Nozzle for handheld pulmonary aerosol delivery device
US7849850B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 28, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 14, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 15, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB05B1/18
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
An improved Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) nozzle particularly suitable for a handheld pulmonary aerosol inhaler increases the consistent and efficient dispensing of therapeutic liquids by reducing or eliminating wetting through shielding of discharge electrodes. Some versions further eliminate wetting while enhances neutralization of the aerosol through presentation of a corona wind of ions annularly surround the aerosol. Incorporation of improved liquid distribution with consistent pressure drops to each EHD nozzle tip allows horizontal dispensing, and by using dielectric nozzle tips with low surface energy to thereby avoid wicking between dispenses and to advantageously reduce achievable particle size when dispensing. Some versions feature enhanced snap-fit assembly and other manufacturability advantages. One of the unique features of the EHD nozzles is achieved high dose rate (microliters/minute) with low wetting and small particle size (1.0-5 microns), although these properties tend to be mutually exclusive. Furthermore, these attributes are incorporated into a conveniently small, handheld device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.