Patent Publication Number: US-11642476-B2

Title: Nebulizer

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/942,737, accorded a filing date of Apr. 2, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/453,805, accorded a filing date of Aug. 7, 2014 (issued U.S. Pat. No. 10,004,857 on Jun. 26, 2018), which claims priority to EP Application No. 13003987.8, filed Aug. 9, 2013, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present invention relates to a nebulizer for nebulizing a fluid. 
     WO 2006/125577 A2 discloses a nebulizer which comprises, as a reservoir for fluid which is to be atomized or nebulized, an insertable rigid container having an inner bag containing the fluid and a pressure generator with a drive spring for delivering and atomizing the fluid. The container is pre-installed in nebulizer in a delivery state. The pre-installed container is held by a transportation lock unmovable within the housing in the delivery state in order to avoid any undesired opening of the container. Before being used for the first time a lower housing part of the nebulizer is completely closed. Thus, the pre-installed container is opened by a delivery tube piercing a sealing and a septum to fluidically connect to the inner bag of the container. Further, the transportation lock is opened so that the container can move inside the nebulizer back and forth. 
     By rotating the lower housing part the drive spring can be put under tension and fluid can be sucked into a compression chamber of the pressure generator. Simultaneously, the container is moved into the lower housing part in a stroke movement within the nebulizer and when tensioned for the first time the container may be pierced through its base by a piercing element in the lower housing part to allow venting of the container. After manual operation of a stop element the drive spring is released and moves the delivery tube into the pressure chamber so that the fluid is put under pressure by the drive spring and is delivered or atomized through a nozzle into a mouthpiece as an aerosol, without the use of propellant gas. 
     WO 2007/022898 A2, US 2011/0011393 A1, and WO 2012/162305 A1 disclose a similar nebulizer. A container can be inserted into a housing of the nebulizer. The housing is closed by a lower housing part. The container is moving axially forth and back during conveying of the fluid to be nebulized, and during pressure generation and nebulization. A counter device can be arranged in the lower housing part. The counter device locks the nebulizer against further use if a predetermined number of operations has been reached or exceeded. Then, the housing part may be replaced together with the counter device and the container. The container may be connected inseparably with the housing part. Further, the nebulizer comprises a device for permanently locking the nebulizer when a certain number of containers have been used or when a certain number of operations have been reached. 
     SUMMARY 
     Object of the present invention is to provide a nebulizer allowing easy and/or improved handling and/or secure or defined indication of handling and state. 
     According to one aspect of the present invention, the nebulizer comprises preferably a blocking device which is adapted to block opening of the housing, when the nebulizer or, in particular, its energy store is in a tensioned state (In this tensioned state, the nebulizer is in a loaded state, i.e. in a ready-to-discharge state, in particular in a state in which a dose of fluid is dispensed or discharged upon the actuation of a stop element). Preferably, the housing can only be opened if the nebulizer is in an untensioned state or discharged state. This allows or ensures secure handling and/or a defined position of the preferably moveable container when opening the nebulizer and/or replacing the container. 
     According to another aspect of the present invention, the nebulizer comprises preferably a blocking device, preferably the blocking device mentioned above, adapted to block indexing (i.e. the step-wise movement) of an indicator member, when the nebulizer or its energy store is in a tensioned state. This allows or ensures easy and/or improved handling and/or secure or defined indication of handling and state, in particular when the indicator member shows a required container replacement only when the nebulizer or its energy store is not in a tensioned state, i.e. preferably after relaxing the energy store or a drive spring of the nebulizer. 
     Preferably, the indicator member shows numbers and/or symbols, in particular indicating any required steps such as container replacement, closing of the housing, or the like. 
     Preferably, the blocking device controls blocking of opening of the housing by means of the indicator member, in particular by blocking required indexing of the indicator member. 
     Preferably, the blocking device blocks indexing of the indicator member in the tensioned state. The indicator member, in turn, blocks preferably opening of the housing in the tensioned state. Thus, the blocking device preferably indirectly (in particular by means of the indicator member and/or control member) controls or blocks opening of the housing and/or locks the nebulizer or housing part selectively against opening. 
     Preferably, the nebulizer comprises a counter device for counting pressurizing and/or dispensing operations of the nebulizer and a guidance device which comprises the indicator member and/or control member. In particular, an actuation part of the counter device cooperates with the guidance device when a predetermined number of pressurizing and/or dispensing operations have been reached or exceeded with the current container. Thus, the guidance device can indicate a required container replacement and/or enable the opening of the housing when a container has to be replaced. 
     The control of opening of the nebulizer via the indicator member allows a simple integration of the blocking device and/or results in a well defined indication of the necessary steps to a user and/or allows a secure handling for the user. 
     According to a further aspect of the present invention, the nebulizer comprises preferably an indicator device for indicating a tensioned state of the nebulizer or its energy store. This allows visualization of the status (tensioned or not tensioned) and facilitates handling of the nebulizer. 
     According to another aspect of the present invention, the nebulizer comprises preferably a manually depressable actuator member at a housing part, wherein the housing part is detachable together with the actuator member from the housing of the nebulizer for replacing the container when the actuator member is depressed. This facilitates the handling in particular because the user can detach the housing part together with the still depressed actuator member from the nebulizer and does not have to leave the actuator member at the nebulizer. 
     Preferably, the actuator member is or forms a push button. This allows very easy and intuitive manual actuation. 
     The actuator member or push button acts preferably on a retaining element arranged on or at the nebulizer non-detachable. Thus, the housing part is detached from the retaining elements as well when the housing part is detached from the nebulizer. 
     The retaining element forms preferably a catch or snap for preferably automatically holding or securing the housing part when it is shifted onto or into the nebulizer, most preferably with two catch positions, i.e. a first catch position with partly closed housing part or housing of the nebulizer and a second catch position with completely closed housing part or housing. 
     Preferably, the retaining element is blocked against release when the blocking device or indicator member blocks release of the retaining element. In particular, the blocking device or indicator member may block the retaining element against depression and, thus, against release (in this case, the retaining element cannot be depressed and, thus, the actuator member or push button can neither be depressed), in particular when a predetermined number of doses of fluid have not yet been dispensed from the current container, the nebulizer is still tensioned and/or a further container replacement is not allowed. 
     The above aspects of the present invention and the further aspect described below can be realized independently from each other, and in any combination. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further advantages, features, characteristics and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of a preferred embodiment with reference to the drawings. It shows: 
         FIG.  1    a schematic section of a known nebulizer in a non-tensioned state; 
         FIG.  2    a schematic section, rotated 90° compared with  FIG.  1   , of the known nebulizer in a tensioned state; 
         FIG.  3    a schematic section of a nebulizer in a delivery state with a partly closed housing and with a pre-installed, closed container; 
         FIG.  4    a schematic section of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  3    in an activated, tensioned state with completely closed housing and with opened container; 
         FIG.  5    a schematic section of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  4    in a non-tensioned state; 
         FIG.  6    a schematic perspective view of a nebulizer according to the present invention with a separate housing part shown with a partly cut-away portion, the housing part having a securing device holding unmoveably a container of the nebulizer; 
         FIG.  7    a schematic section of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  8    a schematic side view of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  6    with partly mounted housing part and with some cut-away portions, the container being held unmoveably; 
         FIG.  9    a schematic section of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  6    in the completely closed state with opened securing device so that the container can move axially; 
         FIG.  10    a schematic section of the housing part with the associated container after use or separation from the nebulizer; 
         FIG.  11    a perspective view of an upper part of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  6    without the housing part and with partly cut-away portions; 
         FIG.  12    a side view of a control/indicator member of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  13    a perspective view of the control/indicator member according to  FIG.  12   ; 
         FIG.  14    a perspective side view of a lock member of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  6   ; 
         FIG.  15    another perspective view of the lock member according to  FIG.  14   ; 
         FIG.  16    a partial schematic section of the nebulizer with a blocking device according to the present invention; 
         FIG.  17    a partial axial section of the area of  FIG.  16    showing the blocking of an indicator member or control member by the blocking device; 
         FIG.  18    a perspective view of the blocking device; 
         FIG.  19    another perspective view of the blocking device; 
         FIG.  20    a schematic section of an upper part of the nebulizer with an indicator device according to the present invention in a first position; 
         FIG.  21    a schematic section similar to  FIG.  20    with the indicator device in a second position; 
         FIG.  22    a schematic section of the nebulizer according to the present invention with detached housing part comprising a depressable actuator member; 
         FIG.  23    a schematic section of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  22    with partly attached housing part; 
         FIG.  24    a schematic section of the nebulizer according to  FIG.  22    with completely attached housing part or completely housing; and 
         FIG.  25    a partial enlarged view of the encircled area of  FIG.  24   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the Figures, the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar parts, resulting preferably in corresponding or comparable properties and advantages, even if the associated description is not repeated. 
       FIGS.  1  and  2    show a known nebulizer  1  for atomizing a fluid  2 , particularly a highly effective pharmaceutical composition, medicament or the like, diagrammatically shown in a non-tensioned state ( FIG.  1   ) and in a tensioned state ( FIG.  2   ). The nebulizer  1  is constructed in particular as a portable inhaler and preferably operates only mechanical and/or without propellant gas. 
     When the fluid  2 , preferably a liquid, more particularly a pharmaceutical composition, is nebulized, an aerosol  14  ( FIG.  1   ) is formed, which can be breathed in or inhaled by a user. Usually the inhaling is done at least once a day, more particularly several times a day, preferably at set intervals, depending on the complaint or illness from which a patient is suffering. 
     The nebulizer  1  is provided with or comprises an insertable or replaceable container  3  containing the fluid  2 . The container  3  thus forms a reservoir for the fluid  2 , which is to be nebulized. Preferably, the container  3  contains multiple doses of fluid  2  or active substance in particular sufficient to provide up to 200 dosage units or doses, for example, i.e. to allow up to 200 sprays or applications. A typical container  3 , as disclosed in WO 96/06011 A1, holds e.g. a volume of about 2 to 20 ml. 
     It has to be noted that the dose can vary, in particular depending on the fluid  2  or medicament. The nebulizer  1  can be adapted respectively. 
     Further, the number of doses contained in the container  3  and/or the total volume of the fluid  2  contained in the container  3  can vary depending on the fluid  2  or respective medicament and/or depending on the container  3  and/or depending on the necessary medication or the like. 
     Preferably, the container  3  can be replaced or exchanged, wherein the number of containers  3 , which can be used with the same nebulizer  1 , is preferably restricted, e.g. to a total number of four or five containers  3 . 
     The container  3  is preferably substantially cylindrical or cartridge-shaped and once the nebulizer  1  has been opened the container  3  can be inserted therein preferably from below and changed if desired. It is preferably of rigid construction, the fluid  2  in particular being held in a collapsible bag  4  in the container  3 . In particular, the container  3  comprises a venting hole  31  which is opened before or during first use. 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises a delivery mechanism, preferably a pressure generator  5 , for conveying and nebulizing the fluid  2 , particularly in a preset and optionally in an adjustable dosage amount. The nebulizer or pressure generator  5  comprises preferably a holder  6  for releasably holding the container  3 , a drive spring  7  associated to the holder  6 , only partly shown, and/or a stop element  8  preferably in form of or with a button for preferably manual actuation or depressing, which stop element  8  can catch and block the holder  6  and can be manually operated to release the holder  6  allowing drive spring  7  to expand. The nebulizer  1  or pressure generator  5  comprises preferably further a conveying element, such as a conveying tube  9 , a non-return valve  10 , a pressure chamber  11  and/or a nozzle  12  for nebulizing the fluid  2  into a mouthpiece  13 . The completely inserted container  3  is fixed or held in the nebulizer  1  via the holder  6  such that the conveying tube  9  penetrates into the container  3 . The holder  6  is preferably constructed so that the container  3  can be exchanged. 
     When the drive spring  7  is axially tensioned in the tensioning process the holder  6  with the container  3  and the conveying tube  9  are moved downwards in the drawings and fluid  2  is sucked out of the container  3  into the pressure chamber  11  of the pressure generator  5  through the non-return valve  10 . In this state, the holder  6  is caught by the stop element  8  so that the drive spring  7  is kept compressed. Then, the nebulizer  1  is in the so-called loaded or tensioned state. 
     During the subsequent relaxation in the nebulization process after actuation or pressing of the stop element  8  the fluid  2  in the pressure chamber  11  is put under pressure as the conveying tube  9  with its now closed non-return valve  10  is moved back in the pressure chamber  11 , here in the drawings upwards, by the relaxation or force of the drive spring  7  and now acts as a pressing ram or piston. This pressure forces the fluid  2  through the nozzle  12 , whereupon it is nebulized into the aerosol  14 , as shown in  FIG.  1   . 
     Generally, the nebulizer  1  operates with a spring pressure of 5 to 200 MPa, preferably 10 to 100 MPa on the fluid  2 , and/or with a volume of fluid  2  delivered per stroke of 10 to 50 μl, preferably 10 to 20 μl, most preferably about 15 μl. The fluid  2  is converted into or nebulized as aerosol  14 , the droplets of which have an aerodynamic diameter of up to 20 μm, preferably 3 to 10 μm. Preferably, the generated jet spray has an angle of 20° to 160°, preferably 80° to 100°. These values also apply to the nebulizer  1  according to the teaching of the present invention as particularly preferred values. 
     A user or patient (not shown) can inhale the aerosol  14 , preferably while an air supply can be sucked into the mouthpiece  13  through at least one optional air supply opening  15 . 
     Preferably, the drive spring  7  can be manually activated or tensioned (or the nebulizer  1  can be loaded), in particular by actuation of an actuation member. 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably a housing or (upper) housing part  16  and optionally a biasing or inner part  17  preferably which is rotatable relative thereto ( FIG.  2   ) and/or having an upper part  17   a  and a lower part  17   b  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably an in particular manually operable (lower) housing part or cap  18  releasable fixed, particularly fitted or held onto the inner part  17 , preferably by means of a retaining element  19 . 
     Preferably, the housing parts  16  and  18  and/or other parts form a housing of the nebulizer  1 . In order to insert and/or replace the container  3 , preferably the housing can be opened and/or the housing part  18  can be detached from the nebulizer  1  or its housing. Generally and preferably, the container  3  can be inserted before the housing is closed and/or before the housing part  18  is connected to the housing. Preferably, the container  3  is inserted, opened and/or fluidically connected to the delivery mechanism automatically or simultaneously when (completely) connecting the housing part  18  to the housing/nebulizer  1  and/or when (completely) closing the housing/nebulizer  1 . 
     The actuation member, preferably the housing part  18 , can be actuated, here rotated relative to the upper housing part  16 , carrying with it or driving the inner part  17 . As a result the drive spring  7  is tensioned in the axial direction by means of a gear or transmission (not shown) formed between the inner part  17 , in particular its upper part  17   a , and the holder  6  and acting on the holder  6 . During tensioning the container  3  is moved axially downwards until the container  3  assumes an end position as shown in  FIG.  2   . In this activated or tensioned state the drive spring  7  is under tension and can be caught or held by the stop element  8 . During the nebulizing process the container  3  is moved back into its original position (non-tensioned position or state shown in  FIG.  1   ) by the drive spring  7 . Thus the container  3  executes a lifting or stroke movement during the tensioning process and during the nebulizing process. 
     The housing part  18  preferably forms a cap-like lower housing part and fits around or over a lower free end portion of the container  3 . As the drive spring  7  is tensioned the container  3  moves with its end portion (further) into the housing part  18  or towards the end face thereof, while an aeration means, such as an axially acting spring  20  arranged in the housing part  18 , comes in contact with base  21  of the container  3  and pierces the container  3  or a base seal thereon with a piercing element  22  when the container  3  makes contact with it for the first time, to allow air in or aeration. 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably a counter device  23 , which counts in particular actuations of the nebulizer  1 , preferably by detecting its tensioning or the rotation of the inner part  17  relative to the upper part  16  or housing. Preferably, the counter device  23  or an associated lock locks the (further) actuation or use of the nebulizer  1 , e.g. blocks further rotation of the housing part  18 /inner part  17  and, thus, tensioning of the nebulizer  1  or its drive spring  7  and/or blocks actuation of the stop element  8 , when a certain number of actuations or operations or discharged doses has been reached or exceeded. 
     A preferred construction and mode of operation of the inhaler or nebulizer  1  will now be described in more detail with reference to  FIGS.  3  to  5   , but emphasizing only essential differences from the nebulizer  1  according to  FIGS.  1  and  2   . The remarks relating to  FIGS.  1  and  2    thus apply preferably accordingly or in a similar manner, while any desired combinations of features of the nebulizer  1  according to  FIGS.  1  and  2    and the nebulizer  1  described below are possible. 
     Preferably, the container  3  is pre-installed. This can be realized in particular as shown in WO 2006/125577 A2 or as described in the following. 
       FIG.  3    shows the nebulizer  1  in a delivery state with preferably pre-installed container  3 , which is still closed. In this state, the housing of the nebulizer  1  is not completely closed, in particular the housing part  18  is not completely pushed on the inner part  17 .  FIGS.  4  and  5    show the nebulizer  1  in an activated state with the housing completely closed and with the container  3  opened. In  FIG.  4   , the nebulizer  1  or drive spring  7  is tensioned, i.e. the container  3  is in its lower position.  FIG.  5    shows the nebulizer  1  in a non-tensioned state, e.g. after dispensing or nebulizing of one dose of the fluid  2 ; the container  3  is in its upper position. 
     The container  3  comprises a fluid outlet  24  for outputting the fluid  2  to be dispensed. In particular, the fluid outlet  24  allows a fluidic connection between the container  3  or its bag  4  on one hand and the nebulizer  1 , its pressure generator  5  or the conveying element on the other hand. 
     The fluid outlet  24  has an inner closure  25  that is preferably formed by a septum, a membrane, a plastic seal or the like and/or is provided inside the container  3 . Optionally, a second or outer closure  26  can be provided such that successive opening is possible by means of one common element, in particular the conveying element or conveying tube  9  or the like, and/or by piercing. 
     Preferably, the first or inner closure  25  is formed or supported by a closure part  27  extending from the outlet or head end of the container  3  into the container  3  or bag  4 . The second or outer closure  26  is preferably located adjacent to the head or axial end of the container  3  and/or held or connected to a flange  28 , which can be formed by the closure part  27  or any other suitable part. However, other constructional solutions are possible. 
     In the delivery state according to  FIG.  3   , the container  3  has been pre-installed, i.e. inserted into the nebulizer  1 . However, the container  3  or its fluid outlet  24  is not yet opened. In particular, the second closure  26  is already opened, but not the first closure  25 . This is achieved in particular in that the housing of the nebulizer  1  is closed only partly, i.e. not completely, in the delivery state. 
     In particular, the container  3  is attached to or held by or secured in the housing part  18 , in particular by a transportation lock  29 , which is preferably arranged within or at the housing part  18 . The transportation lock  29  holds the container  3  preferably temporarily, in particular before attaching the housing part  18  to the nebulizer  1  and/or in the delivery state. In particular, the transportation lock  29  holds the container  3  fixed during the fluidic connection of container  3  and/or during the mechanic connection of container  3 , here with holder  6 . Preferably, the transportation lock  29  holds the container  3  fixed during opening, in particular piercing, the container  3 . 
     In the delivery state, in which the nebulizer  1  can be shipped or delivered to the user or is still packed, the nebulizer  1  or the housing part  18  is preferably secured, in particular by means of a securing member  30 , e.g. a banderole, such that the container  3  and/or housing part  18  are held sufficiently spaced from the nebulizer  1  or upper housing part  16  and/or prevented from being completely closed or completely inserted or pushed on the conveying element or tube  9 , the housing or inner housing part  17  or the like and/or such that (complete) opening of the container  3 , namely of the first closure  25 , is prevented. 
     Once the security member  30  has been removed a user (not shown) can push the housing part  18  fully on in the axial direction and thereby open the container  3 , i.e. first closure  25 , by inserting the conveying element or conveying tube  9 .  FIGS.  4  and  5    show this activated state with the housing part  18  pushed fully on and/or the container  3  open (fluidically connected to the nebulizer  1  or its pressure generator  5  or the conveying element or tube  9 ). 
       FIG.  4    shows the nebulizer  1  or container  3  in the activated state, the container  3 , i.e. first closure  25 , is open, i.e. the container  3  or its fluid  2  is fluidically connected to the nebulizer  1  or its pressure generator  5 , and the housing part  18  has been pushed fully on in the axial direction. In order to bring the holder  6  into (complete) engagement with the container  3  at the head end and then be able to move the container  3  back and/or forth for the suction/tensioning and pressing strokes, it may be necessary to tension the nebulizer  1  or it drive spring  7  for the first time. During this tensioning process the holder  6  is moved together with the conveying tube  9  axially towards or into the housing part  18 , thus bringing the holder  6  into (complete) engagement with the container  3  and preferably also moving or pressing the container  3  against the piercing element  22  in the region of the base of the housing part  18  and thereby piercing or opening a venting hole  31  in the container base  21 .  FIG.  4    shows the nebulizer  1  in this tensioned and activated state. The holder  6  is engaged with the container  3  and the conveying tube  9  has been fully inserted into the container  3 . 
       FIG.  5    shows the nebulizer  1  in the relaxed, non-tensioned state, i.e. after atomization or discharge of a dose of the fluid  2 . The holder  6  and the container  3  are in the upper position. The holder  6  is still engaged with the container  3  and remains engaged during the further uses of the nebulizer  1 . Further, the container  3  is still open and fluidically connected, i.e. the nebulizer  1  remains activated. 
     To prevent unwanted opening of the container  3 , particularly of the first closure  25 , in the delivery state of the nebulizer  1 , and/or to prevent (axial) movement of the container  3  relative to the associated housing part  18  before complete closing of the nebulizer  1 , preferably the transportation lock  29  is provided. By frictional, forcible or interlocking engagement, for example, the transportation lock  29  prevents the container  3  from undesirably moving axially. 
     Preferably, the opening of the transportation lock  29  occurs automatically when closing the nebulizer  1  or its housing completely, i.e. when snapping or pushing on the housing part  18  completely towards the upper housing part  16 . During this (preferably linear, axial or telescopic) closing movement, the transportation lock  29  is opened and the container  3  released in axial direction preferably during or after piercing or opening the container  3  and/or preferably during only a last part of the movement and/or just little before the final completely closed position is reached or just when the final completely closed position is reached. 
     During the closing movement in which preferably parts  17  and  18  are joined, the transportation lock  29  is preferably opened by the direct or indirect interaction with or actuation by the housing of the nebulizer  1 , the inner part  17  or its lower part  17   b  or the like. Preferably, the container  3  and/or first closure  25  are opened as well as the transportation lock  29  by means of a common actuation and/or component, here the closing movement of the nebulizer  1  or its housing or bottom part  18 . 
       FIGS.  4  and  5    show the transportation lock  29  in the open position, i.e. wherein the container  3  is free to move axially. 
     In the following, a preferred embodiment of the nebulizer  1  according to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the further Figures, wherein only essential differences from the nebulizer  1  described above or shown in  FIGS.  1  to  5    will be emphasized or described. Thus, the remarks relating to  FIGS.  1  to  5    apply preferably accordingly or in a similar manner, while any desired combinations of features are possible. 
       FIG.  6    shows the nebulizer  1  in a perspective side view with not yet mounted, i.e. separated (lower) housing part  18  (partly cut open for illustration purposes) with associated container  3 . The container  3  has not been inserted or pre-installed in the nebulizer  1  yet. With other words, the nebulizer  1  has not been assembled yet or is not in the preferred delivery state yet. 
       FIG.  7    shows the nebulizer  1  in a schematic section as well as the container  3  and housing part  18  which are still separated from the (upper part of the) nebulizer  1 . 
     The nebulizer  1  or its housing or housing part  18  comprises preferably a securing device  32  which may have different functions. The securing device  32  may hold the container  3  such that the container  3  is moveable back and forth within the completely closed housing for conveying the fluid  2 , pressure generation and/or nebulization, wherein the securing device  32  may ensure that the container  3  is inseparable from the housing or housing part  18 . Thus, only complete replacement of the housing part  18  together with the respective container  3  is possible. Alternatively or additionally, the securing device  32  may form the transportation lock  29 . Alternatively or additionally, the securing device  32  may prevent that the used container  3  and/or used housing part  18  can be (re)connected to or used with the nebulizer  1  once more. 
     When the securing device  32  or transportation lock  29  is closed, the container  3  is held or counter-beared for opening by inserting the conveying element or tube  9 , preferably wherein a press-fit is formed between the conveying element or tube  9  and the container  3  or closure part  27 , and/or for (completely) connecting the container (head) to the holder  6 . With other words, the transportation lock  29  or securing device  32  form preferably a counter-bearing for the container  3  during closing of the nebulizer  1 . 
     When the securing device  32  or transportation lock  29  is closed, the container  3  is held spaced from the piercing element  22 . 
     The securing device  32  is preferably located or arranged or fixed at or in the housing part  18  as shown in  FIGS.  6  and  7   . 
     Preferably, the securing device  32  comprises or consists of a metal and/or stamped part and/or consists of a single, unitary part. The securing device  32  may consist of two or more parts, preferably connected by means of gluing, crimping, riveting, welding, or the like. 
     Preferably, the securing device  32  is made of steel, in particular spring steel. Preferably, the securing device  32  is produced from sheet material by cutting, stamping or the like and/or by bending. Preferably, the securing device  32  or a part thereof forms a cage, in particular encompassing the container  3  or an end portion thereof, in particular the container base  21 . 
     Preferably, the securing device  32  comprises holding elements  33  and/or locking elements  34 . The elements  33  and/or  34  are preferably designed like arms, fingers, leaves or the like. In particular, the elements  33  and  34  are alternately distributed over the circumference of the container  3 . Preferably, the securing device  32  comprises multiple holding elements  33  and multiple locking elements  34 , in particular three or more holding elements  33  and three or more locking elements  34 . Preferably, the elements  33  and  34  extend at least essentially axially and/or in the direction of the back and forth movement of the container  3  and/or in the direction of the longitudinal or main extension of the nebulizer  1  or main dispensing direction of the aerosol  14 . 
     Preferably, the elements  33  and  34  are held by or connected with a base  35  of the securing device  32 , as shown in  FIG.  8   .  FIG.  8    shows the nebulizer  1  in a schematic side view with already partly mounted housing part  18  and with some cut-away portions. The transportation lock  29  or securing device  32  is still closed or locked, i.e. the container  3  is still securely held so that it cannot axially move (axially means in the direction of the back and forth or stroke movements). 
     Preferably, the securing device  32  or base  35  comprises or holds the piercing element  22  for piercing the container  3 , i.e. opening the container base  21  or its venting hole  31  or a respective sealing of the container  3  or the like in the activated and tensioned state, i.e. when the container  3  reaches its lower end position. In the shown and preferred embodiment, the piercing element  22  is formed by a respective bending of a spring portion  36  of the securing device  32  or its base  35 . The spring portion  36  can support or facilitate the (complete or final) connection of the container  3  to the holder  6 . 
     The securing device  32  or base  35  comprises preferably at least one or multiple fixing portions  37  for fixing the securing device  32  at or in the nebulizer  1  or housing or housing part  18 . In particular, the fixing portions  37  may fix the securing device  32  when it is pressed into the housing part  18  by cooperating with the sidewall of the housing part  18 . However, it is also possible to overmold the securing device  32 , its base  35 , the fixing portions  37  or the like. Moreover, the securing device  32  could be connected with the housing part  18  or the like in any other suitable manner, in particular, by a separate fixing member, by gluing or the like. 
     As already mentioned, the securing device  32  preferably forms the transportation lock  29  for holding the container  3  unmovable in the housing or housing part  18  in the delivery state of the nebulizer and/or before attaching the housing part  18  to the nebulizer  1 . In this situation (in particular in the delivery state), the container  3  or a preferably radially protruding and/or circumferentially extending part or edge  38  thereof, preferably formed at the container base  21 , is held preferably in a form-fit manner and/or between the holding elements  33  and locking elements  34 , in particular between respectively formed or bent end portions  33   a  and  34   a  of the elements  33  and  34 , respectively, as shown in  FIGS.  6  to  8   . 
     In the shown embodiment, the container  3  and/or edge  38  is caught between the end portions  33   a  and  34   a , preferably alternatively. The holding elements  33  and/or end portions  33   a  grip or extend over the edge  38 , and the locking elements  34  or its end portions  34   a  grip or extend under the edge  38 , so that the edge  38  and container  3  are securely held in between, in particular by form-fit, preventing any axial movement of the container  3  relative to the securing device  32  and relative to the associated housing part  18  in this state or delivery state, i.e. with locked transportation lock  29 /securing device  32 . 
     Preferably, the end portions  33   a  and/or  34   a  are formed like claws or the like and/or extend preferably radially inwardly. 
     Preferably, the elements  33  and/or  34  can flex with its free ends radially outwardly. 
     Preferably, the securing device  32  is designed such that the associated container  3  can be connected with the securing device  32  by a respective axial force or movement, wherein the elements  33  and/or  34  flex preferably automatically outwardly as required to receive the container  3  in the locked position as shown in  FIGS.  6  to  8   . However, if necessary, a suitable tool (not shown) or the like could be used alternatively or additionally for assembly if necessary. 
     For example, the ends of the end portions  33   a  could be inclined such that the container  3  may be inserted into or connected with the securing device  32  by a respective axial movement so that the holding elements  33  flex outwardly to allow passing of edge  38 . 
     Preferably, the holding elements  33  or its end portions  33   a  prevent separation of the container  3  from the securing device  32  and, thus, from the associated housing part  18  or the like. 
     In the present embodiment, the holding elements  33  extend preferably above the end portions  33   a  and/or form or comprise preferably arm-like guiding and/or locking portions  33   b . These axial extensions and/or these portions  33   b  extend axially beyond the end portions  33   a  and/or may cooperate with the container  3  or its edge  38  during axial assembly of the container  3  with the securing device  32  such that the holding elements  33  are flexed sufficiently outwardly so that the edge  38  can pass the end portions  33   a  and the container base  21  can be seated on the end portions  34   a  of the locking elements  34 . 
     The locking elements  34  preferably comprise actuation portions  34   b  at its free ends extending axially beyond the end portions  34   a . The actuation portions  34   b  may radially guide the container  3  and/or facilitate insertion of the container  3  or its edge  38  between the free ends of the locking elements  34  although the locking elements  34  are preferably radially inwardly biased as well as the holding elements  33 . 
     When, the container  3  is held with its edge  38  between the end portions  33   a  and  34   a , the transportation lock  29 /securing device  32  is closed, i.e. the container  3  cannot move axially within the housing part  18  or nebulizer  1 . 
     For opening the transportation lock  29  or securing device  32 , the locking elements  34  and/or its end portions  34   a  are flexed preferably radially outwardly so that the container  3  can freely move axially, in particular restricted such that the edge  38  can only move axially within the securing device  32  and/or that the axial movement is restricted (in the drawings upwardly) by the holding elements  33  or its end portions  33   b  and/or such that the container  3  cannot be separated from the securing device  32 . This opening of the transportation lock  29  or securing device  32  will take place when activating the nebulizer  1 , when using the nebulizer  1  for the first time and/or when completely closing the nebulizer  1 . Then, the container  3  can axially move, in particular back and forth and/or with its edge  38  between the end portions  33   a  and the piercing element  22  in the present embodiment. This situation is schematically shown in the schematic section according to  FIG.  9    which shows the nebulization with closed housing or housing part  18  and with opened transportation lock  29 /securing device  32 . 
     In  FIG.  9   , the container  3  is shown in its lower position similar to  FIG.  4   , in particular, wherein the container base  21  is in contact with the piercing element  32 . However, the nebulizer  1  is not shown in the tensioned state, i.e. the holder  6  is not in its lower position, i.e. the holder  6  is not yet connected with the upper end or head of the container  3 . Normally, the holder  6  would be connected to the container  3  in this situation with the container  3  in the lower position. With other words, usually the nebulizer  1  or drive spring  7  would be tensioned in the situation with the container  3  being in the lower position. 
     Preferably, the container is finally or completely or correctly connected to holder  6  when tensioning the nebulizer  1  or its drive spring  7  for the first time after completely closing the nebulizer  1 . However, it is generally also possible that the nebulizer  1  is in the tensioned state, i.e. the drive spring  7  is already tensioned and the holder  6  is in the lower position, before or during (first) assembly with lower housing part  18 . Consequently, the holder  6  should directly connect with the container  3  when completely closing the housing part  18 , and the situation shown in  FIG.  9    should normally not occur. 
     In  FIG.  9   , the end portions  34   a  are moved radially outwardly in order to open the transportation lock  29  or securing device  32 . This is achieved preferably by flexing the locking elements  34  radially outwardly. This can be achieved in particular by acting on the actuation portions  34   b.    
     Preferably, the transportation lock  29  is opened or the locking elements  34  are flexed outwardly when completely closing the nebulizer  1  or its housing part  18 , in particular by cooperation with or abutment of the inner part  17 , its lower part  17   b , a retaining part  39  and/or a securing part  40 . The retaining part  39  is preferably arranged at the upper housing part  16  or inner part  17 . The securing part  40  is preferably arranged in the lower housing part  18 . 
     The retaining part  39  is connected to the lower or free end of the inner part  17  or its lower part  17   b  in order to hold, bear or support an end (the lower end) of the drive spring  7 .  FIGS.  3  to  5    show a preferred construction of the retaining part  39 . It is preferably formed as a ring and/or provided with hooks or the like for interconnection with the inner part  17 . In the preferred embodiment, the retaining element  19  forms a unitary component or portion of the retaining part  39 . However, other constructional solutions are possible. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  3  to  5   , a preferably ring-like securing part  40  opens the transportation lock  29 , in particular flexible arms of the transportation lock  29 , to allow axial movement of the container  3 . This securing part  40  keeps the transportation lock  29  or its flexible arms open when the nebulizer  1  or its housing part  18  has been completely closed. The securing part  40  is pushed axially downwards by abutment of the inner part  17  or retaining part  39  within the housing part  18  when completely closing the nebulizer  1 . 
     In the preferred embodiment shown in  FIGS.  6  to  15    and particular in  FIG.  9   , the nebulizer  1 , housing part  18  or securing device  32  comprises the preferably ring-like securing part  40  for opening the transportation lock  29 /securing device  32  or its locking elements  34 . In particular, the securing part  40  is pushed axially downwards when closing the nebulizer  1  so that it is moved between the locking elements  34  or its actuation portions  34   b  and exerts an axial force radially outwards. Preferably, an inclined plane converts the axial or closing movement into an opening or radial movement which forces the actuation portions  34   b  radially outwardly when the securing part  40  is forced axially downwardly, here by abutment of the retaining part  39 , in particular in the axial end position shown in  FIG.  9   . 
     Preferably, the securing part  40  and/or locking elements  34  or actuation portions  34   b  comprise a respectively inclined guiding surface  41  or the like to convert the axial closing movement or movement of the securing part  40  into the desired radial opening movement of the locking elements  34  or actuation portions  34   b  and, thus, of the end portions  34   a  to open the transportation lock  29 , in particular when the housing has been completely closed or when the housing part  18  has been pushed completely on the nebulizer  1 . 
     However, other constructional solutions are possible to realize opening of the transportation lock  29  or securing device  32  or its locking elements  34  or end portions  34   a  when closing the nebulizer  1  or its housing parts  18 . 
     In the preferred embodiment the securing part  40  serves alternatively or additionally another purpose. Namely, the securing part  40  prevents the locking portions  33   b  from moving radially apart or flexing radially outwards before the nebulizer  1  is assembled with its housing part  18  for the first time. 
     As already mentioned, the securing device  32  prevents preferably that a container  3  can be connected to or used with the nebulizer  1  once more. In particular, the securing device  32  can prevent that a used housing part  18  or used container  3  can be reconnected to the nebulizer  1  once it has been detached from the nebulizer  1 . Thus, the securing device  32  prevents any undesired reuse of the container  3  and/or housing part  18  with its preferably inseparable container  3 . 
     In the present embodiment, the undesired reuse is prevented in that the locking portions  33   b  force apart or move apart or radially and/or outwards at least after the used container  3  and/or housing part  18  has been detached from the nebulizer  1  such that the used container  3  and/or housing part  18  cannot be connected to or used with the nebulizer  1  once more. Preferably, the locking portions  33   b  are biased such that the locking portions  33   b  force apart or move radially and/or outwards after release. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the locking portions  33   b  are held together or held against moving apart, radially and/or outwards by the securing part  40  (schematically indicated in  FIG.  7   ) before the container  3  and the associated housing part  18  have been connected to the nebulizer  1  for the first time. In this pre-assembly state, the securing part  40  is located preferably near the free ends of the locking portions  33   b  and/or it encompasses that locking portions  33   b  such that locking portions  33   b  are held sufficiently close together to be inserted with its free ends within the retaining part  39  and/or drive spring  7  when pushing the housing part  18  axially onto the nebulizer  1  or its inner part  17 , in particular lower part  17   b.    
     The securing part  40  may cooperate with the locking portions  33   b  or protrusions  33   c  thereof (shown in  FIG.  9   ) preferably such that the securing part  40  is held by a preferably radial engagement and/or frictional force in its (upper) position holding the locking portions  33   b  or holding elements  33  together in the pre-assembly state. Later during assembly, in particular during complete closing of the housing or pushing on the housing part  18 , the locking portions  33   b  are moved into the retaining part  39  and drive spring  7 , while the securing part  40  is moved axially downwards or towards the securing device  32 , the container base  21  and/or bottom part of the end of the housing part  18 . Then, the end position or completely assembled position is reached as shown in  FIG.  9   . In this state, the radially biased locking portions  33   b  are held together by the drive spring  7  as the securing part  40  does not hold the locking portions  33   b  together any more. 
     Preferably, the securing part  40  has opened the transportation lock  29  or locking elements  34  in the last part of the closing movement or just when completely closing the nebulizer  1  as already mentioned. 
     The schematic section of  FIG.  10    shows the housing part  18  together with its associated container  3  after it has been used and separated from the nebulizer  1 . The securing part  40  remains preferably in its lower position. The transportation lock  29  is (still) open. The container  3  is shown in its upper position where it is held by the end portions  33   a  of the holding elements  33  when detaching the container  3  from the nebulizer  1 , in particular from the holder  6  and the conveying element or tube  9 . 
       FIG.  10    shows that the locking portions  33   b  have been forced apart, in particular due to its biasing or elastic force, here moved radially outwardly with its free ends in particular due to its preferably radial biasing or elastic force. This forced apart position of the locking portions  33   b  blocks reconnection of the container  3  and/or housing part  18  and/or securing device  32  with the nebulizer  1 . Thus, the already used container  3  cannot be reused. Thus, misuse of the container  3  or nebulizer  1  can be prevented. 
     The securing part  40  may additionally secure the holding elements  33  or its end portions  33   a  against radial opening when the securing part  40  is in its lower position as shown in  FIGS.  9  and  10   . In this case, the securing part  40  contacts the holding elements  33  preferably on the outer side to prevent or restrict any outward flexing. Thus, the securing device  32  or its holding elements  33  or end portions  33   a  are secured against opening so that the container  3  or its edge  38  is securely held within the securing device  32  or the cage formed by the securing device  32  or holding elements  33 . 
     In the preferred embodiment, the counter device  23  is arranged preferably at the housing part  18  as schematically shown in  FIGS.  7  to  10   . 
     The counter device  23  counts the actuations or operations of the nebulizer  1  or the discharged doses, preferably for the respective container  3 . 
     Preferably, the counter device  23  counts actuations or operations by detecting the rotation of the inner part  17  relative to the upper part  16  of the housing. With other words, the counter device  23  may count the tensioning the nebulizer  1  or its drive spring  7 . However, other constructional solutions are possible. 
     Preferably, the counter device  23  comprises a threaded spindle or shaft  42  with an associated, preferably unitary formed drive gear  43 . The counter device  23  comprises preferably further a rider  44  associated to the threaded shaft  42  and cooperating with the threaded shaft  42  such that the rider  44  is axially moved along the threaded shaft  42  as the shaft  42  is rotated. 
     The threaded shaft  42  is rotatable beared preferably in the lower housing part  18  and/or extents preferably parallel to the axial or longitudinal direction of the nebulizer  1  and/or to the axial or stroke movement of the container  3 . 
     The drive gear  43  is located preferably at an upper end of the threaded shaft  42  and/or housing part  18 , in particular such that it can mesh with a preferably inner toothing  45  of the housing or upper housing part  16  of the nebulizer  1  in the assembled state, i.e. when the housing of the nebulizer  1  is completely closed, as schematically shown in  FIG.  9   . 
     The counter device  23  or its rider  44 , in particular the axial position of the rider  44  along the threaded shaft  42 , may show or indicate the number of operations, in particular of tensioning, actuations or doses, which have already been performed or used with the current container  3  or which can still be performed with the current container  3 . This operation number can in particularly been shown by a pointer  46  and/or an associated scale or the like which are visible reasonable through a corresponding window or transparent part of the housing part  18 . It has to be noted that the number has not be shown precisely. In particular, it may be sufficient that the counter device  23 , the rider  44  or its pointer  46  give a rough indication of the number. For this purpose, it may be sufficient if the scale shows only different colored areas or regions roughly indicating said number. Further, it has to be noted that other constructional solutions are possible as well. 
     The counter device  23  works preferably mechanically. This allows a very simple and robust construction and a very secure operation. 
     The counter device  23  may control or provide preferably locking of the nebulizer  1 , indicating any required container replacement and/or container counting. For this purpose, the monitoring  23  or the rider  44  comprises preferably an actuation part  47  as schematically shown in  FIG.  8   . The actuation part  47  is preferably ridge-like and/or extending in axial direction and/or towards the upper housing part  16  and/or upwards. 
     The counter device  23  is associated to the respective housing part  18  and, thus, preferably to only one container  3  and counts operations of the nebulizer  1  with the respective container  3 , i.e. counts (only) the number of doses of fluid  2  removed or still removable from this container  3 . 
     It has to be noted that the first container  3  may be pre-installed together with the associated housing part  18  in the delivery state. This pre-installment is optional. Preferably, further separate containers  3  are delivered together with the nebulizer  1 , wherein each container  3  is inseparably connected with an associated housing part  18  and, thus, with an associated counter device  23 . Preferably, the counter device  23  or threaded shaft  42  of each housing part  18  is designed or provided with inhibition or brake means, such that any undesired counting or rotation is prevented before the respective housing part  18  is mounted to the nebulizer  1 . 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably a device  48  for counting the number of containers  3  that have been used or still can be used with the nebulizer  1  and/or for indicating or displaying said container numbers and/or symbols indicating container replacement and/or end of use. This device  48  is preferably for monitoring and/or user guidance. 
     Preferably, said numbers and/or symbols are visible or shown through a transparent part or window  49  of the nebulizer  1 , in particular located in the upper housing part  16  as schematically indicated in  FIG.  6   . In particular, said numbers and/or symbols are shown at a side face of the nebulizer  1 . Other arrangements or constructional solutions are possible. 
       FIG.  11    shows the nebulizer  1  without lower housing part  18  and without container  3  in a schematic side view, wherein parts of the upper housing part  16  have been cut-away so that the monitoring or guidance device  48  of the nebulizer  1  is better visible. 
     The nebulizer  1  or device  48  comprises preferably a member  50  for indicating or displaying said container number, symbols, a status, and/or user instructions, e.g. relating to container replacement, and/or for controlling locking of the nebulizer  1 . Thus, the member  50  is also called indicator member and/or control member. Preferably, both functions are achieved by the same or one single member  50 . However, it is also possible that the indicator member and the control member are formed by separate parts or multiple parts. Preferably, the following description shall be understood in such a broad sense. 
     Preferably, the nebulizer  1  or device  48  comprises a spring  51  for driving or moving, in particular rotating, the member  50 . This spring  51  is shown in  FIGS.  7 ,  8 ,  9  and  11   . Preferably, the member  50  is driven or rotated—in particular in multiple steps and/or from an initial (rotational) position to a final (rotational) position—only by spring force or by means of the spring  51 . 
     The spring  51  is preferably a helical, sleeve-like, ring-like and/or torsional spring and/or a leg spring. It is preferably located coaxially with and/or adjacent to the driven member  50 . 
     The spring  51  is preferably mounted in a biased state so that it applies a rotational force to the member  50 . For this purpose, the spring  51  is supported with one end or leg at the nebulizer  1 , in particular at the upper housing part  16 , and engages with its other end or leg with member  50 , e.g. by abutting a respective shoulder or bearing portion  67  (shown in  FIGS.  12  and  13   ) of the member  50  or the like. 
       FIG.  12    shows a preferred embodiment of the member  50  in a schematic side view.  FIG.  13    shows the member  50  in a perspective view. 
     The member  50  is preferably formed by a unitary and/or molded part. The member  50  is preferably at least essentially ring-like and forms or comprises a preferably closed ring. 
     The member  50  comprises or is provided with numbers  52  indicating said container number, and/or with said symbols  53  for user guidance, in particular for indicating container replacement and/or end of use of the nebulizer  1 . Preferably, the numbers  52  and symbols  53  are shown and/or arranged on the member  50  such that one or more numbers  52  and one or more symbols  53  alternate. In particular, between preferably consecutive numbers  52  one or more symbols  53  are arranged and/or shown such that these symbols  53  indicate e.g. necessary container replacement, opening of the nebulizer  1 , closing of the nebulizer  1  or the like. This may be communicated or indicated by respective arrows, colors, marks or the like as symbols  53 . Further, the last symbol  53  may indicate end of use of the nebulizer  1  or complete locking of the nebulizer  1 , e.g. by an “X” or the like. This symbol  53  may be shown for example when the allowable number of operations or actuations of the nebulizer  1  have been reached or exceeded of the last container  3  that may be used with or in the nebulizer  1 , i.e. indicating total or final locking of the nebulizer  1 . In the present embodiment, preferably a sequence of at least two different symbols  53  is shown between different or consecutive numbers  52 . This sequence of symbols  53  comprises preferably a first symbol  53  (e.g. arrow downwards) indicating opening of the nebulizer  1  for container replacement and a second symbol  53  (e.g. arrow upwards) indicating closure of the nebulizer  1  for completing container replacement. However, it is also possible to show only one, potentially similar or identical symbol  53  between the different or consecutive numbers  52 , such as one symbol  53  indicating container replacement. Preferably, only one special or end symbol  53 , such as “X”, is shown at the end when the allowable number of operations or actuations of the nebulizer  1  has been reached or exceeded for the last container  3  and/or when the nebulizer  1  is finally blocked and/or when no further container  3  can be inserted. 
     The member  50  comprises preferably engagement or stop portions  54  which are preferably formed by radial protrusions or the like in the present embodiment. The stop positions  54  are used preferably to allow or realize a stepwise movement or rotation (indexing) of the member  50 . 
     The member  50  comprises further preferably blocking portions  55  which extend preferably axially and/or cooperate with the retaining element  19  to selectively lock the nebulizer  1  or housing part  18  against opening, in particular by selectively blocking the retaining element  19  against depressing or radial inward movement. 
     The member  50  comprises preferably control portions  56  for controlling or driving an associated lock  57  of the nebulizer  1 . The control portions  56  are formed preferably by protrusions or indentions or inclined guiding surfaces or the like which preferably extend radially and/or which are preferably formed on an outer circumference of the member  50  or its ring portion. However, other arrangements are possible as well. 
     The lock  57  is preferably formed by a locking member  58  or a portion  59  thereof, which is preferably tongue-like, leaf-like and/or flexible.  FIG.  14    shows in a perspective view the locking member  58 .  FIG.  15    shows in other perspective view the locking member  58 . 
     The locking member  58  is preferably made of metal and/or formed by plate material and/or a stamped part or the like. The locking member  58  is preferably ring-like and/or sleeve-like. 
     The portion  59  is preferably bent or indented or provided with such a form, in particular in radial direction and/or provided with a crimp, corrugation  60  or the like, for cooperating with the member  50  and/or at least one or more or all of the control portions  56 , in particular such that depending on the rotational movement or position of the member  50  the portion  59  is radially flexed, in particular outwards, or not. For example, the control portions  56  are indented or recessed so that a portion  59  is not flexed radially outwards if the respective corrugation  60 , which extends radially inwards from the respective portion  59 , is received in a portion  56  located adjacent to this corrugation  60  on the inner side. If the member  50  is in another rotational portion, the corrugation  60  may abut on the non-recessed outer periphery of member  50  so that the respective portion  59  is flexed outwards and the lock  57  is closed. Thus, the lock  57  is driven or controlled, namely closed and opened, by means of the control member  50 , in particular depending on its rotational position. 
     As already mentioned, the device  48  or member  50  is preferably driven by spring force, in the present embodiment by the force of spring  51 . In particular, the member  50  is rotated or indexed stepwise by means of the force of the spring  51 , wherein a ratchet or stop mechanism is provided to ensure the only stepwise moving or rotating of the member  50 . In particular, stop means engage with the stop portions  54  of the member  50 . In the present embodiment, the mechanism or stop means are preferably formed by one or two stop elements  61 . The stop elements  61  are preferably formed like arms and/or by the locking member  58 . The stop elements  61  are preferably elastically flexible to selectively allow a stop portion  54  to pass, i.e. to selectively allow the member  50  to index one step further, or to block a stop portion  54  and, thus, member  50  against further rotation. Preferably, the stop elements  61  are biased into a stopping position such that each stop element  61  extends into the way of movement of the stop portions  24  such that no stop portion  54  can pass the respective stop element  61 . 
     Preferably, at least two stop elements  61  are provided and preferably offset such that stop elements  61  can be actuated alternatively to allow the member  50  to index or move further by one step, i.e. by one rotational movement or increment when the stop elements  61  are alternatively actuated, e.g. flexed, in particular in axial and/or radial direction, to allow one stop portion  54  to pass. The stop elements  61  are preferably flexed upwards to allow the respective stop portion  54  to pass. The actuation of the stop elements  61  will be explained in more detail below. 
     The stop elements  61  or its free ends may be provided with a broadened abutment or engagement body or surface, in particular by respectively bending the element or arm  61 , by overmolding or the like. Each stop element  61  may be provided with a contact element  61   a  as schematically shown in  FIG.  8   . The contact element  61   a  may be formed by overmolding and/or may be shoe-like. The contact element  61   a  may form a stop or abutment for the stop portions  54  such that the member  50  is blocked against further rotation by force of spring  51  when the stop element  61  or contact element  61   a  is in the blocking position, here in the lower position shown in  FIG.  8    where one stop portion  54  abuts the contact element  61   a  and cannot pass in circumferential direction. Here, the stop element  61  or contact element  61   a  has to be moved upwards or axially so that the blocked stop portion  51  can pass and the member  50  can index one step further in circumferential direction. 
     In the following, the operation and handling of the nebulizer  1  will be explained in more detail. 
     The nebulizer  1  may be delivered with a pre-installed container  3  and pre-attached housing part  18 . In this case, the nebulizer  1  or its housing part  18  is not completely closed so that the container  3  is not yet fluidically connected or opened. 
     Alternatively the nebulizer  1  may be delivered with a separate container  3  and housing part  18 . In this case the container  3  and the housing part  18  are preferably pre-assembled, i.e. form a unit that is separate from the nebulizer  1 . 
     In any case, the nebulizer  1  is preferably delivered together with multiple containers  3 , e.g. four or five containers  3 , wherein each container  3  is inseparably connected to an associated housing part  18 . These units of containers  3  and housing parts  18  can be exchanged so that the nebulizer  1  can be used with multiple containers  3  one after the other. 
     In both cases, the container  3  is preferably held unmoveably at or within the housing part  18  by the closed transportation lock  29  or securing device  39 . 
     In both cases, the housing part  18  comprises preferably a coding, e.g. by one or more grooves, protrusions, ribs  62  or the like distributed around the inner circumference of the housing part  18  and/or axially extending, as schematically indicated in  FIG.  10   . This coding corresponds to the container  3  or the respective fluid  2  associated to the housing part  18 . The coding matches to a complementary coding at the nebulizer  1 , in particular at the inner part  17  or retaining part  39 , and is preferably formed by respectively arranged and/or dimensioned indentions, coding portions  63 , such as protrusion, indentions, recesses or the like, in particular formed by or at the retaining ring or part  39 , as schematically shown in  FIG.  11   . Only when the codings match, the housing part  18  and, thus, the container  3  can be pre-installed and/or (completely) connected to or with the nebulizer  1 . 
     Before (completely) closing the nebulizer  1  or its housing part  18 , the device  48  or indicator member  50  may indicate by a respective symbol  53 , such as an arrow pointing upwards, to completely close the nebulizer  1  or housing part  18 . 
     When the housing part  18  is completely closed, the container  3  associated to the housing part  18  is fluidically connected to the nebulizer  1 . This is detected or registered by the nebulizer  1  or device  48 . This detection of the connection of the housing part  18  and, thus, of an associated container  3  is preferably realized mechanically, in particular by actuating one of the stop elements  61  to allow the member  50  to index one step further, i.e. until the other stop element  61  stops further indexing or rotation of the member  50 . In the present embodiment, this registration or actuation is preferably achieved by a protrusion  64  formed at the housing part  18 , in particular at its upper front face, as shown in particular in  FIG.  7   . When completely closing nebulizer  1 , the protrusion  64  abuts one associated stop element  61  or contact element  61   a  and consequently flexes the stop element  61  or contact element  61   a  upwards such that it does not stop a corresponding stop portion  54  of the member  50  anymore, but allows the member  50  to move or rotate one step further, i.e. until the other stop element  61 , which has not been flexed out of engagement in this state, stops further rotation by stopping a corresponding stop portion  54 , preferably another one of stop portions  54 . 
     As already mentioned, the container  3  is preferably inseparable from the housing part  18 , the associated counter device  23  and/or associated securing device  32 . Thus, after connection of a new container  3  with the nebulizer  1 , the associated counter device  23  starts counting of the number of operations or uses of the respective container  3  that have already been performed or still can be performed. This operation number may be indicated or shown by the counter device  23  or its rider  44  or pointer  46  as already mentioned, while the device  48  or member  50  preferably only shows the container number  52 , i.e. the number of containers  3  that have already been used or still can be used with the nebulizer  1 . 
     Preferably, the nebulizer  1  is blocked against opening until the current container  3  has been (sufficiently) emptied, and/or until a predetermined number of operations or actuations has been reached or exceeded. This blocking of the nebulizer  1  or its housing part  18  against opening and/or container replacement is preferably achieved by a respective blocking portion  55  of the member  50  located below the retaining element  19  in this state as schematically indicated e.g. in  FIG.  9   , such that the retaining element  19  cannot be depressed, i.e. the nebulizer  1  cannot be opened and the housing part  18  cannot be detached. 
     When a predetermined number of operations or actuations of the nebulizer  1  has been reached, the nebulizer  1  is blocked against further use with the current container  3 . This blocking is also called first locked state. 
     The first locked state is entered preferably by means of the counter device  23 . In particular, the rider  44  or its actuation part  47  cooperate with the device  48  to enter the first locked state, when a predetermined number of operations have been reached or exceeded with the current container  3 . Particularly, the rider  44  or its actuation part  47  reach an upper axial position in this state and actuate a respective stop element  61  or contact element  61   a  that is in blocking position or engagement with a stop portion  54 . Thus, the stop element  61  or contact element  61   a  is preferably flexed or deformed such that the previously stopped stop portion  54  can pass and the member  50  is free to index one step further by the force of spring  51 .  FIG.  8    shows a situation, in which the rider  44  and actuation part  47  are already near the upper position and near the position to actuate the associated stop element  61  or contact element  61   a . However, in the state shown in  FIG.  8    one stop portion  54  and the member  50  are still blocked against rotating one step further. 
     The above indexing of the member  50  by one step leads to the first locked state. In this state, the nebulizer  1  or retaining element  19  is unblocked so that it can be opened. In particular, the blocking portion  55  blocking actuation of the retaining element  19  in the previous state is moved further, so that the retaining element  19  is not blocked any more, but can be actuated or pushed in order to allow detachment of the housing part  18  for container replacement. 
     In the first locked state the nebulizer  1 , device  48  or member  50  indicates preferably by a respective symbol  53 , in particular by an arrow pointing downwards, that container replacement is necessary and/or that the nebulizer  1  is locked against further use with the current container  3 . 
     By the above indexing of the member  50  to reach the first locked state, the nebulizer  1  is locked against further use. This is achieved in particular in that the member  50  drives the lock  57  to lock the nebulizer  1  against further actuation, preferably against further tensioning of the drive spring  7  and/or against rotating of the housing part  18 . This is preferably realized in that the rotation of the member  50  flexes the lock  57  or portion  59  of the locking member  58  radially outwards so that the flexed portion  59  leaves its non-locking position, into which it is biased, and locks further rotation of the inner part  17  relative to the upper housing part  16 . This locking is in particularly achieved in that a free end of the portion  59  engages into a respective toothing or against respective abutment surfaces formed at the inner surface of the upper housing part  16 . In this respect it has to be noted that the device  48  is preferably arranged or mounted on inner part  17 , particular on its upper part  17   a , wherein the preferably ring-like locking member  58  is preferably arranged around the rotatable member  50 . The locking member  58  is preferably secured against rotation relative to the inner part  17  by respective form fit engagement, preferably of the inner part  17  or at least one protrusion  17   c  thereof into a recess  65  of the locking member  58 . In the present embodiment, the recess  65  is preferably formed like a pocket or a portion cut-out of the periphery from one axial side. In particular, the locking member  58  may be provided with two or more recesses  65  as schematically shown in  FIGS.  14  and  15   , for engagement of respective protrusions  17   c  or the like, in particular of the associated inner part  17 . However, other constructional solutions are possible as well. 
     Consequently, only member  50  is rotatable relative to inner part  17  and, thus, to locking member  58 . However, locking member  58  is rotatable together with inner part  17  relative to upper housing part  16 . 
     As already mentioned, the control member  50  is moveable, in particular rotatable, relative to locking member  58 . This relative rotation is meant when any rotation or indexing of the control member  50  is mentioned. In this context, it has to be considered that the device  48  and the locking member  58  are rotated together with the inner part  17 , but this rotation is different as this is the movement for tensioning the energy store, here spring  7 , and/or for delivering or sucking fluid  2  out of the container  3  by in particular axial movement of the conveying element or tube  9 . 
     The construction mentioned above, results in that the device  48  is rotated together with the inner part  17  each time the lower housing part  18  is rotated, i.e. when tensioning the drive spring  7 . This rotation is preferably performed in 180° steps. Therefore, the device  48  or indicator member  50  comprises preferably two sets of respective number  52  and/or symbols  53  that are shown alternately through the window  49 . 
     Thus, the member  50  comprises preferably two groups of numbers  52  and/or symbols  53 , each group with the respective sequence of numbers  52  and/or symbols  53 , wherein the groups are arranged offset by 180° on the member  50 . This offset correspondence to the rotational angle for each rotational actuation of the lower housing part  18  and inner part  17  for tensioning the nebulizer  1 /drive spring  7 . 
     Preferably, the control portions  56  and/or the peripheral parts of the control member  50  in between the portion  56  form an inclined or control plane or surface cooperating with the portion  59  or its cam or corrugation  60  such that the lock  57  or the locking can be actuated alone by the force of the spring  51  acting on the member  50 . In particular, the spring  51  or member  50  drives the lock  57 . Further, the member  50  controls the lock  57  or the locking. As the member  50  also forms an indicator member, the indicator member drives the lock  57  or locking as well. 
     In the present embodiment, the locking member  58  is preferably arranged outside or around the control member  50  at least around a cylindrical main part of control member  50 . In particular, the locking member  58  encompasses or covers at least substantially the cylindrical main part of the control member  50 . The locking member  58  comprises preferably two openings  66  (shown in  FIGS.  14  and  15   ) that are alternately aligned with window  49  depending on the rotational position of inner part  17  and, thus, of the locking member  58  so that the respective number  52  and/or symbol  53  is visible through the window  49  and through locking member  58 . 
     In the first locked state, the member  50  is preferably stopped against further rotation by the protrusion  64  where any other part corresponding to the attachment of the housing part  18 . When the housing part  18  is detached from the nebulizer  1  or its upper housing part  16  or inner part  17  for container replacement, this detachment is registered by unblocking the further movement or rotation of the member  50 . In particular, a stop portion  54  of the member  50  which has been stopped by protrusion  64  or the like, can pass after detachment of the housing part  18  so that the member  50  can index one step further. In this further rotational position, the nebulizer  1  is still in its first locked state, i.e. is still locked against further use, in particular against further actuation or tensioning of the drive spring  7 . However, the member  50  may show the next symbol  53 , in particular an arrow pointing upwards, indicating that a new container  3  has to be connected and/or that a new housing part  18  has to be connected to the nebulizer  1 . This situation correspondents to the initial situation before first assembly of the nebulizer  1  with the housing part  18  as already described. 
     It has to be noted that the stop element  8  is preferably blocked against actuation, in particular against release of the holder  6  and drive spring  7  in the first locked state. This actuation locking will also be achieved by the device  48  or member  50 . 
     When the housing part  18  and the associated container  3  have been replaced, this is registered by the device  48 , in particular by actuation of the corresponding stop element  61  by means of the protrusion  64 . Then the member  50  indexes one step further and shows the next container number  52 . Then, the lock  57  is reset, i.e. opened or unlocked again. Thus, the nebulizer  1  is unlocked and can be used further with the new container  3 . Simultaneously, the container  3  or housing part  18  is preferably locked again against opening or container replacement, in particular in that the next blocking portion  55  is positioned below retaining element  19  to prevent actuation of the retaining element  19  which is necessary for opening the nebulizer  1 . 
     The above sequence can be repeated, i.e. new containers  3  and new housing parts  18  can be used one after the after with the nebulizer  1 , wherein the device  48  or indicator member  50  displays or shows the container number  52  and, preferably, symbols  53  for user guidance, in particular to indicate any necessary container replacement and/or indicating to open and close the nebulizer  1  or the like. The container number  52  relates in particular to the number of containers  3  that have already been used with the nebulizer  1  or still can be used with the nebulizer  1 . In particular, one or more symbols  53  are displayed or shown alternately with the consecutive container numbers  52 . This is realized preferably by one comment component, namely indicator member  50 . However, other constructional realizations are possible. 
     Further, the display of the container numbers  52  and/or symbols  53  works preferably only mechanical. 
     In particular, the device  48  and/or the lock  57  work only mechanical. 
     After a predetermined number of containers  3  have been connected to or with the nebulizer  1 , the nebulizer  1  will be blocked against further container replacement. After using the lastly inserted or connected container  3 , the nebulizer  1  will enter the final locked state, i.e. the second locked state, preferably where the lock  57  or nebulizer  1  is blocked against resetting and/or the nebulizer  1  or housing part  18  is blocked against opening. This second locked state is entered in particular after the predetermined number of operations has been reached or exceeded with the ultimate, current container  3 . Similar to the previous process the counter device  23  or its rider  44  or actuation part  47  actuates the device  48 , in particular the corresponding stop element  61  to allow to index the member  50  one step further into its final rotational position. Thus, the second locked state is entered. 
     In the second lock state, the control member  50  cannot be rotated any further. This is realized in the present embodiment in particular in that the bearing portion  67  abuts one protrusion  17   c  of the inner part  17  engaging into one of the recesses  65 . However, other constructional solutions are possible in order to realize the desired rotational stop or blocking for the control member  50  in the final rotational position, i.e. in the second locked state. 
     In the second locked state, the device  48  or member  50  does not allow opening of the nebulizer  1  or housing part  18  as it would be in the case in the first locked state. Instead, the member  50  comprises a respectively designed, preferably sufficiently long blocking portion  55  to block the retaining element  19  further against actuation and, thus, to block the nebulizer  1  against opening and container replacement. 
     In the second locked state, the nebulizer  1  can be locked against further actuation, in particular against tensioning of the drive spring  1  and/or rotation of the housing part  18  or inner part  17 . This can be realized by actuating the lock  57 , in particular by flexing portion  59  radially (preferably outwards) by the member  50  or its corresponding control portion  56 . In the second locked state, the nebulizer  1  is preferably locked against any further discharge of fluid  2 , in particular by blocking actuation of the stop element  8 . This is preferably also realized by device  48 . 
     Therefore, the nebulizer  1  cannot be used anymore after the second locked state has been entered. The second locked state is not reversible. In particular, resetting or unlocking of the lock  57  is not possible, but prevented in the second locked state. 
     As already outlined above, some general aspects or ideas of the nebulizer  1  according to the preferred embodiment can be summarized as indicated in the following. 
     The device  48  consists preferably only of two parts (control member  50  and locking member  58 ) or three parts (control member  50 , spring  51  and locking member  58 ), but provides multiple functions, in particular displaying of numbers  42  and/or symbols  53  and/or user instructions, locking of the nebulizer  1  against further use, locking of the nebulizer  1  against tensioning, and/or locking of the nebulizer  1  against opening or container replacement. 
     The nebulizer  1  may comprise the indicator member  50  for showing numbers, in particular container numbers  52  and alternately symbols  53  indicating container replacement and/or nebulizer opening and/or closing. 
     The indicator member  50  may be moved or rotated stepwise by the force of the spring  51 . 
     The indicator member  50  may drive the lock  57  of the nebulizer  1  such that the nebulizer  1  is locked against further use in the first locked state, when he container  3  has to be replaced, wherein the first locked state is reset by indexing the indicator member  50  and/or resetting the lock  57  if the container  3  and/or housing part  18  have been replaced. 
     The indicator member  50  is preferably ring-like. 
     The indicator member  50  works or shows the numbers  52  and/or symbols  53  mechanically. 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably the lock  57  for locking the nebulizer  1  against further use in the first locked state, in particular when the container  3  has to be replaced. 
     Preferably, the first locked state is reset by resetting the lock  57 , if the container  3  and/or housing part  18  have been replaced. With other words, the lock  57  is preferably resettable and can be used further after container replacement. In particular, an exchange or replacement of the lock  57  is not necessary to reuse the nebulizer  1 . 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably the control member  50  for controlling or driving the lock  57 . 
     The control member  50  is preferably moved or rotated stepwise by the force of the spring  51 . 
     The lock  57  and/or first locked state is preferably blocked against resetting in the second locked state. 
     The second locked state is preferably entered when a predetermined number of containers  3  has been used or inserted into the nebulizer  1  and, preferably after a predetermined number of operations has been performed or exceeded with the nebulizer  1  after inserting the last container  3 . 
     The control member  50  is preferably ring-like. 
     Preferably, the control member  50  forms the indicator member or vice versa. 
     The control member  50  displays preferably the numbers  52  of containers  3  that have been used or still can be used and/or the symbols  53  indicating containing replacement and/or user guidance or nebulizer handling. 
     The control member  50  blocks preferably opening of the nebulizer  1  and/or container replacement until a predetermined number of operations has been reached or exceeded with the current container  3 . 
     Preferably, the nebulizer  1  is locked against opening or container replacement, in particular by means of the control member  50 , in the second locked state. 
     Preferably, the nebulizer  1  is locked against opening or container replacement, in particular by means of the control member  50 , before the first locked state has been reached. 
     Preferably, the lock  57  locks the nebulizer  1  in the first and/or second locked state against conveying fluid  2  into the pressure generator  5  and/or against tensioning of the drive spring  7  of the nebulizer  1  and/or against rotation or turning of the housing part  18  or inner part  17 . 
     Preferably, the housing part  18  has to be replaced each time the container  3  is replaced. In particular, the container  3  is inseparable from the housing part  18  and/or counter device  23  or vice versa. 
     The securing device  32 , in particular its moved apart locking portions  33   b , preferably prevent that the used and/or detached container  3  can be re-connected to or reused with the nebulizer  1  once more and or prevent that a used or detached housing part  18  can be reconnected to the nebulizer  1  once more. 
     Preferably, the housing part  18  can be or has to be detached or opened for replacing the container  3 . 
     Preferably, the securing device  32  is associated to the container  3  preventing that a used container  3  can be connected or used with the nebulizer once more. 
       FIGS.  16  to  25    show preferred aspects and/or preferred modifications of the nebulizer  1  according to the present invention. The previous descriptions and explanations apply preferably in addition even if a repetition is omitted. 
       FIG.  16    shows the upper part  16  of the nebulizer  1  in a partial, schematic sectional view.  FIG.  17    shows a schematic sectional view perpendicular to the plane of  FIG.  16    essentially in the plane of the indicator/control member  50 . 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably a blocking device  68  which—in the tensioned state of the nebulizer  1  or energy store or drive spring  7 —blocks opening of the nebulizer  1  or housing and/or blocks detachment of the housing part  18  and/or blocks indexing of the member  50 . 
     In particular, the member  50 , preferably the rotational position of member  50 , controls locking and unlocking of the housing or housing part  18  or retaining element  19 . Thus, the blocking device  68  blocks opening of the housing or detaching of the housing part  18  in the tensioned state of the nebulizer  1  preferably via or by means of the indicator/control member  50 , in particular by selectively blocking indexing of a member  50 . 
     Preferably, the housing of the nebulizer  1  is blocked against opening in a form-fit manner when the nebulizer  1  is in its tensioned state. 
     Preferably, the blocking device  68  comprises a blocking element  68   a  as shown in different perspective views in  FIGS.  18  and  19   . 
     The blocking device  68  or blocking element  68   a  comprises preferably a blocking part  68   b  for engaging or cooperating with the member  50  (see  FIG.  17   ) and/or for blocking the member  50  against rotational indexing, when the nebulizer  1  or its energy store (drive string  7 ) is in the tensioned state. 
     The blocking part  68   b  protrudes or extends preferably radially. 
     The blocking element  68   a  or blocking part  68   b  is preferably moveable axially and/or selectively in engagement with member  50 , in particular with a member recess  72 , and out of engagement. 
     Preferably, the blocking element  68   a  or blocking part  68   b  has different (axial) positions depending on the state of the nebulizer  1 , namely tensioned or un-tensioned, and/or is moveable between different positions in response to the movement of the container  3  or holder  6  or drive spring  7  at its end at the holder  6 . 
     Thus, by the cooperation of blocking part  68   b  with the member  50 , the blocking device  68  preferably always blocks the member  50  against rotational indexing, when the nebulizer  1  or its energy store (drive string  7 ) is in the tensioned state. 
       FIGS.  16  and  17    show the nebulizer  1  in the tensioned state. The blocking device  68  blocks opening of the nebulizer  1 . In particular, the blocking device  68  or its blocking element  68   a  blocks indexing of the member  50 . The blocking element  68   a  or blocking part  68   b  engages preferably into member  50  or a member recess  72  such that member  50  cannot index one step further even if the predetermined number of uses of the nebulizer  1  with the current container  3  has been reached or exceeded, i.e. even if when the rider  44  or actuation part  47  has reached the upper axial position and actuated the respective stop element  61  or contact element  61   a  so that the member  50  should be free to index into the first or second locked state. However, the member  50  is blocked against indexing by the blocking device  68  or blocking part  68   b  until the nebulizer  1  is non-tensioned, i.e. the energy store or drive spring  7  is relaxed, and fluid  2  is dispensed for the last time from the current container  3 . 
     Preferably, the blocking device  68  or its blocking part  68   b  prevent any indexing of the member  50  in the tensioned state of the nebulizer  1  independent on the position of the counter device  23  or its rider  44 , i.e. each time the nebulizer  1  is tensioned. 
     The blocking element  68   a  is preferably received or guided in an inner recess of the inner part  17 , in particular upper part  17   a  of inner part  17 . The inner part  17  or upper part  17   a  comprises preferably at least one guiding element  71 , in particular two guiding ribs or elements  71 , in particular on opposite sides, for holding the blocking element  68   a , in particular such that it can move axially relative to the inner part  17  and/or the member  50 . Preferably, the blocking element  68   a  is snapped in a gliding rail or the like, here formed preferably by the guiding elements  71 . 
     In the present embodiment, the blocking device  68  or blocking element  68   a  or blocking part  68   b  is moved or driven preferably by the movement of the container  3 , the drive spring  7  or the holder  6 . In particular, the blocking device  68  or blocking element  68   a  engages with an engagement part  68   g  into a holder recess  69  formed in the holder  6 . In particular, the engagement or coupling of the blocking device  68  or blocking element  68   a  with the holder  6  or any other component driving or moving the blocking device  68  or blocking element  68   a  can be realized as a rigid connection or alternatively as a flexible or articulated engagement and/or as any other suitable drive connection e.g. with play, relative movability between the interconnected parts, an intermediate transmission element or the like. 
     In the tensioned state of the nebulizer the container  3 , holder  6  and holder side of the drive spring  7  are in a different axial position than in the untensioned state. Thus, different positions of the blocking device  68  engaged to or triggered by at least one these components also correspond to the tensioned and untensioned state of the nebulizer  1 , respectively. 
     In the present embodiment, the blocking device  68  or blocking element  68   a  comprises in addition to the blocking part  68   b  preferably a base  68   c  and/or guiding part  68   d.    
     The base  68   c  holds preferably the blocking part  68   b  which protrudes preferably radially outwardly from the blocking element  68   a  or base  68   c.    
     The guiding part  68   d  is provided preferably with noses  68   e , in particular at opposite sides and respectively offset, such that the blocking element  68   a  or guiding part  68   d  is moveably guided and held by means of the guiding elements  71  of the inner part  17  engaging in between the noses  68   e . However, other constructional solutions are possible as well. 
     The blocking device  68  or blocking element  68   a  comprises preferably an arm  68   f  for holding the engagement part  68   g . In the present embodiment, the arm  68   f  extends essentially in axial direction and is inclined from the inner part  17  to the holder  6  within the inner part  17  so that the engagement part  68   g  can preferably completely sit in or engage into the holder recess  69  of the holder  6 . 
     Generally it is possible to connect the engagement part  68   g  and, thus, the blocking element  68   a , rigidly with one of the components, in particular the holder  6 , for following the axial movement, in particular over the entire axial stroke. However, it is also possible to reduce the stroke of the engagement part  68   g  and, thus, of the blocking element  68   a  in comparison to the stroke of the container  3 , holder  6  and the like, wherein different end stops limiting the stroke of the blocking element  68   a  can be provided, as it is preferred in the present embodiment. 
     In particular, the engagement part  68   g  has play (i.e. can move relative to the holder  6 ) in the holder recess  69  in the axial direction of movement. Alternatively or additionally, the holder recess  69  may be open towards the drive spring  7  so that the end of the drive spring  7  forms one (axial) end stop for the engagement part  63   g  and, thus, for the blocking element  68   a . The other or upper end stop  69   a  is preferably formed by the other end of the holder recess  69 , as shown in  FIG.  16   . However, the holder recess  69  could form both end stops if desired. 
     The position of the end stops define the end of the movement of the engagement part  68   g  relative to the axial stroke or movement of the container  3  and holder  6  and, thus, defines the coupling. 
     In the present embodiment, the holder recess  69  is preferably open towards the drive spring  7 , but forms the upper end stop  69   a  as indicated in  FIG.  16   . The lower end stop is preferably formed by the drive spring  7 , more precisely by its upper end, but could be formed by any suitable component. 
     The engagement part  68   g  follows—at least partly, in particular depending on the position of the end stops—the axial movement of the holder  6  and/or drive spring  7  and, thus, the back and forth movement of the container  3 . This drive movement of the engagement part  68   g  preferably transmitted by arm  68   f  controls, moves or drives the blocking device  68  or blocking element  68   a , in particular the blocking part  68   b.    
     The orientation or position, such as upwards, downwards, upper, lower or the like mentioned above or used in the following, refers to the usual orientation of the nebulizer  1  or container  3  where the nebulizer  1  is at least essentially vertical and/or the outlet, nozzle  12  or mouthpiece  13  points upwards and/or the housing part  18  is at the bottom of the nebulizer  1  and/or the axial direction of the container  3  or its movement is vertical and/or the fluid outlet  24  or head of the container  3  is directed vertically upwards. 
     The counter device  23  is preferably driven by the movement, in particular rotation, of the housing part  18  or inner part  17  relative to the housing or upper part  16  for tensioning the nebulizer  1 , energy store or drive spring  7 . Thus, the counter device  23  or its rider  44  or actuation part  47  will reach its final axial end position (upper position) when the nebulizer  1  is tensioned for the last time. In this end position, the counter device  23  or its rider  44  or actuation part  47  unlocks the member  50  in particular by flexing stop element  61  or contact element  61   a  out of locking engagement with member  50  or the respective stop portion  54 . However, the blocking device  68  or blocking part  68   b  still prevents the member  50  from indexing one step further into the first or second locked state until the nebulizer  1  has been actuated for the last time with the present container  3  to relax the energy store or drive spring  7 . 
     The actuation of the nebulizer  1 , i.e. release of drive spring  7 , results namely in that the holder  6  and container  3  move axially towards the mouthpiece  13 , i.e. upwards, and, simultaneously the blocking device  68  or its blocking part  68   b  is moved out of engagement with member recess  72  or member  50  so that member  50  is free to index one step into the first or second locked state. 
     In the present embodiment, the upper end of the drive spring  7  forms the lower end stop which abuts at the lower end of the engagement part  68   g  of the blocking element  68   a  and finally moves the blocking part  68   b  out of engagement with member recess  72  or member  50  when the holder  6  and container  3  move upwards. 
     It has to be noted that during each downward movement of the holder  6  or during each tensioning of the nebulizer  1  or drive spring  7 , the holder  6  or more precisely, the upper end stop  69   a , moves or pushes the engagement part  68   g  and, thus, the blocking element  68   a  downwards and/or into engagement with member  50 , in particular such that blocking part  68   b  moves axially into member  50  or its member recess  72 . 
     In the first locked state, the member  50  unlocks the retaining element  19  so that the nebulizer  1  or its housing can be opened, in particular the housing part  18  can be detached, for replacing the container  3 , in particular together with the housing part  18  and counter device  23 . 
     It has to be noted that the member  50  comprises preferably multiple engagement possibilities, in particular member recesses  72 , so that the blocking device  68  or blocking part  68   b  can engage into the respective member recess  72  depending on the actual rotational position of the member  50  in response to the actual number of containers  3  already used. 
       FIG.  20    shows in a schematic section an upper part of the nebulizer  1 . The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably an indicator device  73  for indicating the state, in particular a tensioned state, of the nebulizer  1 . In particular, the indicator device  73  indicates a tensioned state of the nebulizer  1  and a non-tensioned state of the nebulizer  1 . 
       FIG.  20    shows the nebulizer  1  in the non-tensioned state. The stop element  8  is depressed or moved to the left side in the present representation. 
       FIG.  21    shows a similar schematic section of nebulizer  1  as  FIG.  20   , wherein the nebulizer  1  is in the tensioned state. Here, the stop element  8  is in its blocking position where it is moved to the right side in the present representation and where it blocks upward movement of the holder  6  and, thus, of the container  3 . 
     In the present embodiment, the indicator device  73  comprises preferably an indicator element  74 . The indicator element  74  is preferably driven or moveable, in particular pivotable, by the stop element  8 . 
     In the present embodiment, the indicator device  73  or indicator element  74  comprises preferably at least one indicator portion  75  with preferably different colors, symbols or the like for indicating the (pivotable) position of the indicator element  74  and/or of the stop element  8  and, thus, the state of the nebulizer  1  (tensioned or non-tensioned). 
     The nebulizer  1  or its upper part  16  comprises preferably a window  78  for viewing at least part of the indicator element  74  or indicator portion  75  to indicate the state. 
     In the present embodiment, the indicator element  74  comprises preferably an engagement portion  76 , e.g. a protrusion, bolt or the like. The stop element  8  comprises preferably a drive portion  77 , which is preferably fork-like and/or engages the engagement portion  76  for driving or moving, in particular pivoting, the indicator element  74  depending on the (radial) position of the stop element  8 . However, other constructional solutions for coupling or linking the stop element  8  with the indicator device  73  are possible. 
       FIG.  22    shows the nebulizer  1  in a schematic sectional view without inner components, in particular without container  3 , drive spring  7 , holder  6 , pressure generator  5  and nozzle  12 . In  FIG.  22   , the housing part  18  is detached.  FIG.  23    shows the nebulizer  1  in a similar schematic section as  FIG.  22   , wherein the housing part  18  is partly attached to the nebulizer  1  or inner part  17 .  FIG.  24    shows the nebulizer  1  in a similar schematic section as  FIG.  22   , wherein the housing part  18  is completely attached to the nebulizer  1  or inner part  17 .  FIG.  25    shows a partial enlargement of the encircled area of  FIG.  24   . 
     The nebulizer  1  comprises preferably a manually depressable actuator member  79 , in particular in the form of a button or the like, at the housing part  18 . Preferably, the actuator member  79  is received or held in a housing recess  81  formed at or by the housing part  18 . 
     In the present embodiment, the actuator member  79  is preferably connected with or held by an actuator portion  80  or formed as a unitary piece with the actuator portion  80 . Preferably, the actuator portion  80  is for securing the actuator member  79  at the housing part  18  and/or biasing the actuator member  79  into its non-depressed position shown in  FIGS.  22  to  25   . 
     Preferably, the retaining element  19  is connected with and not detachable from the nebulizer  1  or its inner part  17 , i.e. is separated from the housing part  18  when detaching the housing part  18 , as it is the case e.g. in the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  7  and  9   . However, in the preferred modification, the actuator member  79  is a separate part and is not formed by or connected with the retaining element  19 , but separated therefrom when detaching the housing part  18  from the nebulizer  1  or inner part  17 . This facilitates handling because the user (not shown) can leave a finger on the actuator member  79  when pulling the housing part  18  from the inner part  17  for opening the housing. 
     The housing part  18  comprises preferably a holding portion  82 , in particular a shoulder or nose formed at the side of the housing recess  81  and/or adjacent to the actuator member  79 , for interacting or cooperating with at the retaining element  19  or a retaining shoulder  83  of the retaining element  19 . 
       FIG.  23    shows a partly attached or detached position of the housing part  18 . Here, the holding portion  82  can engage into a retaining recess  84  formed at the retaining element  19  for holding the holding part  18  in this position. 
     Preferably, the retaining recess  84  and/or holding portion  82  comprises respectively inclined surfaces so that it is possible only to push the housing part  18  completely on the inner part  17 , i.e. to completely close the housing, without actuating or depressing the actuator member  79  so that the nebulizer  1  can be completely closed as shown in  FIGS.  24  and  25   . 
     In the completely closed state, the holding portion  82  extends preferably over the retaining shoulder  83  so that the housing part  18  is secured in form-fit manner at the nebulizer  1  or inner part  17  or retaining element  19 . 
     When depressing the actuator member  79 , the retaining element  19  can flex inwardly (if not blocked by a blocking portion  55  of the member  50  as shown e.g. in  FIG.  9   ) to move the retaining shoulder  83  inwards so that the housing part  18  can pass with its retaining shoulder  83  when detaching the housing part  18  in axial direction from the nebulizer  1 . 
     The retaining element  19  comprises preferably a retaining portion  85  which extends towards the member  50  and can be selectively blocked against depression by the blocking portion  55  depending on the rotational position of the member  50 . In  FIGS.  22  to  25   , the schematically shown blocking portion  55  adjacent to the retaining element  19  or retaining portion  85  is preferably circumferentially offset due to the rotational position of the member  50 , so that the retaining portion  85  can move axially inwardly when the actuator member  79  is depressed and/or when attaching the housing part  18  to the nebulizer  1  and the passing of holding portion  82  results in an inward movement of the retaining element  19 . 
     It has to noted that the blocking of opening of the nebulizer  1 , i.e. the blocking of detaching the housing part  18  from the nebulizer  1  or inner part  17 , functions in the previous embodiment preferably in a similar manner, namely by blocking the retaining element  19  against depression by means of one of the blocking portions  55  depending on the rotational position of the member  50  (compare  FIG.  9    for example). 
     As already mentioned, individual features, aspects and/or principles of the embodiments described may also be combined with one another as desired and may be used particularly in the nebulizer according to  FIGS.  1  and  5    but also in similar or different nebulizers. 
     Unlike freestanding equipment or the like the proposed nebulizer  1  is preferably designed to be portable and in particular is a mobile hand operated device. 
     The proposed solution may, however, be used not only in the nebulizers  1  specifically described here but also in other nebulizers or inhalers, e.g. powder inhalers or so-called metered dose inhalers. 
     Preferably, the fluid  2  is a liquid, as already mentioned, especially an aqueous pharmaceutical formulation or an ethanolic pharmaceutical formulation. However, it may also be some other pharmaceutical formulation, a suspension or the like. 
     According to an alternative embodiment the fluid  2  may also comprise particles or powder. In this case, instead of the expulsion nozzle  12 , some other kind of supply device may be provided, especially an expulsion opening (not shown) or a supply channel (not shown) for supplying the fluid to or powder or the like into the mouthpiece  13 . The optional air supply opening  15  then serves to supply ambient air preferably in parallel so as to general or allow an airflow with a sufficient volume for breathing in or inhaling through the mouthpiece  13 . 
     If necessary the fluid  2  may also be atomized by means of a propellant gas. 
     Preferred ingredients and/or formulations of the preferably medicinal fluid  2  are listed in particular in WO 2009/115200 A1, preferably on pages 25 to 40, or in EP2 614 848 A1, paragraphs 0040 to 0087, which are incorporated herewith by reference. In particular, these may be aqueous or non-aqueous solutions, mixtures, formulations containing ethanol or free from any solvent, or the like. 
     LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS 
       1  nebulizer 
       2  fluid 
       3  container 
       4  bag 
       5  pressure generator 
       6  holder 
       7  drive spring 
       8  stop element 
       9  conveying tube 
       10  non-return valve 
       11  pressure chamber 
       12  nozzle 
       13  mouthpiece 
       14  aerosol 
       15  air supply opening 
       16  upper housing part 
       17  inner part 
       17   a  upper part of the inner part 
       17   b  lower part of the inner part 
       17   c  protrusion 
       18  housing part (lower part) 
       19  retaining element 
       20  spring 
       21  container base 
       22  piercing element 
       23  counter device 
       24  fluid outlet 
       25  first closure 
       26  second closure 
       27  closure part 
       28  flange 
       29  transportation lock 
       30  securing member 
       31  venting hole 
       32  securing device 
       33  holding element 
       33   a  end portion 
       33   b  locking portion 
       33   c  protrusion 
       34  locking element 
       34   a  end portion 
       34   b  actuation portion 
       35  base 
       36  spring portion 
       37  fixing portion 
       38  edge 
       39  retaining part 
       40  securing part 
       41  guiding surface 
       42  threaded shaft 
       43  drive gear 
       44  rider 
       45  toothing 
       46  pointer 
       47  actuation part 
       48  device 
       49  window 
       50  indicator/control member 
       51  spring 
       52  number 
       53  symbol 
       54  stop portion 
       55  blocking portion 
       56  control portion 
       57  lock 
       58  locking member 
       59  tongue-like portion 
       60  corrugation 
       61  stop element 
       61   a  contact element 
       62  rib 
       63  coding portion 
       64  protrusion 
       65  recess 
       66  opening 
       67  bearing portion 
       68  blocking device 
       68   a  blocking element 
       68   b  blocking part 
       68   c  base 
       68   d  guiding part 
       68   e  nose 
       68   f  arm 
       68   g  engagement part 
       69  holder recess 
       69   a  end stop 
       70  inner recess 
       71  guiding element 
       72  member recess 
       73  indicator device 
       74  indicator element 
       75  indicator portion 
       76  engagement portion 
       77  drive portion 
       78  window 
       79  actuator member 
       80  actuator portion 
       81  housing recess 
       82  holding portion 
       83  retaining shoulder 
       84  retaining recess 
       85  retaining portion