ELECTRONIC DEVICES FOR AEROSOLIZING AND INHALING LIQUID

Abstract

An electronic device includes a hand held base assembly that includes circuitry including memory and firmware executed by a processor or microcontroller of the circuitry; and a cartridge assembly that includes memory that is read by the firmware of the handheld base assembly. The cartridge assembly and the handheld base assembly are configured to removably couple together to define the electronic device for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person. An enclosed air passageway is defined by the cartridge assembly and by the handheld base assembly, which isolates the airflow from the electronics of the device. The enclosed air passageway extends between the opening of the mouthpiece for taking a breath and a diaphragm of the handheld base assembly, movement of the diaphragm changing the air pressure within an enclosed interior space having a pressure sensor for trigging the pressure sensor when a breath is taken.

Claims

1. An electronic device for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person, comprising: (a) a cartridge assembly; and (b) a handheld base assembly; (c) wherein the cartridge assembly and the handheld base assembly are configured to removably couple together; (d) wherein the handheld base assembly comprises circuitry including firmware executed by a processor or microcontroller of the circuitry; and (e) wherein the cartridge assembly comprises memory that is read by the firmware of the handheld base assembly.

2. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the firmware further writes to the memory of the handheld base assembly.

3. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the memory of the handheld base assembly comprises a non-transitory computer-readable memory.

4. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the cartridge assembly comprises, (a) a mouthpiece; (b) a cartridge; and (c) a bladder assembly.

5. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the bladder assembly comprises, (a) a bladder; (b) a wick contained within the bladder; and (c) a mesh assembly; (d) wherein the mesh assembly comprises a mesh material and a piezoelectric material, the mesh material being configured to vibrate when the piezoelectric material is actuated whereby an aerosol is produced when the mesh material contacts a liquid of the bladder such that the aerosol may be inhaled through the mouthpiece.

6. The electronic device of claim 1, wherein the disposable cartridge assembly and handheld base assembly are configured to magnetically couple together.

7. The electronic device of claim 2, wherein the disposable cartridge assembly magnetically mounts onto an end of the handheld base assembly.

8. An electronic device as disclosed herein.

9. An electronic device as disclosed herein, wherein an enclosed air passageway is defined by the cartridge assembly and by the handheld base assembly, which isolates the airflow from the electronics of the device.

10. The electronic device of claim 9, wherein the enclosed air passageway extends between the opening of the mouthpiece for taking a breath and a diaphragm of the handheld base assembly, movement of the diaphragm changing the air pressure within an enclosed interior space having a pressure sensor for trigging the pressure sensor when a breath is taken on the mouthpiece, the pressure sensor in turn causing aerosolization to occur for administering a dose.

11. A method of using an electronic device as disclosed herein.

12. A system comprising an electronic device as disclosed herein including software with one or more GUIs as disclosed herein.

13. An electronic device for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person, comprising: (a) a cartridge assembly; and (b) a handheld base assembly; (c) wherein the cartridge assembly and the handheld base assembly are configured to removably couple together; (d) wherein the handheld base assembly comprises circuitry including firmware executed by a processor or microcontroller of the circuitry; and (e) wherein the cartridge assembly comprises memory that is read by the firmware of the handheld base assembly.

14. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the handheld base assembly comprises a display.

15. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein a representation of doses provided using the electronic device from a particular cartridge assembly is identified through the display.

16. The electronic device of claim 15, wherein the representation comprises a number of doses provided.

17. The electronic device of claim 15, wherein the representation comprises a number of doses remaining in the particular cartridge assembly.

18. The electronic device of claim 15, wherein a representation of a number of puffs in a said does is indicated through the display.

19. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein, when the handheld base assembly and the cartridge assembly are coupled together, firmware in memory of the handheld base assembly and executed by a processor or microcontroller of the circuitry of the handheld base assembly reads from a nonvolatile memory of the cartridge assembly a number of doses that have been dispensed from or that remain in the reservoir of the cartridge assembly.

20. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the handheld base assembly and the cartridge assembly are paired such that the cartridge assembly only works with the handheld base assembly with which it is paired by storing a unique identifier or other authenticating information in the cartridge assembly by which the firmware of the handheld base assembly is configured to authenticate the cartridge assembly.

21. The electronic device of claim 20, wherein said authenticating information is permanently stored in read-only memory of the cartridge assembly.

22. The electronic device of claim 20, wherein said pairing is performed at time of manufacture of the cartridge assembly and handheld base assembly.

23. The electronic device of claim 20, wherein said pairing is performed when a new cartridge assembly is first used with a handheld base assembly.

24. The electronic device of claim 20, wherein said authenticating information is communicated to the handheld base assembly.

25. The electronic device of claim 24, wherein the handheld base assembly comprises a transceiver for wireless communications.

26. The electronic device of claim 25, wherein said authenticating information is communicated to the handheld base assembly wirelessly over the Internet once the cartridge assembly to be used with the handheld base assembly is known.

27. The electronic device of claim 26, wherein said authenticating information is communicated to the handheld base assembly wirelessly over the Internet when a specific cartridge is prescribed using the specific cartridge assembly.

28. The electronic device of claim 26, wherein said authenticating information is communicated to the handheld base assembly wirelessly over the Internet when a prescription is filled using the specific cartridge assembly.

29. The electronic device of claim 20, wherein a battery of the electronic device is rechargeable using a USB port of the electronic device.

30. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the electronic device is configured to initiate a dosing when a button on an exterior of the electronic device is depressed for a predetermined period of time.

31. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the electronic device is configured to turn on when a button on an exterior of the electronic device is depressed for a predetermined period of time, and wherein the electronic device comprises a pressure sensor configured to detect when a breath is drawn from a mouthpiece of the cartridge assembly when the device is turned on and consequently cause aerosolization of a metered dose.

32. The electronic device of claim 31, wherein the pressure sensor is contained within the handheld base assembly.

33. The electronic device of claim 32, wherein the electronic device defines an enclosed interior air passageway extending between an interior space of a mouthpiece of the cartridge assembly to the pressure sensor contained within and mounted to a circuit board of the handheld base assembly.

34. The electronic device of claim 32, wherein the cartridge assembly and handheld base assembly collective define an enclosed interior air passageway extending between an interior space of a mouthpiece of the cartridge assembly to the pressure sensor contained within the handheld base assembly.

35. The electronic device of claim 34, wherein the cartridge assembly comprises a mesh component formed from 316L stainless steel.

36. The electronic device of claim 34, wherein the enclosed, interior air passageway is in fluid communication with the mesh assembly.

37. The electronic device of claim 36, wherein the handheld base assembly comprises a diaphragm arranged proximate the pressure sensor by which a change in pressure is detected by the pressure sensor.

38. The electronic device of claim 37, wherein no electronic components are exposed to the enclosed interior air passageway.

39. The electronic device of claim 38, wherein all components defining the enclosed interior air passageway are made from medical grade materials such that the electronic device is compliant with ISO 18562 and ISO 10993 standards.

40. The electronic device of claim 31, wherein, when the pressure sensor detects a breath, a haptic engine of the handheld base assembly is activated to provide sensory feedback to the user that a breath has been detected and that a dose is being aerosolized.

41. The electronic device of claim 40, wherein the magnitude of the vibrations caused by the haptic engine and length of activation are adjustable by a user through an app.

42. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the cartridge assembly comprises a vibrating mesh nebulizer stack defining a fully sealed airpath that is compliant with medical airpath ISO 18625 and medical device ISO 10993 standards.

43. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the cartridge assembly comprises a compliant, silicone bladder that interfaces with a mesh assembly to provide a liquid tight seal between an interior space of the bladder containing a liquid and a mesh of the mesh assembly for aerosolizing the liquid.

44. The electronic device of claim 43, wherein the cartridge assembly further comprises a pressure ring configured to apply circumferential pressure to a piezo assembly of the mesh assembly, the mesh assembly being sandwiched between the bladder and the pressure ring.

45. The electronic device of claim 44, wherein a mouth of the bladder at a top of the bladder engages and forms a liquid seal with the mesh assembly.

46. The electronic device of claim 45, wherein the bladder comprises a fill port located on a bottom of the bladder for filling the bladder with a liquid.

47. The electronic device of claim 46, wherein the bladder comprises a plug for sealing the fill port after filling of the bladder with a liquid.

48. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the bladder has a capacity of 1.5 ml.

49. The electronic device of claim 13, further comprising a sealing cap removably attached to the cartridge assembly in covering relation to a mouthpiece of the cartridge assembly.

50. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the handheld base assembly comprises a transceiver and is configured to wirelessly communicate with an app on a smartphone, tablet device, or personal computer.

51. The electronic device of claim 50, wherein the app is configured to show a number of doses dispensed from a cartridge assembly coupled to the handheld base assembly.

52. Commercial packaging comprising the electronic device of claim 1, 8, 9, or 13.

53. The commercial packaging of claim 52, wherein the handheld base assembly and the cartridge assembly of the electronic device are separated from one another such that the electronic device requires assembly when removed from the commercial packaging.

54. The commercial packaging of claim 52, wherein the commercial packaging further comprises a charging cord and instructions for use.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0067] One or more preferred embodiments of the invention now will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0068] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of commercial packaging comprising a container 101 containing an electronic device 100 for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, wherein a handheld base assembly 102 and a cartridge assembly 104 of the electronic device 100 are shown as separated, individual components together with a cap 103, USB charging cord 105, and instructions for use (IFU 107, which itself is illustrated in FIG. 47).

[0069] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the preferred electronic device 100 of FIG. 1 and indicates the removable coupling together of the handheld base assembly 102 and the cartridge assembly 104.

[0070] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the electronic device 100 when the handheld base assembly 102 and the cartridge assembly 104 are removably coupled together. As shown in FIG. 3, a number of doses is displayed on a display 106 of the electronic device 100, which indicates how many doses have been metered by the device (or one like it) from a reservoir of the specific cartridge assembly 104.

[0071] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of another electronic device 900 for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, wherein when a handheld base assembly 902 and a cartridge assembly 904 with a sealing cap 905 are removably coupled together.

[0072] FIG. 5 is another view of the electronic device 900 with the sealing cap 905 removed to expose an opening of a mouthpiece of the cartridge assembly 904.

[0073] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view in partial transparency of the electronic device 900.

[0074] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the handheld base assembly 902 of the electronic device 900.

[0075] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the cartridge assembly 904 of the electronic device 900.

[0076] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another electronic device 1000 for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention.

[0077] FIG. 10 is a view illustrating the uncoupling of the handheld base assembly 1002 and the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0078] FIG. 11 is a view illustrating one or more components of the handheld base assembly 1002 and one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein a sealing component 1013 is perhaps best seen.

[0079] FIG. 12 is a view illustrating one or more components of the handheld base assembly 1002 and one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein a protuberance 1011 defined by a wall of the handheld base assembly 1002 is seen, the protuberance defining in part the enclosed air passageway to a diaphragm 1012 of the handheld base assembly 1002 (perhaps best seen in FIG. 13).

[0080] FIG. 13 is a view illustrating one or more components of the handheld base assembly 1002 and one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein the diaphragm 1012 is perhaps best seen.

[0081] FIG. 14 is a view illustrating one or more components of the handheld base assembly 1002 and one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein a pressure sensor 1014 of the handheld base assembly 1002 is perhaps best seen.

[0082] FIG. 15 is a view illustrating one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0083] FIG. 16 is a view illustrating one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0084] FIG. 17 is a view illustrating one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0085] FIG. 18 is a view illustrating one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0086] FIG. 19 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0087] FIG. 20 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0088] FIG. 21 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0089] FIG. 22 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0090] FIG. 23 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein the plug 1007 of the bladder 1008 is shown removed from a fill port of the bladder.

[0091] FIG. 24 illustrates a preferred method of making the cartridge assembly 1004 and, in particular, of filling the bladder of the cartridge assembly 1004 with a liquid to be aerosolized and inhaled, wherein an injection needle 1009 is inserted into the fill port of the bladder 1008 for filling of the bladder with the liquid.

[0092] FIG. 25 illustrates the inserting of the plug 1007 into the fill port of the bladder for sealing of the bladder following the filling of the bladder with the liquid.

[0093] FIG. 26 is a top plan view of the electronic device 1000.

[0094] FIG. 26A is a shaded top plan view of the electronic device 1000.

[0095] FIG. 26B is a shaded top plan view of the electronic device 1000, wherein a mouthpiece 1010 of the cartridge assembly 1004 is shown in transparent view.

[0096] FIG. 27 is the view of the electronic device 1000 of FIG. 26, wherein the mouthpiece 1010 is omitted.

[0097] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the electronic device 1000 of FIG. 27, wherein the mouthpiece 1010 is omitted.

[0098] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the electronic device 1000 of FIG. 27, wherein additional components are omitted and a lower body of the cartridge assembly 1004 is shown in transparent view for purposes of illustrated the diaphragm 1012 of the handheld base assembly 1002.

[0099] FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the mouthpiece 1010 of the cartridge assembly 1004.

[0100] FIG. 31 is a bottom plan view of the mouthpiece 1010 of the cartridge assembly 1004.

[0101] FIG. 32 is a bottom perspective view of the mouthpiece 1010 of the cartridge assembly 1004.

[0102] FIG. 33 discloses software flow for firmware of the electronic device 100,1000, which preferably is stored in memory and executed by a processor or microcontroller of the circuitry of the handheld base assembly 102,1002.

[0103] FIGS. 34-44 illustrates various user interface screens 110,111,112,113,114,115 for apps that are installed and run on smartphones, such as an iPhone or an Android device, and which apps communicate with the electronic devices wirelessly using a communications protocol such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

[0104] FIG. 45 illustrates possible user experiences when interacting with GUIs of the software in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, which GUIs and sequences thereof are intended to drive adherence and compliance with prescribed medication use.

[0105] FIG. 46 illustrates features and capabilities of the software in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, whether performed on the electronic device or on a mobile application on a smartphone, tablet device, or personal computer that is in communication with the electronic device.

[0106] FIG. 47 illustrates an exemplary instructions-for-use document (IFU) that is preferably included with commercial packaging represented in the schematic illustration of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0107] As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (Ordinary Artisan) that the invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being preferred is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. Furthermore, an embodiment of the invention may incorporate only one or a plurality of the aspects of the invention disclosed herein; only one or a plurality of the features disclosed herein; or combination thereof. As such, many embodiments are implicitly disclosed herein and fall within the scope of what is regarded as the invention.

[0108] Accordingly, while the invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the invention and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the invention in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

[0109] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the invention be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.

[0110] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used hereinas understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such termdiffers in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.

[0111] With regard to any method claim including a condition precedent step, such method requires the condition precedent to be met and the step to be performed at least once but not necessarily every time during performance of the claimed method.

[0112] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, comprising is open-ended insofar as that which follows such term is not exclusive. Additionally, a and an each generally denotes at least one but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to a picnic basket having an apple is the same as a picnic basket comprising an apple and a picnic basket including an apple, each of which identically describes a picnic basket having at least one apple as well as a picnic basket having apples; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside an apple. In contrast, reference to a picnic basket having a single apple describes a picnic basket having only one apple; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside an apple. In contrast, a picnic basket consisting of an apple has only a single item contained therein, i.e., one apple; the picnic basket contains no other item.

[0113] When used herein to join a list of items, or denotes at least one of the items but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to a picnic basket having cheese or crackers describes a picnic basket having cheese without crackers, a picnic basket having crackers without cheese, and a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside cheese and crackers.

[0114] When used herein to join a list of items, and denotes all of the items of the list. Thus, reference to a picnic basket having cheese and crackers describes a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers, as well as describes a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese; the picnic basket further may contain one or more other items beside cheese and crackers.

[0115] The phrase at least one followed by a list of items joined by and denotes an item of the list but does not require every item of the list. Thus, at least one of an apple and an orange encompasses the following mutually exclusive scenarios: there is an apple but no orange; there is an orange but no apple; and there is both an apple and an orange. In these scenarios if there is an apple, there may be more than one apple, and if there is an orange, there may be more than one orange. Moreover, the phrase one or more followed by a list of items joined by and is the equivalent of at least one followed by the list of items joined by and.

[0116] Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of the invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.

[0117] In particular, FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of commercial packaging comprising a container 101 containing an electronic device 100 for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, wherein a handheld base assembly 102 and a cartridge assembly 104 of the electronic device 100 are shown as separated, individual components together with a cap 103, USB charging cord 105, and instructions for use or IFU 107. The preferred IFU 107 are illustrated in FIG. 47.

[0118] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the preferred electronic device 100 of FIG. 1 and indicates the removable coupling together of the handheld base assembly 102 and the cartridge assembly 104.

[0119] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the electronic device 100 when the handheld base assembly 102 and the cartridge assembly 104 are removably coupled together.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 3, 178 doses are indicated on a display 106 of the electronic device 100. The number of doses preferably indicates how many doses have been metered by the device from a reservoir of the cartridge assembly 104, or possibly one like it. Alternatively, number of doses represents the number remaining to be provided by the electronic device with the current cartridge assembly coupled thereto.

[0121] Specifically, when the handheld base assembly 102 and the cartridge assembly 104 are coupled together, firmware in memory of the handheld base assembly 102 and executed by a processor or microcontroller of the circuitry of the handheld base assembly 102 reads from a nonvolatile memory of the cartridge assembly 104 a number of doses that have been dispensed from the reservoir of the cartridge assembly 104, whether using the handheld base assembly 102 or using another handheld base assembly of another electronic device of the invention.

[0122] Optionally, the handheld base assembly 102 and the cartridge assembly 104 can be paired such that the cartridge assembly 104 only works with the handheld base assembly 102 by storing a unique identifier or other authenticating information in the cartridge assembly 104 by which the firmware of the handheld base assembly is configured to authenticate the cartridge assembly 102. Such authenticating information preferably is permanently stored in read-only memory of the cartridge assembly 104. Such pairing can be performed at time of manufacture, or when a new cartridge assembly 104 is first used with a handheld base assembly 102. Alternatively, such authenticating information can be communicated to the handheld base assembly wirelessly over the Internet once the cartridge assembly to be used with the handheld base assembly 102 is known, such as when a specific cartridge may be prescribed or a prescription filled using the specific cartridge assembly. In this respect, the circuitry of the handheld base assembly 102 preferably includes a transceiver for wireless communications, including via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other wireless communications protocol.

[0123] The display 106 further preferably shows a battery level of the electronic device 100. As shown in FIG. 3, the battery level is 9 units. The battery preferably is rechargeable using, for example, a USB port as seen at 109. The display may be an OLED or LCD screen.

[0124] The display preferably turns off after a predetermined period of time to avoid draining the battery. The display is turned on by positioning the handheld base assembly 102 to an orientation for reading of the display, by pushing and releasing a button 108, or by some other user input mechanism. The button 108 also preferably initiates a dosing by, for example, a depressing the button 108 for a prolonged period of time (relative to a quick pressing to illuminate the display).

[0125] Alternatively, the button 108 is used to wake the electronic device 108 (including display for a predetermined period of time), and a pressure sensor of the handheld base assembly 102 detects when a breath is drawn from a mouthpiece of the cartridge assembly 104 for causing the aerosolization of a metered dose. In this respect, when the pressure sensor detects a breath, the haptic engine is activated to provide sensory feedback to the user that a breath has been detected and that a dose is being/will be aerosolized. The magnitude of the vibrations caused by the haptic engine and length of activation preferably are settings that can be adjusted by a user through an app. The haptic vibration may also be used to signal the end of a precisely metered dose.

[0126] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of another electronic device 900 for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, wherein when a handheld base assembly 902 and a cartridge assembly 904 with a sealing cap 905 are removably coupled together.

[0127] FIG. 5 is another view of the electronic device 900 with the sealing cap 905 removed to expose an opening of a mouthpiece of the cartridge assembly 904.

[0128] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view in partial transparency of the electronic device 900.

[0129] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the handheld base assembly 902 of the electronic device 900.

[0130] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the cartridge assembly 904 of the electronic device 900. The cartridge assembly 904 comprises a pressure ring 912; a mesh assembly 914; and a bladder 916. The mesh assembly 914 comprises a piezo transducer disc or annulus, perforated mesh centrally located and supported by the piezo, and electrical wires for actuating the piezo and effecting oscillation of the mesh. The bladder 916 comprises a rim 918 configured to receive and effect a seal with the mesh assembly 914. The mesh preferably comprises perforated 316L stainless steel. The mesh assembly is located between the pressure ring 912 and the bladder 916. The bladder 916 includes a fill port 920 and plug 922 for sealing the fill port 922, whereby the bladder 916 may be filled with a liquid from underneath. The bladder 916 preferably has a capacity of 1.5 ml. A wick 924 is located within the bladder 924 that facilitates conveyance of liquid to the mesh. The bladder 916 is contained within a cartridge housing or body 926. A printed circuit board 928 with non-transitory computer-readable medium, e.g., flash memory, and a plate 930 for securement with magnets of the handheld base assembly, also are shown to be contained within the cartridge body 926. A bottom cap 932 covers the bottom of the cartridge body 926. An opening in the bottom cap 923 and a corresponding opening in the plate 930 in register with the opening in the bottom cap 923 facilitate passage therethrough of one or more pins of the handheld base assembly to the printed circuit board 928, by which the cartridge assembly is connected with the handheld base assembly for electronic communication and for providing power to and driving the oscillations of the mesh assembly 914. A mouthpiece 934 attaches to a top of the cartridge body 926 in covering relation to the pressure ring 912 and mesh assembly 914. The mouthpiece 934 defines an interior area located over the pressure ring from which the aerosolized liquid is suctioned, and a mouth opening 936 through which the aerosolized liquid is suctioned into the mouth of a user. The interior area is vented by port 938 for facilitating airflow through the interior area and out the mouth opening 936 when a breath is dawn. The pressure ring preferably is a distinct silicone rubber component that applies even and consistent circumferential pressure to the mesh assembly. It is designed in a manner to not dampen the functionality and oscillation potential of the vibrating mesh. The bladder preferably is made from silicone and is a compliant component that interfaces with the mesh assembly to simultaneously provide a liquid tight seal while also supporting the piezo for optimal vibration characteristics, thus not dampening or muting the perforated mesh from creating an aerosol. The pressure ring along with the bladder work in concert with optimal driving parameters of the firmware to create an orientation agnostic vibrating mesh nebulizer.

[0131] The vibrating mesh nebulizer stack of the electronic device 900 is designed with a fully sealed airpath that is compliant with medical airpath ISO 18625 and medical device ISO 10993 standards, each standard of which is incorporated herein by reference as of Apr. 22, 2022. In particular, the electronic device and, specifically, the cartridge assembly and handheld base assembly, preferably collectively define an enclosed interior air passageway leading from the interior area within the mouthpiece from which the aerosolized liquid is suctioned to an arrangement in the handheld base assembly that includes a pressure sensor by which a breath drawn on the mouthpiece is detected. The cartridge body of the cartridge assembly preferably defines the air passageway leading from the interior space of the mouthpiece to an opening on the bottom of the cartridge body, and the handheld base assembly preferably comprises a sealing component and protuberance. The sealing component preferably engages the area around the opening on the bottom of the cartridge body so as to seal the opening when the cartridge body is coupled to the handheld base assembly. The protuberance preferably defines an air passageway from the opening in the cartridge body to a diaphragm, which closes of the air passageway. Air within the passageway is thereby trapped, and a decrease in pressure within the interior area of the mouthpiece due to the drawing of a breath results in a decrease in pressure in the air passageway of the protuberance at the diaphragm, which in turn causes the diaphragm to move outwardly into or toward the air passageway. The diaphragm is located next to and in fluid communication with a pressure sensor and is configured to trigger the pressure sensor when the diaphragm so moves due to the drop in pressure in the air passageway of the protuberance. Preferably, all components (or portions thereof) defining the enclosed air passageway are made from medical grade materials in compliance with ISO 18562 and ISO 10993.

[0132] The cartridge assembly is designed to be disposable, whereas the handheld base assembly is designed to be reusable. Additionally, the electronic device preferably is Bluetooth enabled, features breath-actuation of a measured dosage, and is orientation-agnostic in operation. The Bluetooth capabilities enable user interaction via a smartphone, table, or personal computer with an app for use with the electronic device. User interfaces of the app preferably facilitate use of the handheld base assembly with multiple different cartridge assemblies, which GUIs are described below.

[0133] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another electronic device 1000 for producing an aerosol for inhalation by a person in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention.

[0134] FIG. 10 is a view illustrating the uncoupling of the handheld base assembly 1002 and the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0135] FIG. 11 is a view illustrating one or more components of the handheld base assembly 1002 and one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein a sealing component 1013 is perhaps best seen. As discussed above, the sealing component 1013 creates an airtight seal with the cartridge body around an opening therein when the cartridge assembly is coupled with the handheld base assembly. The opening is to the airflow passageway leading from the interior area of the mouthpiece; the airflow passageway is perhaps best shown in FIG. 13, wherein a channel 1017 in the cartridge body defines this air passageway. FIG. 11 also perhaps best shows pins 1019 by which the handheld base assembly is connected with the cartridge assembly for communication therewith and for providing power to and driving the oscillations of the piezo. The corresponding contacts 1021 for these pins are perhaps best shown in FIG. 25.

[0136] FIG. 12 is a view illustrating one or more components of the handheld base assembly 1002 and one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein a protuberance 1011 defined by a wall of the handheld base assembly 1002 is seen, the protuberance defining in part the enclosed air passageway to a diaphragm 1012 of the handheld base assembly 1002 (perhaps best seen in FIG. 13).

[0137] FIG. 13 is a view illustrating one or more components of the handheld base assembly 1002 and one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein the diaphragm 1012 is perhaps best seen.

[0138] FIG. 14 is a view illustrating one or more components of the handheld base assembly 1002 and one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein a pressure sensor 1014 of the handheld base assembly 1002 is perhaps best seen.

[0139] FIG. 15 is a view illustrating one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0140] FIG. 16 is a view illustrating one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0141] FIG. 17 is a view illustrating one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0142] FIG. 18 is a view illustrating one or more components of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0143] FIG. 19 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0144] FIG. 20 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0145] FIG. 21 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0146] FIG. 22 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000.

[0147] FIG. 23 is a view illustrating the bladder 1008 of the cartridge assembly 1004 of the electronic device 1000, wherein the plug 1007 of the bladder 1008 is shown removed from a fill port of the bladder.

[0148] FIG. 24 illustrates a preferred method of making the cartridge assembly 1004 and, in particular, of filling the bladder of the cartridge assembly 1004 with a liquid to be aerosolized and inhaled, wherein an injection needle 1009 is inserted into the fill port of the bladder 1008 for filling of the bladder with the liquid.

[0149] FIG. 25 illustrates the inserting of the plug 1007 into the fill port of the bladder for sealing of the bladder following the filling of the bladder with the liquid.

[0150] FIG. 26 is a top plan view of the electronic device 1000.

[0151] FIG. 26A is a shaded top plan view of the electronic device 1000.

[0152] FIG. 26B is a shaded top plan view of the electronic device 1000, wherein a mouthpiece 1010 of the cartridge assembly 1004 is shown in transparent view.

[0153] FIG. 27 is the view of the electronic device 1000 of FIG. 26, wherein the mouthpiece 1010 is omitted.

[0154] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the electronic device 1000 of FIG. 27, wherein the mouthpiece 1010 is omitted.

[0155] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the electronic device 1000 of FIG. 27, wherein additional components are omitted and a lower body of the cartridge assembly 1004 is shown in transparent view for purposes of illustrated the diaphragm 1012 of the handheld base assembly 1002.

[0156] FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the mouthpiece 1010 of the cartridge assembly 1004. FIG. 30 shows mouthpiece opening 1036, the mesh 1027, and the piezo 1025. FIG. 30 also shows the vent or port 1038 defined in a side of the mouthpiece 1010 that opens into an antechamber that is defined by and between the mouthpiece, the pressure ring, and the cartridge housing; and an interior opening 1037 defined by the mouthpiece between the antechamber and the enclosed interior space of the mouthpiece for facilitating airflow through the port 1038 and antechamber into and through the enclosed interior area of the mouthpiece 1010 and out of the mouthpiece opening 1036 when a breath is drawn.

[0157] FIG. 31 is a bottom plan view of the mouthpiece 1010 of the cartridge assembly 1004.

[0158] FIG. 32 is a bottom perspective view of the mouthpiece 1010 of the cartridge assembly 1004.

[0159] FIG. 33 discloses software flow for firmware of the electronic device 100 similar to that described above but with some variations and represents an alternative implementation. Some preferred names for software functions and classes are set forth in FIG. 33.

[0160] FIGS. 34-44 illustrates various user interface screens 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, and 120 for an app that is installed and run on a smartphone, such as an iPhone or an Android device, and which app communicates with the electronic device 100and specifically with the handheld base assembly 102 of the electronic device 100wirelessly using a protocol such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

[0161] In particular, the user interface 110 of FIG. 34 shows a number of doses dispensed within the last twenty-four hours. The user interface 110 further includes two user settings (changeable via toggles): one for enabling or disabling vibrations generated by the haptic engine during aerosolizing; and one for locking the electronic device so that it cannot be used.

[0162] User interface 111 of FIG. 35 shows the total number of doses dispensed, settings for enabling/disabling the haptic engine and for locking the device. The user interface 111 also includes expandable menus relating to Start Breath settings; Breath Duration settings; and End Breath settings, as illustrated in FIGS. 36 and 37. The battery level and whether the cartridge is connected also are indicated.

[0163] User interface 112 of FIGS. 38-40 are similar to user interface 111 but include the ability to enable or disable additional devices (sees as device 1, device 2, and device 3).

[0164] User interface 113 of FIGS. 41-44 is similar to user interface 111, but is also scrollable for viewing settings (enable/disable) for additional devices.

[0165] User interface 114 of FIG. 43 shows current settings with expandable/dropdown menus for changing those settings.

[0166] User interface 115 of FIG. 44 shows scanning that is occurring for devices within range for connection with the app and is shown upon selection of Find New Device in user interface 114.

[0167] FIG. 45 illustrates possible user experiences when interacting with GUIs of the software in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, which GUIs and sequences thereof are intended to drive adherence and compliance with prescribed medication use.

[0168] FIG. 46 illustrates features and capabilities of the software in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention, whether performed on the electronic device or on a mobile application on a smartphone, tablet device, or personal computer that is in communication with the electronic device.

[0169] It will be appreciated from the foregoing that in at least one embodiment, the electronic device comprises a handheld base assembly and a cartridge assembly, and that the cartridge assembly and the handheld base assembly are configured to removably couple together. The cartridge assembly preferably comprises a mouthpiece; a cartridge; and a bladder assembly as described in the incorporated disclosures.

[0170] Furthermore, the bladder assembly preferably comprises a bladder; a wick contained within the bladder; and a mesh assembly, wherein the mesh assembly preferably comprises a mesh material and a piezoelectric material, the mesh material being configured to vibrate when the piezoelectric material is actuated, whereby an aerosol is produced when the mesh material contacts a liquid of the bladder such that the aerosol may be inhaled through the mouthpiece. The handheld base assembly and cartridge assembly are configured magnetically to couple together and, specifically, the cartridge assembly magnetically mounts onto an end of the handheld base assembly.

[0171] In preferred embodiments, the cartridge assembly is disposable and eliminates potential patient misuse after its intended use. Moreover, because the vibrating mesh, ancillary aerosolizing components, and the liquid reservoir are all part of the disposable design, there is no maintenance or cleaning, and the device operates at optimal functionality.

[0172] The cartridge assembly also provides cartridge tracking, monitoring, user authentication, and geo-fencing capabilities for an increased standard of care and patient outcomes.

[0173] In use, the patient's inhalation triggers the vibrating mesh to activate under normal inspiratory use. A Bluetooth-enabled mobile app integration preferably is provided that logs precise dosing data in real-time, which is easily accessible by patient and clinician. The device is feature rich with visual indicators like a fully digital OLED display, and the smart cartridge ensures lifecycle, tamper-proof and chain of custody compliance from manufacture to delivery. The Bluetooth-enabled capabilities of the device further enables mobile application for compliance and precise dosing as well as accessible, real-time EMR data for providers, clinicians, and patients. In further facilitating precise dosing, customizable haptic vibration toggles, accessible via the mobile app, signal the end of the precisely metered dose.

[0174] Features of such preferred commercial embodiments include: no heat is used in the aerosolization and thus no HPHCs are produced; preferred commercial embodiments can be characterized as a breath actuated inhaler for all patient age groups; preferred commercial embodiments are ideal for thermo and pressure sensitive APIs and biologics; preferred commercial embodiments have local or systemic treatment capabilities; preferred commercial embodiments provide accurate and efficient metered dose delivery; and preferred commercial embodiment enable and facilitate subscription service, in-home delivery for continuity of care in chronic disease management.

[0175] Additional perceived benefits of aspects and features of the invention include: real-time data provided on screen; real-time data captured via mobile app; stored data in the electronic device; cost reduction for providers/insurers; predictive analytics; EMR & HIPAA compliant data; increase digital adherence & compliance (companion app & true DTX); gamification/digital prompts to encourage cessation and reduce misuseindication area: nicotine reduction therapy (NRT); and gamification/digital prompts to encourage therapeutic adherence and reduce misuseindication area: universal inhalation therapeutics.

[0176] Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the invention has broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the invention.

[0177] For example, it is recognized that the path of the aerosolized liquid through the electronic device is defined solely within the cartridge assembly, which does not include either the power source (battery) or the electronic circuitry (processor/firmware/transceiver), with the possible exception of a non-transient computer readable medium that preferably is located adjacent a bottom of the cartridge assembly if included. Because of this innovative aspect, i.e., because the electronics and power components are excluded and isolated from the airpath, being located in a separate and removable assembly of the electronic device, the possibility of airpath toxicity is reduced.

[0178] Accordingly, while the invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.