Patent ID: 7878194
Filing Date: 2011-02-01
Classification: A61M,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An inhaler, comprising: a flow path wall defining a flow path through which airflow moves, having first and second air inhalation openings for introducing external air from outside to said flow path; an atomizing portion provided in said flow path, for atomizing liquid reserved in a reservoir; a conveying portion conveying an air flow containing aerosol generated at said atomizing portion to the outside; an air inhalation valve attached to said flow path wall at a portion where said first air inhalation opening is provided, for opening/closing said first air inhalation opening utilizing pressure difference between said flow path and the outside; and a shielding section capable of selectively shielding either one of said first and second air inhalation openings; wherein said inhaler is structured switchable between a first state in which said second air inhalation opening is closed by said shielding section allowing introduction of external air through said first air inhalation opening utilizing said pressure difference, and a second state in which said first air inhalation opening is closed by said shielding section and communication between said flow path and the outside through said second air inhalation opening is always maintained.