Patent ID: 6425392
Filing Date: 2002-07-30
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
A breath-activated apparatus that can be used by asthmatics during an asthmatic attack comprising:a medication disposed in a medication holding canister; a microprocessor chip and a power source disposed on the canister for powering activation of the apparatus, and for collecting and recording information concerning dosage in the canister; an airflow sensor in a first air channel for sensing inhalation from a user with inhibited inspiratory flow, the sensor having a resistor that drops in resistance when airflow passes over the sensor such that the sensor has sufficient sensitivity to detect inhalation and actuate the apparatus independent of the amount of airflow inhaled that passes over the sensor; a mouth piece for delivering the medication, the mouth piece is in communication with a flow sensor and the first air channel, such that the first air channel provides an unimpeded air flow path over the airflow sensor; and a second air channel in communication with the medication such that the second air channel is opened only during dispensing of the medication to assist in air-mixing the medication.