Novartis Ag

Nektar Therapeutics

Inhale Therapeutic Systems, Inc.

Novartis Pharma Ag

Derrick J Parks

Michael J Rocchio

Adrian Edward Smith

Kyle A Naydo

Dennis E Wightman

Gordon Stout

Xuyen Pham

Scot Cheu

Patrick Reich

Normand Nantel

Jamshed Ghandhi

Dale W Ploeger

Steve Deming

Kevin Russert Walsh

Jamshed Ghandi

Diane Brannigan

Andrew J Boeckl

Kyle Naydo

The invention provides methods, systems and apparatus for the metered transport of fine powders into receptacles. According to one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus is provided which comprises a hopper having an opening. The hopper is adapted to receive a bed of fine powder. At least one chamber, which is moveable to allow the chamber to be placed in close proximity to the opening, is also provided. An element having a proximal end and a distal end is positioned within the hopper such that the distal end is near the opening. A vibrator motor is provided to vibrate the element when within the fine powder.

Powder filling apparatus and methods for their use

The invention provides systems and methods for measuring the mass of a substance. In one method, energy is applied to a substance and a response resulting from the application of energy as measured. The mass of the substance is then determined based at least in part on the measured response.

Systems and methods for non-destructive mass sensing

The invention provides methods, systems and apparatus for the metered transport of fine powders into receptacles. According to one exemplary method, the fine powder is first fluidized. At least a portion of the fluidized fine powder is then captured. The captured fine powder is then transferred to a receptacle, with the transferred powder being sufficiently uncompacted so that it may be dispersed upon removal from the receptacle.

Powder filling systems, apparatus and methods

An apparatus for filling a receptacle comprises a reservoir adapted to contain a supply of powder pharmaceutical formulation, a holder adapted to hold a receptacle in a position where it may receive powder from the reservoir, an extension extending above the receptacle, and a plunger moveable within the extension, whereby powder from the supply may fill the receptacle and at least a portion of the extension and the plunger may force the powder in the extension into the receptacle. In one version, the plunger may be a portion of the receptacle or may be adapted to install a portion of the receptacle. Alternatively, vibrational or other energy may be used to cause powder in the extension to be filled in the receptacle.

Apparatus and method for filling a receptacle with powder

Methods, systems and apparatus for the metered transport of fine powders into receptacles. According to one exemplary method, the fine powder is first fluidized. At least a portion of the fluidized fine powder is then captured. The captured fine powder is then transferred to a receptacle, with the transferred powder being sufficiently uncompacted so that it may be dispersed upon removal from the receptacle.

Power filling apparatus and methods for their use

Methods, systems and apparatus for the metered transport of fine powders into receptacles are provided. According to one exemplary method, the fine powder is first fluidized. At least a portion of the fluidized fine powder is then captured. The captured fine powder is then transferred to a receptacle, with the are provided transferred powder being sufficiently uncompacted so that it may be dispersed upon removal from the receptacle.

Growing community of inventors

Belmont, CA, United States of America

Derrick J Parks