Figure 5a] It is a cross-sectional view of a stick according to one embodiment. [Figure 5b] It is a cross-sectional view of a stick according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart of a method for controlling the vibration of a vibration member according to one embodiment. [Figure 7]This indicates the vibration intensity generated by the suction pressure according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] The terminology used in the various embodiments has been selected as widely used and general terms as possible, taking into account the functions of the present invention, although this may vary depending on the intent of the articulators, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In some cases, the applicant has arbitrarily selected terms, and in those cases, their meaning will be described in detail in the relevant section of the invention description. Therefore, the terms used in the present invention are not merely names of terms, but must be defined based on the meaning of the terms and the overall content of the present invention.

[0026] Throughout the specification, when any part "includes" any component, this does not exclude other components, unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, terms such as "~part" and "~module" used in the specification mean a unit that processes at least one function or operation, which may be embodied in hardware or software, or in a combination of hardware and software.

[0027] As used herein, when an expression such as “at least one of the following” precedes an array of components, it modifies the entire component, not each of the individual components in the array. For example, the expression “at least one of a, b, and c” must be interpreted as including a, b, c, or a and b, a and c, b and c, or a, b, and c.

[0028] In various embodiments, "puff" refers to the user's inhalation, which means drawing the substance into the user's oral cavity, nasal cavity, or lungs through the user's mouth or nose.

[0029] In one embodiment, the inhaler may include a body (or holder) that supports a cartridge (or stick) containing a capsule holding a composition. The cartridge is detachably coupled to the body, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge may be formed or assembled integrally with the body and fixed so as not to be detached by the user. The cartridge may be mounted on the body with the capsule contained inside. However, without limitation, the cartridge may be coupled to the body and the powder or the capsule containing it may be injected into the cartridge.

[0030] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below, with reference to the attached drawings, so that they can be easily implemented by a person skilled in the art. This disclosure may be implemented in a form achievable with the inhalers of the various embodiments described above, or in a variety of different forms, and is not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0031] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an inhaler 100 according to one embodiment.

[0032] Referring to Figure 1, an inhaler 100 according to one embodiment may include at least a portion of the following: control unit 110, detection unit 120, output unit 130, battery 140, heater 150, user input unit 160, memory 170, communication unit 180, and drive unit 190.

[0033] However, the internal structure of the inhaler 100 is not limited to that shown in Figure 1. That is, a person with ordinary skill in the art relating to this embodiment will understand that, depending on the design of the inhaler 100, some of the components shown in Figure 1 may be omitted or new components may be added.

[0034] In one embodiment, the detection unit 120 can detect the state of the inhaler 100 or the state of the area around the inhaler 100 and transmit the detected information to the control unit 110 (or processor). The control unit 110 can control the driving of other components of the inhaler 100 based on the detected information.

[0035] For example, the control unit 110 can perform various functions such as controlling the operation of the heater 150 based on the detection result of the detection unit 120, determining whether a stick (e.g., the stick 210 in Figure 2), a capsule (e.g., the capsule 232 in Figure 3a), a cartridge, or a rolled cigarette can be inserted and controlling the drive unit 190, or displaying a notification on the output unit 130.

[0036] In one embodiment, the detection unit 120 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of a temperature sensor 122, an insertion detection sensor 124, and a puff sensor 126.

[0037] In one embodiment, the temperature sensor 122 detects the temperature at which the heater 150 heats up. The inhaler 100 may include a separate temperature sensor to detect the temperature of the heater 150, or the heater 150 itself may act as the temperature sensor. Alternatively, the temperature sensor 122 may be positioned around the battery 140 to monitor the temperature of the battery 140.

[0038] In one embodiment, the insertion detection sensor 124 detects the insertion and / or removal of a stick (e.g., stick 230 in Figure 2) or a capsule (e.g., capsule 232 in Figures 3a and 3b). For example, the insertion detection sensor 124 includes at least one of a film sensor, a pressure sensor, a light sensor, a resistive sensor, a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, and an infrared sensor, and detects a signal change due to the insertion and / or removal of the stick or capsule.

[0039] In one embodiment, the puff sensor 126 detects the user's puff based on various physical changes in the airflow passage or airflow channel. For example, the puff sensor 126 can detect the user's puff based on any one of the following: temperature changes, flow rate changes, voltage changes, and pressure changes.

[0040] In one embodiment, the detection unit 120 may further include, in addition to the aforementioned sensors, at least one of the following: a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor, a temperature / humidity sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyroscope sensor, a position sensor (e.g., GPS), a proximity sensor, and an RGB (illuminance) sensor. The function of each sensor can be intuitively inferred by an ordinary technician from its name, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0041] In one embodiment, the output unit 130 outputs information regarding the status of the inhaler 100 to the user. The output unit 130 includes, but is not limited to, a display unit 132, a haptic unit 134, and an acoustic output unit 136. When the display unit 132 and the touchpad form a layered structure and constitute a touchscreen, the display unit 132 may be used not only as an output device but also as an input device.

[0042] In one embodiment, the display unit 132 visually provides the user with information about the inhaler 100. For example, the information about the inhaler 100 may include at least some of various pieces of information, such as the charge / discharge status of the inhaler 100's battery 140, the preheating status of the heater 150, the insertion / removal status of the stick or capsule or a state in which the use of the inhaler 100 is restricted (e.g., abnormal item detection), and the vibration status of the drive unit 190, and the display unit 132 outputs such information to the outside. The display unit 132 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel (LCD), an organic light-emitting display panel (OLED), etc. Alternatively, the display unit 132 may display the state of an LED light-emitting element.

[0043] In one embodiment, the haptic unit 134 converts electrical signals into mechanical or electrical stimuli to provide the user with tactile information about the inhaler 100. For example, the haptic unit 134 includes a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0044] In one embodiment, the acoustic output unit 136 provides the user with auditory information regarding the inhaler 100. For example, the acoustic output unit 136 may convert electrical signals into acoustic signals and output them externally.

[0045] In one embodiment, the battery 140 can supply power used to operate the inhaler 100. The battery 140 also supplies power to heat the heater 150.

[0046] In one embodiment, the battery 140 supplies power necessary for the operation of other components provided within the inhaler 100 (e.g., a detection unit 120, an output unit 130, a user input unit 160, a memory 170, and a communication unit 180, or a drive unit 190). The battery 140 may be a rechargeable battery or a disposable battery. For example, the battery 140 may, but is not limited to, a lithium polymer (LiPoly) battery.

[0047] In one embodiment, the heater 150 is powered by the battery 140 to heat the aerosol-generating material. Although not shown in Figure 1, the inhaler 100 may further include a power conversion circuit (e.g., a DC / DC converter) that converts the power from the battery 140 and supplies it to the heater 150. Also, if the inhaler 100 generates aerosols inductively, the inhaler 100 may further include a DC / AC converter that converts the DC power from the battery 140 into AC power.

[0048] In one embodiment, the control unit 110, detection unit 120, output unit 130, user input unit 160, memory 170, communication unit 180, and drive unit 190 may function by being powered by the battery 140. Although not shown in Figure 1, a power conversion circuit, such as an LDO (low dropout) circuit or a voltage regulator circuit, which converts the power of the battery 140 and supplies it to each component may be further included.

[0049] In one embodiment, the heater 150 may be formed from any suitable electrical resistant material. For example, suitable electrical resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, metals or metal alloys, such as titanium, zirconium, tantalum, platinum, nickel, cobalt, chromium, hafnium, niobium, molybdenum, tungsten, tin, gallium, manganese, iron, copper, stainless steel, and nichrome. The heater 150 may also be implemented as, but is not limited to, a metal heating wire, a metal heating plate on which an electrically conductive track is arranged, or a ceramic heating element.

[0050] In one embodiment, the heater 150 may be an induction heating type heater. For example, the heater 150 may include a susceptor that generates heat via a magnetic field applied by a coil and heats the aerosol generating substance.

[0051] In one embodiment, the heater 150 may include a plurality of heaters. For example, the heater 150 may include a first heater for heating the aerosol generating article and a second heater for heating the liquid phase.

[0052] In one embodiment, the user input unit 160 may receive information input from the user or output information to the user. For example, the user input unit 160 may be a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (such as a contact-type capacitive type, a pressure-type resistive type, an infrared detection type, a surface ultrasonic conduction type, an integral-type tension measurement type, or a piezoelectric effect type), a jog wheel, a jog switch, etc., but is not limited thereto. Also, although not shown in Figure 1, the inhaler 100 may further include a connection interface such as a USB (universal serial bus) interface, and can connect to other external devices via the connection interface such as a USB interface to send and receive information or charge the battery 140.

[0053] In one embodiment, the memory 170 is hardware that stores various types of data processed within the inhaler 100, and stores data processed by the control unit 110 and data to be processed. The memory 170 includes at least one type of storage medium, such as flash memory type, hard disk type, multimedia card micro type, card type memory (e.g., SD or xD memory), RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0054] In one embodiment, the memory 170 stores data such as the operating time of the inhaler 100, the maximum number of puffs, the current number of puffs, at least one temperature profile, and the user's smoking pattern.

[0055] In one embodiment, the communication unit 180 includes at least one component for communication with other electronic devices. For example, the communication unit 180 includes a short-range communication unit 182 and a wireless communication unit 184.

[0056] In one embodiment, the short-range wireless communication unit 182 includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® communication unit, a BLE (Bluetooth® Low Energy) communication unit, a Near Field Communication unit, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication unit, a Zigbee® communication unit, an IrDA (Infrared Data Association) communication unit, a WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication unit, a UWB (Ultra Wideband) communication unit, an Ant+ communication unit, and the like.

[0057] In one embodiment, the wireless communication unit 184 includes, but is not limited to, a cellular network communication unit, an Internet communication unit, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN) communication unit. The wireless communication unit 184 may also verify and authenticate the inhaler 100 within the communication network using subscriber information (e.g., an International Mobile Subscriber Identifier (IMSI)).

[0058] In one embodiment, the drive unit 190 may include various drive devices to assist the user's inhaler 100 suction operation. For example, the drive unit 190 may include a vibrating member 191 that can assist in the transmission of powder in the inhaler 100.

[0059] In one embodiment, the vibrating member 191 may be implemented as an electronic vibrator, which can generate vibrations in response to an applied voltage (e.g., an AC voltage). However, the drive unit 190 may further include elements such as a motor, a shaft, a plurality of pinions, or a hydraulic system.

[0060] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 controls the overall operation of the inhaler 100. In one embodiment, the control unit 110 may include at least one processor. The processor may be embodied as an array of logic gates, or as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor and memory containing a program that can be executed by this microprocessor. It may also be embodied in other forms of hardware, which should be understandable to those with ordinary skill in the art to which this embodiment belongs.

[0061] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 can control the temperature of the heater 150 by controlling the supply of power from the battery 140 to the heater 150. For example, the control unit 110 may control the power supply by controlling the switching of a switching element between the battery 140 and the heater 150. In a different example, a direct heating circuit may control the power supply to the heater 150 in response to a control command from the control unit 110.

[0062] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 may analyze the results detected by the detection unit 120 and control the processing to be performed thereafter. For example, the control unit 110 may control the power supplied to the heater 150 so that the operation of the heater 150 or the drive unit 190 is disclosed or terminated based on the results detected by the detection unit 120.

[0063] For example, the control unit 110 can control the amount of power supplied to the heater 150 and the duration of power supply based on the results detected by the detection unit 120, so that the heater 150 can heat up to a predetermined temperature or maintain an appropriate temperature.

[0064] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 controls the output unit 130 based on the results detected by the detection unit 120. For example, when the number of puffs counted via the puff sensor 126 reaches a preset number, the control unit 110 can notify the user that the inhaler 100 will immediately terminate via at least one of the display unit 132, the haptic unit 134, and the acoustic output unit 136. Alternatively, for example, the puff sensor 126 can detect the user's inhalation state, and the control unit 110 can control the driving of the vibrating member 191 of the drive unit 190 based on this. The control unit 110 can adjust the vibration intensity of the vibrating member 191 based on the inhalation pressure value detected by the puff sensor 126. For example, the control unit 110 may adjust the vibration intensity by adjusting the vibration period and the magnitude of the vibration of the vibrating member 191.

[0065] In one embodiment, the control unit 110 can control the power supply time and / or power supply amount to the heater 150 according to the state of the stick or capsule detected by the detection unit 120.

[0066] One embodiment may also be embodied in the form of a recording medium containing computer-executable instruction words, such as a program module executed by a computer. Computer-readable media may be any available medium accessible by a computer, and include all volatile and non-volatile media, separable and non-separable media. Computer-readable media may also include all computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include all volatile and non-volatile, separable and non-separable media embodied in any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instruction words, data structures, program modules, or other data. Communication media typically include computer-readable instruction words, data structures, program modules, or other data such as modulated data signals, or other transmission mechanisms, and include any information transmission medium.

[0067] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an inhaler 200 according to one embodiment.

[0068] Referring to Figure 2, an inhaler 200 according to one embodiment includes at least one of a holder 210 and a stick 230.

[0069] In one embodiment, the holder 210 can be configured in the shape of a cylinder or a polygonal column. The holder 210 has an insertion groove 215 into which the stick 230 is inserted, and the stick 230 may be inserted into the insertion groove 215 in a first direction (for example, the -Y direction).

[0070] In one embodiment, the holder 210 includes a first surface 211, a second surface 212, and a side surface 213. An insertion groove 215 is formed on the first surface 211, and the second surface 212 may be the surface opposite to the first surface 211. A side surface 213 may be formed between the first surface 211 and the second surface 212.

[0071] In one embodiment, the insertion groove 215 may be composed of a recess formed in a concave shape on the first surface 211 toward the second surface 212, or it may be formed as an open area in at least a portion of the first surface 211.

[0072] For example, the insertion groove 215 may have a shape that extends along the longitudinal axis of the holder 210 (e.g., ±Y direction). The stick 230 is inserted into the holder 210 in the direction through which the insertion groove 215 passes (e.g., -Y direction, or "first direction").

[0073] In one embodiment, an inlet (not shown) may be formed between the outside of the holder 210 and the insertion groove 215, allowing air from outside the holder 210 to flow into the insertion groove 215.

[0074] Although not shown in the drawings, the holder 210 may house various components of the inhaler 200. For example, the holder 210 may house at least some of the control unit (e.g., the control unit 110 in Figure 1), at least one sensor (e.g., the detection unit 120 in Figure 1), and a battery (e.g., the battery 140 in Figure 1).

[0075] In one embodiment, the stick 230 is connected to a holder 210 which is cylindrical or polygonal in shape and has a size and shape that allows it to be inserted into the insertion groove 215 of the holder 210. The stick 230 contains powder P inside.

[0076] In one embodiment, the mouthpiece 231 can be provided on one side of the stick 230. For example, the mouthpiece 231 may be provided in a direction opposite to the area in which the stick 230 is inserted into the insertion groove 215 (e.g., the chamber 233 in Figure 3a). The user can inhale air by applying negative pressure to the stick 230. For example, the user may inhale powder P or air or aerosol containing powder P while biting their mouth over the mouthpiece 231.

[0077] Figure 3a is a schematic diagram showing the inside of an inhaler 200 according to one embodiment, and Figure 3b is a schematic diagram showing the inside of an inhaler 200 according to one embodiment.

[0078] Specifically, Figures 3a and 3b are diagrams relating to the interior of area A shown in Figure 2, where Figure 3a shows the stick 230 partially inserted into or being inserted into the insertion groove 215 of the holder 210, and Figure 3b shows the stick 230 substantially fully inserted into the insertion groove 215 of the holder 210.

[0079] Referring to Figures 3a and 3b, the inhaler 200 according to one embodiment may include at least a portion of the piercing member 220, the elastic member 225, the chamber 233, and the piercing hole 234.

[0080] In one embodiment, the stick 230 includes a chamber 233 for housing the capsule 232. The chamber 233 may be a portion of the stick 230 that is inserted into the insertion groove 215. The chamber 233 may be a space for housing or storing the capsule 232, or a space for restricting the movement of the capsule 232.

[0081] In one embodiment, capsule 232 contains powder P inside. Powder P may be tobacco extract in the form of small particles, or powder P may be a composition or functional substance containing pharmacological substances such as caffeine, taurine, aspirin, sedatives, hypnotics, bronchodilators, vaccines, or substances such as free nicotine, nicotine salt. However, this is merely illustrative, and the powder P inside capsule 232 may be replaced with a liquid, a gas, or a combination of some of these.

[0082] In one embodiment, the piercing hole 234 is an opening that opens from the outside of the stick 30 toward the chamber 233. The piercing hole 234 may be formed on the surface of the stick 230 facing the insertion groove 215, preferably in the region facing the piercing member 220. The piercing hole 234 may have a diameter larger than or the same as the circumference of the piercing member 220.

[0083] In one embodiment, the stick 230 includes an airflow channel 235 that communicates from the chamber 233 to a mouthpiece (for example, the mouthpiece 231 in Figure 2). The airflow channel 235 is a passage through which air containing powder P flows, and the airflow channel 235 and the chamber 233 can be separated by a mesh 236.

[0084] In one embodiment, the mesh 236 allows powder P and air to pass through, while restricting the passage of capsules 232 or other foreign matter. Alternatively, the mesh 236 filters out a portion of the powder P or prevents the powder P from clumping. For example, the diameter of a single hole in the mesh 236 may be 5 micrometers.

[0085] In one embodiment, when the capsule 232 is crushed, at least a portion of the powder P inside the capsule 232 is released into the chamber 233. When the user inhales air from the stick 230 through the mouthpiece 231, the powder P passes through the mesh 236 and the airflow channel 235 to the mouthpiece 231 and is inhaled by the user.

[0086] In one embodiment, the stick 230 may be disposable and may be replaced with another stick 230 after the powder P is consumed. Alternatively, the stick 230 may be reusable and, once the powder P is consumed, the stick 230 may be refilled with capsule 232 or powder P and reused.

[0087] In one embodiment, the piercing member 220 may be provided in the insertion groove 215 and protrude in the direction toward the stick 230 from the insertion groove 215 (e.g., the +Y direction). The piercing member 220 may crush the capsule 232. For example, if the stick 230 is inserted into the insertion groove 215 in a first direction (e.g., the -Y direction), at least a portion of the piercing member 220 penetrates the piercing hole 234 and is inserted into the chamber 233 of the stick 230, and the piercing member 220 partially crushes the capsule 232.

[0088] In one embodiment, the end portion of the piercing member 220 has a sharp or pointed shape; for example, the piercing member 220 may be a needle or a sting. The end portion of the piercing member 220 crushes a portion of the capsule 232, forming a perforation in the capsule 232. The capsule 232 may release powder P into the chamber 233 through the perforation created by the piercing member 220.

[0089] In one embodiment, the elastic member 225 can be provided in the insertion groove 215. When the stick 230 is inserted into the insertion groove 215, the elastic member 225 is pressed and deformed (e.g., compressed) by the stick 230. Once the elastic member 225 is deformed, it presses the stick 230 in a direction opposite to the first direction (e.g., the +Y direction) by elastic force. The elastic member 225 may be composed of a coil spring that applies elastic force.

[0090] Figure 4a is a schematic diagram showing the inside of an inhaler 200 according to one embodiment.

[0091] Referring to Figure 4a, an inhaler 200 according to one embodiment includes a vibrating member 250 (for example, the vibrating member 191 in Figure 1).

[0092] In one embodiment, when the capsule 232 is crushed by the piercing member 220, a perforation is formed in the capsule 232 that communicates with the chamber 233, and at least a portion of the powder P inside the capsule 232 is released into the chamber 233 through the perforation. The powder P released into the chamber 233 passes through the mesh 236 and is transmitted to the airflow channel 235, passes through the airflow channel 235 and then through the mouthpiece (for example, the mouthpiece 231 in Figure 2) and is inhaled by the user.

[0093] In one embodiment, factors such as the amount of powder P that the user can inhale may also change based on various parameters relating to the powder P released from the capsule 232 (for example, the amount of powder P released per unit time, the density of powder P in the air passing through the airflow channel 235, or the degree of diffusion of the released powder P).

[0094] In one embodiment, by controlling the amount of powder P released from the capsule 232 per unit time via the vibrating member 250 (hereinafter referred to as "amount of powder P released"), the inhaler 200 can provide powder P to the user in a manner that suits the user's conditions, usage environment, or user preference.

[0095] In one embodiment, the vibrating member 250 can provide vibration to the piercing member 220. Alternatively, the vibrating member 250 may directly or indirectly vibrate at least one of the capsule 232, powder P, or chamber 233. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, an embodiment of the inhaler 200 will be described with reference to the drawings, with reference to the vibrating member 250 vibrating the piercing member 220.

[0096] In one embodiment, the vibrating member 250 can be realized as an electronic vibrator that generates vibration when a voltage (e.g., AC voltage) is applied. However, in actual implementation, it is not limited to this and can be realized with various structures and configurations that can provide vibration to the piercing member 220.

[0097] In one embodiment, the vibrating member 250 assists in the release of powder P from the capsule 232 by applying vibration to the piercing member 220. When the vibrating member 250 vibrates the piercing member 220, the perforations formed in the capsule 232 become larger, or vibrations are transmitted to the capsule 232 or the powder P, increasing the amount of powder P released.

[0098] In one embodiment, the vibrating member 250 can vibrate the piercing member 220 in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction (e.g., the + / -Y direction) in the direction in which the stick 230 is inserted into the holder 210, i.e., the -Y direction.

[0099] In one embodiment, when the vibrating member 250 vibrates substantially horizontally in the first direction, it is efficient for releasing powder P located or stagnating between the capsule 232 and the piercing member 220. Alternatively, it has the advantage of not increasing the diameter of the piercing hole 234 to ensure the vibration radius of the piercing member 220, and prevents powder P from being released to the outside of the stick 230 through the piercing hole 234. Alternatively, the vibration of the vibrating member 250 can be mainly transmitted to the piercing member 220 and capsule 232, reducing or preventing vibration to the stick 230 or holder 210.

[0100] In one embodiment, the vibrating member 250 can vibrate the piercing member 220 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., the -Y direction) in the direction in which the stick 230 is inserted into the holder 210, i.e., in the XZ plane direction. The vibration of the piercing member 220 is transmitted to the capsule 232, and the vibration of the capsule 232 can promote the release of powder P.

[0101] In one embodiment, when the vibrating member 250 vibrates in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction, the piercing member 220 can increase the size of the puncture, or the piercing member 220 can effectively release the powder P by securing a space between the capsule 232 and the piercing member 220. Alternatively, the capsule 232 repeatedly collides with the chamber 233 due to the vibration, thereby further increasing the amount of powder P released.

[0102] In one embodiment, the vibrating member 250 can vibrate the piercing member 220 in a substantially horizontal and substantially vertical direction in the first direction. By vibrating the capsule 232 three-dimensionally via the piercing member 220, the vibrating member 250 can further increase the amount of powder P released compared to simple unidirectional reciprocating motion.

[0103] In various embodiments, the inhaler 200 may need to reduce or increase the amount or speed of powder P released from capsule 232 depending on various factors such as the user's breathing rate, or according to the user's preference. Relying solely on a single-size perforation makes it difficult to meet the demands of various environments and users.

[0104] For example, if the perforations are large, a large amount of powder P is released in a short period of time, and the density of powder P inhaled by the user becomes irregular or increases significantly. Alternatively, if the perforations are small, it becomes difficult to release powder P, and users with low lung capacity may have difficulty inhaling powder P. The vibrating member 250 can control the efficient release of powder P from the capsule 232 by providing vibration to the capsule 232.

[0105] In various embodiments of this document, the inhaler 200 can control the user's powder inhalation density by forming relatively small perforations in the capsule 232 via the piercing member 220 and controlling the amount of powder P released from the capsule 232 per unit time via the vibrating member 250.

[0106] Figure 4b is a schematic diagram showing the inside of an inhaler 200 according to one embodiment.

[0107] Referring to Figure 4b, an inhaler 200 according to one embodiment includes a sub-vibrating member 255 (for example, the vibrating member 191 in Figure 1).

[0108] In explaining Figure 4b, we will omit any information that overlaps with the above-mentioned content regarding the inhaler 200.

[0109] In one embodiment, the sub-vibrating member 255 can provide vibration to the chamber 233. By directly or indirectly vibrating the chamber 233, the sub-vibrating member 255 can assist the movement of powder P released into the chamber 233 to the airflow channel 235. Alternatively, the sub-vibrating member 255 can assist the vibrating member 250 to promote the release of powder P from the capsule 232.

[0110] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4b, the sub-vibrating member 255 can be connected to the elastic member 225 and provide vibration to the chamber 233 via the elastic member 225. However, the sub-vibrating member 255 may be implemented in various structures for transmitting vibration to the chamber 233. For example, the sub-vibrating member 255 may be directly connected to the stick 230 or placed in the holder 210 and have a structure that applies impact to the stick 230.

[0111] In one embodiment, the chamber 233 can provide kinetic energy to the powder P within the chamber 233 by vibration. Alternatively, the vibration of the chamber 233 causes the powder P to diffuse evenly and move along the airflow. Alternatively, the vibration of the chamber 233 can be transmitted to the capsule 232, and the sub-vibrating member 255 can vibrate the capsule 232 to promote the release of the powder P.

[0112] In one embodiment, the sub-vibrating member 255 can vibrate the chamber 233 in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction (e.g., the + / -Y direction) in the direction in which the stick 230 is inserted into the holder 210, i.e., the first direction (e.g., the -Y direction). In this case, the elastic member 255 can assist and enhance the vibration of the sub-vibrating member 255. Alternatively, the vibration of the chamber 233 in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction is advantageous for moving the powder P remaining on the bottom surface of the chamber 233, and there is no need to separately increase the opening of the insertion groove 215 for the vibration of the chamber 233.

[0113] In one embodiment, the sub-vibrating member 255 can vibrate the chamber 233 in the direction in which the stick 230 is inserted into the holder 210, i.e., substantially perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., the XZ plane). In this case, the chamber 233 can repeatedly strike the capsule 232, effectively inducing the release of the powder P. Alternatively, by vibrating the chamber 233 substantially perpendicular to the first direction, the powder P can be evenly diffused in the substantially horizontal direction of the chamber 233.

[0114] In one embodiment, the sub-vibrating member 255 can vibrate the chamber 233 in a substantially horizontal and substantially vertical direction in the first direction. By vibrating the chamber 233 three-dimensionally, the sub-vibrating member 255 can further increase the amount of powder P released compared to simple unidirectional reciprocating motion.

[0115] In one embodiment, a processor (for example, the processor 110 in Figure 1) can acquire information about the driving of the inhaler 200 from various types of sensors (for example, the detection unit 120 in Figure 1), and based on this, can change various factors such as the frequency, vibration intensity, and vibration duration of the vibrating member 250 and / or sub-vibrating member 255 to control their respective vibrations.

[0116] For example, the processor 110 receives information about the airflow inside the stick 230 via a puff sensor (e.g., puff sensor 126 in Figure 1), and if it determines that there is insufficient airflow, the processor 110 can increase the vibration intensity or frequency of the vibrating member 250 and / or sub-vibrating member 255 to increase the amount of powder P released.

[0117] Alternatively, the processor 110 can receive a separate input signal from a user input unit (for example, the user input unit 160 in Figure 1) or a communication unit (for example, the communication unit 180 in Figure 1), and control the vibration of the vibrating member 250 and / or sub-vibrating member 255 based on this signal.

[0118] For example, the processor 110 can control the vibration of the vibrating member 250 and / or sub-vibrating member 255 based on various factors such as the user's lung capacity, user preferences, and usage environment. The inhalers 200 of various embodiments of this document can assist the user in smoothly inhaling powder P and can provide a user-customized inhaler 200.

[0119] Figure 5a is a cross-sectional view of the stick 230 according to one embodiment, and Figure 5b is a cross-sectional view of the stick 230 according to one embodiment. Specifically, Figures 5a and 5b are cross-sectional views of a portion of the stick 230 when separated from the holder 210, respectively.

[0120] Referring to Figures 5a and 5b, the stick 230 includes at least one of the sealing member 237 or the door 238.

[0121] As shown in Figure 5a, the sealing member 237 can seal the piercing hole 234. The sealing member 237 may be crushed by the piercing member 220 during the process of inserting the stick 230 into the insertion groove 215. For example, the stick 230 may be disposable. Alternatively, the stick 230 may be reusable and can be replaced and reused after the sealing member 237 and capsule 232 have been crushed.

[0122] In one embodiment, the sealing member 237 can protect the chamber 233 from water or foreign matter entering the chamber 233 during the manufacturing and transportation of the stick 230. Alternatively, the sealing member 237 can limit the area of ​​the piercing holes 234 that are broken by the piercing member 220, thereby preventing powder P from being released to the outside of the stick 230 through the piercing holes 234.

[0123] As shown in Figure 5b, the door 238 may selectively open and close the piercing hole 234. The door 238 may be open before or while the stick 230 is inserted into the insertion groove 215. The door 238 moves by the door hinge 239.

[0124] For example, the door hinge 239 may push the door 238 in a substantially horizontal direction (e.g., the XZ plane direction) or tilt it in a substantially vertical direction (e.g., the + / -Y direction).

[0125] In one embodiment, the door 238 may be open when the inhaler 200 is in use or ready for use, and closed when it is not in use. The door 238 can protect the chamber 233 from water or foreign matter entering the chamber 233 during the manufacturing and transport of the sticks 230. Alternatively, used or crushed capsules 232 in the chamber 233 can be replaced through the door 238.

[0126] In one embodiment, a processor (for example, the processor 110 in Figure 1) can acquire information about the coupling of the stick 230 from various types of sensors (for example, the detection unit in Figure 1) and control the driving of the door hinge 239 based on that information.

[0127] For example, the processor 110 can detect whether the stick 230 has been inserted into the insertion groove 215 via an insertion detection sensor (e.g., insertion detection sensor 124 in Figure 1), and based on this, control the door hinge 239 to open the door 238 so that the piercing member 220 can pass through the piercing hole 234. Alternatively, the door 238 may be opened and closed manually by the user. For example, the user may open and close the door 238 directly, or the inhaler 200 may have a separate switch (not shown) connected to the door 238, and the user may open and close the door 238 by operating the switch (not shown).

[0128] Figure 6 is a flowchart of a method for controlling the vibration of a vibrating member according to one embodiment.

[0129] The following operations 610-640 may be performed via an inhaler (for example, inhaler 100 in Figure 1 or inhaler 200 in Figure 2).

[0130] In operation 610, the inhaler's control unit (for example, the control unit 110 in Figure 1) vibrates a vibrating member (vibrating member 191 in Figure 1, or vibrating member 250 in Figure 2) such that a first vibration intensity is indicated when a first value of the suction pressure corresponds to a preset first threshold. For example, the first value of the suction pressure may be a value measured by a puff sensor (for example, the puff sensor 126 in Figure 1). When a user applies negative pressure to a stick (for example, the stick 230 in Figure 2) to inhale air, an airflow is generated inside the stick, and the puff sensor can detect the generated airflow. The puff sensor can measure the first value of the suction pressure as the intensity of the negative pressure. The puff sensor can continuously measure the value of the suction pressure, and in this disclosure, expressions such as "first value," "second value," "third value," and "fourth value" are used below to distinguish between the values ​​of the suction pressure.

[0131] The control unit does not vibrate the vibrating member from the moment the user begins applying negative pressure to the stick until the suction pressure reaches a preset first threshold. When the suction pressure increases and reaches (or corresponds to) the preset first threshold, the control unit can vibrate the vibrating member to indicate a first vibration intensity. For example, the first vibration intensity may be the maximum vibration intensity. The first vibration intensity is determined in relation to the first threshold. Since the vibration of the vibrating member is provided to assist the user inhaling powder, a weaker suction pressure results in a stronger vibration output.

[0132] According to one embodiment, the first threshold and the first vibration intensity can be personalized for the user. For example, the user may adjust the first threshold and the first vibration intensity, respectively, via the inhaler or a user terminal communicating with the inhaler. The inhaler provides the user with a test inhalation mode, which measures the user's inhalation pressure changes (or trajectory) and suggests (or adjusts) the first threshold and the first vibration intensity to the user based on the measured changes in inhalation pressure. The first threshold and the first vibration intensity are set, respectively, to provide the user with an appropriate amount of powder to inhale. For example, the longer the user's total inhalation time detected via the test inhalation mode, the more the vibration intensity decreases in proportion to the total inhalation time.

[0133] In operation 620, the inhaler control unit controls the vibrating member so that a second vibration intensity inversely proportional to the second value is displayed when the second value of the suction pressure is greater than or equal to the first threshold. For example, the vibration intensity displayed gradually decreases as the value of the suction pressure, which is greater than or equal to the first threshold, gradually increases. The gradual decrease in vibration intensity as the value of the suction pressure gradually increases is to provide the user with a constant (or appropriate) amount of powder suction.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the vibration intensity can be preset so that it decreases linearly with respect to the linearly increasing suction pressure.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the vibration intensity can be preset to decrease nonlinearly with respect to the linearly increasing suction pressure.

[0136] In operation 630, the inhaler control unit interrupts the vibration of the vibrating member if the third value of the suction pressure exceeds a preset second threshold. The reason the vibration of the vibrating member is interrupted when the value of the suction pressure is above a certain magnitude is that the amount of powder drawn in by the user's negative pressure satisfies the appropriate supply amount, and therefore there is no need to supply additional powder to the user via vibration.

[0137] According to one embodiment, if the intake pressure value is above a first threshold but does not exceed a second threshold, the vibration intensity of the vibrating member corresponding to the intake pressure value is continuously displayed. In other words, even if operation 620 is performed, operation 630 may not be performed depending on the intake pressure value.

[0138] According to one embodiment, when the intake pressure value exceeds a second threshold and then decreases to or below the second threshold, the vibration intensity of the vibrating member corresponding to the decreased intake pressure value is continuously displayed. In other words, even when operation 630 is performed, operation 620 may be performed depending on the intake pressure value.

[0139] In operation 640, the inhaler control unit interrupts the vibration of the vibrating member when the fourth value of the suction pressure is below the first threshold. For example, when the user completes the powder suction operation, the suction pressure value is small. If the suction pressure value is below a certain magnitude, the vibration of the vibrating member is interrupted, which means that the user has completed the suction and therefore there is no need to supply the user with additional powder through vibration.

[0140] Figure 7 shows the vibration intensity generated by the suction pressure according to one embodiment.

[0141] In one embodiment, when a user inhales powder, the inhalation pressure change trajectory 710 is represented on an axis with respect to time and an axis with respect to inhalation pressure. For example, the inhalation pressure change trajectory 710 may have a form in which it increases nonlinearly with time and decreases nonlinearly again at its maximum value. For example, according to the inhalation pressure change trajectory 710, a first threshold is shown at time t1, a second threshold is shown at time t2, a second threshold is shown at time t3, and a first threshold is shown at time t4. The maximum value of the inhalation pressure change trajectory 710 is shown between time t2 and time t3.

[0142] According to one embodiment, a vibration intensity trajectory 720 is shown, which is indicated by a vibrating member based on the intake pressure change trajectory 710. According to the vibration intensity trajectory 720, no vibration is shown in the section before time t1, which is the section in which the intake pressure value is less than the first threshold. According to the vibration intensity trajectory 720, the maximum vibration intensity v is at time t1, which is the time in which the intake pressure value corresponds to the first threshold. max The vibration intensity is shown to be inversely proportional to the increasing intake pressure between time t1 and time t2. According to the vibration intensity trajectory 720, the vibration is interrupted in the interval from time t2 to t3, which is the interval in which the intake pressure value exceeds the second threshold. According to the vibration intensity trajectory 720, in the interval from time t3 to t4, which is the interval in which the intake pressure value is below the second threshold and above the first threshold, the vibration intensity is shown to be inversely proportional to the decreasing intake pressure value. According to the vibration intensity trajectory 720, the maximum vibration intensity v is at time t4, which is the time in which the intake pressure value corresponds to the first threshold. max This is shown. Although Figure 7 shows that the maximum vibration intensity shown at time t4 is the same as the maximum vibration intensity shown at time t4, in the actual example, the maximum vibration intensity shown at time t1 and the maximum vibration intensity shown at time t4 may be different. According to the vibration intensity trajectory 720, no vibration is shown in the section after time t4, which is the section in which the value of the intake pressure is less than the first threshold.

[0143] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and a person with ordinary skill in the art can apply various technical modifications and variations based on the above. For example, the described techniques may be performed in a different order than described, and / or the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, and other components may be combined or combined in a different manner than described, or substituted or replaced by other components or equivalents, and still achieve appropriate results. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is defined by the claims and equivalents, etc.

Claims

1. Inhaler, A stick comprising a chamber for containing a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber, A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction, A piercing member is provided in the insertion groove, and when the stick is inserted, it penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule, A vibrating member that provides vibration to the piercing member, A puff sensor that detects the airflow inside the stick, A control unit that controls the operation of the inhaler, Includes, The control unit controls the vibrating member of the inhaler such that, when the value of the suction pressure detected by the puff sensor is between a preset first threshold and a second threshold, the vibration intensity is inversely proportional to the value of the suction pressure.

2. The inhaler according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the vibrating member so that a preset first vibration intensity is indicated when the value of the suction pressure corresponds to the first threshold.

3. The inhaler according to claim 1, wherein the control unit interrupts the vibration of the vibrating member when the value of the suction pressure exceeds the second threshold.

4. The inhaler according to claim 2, wherein the first threshold is a value personalized for the user of the inhaler.

5. The inhaler according to claim 1, further comprising a sub-vibrating member that provides vibration to the chamber.

6. The present invention further includes an elastic member provided in the insertion groove, which is pressurized by the stick once the stick is inserted, The inhaler according to claim 5, wherein the sub-vibrating member provides vibration to the chamber of the stick via the elastic member.

7. The inhaler according to claim 5, wherein the sub-vibrating member vibrates the chamber in a direction substantially horizontal to the first direction.

8. The inhaler according to claim 5, wherein the sub-vibrating member vibrates the chamber in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

9. An inhaler, A stick comprising a chamber for containing a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber, A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction, A piercing member is provided in the insertion groove, and when the stick is inserted, it penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule, A vibrating member that provides vibration to the piercing member, A puff sensor that detects the airflow inside the stick, A control unit that controls the operation of the inhaler, Includes, The aforementioned stick is A mouthpiece provided on the opposite side of the chamber, An airflow channel communicating from the chamber to the mouthpiece, The mesh that partitions the airflow channel and the chamber, Inhalers, including

10. The inhaler according to claim 1, further comprising a sealing member which seals the piercing hole and is broken by the piercing member when the stick is inserted into the insertion groove.

11. A vibration-providing method for powder inhalation performed by an inhaler, The aforementioned inhaler is A stick comprising a chamber for containing a capsule containing powder and a piercing hole opening toward the chamber, A holder including an insertion groove into which the stick is inserted in a first direction, A piercing member is provided in the insertion groove, and when the stick is inserted, it penetrates the piercing hole and crushes the capsule, A vibrating member that provides vibration to the piercing member, A puff sensor that detects the airflow inside the stick, A control unit that controls the operation of the inhaler, Includes, The vibration-providing method for powder inhalation is, When the first value of the suction pressure measured by the puff sensor corresponds to a preset first threshold, the vibrating member is controlled so that a preset first vibration intensity is indicated. When the second value of the suction pressure is greater than or equal to the first threshold, the vibrating member is controlled such that a second vibration intensity inversely proportional to the second value is exhibited. A vibration-providing method for powder inhalation, including a method for providing vibrations.

12. The method for providing vibration for powder inhalation according to claim 11, further comprising the action of interrupting the vibration of the vibrating member when the third value of the inhalation pressure exceeds a preset second threshold.

13. A method for providing vibration for powder inhalation according to claim 11, further comprising the action of interrupting the vibration of the vibrating member when the fourth value of the inhalation pressure is less than the first threshold.

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