Powder filling apparatus and methods for their use

USRE42942E1 · kind E1 · reissue

Assignee

• Novartis AG · CH

Inventors

• Gordon Stout · Fresno, US
• Xuyen Pham · Fremont, US
• Michael Rocchio · Hayward, US
• Kyle Naydo · Mountain View, US
• Derrick J. Parks · Belmont, US
• Patrick Reich · Belmont, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 6, 2003
• Grant date: Nov 22, 2011
• Expiry date: Feb 6, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC —): General

Abstract

The invention provides methods, systems and apparatus for the metered transport of fine powders into receptacles. According to one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus is provided which comprises a hopper having an opening. The hopper is adapted to receive a bed of fine powder. At least one chamber, which is moveable to allow the chamber to be placed in close proximity to the opening, is also provided. An element having a proximal end and a distal end is positioned within the hopper such that the distal end is near the opening. A vibrator motor is provided to vibrate the element when within the fine powder.