Capsule Inhaler With Flush Spring Button and Pivoting Receptacle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inhaler devices for pulverulent substances are not user-friendly and prone to dust or dirt entry when carried in a pocket, as they have exposed components that can accidentally activate or allow foreign particles to enter the device.
Innovation Solution
A capsule inhaler design where the receptacle pivots inwardly as part of the narrow side wall, with a spring-mounted button that does not project beyond the device's plane, ensuring the device is closed on all sides, including when not in use, and features a pivotable cap to cover the mouthpiece, preventing dust and dirt entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the button for needle actuation protrudes beyond the device plane, then the needle can be easily actuated, but the device is not closed and allows dust or dirt entry
Solution Approach 1:
The button is designed to be movable relative to the housing, allowing it to protrude dynamically when pressed for needle actuation, while returning to a flush position with the housing surface when not in use. This dynamic configuration enables easy button actuation during operation while maintaining a closed, protective surface that prevents dust and dirt entry during storage and transport.
2Device complexity
If the receptacle is fixed in the housing, then the structure is simple, but the device cannot be securely closed when carried
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacle is designed to be pivotably movable relative to the housing, allowing it to rotate between a closed position (when carried) and an open position (for capsule insertion). This dynamic design enables the device to maintain a secure, closed configuration during transport to prevent dust entry, while still providing easy access for capsule loading when needed.
3Ease of operation
If the device has exposed components for pocket carrying, then operation is convenient, but accidental activation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The button and receptacle are designed to be recessed or flush with the housing surface when not in use, creating a protective configuration that prevents accidental activation during pocket carrying. The components only become accessible and functional when intentionally positioned for operation, thereby preventing unintended needle actuation while maintaining convenience during actual use.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design provides a compact, user-friendly inhaler that is secure when carried, preventing accidental activation and dust entry, maintaining a closed configuration for enhanced convenience and cleanliness.
Implementation Method 1
the actuation surface of which, in order to be acted upon, protrudes beyond the narrow side wall of the housing even when the device is in the non-use position. By moving the button-like slide further, the capsule wall is pierced by needles fixed to said button-like slide, this piercing taking place by overcoming the spring force which forces the needles and the button-like slide back into an unloaded position.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for inhaling powdery substances, in particular of a medical nature, contained in capsules, can be brought into an emptying position via a receptacle that can be moved in a flat housing, in which position the capsule wall can be pierced via movable needles for the purpose of sucking out the capsule content through a mouthpiece channel, which extends in axial extension of the capsule chamber. The receptacle is designed as a part of the narrow lateral wall of the flat housing that can be pivoted out to a limited extent about an axis and a partial region of the narrow lateral wall plane is designed as a spring-loaded push-button for the needle bearings, in such a way that the partial region moves back to the plane of the narrow lateral wall at a maximum.