Powder inhalation system

Abstract

Provided is a powder inhalation system including a storage unit for storing a powder for inhalation, and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder. This powder inhalation system has: a mouthpiece having an inhalation opening; and a transport path for transporting the powder in the storage unit toward the inhalation opening. The powder inhaler has a chamber in which the storing unit is disposed, and a perforation element that is configured so as to form an opening in the storing unit disposed in the chamber. A flavor inhaler system has an obstruction part that is disposed in the transport path and obstructs the flow of a part of the powder during inhalation by the user.

Description

Powder Vacuum System

[0001] The present invention relates to a powder inhalation system.

[0002] Inhalers for inhaling powder containing nicotine or the like are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The inhaler disclosed in Patent Document 1 can supply the powder in the capsule to a user by forming an opening in the capsule with a needle-shaped member.

[0003] WO 2022 / 195480

[0004] However, in the inhalers described in Patent Document 1 and the like, the powder in the capsule may absorb moisture and harden, and the hardened powder may be inhaled by the user.

[0005] In view of the above, one object of the present invention is to prevent clumps of powder from reaching the user's mouth.

[0006] According to a first aspect, there is provided a powder inhalation system including a container for containing a powder to be inhaled, and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder, the powder inhaler having a chamber in which the container is disposed, the container having a fragile portion having a lower breaking strength than other portions of the container.

[0007] According to the first aspect, the storage section has a fragile portion with a relatively low breaking strength, so that when an opening is formed in the storage section with a piercing element such as a needle, the fragile portion is broken, thereby preventing variation in the position or size of the opening.

[0008] The powder inhalation system may include a piercing element disposed in the chamber and configured to form an opening in the receptacle portion, the piercing element being configured to form an opening in the weakened portion.

[0009] In this case, the piercing element can easily form an opening in the weakened part of the container arranged in the chamber.

[0010] The shape of the weakened portion may be substantially the same as or larger than the cross-sectional shape of the piercing element taken perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0011] In this case, the piercing element can form an opening only in the weakened portion, in other words, it is possible to prevent an opening from being formed in a portion of the container that is not the weakened portion.

[0012] The storage section may have an outer shape of an ellipse or a rounded rectangle when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction thereof, and the fragile section may be provided on the major axis of the ellipse or the rounded rectangle.

[0013] In this case, since the weakened portion is located at the end face (vertex) of the container, an opening can be easily formed at the end face of the container, and as a result, the powder contained in the container can be easily discharged through the opening, thereby preventing the powder from remaining in the container.

[0014] In a cross section perpendicular to the insertion direction of the accommodating portion into the chamber, the outer diameter of the piercing element in the cross section may be larger than the difference between the inner diameter of the chamber and the outer diameter of the accommodating portion.

[0015] In this case, even if the position of the accommodation portion within the chamber is shifted in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction, the piercing element can form an opening in the fragile portion.

[0016] The powder inhaler may have a sensor that detects the pressure applied to the piercing element, and a control unit that determines whether the piercing element has formed an opening in the fragile portion based on the pressure detected by the sensor.

[0017] In this case, the control unit can determine whether an opening was successfully formed in the fragile portion of the container, and if an opening was not successfully formed in the fragile portion, the user can be notified of this by, for example, the powder inhaler emitting vibration, sound, light, etc. If an opening was not successfully formed in the fragile portion, the user can take appropriate measures, such as replacing the container.

[0018] The control unit may determine that the piercing element has formed an opening in the weakened portion when the pressure detected by the sensor is equal to or less than a predetermined value.

[0019] In this case, the user can be notified that the perforating element has formed an opening in the fragile portion by, for example, the powder inhaler emitting vibration, sound, light, etc. The user can start inhaling after confirming that an opening has been formed in the fragile portion.

[0020] The weakened portion may be formed of a different material than the rest of the housing portion.

[0021] In this case, the breaking strength of the weakened portion can be made lower than that of the other portions by using different materials.

[0022] The thickness of the weakened portion may be thinner than the thickness of the other portion of the housing portion.

[0023] In this case, the difference in thickness can make the breaking strength of the fragile portion lower than that of the other portions.

[0024] The housing portion may include a first portion and a second portion configured to be detachable from the first portion, and the fragile portion may be provided in either the first portion or the second portion.

[0025] In this case, the container that contains the powder can be easily manufactured.

[0026] The entirety of either the first portion or the second portion may be the weakened portion.

[0027] In this case, the entire material constituting the housing portion, rather than only a portion thereof, can be formed as the fragile portion, so that the first portion or the second portion can be easily manufactured.

[0028] The housing may be removably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler.

[0029] In this case, the container can be removed from the chamber after use and discarded or replaced.

[0030] The container may be integrally formed with the powder inhaler.

[0031] In this case, the entire powder inhaler can be discarded or replaced after the powder has been inhaled.

[0032] The powder inhalation system may include a mouthpiece having an inhalation port, and a transport path that transports the powder in the storage portion toward the inhalation port.

[0033] In this case, when the user inhales through the mouthpiece, the powder in the container can be supplied into the user's mouth via the transport path.

[0034] The powder inhalation system may have a cartridge that holds the container and is detachable from the powder inhaler, and a portion of the cartridge may extend outside the powder inhaler when the container is positioned in the chamber.

[0035] In this case, the used container can be discarded or replaced together with the cartridge containing the container, and the user can grasp the part of the cartridge that extends outside the powder inhaler and remove the cartridge from the powder inhaler, making it easy to discard or replace the cartridge and container.

[0036] According to a second aspect, there is provided a powder inhalation system including a container for containing a powder to be inhaled, and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder, the powder inhaler having a chamber in which the container is disposed, the container containing a desiccant different from the powder.

[0037] According to the second aspect, it is possible to prevent the powder inside the container from absorbing moisture and hardening.

[0038] The hygroscopicity of the desiccant may be higher than the hygroscopicity of the powder.

[0039] In this case, the desiccant can effectively prevent the powder from absorbing moisture. The hygroscopicity can be measured, for example, by the loss on drying method.

[0040] The chamber may include a piercing element configured to form an opening in the receiving portion.

[0041] In this case, the piercing element can easily form an opening in the receptacle arranged in the chamber.

[0042] The particle size of the desiccant may be larger than the opening formed in the container.

[0043] In this case, the desiccant is prevented from being discharged from the opening formed by the piercing element, thereby preventing the user from accidentally inhaling the desiccant.

[0044] The hardness of the desiccant may be greater than the hardness of the powder.

[0045] In this case, the desiccant collides with the powder inside the container, loosening the solidified powder. Also, the desiccant itself is prevented from being broken down into fine particles, which can prevent the fine particles from passing through the opening and being delivered to the user.

[0046] The desiccant may be packed in a breathable member and housed in the housing.

[0047] In this case, since the desiccant is packed, it is possible to prevent the desiccant from being mixed with the powder and the user from inhaling the desiccant. Note that the breathable member may be, for example, a nonwoven fabric or paper such as plain paper.

[0048] The desiccant may include at least one selected from the group consisting of silica gel, sepiolite, calcium oxide, diatomaceous earth, activated carbon, activated clay, zeolite, white carbon, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium acetate, dibasic sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, and a water-absorbing polymer.

[0049] In this case, a highly hygroscopic material is used as the desiccant, which further prevents the powder inside the container from absorbing moisture and solidifying.

[0050] The housing may be removably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler.

[0051] In this case, the container can be removed from the chamber after use and discarded or replaced.

[0052] The container may be integrally formed with the powder inhaler.

[0053] In this case, the entire powder inhaler can be discarded or replaced after the powder has been inhaled.

[0054] The powder inhalation system may include a mouthpiece having an inhalation port, and a transport path that transports the powder in the storage portion toward the inhalation port.

[0055] In this case, when the user inhales through the mouthpiece, the powder in the container can be supplied into the user's mouth via the transport path.

[0056] The powder inhalation system may have a cartridge that holds the container and is detachable from the powder inhaler, and a portion of the cartridge may extend outside the powder inhaler when the container is positioned in the chamber.

[0057] In this case, the used container can be discarded or replaced together with the cartridge containing the container, and the user can grasp the part of the cartridge that extends outside the powder inhaler and remove the cartridge from the powder inhaler, making it easy to discard or replace the cartridge and container.

[0058] According to a third aspect, there is provided a powder inhalation system including a container for containing a powder to be inhaled, a mouthpiece having an inhalation port, a transport path for transporting the powder in the container from the container to the inhalation port, a wall defining the transport path, and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder. The powder inhaler has a chamber in which the container is disposed, and a piercing element disposed in the chamber and configured to form an opening in the container. The wall defining the transport path is formed of a transparent or translucent material that allows the interior of the transport path to be seen from the outside.

[0059] According to the third aspect, the powder passing through the transport path can be visually confirmed from the outside, making it easy to check whether or not powder remains inside the storage unit or chamber, and therefore, it is easy to determine whether or not the powder inhalation system has been used.

[0060] The powder inhalation system may have a cartridge that extends partially outside the powder inhaler and holds the storage portion, the cartridge being detachable from the powder inhaler, and having the mouthpiece, the transport path, and the wall portion.

[0061] In this case, the powder passing through the transport path of the cartridge can be visually observed from the outside, making it easy to confirm whether or not powder remains inside the storage unit or chamber. This makes it easy to determine whether the powder inhalation system has been used. Furthermore, after use, the storage unit can be discarded or replaced along with the cartridge, including the storage unit. Furthermore, the user can grasp the portion of the cartridge that extends outside the powder inhaler and remove the cartridge from the powder inhaler, making it easy to discard or replace the cartridge and storage unit.

[0062] The wall of the cartridge may be formed of at least one selected from the group consisting of glassine paper, parchment paper, wax paper, cellophane, polypropylene film, polyvinyl chloride film, and cellulose acetate film.

[0063] In this case, the wall portion of the cartridge can be formed easily and at low cost.

[0064] The walls of the cartridge may be formed from or coated with an anti-static material.

[0065] In this case, the wall of the cartridge is charged, which prevents the powder passing through the transport path from adhering to the wall, thereby ensuring efficient supply of powder to the user. Examples of antistatic materials that can be used include anionic antistatic agents, cationic antistatic agents, amphoteric antistatic agents, and nonionic antistatic agents.

[0066] The container may be integrally formed with the powder inhaler.

[0067] In this case, the entire powder inhaler can be discarded or replaced after the powder has been inhaled.

[0068] The housing may be removably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler.

[0069] In this case, the container can be removed from the chamber after use and discarded or replaced.

[0070] The powder inhaler may include the transport path and the wall portion.

[0071] In this case, the powder passing through the transport path of the powder inhaler can be visually observed from the outside, making it easy to check whether or not powder remains inside the storage section or chamber, and therefore, it is easy to determine whether or not the powder inhaler system has been used.

[0072] The entire wall of the powder inhaler may be formed from the transparent or translucent material.

[0073] In this case, the powder passing through the transport path can be seen from the outside along the entire transport path, making it easier to check whether or not powder remains inside the storage section or chamber.

[0074] The wall of the powder inhaler may be made of at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylic resin, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, and polystyrene.

[0075] In this case, the wall of the powder inhaler can be formed easily and at low cost.

[0076] The container may be formed of a transparent or translucent material that allows the interior of the container to be seen from the outside.

[0077] In this case, the inside of the container can be seen from the outside, so it is easy to check whether or not powder remains in the container.

[0078] The portion of the container where the opening is formed may be made of the transparent or translucent material.

[0079] In this case, it is possible to visually check from the outside whether or not the powder is being discharged from the opening of the container, making it even easier to check whether or not powder remains in the container.

[0080] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a powder inhalation system including a container for containing a powder to be inhaled, and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder, the powder inhalation system having a mouthpiece with an inhalation port and a transport path for transporting powder in the container toward the inhalation port, the powder inhaler having a chamber in which the container is disposed and a piercing element disposed in the chamber and configured to form an opening in the container, and the flavor inhaler system having an obstruction portion disposed in the transport path for obstructing a flow of a portion of the powder when a user inhales.

[0081] According to the fourth aspect, even if the powder in the storage portion absorbs moisture and forms clumps, the obstruction portion can prevent such clumps from reaching the user's mouth.

[0082] The obstruction portion may include a columnar body having a plurality of grooves on its outer surface, the plurality of grooves extending toward the suction port, and at least one of the plurality of grooves may have a dam portion provided inside the groove.

[0083] The obstruction unit may include a mesh filter.

[0084] In this case, the powder passes through the mesh filter and reaches the suction port, but the mesh filter can prevent clumps of powder from reaching the suction port, thereby preventing clumps of powder from reaching the user's mouth.

[0085] The obstruction portion may include a collision plate provided on an inner surface of a wall portion that defines the transport path and that opens the center of the transport path.

[0086] In this case, the powder passes through the open central portion of the transport path and reaches the suction port, but the impact plate can prevent clumps of powder from reaching the suction port, thereby preventing clumps of powder from reaching the user's mouth.

[0087] The impact plate may be curved or inclined towards the receiving portion.

[0088] In this case, the curved or inclined collision plate can effectively prevent powder clumps from reaching the suction port.

[0089] The obstruction may be formed from or coated with an antistatic material.

[0090] In this case, by charging the obstructing portion, it is possible to prevent the powder passing through the transport path from adhering to the obstructing portion, thereby ensuring efficient supply of powder to the user. Examples of antistatic materials that can be used include anionic antistatic agents, cationic antistatic agents, amphoteric antistatic agents, and nonionic antistatic agents.

[0091] The obstruction may be formed from or coated with a non-moisture absorbing material.

[0092] In this case, when the powder collides with the obstructing portion, the powder can be prevented from absorbing moisture and solidifying. Furthermore, when the powder collides with the obstructing portion, the powder can be prevented from adhering to the obstructing portion. This prevents clumps of powder from reaching the user's mouth, and ensures efficient supply of powder to the user. Examples of non-hygroscopic materials that can be used include polyethylene and polypropylene.

[0093] The housing may be removably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler.

[0094] In this case, the container can be removed from the chamber after use and discarded or replaced.

[0095] The container may be integrally formed with the powder inhaler.

[0096] In this case, the entire powder inhaler can be discarded or replaced after the powder has been inhaled.

[0097] The device may include a cartridge that holds the storage portion and includes the transport path, and the obstruction portion may be provided on the cartridge.

[0098] In this case, the container can be discarded or replaced together with the cartridge after use. Also, since the obstructing part is provided in the cartridge that can be replaced as needed, there is no need to clean the obstructing part even if powder adheres to it.

[0099] The cartridge may have a portion extending outside the powder inhaler when the container is disposed in the chamber.

[0100] In this case, a user can grasp the portion of the cartridge that extends outside the powder inhaler and remove the cartridge from the powder inhaler, allowing the cartridge and the container to be easily disposed of or replaced.

[0101] The powder inhaler may include the transport path, and the obstruction portion may be provided in the powder inhaler.

[0102] In this case, there is no need to provide an obstructing portion on the cartridge, and the obstructing portion can be used repeatedly.

[0103] 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a powder suction system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a powder suction system according to another example of the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a storage section. FIG. 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a storage section according to the second embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of a storage section according to another example of the second embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a powder suction system according to the third embodiment. FIG. 7 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a powder suction system according to another example of the third embodiment. FIG. 8 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing an example of a storage section in the third embodiment. FIG. 9 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a powder suction system according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a filter. FIG. 11 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing another example of a powder suction system according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 12 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of another example of a powder suction system according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 13 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an example of a cartridge according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 14 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an example of a cartridge according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 15 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of an example of a cartridge according to the fourth embodiment.

[0104] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings described below, identical or corresponding components are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted. In this specification, the "longitudinal direction" refers to the insertion direction when the storage unit 10 described below is stored in the chamber 102, the extension direction of the piercing member 132, or the extension direction of the tubular member 22 of the cartridge 20.

[0105] First Embodiment Fig. 1 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a powder inhalation system 1000 according to a first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, the powder inhalation system 1000 includes a container 10 containing powder to be inhaled and a powder inhaler 100 for inhaling the powder. The powder inhaler 100 has a chamber 102 in which the container 10 is disposed. The powder inhaler 100 also has, for example, a housing 110 that defines the chamber 102. The container 10 may be removably received in the chamber 102. In this case, the container 10 can be removed from the chamber 102 after use and discarded or replaced. Alternatively, the container 10 may be formed integrally with the powder inhaler 100. In this case, the entire powder inhaler 100 can be discarded or replaced after the powder has been inhaled.

[0106] The powder is not particularly limited as long as it is a substance that can be inhaled by a user. The powder can be a flavored powder or a pharmaceutical product such as a medicine. When the powder is a flavored powder, the type is not particularly limited as long as it has a flavor and can be inhaled. The powder can contain nicotine, various flavorings such as menthol, sugars, and amino acids. The powder may be produced by spray drying. Sugar alcohols and amino acids can be used as powder excipients. Specifically, at least one selected from the group consisting of mannitol, trehalose, leucine, alanine, valine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan can be used as the powder excipient. When the powder contains a flavored powder, the powder inhaler 100 is configured as a flavor inhaler for inhaling the flavor, and the container 10 is configured as a flavor-generating product. This allows the powder inhaler 100 to provide users with an opportunity to enjoy the flavor.

[0107] Furthermore, the powder inhalation system 1000 preferably includes a mouthpiece 150 having an inlet 150a, and a transport path 120 that transports the powder in the storage unit 10 toward the inlet 150a. In this case, when a user inhales through the mouthpiece 150, the powder in the storage unit 10 can be supplied into the user's mouth via the transport path 120. In the illustrated example, the powder inhaler 100 includes the mouthpiece 150 and the transport path 120. The housing 110 of the powder inhaler 100 has a wall 112 that defines the transport path 120. The mouthpiece 150 has a passage 152 that communicates with the transport path 120 inside the housing 110. The passage 152 constitutes part of the transport path 120. The mouthpiece 150 may be configured to be detachable from the housing 110.

[0108] The powder inhalation system 1000 preferably includes a perforating element 130 configured to form an opening in the storage unit 10 disposed in the chamber 102. In this embodiment, the perforating element 130 is provided on the powder inhaler 100, but this is not limiting. A user may also use a perforating element 130 that is not provided on the powder inhaler 100 to form an opening in the storage unit 10. When an opening is formed in the storage unit 10, powder is discharged from the opening in the storage unit 10 into the chamber 102, and when the user inhales on the mouthpiece 150, the powder is supplied into the user's mouth via the transport path 120. Note that the powder discharged into the chamber 102 may pass between the outer circumferential surface of the storage unit 10 and the wall 112 that defines the transport path 120 and move to the mouthpiece 150.

[0109] In this embodiment, the piercing element 130 may have a piercing member 132 extending in a first direction (longitudinal direction) in which the housing 10 and the piercing element 130 are adjacent, and a biasing member 134 that biases the piercing member 132 in a direction away from the housing 10 in the first direction. The piercing member 132 may be any member capable of forming an opening in the housing 10, such as a needle or pin. When forming an opening in the housing 10, a user pushes and moves the piercing member 132 toward the housing 10 disposed in the chamber 102. This breaks a portion of the housing 10, forming an opening. The piercing member 132 that has moved toward the housing 10 is biased by the biasing member 134 to return to its original position.

[0110] 1, the powder inhaler 100 preferably includes a sensor 142 that detects the pressure applied to the perforation element 130, and a control unit 140 that determines whether the perforation element 130 has formed an opening in the storage unit 10 based on the pressure detected by the sensor 142. In this case, the control unit 140 can determine whether an opening has been formed in the storage unit 10, and if an opening has been formed in the storage unit 10, the powder inhaler can notify the user by, for example, emitting vibrations, sound, light, or the like. Upon receiving this notification, the user can decide to start inhalation.

[0111] FIG. 2 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a powder inhalation system 1000 according to another example of the first embodiment. The example shown in FIG. 2 differs from the example shown in FIG. 1 in that the storage unit 10 is held by a cartridge 20 and that the powder inhaler 100 does not include a mouthpiece 150. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge 20 holding the storage unit 10 is detachable from the powder inhaler 100, and as shown in FIG. 2, a portion of the cartridge 20 extends outside the powder inhaler 100 when the storage unit 10 is disposed in the chamber 102. In this case, after use, the storage unit 10 can be discarded or replaced together with the cartridge 20 including the storage unit 10. Furthermore, a user can grasp the portion of the cartridge 20 extending outside the powder inhaler 100 and remove the cartridge 20 from the powder inhaler 100, allowing the cartridge 20 and storage unit 10 to be easily discarded or replaced.

[0112] Specifically, the cartridge 20 has a tubular member 22 that holds the storage unit 10 therein. The tubular member 22 may be formed of, for example, paper or resin. As shown in the figure, the storage unit 10 is preferably held near one end of the tubular member 22. This allows the storage unit 10 to be positioned so that the piercing member 132 can form an opening in the storage unit 10 when the cartridge 20 is inserted into the chamber 102 of the powder inhaler 100. In the example shown, the cartridge 20 also has a mouthpiece 22a having an inlet 22c, a transport path 24 that transports powder in the storage unit 10 toward the inlet 22c, and a wall portion 22b. Specifically, a portion of the end of the tubular member 22 opposite the end inserted into the chamber 102 constitutes the mouthpiece 22a. The powder discharged from the opening formed in the storage unit 10 passes through the transport path 24 inside the tubular member 22 and reaches the user's mouth. Therefore, in the illustrated example, the tubular member 22 functions as a wall portion 22 b that defines the transport path 24 .

[0113] The wall 22b is preferably made of or coated with an antistatic material. In this case, the wall 22b of the cartridge 20 is charged, thereby preventing the powder passing through the transport path 24 from adhering to the wall 22b. This allows the powder to be supplied to the user without waste. Examples of the antistatic material that can be used include an anionic antistatic agent, a cationic antistatic agent, an amphoteric antistatic agent, and a nonionic antistatic agent.

[0114] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the storage unit 10. FIG. 3( a) is a schematic side view of the storage unit 10 when it is contained in the chamber 102. FIG. 3( b) is an end view of the storage unit 10. The storage unit 10 may be, for example, a capsule-shaped container configured to contain powder. The storage unit 10 is not limited to this, and may be a container of any shape, such as a spherical, box-shaped, or bag-shaped container. In this embodiment, in order to suppress variation in the position or size of an opening when forming an opening in the storage unit 10, the storage unit 10 has a fragile portion 12 having a lower breaking strength than other portions of the storage unit 10. This suppresses variation in the position or size of the opening when forming an opening in the storage unit 10 with a piercing element 130, such as a needle, by breaking the fragile portion 12. Note that the greater the pressure applied to the piercing element 130 when forming an opening with the piercing element 130, the higher the "breaking strength." Conversely, the smaller the pressure applied to the piercing element 130 when forming an opening with the piercing element 130, the lower the "breaking strength." 1 and 2 is preferably configured to form an opening in the weakened portion 12. In this case, the piercing element 130 can easily form an opening in the weakened portion 12 of the container 10 placed in the chamber 102.

[0115] The storage section 10 may be formed of a material such as paper or synthetic resin. The fragile section 12 may be formed of a material different from that of the other sections of the storage section 10. In this case, the difference in material can make the breaking strength of the fragile section 12 lower than that of the other sections. Furthermore, the thickness of the fragile section 12 may be thinner than that of the other sections of the storage section 10. In this case, the difference in thickness can make the breaking strength of the fragile section 12 lower than that of the other sections.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 3 , the storage unit 10 preferably includes a first portion 10a and a second portion 10b that is detachable from the first portion 10a. In this case, the storage unit 10 containing the powder can be easily manufactured. The fragile portion 12 may be provided in either the first portion 10a or the second portion 10b. In the example shown in FIG. 3 , the fragile portion 12 is provided in the first portion 10a. Alternatively, the entirety of either the first portion 10a or the second portion 10b may be the fragile portion 12. In this case, the fragile portion 12 can be formed not only in part but also in the entire material that constitutes the storage unit 10, thereby making it easy to manufacture the first portion 10a or the second portion 10b.

[0117] The shape of the fragile portion 12 preferably substantially matches or is larger than the cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the piercing element 130. Specifically, it is preferable that the shape of the fragile portion 12 viewed from the longitudinal direction, as shown in FIG. 3(b), substantially matches or is larger than the cross-sectional shape perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the piercing member 132. In this case, the piercing element 130 can form an opening only in the fragile portion 12. In other words, it is possible to prevent openings from being formed in parts of the storage portion 10 other than the fragile portion 12.

[0118] As shown in Fig. 3(a), the storage unit 10 has an elliptical or rounded rectangular outer shape when viewed in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal direction. In this case, as shown in Fig. 3, the fragile portion 12 is preferably provided on the major axis MA of the elliptical or rounded rectangle. In this case, as shown in Fig. 3, the fragile portion 12 is located at the end face (vertex) of the storage unit 10, so that an opening can be easily formed at the end face of the storage unit 10. As a result, the powder stored in the storage unit 10 can be easily discharged through the opening, thereby preventing powder from remaining in the storage unit 10.

[0119] Furthermore, in a cross section perpendicular to the insertion direction (longitudinal direction) of the storage unit 10 into the chamber 102, the outer diameter of the piercing element 130 is preferably larger than the difference between the inner diameter of the chamber 102 and the outer diameter of the storage unit 10. Specifically, the difference corresponds to the sum of the widths W1 and W2 of the gaps between the outer peripheral surface of the storage unit 10 and the inner surface of the housing 110 that defines the chamber 102, as shown in FIGS. 3( a) and 3(b). The outer diameter of the piercing element 130 in the cross section corresponds to the diameter of the piercing member 132 in the cross section. In this case, even if the position of the storage unit 10 within the chamber 102 is shifted in a direction perpendicular to the insertion direction (longitudinal direction), the piercing element 130 can form an opening in the fragile portion 12. Note that, as shown in FIG. 2, when the storage unit 10 is held in a cartridge 20, the difference can be the difference between the inner diameter of the chamber 102 and the outer shape of the cartridge 20.

[0120] 1 and 2 , as described above, the powder inhaler 100 preferably includes a sensor 142 and a control unit 140 electrically connected to the sensor 142. The sensor 142 is configured to detect pressure applied to the perforating element 130. The control unit 140 is also configured to determine whether the perforating element 130 has formed an opening in the fragile portion 12 shown in FIG. 3 based on the pressure detected by the sensor 142. In this case, since the control unit 140 can determine whether an opening has been formed in the fragile portion 12 of the container 10, if an opening has not been formed in the fragile portion 12, the powder inhaler 100 can notify the user by, for example, emitting vibrations, sound, light, or the like. If an opening has not been formed in the fragile portion 12, the user can take appropriate measures, such as replacing the container 10.

[0121] When the perforating element 130 forms an opening in the fragile portion 12, the pressure applied to the perforating element 130 is lower than when the perforating element 130 forms an opening in a portion of the storage unit 10 other than the fragile portion 12. For this reason, the control unit 140 may determine that the perforating element 130 has formed an opening in the fragile portion 12 when the pressure detected by the sensor 142 is equal to or lower than a predetermined value. In this case, the powder inhaler 100 can notify the user that the perforating element 130 has formed an opening in the fragile portion 12, for example, by emitting vibration, sound, light, or the like. The user can start inhaling after confirming that an opening has been formed in the fragile portion 12.

[0122] Second Embodiment Next, a powder inhalation system 1000 according to a second embodiment will be described. The powder inhalation system 1000 according to the second embodiment differs from the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the first embodiment in the contents of the storage unit 10. That is, the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the second embodiment includes a storage unit 10 that stores powder to be inhaled and a powder inhaler 100 for inhaling the powder, the powder inhaler 100 having a chamber 102 in which the storage unit 10 is disposed. FIG. 4 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the storage unit 10 according to the second embodiment. It is conceivable that the powder in the storage unit 10 may absorb moisture and unintentionally harden. For this reason, the storage unit 10 according to the second embodiment stores powder 11 and a desiccant 13 different from the powder 11, as shown in FIG. 4. This prevents the powder 11 inside the storage unit 10 from absorbing moisture and hardening. The storage unit 10 shown in FIG. 4 has an opening 14 formed by a piercing element 130 or the like. The storage section 10 according to the second embodiment may or may not have the fragile section 12 described in the first embodiment.

[0123] The hygroscopicity of the desiccant 13 is preferably higher than that of the powder 11. In this case, the desiccant 13 can efficiently prevent the powder 11 from absorbing moisture. The hygroscopicity can be measured, for example, by a loss on drying method. Specifically, the desiccant 13 preferably contains at least one selected from the group consisting of silica gel, sepiolite, calcium oxide, diatomaceous earth, activated carbon, activated clay, zeolite, white carbon, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium acetate, dibasic sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, and a water-absorbing polymer. In this case, since a highly hygroscopic material is used as the desiccant 13, the powder 11 inside the container 10 can be more effectively prevented from absorbing moisture and solidifying.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 4 , the particle size of the desiccant 13 is preferably larger than that of the powder 11. More specifically, the particle size of the desiccant 13 is preferably larger than that of the opening 14 formed in the storage unit 10. In this case, the desiccant 13 is prevented from being discharged through the opening 14 formed by the perforating element 130, thereby preventing the user from accidentally inhaling the desiccant 13. Furthermore, the hardness of the desiccant 13 is preferably higher than that of the powder 11. In this case, the desiccant 13 collides with the powder 11 inside the storage unit 10, thereby loosening the solidified powder 11. Furthermore, the desiccant 13 itself is prevented from being broken down into fine particles, thereby preventing the finely divided desiccant 13 from passing through the opening 14 and being supplied to the user. Note that the "hardness" here may be, for example, micro-Vickers hardness or Knoop hardness.

[0125] Fig. 5 is a schematic side cross-sectional view of the storage unit 10 according to another example of the second embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the desiccant 13 may be packed in a breathable member 13a and stored in the storage unit 10. In this case, since the desiccant 13 is packed, it is possible to prevent the desiccant 13 from being mixed with the powder 11 and from being inhaled by the user. Note that the breathable member 13a may be, for example, a nonwoven fabric or paper such as plain paper.

[0126] Third Embodiment Next, a powder inhalation system 1000 according to a third embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional side view showing the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the third embodiment. The powder inhalation system 1000 according to the third embodiment differs from the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the first embodiment in that the walls defining the transport path are formed of a transparent or translucent material. That is, the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the third embodiment includes a storage unit 10 and a powder inhaler 100. The powder inhalation system 1000 further includes a mouthpiece 150 having an inlet 150a, a transport path 120 for transporting powder to the inlet 150a, and a wall 112 defining the transport path 120. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the mouthpiece 150, the transport path 120, and the wall 112 are provided in the powder inhaler 100. The storage unit 10 according to the third embodiment may or may not include the fragile portion 12 described in the first embodiment.

[0127] In the powder inhalation system 1000 shown in FIG. 6 , it is difficult to determine whether the storage unit 10 has been used, which may lead to the accidental reuse of a used storage unit 10. It is also difficult to determine whether powder remains in the storage unit 10 housed in the chamber 102 of the powder inhaler 100. For this reason, in the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the third embodiment, the wall 112 defining the transport path 120 is formed of a transparent or translucent material that allows the interior of the transport path 120 to be viewed from the outside. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 , a transparent or translucent portion 112a is provided in a portion of the wall 112 of the housing 110. This allows the powder passing through the transport path 120 to be viewed from the outside, making it easy to confirm whether powder remains in the storage unit 10 or the chamber 102. This makes it easy to determine whether the powder inhalation system 1000 has been used.

[0128] The wall 112 is preferably formed of or coated with an antistatic material. In this case, charging the wall 112 can prevent powder passing through the transport path 120 from adhering to the wall 112. This allows the powder to be supplied to the user without waste. Furthermore, this can prevent the powder passing through the transport path 120 from adhering to the wall 112, making it difficult to see the powder passing through the transport path 120 from the transparent or translucent portion 112a. Examples of antistatic materials that can be used include anionic antistatic agents, cationic antistatic agents, amphoteric antistatic agents, and nonionic antistatic agents.

[0129] 6, transparent or semi-transparent portion 112a is preferably provided in a portion of wall 112 surrounding opening 14 of container 10. In this case, it is possible to easily check whether powder has been discharged from opening 14 of container 10, i.e., whether powder remains inside container 10.

[0130] 6, a portion of the wall 112 is formed of a transparent or translucent portion 112a. Alternatively, the entire wall 112 of the housing 110 may be formed of a transparent or translucent material. In this case, the powder passing through the transport path 120 can be seen from the outside throughout the entire transport path 120, making it easier to check whether or not powder remains inside the storage unit 10 or the chamber 102. The passage 152 of the mouthpiece 150 constitutes a part of the transport path 120, and some or all of the wall defining the passage 152 of the mouthpiece 150 (which corresponds to an example of a transport path) may be formed of a transparent or translucent material.

[0131] The wall 112 (transparent or translucent portion 112a) of the housing 110 is preferably made of at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylic resin, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, and polystyrene. In this case, the wall 112 and the transparent or translucent portion 112a of the housing 110 can be formed easily and at low cost.

[0132] FIG. 7 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing a powder inhalation system 1000 according to another example of the third embodiment. The example shown in FIG. 7 differs from the example shown in FIG. 6 in that the storage unit 10 is held by a cartridge 20 and the powder inhaler 100 does not include a mouthpiece 150. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 7, the cartridge 20 holding the storage unit 10 is detachable from the powder inhaler 100, and as shown in FIG. 7, a portion of the cartridge 20 extends outside the powder inhaler 100 when the storage unit 10 is disposed in the chamber 102. In this case, the storage unit 10 can be discarded or replaced together with the cartridge 20 including the storage unit 10 after use. Furthermore, a user can grasp the portion of the cartridge 20 extending outside the powder inhaler 100 and remove the cartridge 20 from the powder inhaler 100, allowing the cartridge 20 and storage unit 10 to be easily discarded or replaced.

[0133] In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the cartridge 20 has a wall 22b formed of a transparent or translucent material that allows the interior of the transport path 24 to be viewed from the outside. This allows the powder passing through the transport path 24 of the cartridge 20 to be viewed from the outside, making it easy to check whether or not powder remains inside the storage unit 10 or the chamber 102. This makes it easy to determine whether or not the powder inhalation system 1000 has been used. In the example shown in FIG. 7 , the entire wall 22b is formed of a transparent or translucent material. However, this is not limited to this, and only a portion of the wall 22b may be formed of a transparent or translucent material. Specifically, for example, when the storage unit 10 of the cartridge 20 is housed in the chamber 102 and is in a state where inhalation is possible, as shown in FIG. 7 , only a portion of the wall 22b that overlaps with the transparent or translucent portion 112a of the housing 110 in the longitudinal direction may be formed of a transparent or translucent material.

[0134] The wall 22b of the cartridge 20 is preferably formed of at least one selected from the group consisting of glassine paper, parchment paper, wax paper, cellophane, polypropylene film, polyvinyl chloride film, and cellulose acetate film, which allows the wall 22b of the cartridge 20 to be formed easily and at low cost.

[0135] The wall 22b of the cartridge 20 is preferably formed of or coated with an antistatic material. In this case, charging the wall 22b can prevent powder passing through the transport path 24 from adhering to the wall 22b. This allows the powder to be supplied to the user without waste. Furthermore, adhesion of powder passing through the transport path 24 to the wall 22b can be prevented, making it difficult to visually recognize the powder passing through the transport path 24 from the wall 22b. Examples of antistatic materials that can be used include anionic antistatic agents, cationic antistatic agents, amphoteric antistatic agents, and nonionic antistatic agents.

[0136] In the examples shown in Figures 6 and 7, the storage unit 10 is preferably formed of a transparent or translucent material that allows the interior of the storage unit 10 to be viewed from the outside. In this case, the interior of the storage unit 10 can be viewed from the outside, making it easy to check whether powder remains in the storage unit 10. Figure 8 is a schematic side view showing an example of the storage unit 10 in the third embodiment. The portion of the storage unit 10 where the opening 14 is formed is preferably formed of a transparent or translucent material. Specifically, as shown in Figure 8, the storage unit 10 has a transparent or translucent portion 10c in part thereof, and the opening 14 can be formed in this transparent or translucent portion 10c. In this case, it is possible to view from the outside whether powder is being discharged through the opening 14 of the storage unit 10, making it even easier to check whether powder remains in the storage unit 10. However, the entire storage unit 10 may be formed of a transparent or translucent portion 10c.

[0137] Fourth Embodiment Next, a powder inhalation system 1000 according to a fourth embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the fourth embodiment. The powder inhalation system 1000 according to the fourth embodiment differs from the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the first embodiment in that it includes an obstructing portion that obstructs the flow of a portion of the powder during inhalation by a user. That is, the powder inhalation system 1000 of the fourth embodiment includes a storage unit 10 and a powder inhaler 100. The powder inhalation system 1000 further includes a mouthpiece 150 and a transport path 120. The powder inhaler 100 includes a chamber 102 and a piercing element 130. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the mouthpiece 150 and the transport path 120 are provided in the powder inhaler 100. The storage unit 10 according to the fourth embodiment may or may not include the fragile portion 12 described in the first embodiment.

[0138] In the powder inhalation system 1000 shown in FIG. 9 , there is a risk that the powder in the container 10 will absorb moisture and harden, and the hardened powder may be inhaled by the user. For this reason, the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the fourth embodiment has an obstruction section that obstructs the flow of part of the powder when the user inhales. As a result, even if the powder in the container 10 absorbs moisture and forms clumps, the obstruction section can prevent such clumps from reaching the user's mouth. Specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 9 , a filter 40, which is an example of an obstruction section, may be disposed in the transport path 120 of the housing 110. The filter 40 may be provided in a passage 152 (which corresponds to an example of a transport path) in the mouthpiece 150.

[0139] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the filter 40. As shown in FIG. 10, the filter 40 has a columnar body 41 having a plurality of grooves 41a on its outer circumferential surface. The plurality of grooves 41a extend toward the suction port 150a of the mouthpiece 150, and at least one of the plurality of grooves 41a may have a dam portion 41b provided therein. In this case, the powder passes through the plurality of grooves 41a on the outer circumferential surface and reaches the suction port 150a, but clumps of powder can be prevented from reaching the suction port 150a by the dam portion 41b. This prevents clumps of powder from reaching the user's mouth. The filter 40 may be formed, for example, from paper, nonwoven fabric, cellulose acetate, or the like.

[0140] FIG. 11 is a schematic side cross-sectional view showing another example of the powder inhalation system 1000 according to the fourth embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 11 , a mesh filter 44, an example of an obstruction section, may be disposed in the transport path 120 of the housing 110. In this case, the powder passes through the mesh filter 44 and reaches the suction port 150a, but the mesh filter 44 can prevent clumps of powder from reaching the suction port 150a. This prevents clumps of powder from reaching the user's mouth. The mesh filter 44 may be disposed in the passage 152 (corresponding to an example of a transport path) in the mouthpiece 150. The mesh filter 44 may be, for example, a metal mesh filter, a fiber layer filter, or a particle-packed layer filter. The collection efficiency of clumps of powder can be optimized by changing the mesh size, wire diameter, fiber diameter, particle diameter, packing rate, or packing length of the mesh filter 44.

[0141] FIG. 12 is a schematic side cross-sectional view illustrating another example of the powder suction system 1000 according to the fourth embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 12 , an impact plate 46, an example of an obstruction section, may be disposed in the transport path 120 of the housing 110. The impact plate 46 is provided on the inner surface of the wall 112 defining the transport path 120, leaving the center of the transport path 120 open. In this case, powder passes through the open central portion of the transport path 120 to reach the suction port 150a, but the impact plate 46 can prevent clumps of powder from reaching the suction port 150a. This prevents clumps of powder from reaching the user's mouth. The impact plate 46 may also be provided in the passage 152 (corresponding to an example of a transport path) within the mouthpiece 150. In the example shown in FIG. 12 , the impact plate 46 is inclined toward the container 10. In this case, the inclined impact plate 46 can effectively prevent clumps of powder from reaching the suction port 22c. The impact plate 46 may not be inclined and may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the collision plate 46 may be provided on a part of the inner surface of the wall portion 112, but is preferably provided over the entire periphery of the inner surface of the wall portion 112.

[0142] As described above, in the powder inhaler system 1000 shown in Figures 9 to 12, the obstructing portion is provided in the powder inhaler 100. In this case, since there is no need to provide the obstructing portion in the cartridge 20, the obstructing portion can be used repeatedly. On the other hand, the obstructing portion may also be provided in the cartridge 20.

[0143] Figures 13 to 15 are schematic cross-sectional side views of an example of a cartridge 20 according to the fourth embodiment. The cartridge 20 shown in Figures 13 to 15 can be used in the powder inhaler 100 shown in Figure 2. In the example shown in Figure 13, the cartridge 20 holding the storage unit 10 has a filter 40 disposed in the transport path 24. In this case, the filter 40, which is an obstructing part, is provided in the cartridge 20, which is replaced as needed, so that cleaning is not required even if powder adheres to the filter 40. The filter 40 can be the same as the filter 40 shown in Figures 9 and 10.

[0144] 14, the cartridge 20 holding the storage unit 10 has a mesh filter 44 disposed in the transport path 24. In this case, the mesh filter 44, which is an obstructing part, is provided in the cartridge 20, which is replaced as needed, so that there is no need to clean the mesh filter 44 even if powder adheres to it. The mesh filter 44 may be the same as the mesh filter 44 shown in FIG.

[0145] In the example shown in FIG. 15 , the cartridge 20 holding the storage unit 10 has an impact plate 46 disposed in the transport path 24. In this case, the impact plate 46, which is an obstructing part, is provided on the cartridge 20, which is replaced as needed, so that cleaning is not required even if powder adheres to the impact plate 46. In the example shown in FIG. 15 , the impact plate 46 is curved toward the storage unit 10. In this case, the curved impact plate 46 can efficiently prevent clumps of powder from reaching the suction port 22 c. The impact plate 46 may not be curved, but may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the impact plate 46 may be provided on a portion of the inner surface of the wall portion 22 b of the tubular member 22, but is preferably provided around the entire inner surface of the wall portion 22 b.

[0146] 9 to 15 are preferably formed of or coated with an antistatic material. In this case, the charging of the obstructing portion can prevent powder passing through the transport path 24 or the transport path 120 from adhering to the obstructing portion. This allows for efficient supply of powder to the user. Examples of the antistatic material that can be used include anionic antistatic agents, cationic antistatic agents, amphoteric antistatic agents, and nonionic antistatic agents.

[0147] The obstructing portions shown in Figures 9 to 15 are preferably formed of or coated with a non-hygroscopic material. In this case, when the powder collides with the obstructing portion, the powder can be prevented from absorbing moisture and clumping. Furthermore, when the powder collides with the obstructing portion, the powder can be prevented from adhering to the obstructing portion. This prevents clumps of powder from reaching the user's mouth, and ensures that the powder is delivered to the user efficiently. Examples of non-hygroscopic materials that can be used include polyethylene and polypropylene.

[0148] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims and the technical concept described in the specification and drawings. Furthermore, any shape or material not directly described in the specification and drawings is within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention as long as it achieves the functions and effects of the present invention. For example, the features of the above embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0149] Some aspects disclosed in this specification are described below. (1-1) A powder inhalation system including a storage section that stores powder to be inhaled and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder, wherein the powder inhaler has a chamber in which the storage section is disposed, and the storage section has a weakened section that has lower breaking strength than other parts of the storage section. (1-2) The powder inhalation system described in (1-1), further including a piercing element that is disposed in the chamber and configured to form an opening in the storage section, and the piercing element is configured to form an opening in the weakened section. (1-3) The powder inhalation system described in (1-2), wherein the shape of the weakened section is approximately the same as or larger than a cross-sectional shape of the piercing element perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the powder inhalation system. (1-4) The powder inhalation system described in (1-2) or (1-3), wherein the container has an elliptical or rounded rectangular outer shape when viewed from a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal direction, and the fragile part is provided on the major axis of the elliptical or rounded rectangular shape. (1-5) The powder inhalation system described in any of (1-2) to (1-4), wherein, in a cross section perpendicular to the insertion direction of the container into the chamber, the outer diameter of the perforating element is larger than the difference between the inner diameter of the chamber and the outer diameter of the container. (1-6) The powder inhalation system described in any of (1-2) to (1-5), wherein the powder inhaler has: a sensor that detects the pressure applied to the perforating element; and a control unit that determines whether the perforating element has formed an opening in the fragile part based on the pressure detected by the sensor. (1-7) The powder suction system according to (1-6), wherein the control unit determines that the perforating element has formed an opening in the weakened portion when the pressure detected by the sensor is equal to or lower than a predetermined value. (1-8) The powder suction system according to any one of (1-1) to (1-7), wherein the weakened portion is formed of a material different from that of the other portions of the container.(1-9) The powder inhalation system described in any of (1-1) to (1-8), wherein the thickness of the fragile portion is thinner than the thickness of other portions of the storage portion. (1-10) The powder inhalation system described in any of (1-1) to (1-9), wherein the storage portion includes a first portion and a second portion configured to be detachable from the first portion, and wherein the fragile portion is provided in either the first portion or the second portion. (1-11) The powder inhalation system described in (1-10), wherein the entirety of either the first portion or the second portion is the fragile portion. (1-12) The powder inhalation system described in any of (1-1) to (1-11), wherein the storage portion is detachably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler. (1-13) The powder inhalation system described in any of (1-1) to (1-11), wherein the storage section is formed integrally with the powder inhaler. (1-14) The powder inhalation system described in any of (1-1) to (1-13), comprising: a mouthpiece having an inhalation port; and a transport path for transporting powder in the storage section toward the inhalation port. (1-15) The powder inhalation system described in any of (1-1) to (1-12), comprising: a cartridge that holds the storage section and is detachable from the powder inhaler, wherein a portion of the cartridge extends outside the powder inhaler when the storage section is disposed in the chamber. (2-1) A powder inhalation system including: a storage section that stores powder to be inhaled; and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder, wherein the powder inhaler has a chamber in which the storage section is disposed, and the storage section stores a desiccant different from the powder. (2-2) The powder inhalation system according to (2-1), wherein the hygroscopicity of the desiccant is higher than the hygroscopicity of the powder.(2-3) The powder inhalation system according to (2-1) or (2-2), having a piercing element configured to form an opening in the storage section disposed in the chamber. (2-4) The powder inhalation system according to (2-3), wherein the particle size of the desiccant is larger than the opening formed in the storage section. (2-5) The powder inhalation system according to any of (2-1) to (2-4), wherein the hardness of the desiccant is higher than the hardness of the powder. (2-6) The powder inhalation system according to any of (2-1) to (2-5), wherein the desiccant is packed in a breathable member and stored in the storage section. (2-7) The powder inhalation system described in any of (2-1) to (2-6), wherein the desiccant comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of silica gel, sepiolite, calcium oxide, diatomaceous earth, activated carbon, activated clay, zeolite, white carbon, calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium acetate, dibasic sodium phosphate, sodium citrate, and a water-absorbing polymer. (2-8) The powder inhalation system described in any of (2-1) to (2-7), wherein the storage unit is removably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler. (2-9) The powder inhalation system described in any of (2-1) to (2-8), wherein the storage unit is formed integrally with the powder inhaler. (2-10) The powder inhalation system described in any of (2-1) to (2-9), comprising: a mouthpiece having an inhalation port; and a transport path for transporting powder in the storage unit toward the inhalation port. (2-11) A powder inhalation system according to any one of (2-1) to (2-8), comprising a cartridge that holds the storage portion and is detachable from the powder inhaler, and a portion of the cartridge extends outside the powder inhaler when the storage portion is disposed in the chamber.(3-1) A powder inhalation system comprising: a storage section that stores powder to be inhaled, a mouthpiece having an inhalation port, a transport path that transports the powder in the storage section from the storage section to the inhalation port, a wall that defines the transport path, and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder, wherein the powder inhaler has a chamber in which the storage section is disposed, and a piercing element that is configured to form an opening in the storage section disposed in the chamber, and the wall that defines the transport path is formed of a transparent or translucent material that allows the interior of the transport path to be seen from the outside. (3-2) The powder inhalation system described in (3-1), further comprising: a cartridge that holds the storage section and extends a portion outside the powder inhaler, the cartridge being detachable from the powder inhaler, and comprising the mouthpiece, the transport path, and the wall. (3-3) The powder inhalation system described in (3-2), wherein the wall of the cartridge is formed of at least one selected from the group consisting of glassine paper, parchment paper, wax paper, cellophane, polypropylene film, polyvinyl chloride film, and cellulose acetate film. (3-4) The powder inhalation system described in (3-2) or (3-3), wherein the wall of the cartridge is formed of an antistatic material or is coated with an antistatic material. (3-5) The powder inhalation system described in (3-1), wherein the storage portion is formed integrally with the powder inhaler. (3-6) The powder inhalation system described in any of (3-1) to (3-4), wherein the storage portion is detachably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler. (3-7) The powder inhalation system according to any one of (3-1) to (3-6), wherein the powder inhaler has the transport path and the wall portion. (3-8) The powder inhalation system according to (3-7), wherein the entire wall portion of the powder inhaler is formed from the transparent or translucent material.(3-9) The powder inhalation system according to (3-7) or (3-8), wherein the wall of the powder inhaler is made of at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylic resin, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, and polystyrene. (3-10) The powder inhalation system according to any one of (3-1) to (3-9), wherein the container is made of a transparent or translucent material that allows the interior of the container to be seen from the outside. (3-11) The powder inhalation system according to (3-10), wherein the portion of the container where the opening is formed is made of the transparent or translucent material. (4-1) A powder inhalation system including a storage unit that stores powder to be inhaled and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder, the powder inhaler having a mouthpiece with an inhalation port and a transport path that transports the powder from the storage unit toward the inhalation port, the powder inhaler having a chamber in which the storage unit is disposed and a piercing element configured to form an opening in the storage unit disposed in the chamber, the flavor inhaler system having an obstruction unit disposed in the transport path that obstructs the flow of a portion of the powder when a user inhales. (4-2) The powder inhalation system described in (4-1), wherein the obstruction unit includes a columnar body having a plurality of grooves on its outer circumferential surface, the plurality of grooves extending toward the inhalation port, and at least one of the plurality of grooves has a dam portion provided inside the groove. (4-3) The powder inhalation system described in (4-1), wherein the obstruction unit includes a mesh filter. (4-4) The powder suction system according to (4-1), wherein the obstruction section is provided on the inner surface of a wall section that defines the transport path and includes an impact plate that opens the center of the transport path. (4-5) The powder suction system according to (4-4), wherein the impact plate is curved or inclined toward the storage section.(4-6) A powder inhalation system according to any one of (4-1) to (4-5), wherein the obstructing portion is formed of an antistatic material or is coated with an antistatic material. (4-7) A powder inhalation system according to any one of (4-1) to (4-5), wherein the obstructing portion is formed of a non-hygroscopic material or is coated with a non-hygroscopic material. (4-8) A powder inhalation system according to any one of (4-1) to (4-7), wherein the containing portion is detachably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler. (4-9) A powder inhalation system according to any one of (4-1) to (4-8), wherein the containing portion is formed integrally with the powder inhaler. (4-10) The powder inhalation system described in any one of (4-1) to (4-8), comprising a cartridge that holds the storage portion and includes the transport path, wherein the obstruction portion is provided on the cartridge. (4-11) The powder inhalation system described in (4-10), wherein a portion of the cartridge extends outside the powder inhaler when the storage portion is placed in the chamber. (4-12) The powder inhalation system described in any one of (4-1) to (4-9), wherein the powder inhaler includes the transport path, and the obstruction portion is provided on the powder inhaler.

[0150] 10: Storage section 11: Powder 14: Opening 20: Cartridge 22a: Mouthpiece 22b: Wall section 22c: Suction port 24: Transport path 40: Filter 41a: Groove 41b: Dam section 44: Mesh filter 46: Collision plate 100: Powder inhaler 102: Chamber 112: Wall section 120: Transport path 130: Perforation element 150: Mouthpiece 150a: Suction port 1000: Powder inhalation system

Claims

1. A powder inhalation system comprising: a container for containing a powder to be inhaled; and a powder inhaler for inhaling the powder, a mouthpiece having a suction port; a transport path that transports the powder in the container toward the suction port, The powder inhaler comprises: a chamber in which the container is disposed; a piercing element configured to form an opening in the receiving portion disposed in the chamber; The powder inhaler system has an obstruction portion disposed in the transport path that obstructs the flow of a portion of the powder when the user inhales.

2. 2. The powder inhalation system according to claim 1, the obstruction portion includes a columnar body having a plurality of grooves on its outer circumferential surface, the plurality of grooves extend toward the suction port; A powder suction system, wherein at least one of the plurality of grooves has a dam portion provided inside the groove.

3. 2. The powder inhalation system according to claim 1, A powder inhalation system, wherein the obstructing portion includes a mesh filter.

4. 2. The powder inhalation system according to claim 1, A powder suction system, wherein the obstruction portion is provided on the inner surface of a wall portion defining the transport path and includes an impact plate that opens the center of the transport path.

5. 5. The powder inhalation system according to claim 4, A powder suction system, wherein the impact plate is curved or inclined towards the container.

6. 6. A powder inhalation system according to claim 1, A powder suction system, wherein the obstructing portion is formed of or coated with an antistatic material.

7. 6. A powder inhalation system according to claim 1, A powder inhalation system, wherein the obstruction portion is formed of or coated with a non-hygroscopic material.

8. 6. A powder inhalation system according to claim 1, A powder inhalation system, wherein the container is removably received in the chamber of the powder inhaler.

9. 6. A powder inhalation system according to claim 1, A powder inhalation system, wherein the container is integrally formed with the powder inhaler.

10. 6. A powder inhalation system according to claim 1, a cartridge that holds the storage portion and includes the transport path; A powder inhalation system, wherein the obstructing portion is provided on the cartridge.

11. 11. The powder inhalation system according to claim 10, A powder inhalation system, wherein the cartridge has a portion extending outside the powder inhaler when the storage portion is disposed in the chamber.

12. 6. A powder inhalation system according to claim 1, the powder inhaler includes the transport channel; A powder inhalation system, wherein the obstruction portion is provided in the powder inhaler.