| 摘要 |
<p>An aerosol inhalation device (1) comprises an aerosol holding chamber (15) having attached to one end thereof a flexible cap (16). Flexible cap (16) is adapted to fit over the distal end of a cylindrical shell (17) and comprises an aperture (18) through which a standard inhaler mouthpiece may be sealingly inserted so as to dispense airborne medication into chamber (15). A diaphragm valve mechanism (10) comprises a diaphragm valve support structure (12) having passages (19) extending therethrough. Projecting normal to grid (33) are a number of locating pins (21) which are adapted to extend through holes (30) in diaphragm valve (11). Diaphragm valve (11) formed of flexible material is provided with a pair of cross slits (29) each corresponding with the grid bridge element (39). The central portion (32) of diaphragm valve (11) is located within a major flow passage (19) whereas the outer peripheral edge portion (31) of diaphragm valve (11) is located within exit passage (27). The device (1) further comprises a mouthpiece (22) and optionally a mask (13) to fit over the nose and mouth of a user. Upon breathing inwardly, central portion (32) of diaphragm valve (11) will open whilst at the same time outer edge portion (31) of diaphragm valve (11) will close. Accordingly, aerosol suspended within chamber (15) will pass through the diaphragm valve (11) to be breathed in by the user. Upon the user exhaling, central portion (32) will close and be retained in a closed position against grid (33). At the same time, peripheral outer edge portion (31) of diaphragm valve (11) will open so as to allow the user's exhaled breath to escape via passage (27) and exit ports (37). <IMAGE></p> |
