Child Resistant Flow Control of Inhalable Pharmaceuticals

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. utility patent application Ser. No. 17/888,924 filed Aug. 16, 2022 entitled “Child Resistant Vaporizer Tips and Devices” which was a Continuation-in-Part Application which claimed the benefit of Applicant's U.S. Provisional patent application 63/346,964 filed May 30, 2022, entitled “Child Resistant Vaporizer Tips and Devices” and Applicant's U.S. Provisional patent application 63/310,584 filed Feb. 16, 2022, entitled “Child Resistant Vaporizer Devices”. This application also claims the benefit of Applicant's U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/457,312 filed Jun. 28, 2019 “CHILD RESISTANT VAPORIZER DEVICES” (Now U.S. Pat. No. 11,457,667) which claimed the benefit of Applicant's U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/691,609 filed Jun. 29, 2018 “TAMPER RESISTANT VAPORIZER DEVICES” and 62/698,422 filed Jul. 16, 2018 entitled “SAFER VAPORIZER DEVICES” and U.S. Patent application Ser. No. 63/310,584 filed Feb. 16, 2022 “CHILD RESISTANT VAPORIZER DEVICES” the entirety of each is incorporated by reference herein in as if set forth in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates generally to preventing and/or control of fluid flow from a portable device. More specifically inhibiting use by children of inhalable fluids without the need for electronics.

BACKGROUD OF THE DISCLOSURE

Inhalation is known and used to deliver pharmaceutical and/or natural compounds to the body which are absorbed in the lungs including dry powders, mists and vaporized essential oils These devices may be a simple as inhale to draw out powder or a liquid mist or and a battery supply heats a heating element to heat extract and produce vapor as part of the fluid flow. Other device may require a sequence of button pushing or electrical switching.

Cannabis and hemp extracted oils and nicotine containing aqueous solutions are also commonly found in cartridges which upon the application of heat release compounds to inhale.

Inhalation drugs are very commonly used for respiratory diseases. Such inhalables include but are not limited to peptides, small molecules, chemicals, biologics, pharmaceuticals, man-made compounds and natural compounds.

Children are curious and will imitate adult use or simple explore. It is therefore a desideratum to have child resistant control of fluid dispensing devices.

DISCLOSURE

In the following description of examples of implementations, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and which show, by way of illustration, specific implementations of the present disclosure that may be utilized. Other implementations may be utilized, and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Disclosed herein are means of control that require threshold predetermined force to open a fluid pathway for the fluid flow of active ingredients (Material) from an inhalable fluid dispensing device for inhalation. The predetermined force is such that children as tested under Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 are unable to open the fluid pathway. Such ingredients include but are not limited to nicotine, peptides, small molecules, chemicals, biologics, pharmaceuticals, man-made compounds and natural compounds. Carrier fluid for the active ingredients such as propellent, gas, mist, powder, air are disclosed.

Vaporizers for heating Material are known they may include batteries, control circuits along with some form of reservoir of extract or solution to heat. Also known are non-heat producing inhalers both using compressed fluid or propellant and utilizing propellent, mists, particulate, dry power and the like to distribute Material into a fluid flow. The disclosure herein is applicable to inhalable fluid and is agnostic to the details of the dispensing device which may provide a heated fluid of Material and/or an unheated fluid of Material.

In some instances, batteries, control circuits and the like are known. For heat producing device to produce inhalable vapor for oil or aqueous extracts or compounds. This disclosure should be interpreted broadly as the mechanical solutions for a plethora of devices, including but not limited to devices which heat a fluid to produce vapor. Device and methods which distribute a heated or unheated dry powder, solid or fluid into aerosolized flow which can be added into a gaseous carrier fluid thereby distributing distribute the chemicals, biologics, pharmaceutical and/or natural compounds for use and/or treatment.

Said devices at least one of discourage, frustrate or prevent child use and exposure to the aerosolized material per Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 which describes safety packaging for poisons and the need for child resistant packaging. That governmental code is hereby referenced and incorporated by this reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein.

In part § 1700.15 sets standards to prevent accidental or misuse by children. It also has specific guideline for children portions reproduced below:

§ 1700.15 Poison Prevention Packaging Standards

• • To protect children from serious personal injury or serious illness resulting from handling, using, or ingesting household substances, the Commission has determined that packaging designed and constructed to meet the following standards shall be regarded as “special packaging” within the meaning of section 2(4) of the act. Specific application of these standards to substances requiring special packaging is in accordance with § 1700.14.
  • (a) General requirements. The special packaging must continue to function with the effectiveness specifications set forth in paragraph (b) of this section when in actual contact with the substance contained therein. This requirement may be satisfied by appropriate scientific evaluation of the compatibility of the substance with the special packaging to determine that the chemical and physical characteristics of the substance will not compromise or interfere with the proper functioning of the special packaging. The special packaging must also continue to function with the effectiveness specifications set forth in paragraph (b) of this section for the number of openings and closings customary for its size and contents. This requirement may be satisfied by appropriate technical evaluation based on physical wear and stress factors, force required for activation, and other such relevant factors which establish that, for the duration of normal use, the effectiveness specifications of the packaging would not be expected to lessen.
  • (b) Effectiveness specifications. Special packaging, tested by the method described in § 1700.20 shall meet the following specifications:
  • (1) Child-resistant effectiveness of not less than 85 percent without a demonstration and not less than 80 percent after a demonstration of the proper means of opening such special packaging. In the case of unit packaging, child-resistant effectiveness of not less than 80 percent.

This disclosure should be interpreted broadly and is a mechanical solution for a plethora of vaporizer devices (including but not limited to at least one of a device which heats an extract into vapor, distributes with or without heat a Material (including but not limited to peptides, small molecules, chemicals, biologics, pharmaceuticals, man-made compounds and natural compounds). Material refers to active ingredients provided for inhalation. The FDA defines Active Ingredient as: “An active ingredient is any component that provides pharmacological activity or other direct effect in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or to affect the structure or any function of the body of man or animals”

Active ingredients/Material is dispensed into a carrier fluid such as gaseous flow of one or more of a mist, a gaseous fluid flow, particulate, and powder) to discourage, frustrate or prevent child use. Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 describes safety packaging for poisons and the need for child resistant packaging. That governmental code is hereby referenced and incorporated by this reference as if fully set forth herein. In relevant part is sets standards to prevent accidental or misuse by children. It also has specific guideline for aerosols.

It is appreciated by those skilled in the art that some of the circuits, components, controllers, modules, and/or devices of the system disclosed in the present application are described as being in signal communication with each other, where signal communication refers to any type of communication and/or connection between the circuits, components, modules, and/or devices that allows a circuit, component, module, and/or device to pass and/or receive signals and/or information from another circuit, component, module, and/or device. The communication and/or connection may be along any signal path between the circuits, components, modules, and/or devices that allows signals and/or information to pass from one circuit, component, module, and/or device to another and includes wireless or wired signal paths. The signal paths may be physical such as, for example, conductive wires, electromagnetic wave guides, attached and/or electromagnetic or mechanically coupled terminals, semi-conductive or dielectric materials or devices, or other similar physical connections or couplings. Additionally, signal paths may be non-physical such as free-space (in the case of electromagnetic propagation) or information paths through digital components where communication information is passed from one circuit, component, module, and/or device to another in varying analog and/or digital formats without passing through a direct electromagnetic connection. These information paths may also include analog-to-digital conversions (“ADC”), digital-to-analog (“DAC”) conversions, data transformations such as, for example, fast Fourier transforms (“FFTs”), time-to-frequency conversations, frequency-to-time conversions, database mapping, signal processing steps, coding, modulations, demodulations, etc. The controller devices and smart devices disclosed herein operate with memory and processors whereby code is executed during processes to transform data, the computing devices run on a processor (such as, for example, controller or other processor that is not shown) which may include a central processing unit (“CPU”), digital signal processor (“DSP”), application specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), field programmable gate array (“FPGA”), microprocessor, etc. Alternatively, portions DCA devices may also be or include hardware devices such as logic circuitry, a CPU, a DSP, ASIC, FPGA, etc. and may include hardware and software capable of receiving and sending information.

Aspects of the methods, devices and systems of barriers to selective block fluid flow from a portable source of inhalable Material disclosed herein include a fluid barrier having a body, open top, open bottom end, flexible side walls, front wall and back walls forming a fluid pathway; a deformable valve within the fluid pathway; wherein said deformable valve when at rest is in a first at sealed state is configured to block the fluid pathway; and, wherein said fluid barrier is configured to be one integrated on a inhalable fluid dispensing device and attached to an inhalable fluid dispensing device. In some instances, the inhalable fluid dispensing device provides at least one of heated fluid and unheated fluid containing Material. In some instances, the Material is at least one of peptides, small molecules, chemicals, biologics, pharmaceuticals, man-made compounds and natural compounds.

Aspects of the methods, devices and systems of barriers to selective block fluid flow from a portable source of inhalable Material disclosed herein include a fluid barrier having a body, open top, open bottom end, flexible side walls, front wall and back walls forming a fluid pathway; a deformable valve within the fluid pathway; wherein said deformable valve when at rest is in a first at sealed state is configured to block the fluid pathway; wherein said fluid barrier is configured to be one integrated on a inhalable fluid dispensing device and attached to an inhalable fluid dispensing device and wherein applying a predetermined squeeze force to the deformable valve, said valve is in a second unsealed state configured to temporarily unblock at least a portion of the fluid pathway whereby fluid containing Material can flow from the inhalable fluid dispensing device. In some instances, a first and second interface connects the fluid barrier to the inhalable fluid dispensing device; and, wherein the fluid pathway way of the fluid barrier is, when the valve is unsealed, in fluid communication with a fluid pathway from inhalable fluid source. In some instances, the fluid contains at least nicotine.

Aspects of the methods, devices and systems of barriers to selective block fluid flow from a portable source of inhalable Material disclosed herein include a fluid barrier having a body, open top, open bottom end, flexible side walls, front wall and back walls forming a fluid pathway; a deformable valve within the fluid pathway; wherein said deformable valve when at rest is in a first at sealed state is configured to block the fluid pathway; wherein said fluid barrier is configured to be one integrated on a inhalable fluid dispensing device and attached to an inhalable fluid dispensing device and wherein using the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least ninety percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force. In some instances, the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) space 1700.15 at least ninety-five percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force. In some instances, the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least eighty-five percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force. In some instances, the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least eighty percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force.

Aspects of the methods, devices and systems of barriers to selective block fluid flow from a portable source of inhalable Material disclosed herein a fluid barrier having a body, open top, open bottom end, flexible side walls, front wall and back walls forming a fluid pathway; a deformable valve within the fluid pathway; and, wherein said deformable valve when at rest is in a first at sealed state is configured to block the fluid pathway. In some instances, the fluid contains at least one of gas, air, particulate, propellent, vapor, mist and powder. In some instances, applying a predetermined squeeze force to the deformable valve, said valve is in a second unsealed state configured to temporarily unblock at least a portion of the fluid pathway. In some instances, using the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least eighty percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force. In some instances, the material is at least at least one of peptides, small molecules, chemicals, biologics, pharmaceuticals, man-made compounds and natural compounds.

Aspects of the methods, devices and systems of child resistant barriers for portable sources of inhalable active ingredients including an inhalable fluid dispensing device having a fluid outlet; a fluid barrier containing a deformable valve which is configured to control the dispensing of fluid containing active ingredients from the fluid outlet; wherein the deformable valve is configured with a first temporary sealed state when at rest and a second temporarily open state which allows fluid flow when a predetermined minimum squeeze force is applied; wherein said fluid barrier is configured to be one of integrated onto the inhalable fluid dispensing device and attached to the inhalable fluid dispensing device. In some instances, the inhalable active ingredient is at least one of peptides, small molecules, chemicals, biologics, pharmaceuticals, man-made compounds and natural compounds. In some instances, the fluid barrier has one or more flexible walls generally forming a fluid pathway with a deformable valve between an open bottom attached to the outlet and an open top for inhalation of active ingredients. In some instances, the inhalable fluid dispensing device provides at least one of heated fluid and unheated fluid containing active ingredients. In some instances, the inhalable active ingredients contain at least nicotine. In some instances, using the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least ninety percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force. In some instances, using the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least ninety-five percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force. In some instances, using the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least eighty-five percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force. In some instances, using the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least eighty percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force. In some instances, the fluid barrier has one or more flexible walls generally forming a fluid pathway with a deformable valve between an open bottom attached to the outlet and an open top for inhalation of active ingredients.

Aspects of the methods, devices and systems to selective block fluid flow from a portable inhalable fluid source including affixing a fluid barrier in fluid communication with an outlet of an inhalable fluid dispensing device containing at least active ingredients; placing a deformable valve within the fluid barrier; and, wherein the fluid barrier is affixed to the outlet at one end, has one or more flexible walls and an open top for inhalation; and, wherein the deformable valve is configured with a first temporary sealed state when at rest and a second temporary open state which opens the fluid communication from the outlet to the open top when a predetermined minimum squeeze force is applied. In some instances, said fluid barrier is configured to be one of integrated onto the inhalable fluid dispensing device and attached to the inhalable fluid dispensing device. In some instances, the fluid contains at least one of gas, particulate, propellent, vapor, mist and powder. In some instances, the inhalable active ingredient is at least one of nicotine, peptides, small molecules, chemicals, biologics, pharmaceuticals, man-made compounds and natural compounds. In some instances, using the testing criteria set forth in Title 16 of the Code of Federal Rules (CFR) 1700.15 at least eighty percent of children cannot apply the predetermined squeeze force.

The following description of examples of implementations, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and which show, by way of illustration, specific implementations of the present disclosure that may be utilized. Other implementations may be utilized, and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

FIGURES

The invention may be better understood by referring to the following figures. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. In the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is a component view of a pen type vaporizer for extract.

FIGS. 2A-2D illustrates aspects of a snap-on tamper resistant flow control vaporizer cartridge.

FIGS. 3A to 3C show an assembly view and a sequence of use view of a flip top tamper resistant flow control vaporizer cartridge.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show non heated devices for dispensing inhalable Material.

FIGS. 5A-5L illustrate aspects of latching flow control tamper resistant vaporizer cartridges.

FIG. 6 illustrates aspects of a multi-latch flow control tamper resistant vaporizer cartridges.

FIGS. 7A-7H illustrate aspects of rotating flow control tamper resistant vaporizer cartridge.

FIG. 8 illustrates aspects of flow control between a tip and cp.

FIG. 9 illustrates a sheath utilizing a snap-on resistant vaporizer lock.

FIG. 10 illustrates a magnetic latch cap for a resistant vaporizer lock.

FIG. 11 illustrates a magnetic latch cap for a resistant vaporizer lock.

FIGS. 12A-12F illustrate a sequence of opening a squeeze valve tip.

FIG. 13 illustrates an assembly view of a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with deformable child safe fluid barrier.

FIGS. 14A-14E illustrate aspects of a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with deformable child safe fluid barrier in a first position.

FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate aspects of a illustrate a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with deformable child safe fluid barrier in a second position.

FIG. 15D illustrates a deformable child safety fluid barrier in a first position with optional stiffening regions.

FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate force limiting regions which may optionally be combined with a deformable child safety fluid barrier.

FIGS. 17A-17C illustrate a deformable child safety child safety fluid barrier for a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with internal torque limiting structure in a first position.

FIGS. 18A-18C illustrate a deformable child safety child safety fluid barrier for a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with internal torque limiting structure in a second position.

FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate a deformable child safety child safety fluid barrier for a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with an external force limiting fixture in a first position.

FIGS. 20A-20C illustrate a deformable child safety child safety vapor barrier for portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with an external force limiting fixture in a second position.

FIGS. 21A-21E illustrate a turn valve tamper proof tip and a sequence of opening a fluid pathway in a tip.

FIGS. 22A-2D illustrate extending latches on a barrier which are configured to engage catches on a tip to limit movement of the barrier and/or unintended usage of a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device.

FIGS. 23A-23B illustrate extending latches on a cap which are configured to engage catches on a tip to limit movement of the barrier and/or unintended usage of a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device.

FIG. 24 illustrates an interface formed on the tip and a stop extends inward from the fluid barrier.

FIGS. 25A-25C illustrate a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device without safety tip.

FIGS. 26A-26D illustrate a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with a child safety cap in a first position.

FIG. 26E illustrates a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with a child safety cap in a second position.

FIGS. 27A-27D illustrate a portable inhalable fluid dispensing device with a child safety cap in a second position.

FIG. 28 illustrates a rotatable child safety cap and tip combination

FIGS. 29A-29C illustrates the tip of FIG. 28.

FIGS. 30A-30C illustrates the cap of FIGS. 28-29C.

FIGS. 31A-31C illustrates a sequential rotational movement of a cap around a tip of FIG. 28 under sufficient force to rotate the cap over the tip and expose the fluid pathway for fluid from a first at rest position to a second open position and when released back to the first position.

All descriptions and callouts in the Figures and all content therein are hereby incorporated by this reference as if fully set forth herein.

FURTHER DISCLOSURE

Disclosed herein are aspects of devices, methods and systems of child resistant/safety fixtures and devices to attach to, or be formed as part of, inhalation outlets for inhalable Material (active ingredients). In some instance the inhalable Material is one of heated and not heated. In some instance the inhalable Material includes but is not limited to one or more peptides, small molecules, chemicals, biologics, pharmaceuticals, man-made compounds and natural compounds. In some instances, said Material is transported for inhalation by way of at least on of gas, air, particulate, propellent, vapor, mist and powder.

FIG. 1 illustrates a traditional vaporizer system 10 with replaceable cartridge 100. Body 150 containing a power supply and controller (not shown) has an on/off switch 152 accessible on the body a distal end 154 and a proximal end 156. A cartridge interface 158 is configured at one end to mount to the replaceable cartridge 100, in some instances the cartridge may be integrated into the body forming a single unit without a removable cartridge. Cartridges are shown as linear but those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that a squat or square cartridge with an inhalation outlet is also within the scope of this disclosure. The cartridge has a first end 102 configured to mate with the cartridge interface 158. At the first end is a power connection 103 configured to electrically connect to the power coupling 160 on the body. The interface connection may be friction fit or preferably via threaded fitting.

A tube 104 is connected to the first end on the opposite side as the power connection 103. Traditionally the tube is a fluid reservoir containing a vapor-fluid which upon the application of sufficient heat will generate an inhalable vapor. In some instances, the vapor-fluid 119 contains at least nicotine. In some instances, a flavor extract and nicotine are at least in the vapor-fluid. Within the tube is an electrical heating element 105 containing a heater and connected to a vapor pathway 115 which may have a tip gasket 117 at its tip connection 118. The tip has a distal end 120 which connects with the connection end of the fluid pathway and with the tube 104 and it has a proximal end 125. A vapor/fluid outlet 130 is formed axially in the tip from the distal end to the proximal end and is configured to connect to the vapor pathway to form a fluid pathway from the cartridge heater to an inhalation port 135 at the top of the proximal end of the tip.

FIGS. 2A through 2D illustrate aspects of a snap-on tamper resistant tip cover having top 201 blocking one end of a hollow body 202 forming a vapor blocking cap 200 configured to mate over the tip 110. Optionally, near the top 201 one or more of a texture, extension, bump, divot, outcropping or indentation 203 may be formed as a finger, fingernail or bite grasp. At the distal end 204 of the vapor blocking cap are one or more flexible fingers 205. The flexibility is a matter of material choice. Plastics, resins and thin metals may be used. Materials with the sufficient resiliency to form a flexible movable structure that can move radially when displaced are adequate. Some describe these materials as living hinges formed in a single molded plastic piece with adequate resiliency to move sufficient time to provide a viable tamper resistant cover for a predetermined number of attachments and removals. Spring steel, Polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, polycarbonate, and the like may be used. The finger(s) 205 form a shaped latch configured to connect into or over a radially interference member 137 formed around the distal end 120 of the tip.

FIGS. 3A through 3C show aspects if a collared flip top 300. The flexible arm 301 is affixed to a ring-shaped collar 302 that firmly mates with an interface 350 on the tip. The mating may be pressure fit, latch and catch, sonic weld or adhesive. The collar may be a partial circle. The flexible arm has a vertical member 304 a cross member 305 and a lip 308 which are a single piece that is configured to tightly fit over the tip. A pivot 310 is formed between the flexible arm and the collar allowing rotation along the path of arrow 1000. By applying force at the lip 208 along the line of arrow 1002 the flip top 300 may be displaced from blocking the vapor/fluid outlet 130.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show non heated devices 400 and 400′ for dispensing inhalable Material (active ingredients). The containments/reservoirs 401 are a portable source of. During use Material is drawn through a Material fluid pathway 402 which leads through a tip 110 for inhalation. Unless a fluid flow barrier including but not limited to those set forth in FIGS. 1-3C and FIGS. 5A-31C a user can inhale said inhalable Material. An optional dose/aliquot measuring mechanical switch 403 is in fluid communication with both the Material fluid pathway 402 and the reservoir fluid pathway 404. Prior to inhalation Material is in a carrier fluid 410. Carrier fluids include but are not limited to gas (pressurized or unpressurized), particulate, air, gas, air, particulate, propellent, vapor, mist and powder, aqueous fluid and the like. Inhalation of the unheated carrier fluid 410 during inhalation via the Material fluid pathway transports the Material to the user. In some instances, a buffer or mixing region 420 is in fluid communication with the flow of Material and/or Material carrier fluid whereby air via at least one vent 430 is mixed with said Material and/or said material fluid whereby the Material is inhalable from said device through said tip.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the child resistant flow control means, devices and methods described in FIGS. 5A-31C are configured for attachment to or formation as part of both unheated devices providing Material (active ingredients) for inhalation and heated devices providing Material for inhalation.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that for purposes of this disclosure “vapor” which is a fluid configured to transport Material for inhalation includes any carrier fluid. Including but not limited to the means, devices and methods described in FIGS. 5A-31C which are configured for attachment to or formation as part of both heated and unheated devices providing Material for inhalation.

FIGS. 5A through 5L and FIG. 6 illustrate axially extending latches on a cap which are configured to engage catches on a tip to limit movement of the cap and/or unintended usage of a vaporizer. FIGS. 5A through 5L illustrate a vapor barrier cap 550 connecting a tip 500 having a fluid vapor pathway 115 formed therethrough, a proximal end 502 with a terminal outlet 113 and a distal end 504. The distal end configured to fluidly connect to the vapor pathway 115 of a cartridge 100 (see FIG. 1) forming a fluid pathway from the cartridge to the tip. A barrier cap 550 is a generally hollow tube body 551 and a top 552 formed as part of the cap and partially covering the proximal end 553 of the tube body partially sealing the tube. The tube body 551 forms a vapor flow guide (VFG) 560 wherein vapor from an unblocked terminal outlet 113 will flow. The VFG terminates into at least one inhalation port 561 and 561′ which form an inhalation outlet whereby vapor (which may be any carrier fluid) can flow along the line 1050. Inside the barrier cap is at least one plunger 570. The plunger is an extended leg which is configured to block the outlet terminal when moved into same. At the end of the plunger is a shaped plunger tip 572 that is configured to reversibly block said outlet.

An RFID tag or chip 588 may be added. A slot or cavity 589 for said RFID tag may be formed in one of the tips 500 or the barrier cap 550. Said RFID tag is configured to cooperate with a track and trace system for vaporizer cartridges.

The barrier cap 550 is configured to cooperate with the tip to facilitate limited movement of the barrier cap axially along the tip. Said movement requires a force that exceeds the force at least 70% of 5-year-old children can exert. More preferable exceeds the force 90% of 5-year-old children can exert and most preferably exceeds the force at least 95% of 5-year-old children can exert.

CAP MOVEMENT

From the distal end of the barrier cap extend at least one moving latch wall 556 separated by a vertical flex guide 567. Each moving latch wall 556 and finger latch 558 is configured to face the center of said barrier cap. An additional horizontal flex guide 557′ may be formed in the moving latch wall 556. The depiction of the flexible finger as a small area of the distal end of the cap is not a limitation and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the range of flexible fingers or wall sections may be a larger or smaller. The choice of material may impact the finger dimensions to achieve a predetermined latching force. flexible finger and latch are configured to reversible latch into catches formed on the tip. A section of the wall forms a moving latch wall 556, supporting a finger latch, is configured to bend without breaking if sufficient radial force is applied to the flexible finger latch. That moving latch wall 556 may be thinner, grooved or otherwise formed to act as a living hinge. In some instances, the selected thickness of the wall adjacent to the moving latch wall and regions distance from the free end 559 of the moving latch wall 556 cooperate to limit finger latch 558 movement to correspond to a predetermined amount of force being applied. The first catch 510 is an annular extended ring or indentation around the distal end 504 of the tip. A second catch 520 is formed above the first catch near to the proximal end 502 of the tip and an interference member or region 515 is between the first and second catches. That region is formed as an annular section that may be indented or extended.

In operation the latch 558 and flexible finger 555 are shaped to be at rest (not under substantial radial stress) and the first catch 510 is shaped to facilitate movement into and out of the catch in an axial and upward direction over the interference member 515 along the path of line 1075 to reach the second catch 520. The second catch 520 is shaped and configured to prevent upward movement of the latch 558. At least one shaped region 521 if the second catch forms a stop to restrict and limit removal of the barrier cap. The latch 558 may have a shape corresponding to the second catch. When the latch is in the second catch the barrier cap can normally only be moved downward along the path of arrow 1075 towards the distal end of the tip.

VAPOR/FLUID FLOW BLOCKING

The plunger 570 and plunger tip 572 formed inside the barrier cap cooperatively move along the same line as the barrier cap relative to the tip. When the barrier cap is fixed at the first catch the plunger tip block the terminal outlet 113 of the tip thereby blocking the fluid flow. The fluid flow which includes any carrier fluid heated or not heated from a Material source, including but not limited to a disposable pen-like device containing a power supply, controller, heating element or means and a fluid containing at least Material. The fluid is configured to release vapor containing at least Material upon application of sufficient heat. In non-heated devices the carrier fluid being configured to release the carrier fluid and Material without application of heat. When the barrier cap is extended axially the barrier cap is lifted and the plunger no longer blocks the outlet terminal. Accordingly, fluid flow will flow through the vapor flow guide (VFG) and exit the barrier cap via the at least one inhalation ports 561/561′. To restrict flow and prevent unauthorized use by children and the like the barrier cap should be moved back to the first catch position thereby blocking the outlet. Grasping features 580 such as rough areas, indentations, divots, bumps, grooves outdents and the like may be added to at least a portion of the barrier cap to facilitate gripping. The movement of the barrier cap relative to the tip requires a predetermined amount of force. In some instances, the vapor barrier cap may be disposable as is the cartridge—the action of the flexible finger cooperating with the catches should provide for at least the number of use cycles said cartridge can supply. A use cycle is generally the number of consumer uses of the device. Generally speaking, at least 60 movements between catch one and catch two (a cycle) for a 1 ml cartridge would be expected. More preferable about 75 cycles.

FIG. 6 illustrate another barrier cap 650 configured to connect to tip 500. The multi-leg barrier cap 650 is a generally hollow tube body 651 and a top 652 over a proximal end 653 of the body partially sealing the body tube. A series of flexible finger 655 are formed around the distal end 654 of the cap. The tube body forms a vapor (fluid) flow guide (VFG) wherein vapor (carrier fluid) from an unblocked outlet terminal will flow. The VFG terminates into at least one inhalation port 66i and 661′ which form an inhalation outlet whereby said vapor can be inhaled. Inside the barrier cap is at least one plunger as described in reference to FIGS. 5A-5E, and which functions as described above.

FIGS. 7A through 7H disclose a twisting vapor outlet tip 700 and a control cap 750. Axially extendable members formed as part of the cap are configured as latches to releasably engage a series of catches formed on the corresponding tip 700 thereby limiting movement of the cap and/or unintended usage of a Material containing device configure to supply Material in a carrier fluid. The connecting tip 700 has a fluid pathway formed therethrough, a proximal end 702 with a terminal outlet 113 and a distal end 704. The distal end is configured to mate with the tip connection end 118 of a cartridge 100 (see FIG. 1) forming a fluid pathway from the cartridge to the tip.

The control cap 750 is a generally hollow tube body 751 and a top 752 formed as part of the cap and partially covering the proximal end 752 of the tube body partially sealing the tube. The distal end 754 of the body terminates at a bottom edge 756. The tube body 751 has an inner annular wall 760 which forms a vapor flow guide (VFG) wherein vapor from an unblocked terminal outlet 113 will flow. The VFG terminates into at least one inhalation port 761 and 761′ which form an inhalation outlet whereby said vapor can flow along the line. Inside the control cap is at least one plunger 770. The plunger is an extended leg which is configured to block the terminal outlet 113 when moved into same. At the end of the plunger is a shaped plunger tip 772 that is configured to reversibly block said outlet.

The control cap 750 is configured to cooperate with the tip to facilitate limited movement of the barrier cap axially along the tip. Said movement requires a force that exceeds the force at least 70% of 5-year-old children can apply. More preferable exceeds the force 90% of 5-year-old children can apply and most preferably exceeds the force at least 95% of 5-year-old children can apply. The control cap 750 has at least two flexible feet 780 extended from the distal end 754 of the control cap. Toe latches 785 extend inward from each of the flexible feet 780.

CAP MOVEMENT

The control cap moves radially and axially around the tip. Latches and catches formed between the toes and a series of catches and stops restrict the movement and set the force required to move the toes form one catch to another. Each toe 785 is configured to temporarily mate with catches. The catches and stop are formed in the catch section 711 of the side wall of the tip. A deep catch 712 is, as the name implies, deep. It extends inward radially further than other catches. The deep catch is configured to temporarily retain a toe 785 placed therein. The flexible feet 780 and toe 785 combination are removed from the deep catch by applying a rotational force along the line of arrow 1100. Sufficient force must be applied to the control cap to distort the flexible feet whereby the toe 785 can exit the deep well. When sufficient force is applied, the toe is moved to the shallow well 714. Once in the shallow well the control cap may be lifted axially along the tip following line 1150 thereby lifting the plunger tip 772 out of the terminal outlet 113. The shallow well extends upward closer towards the proximal end 752 of the control cap than the deep well does. At an upper boundary of the shallow catch a stop is formed and configured to inhibit removal of the control cap by prevent or limiting the toe from being displaced over it.

VAPOR/FLUID FLOW

The fluid pathway is selectively closed and opened via the rotating and linear movement of the control cap relative to the tip. Lifting the control cap along arrow 1100 opens the fluid pathway inside the tip and cap system and allows vapor (fluid) to flow from the terminal outlet 113 into the VFG and eventually out of the at least one inhalation port. To close off vapor flow from the outlet the user reverses the steps and linearly pushes the control cap 750 downward towards the distal end of the tip 704 along the line of arrow 1160.

FIG. 8 is a cut-away showing the open—close sequence of a tip 800 and cap cover 850 combinations to allow or block vapor. The vapor/fluid outlet 130 terminates in a shaped outlet terminal, the cap covers 850 is formed and configured to movable mate with the tip. The cap cover is substantially hollow and forms a vapor fluid guide VFG which terminates into at least one fluid pathway 835. A plunger 875 with a plunger tip 880 extend inside the cover cap towards the shaped inlet. The cap cover and tip cooperate to form a substantially sealed system wherein the plunger tip 880 is configured to temporarily seal or limit most of, the vapor/fluid outlet 130 when the cover cap is pushed down along the line of arrow 1200 thereby blocking vapor flow through the outlet to VFG interface 900.

FIG. 9 shows aspects of a sheathed vaporizer pen with a body or base 150 containing a power supply and control circuitry connected to a cartridge 100 having a tip 110 covered by a vapor blocking sheath 930 which mates with the body at an interface 940. The interface represents the latch and catch systems taught in FIGS. 2A-2D.

FIGS. 10 and 11 shows aspects of magnetic latch systems for a tamper resistant vaporizer cartridge and tip. In FIG. 10 a permanent magnet 1302 is affixed, embedded and/or attached to a tip 110. A cover 1300 that has at least a metallic section 1310 (however those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the entire cover may be magnetic). When the magnet and metallic section are aligned the magnet embedded in the tip restricts removal of the cap unless sufficient force is applied. The magnet has a sufficient magnetic field to restrict removal by a predetermined age child in accordance with applicable codes and regulations as previously noted.

In FIG. 11 a permanent magnet 1302 is affixed and/or embedded or attached to a tip 110. A cover 1305 has a metallic section 1320 with a gap 1400 formed therein. The gap forms a passageway by which the cap may be removed. However, when the magnet and metallic section are aligned the magnet embedded in the tip restricts removal of the cap unless sufficient force is applied to rotate the cap around the tip and align the gap to magnet. The magnet has a sufficient magnetic field to restrict the movement by a predetermined age child in accordance with applicable codes and regulations as previously noted.

FIGS. 12A-12F illustrate a vapor barrier device and method of selective blocking and unblocking vapor (carrier fluid) flow through a valve in a vapor barrier and out of approximal end or tip. The squeeze tip disclosed herein as a vapor barrier which is deformable to temporarily open (or unseal) a fluid pathway through said vapor barrier. The pressure required to open said pathway is predetermined to exceed that of what at least 90% of five-year children can apply. Most preferable to exceed a pressure that at least 95% of five-year children can apply.

The method and device teach a linear cartridge 100 configured to with a power supply. The portable vapor (carrier fluid) source and/or a cartridge having Material therein which may include a controller and power supply with a fluid vapor pathway 115. The vapor barrier also referred to as a tip or soft tip 1500 has a vapor/fluid outlet 130 through its distal end 120 which fluidly connects with the vapor pathway 115 from the cartridge 100. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the tip and cartridge may be replaceable on a power supply and controller device or the vapor cartridge or holding region for vapor generating fluid may be integrated into a body with power supply and controller are all within the scope of this disclosure. In each case, the valving disclosure herein which teaches devices, methods and systems to limit, stop or allow flow of vapor or carrier fluid containing Material is attachable or integrated into a plethora of vapor (carrier fluid) producing devices to limit child use.

The tip has a body 1501 with a top end 1502, bottom end 1504 and flexible side walls 1506 surrounding a fluid pathway formed within a pliable silicone or soft rubber-like material forming at least a portion of the tip. Within the soft tip section is formed a first half pathway 1512 fluidly connected to a second half pathway 1514 via a deformable valve 1515. The second half pathway is fluidly connected to an inhalation outlet 1510. The deformable valve 1515 is configured to open and close in response to pressure which deforms the soft tip and opens the valve. The soft tip is formed in a closed or blocking first at rest position which may be referred to as a sealed state. Operation of the valve is accomplished by exerting sufficient pressure on the sides of the soft tip via squeezing the side walls. A predetermined squeeze force deforms open the valve 1515 to a second position thereby allowing vapor (carrier fluid) containing Material from a cartridge fluidly connected to the tip will flow through the first and second half pathways.

To provide child protection the predetermined force is a force that is at least too great for at least ninety percent of five-year-old to overcome. More preferably the predetermined force is a force that is too great for at least ninety-five percent of five-year-old to overcome.

FIGS. 13-16B illustrate a device and method of method of selective blocking and unblocking a source of vapor (carrier fluid) from a portable carrier fluid source such as a reservoir, pressure vessel, containment, cartridge and an integrated cartridge with power supply controller. Carrier fluid flow from a portable source is through a tip of one of a replaceable cartridge which may be removably connected to a body and a disposable body.

All carrier fluid providing portable reservoirs and containments whether providing Material in a heated carrier fluid (vapor) or an unheated carrier fluid are usable with the disclosure exemplary implementations herein and for those Materials which do not require the application of heat to provide Material in an inhalable form no power supply or controller for heating would be necessary.

FIG. 13 is an assembly view of a body with power supply and controller mating to a cartridge and a deformable vapor (carrier fluid) barrier. FIG. 14A is a top view of the deformable vapor barrier. FIG. 14B is a front view of FIG. 13 assembled. FIG. 14C is a side view of FIG. 13 assembled. FIG. 14D is a cut-away view along the line “A”-“A” of FIG. 13. FIG. 14E is a cut-away view along the line “B”-“B” of FIG. 13. The squeeze vapor (carrier fluid) barrier disclosed herein as an extension or portion of the tip is deformable from a first at rest position to a second temporarily open position wherein a fluid pathway through the tip is opened. The deformability is the resistance to change, or indentation sometimes measured in durometers. The pressure required to open said pathway is predetermined to exceed that of what at least 90% of five-year children can apply. Most preferable to exceed a pressure that at least 95% of five-year children can apply.

The method and device teach a cartridge 100 configured to mate with or affix to a body with a power supply and controller. The cartridge has a fluid vapor (carrier fluid) pathway 115. The child safety vapor (carrier fluid) barrier 1520 (also referred to as a soft tip) has a vapor inlet/pathway through its distal end 120 which fluidly connects with the vapor pathway(s) 115 from a cartridge 100. Within the child safety barrier is formed a first half pathway 1512 fluidly connected to a second half pathway 1514 via a deformable valve 1515. The second half pathway is fluidly connected to an inhalation the top (also called and open top) 1523 forming an inhalation outlet. The deformable valve 1515 is configured to open and close in response to pressure which deforms the barrier and opens the valve. The deformable vapor (carrier fluid) barrier 1520 is at rest in a first position which is closed or blocking fluid flow. The at rest which may be referred to as a sealed state. Operation of the valve is accomplished by exerting sufficient pressure on the child safety vapor barrier to open the valve. The vapor has a body 1521 surrounding an open top end 1523, an open bottom end 1525 and flexible or deformable side walls 1526 and front and back walls 1527, which form an annular inner wall 1530 surrounding the first half pathway 1512 and the second half pathway 1514 separated by the valve 1515 which is a pliable silicone or soft rubber-like material forming at least a portion of the deformable vapor barrier. The skilled artisan and those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the vapor barrier is a pliable device described above, and the pliable device may be a portion of or connected to a cartridge. Near the open bottom 1525 of the deformable vapor barrier a first interface 1532 is formed and configured to mate with a second interface 175 on the portable vapor producing device, which may be a self-contained disposable type device or a device with a replaceable cartridge and it may include a cap 1800 (see FIG. 25A) attached to the cartridge) or device. The attachment may be permanent or temporary but, in all instances, the first and second interface are configured to attach whereby a force greater than that which can be applied by at least 90% of five-year children. Most preferable to exceed a force that at least 95% of five-year children can apply. The interfaces may be pressure fit, friction fit, sonic welded, glued, co-molded or otherwise fixed. Those of ordinary sill in the art will recognize that the deformable vapor barrier may also be formed as an integral part of a tip on a cartridge without an interface and such an embodiment is within the scope of this disclosure.

Within deformable vapor barrier is formed a first half pathway 1512 fluidly connected to a second half pathway 1514 via a deformable valve 1515 separating the half pathways. The second half pathway is fluidly connected to an inhalation outlet through the open top 1523. The deformable valve 1515 is configured to open and close in response to pressure which deforms the soft tip and opens the valve. The deformable vapor barrier is normally (when no pressure is applied) in a first at rest and closed/blocking state which may be referred to as a sealed state. Operation of the valve is accomplished by exerting sufficient pressure on the side wall(s) of the deformable vapor barrier via squeezing. A predetermined squeeze force deforms the deformable vapor barrier into the second state with the valve 1515 temporarily open thereby allowing vapor produced by a cartridge fluidly connected to the deformable vapor barrier to flow through the first and second half pathways. To provide child protection the predetermined force is a force that is at least too great for at least ninety percent of five-year-old to overcome. More preferably the predetermined force is a force that is too great for at least ninety-five percent of five-year-old to overcome. In some instances, the valve may have two half sections 1535A and 1535B extending from the inner annular wall 1530.

FIG. 15A illustrates a front view of the deformable vapor (carrier fluid) barrier of FIG. 13 with the flexible side walls 1526 squeezed thereby displacing the flexible side walls 1526′. FIG. 15B is a cutaway view along line “C”-“C” of FIG. 15A. Showing the displaced front and back walls 1527′ caused by moving the deformable vapor barrier from the first position to the second position and opening the valve 1515 by separating the two half sections. Stiffening regions 1540 are areas which may be adjusted in thickness to increase the pressure needed to open the valve. FIG. 15C shows the valve 1515 open from a top view. Valve forming regions 1541 are configurable during manufacturing to select a desired valve length. The adjustment of the valve opening can be used to adjust the force needed to open the valve 1515. If the valve opening is at “L1” there is less front and back wall to displace adjacent to the valve opening and greater force is needed to open the valve. If the opening is set a “L2” the force required to open is less than a length of opening of “L1” because there is more front and back wall to displace. FIG. 15D illustrates optional stiffening regions. By changing the thickness of stiffening regions 1540 additional adjustments can be made to preselect the desired force needed to open the valve into the second position. FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate exterior regions 1542 for stiffening of the child safety vapor (carrier fluid) barrier.

FIG. 17A illustrate a top view of a deformable child safety vapor (carrier fluid) barrier attachable to an inhalable fluid dispensing device and configured with an internal scaffold.

FIG. 17B illustrate a deformable child safety vapor barrier for an inhalable fluid dispensing device configured with an internal torque limiting structure (also referred to as an internal flexible scaffold 1550) in a first position cut-away along the lines of arrow “D”-“D”. FIG. 17C illustrate a deformable child safety vapor (carrier fluid) barrier for an inhalable fluid dispensing device with internal flexible scaffold 1550 in a first position, cut-away along the lines of arrow “E”-“E”. Inside the first half pathway 1512 is illustrated as an internal flexible scaffold 1550. The skilled artisan will recognize that placing said flexible scaffold 1550 in the second half pathway 1514 is within the scope of the disclosure. The flexible scaffold is a base 1552 which fits snuggly into the half pathway. Two legs 1555 extend upward from the base connected at one end and with a free (unconnected) end 1556. A bridge 1557 is connected to each leg below the free end 1556. The bridge is shaped to direct it to bend when sufficient force is applied to the legs and open the valve. FIGS. 18A-18C illustrate the internal flexible scaffold 1550 in a second position when force has been applied to the side walls of the deformable child safety vapor barrier. In the second position the valve 1515 is open to provide a fluid pathway for vapor. The force required to open said pathway is predetermined to and one of exceed a force that at least 85% of five-year children can apply, at least 90% of five-year children can apply and at least 95% of five-year children can apply.

FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate a deformable child safety fluid barrier for an inhalable fluid dispensing device with external torque limiting structure in a first position.

FIG. 19A illustrate a top view of the deformable child safety vapor (carrier fluid) barrier for an inhalable fluid dispensing device with an external force limiting fixture.

FIG. 19B illustrate aspects of the deformable child safety vapor (carrier fluid) barrier for an inhalable fluid dispensing device with external force limiting fixture 1560 in a first position cut-away along the lines of arrow “F”-“F”.

FIG. 19C illustrate a deformable child safety vapor barrier (carrier fluid) for an inhalable fluid dispensing device with external force limiting fixture 1560 in a first position, cut-away along the lines of arrow “G”-“G”. The external force limiting fixture 1560 has an interface end 1562 configured to mate with a second interface 175 on the cartridge or device. The external force limiting fixture has a second free end 1564 configured to move when sufficient force is applied.

FIGS. 20A-20C illustrate the external force limiting fixture 1560 in a second position wherein force has been applied to it and the side walls of the deformable child safety vapor (carrier fluid) barrier. In the second position the valve 1515 is open to provide a fluid pathway for fluid. The force required to open said pathway is predetermined to and one of exceed a force that at least 85% of five-year children can apply, at least 90% of five-year children can apply and at least 95% of five-year children can apply.

FIGS. 21A-21E illustrate a turn valve tamper proof tip and a sequence of opening a fluid pathway in the tip. The device and method include a method of selective blocking and unblocking fluid flow through a tip. The stem valve disclosed herein is a rotatable fixture configured to twist under a predetermined torque whereby one or more rotation limiting fixtures on the side edge of the cartridge 1605 prevent opening the fluid pathway through the tip unless adequate torque is supplied. For a heated source of inhalable fluid, a vaporizer cartridge 100 which is configured to mate with a power supply has a first end 102 with a vapor pathway 115 fluidly connected to a tip connection 118. The tip 1600 has a vapor/fluid outlet 130 through its distal end 120 which fluidly connects with the fluid pathway 115.

The tip 1600 has a body 1601 and a series of fluid connections therein. At a proximal end 1602 a terminal outlet 1604 is configured which is fluidly connected to a valved pathway 1603. On a portion of the outer annular wall 1605 of the tip at least one fixture forming a force limiting rib (FLR) 1606 is formed. Each FLR is a shaped plastic with adequate memory to flex and return to there at rest position thereafter. The flexible protruding rib(s) has shaped extended arms 1608 configured to require a predetermined amount of force to bend. The FLRs are positioned adjacent to a valve stem guide 1610. The valve stem 1620 is configured to mate with the stem guide in a rotatable fashion. The interface of the valve stem to the stem guide should be snug whereby the valve stem can rotate but will also block the valved pathway 1603 when in the closed position. At the distal end 120 of the tip a vapor pathway/fluid outlet is connected to the terminal outlet 1604. The valve stem 1620 has an elongated body 1621, a stem proximal head 1622, a distal stem end 1624, and a valve connect 1625 configured to mate within the stem guide and block the fluid pathway in a first configuration and unblock the fluid pathway in a second configuration. In the first configuration the valve connect is closed and perpendicular to the valved pathway 1003. In the second or open configuration the valve connect is aligned with the valved connect thereby allowing vapor flow.

In operation a user grasps the stem proximal head 1622 which, in the first configuration is closed, and exerts sufficient torque on the valve stem to rotate the proximal head past the FLR extended arms 1608 (which are flexible and will, under sufficient force, bend to allow passage of the proximal head). The twisting aligns the valve connect to the second thereby allowing vapor to flow through the valved pathway. Closing the valved pathway is achieved by reversing the above process/method of operation wherein the stem proximal head can be turned past the FLR be a predetermined amount of rotational force or torque.

The predetermined force to overcome the arm of the FLR is at least a force that is too great for at least ninety percent of five-year-old to overcome. More preferably the predetermined force is a force that is too great for at least ninety-five percent of five-year-old to overcome.

FIGS. 22A-22D and 23A-23B show aspects of illustrate axially extending latches on a child safe fluid barrier which are configured to engage with catches on a tip to limit upward movement of the fluid barrier and/or unintended usage of an inhalable fluid dispensing device. The active catches are sloped to drive the barrier back towards a blocking position in the absence of necessary force to lift the barrier and unblock. The force necessary is fixed at a predetermined amount. In some instance the force required to move the barrier upward to open the pathway for vapor is a force that exceeds the force that at least 80% of 5-year-old children can exert. More preferable exceeds the force that at least 90% of 5-year-old children can exert and most preferably exceeds the force that at least 95% of 5-year-old children can exert. When the force holding the fluid barrier above the tip is released the sloped catches cooperate with the flexible legs to move the barrier downward over the tip and block the fluid pathway. The tip and fluid barrier are configured so that at rest the fluid pathway s blocked.

FIGS. 22A-22D and 23A-23B illustrate extending latches on a barrier which are configured to engage catches on a tip to limit movement of the vapor barrier and/or unintended usage of an inhalable fluid dispensing device. A tip 1700 is configured to movably mate with a fluid barrier cap 1750. The tip 1700 is configured with at least one fluid outlet 130 formed therethrough. The tip has a proximal end 1702 with a terminal outlet 113 and a distal end 1704. The distal end 1704 is configured to mate with the tip connection a cartridge 100 forming a fluid pathway from the cartridge's fluid pathway 115 to the tip's outlet 130. The fluid barrier 1750 is a generally hollow body 1751 and a top 1752 formed as part of the fluid barrier. The top 1752 partially covers the proximal end 1753 of the body and is configured to partially sealing the top 1752 at distal end 1754 is opposite the top. The hollow body 1751 forms a vapor flow guide (VFG) 560 wherein vapor from an unblocked terminal outlet 113 will flow. The VFG terminates into at least one inhalation port 561 and 561′ which form inhalation outlet(s) whereby vapor can flow along the line 1050. Inside the barrier cap is at least one plunger 570. The plunger is an extended leg which is configured to block the terminal outlet 113 when moved into same. At the end of the plunger is a shaped plunger tip 572 that is configured to reversibly block said terminal outlet 113.

The fluid barrier 1750 is configured to cooperate with the tip 1700 to facilitate limited movement of the barrier axially along the tip. Said movement requires a force that exceeds the force at least 80% of 5-year-old children can exert. More preferable exceeds the force 90% of 5-year-old children can exert and most preferably exceeds the force at least 95% of 5-year-old children can exert.

CAP MOVEMENT

From the distal end of the barrier extend at least one moving latch wall 555 is separated by a vertical flex guide 567. Each moving latch wall 556 and finger latch 558 is configured to face the center of said barrier. The depiction of the flexible finger as a small area of the distal end of the cap is not a limitation and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the range of flexible fingers or wall sections may be a larger or smaller. The choice of material may impact the finger dimensions to achieve a predetermined latching force. Flexible finger and latch are configured to reversible latch into catches formed on the tip. A section of the wall forms a moving latch wall 555, supporting a finger latch 558, which is configured to bend without breaking if sufficient force is applied to the flexible finger latch. That moving latch wall 555 is configured to act as a living hinge, it may be thinner or thicker than other portions of the cap, it may have ribs, grooves, or other surface features to create a predetermined flexure to require a predetermined force to displace. In some instances, the moving latch wall and regions distance from the free end 559 of the moving latch wall 555 cooperate to limit finger latch 558 movement to correspond to a predetermined amount of force being applied. The sloped catch 1715 is an annular catch shaped to have a smaller cross-sectional diameter near the distal end 1704 and a larger cross-sectional diameter near the proximal end 1702 of the tip. One or more optional stops 1720 may be formed to limit removal of the barrier, such optional stops may be formed in the tip to limit upward movement of the fluid barrier via blocking the flat top 1760 of the finger latch 558. Said stop should not limit downward movement.

In operation the finger latch 558 and flexible finger 555 are shaped whereby at rest they are straight and not curved or splayed outward. The sloped catch 1715 is configured to require the flexible fingers 555 to distort and splay outward to overcome the increasing cross-sectional diameter as the barrier is moved upward away from the distal end of the tip along the line of arrow 1790. The displacement requires a predetermined force to be overcome. When the barrier is moved upward by applying sufficient force the plunger 570 and plunger tip 572 inside the barrier cooperatively move along the same line as the fluid barrier relative to the tip the lifted plunger no longer blocks the terminal outlet.

Accordingly, fluid can flow through the vapor flow guide (VFG) and exit the fluid barrier via the at least one inhalation ports 561/561′. When the force lifting the barrier is reduced to below the threshold to raise the barrier, the sloped catch urges the cap downward towards the distal end of the tip.

Prior movable tips required one or more catches to cooperate to place the barrier into an open position allowing vapor flow and hold the fluid barrier in a blocked position. The instant disclosure urges the fluid barrier into a closed position if the fluid barrier is released. FIG. 22C shows the closed or blocked at rest first position and FIG. 22D shows the open fluid flow second position when the flexible fingers are displaced.

In some instances, the vapor barrier cap may be disposable as is the cartridge—the action of the flexible finger cooperating with the sloped catch and should provide for at least the number of use cycles said cartridge can supply. A use cycle is generally the number of consumer uses of the device. Generally speaking, at least 60 movements between catch one and catch two (a cycle) for a 1 ml cartridge would be expected. More preferable at least 70 cycles, most preferable at least 90 cycles.

FIGS. 23A and 23B illustrate aspects of another sloped catch 1715 on a tip 1700. An interface 1775 is formed through the fluid barrier body the interface is configured to receive a stop 1725 extending from the tip body. FIG. 24 illustrates and exemplar wherein the interface 1775 is formed on the tip and the stop 1725 extends inward from the barrier.

The child safety the fluid barrier may be permanently affixed to the tip. In other instance the fluid barrier mounting to the cartridge, or tip is configured such that the force required to separate the fluid barrier from the device exceeds the force at least 80% of 5-year-old children can exert. More preferable exceeds the force 90% of 5-year-old children can exert and most preferably exceeds the force at least 95% of 5-year-old children can exert.

FIGS. 25A-25C illustrate an inhalable fluid dispensing device without safety tip/fluid barrier. In some instance a cartridge 100′ is configured with latches 104 extending outward from the cartridge to capture a cover 1800 and hold it onto the cartridge 100 via at least one catch 106 through the cap 1800. FIGS. 25B and 25C show orthogonal cut-away view of the cartridge including outlets which are configured to fluidly connect to fluid pathway 115 via the cap outlet interface 1802. Half-outlets 1804A and 1804B are formed through the top 1801 of the caps and are fluidly connected to the cap outlet interface 1802.

FIGS. 26A-26D illustrate an inhalable fluid dispensing device with a child safety cap in a first position. FIG. 26A is a to view of a child safety fluid barrier 1850 over a cartridge 101′. The fluid barrier has a top 1850′, barrier outlet 1851, front side 1852, a back side 1853 and two opposing sides 1854.

FIG. 26B is a front view FIG. 26A showing the force limiting leg 555.

FIG. 26C is side view of FIG. 26A the movement range of the force limiting leg 555 from a second extended position to the first at rest position is shown. A catch is formed in the cartridge or cartridge 101′ or cap 1800. FIG. 26D shows a cutaway view along the line “H”-“H” showing the latch 1855 showing within the catch 1810. The catch has an upper limit 1812. When the vapor barrier 1850 is at rest the restrictive regions 1862 of the inner wall 1861 of the vapor barrier block the fluid flow from each of the half-outlets 1804A and 1804B to the fluid barrier outlet 1851. FIG. 26E illustrates aspects of an unheated carrier fluid 410 in a reservoir 401 of an inhalable fluid dispensing device for Material affixed to the fluid barrier 1850 configured with a Material fluid pathway 402 to dispense Material in a fluid when said fluid barrier is sealed.

FIGS. 27A-27C shows the fluid barrier 1850 in a second position which requires force to maintain but is also configured to allow fluid connection from half-outlet 1804A/B and the barrier outlet 1851 for inhalation. FIG. 27A is a side view of the safety fluid barrier 1850 in the second position wherein the latch 1855 is at the upper limit 1812 of the catch. FIGS. 27A and 27B illustrate displacing the top 1850′ of the fluid barrier 1850 relative to the top 1801 of the caps fluidly connects the half-outlets by moving the restrictive regions 1862 of the inner wall apart from the half-outlets allowing vapor flow 1050. FIG. 27B is a cut-away view along line “H-” H″ of FIG. 26A. When the fluid barrier is displaced, the force limiting legs 555 are also displaced and such displacement requires continued force to be applied, or the fluid barrier will move to the at rest first position. FIG. 27C is FIG. 27B is a cut-away view along line “I-“I” of FIG. 26A and it shows a moving wall latch 556 force limiting legs The fluid barrier 1850 is configured to cooperate with the cartridge 101″ and/or the cap 1800 to facilitate limited movement of the fluid barrier 1850 axially along the cartridge. Said movement requires a force that exceeds the force at least 80% of 5-year-old children can exert. More preferable exceeds the force 90% of 5-year-old children can exert and most preferably exceeds the force at least 95% of 5-year-old children can exert. Additionally, for child safety the fluid barrier may be permanently affixed to the cap. In other instance the fluid barrier mounting to the cartridge, or cap is configured such that the force required to separate the vapor barrier from the device exceeds the force at least 80% of 5-year-old children can exert. More preferable exceeds the force 90% of 5-year-old children can exert and most preferably exceeds the force at least 95% of 5-year-old children can exert.

FIG. 27D illustrates aspects of an unheated carrier fluid 410 in a reservoir 401 of an inhalable fluid dispensing device for Material affixed to the fluid barrier 1850 shown in the second position to unblock fluid flow from the Material fluid pathway 402 to dispense Material in a fluid through said barrier.

CAP MOVEMENT

From the distal end of the barrier extend at least one moving latch wall 555 separated by a vertical flex guide 567. Each moving latch wall 555 and finger latch 558 is configured to face the center of said vapor barrier. The depiction of the flexible finger as a small area of the end of the barrier is not a limitation and those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the size and number of flexible fingers or wall sections may be a larger or smaller. The choice of material the properties such as durometers may impact the finger dimensions to achieve a predetermined force form a selected material. The moving latch wall 555 is configured to act as a living hinge, it may be thinner or thicker than other portions of the barrier, it may have ribs, grooves, or other surface features to create a predetermined flexure to require a predetermined force to temporarily displace the vapor barrier to the open second position. The sloped catch 1715 is an annular catch shaped to have a smaller cross sectional near the bottom of the catch 1717 and a larger cross-sectional diameter near the top 1801 of the cap.

In operation the finger latch 558 and flexible wall 555 are shaped whereby at rest they are straight and not curved or splayed outward. The sloped catch 1715 is configured to require the application of an axially force to move the finger latch up the sloped catch which causes the flexible wall 555 to distort and splay outward to overcome the increasing cross-sectional diameter of the sloped catch as the vapor barrier is moved away from the distal end of the cap 1801′. The displacement requires a predetermined force to be overcome. When the barrier is moved upward by applying sufficient force the restrictive regions 1862 inner wall 1861 of the vapor barrier no longer blocks the half-outlets 1804A/B. Accordingly, vapor can flow through the vapor barrier and exit the barrier via the half-outlets 1804A/B. When the force lifting the vapor barrier is reduced to below the threshold to raise the barrier, the flexible wall will return to the first at rest position as the displace the finger latch 558 and flexible wall are urged downward towards bottom of the catch 1717.

In some instances, the vapor barrier cap may be disposable as is the cartridge—the action of the flexible wall cooperating with the sloped catch and should provide for at least the number of use cycles said cartridge can supply. A use cycle is generally the number of consumer inhalation or uses of the cartridge.

FIG. 28 illustrates a side view of a child safety fluid barrier and tip combination wherein the fluid barrier is rotated to a second open position from a first at rest position by applying a preselected force and the fluid barrier to unblock a fluid pathway. When the force is removed the fluid barrier (also described as a barrier and vapor barrier) will rotate back to the first at rest closed position. The tip 1901 is partially covered with the fluid barrier 1950. The combined tip and vapor barrier are fluidly connected to the cartridge by way of a safety tip connection 1920 which affixes the tip. The barrier is rotatably affixed to said tip.

FIGS. 29A-29C illustrate the top, bottom and side of the tip 1901 shown in FIG. 28. The tip has an outer body 1905, a first side of the top 1908 with one or more apertures 1912A and 1912B forming fluid passages therethrough. Along the outer body wall 1905 of the tip is formed a linear catch 1910. At the bottom region of the tip 1911 is a fluid barrier first interface 1915. The second side of the top 1925 is shown in FIG. 29C and the inner annular wall 1906 of the tip body forms the fluid pathway from the fluid pathway 115 of the cartridge 100.

FIGS. 30A-30C illustrate illustrates the top, bottom and side of the fluid barrier 1950 shown in FIG. 28. The fluid barrier 1950 has a first side of the top 1952 with one or more barrier apertures 1960A and 1960B configured to align with the apertures 1912A and 1912B of the tip.

Along the fluid barrier outer wall 1951 is formed one or more torque control legs 1975. Each leg has a free torque limiting end 1977 and is attached to the flexible shaft 1979 of the torque control leg 1975. A second half interface 1980 is formed near the bottom of the fluid barrier 1981 which is a mount to the tip configured to allow rotational movement around the tip limited by the torque control leg(s). Those of ordinary skill in the art and the skilled artisan will understand that variation in the number, size and location of torque limiting control members are within the scope of the disclosure.

In operation the vapor barrier 1950 when mounted to the tip is mounted at the first and second half interfaces (1950/1980) and the mounting allows for rotational movement. However, the mounting is also configured such that force required to separate the vapor barrier from the tip exceeds the force at least 80% of 5-year-old children can exert. More preferable exceeds the force 90% of 5-year-old children can exert and most preferably exceeds the force at least 95% of 5-year-old children can exert.

FIGS. 31A-31C illustrates a sequential rotational movement of a fluid barrier 1950 around tip 1901 to expose the apertures 1912A and 1912B by away of align the barrier apertures 1960A and 1960B. Alignment is achieved by moving the barrier from the first at rest position in which the apertures 1960A and 1960B are blocked to the second use position that places the barrier apertures at least partially over the vapor apertures to allow fluid flow. The rotational force requires to rotate the fluid barrier to the second position by way of displacing the torque control leg(s) 1975 is at least greater than the force 80% of 5-year-old children can apply. More preferable it exceeds the force that 90% of 5-year-old children can apply and most preferably exceeds the force that 95% of 5-year children can apply. When the force is removed the vapor barrier returns to the at rest position by way of the toque control legs.

It will be understood that various aspects or details of the disclosures may be changed combined or removed without departing from the scope of the invention. It is not exhaustive and does not limit the claimed inventions to the precise form disclosed. Furthermore, the foregoing description is for the purpose of illustration only, and not for the purpose of limitation. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above description or may be acquired from practicing the invention. The claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.