Inhaler Loading Assembly With Helical Preload Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inhalers face challenges in smoothly loading liquid into the pumping chamber and preventing accidental spraying during the transition from preloaded to triggered positions.
Innovation Solution
A loading assembly with a first component having a first helical end surface and a second component with a mating helical and horizontal section, allowing smooth rotation to a preloaded position, and an actuator to block the second component from leaving this position, preventing undesired disengagement and spraying.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the second component rotates relative to the first component along the mating helical end surfaces to move to the preloaded position, then smooth liquid loading is achieved, but the second component may accidentally leave the preloaded position causing undesired spraying
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is configured to carry the horizontal section to block the second component from leaving the preloaded position. This preliminary blocking action prevents accidental spraying before it can occur, while still allowing the intended rotation and liquid loading to proceed smoothly through the helical mating surfaces.
2Reliability
If the actuator blocks the second component from leaving the preloaded position, then accidental spraying is prevented, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator combines multiple functions into a single component: it carries the horizontal section that blocks the second component, provides the blocking action to prevent accidental spraying, and integrates with the existing helical rotation mechanism. This merging reduces the need for separate blocking mechanisms while maintaining reliability.
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
Ensures stable liquid loading and prevents accidental spraying by enabling smooth transitions and secure retention of the second component in the preloaded position, enhancing user experience and operational reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a second component (1020) including: a helical section (1022) having a second helical end surface (1024) for mating with the first helical end surface (1012)
Data Source
AI summary
A loading assembly for an inhaler and an inhaler is provided. The loading assembly includes: an actuator; a first component including a first helical end surface; and a second component including: a helical section having a second helical end surface for mating with the first helical end surface; and a horizontal section adjacent to the helical section. The first component and the second component are configured such that the second component is capable of moving away from the first component to a preloaded position in the case where the second component rotates relative to the first component in a first direction along the mating first and second helical end surfaces, and the actuator is configured to carry the horizontal section to block the second component from leaving the preloaded position in the case where the second component has been moved to the preloaded position.