FOAM INHALATION DEVICE AND CARTRIDGE

Abstract

A foam inhalation device (874) for dispensing a foam to be inhaled by a user. The inhalation device (874) comprises a foam-generating component for generating the foam, an outlet (882) for dispensing the foam to the user, and a fluid flow path which fluidly communicates the foam-generating component with the outlet (882). The foam is generatable by the foam-generating component and flows to the outlet (882) via the fluid flow path to be inhaled by the user.

Claims

1. A foam inhalation device configured to dispense a foam to be inhaled by a user, the foam inhalation device comprising: a foam-generating-component receiving portion; a foam-generating component for configured to generate the foam; an outlet configured to dispense the foam to the user; a fluid flow path which is configured to fluidly communicate the foam-generating-component receiving portion with the outlet so that the foam is generated by the foam-generating component and flows to the outlet via the fluid flow path to be inhaled by the user.

2. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a partial barrier which obstructs part of a cross-sectional area of the fluid flow path and which is configured to limit a volume of foam dispensed by the outlet.

3. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the partial barrier is at the outlet.

4. (canceled)

5. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the partial barrier comprises a porous material having a plurality of holes of less than 2 mm diameter.

6. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 4, wherein the partial bather comprises sintered metal.

7. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the partial barrier comprises sintered steel.

8. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an air inlet in fluid communication with the fluid flow path between the outlet and the foam-generating-component receiving portion, the air inlet being spaced apart from and to a side of the outlet.

9. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the air inlet is spaced apart from the outlet by at least 20 mm.

10. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a valve between the foam-generating-component receiving portion and the outlet for selectively permitting foam to flow therebetween, the valve being at least any one of opened and closed via a user control.

11. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the valve is biased to a closed condition so that the user control is required to be continuously operated to hold open the valve.

12. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 11, wherein the valve is biased via a spring.

13. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the user control is a push button.

14. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 1, wherein there is a plurality of foam-generating components, at least one at least one of said foam-generating components being segregated from another of said foam-generating components by an openable barrier.

15. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 14, further comprising a pointed protrusion configured to open the openable barrier.

16. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 14, further comprising a pull tab configured to open the openable barrier.

17. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 14, wherein the openable barrier comprises a valve, and the device further comprises a user control configured to move the valve so as to communicate the foam-generating components.

18. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the foam inhalation device is a stable-foam inhalation device configured to dispense a stable foam, and the foam-generating component is a stable-foam-generating component.

19. (canceled)

20. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fluid-flow path comprises an expansion chamber in fluid communication with and upstream of the outlet.

21. (canceled)

22. (canceled)

23. The foam inhalation device as claimed in claim 1, wherein there are a plurality of stable-foam-generating components which together comprise a carbonate and an acid.

24. A foam inhalation device comprising: an element for producing a foam; an agitator configured to agitate the element to produce the foam; and an outlet configured to dispense the foam to a user.

Description

[0152] The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0153] FIG. 1 shows a top view of a first embodiment of a stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge according to twelfth and twenty-fourth aspects of the invention;

[0154] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge of FIG. 1;

[0155] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge of FIG. 1;

[0156] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a partitioning element of the stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge of FIG. 1;

[0157] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a second foam-generation element of the stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge of FIG. 1;

[0158] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a stable-foam inhalation device according to a first, third, ninth, fifteenth, twenty-sixth, thirtieth, thirty-first, thirty-second and thirty-third aspects of the invention, having the stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge of FIG. 1;

[0159] FIG. 7 shows a side cut away view of the stable-foam inhalation device of FIG. 6 without the stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge;

[0160] FIG. 8 shows an enlarged view of an inlet of the stable-foam inhalation device of FIG. 6 without the stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge;

[0161] FIG. 9 shows an exploded view of a rear part of the stable-foam inhalation device of FIG. 6;

[0162] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the assembled rear part of FIG. 9;

[0163] FIG. 11 shows a top view of a carrier of a second embodiment of a stable-foam inhalation device in accordance with first, third, ninth, fifteenth, twenty-sixth, thirtieth, thirty-first, thirty-second and thirty-third aspects of the invention, a block arrow showing a direction of insertion of a cartridge;

[0164] FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the carrier of FIG. 11;

[0165] FIG. 13 shows a side view of the carrier of FIG. 11;

[0166] FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of third embodiment of a stable-foam inhalation device in accordance with first, third, tenth, thirtieth, thirty-first, thirty-second and thirty-third aspects of the invention.

[0167] FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of a stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge of the stable-foam inhalation device of FIG. 14; and

[0168] FIG. 16 shows a side view of the stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge of FIG. 15;

[0169] FIG. 17 shows a side cut-away view of the stable-foam inhalation device of FIG. 14;

[0170] FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a stable-foam inhalation device in accordance with first, third, tenth, thirtieth, thirty-first, thirty-second and thirty-third aspects of the invention;

[0171] FIG. 19 shows a side view of a cartridge of the stable-foam inhalation device of FIG. 18;

[0172] FIG. 20 shows an end view of a cartridge of the stable-foam inhalation device of FIG. 18;

[0173] FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a carrier of a fifth embodiment of a foam inhalation device in accordance with first, second, twenty-seventh, twenty-eighth, and twenty ninth aspects of the invention;

[0174] FIG. 22 shows a side cutaway view of a carrier of FIG. 21;

[0175] FIG. 23 shows a bottom cutaway view of the carrier of FIG. 21;

[0176] FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of a cartridge of the foam inhalation device having the carrier of FIG. 21;

[0177] FIG. 25 shows a side view of the cartridge of FIG. 24; and

[0178] FIG. 26 shows an end view of the cartridge of FIG. 24.

[0179] Referring firstly to FIGS. 1 to 3 there is shown a first embodiment of a stable-foam inhalation-device cartridge 10. The inhalation-device cartridge 10 comprises a flexible mixing chamber 12, an expansion chamber 14, a partitioning element 16, and a discharge element 18.

[0180] The flexible mixing chamber 12 has an access opening 20 at a first end 22 and is closed at a second end 24 which is opposite the first end 22. The access opening 20 is dimensioned to receive first and second foam-generation elements 26, 28 therethrough. The access opening 20 is circular or substantially circular in shape, although it will be appreciated that other shapes may be considered such as square or triangular. Similarly, the flexible mixing chamber 12 has a circular cross-section, although other shapes may be considered. Preferably, the second end 24 is curved such that an end portion associated with the second end 24 may be considered to be semi-spherical. However, this may not be necessary, and the second end 24 could be planar or flat.

[0181] The flexible mixing chamber 12 has a first receiving portion 30 for slidably receiving the first foam-generation element 26, and a second receiving portion 32 for slidably receiving the second foam-generation element 28. The first receiving portion 30 is distal to the access opening 20 as compared to the second receiving portion 32 and is here at or adjacent to the second end 24. The second receiving portion 32 is at or adjacent to the access opening 20. The flexible mixing chamber 12 is preferably sized so that the first receiving portion 30 and the second receiving portion 32 together are defined across a majority of the length of the flexible mixing chamber 12, and more preferable are defined across substantially the entire length of the flexible mixing chamber 12.

[0182] The flexible mixing chamber 12 preferably comprises a thermoplastic elastomer which provides the desired flexibility of the mixing chamber 12. However, it will be appreciated that other flexible materials may be considered such as silicone, other elastomeric materials, for example rubber, or other flexible plastics. The flexibility of the mixing chamber 12 allows for compressive manual actuation or activation of the first and/or second foam-generation elements. However, in the instance of other actuation or activation methods, the mixing chamber 12 may not necessarily be flexible. The flexible mixing chamber 12 may preferably be transparent or translucent.

[0183] The expansion chamber 14 is preferably cylindrical or substantially cylindrical and may be considered to be a tube. However, other shapes may be considered. For example, the expansion tube may have a cross-sectional shape of that of a flattened circle. In other words, the expansion tube may have an elliptical cross-section. Any other shape may be considered, for example rectangular or triangular. This may similarly apply to the mixing chamber 12, partitioning element 16 and discharge element 18. The expansion chamber 14 preferably has a mixing-chamber proximal opening 34 and a discharge-element proximal opening 36. Here each opening is identical, although it will be appreciated that this may not necessarily be the case. The expansion chamber 14 is also formed from a flexible material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, although it will be appreciated that this may not be necessary. The expansion chamber 14 may preferably be transparent or translucent.

[0184] The mixing-chamber proximal opening 34 of the expansion chamber 14 is fluidly communicable with the access opening 20 of the flexible mixing chamber 12 via the partitioning element 16. The partitioning element 16 preferably sealingly connects the expansion chamber 14 with the flexible mixing chamber 12. In other words, the partitioning element 16 connects and seals the expansion chamber 14 and the mixing chamber 12 together to prevent leakage of foam.

[0185] To achieve the sealing connection, the partitioning element 16 has mixing-chamber sealing surface 38 and an expansion-chamber sealing surface 40. Preferably each sealing surface 38, 40 is annular or substantially annular. Diameters of the mixing-chamber sealing surface 38 and an expansion-chamber sealing surface 40 are similar or identical to the diameters of the access opening 20 and the mixing-chamber proximal opening 34 of the expansion chamber 14 respectively. This is such that the sealing surfaces 38, 40 form an interference fit with the relevant opening and/or end portion of the expansion chamber 14 or mixing chamber 12. This prevents or limits leakage of foam or other components from either chamber. The sealing surfaces 38, 40 are receivable within the respective chamber to abut the inside wall thereof. The access opening 20 and the mixing-chamber proximal opening 34 preferably have similar or identical diameters and as such it will be appreciated that either sealing surface could feasibly be used for either opening. However, this may not be the case and the diameters of the access opening 20 and the opening of the expansion chamber 14 may be different.

[0186] The partitioning element 16 preferably comprises an exterior stop 42, the mixing chamber 12 and the expansion chamber 14 being connectable to the partitioning element 16 either side of the stop 42. The stop 42 is here a ridge which extends annularly around a perimeter of the partitioning element 16 and separates the two sealing surfaces 38, 40 from each other.

[0187] Referring now to FIG. 4, the partitioning element 16 further comprises at least one hole 44 or through-bore for fluidly communicating the expansion chamber 14 with the access opening 20. Preferably, there are two separate holes 44, the holes 44 separated by at least one, and here two, mixing members 46. The mixing members 46 may be considered to be arms. Additionally, the mixing members 46 may prevent or limit the movement of the foam-generation elements in their initial form from the mixing chamber 12 to the expansion chamber 14. The holes 44 are preferably curved and/or the openings of the holes 44 are elongate such that the holes 44 may be considered to be slots.

[0188] The partitioning element 16 may additionally include a protrusion 48 which may extend axially into the mixing chamber 12. One protrusion 48 is shown, although it will be anticipated that multiple protrusions 48 may be considered. Additionally, the protrusion 48 is shown to be central on the partitioning element 16, although it will be appreciated that it may be off-centre. The protrusion is preferably tapered or pointed. In some instances a side wall of the mixing chamber could also include a protrusion.

[0189] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2 a passageway 50, at least in part defined by the holes 44, through the partitioning element 16 widens from the mixing-chamber sealing surface 38 to the expansion-chamber sealing surface 40. This widening of the passageway 50 is preferably abrupt, for example being formed by a step 52.

[0190] The discharge element 18 is at or adjacent to one end of the expansion chamber 14 and has an outlet opening 54 for dispensing or discharging foam therefrom. The discharge element 18 here closes the discharge-element proximal opening 36 at said end of the expansion chamber 14. As such, the discharge element 18 includes a sealing surface 56 which connects with and seals the expansion chamber 14 in the same or a similar way as the sealing surfaces of the partitioning element 16. The sealing surface 56 of the discharge element 18 is therefore annular, has a diameter which is similar or identical to that of the proximal opening of the expansion chamber 14 and is receivable therein. The discharge element 18 further includes a stop 58 to prevent over-insertion of the discharge element 18 into the expansion chamber 14.

[0191] An interior surface 60 of the discharge element 18 is concave or substantially concave which may assist with redirecting foam. An exterior surface 62 of the discharge element 18 is convex.

[0192] The outlet opening 54 preferably protrudes and/or is separated from the exterior surface of a body of the discharge element 18. The outlet opening 54 is off-centre relative to the remainder of the discharge element 18, being at or adjacent to an in use lower portion of the discharge element 18.

[0193] The discharge element 18 further includes a discharge conduit 64 and an inlet opening 66, the discharge conduit 64 interconnects the inlet opening 66 and the outlet opening 54 so that they are in fluid communication. The discharge conduit 64 has a longitudinal extent which locates the inlet opening 66 at a position closer to the partitioning element 16 than to the outlet opening 54. Additionally, the inlet opening 66 is located off-centre relative to the remainder of the discharge element 18 and/or the expansion chamber 14. In use, the inlet opening 66 is preferably at or adjacent to a lower interior surface of the expansion chamber 14.

[0194] The flexible mixing chamber 12 includes first and second foam-generation elements 26, 28. These are positioned inside the mixing chamber 12 in the corresponding receiving portions 30, 32. With the foam-generation elements 26, 28 received therein, the partitioning element 16 is connected to the mixing chamber 12, the expansion chamber 14 is connected to the partitioning element 16 and the discharge element 18 is connected to the expansion chamber 14. These parts may be adhered together to prevent disassembly or separation. Additionally, it will be appreciated that two or more of the parts may be unitarily formed together.

[0195] When the substances which comprise the first and second foam-generation elements 26, 28 are reacted or interacted together they produce a stable foam. This is preferably achieved by effervescence which is stabilised and/or thickened into a foam.

[0196] For example, the first foam-generation element 26 comprises a carbonate, for example sodium bicarbonate, and an acid, for example citric acid. Although sodium bicarbonate and citric acid are preferred, it will be appreciated that any other ingestible or food safe carbonate, for example calcium carbonate, or acid, for example tartaric acid, may be considered. The carbonate and the acid are here in solid form, for example being powdered and compressed into the first foam-generating element. The first foam-generating element may therefore be considered to be a tablet or pill, although it will be appreciated that it may be uncompressed and simply be a powder. In the solid form, the carbonate and acid do not react. The first foam-generation element 26 further comprises a stabiliser and/or thickener. Here stabilisers and/or thickeners such as lecithin and xanthan gum are used; however, any thickening or stabilising agent may be considered.

[0197] The cross-sections of each of the first and second foam-generation elements 26, 28 are preferably circular so as to correspond to the cross-section of the flexible mixing chamber.

[0198] Referring in particular to FIG. 6, the second foam-generation element 28 preferably comprises a container 68 of liquid. For example, here the second container 68 comprises a container 68 of water, although other liquids may be considered. The water may include a colourant which may assist with visual identification thereof. The container 68 is hollow, sealed and preferably has curvate ends, for example here a longitudinal cross-section of the container 68 has a stadium shape. However, other shapes may be considered, such as a ball shape. In fact, a container 68 as such may not be used and the liquid and the first foam-generation element 26 may be separated or segregated by a planar seal.

[0199] The container 68 is preferably flexible, and may be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer although other flexible materials may be considered as before. In the instance of a flexible container, the container 68 preferably includes a hole 70 therein, the hole 70 allowing for the liquid to be ejected therefrom when the container 68 is squeezed. The hole 70 is preferably small, such that when pressure is not applied the surface tension of the liquid maintains the liquid in the container 68. For example, the diameter of the hole 70 may be between 0 mm and 1 mm, and may more preferably be substantially 0.5 mm, for example being 0.45 mm. The flexible container 68 with a hole 70 therein is preferably referred to as a squeeze ball. The hole 70 is ideally in an end of the container and is oriented so as to face the first foam-generation element 26.

[0200] However, the container 68 may not be flexible and may be rigid. In the instance of a rigid or inflexible container 68, at least part of the container 68 is preferably frangible via manual pressure applied thereto and may be burstable or crushable. Breaking of at least part of the container 68 may release fluid therefrom. In the instance that the container 68 is rigid, the hole 70 therein may still be present, although it will be appreciated that this may not be necessary.

[0201] Although the liquid preferably comprises, consists or consists essentially of water, it will be appreciated that the liquid may instead be an acidic solution or a carbonate solution, and the first foam-generation element 26 may lack the acid or the carbonate.

[0202] The first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 may include additional components which a user may wish to consume or inhale. In particular, the first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 could include flavourings to improve a user-experience. Further additional components are discussed below.

[0203] For example, the first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 may include pharmaceuticals, medicines and/or dietary supplements. This may include vitamins, exercise supplements such as pre-workout compositions, branched-chain amino acids, creatine, other supplements usually taken during a workout for endurance, over-the-counter style medicines such as cough or pain remedies and/or erectile dysfunction medicine such as sildenafil. Compounds which are taken in small doses to be ingested as and when needed are of particular relevance.

[0204] The first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 may include a food or beverage substance, or a compound thereof. This may include flavourings or components of soft drinks, for example electrolyte type sports drinks or iced tea, both of which can conventionally be found in powdered form. Alcoholic drinks may be considered, and in this case alcohol could be used as the liquid in the container 68. Flavourings or components of confectionary or desserts may also be considered, which may allow a user to experience a confectionary or dessert without consuming the number of calories typically associated therewith. The first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 may include caffeine, for example a total caffeine content of the first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 being substantially equivalent to a conventional espresso shot.

[0205] The first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 may include nicotine and therefore may provide an alternative to smoking. The first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 may also include other components of tobacco or tobacco itself.

[0206] The first and/or second foam-generation elements 26, 28 could include cannabis or components of cannabis, for example including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and/or cannabidiol (CBD) to provide psychoactive and/or medicinal effects as desired. Although cannabis is described in this specification, in view of the different legal and moral statuses of cannabis worldwide, it will be appreciated that reference to cannabis and/or components thereof may be deleted from the specification if necessary.

[0207] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the cartridge 10 is received in a first embodiment carrier 72 or holder to form the first embodiment of an inhalation device 74. The carrier 72 comprises a carrier body 76, a cartridge receiving portion 78 for receiving the cartridge 10 at or in the carrier body 76, a carrier foam inlet 80, a carrier outlet 82 and a passageway 84 or conduit between the carrier foam inlet 80 and the carrier outlet 82 through the carrier body 76.

[0208] The cartridge receiving portion 78 is here a hole 44 or recess in the carrier body 76 and is sized to captively hold the cartridge 10. A rear part 86 of the carrier body 76 is removably attachable to the remainder of the carrier body 76 so as to allow insertion of the cartridge 10.

[0209] The outlet opening 54 of the cartridge 10 is fluidly communicable with the carrier foam inlet 80 of the carrier 72, and may be insertable therein. The carrier foam inlet 80 includes a seal 88 for sealing the outlet opening 54 of the cartridge 10 thereto. The seal 88 is preferably an O-ring, and may be elastomeric.

[0210] At or adjacent to the carrier foam inlet 80 is a carrier air inlet 90. The air inlet 90 allows for the addition of air to or the entrainment of air with the foam. The air inlet 90 is preferably a channel or conduit through the carrier body 76 to the exterior of the device. Alternatively, the air inlet 90 might feasibly be or communicable with a void in the carrier body 76.

[0211] A venturi tube 92 is preferably fluidly communicable with the carrier foam inlet 80 and is preferably also fluidly communicable with the carrier air inlet 90. The venturi tube 92 has a rear opening which is communicable with both inlets 80, 92. A passageway through the tube 92 may taper to increase a speed of flow of fluid therethrough, although it will be appreciated that this may not be strictly necessary. A head portion of the venturi tube 92 has a tapered and preferably frusto-conical shape. The venturi tube 92 may help to mix the foam and the air together.

[0212] The carrier 72 further includes a one-way valve 96 between the carrier foam inlet 80 and a carrier outlet 82. The one-way valve 96 is arranged to prevent a user from exhaling into the cartridge 10 or device and disrupting a foam distribution therein. The one-way valve 96 is preferably a duck-bill valve 96. The duck-bill valve 96 comprises a flexible material and is conical or substantially conical in shape, having an opening 98 at a base. The valve 96 includes a cut 100 part of the way along a body of the valve 96 from the tip or forward part of valve 96. The cut 100 allows for fluid to flow from the base and out of the tip. This is since the portions of the body demarcated by the cut 100 separate from each other to create a forward opening in the valve 96 when under outward-pressure from the interior of the of the body of the valve. When a tip portion 104 is under inward pressure from the exterior of the body of the valve, the portions of the body demarcated by the cut 100 remain in contact to prevent fluid flow therethrough.

[0213] The tapered end of the venturi tube 92 is preferably received through the opening 98 in the base of the one-way valve 96.

[0214] A front part 106 of the carrier body 76 is preferably removable from the remainder of the body 76 and/or a central part 108 of the carrier body 76, for example to assist with cleaning. The front part 106 could include the one-way valve 96 and/or the venturi tube 92, although this is not the case as shown. The front part 106 and/or the central part 108 of the carrier body 76 may include magnetic elements to allow for convenient detachable attachment therebetween. The carrier 72 may also include a sealing element between the front part 106 and the central part 108.

[0215] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10 in particular, the inhalation device 74 may also include an indication or signalling means or element 110 for indicating or signalling when a user is inhaling from the inhalation device 74. The indication element 110 may include a pressure or flow sensor 112 for detecting when negative pressure is applied thereto. As shown in FIG. 8, a conduit 114, sub conduit or channel extends from the passageway 84 between the carrier foam inlet 80 and the carrier outlet 82 to the flow sensor 112. The flow sensor 112 is preferably positioned in or at the rear part 86 of the carrier 72. However, in some instances the pressure sensor 112 may be directly at or in the passageway.

[0216] The indication element 110 further includes a light-emitting device 116, such as a light emitting diode, which is configured to light when a negative pressure is sensed by the pressure sensor 112. The light-emitting device 116 is preferably positioned within the carrier body 76 and at or adjacent to the cartridge 10. For example, being at or adjacent to a central region of the cartridge receiving portion 78 of the carrier 72. To accommodate the light-emitting device 116 in this position, the rear carrier part 86 may include a projecting portion 118 which projects from a body portion of the rear carrier part 86 and supports the light-emitting device 116 and wiring or an electrical track. The central part 108 of the carrier 72 may include a hole for receiving the projecting portion 118.

[0217] The light-emitting device 116 is electrically, electronically or communicatively connected with the pressure sensor 112. The indication element 110 may include a controller configured to determine when the flow sensor 112 measures a negative pressure and then instruct the light-emitting device 116 to illuminate.

[0218] The indication element 110 preferably includes a battery to power the light-emitting device 116, pressure sensor 112, and controller if present. The battery is preferably a rechargeable battery and the carrier 72 includes an electrical terminal 120 for recharging the battery.

[0219] It will be appreciated that the indication element 110 may not be essential for the device to dispense foam and so may not be included. As such, for the purpose of dispensing foam, the device is devoid of electrical components and/or is non-electrically-energisable.

[0220] Referring in particular to FIG. 10, the rear carrier part 86 preferably includes part of the cartridge receiving portion 78. The rear carrier part 86 may include at least one magnetic element 122 for releasably coupling with magnetic elements on the central part 108 of the carrier body 76. This may allow for the rear part 86 to be conveniently detachably attachable to the central part 108.

[0221] In use, the cartridge receiving portion 78 is opened by removing the rear carrier part 86. The cartridge 10 is positioned in the cartridge receiving portion 78 and the cartridge receiving portion 78 is closed by reattaching the rear carrier part 86. When in the cartridge receiving portion 78, the outlet opening 54 of the discharge element 18 is inserted or connected with the carrier foam inlet 80 of the carrier 72.

[0222] A user may then apply pressure to the flexible mixing chamber 12 over the second foam-generation element 28. The flexible mixing chamber 12 thus deforms and causes pressure to be applied to the second foam generation element 28 which causes liquid to be ejected or dispensed from the container 68 via the hole 44. The protrusion 48 of the partitioning element 16 may assist with ejecting liquid from the container 68, since it may limit the container 68 from deforming in a direction towards the partitioning element 16. A point pressure applied by the protrusion 48 may cause additional pressure on the container 68 to encourage dispensation of the liquid.

[0223] The liquid causes the components or chemicals in the first foam-generation element 26 to dissolve. The carbonate and the acid are thus able to react to produce carbon dioxide and thereby effervesce. This effervescence, which would otherwise be short-lived, is stabilised into a stable foam by the stabiliser. The foam is thickened by the thickener.

[0224] Although a stabiliser for stabilising carbon dioxide bubbles is preferred for forming a stable foam, it will be appreciated that other methods may be utilised for forming a stable foam. For example, nitrogen gas may be utilised to generate a small bubble size which may be more stable than a conventional carbon dioxide bubble. Although a chemical reaction is described as producing the effervescence and foam, it will be appreciated that other methods of effervescence or foam generation may be considered. For example, a pressurised container 68 of gas may be released, or a liquid may be agitated to produce a foam.

[0225] As the foam is generated it may move out of the mixing chamber 12 and into the expansion chamber 14 where expansion of the foam is accommodated. The mixing arms of the partitioning element 16 mix the foam as it passes the partitioning element 16. This mixing is accomplished by the mixing arms generating a vortex in the foam as the foam passes through the apertures defined by the mixing arms. The mixing assists with dissolving the first foam-generation element 26 and therefore can prevent or limit powder from being inhaled.

[0226] The user may then inhale from or at the carrier outlet 82. The negative pressure or suction applied by the inhalation causes the duck-bill valve 96 to open and foam is drawn from the expansion chamber 14, along the discharge conduit 64 and into the carrier foam inlet 80. The foam is mixed with air which is drawn through the carrier air inlet 90. The foam and air mix passes through the venturi tube 92, through the open duck-bill valve 96 and into the user's mouth via the carrier outlet 82.

[0227] The user only inhales part of the foam with a single inhalation. Since the foam is stable, the foam may be inhaled multiple times over a prolonged duration. For example, the foam is stable or present for between 15 and 30 minutes and allows fora plurality of inhalations of foam, for example substantially 50 inhalations.

[0228] When the user inhales from the carrier outlet 82, this causes a negative pressure to act on the pressure sensor 112 which triggers the illumination of the light-emitting device 116. This provides an indication to the user and/or others that the device is being used.

[0229] Once the foam has been utilised or dispensed, the user may remove the cartridge 10 by detaching the rear carrier part 86. A new cartridge 10 may then be inserted into the cartridge receiving portion 78 as required.

[0230] Referring now to FIGS. 11 to 13, there is shown a second embodiment of a carrier 272 of a stable foam inhalation device. A cartridge, such as that previously described, is receivable in the carrier 272 to form the inhalation device. Similar or identical reference numerals are used as for the first embodiment, with 200 added. The second embodiment of the carrier 272 is preferably similar to the first embodiment 72 and has at least some similar or identical features.

[0231] The carrier body 276 of the second embodiment of the carrier 272 includes a moveable part 324 or portion at or adjacent to the cartridge receiving portion 278, and at or adjacent to the carrier foam inlet 280. An edge of the moveable part 324 may define part of the receiving portion 278. The moveable part 324 is preferably moveable so as to be received further towards the carrier outlet 282, and therefore away from a centre of the receiving portion 278. This would enlarge or elongate the receiving portion 278. The carrier body 276 may include grooves and/or a recess to accommodate the movement of the moveable part 324 towards the carrier outlet 282. However, it will be appreciated that the moveable part may be at another location at or adjacent to the receiving portion, for example being adjacent to a rear end of the carrier body. In this case, the moveable part would be moveable towards the rear end, and so away from the centre of the receiving portion.

[0232] The moveable part 324 is preferably biased towards the receiving portion 278 via a biasing means. This may be achieved via the use of a spring. For example, a coil spring may be mounted between the moveable part 324 and a remainder of the carrier body 276 which forces the moveable part 324 towards the receiving portion 278. The carrier body 276 may include a stop for the moveable part 324 to maintain the position of the moveable part 324 when the cartridge is not received in the receiving portion 278.

[0233] The moveable part 324 may include an opening 326 therein to correspond and connect with the cartridge outlet. The opening 326 in the moveable part 324 may in fact define the carrier foam inlet 280. Alternatively, the cartridge outlet may be received under the moveable part with the carrier foam inlet positioned similarly under or below the moveable part.

[0234] The moveable part 324 preferably includes a concave surface 328 which corresponds to a shape of the expansion chamber of the cartridge.

[0235] The use of a moveable part 324 may have the result that a removable rear part 286, as described for the first embodiment, is not necessary, since the capsule can be inserted without removing part of the carrier body 276. However, it will be appreciated that a removable rear part may still be used if so required to enhance convenience of use.

[0236] The carrier body 276 preferably includes side walls 330 at or adjacent to the receiving portion 278. At least one of the side walls 330, and preferably both side walls 330, have an access opening 332 therein. The access openings 332 are elongate and are aligned with a longitudinal direction of the carrier body 276. The access openings 332 extend towards the movable part 324. This may allow for the cartridge, when received in the receiving portion 278, to be moved by the user's fingers towards the movable part 324, which permits release of the cartridge.

[0237] The access openings 332 are tapered, having a larger portion of the opening proximal to a rear part 286 or portion of the carrier body 276. The larger portion of the opening 332 being proximal to the rear part 286 allows for manual pressure to be more easily applied to the foam-generation elements so as to activate them and/or allows greater leverage to be applied to the cartridge from beneath to assist with removal.

[0238] It will be appreciated that the carrier body 276 may define a space, void or gap 334 open to the access openings 332 beneath the cartridge when received in the receiving portion 278. Such a space or gap 334 may be understood with respect to FIG. 13 which shows a curved portion 336 or seat where the second end of the mixing chamber may be received. It will be appreciated that the space or gap 334 may be defined below a line which extends from the seat or curved portion 336 to the carrier foam inlet 280. The gap or space 334 may assist with removal of the cartridge, for example allowing leverage to be applied underneath the cartridge. The second embodiment of the carrier 272 may be used in a similar or identical way as the first embodiment of the carrier 72 with the exception of insertion and removal of the cartridge, and the location of the application of manual pressure which is applied to the foam generation elements. The moveable part 324 is moved towards the carrier outlet 282, in the direction of block arrow A, to enlarge the receiving portion 278. The moveable part 324 may be moved via being pushed with the cartridge, for example. The cartridge is then positioned in the receiving portion 278 and the moveable part 324, under influence from the biasing means, moves towards its original position which may hold the cartridge in place.

[0239] The foam generation elements may be activated via applying manual pressure to the mixing chamber via the access openings 332. Foam is then generated and inhaled in the same or similar way as previously described.

[0240] After use, the cartridge can be moved towards the carrier outlet 282, via gripping the cartridge via the access openings 332, to move the moveable part 324 so as to enlarge the receiving portion 278. The cartridge can then be removed from the receiving portion 278, applying leverage to the cartridge via the gap 334 if required.

[0241] Although access openings are described, it will be appreciated that an upper wall or rib which defines the recess may not be included, and the opening may instead be a cut-away portion.

[0242] Although the second embodiment describes access openings and the moveable part, it will be appreciated that either or both features may be omitted.

[0243] Referring now to FIGS. 14 to 17, there is shown a third embodiment of a stable-foam inhalation device 474. Similar or identical reference numerals are used as for the first or second embodiments, with 400 or 200 added respectively.

[0244] The third embodiment 474 has similar features to the first and second embodiments 74 and the description of those similar features of the first and second embodiments may be considered to be relevant for the third embodiment.

[0245] The third embodiment of the stable-foam inhalation device 474 comprises a carrier 472 and a cartridge 410, the cartridge 410 receivable by the carrier 474. The carrier 410 includes a cartridge-receiving portion 478 for receiving the cartridge 410, and said cartridge-receiving portion 478 may be considered to be a foam-generating-component receiving portion of the carrier 472. The carrier 472 further includes an outlet 482 for dispensing stable foam from the device 474 to be consumed or inhaled by a user.

[0246] The cartridge 410 is preferably non-electrical in that it comprises no electrical components to achieve its main function of dispensing a stable foam or stable-foam-generating components. However, the cartridge 410 may include electrical components for auxiliary functions, such as lighting or similar.

[0247] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the cartridge 410 comprises foam-generation elements 426, 428 or components. Here there are two foam-generation elements 426, 428 or components which when combined interact to form a stable foam. The first foam-generation element 426 comprises a powder or tablet of an acid and a carbonate as previously described. The second foam-generation element 428 comprises a liquid such as water or another solvent as previously described. However, it will be appreciated that the foam-generation elements may differ as described for previous embodiments.

[0248] The foam-generation elements 426, 428 are received in separate chambers 412, 468 or containers of the cartridge 410 with an openable barrier therebetween to prevent or limit the foam-generation elements 426, 428 from mixing or interacting until desired. The powder 426 is received in a first chamber 412, and the liquid is received in a second chamber 468. The first and second chambers 412, 468 may be considered to be a foam-generating-component receiving portion of the cartridge 410.

[0249] The second chamber 468 comprises a tube with an open end 538 and a closed end 540. At least a portion of a wall of the second chamber 468 comprises a flexible material to allow for manual application of pressure to the liquid received in the chamber 468. The first chamber 412 is preferably configured to seal or close the open end 538 of the second chamber 468. Here the first chamber 412 is receivable at least in part inside the second chamber 468, although it will be appreciated that this might not be the case. The first chamber 412 preferably includes a stop 542, which is here a flange, which has a diameter which matches or is larger than a diameter of the opening of the open end 538 of the second chamber 468 to prevent or limit over-insertion of the first chamber 412 in the second chamber 468. The flange 542 may provide bracing or support to the first chamber 412.

[0250] The first chamber 412 includes a perforable wall 544, 546 or seal at each end. The seals are each preferably planar. At a first end, which forms the openable barrier 544 between the foam-generation elements 426, 428, a first perforable wall 544 preferably comprises a foil, such as a metal foil for example aluminium foil. However, other materials, sheets or membranes may be considered for the first perforable wall. The metal foil 544 may provide a suitable seal and therefore provides a long storage life for the cartridge.

[0251] At a second end of the first chamber 412, which may form a barrier between the cartridge 410 and the carrier 472, a second perforable wall 546 may comprise a flexible sheet or membrane, such as a sheet of food-grade silicone. However, other materials, sheets or foils may be considered and it may not be flexible. It will be appreciated that a seal at the second end of the first chamber may not be strictly necessary, in the instance of the first foam-generation component being a tablet for example. However, the second perforable wall 546 may assist with providing a long storage life for the cartridge 410.

[0252] The second perforable wall 546 preferably only forms a portion of the second end of the first chamber 412, which may assist with maintaining a structural integrity of the first chamber and the cartridge since a more rigid material or construction can be used for the remainder of the second end. However, it will be appreciated that the entire second end may be perforable in some configurations. The second perforable wall 546 may be a separate sheet of material to the remainder of the second end, although alternatively the second perforable wall 546 may simply be an area of the second end with a smaller wall thickness to assist with perforation.

[0253] The second perforable wall 546 is preferably elongate, the reasons for which will be better understood hereinbelow.

[0254] Referring now to FIG. 17, the cartridge-receiving portion 478 is preferably at or adjacent to a rear of the carrier 472, and may be an opening or recess of the carrier 472. The recess 478 may be sized to receive at least a majority of the cartridge 410 inserted therein. The cartridge-receiving portion 478 includes a wall 548 to prevent over-insertion of the cartridge 410 into the carrier 472. The cartridge 410 preferably closes the opening of the cartridge-receiving portion 478 to prevent the egress of foam therefrom.

[0255] At or adjacent to the cartridge-receiving portion 478, and here projecting from said wall 548, is at least one, and preferably two, projections or protrusions 448a, 448b. The protrusions 448a, 448b are configured to perforate the first and/or second perforable walls 544, 546 of the cartridge 410 when received in the carrier 472.

[0256] The protrusions 448a, 448b may be pointed to assist with perforation of the perforable walls, however, it will be appreciated that this may not be necessary. Each protrusion 448a, 448b preferably also includes a passageway to assist with permitting fluid to flow through the perforation made in the perforable wall 544, 546 by the protrusion 448a, 448b.

[0257] The two protrusions 448a, 448b are spaced apart from each other. A first protrusion 448a projects from a lower portion of the wall 548 and a second protrusion 448b projects from an upper portion of the wall 548. The spacing of the protrusions 448a, 448b may assist with suitable mixing between the foam-generation elements or components 426, 428.

[0258] The first protrusion 448a has a longer projecting extent than that of the second protrusion 448b. As such, the first protrusion 448a is configured to extend through the first chamber 412, via a lower portion of the elongate second perforable wall 546, and through the first perforable wall 544. The first protrusion 448a defines an open-top channel 550 to prevent the perforation in the first perforable wall 544 being blocked by the first protrusion 448a.

[0259] The second protrusion 448b is configured to extend part way into the first chamber 412. The second protrusion 448b includes a bore 552 to permit foam to flow or expand therethrough. The bore 552 extends through the second perforable wall 546. The second protrusion 448b has a larger diameter than that of the first protrusion 448a, which may be beneficial for permitting the passage of foam therethrough.

[0260] The carrier 472 preferably includes an expansion chamber 414 and a conduit 484 which are preferably between the cartridge-receiving portion 478 and the outlet 482. Together, the expansion chamber 414 and conduit 484 may be considered passageway or fluid flow path between the cartridge-receiving portion 478 and the outlet 482. The expansion chamber 414 is preferably at or adjacent to the receiving portion 478 and the bore 552 of the second protrusion 448b. The bore 552 may have a widening 554 at an end which is at or adjacent to expansion chamber 414 which may encourage foam therein. The expansion chamber 414 is so called since it provides space for the foam to expand into.

[0261] The expansion chamber 414 may be transparent to allow for the foam to be visible during use. However, it will be appreciated that this may not be necessary. The expansion chamber 414 may be flexible to allow for manual manipulation thereof, although, again, it will be appreciated that this may not be necessary.

[0262] The conduit 484 preferably extends from the outlet 482 and into the expansion chamber 414. The conduit 484 preferably has an inlet opening 480 in the expansion chamber 414 for receiving foam. The inlet opening 480 of the conduit 484 is preferably off-centre relative to the expansion chamber 414 being at an in-use bottom or lower portion of the expansion chamber 414. This may allow for more of the foam in the expansion chamber 414 to be consumed, since the foam may sink towards the bottom under gravity. Additionally or alternatively, the inlet opening 480 is proximal to the cartridge-receiving portion 478 as compared to the outlet 482. Again, this may allow for more of the foam in the expansion chamber 414 to be consumed, for example, if the device is used in a declining orientation with the cartridge-receiving portion 478 lower than the outlet 482.

[0263] The conduit 484 preferably also includes a drop, step or turn 556, and as such the conduit 484 is non-linear, however it will be appreciated that this may not be necessary. The conduit 484 may include a one-way valve and/or venturi tube, as described for the preceding embodiments.

[0264] The outlet 482, or mouth-piece, is preferably cross-shaped or substantially cross-shaped, although it will be appreciated that other shapes may be considered. The outlet 482 may additionally or alternatively represent a widening of the conduit 484 which may encourage emission of foam therefrom.

[0265] The carrier may also include a holder 558 which may receive the expansion chamber 414 and define at least part of the conduit 484. The holder may 558, for example, be formed from a more rigid material than the expansion chamber 414. It will be appreciated that the third embodiment of the device 474 may include sensors, seals, lighting and/or sound means as previously described for the previous embodiments.

[0266] In use, the third embodiment of the device 474 may function in a similar or identical way as the preceding embodiments. The cartridge 410 is inserted into the cartridge-receiving portion 478. This action causes the first protrusion 448a to first perforate the second perforable wall 546, extend through the first chamber 412, and then perforate the first perforable wall 544 to open the barrier between the foam-generation elements 426, 428. Similarly, the second protrusion 448b may perforate the second perforable wall 546. The user may then squeeze an exposed end of the flexible second chamber 468 to exert pressure on the liquid to force it through the perforation and the channel 550 defined by the first protrusion 448a and into the first chamber 412. This is indicated by line A in FIG. 17. In the first chamber 412, the foam-generation elements 426, 428 mix and interact to generate a stable foam which expands or flows through the bore 552 of the second protrusion 448b and into the expansion chamber 414, as indicated by arrow B. The expansion chamber 414 becomes filled or partially filled with the stable foam. The stable foam may then drawn by the user's inhalations on the outlet 482 through the conduit 484, out of the outlet 482 and into the users mouth to be inhaled or consumed. The stable foam may be consumed over multiple inhalations and/or over prolonged duration.

[0267] Referring to FIG. 18, there is shown a fourth embodiment of a foam inhalation device 874, foam consumption device, foam-dispensation device, or foam drawing device. The fourth embodiment of the foam inhalation device 874 is similar to the third embodiment of the foam inhalation device 474, and it can be assumed that the fourth embodiment has similar or identical components or features as the third embodiment.

[0268] However, the fourth embodiment of the foam inhalation device 874 further includes a foam-volume-dispensation control element 984, a side air inlet 986 and a control valve.

[0269] The foam-volume dispensation control element 984 is for limiting or slowing a volume of foam dispensed by an outlet 882 of a carrier 872 of the device 874. To achieve this, the foam-volume-dispensation control element 984 comprises a partial barrier 984 which obstructs part of a cross-sectional area of a fluid flow path between a cartridge-receiving portion 878 which receives a cartridge 810 and the outlet 882. The cartridge 810 has the or each foam generating component, and therefore in use foam flows from the cartridge 810. As such, the foam is impeded by the partial barrier 984 as it travels from the cartridge-receiving portion 878 to the user's mouth via the outlet 882. For example, the partial barrier 984 may slow the passage of foam via friction.

[0270] The foam-volume-dispensation control element 984 may be at the outlet 882. In other words, the foam-volume-dispensation control element 984 may be in an aperture which defines the outlet 882. However, it will be appreciated that the control element 984 may be away from the outlet 882, for example in a conduit of the carrier 872.

[0271] Preferably, the partial barrier 984 comprises a porous material. For example, a material having holes of a diameter of less than 2 mm, although it will be appreciated that other diameter holes may be considered. Small holes are preferred to impede the passage of the foam most effectively. However, the holes should preferably have a greater diameter than a size of the bubbles of the foam, for example greater than 0.5 mm, to maintain the texture of the foam. Smaller diameter holes could be considered, which may produce a finer textured foam.

[0272] A suitable material for the partial barrier 984 may be sintered metal. As such, the partial barrier 984 may comprise sintered steel or sintered bronze. However, other materials may be considered, such as plastics.

[0273] The side air inlet 986 is spaced apart from and to a side of the outlet 882. The side air inlet 986 is fluidly communicated with the fluid flow path or conduit in the carrier 872 between the cartridge-receiving portion 878 and the outlet 882 so that when a user inhales on the outlet 882, it draws air into the fluid flow path from the side air inlet 986. The side air inlet 986 is preferably spaced apart from the outlet 882 by a sufficient distance so as not to be obstructed by a user's mouth when inhaling on the outlet 882. For example, the air outlet 882 may be spaced apart by at least 20 mm.

[0274] The control valve is between the cartridge-receiving portion 878 and the outlet 882 for selectively permitting foam to flow therebetween, the valve being opened and/or closed via a user control 990. As such, a user can decide when to permit foam to flow to the outlet 882.

[0275] Preferably, the control valve is biased to a closed condition so that the user control 990 is required to be continuously operated to hold open the valve. This reduces the risk of the control valve being unintentionally left open and causing leaks of foam.

[0276] The valve may be biased via a spring and the user control may be a push button 990. For example, the valve may comprise a blocking element, stopper or bung which is received in the fluid flow path so as to occlude or close the fluid flow path, for example to occlude the conduit. When the push button 990 is pressed, this may force the blocking element out of the fluid flow path so that foam can flow to the outlet 882. In this way, the user would work against and compress the spring. When the push button 990 is released, the spring may be released which would cause the blocking element to be moved back into the fluid flow path so as to obstruct the fluid flow path. To permit easier extended use of the device 874, the valve may have a releasable locking element, such as a locking pin received through a hole, to lock the valve in an open condition.

[0277] There may be a one-way valve in addition to the control valve.

[0278] Referring to FIGS. 19 and 20, the cartridge 810 preferably has at least one finger grip 992 to permit easier removal from the carrier 872. As such, the or each finger grip 992 are at or adjacent to a rear end of the cartridge 810. Here there are finger grips 992 on two sides of the cartridge 810, and preferably there are three finger grips 992 on each side of the cartridge 810. The cartridge 810 preferably has a perforable seal 946 at a front end of end of the cartridge 810.

[0279] Referring to FIGS. 21 to 26, there is shown a fifth embodiment of a foam inhalation device or a foam drawing device comprises a carrier 672, as shown in FIGS. 21 to 23, with a cartridge 610, as shown in FIGS. 24 to 26, received therein. The device is electrically operated and here is powered by a battery 760 and so is battery-operated, although it will be appreciated that other electrical power sources may be considered.

[0280] Foam is generated by agitating a liquid with an agitation means, and the agitation means comprises at least an electric motor 762 and the battery 760. The agitation means may otherwise be referred to as an agitator.

[0281] Referring now in particular to FIGS. 21 to 23, the carrier 672 has a carrier body 676 which preferably houses the motor 762 and the battery 760. The carrier 672 further includes a receiving portion 678 for receiving the cartridge 610 at or in the carrier body 676. Here the receiving portion 678 is a recess or open-ended chamber defined by the body 676 and sized to receive at least part of the cartridge 610 therein. The receiving portion 678 preferably only receives part of the cartridge 610 therein, with an end of the cartridge 610 protruding from the end of the receiving portion 678.

[0282] The carrier 672 further includes a carrier foam inlet 680 for receiving foam from the cartridge 610 when the cartridge 610 is received in the receiving portion 678. The carrier 672 also includes a carrier foam outlet 682, which is here defined by a mouthpiece 764, for dispensing the foam to a user. A carrier foam conduit 684, passageway or flow path connects the carrier foam inlet 680 with the carrier foam outlet 682.

[0283] At least an end portion of the carrier 672 foam conduit adjacent to the carrier foam inlet 680 preferably projects or protrudes into the receiving portion 678 so as to permit the carrier foam conduit 684 to perforate the cartridge 610. However, it will be appreciated that this may not be necessary and the conduit may not project or protrude and may instead abuttingly connect with the cartridge 610.

[0284] The carrier foam conduit 684 may include a chamber 684a proximal to the mouthpiece 764. However, it will be appreciated that this may be omitted.

[0285] A one-way valve may be in the carrier foam conduit 684 for permitting movement of foam from the carrier foam inlet 680 to the carrier foam outlet 682 and preventing or limiting movement of fluid from the carrier foam outlet 682 to the carrier foam inlet 680.

[0286] The carrier further comprises a carrier air inlet 690 and an air-flow conduit 766 which extends from the carrier air inlet 690 and terminates in a carrier air outlet 768 at, in or adjacent to the receiving portion 678. The carrier air inlet 690 is open to the exterior of the carrier 672 in use and is separate to and preferably away from the carrier foam outlet 682. For example, the carrier foam outlet 682 is preferably positioned so as not be covered by a user's mouth in use when a user is drawing at the carrier foam outlet 682. Preferably the carrier air inlet 690 is in a base of the carrier 672. Similar to the carrier foam conduit 684, the air-flow conduit 766 preferably projects or protrudes into the receiving portion 678 so as to permit perforation of the cartridge 610.

[0287] The air-flow conduit 766 and the carrier air outlet 768 are in use below or beneath the carrier foam conduit 684 and the carrier foam inlet 680.

[0288] The agitation means preferably comprises an air moving means which is driven by the electric motor 762 and is for moving air from the carrier air inlet 690 to the carrier air outlet 768. The air moving means may be an air pump 770. For example, the air pump 770 may be a fan or impeller rotatable by the electric motor 762, although other forms of air pump 770 may be considered.

[0289] The device preferably includes a pressure sensor 712, which is here housed in the carrier 672. The pressure sensor 712 is fluidly communicated with the carrier foam outlet 682 so as to detect when negative pressure is applied to the carrier foam outlet 682. Here the pressure sensor 712 is positioned at, adjacent to or in the chamber 684a which is proximal to the mouthpiece 764.

[0290] The device includes a processor, which is here provided on or by a printed circuit board 772, which is again housed in the carrier 672. The battery 760, the motor 762 and the pressure sensor 712 are connected to the printed circuit board 772 so that when the pressure sensor 712 detects negative pressure the processor activates the motor 762 by providing power from the battery 760 which drive the air pump 770.

[0291] The electric motor 762 is preferably a brushless electric motor.

[0292] The battery 760 may be rechargeable, and as such there may be a power terminal to permit recharging. Additionally or alternatively, the battery 760 may be removable from the carrier 672 to permit replacement. The battery 760 may be neither replaceable or rechargeable, and so the carrier 672 may be required to be disposed after discharge of the battery 760.

[0293] Referring now in particular to FIGS. 24 to 26, the cartridge 610 has a cartridge foam outlet 654 and defines a container for containing a liquid for producing the foam via agitation.

[0294] The liquid may comprise at least one foaming agent, surfactant, stabiliser and/or thickener to permit generation of foam via agitation. This may include lectin and/or xanthan gum. The foaming agent, and liquid as a whole, should be food-safe to permit consumption by a person.

[0295] The liquid may include an acid and/or a carbonate, such as citric acid and/or sodium bicarbonate. In the case that an acid and carbonate were included in the cartridge, they may have already produced a foam and/or carbon dioxide and there may be the resulting salt, such as sodium citrate, in the cartridge 610 before use of the device. If the carbon dioxide from such a reaction is still being produced whilst the cartridge 610 is sealed, then this may spontaneously produce some foam upon opening of the cartridge 610 due to a reduction in pressure resulting in release of dissolved carbon dioxide. However, even in this case, the primary foam generation method is via agitation.

[0296] The cartridge 610 is preferably elongate and tubular or substantially tubular. Here the cartridge 610 has a flat end, which includes the cartridge foam outlet 654, and a rounded end opposing the flat end.

[0297] The cartridge 610 may comprise a flexible material to allow manual manipulation thereof, although it will be appreciated that this may not be the case and the cartridge 610 may comprise of a rigid material.

[0298] The cartridge 610 preferably also comprises a cartridge air inlet 774. The cartridge air inlet 774 is preferably at or adjacent to the cartridge foam outlet 654, for example being in the flat end, although it will be appreciated that it may be positioned elsewhere. The cartridge air inlet 774 is preferably in use below the cartridge foam outlet 654.

[0299] The cartridge 610 preferably has an air-injection conduit 776 which extends from the cartridge air inlet 774 into an interior 778 of the cartridge 610 for injecting air into the cartridge 610 via at least one opening 780 in the air-injection conduit 776. Preferably, the air-injection conduit 776 is elongate and has a plurality of openings 780 therein which are spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal extent of the air-injection conduit 776. Preferably, there is no opening in an end of the air-injection conduit 776.

[0300] There may be at least one opening 780 on two opposing sides of the air-injection conduit 776. Preferably, the openings 780 on each side are aligned with each other.

[0301] Each opening 780 may be circular in shape. Preferably, there are at least five openings 780, here there being seven openings 780 on each opposing side of the air-injection conduit 776.

[0302] Alternatively, each opening 780 may have the shape of a segment of a circle and/or may be semi-circular. In this case, each side of the air-injection conduit 776 may have multiple pairs of openings 780, each opening 780 of a pair is spaced apart from each other in a lateral direction of the conduit. Preferably, there are seven pairs of openings 780 at each side of the conduit.

[0303] The cartridge air inlet 774 and the cartridge foam outlet 654 are each closed by a perforable or otherwise openable seal. For example, here each of the cartridge air inlet 774 and the cartridge foam outlet 654 has a perforable seal which is preferably also flexible, such as a silicone seal.

[0304] The carrier foam conduit 684 and the air-flow conduit 766 of the carrier 672 are arranged to perforate the cartridge foam outlet 654 and the cartridge air inlet 774 respectively, when the cartridge 610 is received in the receiving portion 678 of the carrier 672. This is achieved by the projection of the conduits into the receiving portion 678, as previously described. Additionally, a width or diameter of each conduit is sized so as to be received within the respective outlet and inlet. A border portion of the flexible seals may form a seal with the respective conduits so that leaks of liquid or foam is reduced. Additionally or alternatively, the conduits may be sized so as to sealingly engage with a perimeter of the outlet or inlet.

[0305] The cartridge 610 and the carrier 672 are configured so that the cartridge air inlet 774 is connected with the carrier air outlet 768, and the cartridge foam outlet 654 is connected with the carrier foam inlet 680, when the cartridge 610 is received in the receiving portion 678. Although not shown, to reduce the risk of misconnection between the carrier air outlet 768 and the cartridge foam outlet 654 and the cartridge air inlet 774 and the carrier foam inlet 680, the cartridge 610 and/or receiving portion 678 may be shaped to only permit receipt of the cartridge 610 in a correct orientation. For example, the cartridge 610 may have a protrusion and the carrier 672 may have a recess or groove so that the cartridge 610 and carrier 672 can only be correctly relatively positioned. Alternatively, the inlets and outlets may be non-symmetrically positioned so as to permit connection in only one orientation.

[0306] The device may be arranged to only operate the agitation means when a cartridge 610 is received in the carrier 672. To achieve this, the carrier 672 is preferably configured to detect when a cartridge 610 is received in the receiving portion 678. The carrier 672 may have a switch which is operated by the cartridge 610 being received in the receiving portion 678. For example, the carrier 672 may have exposed electrical contacts or terminals, with the cartridge 610 having an electrically conducting portion which is positioned on the cartridge 610 so that, when the cartridge 610 is received in the receiving portion 678, the electrical contacts are connected by the electrically conducting portion. Alternatively, the carrier 672 may have a manual or pressure sensitive switch or button which is depressed when the cartridge 610 is received in the receiving portion 678. Either switch may be connected with the processor on the printed circuit board 772, so that when the cartridge 610 is received in the carrier 672 the processor is aware that the cartridge 610 is present. The processor may therefore only operate the agitation means when the cartridge 610 is detected and when suction is detected on the mouthpiece 764 by the pressure or airflow-sensor. This is to prevent unintentional operation of the motor and thus prevent draining of the battery 760.

[0307] In use, when a user wishes to consume foam, the cartridge 610, pre-loaded with the liquid, is inserted into the receiving portion 678. The carrier foam conduit 684 and the air-flow conduit 766 perforates or penetrates the cartridge foam outlet 654 and the cartridge air inlet 774 respectively. The cartridge 610 operates the switch so that the processor detects the presence of the cartridge 610.

[0308] The user then draws, inhales or sucks on the mouthpiece 764 of the carrier 672. This creates low pressure in the carrier foam conduit 684 which is detected by the pressure sensor 712. Since the processor is aware of the presence of the cartridge 610, the processor activates the motor which draws power from the battery 760 to operate the air pump 770. The air pump 770 draws air from the carrier air inlet 690, along the air-flow conduit 766 and into the cartridge 610 via the carrier air outlet 768. Air is injected into the liquid via the openings 780 in the air-injection conduit 776. As such, the liquid is effectively bubbled with air. The liquid is transformed into foam via this agitation.

[0309] The suction applied by the user causes the foam to be drawn out of the cartridge 610 via the cartridge foam outlet 654 and along the carrier foam conduit 684. The user thereby draws foam into their mouth via the carrier foam outlet 682. The user may stop inhaling once sufficient foam has been drawn, which may deactivate the agitation means.

[0310] Draws on the mouthpiece 764 to generate foam via agitation may be repeated to permit the user to consume more foam until the liquid in the cartridge 610 has been consumed.

[0311] It is therefore possible to provide a device which produces a stable foam, as opposed to only a short-lived effervescence and/or a rapidly propelled inhalant, which allows for a user to consume or inhale a substance contained within the foam over a prolonged duration and with multiple inhalations. This provides a smoking alternative device or cigarette substitute without requiring burning or heating. The device and/or a cartridge of the device may be devoid of electrical energisation means and so this would reduce or eliminate a requirement for electrical charging.

[0312] The words ‘comprises/comprising’ and the words ‘having/including’ when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

[0313] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0314] The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the field without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.