Nebulizer apparatus and method

摘要

A nebulizer for efficiently and reliably delivering aerosolized fluid to an inhaling patient is disclosed. The nebulizer includes a fluid channel air inlet and fluid channel air inlet valve responsive to either a manual force external of the nebulizer, or a patient's breathing, to begin the nebulization process. Also provided is a method of providing nebulization including the steps of moving a fluid channel air inlet valve against a fluid channel air inlet so that a negative pressure may build up over the fluid in the fluid channel to draw fluid from the fluid reservoir and begin nebulization during inhalation.

主权项

1. A nebulizer for generating an aerosol, the nebulizer comprising:
a housing having an air inlet and a chamber for holding the aerosol; an air outlet communicating with the chamber for permitting the aerosol to be withdrawn from the chamber; a pressurized gas inlet located in the chamber; a diverter surface positioned in the chamber in a fixed position relative to the pressurized gas inlet, the diverter surface defining a fluid orifice positioned at a non-parallel angle to the fluid orifice, wherein the diverter surface is positioned to divert gas issuing from the pressurized gas inlet over the fluid orifice defined by diverter surface; a fluid channel in communication with the fluid orifice; a fluid channel air inlet in communication with the fluid channel; and a fluid channel air inlet valve movably positioned adjacent the fluid channel air inlet, wherein the fluid channel air inlet valve is moveable in response to a patient's breathing between a nebulizing position, where the fluid channel air inlet valve seals against the fluid channel air inlet to permit a negative pressure to draw a fluid through the fluid channel, and a non-nebulizing position, wherein the fluid channel air inlet valve is configured to permit air to enter the fluid channel air inlet so as to prevent formation of a negative pressure sufficient to draw the fluid through the fluid channel.