Indicator device for container, sprayer, and method for testing sprayer

Abstract

An indicator device (100) for a container (a), a sprayer, and a method for testing the sprayer. The indicator device (100) comprises a rotating assembly (10), a counting member (20), and a first limiting assembly (30). The rotating assembly (10) rotates to trigger completion of use of a drug for at least one time, and the container (a) is detachably connected to the rotating assembly (10); the counting member (20) is connected to the rotating assembly (10); the first limiting assembly (30) is detachably connected to the counting member (20). In the rotating process of the rotating assembly, the first limiting assembly is configured for limiting rotation of the rotating assembly relative to the counting member, so that the counting member rotates according to a first preset angle and indicates the number of times for which the container has been used or the remaining number of uses. According to the indicator device, after the drug in the container is used up, the counting member does not need to be discarded along with the container, and the counting member can also be used for the counting of the next container and can display the number of times used or the remaining number of uses.

Description

Test methods for indicator devices for containers, sprayers, and sprayers Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of medical device technology, and in particular to an indicator device for a container, a sprayer, and a test method for the sprayer. Background Technology

[0002] A nebulizer is a device that pumps out and atomizes medication for inhalation. The nebulizer is used by the patient to administer the medication. The nebulizer is connected to a container that stores the medication used to treat the disease.

[0003] To allow patients to understand the usage of the medication in the container, sprayers are usually equipped with indicators to show the number of times the medication has been used or the number of uses remaining.

[0004] Currently, sprayers include two types: replaceable containers and non-replaceable containers. For non-replaceable containers, the indicator uses parts such as lead screws and springs to count, which is a complex structure. For replaceable containers, the indicator is connected to the container, and the indicator must be discarded along with the container. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the present application provides an indicator device for a container, a sprayer, and a method for testing the sprayer to solve at least one problem existing in the prior art.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an indicator device for a container used to hold a drug, the indicator device comprising:

[0007] A rotating component that triggers the drug to be used at least once by rotating;

[0008] A counting element, which is connected to the rotating assembly;

[0009] A first limiting component, which is detachably connected to the counting element;

[0010] During the rotation of the rotating component, when the first limiting component is separated from the counter in a first state, the rotating component rotates relative to the counter; when the first limiting component is connected to the counter in a second state, the counter rotates synchronously with the rotating component, so that the counter rotates by a first preset angle, and the counter indicates the number of times the container has been used or the number of times it remains to be used.

[0011] In conjunction with a first aspect of this application, in an alternative embodiment, the first limiting component includes a first elastic element connected to the rotating component;

[0012] When the first elastic element is in the first state, the rotating component is disengaged from the counting element;

[0013] When the first elastic element is in the second state, the rotating assembly can drive the counter element to rotate.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect of this application, in an optional embodiment, the counting element is provided with a plurality of first ratchet teeth, and the first elastic element is provided with a first pawl;

[0015] When the first elastic element is in the second state, the first pawl engages with the first ratchet tooth.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect of this application, in an optional embodiment, the rotating assembly is provided with a first clearance hole and an elastic arm, one end of the elastic arm being connected to the inner wall of one end of the first clearance hole, and the other end being a free end, so as to form the first elastic element.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect of this application, in an alternative embodiment, the first limiting component further includes a first housing connected to the rotating component, and the counting element is located between the first housing and the first elastic element;

[0018] When the first housing compresses the first elastic member, the first elastic member separates from the counting member, and the first elastic member is in the first form;

[0019] When the inner wall of the first housing avoids the first elastic element, the first elastic element comes into contact with the counting element, and the first elastic element is in the second state.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect of this application, in an optional embodiment, the first housing is provided with a plurality of second ratchet teeth, one end face of the counter is provided with a plurality of third ratchet teeth that mesh with the second ratchet teeth, and a plurality of spring arms extend from the other end face of the counter, the ends of the plurality of spring arms abutting against the rotating assembly so that the counter rotates in one direction.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect of this application, in an optional embodiment, the inner wall of the first housing is provided with a first annular surface extending circumferentially thereon, and a first groove connecting the first annular surface;

[0022] When the first annular surface abuts against the first elastic element, the first elastic element is in the first state;

[0023] When the first groove is positioned opposite the first elastic member, the first elastic member is in the second state.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect of this application, in an optional embodiment, the first elastic member is provided with a first protrusion;

[0025] When the first protrusion abuts against the first annular surface, the first elastic element is in the first state;

[0026] When the first protrusion rotates to be opposite to the position of the first groove, the first elastic element is in the second state;

[0027] The width of the first protrusion is smaller than the width of the first groove.

[0028] In conjunction with the first aspect of this application, in an optional embodiment, the counter element is further provided with a notch;

[0029] The indicator device further includes:

[0030] A locking element that is movable along the axial direction of the first housing, the locking element being located between the rotating assembly and the first housing;

[0031] When the counter rotates to a second preset angle, the locking member can be inserted into the notch to lock the position between the rotating component counter and the first housing.

[0032] In conjunction with a first aspect of this application, in an alternative embodiment, the locking member includes a movable block and a spring, the spring being connected to the movable block, the movable block having a second protrusion that matches the notch;

[0033] When the counter rotates to a second preset angle, the second protrusion moves into the notch under the action of the spring.

[0034] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a sprayer including an indicator device for a container as described in any embodiment provided in the first aspect.

[0035] In conjunction with a second aspect of this application, in an optional embodiment, the sprayer further includes:

[0036] A container used to hold medicines;

[0037] A spray nozzle connected to the container;

[0038] The rotating component includes:

[0039] An actuator, which is connected to the counter and is rotatable relative to the counter;

[0040] A retainer, which is movably connected to the actuator, the retainer being connected to the spraying component;

[0041] A cam element, used to guide the retainer to move relative to the actuator;

[0042] When the actuator rotates, it drives the retainer to rotate. Under the guidance of the cam, the retainer drives the sprayer to move and triggers the drug in the container to be sprayed in a mist. After at least one spray is completed, the counter rotates with the actuator by a first preset angle and counts.

[0043] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a method for testing a sprayer, based on the sprayer provided in the second aspect, the testing method comprising:

[0044] Adjust the first limiting component so that during the rotation of the rotating component, the first limiting component and the counter are always in the first state;

[0045] The rotating component rotates to trigger the drug to be used at least once.

[0046] In conjunction with a third aspect of this application, in an optional embodiment, adjusting the first limiting component such that, during the rotation of the rotating component, the first limiting component and the counter are always in the first state includes:

[0047] Adjust the first limiting component to form the second limiting component;

[0048] The second limiting component enables the rotating component to rotate relative to the counting component.

[0049] The indicator device for containers provided in this application embodiment connects a counter for indication to a rotating assembly. During rotation, based on the restriction of a first limiting assembly, the counter counts the use of the container. This indicator device can be used with both replaceable and non-replaceable sprayers. After the medicine in the container is used up, the counter does not need to be discarded with the container. The counter can also be used to count the next container and can display the number of uses or the number of uses remaining. Moreover, the indicator device has a simple structure.

[0050] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0051] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:

[0052] Figure 1 is an exploded view of an indicator device for a container provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 2 is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of an indicator device for a container provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 3 is an enlarged view of point B in Figure 1;

[0055] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of point A in Figure 1;

[0056] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the first elastic member and the first housing in the first configuration of the indicator device for a container provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the first elastic member and the first housing in the second form of the indicator device for a container provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0058] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the positional relationship between the first elastic member in the second form and the first housing in an indicator device for a container provided in another embodiment of this application;

[0059] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the counter element in the indicator device for a container provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0060] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the counter, rotating assembly, first elastic member in a second configuration, and first housing in an indicator device for a container provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0061] Figure 10 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the sprayer provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0062] Figure 11 is an enlarged view of point C in Figure 10;

[0063] Figure 12a is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the actuator of the sprayer provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0064] Figure 12b is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the locking component of the sprayer provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0065] Figure 13 is a flowchart illustrating the testing method for the sprayer provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0066] Figure 14 is an exploded view of the structure of the test sprayer device provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0067] Reference numerals: a, container; 100, indicator device; 10, rotating assembly; 11, actuator; 12, retaining element; 13, cam element; 110, flange; 120, first clearance hole; 130, latch; 20, counter element; 210, first ratchet; 220, mark; 230, third ratchet; 240, spring arm; 250, notch; 30, first limiting assembly; 310, first housing; 311, first annular surface; 312, first groove; 3121, inclined surface; 313, second ratchet; 314, annular groove; 315, window; 320, first elastic element; 321, first pawl; 322, first protrusion; 40, locking element; 410, moving block; 411, second protrusion; 420, spring; 50, spray element; 60. Second limiting component; 610. Second housing; 620. Second elastic element. Detailed Implementation

[0068] Exemplary embodiments of the present application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the present application are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the present application may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the specific embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough understanding of the present application and to fully convey the scope of the disclosure of the present application to those skilled in the art.

[0069] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of this application. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that this application can be practiced without one or more of these details. In other instances, to avoid confusion with this application, some technical features well-known in the art have not been described; that is, not all features of actual embodiments are described herein, nor are well-known functions and structures described in detail.

[0070] In the accompanying drawings, for clarity, the dimensions of layers, areas, and elements, as well as their relative dimensions, may be exaggerated. The same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout.

[0071] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as "on," "adjacent to," "connected to," or "coupled to" other elements or layers, it may be directly on, adjacent to, connected to, or coupled to other elements or layers, or there may be intervening elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as "directly on," "directly adjacent to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" other elements or layers, there are no intervening elements or layers. It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or portions, these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, or portion from another element, component, area, layer, or portion. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of this application, the first element, component, area, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, component, area, layer, or portion. And the discussion of a second element, component, area, layer, or portion does not imply that the first element, component, area, layer, or portion necessarily exists in this application.

[0072] Spatial relation terms such as “below,” “under,” “below,” “under,” “above,” “above,” etc., are used herein for convenience of description to describe the relationship between one element or feature shown in the figure and other elements or features. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientation shown in the figure, spatial relation terms are intended to also include different orientations of the device in use and operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, then the element or feature described as “below,” “under,” or “below” other elements or features will be oriented “above” other elements or features. Therefore, the exemplary terms “below” and “under” can include both above and below orientations. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or otherwise) and the spatial descriptive terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0073] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application. When used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including,” when used in this specification, identify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups. When used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of the associated listed items.

[0074] In order to fully understand the present application, detailed steps and detailed structures will be presented in the following description to illustrate the technical solution of the present application. The preferred embodiments of the present application are described in detail below. However, in addition to these detailed descriptions, the present application may also have other implementation methods.

[0075] In existing technology, sprayers include those with replaceable containers and those with non-replaceable containers. For sprayers with replaceable containers, the indicator is connected to the container, and after the medicine in the container is used up, the indicator and the container must be discarded together. For sprayers with non-replaceable containers, the indicator uses a lead screw to rotate and drive a vernier to float upward to achieve counting. The indicator includes many parts, and the machining precision requirements of each part are high, which increases the manufacturing cost of the indicator.

[0076] To address the aforementioned technical problems, the indicator device for containers provided in this application can be either detachably or non-detachably connected to the container. When the medicine in a container is used up and discarded, the counter does not need to be disassembled, and the counter can still be used to count and indicate the next container. Furthermore, by using a first limiting component to restrict the rotation of the rotating component relative to the counter during the rotation process, the counting of the counter is achieved. This indicator device has a simple structure and can reduce costs.

[0077] The indicator device for containers provided in the embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] Specifically, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the indicator device 100 for a container provided in this application embodiment includes a rotating assembly 10, a counting component 20, and a first limiting component 30.

[0079] The rotating component 10 rotates to trigger the drug to be used at least once. Container a is detachably connected to the rotating component 10 and is used to hold the drug. The rotation of the rotating component 10 can trigger the use of the drug. When the drug in container a is used up, container a is removed from the rotating component 10 and discarded, and a new container a is reinstalled.

[0080] Drugs can exist in gaseous, liquid, or solid states, but of course, they are not limited to these states.

[0081] The counting element 20 is connected to the rotating assembly 10, and the first limiting component 30 is detachably connected to the counting element 20. During the rotation of the rotating assembly 10, the positional relationship between the first limiting component 30 and the counting element 20 exists in two states. In the first state, the first limiting component 30 is separated from the counting element 20, and the rotating assembly 10 rotates relative to the counting element 20. In this state, the counting element 20 remains stationary and does not perform counting operations while the rotating assembly 10 rotates. In the second state, the first limiting component 30 is connected to the counting element 20, and the rotating assembly 10 and the counting element 20 rotate synchronously, i.e., the rotating assembly 10 is stationary relative to the counting element 20. The first limiting component 30 allows the first limiting component 30 and the counting element 20 to switch between the first and second states. When the counting element 20 rotates with the rotating assembly 10, it is in the second state, rotating by a first preset angle to perform counting. The counting element 20 can indicate the number of times container a has been used or the number of uses remaining, allowing the patient to know the status of the medication in container a.

[0082] The advantages of this application embodiment are: the state of the first limiting component 30 can be adjusted according to the usage situation. For example, in the test state, when the medicine in container a is used, the counter 20 does not need to count, so the first limiting component 30 can be adjusted to the first state, and the medicine in container a can be used by rotating component 10; while in the normal use state, the first limiting component 30 can be adjusted to the second state, and the counter 20 can be driven by rotating component 10 to count, thereby indicating the number of times container a has been used or the number of times it remains to be used. It is highly flexible and convenient for testing and measurement.

[0083] It should be noted that the indicator device 100 in this embodiment of the invention can be applied to both replaceable-container sprayers and non-replaceable-container sprayers. Compared to existing non-replaceable-container sprayers, this embodiment of the invention has a simpler structure, does not require complex counting structures such as lead screws and sliders, has a more compact overall structure, saves space, and facilitates the miniaturization design of sprayers. Furthermore, this embodiment of the invention has higher counting accuracy and better stability. Compared to existing replaceable-container sprayers, this embodiment of the invention does not require the counting component to be discarded with the container after the medicine in the container is used up; the original counting component can be used for counting the next container, resulting in lower overall cost and significantly reducing expenses.

[0084] Furthermore, in the above-mentioned indicator device 100, the container a is detachably connected to the rotating assembly 10. When the medicine in a container a is used up, only the container a needs to be discarded without discarding other parts. The indicator device 100 can also be used to count the number of uses or the remaining uses of the next container a. In addition, the indicator device 100 can count the number of uses or the remaining uses of the container a by rotating the rotating assembly 10. The structure and counting principle of the indicator device 100 are simple.

[0085] In an optional embodiment, the first limiting component 30 includes a first elastic element 320, which is connected to the rotating component 10. When the first elastic element 320 is in a first state, the rotating component 10 is disengaged from the counting element 20; when the first elastic element 320 is in a second state, the rotating component 10 can drive the counting element 20 to rotate.

[0086] When the first elastic element 320 is in the first state, the rotating assembly 10 rotates relative to the counting element 20, i.e., both are in the first state. When the first elastic element 320 is in the second state, the rotating assembly 10 and the counting element 20 rotate synchronously, i.e., both are in the second state. This embodiment utilizes the deformation of the first elastic element 320 connected to the rotating assembly 10 during rotation to achieve the switching between the first and second states. The rotation of the rotating assembly 10 can trigger the drug to be used at least once, and simultaneously count the number of times the drug has been used or the remaining number of uses.

[0087] In an optional embodiment, as shown in FIG2, the first limiting component 30 further includes a first housing 310, which is connected to the rotating component 10, and a counter 20 is located between the first housing 310 and the first elastic member 320. When the first housing 310 presses against the first elastic member 320, the first elastic member 320 separates from the counter 20, and the first elastic member 320 is in a first state; when the inner wall of the first housing 310 avoids the first elastic member 320, the first elastic member 320 comes into contact with the counter 20, and the first elastic member 320 is in a second state.

[0088] During the rotation of the rotating assembly 10, the first elastic element 320 rotates synchronously with the rotating assembly 10. When the first housing 310 compresses the first elastic element 320 and causes it to deform, the first elastic element 320 separates from the counting element 20. When the first housing 310 avoids the first elastic element 320, causing the deformation of the first elastic element 320 to decrease or to a natural state, the first elastic element 320 comes into contact with the counting element 20, and the counting element 20 rotates synchronously with the rotating assembly 10 by a first preset angle to perform counting.

[0089] As shown in Figure 2, the rotating component 10 is provided with a buckle 130, and the first housing 310 has an annular groove 314 along its circumference. When the rotating component 10 rotates, the buckle 130 rotates within the annular groove 314.

[0090] In an optional embodiment, as shown in FIG3, the inner wall of the first housing 310 is provided with a first annular surface 311 extending circumferentially therein, and a first groove 312 connecting the first annular surface 311.

[0091] The first elastic element 320 rotates relative to the first housing 310 following the rotating assembly 10. When the first elastic element 320 comes into contact with the first annular surface 311, the first annular surface 311 compresses the first elastic element 320, and the first elastic element 320 is in a first state. When the first elastic element 320 moves to a position relative to the first groove 312, the deformation of the first elastic element 320 decreases or returns to its natural state, and the first elastic element 320 is in a second state.

[0092] The embodiments of this application feature a simple manufacturing process and a simple structure due to the first annular surface 311 and the first groove 312 provided in the first housing 310.

[0093] In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG4, the first elastic member 320 is provided with a first protrusion 322, which is located away from the counter member 20.

[0094] The first elastic element 320 rotates relative to the first housing 310 following the rotation component 10. During the process of the first protrusion 322 abutting against the first annular surface 311, the first elastic element 320 is in the first state; when the first protrusion 322 rotates to be opposite to the position of the first groove 312, the first elastic element 320 is in the second state.

[0095] The width of the first protrusion 322 is smaller than the width of the first groove 312, so that the first protrusion 322 can move within the first groove 312. The distance that the first protrusion 322 moves within the first groove 312 corresponds to the angle of rotation of the counter 20, which is also the first preset angle.

[0096] Preferably, the first preset angle of rotation of the counter 20 corresponds to the distance of a first ratchet 210.

[0097] As shown in Figure 5, Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the first housing 310, the first elastic element 320, and the rotating assembly 10 at the first protrusion 322. During the rotation of the first elastic element 320 following the rotation of the rotating assembly 10, the rotating assembly 10 rotates in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 5. When the first protrusion 322 abuts against the first annular surface 311, the first elastic element 320 is in the first state.

[0098] The rotating assembly 10 rotates in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 5. When the first protrusion 322 rotates into the first groove 312, the first elastic member 320 moves in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 6, thereby reducing the deformation of the first elastic member 320 or restoring it to its natural state.

[0099] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the first housing 310 is provided with a first groove 312. After the rotating component 10 rotates one revolution, it can count the number of times the drug in container a has been used or the remaining number of times it can be used.

[0100] Figure 7 shows that the first housing 310 is provided with two oppositely arranged first grooves 312, that is, when the rotating component 10 rotates half a turn, the number of times the drug is used or the remaining number of times it is used in the container a can be counted.

[0101] In this embodiment, the rotating component 10 completes the counting of the number of uses or remaining uses of the drug in container a after rotating at a set angle. This set angle is not limited and can be 360°, 180°, 120°, etc. This set angle can be associated with the angle at which the rotating component 10 rotates to complete at least one use of the drug in container a.

[0102] In an optional embodiment, the first groove 312 is provided with an inclined surface 3121, as shown in FIG5. During the rotation of the rotating assembly 10 in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG5, the inclined surface 3121 can facilitate the first protrusion 322 provided by the first elastic member 320 to disengage from the first groove 312, thereby further improving the rotational smoothness of the rotating assembly 10.

[0103] In an optional embodiment, as shown in Figures 4, 6 and 8, the counter 20 is provided with a plurality of first ratchet teeth 210, and the first elastic member 320 is provided with a first pawl 321.

[0104] When the first elastic element 320 is in the state shown in FIG. 6, i.e. the second form, the first pawl 321 engages with the first ratchet 210, and the counter element 20 rotates following the rotating assembly 10.

[0105] The outer surface of the counter 20 has a mark 220, which can be a scale, a number, a pattern, a letter, etc. The mark 220 can be used to indicate the usage status of the medication in the patient's container.

[0106] The first housing 310 has a window 315, which corresponds to a partial identifier 220, and the partial identifier 220 can provide indication.

[0107] Figure 9 shows a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the first housing 310, the counter 20, and the rotating assembly 10 at the first pawl 321. Figure 9 also shows a schematic diagram of the first pawl 321 engaged with the first ratchet tooth 210.

[0108] In an optional embodiment, as shown in Figures 4 and 9, the rotating assembly 10 is provided with a first clearance hole 120 and an elastic arm. One end of the elastic arm is connected to the inner wall of one end of the first clearance hole 120, and the other end is a free end, so as to form a first elastic element 320.

[0109] One end of the elastic arm is connected to the first clearance hole 120, and the other end is a free end forming the first elastic element 320. The elastic arm deforms under the action of the first housing 310, which allows the first pawl 321 to contact or move away from the first ratchet 210, thereby realizing the switching between the rotating assembly 10 and the counting element 20 in the first state and the second state. Connecting the first elastic element 320 into the first clearance hole 120 can improve the structural compactness of the rotating assembly 10, the first housing 310 and the counting element 20.

[0110] In an optional embodiment, as shown in Figures 2, 3 and 8, the first housing 310 is provided with a plurality of second ratchet teeth 313, one end face of the counter 20 is provided with a plurality of third ratchet teeth 230 that mesh with the second ratchet teeth 313, and a plurality of spring arms 240 extend from the other end face of the counter 20, the ends of the plurality of spring arms 240 abutting against the rotating assembly 10 so that the counter 20 rotates in one direction.

[0111] The rotating assembly 10 is also provided with a flange 110, and the spring arm 240 abuts against the flange 110, which enables the third ratchet 230 and the second ratchet 313 to always be engaged, and enables the counter 20 to rotate in one direction. In addition, the engagement of the third ratchet 230 and the second ratchet 313 can improve the accuracy of the rotation angle of the counter 20, so that the markings on the counter 20 can indicate more accurately.

[0112] As shown in Figure 8, multiple spring arms 240 are circumferentially distributed around the axis of the counter 20, and an acute angle is formed between the spring arms 240 and the end face of the counter 20, which enables the rotating assembly 10 to rotate more smoothly.

[0113] In an alternative embodiment, as shown in Figures 2, 10, and 11, the counter 20 is further provided with a notch 250. The indicator device 100 also includes a locking member 40 located between the rotating assembly 10 and the first housing 310, the locking member 40 being movable along the axial direction of the first housing.

[0114] When the counter 20 rotates to a cumulative second preset angle, the locking member 40 can be inserted into the notch 250 to lock the position between the counter 20 and the first housing 310. Generally, the counter 20 rotates to a cumulative second preset angle after the medicine in container a is used up. The second preset angle is the sum of multiple first preset angles. Preferably, the second preset angle reached by the counter 20 is the rotation limit of the counter 20. A groove matching the locking member 40 is provided on the inner wall of the first housing 310, and the locking member 40 can move relative to the first housing 310 along the axial direction of the counter 20. When the counter 20 rotates to a cumulative second preset angle, the notch 250 on the counter 20 rotates to a position opposite to the locking member 40, and the locking member 40 can be inserted into the notch 250 to prevent the counter 20 from continuing to count.

[0115] Furthermore, the locking member 40 includes a movable block 410 and a spring 420 connected to the movable block 410. The movable block 410 has a second protrusion 411 that matches a notch 250.

[0116] When the medicine in container a is not used up, the second protrusion 411 contacts the third ratchet 230 on one end face of the counter 20, and the spring 420 is in a compressed state. When the counter 20 rotates to reach the second preset angle, and the notch 250 is opposite to the second protrusion 411, the second protrusion 411 moves into the notch 250 under the action of the spring 420.

[0117] This application also provides a sprayer, as shown in FIG10, which includes an indicator device 100 for a container provided in any of the above embodiments.

[0118] In an alternative embodiment, the sprayer further includes a container a, a spraying element 50, a retainer 12, and a cam element 13.

[0119] Container a is used to hold the medicine, and spray component 50 is connected to container a.

[0120] The rotating assembly 10 includes an actuator 11, a retainer 12, and a cam 13. The actuator 11 is connected to the counter 20 and is rotatable relative to the counter 20. The retainer 12 is movably connected to the actuator 11, and is connected to the sprayer 50. The retainer 12 may be detachably or non-detachably connected to container a. The cam 13 guides the retainer 12 to move relative to the actuator 11.

[0121] When the actuator 11 rotates, it drives the retainer 12 to rotate. Under the guidance of the cam 13, the retainer 12 drives the sprayer 50 to move and triggers the drug in the container a to be sprayed in a mist. After at least one spray is completed, the counter 20 follows the actuator 11 to rotate a first preset angle and counts, indicating the number of times the drug is used or the number of times it is used remaining, which can play a good guiding role for the patient.

[0122] In an optional embodiment, as shown in Figures 10, 11, 12a, and 12b, the actuator 11 has a first limiting groove 140, and the moving block 410 is provided with a limiting rib 412. When the counter 20 rotates and accumulates to a second preset angle, the notch 250 provided on the counter 20 corresponds to the position of the second protrusion 411, and the second protrusion 411 is inserted into the notch 250 under the action of the spring 420. The limiting rib 412 provided on the moving block 410 is inserted into the first limiting groove 140 provided on the actuator 11, thereby limiting the relative position between the actuator 11 and the first housing 310.

[0123] When the counter 20 has not reached the second preset angle after rotation, the end face of the second protrusion 411 abuts against the end face of the counter 20. During the rotation of the actuator 11, the limiting rib 412 will not be inserted into the first limiting groove 140, and the rotation operation can continue.

[0124] In an optional embodiment, the sprayer includes an unlocking component (not shown in the figure). After the sprayer is replaced with a new container, the unlocking component is used to move the limiting rib 412 out of the first limiting groove 140 to unlock it. The rotating actuator 11 is used to trigger the drug in the container to be sprayed in a mist, so that the counter 20 counts the use of the new container.

[0125] After the counter 20 is unlocked, the rotating component 10 drives the counter 20 to continue rotating. When the counter 20 rotates to the initial position, the counter 20 is reset. In this way, the counter 20 can start counting again from 0, thus realizing the reuse of the counter 20.

[0126] The specific structure, locking principle, and unlocking principle of the sprayer can be found in other related patents filed by the applicant, and will not be described in detail in this application.

[0127] The sprayer undergoes a spray test before leaving the factory. Although counting during the testing phase does not affect the patient's use, the indication of the number of uses or remaining uses on the counter may mislead the patient.

[0128] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a testing method for the nebulizer provided in the above embodiments. This testing method performs a usage test on the nebulizer before use. During the test, the medication in the container is used at least once, and the counter 20 does not rotate to count, thus avoiding misleading the patient by the indications on the counter 20 and improving the patient's user experience.

[0129] Specifically, as shown in Figures 1, 13, and 14, the test method includes the following steps:

[0130] S01. Adjust the first limiting component 30 so that the first limiting component 30 and the counter component 20 are always in the first state during the rotation of the rotating component 10.

[0131] In the first state, the first limiting component 30 and the counter component 20 are separated, and the rotating component 10 rotates relative to the counter component 20.

[0132] S02, The rotation of the rotating component 10 triggers the drug to be used at least once.

[0133] Complete the usage test of the sprayer and be able to prevent the counter 20 from counting.

[0134] In an optional embodiment, step S01 further includes:

[0135] Adjust the first limiting component 30 to form the second limiting component 60.

[0136] The second limiting component 60 enables the rotating component 10 to rotate relative to the counting component 20.

[0137] During the rotation of the rotating component 10, under the action of the second limiting component 60, the rotating component 10 is always able to rotate relative to the counting component 20.

[0138] In an alternative embodiment, the second limiting component 60 is formed by filling a first groove 312 on the inner wall of the first housing 310 in the first limiting component 30.

[0139] In an alternative embodiment, the second limiting assembly 60 is formed by replacing the first housing 310 in the first limiting assembly 30 with a second housing 610. The inner wall of the first housing 310 has a first groove for avoiding the first elastic member 320, while the inner wall of the second housing 610 does not have a groove for avoiding the second elastic member 620.

[0140] This application embodiment also provides a test sprayer, which is used to test the sprayer before its use. During the test, the drug in the container is used at least once, and the counter 20 does not rotate to count, so as to avoid misleading the patient by the indication on the counter 20 and improve the patient's user experience.

[0141] Specifically, the test sprayer includes a container a, a spray element 50, and an indicator mechanism. The container a is used to hold the drug, and the spray element 50 is connected to the container a.

[0142] The indicating mechanism includes a rotating assembly 10, a counter 20, and a second limiting assembly 60. The rotating assembly 10 rotates to trigger at least one use of the drug, and container a is connected to the rotating assembly 10. The counter 20 is connected to the rotating assembly 10; the second limiting assembly 60 is connected to the rotating assembly 10.

[0143] During the rotation of the rotating component 10, the second limiting component 60 is used to enable the rotating component 10 to rotate relative to the counting component 20, and the rotation angle of the counting component 20 is 0°.

[0144] The rotating assembly 10 includes an actuator 11, a retainer 12, and a cam 13. The actuator 11 is connected to the counter 20 and is rotatable relative to the counter 20. The retainer 12 is movably connected to the actuator 11 and is connected to the sprayer 50. The cam 13 guides the retainer 12 to move relative to the actuator 11.

[0145] When the actuator 11 rotates, the actuator 11 drives the retainer 12 to rotate, and under the guidance of the cam 13, the retainer 12 drives the sprayer 50 to move and triggers the drug in the container a to be sprayed in a mist. After at least one spray is completed, the counter 20 rotates at an angle of 0°, that is, the counter 20 does not count.

[0146] In an optional embodiment, as shown in FIG14, the second limiting component 60 includes a second elastic element 620, which has the same structure and principle as the first elastic element 610 involved in the above embodiment, and will not be described again here.

[0147] In an optional embodiment, the second limiting component 60 further includes a second housing 610, which differs from the first housing 310 in that the first housing 310 is provided with a first groove 312 for avoidance, while the inner wall of the second housing 610 is not provided with one.

[0148] When the first elastic member 320 is positioned opposite the first groove 312, the first elastic member 320 is in the second state and can abut against the counting member 20. However, there is no clearance on the inner wall of the second housing 610, so the second elastic member 620 is always in the first state of the first elastic member 320 during the rotation of the rotating assembly 10, thereby preventing the counting member 20 from performing rotation counting.

[0149] During the testing phase, the counting unit 20 was not rotated, allowing patients to start counting from zero during use, thus improving the user experience. It should be understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and not intended to encompass all possible implementations included in the claims. Various modifications and changes can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Similarly, the various technical features of the above embodiments can be arbitrarily combined to form other embodiments of this application that may not be explicitly described. Therefore, the above embodiments only illustrate several implementations of this application and do not limit the scope of protection of this patent application.

Claims

1. An indicator device for a container (a) for holding a drug, characterized in that, The indicator device (100) includes: A rotating component (10) that triggers the drug to be used at least once by rotating; A counting element (20) is connected to the rotating assembly (10); A first limiting component (30) is detachably connected to the counting element (20); During the rotation of the rotating component (10), when the first limiting component (30) is separated from the counter (20) in a first state, the rotating component (10) rotates relative to the counter (20); when the first limiting component (30) is connected to the counter (20) in a second state, the counter (20) rotates synchronously with the rotating component (10) so that the counter (20) rotates by a first preset angle, and the counter (20) indicates the number of times the container (a) has been used or the number of times it remains to be used.

2. The indicator device for a container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first limiting component (30) includes a first elastic element (320) which is connected to the rotating component (10); When the first elastic element (320) is in the first state, the rotating component (10) and the counting element (20) are disengaged from the driving engagement; When the first elastic element (320) is in the second state, the rotating component (10) can drive the counting element (20) to rotate.

3. The indicator device for a container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The counting element (20) is provided with a plurality of first ratchet teeth (210), and the first elastic element (320) is provided with a first pawl (321); When the first elastic element (320) is in the second state, the first pawl (321) engages with the first ratchet (210).

4. The indicator device for a container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The rotating assembly (10) is provided with a first clearance hole (120) and an elastic arm. One end of the elastic arm is connected to the inner wall of one end of the first clearance hole (120), and the other end is a free end, so as to form the first elastic element (320).

5. The indicator device for a container according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first limiting component (30) further includes a first housing (310) connected to the rotating component (10), and the counting element (20) is located between the first housing (310) and the first elastic element (320); When the first housing (310) presses the first elastic member (320), the first elastic member (320) separates from the counting member (20), and the first elastic member (320) is in the first form; When the inner wall of the first housing (310) avoids the first elastic member (320), the first elastic member (320) comes into contact with the counting member (20), and the first elastic member (320) is in the second state.

6. The indicator device for a container according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first housing (310) is provided with a plurality of second ratchet teeth (313), and one end face of the counter (20) is provided with a plurality of third ratchet teeth (230) that mesh with the second ratchet teeth (313). A plurality of spring arms (240) extend from the other end face of the counter (20), and the ends of the plurality of spring arms (240) abut against the rotating assembly (10) so that the counter (20) rotates in one direction.

7. The indicator device for a container according to claim 5, characterized in that, The inner wall of the first housing (310) is provided with a first annular surface (311) extending in its circumference, and a first groove (312) connecting the first annular surface (311); When the first annular surface (311) abuts against the first elastic member (320), the first elastic member (320) is in the first state; When the first groove (312) is positioned opposite the first elastic member (320), the first elastic member (320) is in the second state.

8. The indicator device for a container according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first elastic element (320) is provided with a first protrusion (322); When the first protrusion (322) abuts against the first annular surface (311), the first elastic element (320) is in the first state; When the first protrusion (322) is rotated to be opposite to the position of the first groove (312), the first elastic member (320) is in the second state; The width of the first protrusion (322) is smaller than the width of the first groove (312).

9. The indicator device for a container according to claim 5, characterized in that, The counting element (20) is also provided with a notch (250); The indicator device further includes: A locking element (40) is movable along the axial direction of the first housing (310), the locking element (40) being located between the rotating assembly (10) and the first housing (310); When the counter (20) rotates to a second preset angle, the locking member (40) can be inserted into the notch (250) to lock the position between the counter (20) and the first housing (310).

10. The indicator device for a container according to claim 9, characterized in that, The locking member (40) includes a movable block (410) and a spring (420), the spring (420) being connected to the movable block (410), the movable block (410) having a second protrusion (411) that matches the notch (250); When the counter (20) rotates to a second preset angle, the second protrusion (411) moves into the notch (250) under the action of the spring (420).

11. A sprayer, characterized in that, Includes the indicator device for a container as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The sprayer according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: A container (a) used to hold medicines; A spraying component (50) connected to the container (a); The rotating assembly (10) includes: An actuator (11) is connected to the counter (20); A retainer (12) is movably connected to the actuator (11), and the retainer (12) is connected to the sprayer (50); A cam (13) is used to guide the retainer (12) to move relative to the actuator (11); When the actuator (11) rotates, the actuator (11) drives the retainer (12) to rotate. Under the guidance of the cam (13), the retainer (12) drives the sprayer (50) to move and triggers the drug in the container (a) to be sprayed in a mist. After at least one spray is completed, the counter (20) follows the actuator (11) to rotate a first preset angle and counts.

13. A test method for a sprayer, based on the sprayer of claim 11, characterized in that, The testing method includes: Adjust the first limiting component (30) so that during the rotation of the rotating component (10), the first limiting component (30) and the counter (20) are always in the first state; The rotation is achieved by the rotating component (10) to trigger the drug to be used at least once.

14. The test method for the sprayer according to claim 13, characterized in that, The adjustment of the first limiting component (30) to ensure that the first limiting component (30) and the counter (20) remain in the first state during the rotation of the rotating component (10) includes: Adjust the first limiting component (30) to form the second limiting component (60); The second limiting component (60) enables the rotating component (10) to rotate relative to the counting component (20).

Images